This was a surprising find on the way home to Chicago from Ames. Very off the beaten path, but so worth a stop. Tons of delicious and authentic food. The margaritas looked amazing. Service was quick and kind.

The food is excellent and the tortillas are hand made. It's our favorite Mexican restaurant in Cedar Rapids.

Amazing food here! Great atmosphere! Stop here every Taco Tuesday Service is always wonderful & friendly !

The staff were impeccable even while short staffed. The music and the decor were lively, making this restaurant my favorite place in Cedar Rapids. Today I got the Birria Bowl which was a soup of seasoned beef and goat. I guess my first ever Birria was mild because this was muy caliente! Way too spicy for me but the meat was so tender that I ate two tacos worth before I had to call it quits. All in all El Bajio is the best joint in town

Nice clean restaurant with friendly staff. Food was yummy & quick. Husband couldn't eat it all - which never happens.

Outside it looks like a random hole in the wall, inside was nice, metal garage type atmosphere. The service was quick, efficient. Ordered the Bajio quesadilla, and 2 burritos carne asada smothered in cheese. Both of the meals were tasty, flavorful, and huge portions that came with rice and beans and side of guacamole, sour cream, in a little deep fried shell. The salsa was less than average, and the floors were almost slick, why I don't know. We came with a bigger group but all paid individually but they tacked on the gratuity but also left an additional space for more tip. It wasn't stated about the gratuity but we always do 20%'or more but just a heads up.

Service was a little slow considering there were only two people in the dining area and two people sitting at the bar. Food wasn't bad but tasted a bit burnt. Willing to try it again though.

We were driving through and thought we would give this place a try. It did not disappoint! The smoked margarita is amazing, it's not too sugary, and has a great flavor. My husband loved it so much I became the designated driver (I had soda water, it was actually pretty good). The salsa...we ordered some to go so I could eat it later on during our road trip. I ordered nachos with chicken. The chicken wasn't seasoned but there were so many other things going on it was forgivable. My husband had the choripollo, he's not a foodie but he is fond of this Mexican dish. He loved it! He said we will have to stop there on our way back, that's high praise from my husband!! This place is definitely worth stopping.

In looking a place for a solo dinner on a business trip to Cedar Rapids, I found El Bajio. I grabbed a seat at the bar and quickly had a menu and water. By listening to those around me, you can definitely tell that it has a following. After my time there, I can definitely see why. Service was outstanding! My iced tea stayed full and everyone behind the bar was very friendly. The menu offers plenty of options, both Tex-Mex and more traditional Mexican. I opted for chicken enchiladas and found them delicious. My food also arrived very quickly. While I didn't sit in the dining room, it was nicely decorated with a handful of booths and a good number of tables. There was plenty of space without it feeling crowded. Great local find!

This is probably the third time trying this restaurant. I had the same experience each time. Great food, service and what you would expect for a small Mexican restaurant. I keep going back for that reason. The food is outstanding. I usually get street tacos. That is one of my favorites. Bottom line if you like authentic Mexican food and good service. You need to try place.