El Rinconcito Authentic Mexican Food

191 San Felipe Rd ste g, Hollister, CA 95023, United States
+1 831-630-5737
$$$ Mexican restaurant , Breakfast restaurant
(305 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

El Rinconcito Authentic Mexican Food is a full-service Mexican restaurant tucked into a corner of a plaza along San Felipe Road in Hollister. Its location gives it a low-key vibe, a spot you might drive past without noticing, but one that locals gradually uncover for a satisfying, unpretentious meal.

Inside, the atmosphere leans toward casual and welcoming, with friendly staff who take time to offer menu suggestions and answer questions. This makes it a good choice whether you’re dialing in an order for a comfortable solo lunch or sitting down with family for a hearty dinner. While the space shows its no-frills approach, it doesn’t skimp on service or food quality.

The menu covers a broad swath of traditional Mexican dishes, offering everything from breakfast burritos and menudo to plater-size entrées like carne asada con camarones and chile verde. One notable detail is their emphasis on authentic touches — made-from-scratch agua de horchata and dishes like camarones a la diabla that actually bring some heat, which isn’t always guaranteed at every Mexican spot in the area.

Portion sizes are generous, making this a practical pick for diners seeking value alongside authentic flavors. Fans of combination plates with enchiladas, chiles rellenos, and birria tacos will find familiar favorites done with care. The presence of classics like chips and salsa, guacamole, and micheladas rounds out the experience, reinforcing the place’s appeal for those craving traditional Mexican comfort food.

Prices trend a little higher than typical fast-casual Mexican joints in Hollister, suggesting this is a place locals might lean on for special occasions or when they want a comparably elevated kitchen without venturing out of town.

Overall, El Rinconcito works well for anyone looking for a relaxed sit-down meal with classic Mexican dishes that don’t compromise on authentic flavor. It feels especially fitting for afternoon or early evening visits when the food hits just right after a day out or before heading home. The approachable atmosphere and attentive staff create a low-pressure environment where both newcomers and those familiar with Mexican cuisine can enjoy a solid meal without fuss.

Highlights
Has fast service
Has great beer selection
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
What they serve
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Serves wine
Best for
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

10:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Tuesday

Closed

Wednesday

10:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Thursday

10:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Friday

10:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Saturday

9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Sunday

9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

305 Reviews
Schon Garcia

01 Jan 2026

This is one of the hidden jams inside of Hollister for Mexican foodd. I’ve driving by, here but never found it because it’s tucked in the corner of a plaza. They have combination plates, one item two, item 3 item for very affordable prices. I got two cheese enchiladas and a chili telleno and it was perfect.

Joselyn Murguia

27 Dec 2025

Loved the food. They have authentication agua de horchata, which they make from scratch (not the store bought powders). I had the camarones a la diabla, and they were actually spicy and cooked perfectly. In my opinion, these are hands down the best camarones a la diabla that I’ve had at any Mexican restaurant. I’ve had camarones a la diabla at many other “authentic” Mexican restaurants, and they are always sweet or the sauce tastes like it came straight out of a can. However, these were very tasty and had the right amount of spiciness . Definitely recommend this restaurant!

Grace Camposeco

19 Dec 2025

First time trying this little gem. It was delish! Food is fresh trastes great and the cantarito was on point. Clean and service was great.

Breyette Shantz

14 Nov 2025

Food was outstanding! Delicious, flavorful, and authentic. Good portions, nice atmosphere, and service was amazing. The only thing I have to complain about is the price. They are on the high end for prices. Overall I would come again on special occasions.

MARIA MENDOZA DEL CARMEN

01 Nov 2025

From the moment I walked in, I could sense a vibrant atmosphere and an inviting ambiance. The staff was friendly and attentive, they provided recommendations and answered certain questions I had about the menu. With flavorful dishes and excellent service, it quickly became a favorite of mine I look forward to returning.

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