BarReading

El Primo Bar &Grill

3.9(104)
Unclaimed

El Primo Bar & Grill in Reading is celebrated for its lively atmosphere, featuring a versatile DJ and unique fire-dancing performances. Enjoy authentic Mexican tacos and cold Coronas while dancing the night away with friends.

El Primo Bar &Grill Logo

Food at El Primo Bar &Grill

MexicanDine-inPub

Known for: Tacos, Sopa de camarones (shrimp soup), Cold Coronas

What people love about El Primo Bar &Grill

Versatile DJ Performances (e.g., DJ J)

Multiple guests single out the DJ’s varied playlists as central to enjoying their night out.

La bori is the best come in! Great music! #dj J!
The DJ playes all types of music. Nice place to have drinks and dance.

Fire Dancer Nights

The unique fire-dancing entertainment stands out as an exciting, memorable attraction.

Bent nights were very fun n had fire dancers!

About El Primo Bar &Grill

Nestled in the heart of Reading, PA, El Primo Bar & Grill is the ultimate destination for those seeking an unforgettable night out. This vibrant bar combines authentic Mexican flavors, lively entertainment, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere to create a one-of-a-kind experience. Whether you’re craving mouthwatering tacos and chilled Coronas or ready to dance the night away under the glow of fire dancers, El Primo delivers the perfect balance of food, fun, and festivity.

Live Music, DJs & Fire Dancer Nights

At El Primo Bar & Grill, music is more than background noise—it’s the heartbeat of the venue. Guests rave about versatile DJ performances, from reggaetón and cumbia to top-40 remixes and classic Mexican anthems. Regulars name DJ J and La Bori as crowd favorites, praising their ability to read the room and keep everyone dancing. “The DJ plays all types of music. Nice place to have drinks and dance,” one reviewer noted, while another declared, “Great music! #dj J!”

On select nights, the excitement escalates with spectacular fire dancer shows. These visually stunning performances add an extra layer of thrill, making every visit feel like a special occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, date night, or simply marking the weekend, the combination of thumping beats and fire artistry ensures memories that last long after last call.

A Lively, Secure & Family-Friendly Ambiance

Step inside, and you’ll immediately feel the energy that diners describe as “one of the best nightlife spots in Reading.” El Primo Bar & Grill strikes a rare balance: it’s buzzing and upbeat yet still welcoming to families and small groups. Many guests highlight the secure, well-staffed environment—“Excelente ambiente, personal super serviciales, máxima seguridad”—as a major draw. Comfortable picnic-style tables and colorful décor create the ideal backdrop for socializing, mingling, or relaxing with loved ones.

Parents appreciate that kids are greeted with the same attention to detail as adults. With friendly staff on hand and an atmosphere of mutual respect, families can enjoy a festive evening without compromising on safety or comfort. From casual meet-ups to big celebrations, El Primo’s ambiance caters to every occasion.

Authentic Mexican Food & Refreshing Drinks

No visit to El Primo Bar & Grill is complete without sampling its signature tacos paired with an ice-cold Corona. Diners frequently mention the unbeatable combo: “Me encanta ir a bailar, comer tacos y beber una Corona bien fría.” Each taco is crafted using traditional recipes and fresh ingredients, delivering bold, authentic flavors in every bite. Whether you choose carne asada, al pastor, or grilled veggies, these handheld delights are perfect for fueling up before—or during—a night of dancing.

On the beverage side, the bar offers an array of Mexican beers, tequilas, margaritas, and specialty cocktails. The bartenders know how to pour the perfect Corona with just the right foam head, winning praise for speed and consistency. Cheers to that!

Hospitality That Feels Like Home

El Primo’s staff are often celebrated for creating a genuine, home-like welcome. Guests comment, “They are so good at making you feel at home,” and applaud bartenders for memorable interactions that turn first-time visitors into regulars. Behind the bar, the team hustles to maintain a friendly, attentive service—even on the busiest Friday and Saturday nights when the place is “popping.”

Some reviews note that service can vary during peak hours, with occasional slowdowns or miscommunications. Management takes this feedback to heart and continues to refine scheduling and training to strike the right balance between energy and efficiency. The result? An ever-improving hospitality experience that puts customer satisfaction front and center.

Cleanliness & Comfort: Ongoing Enhancements

Maintaining a clean, hygienic space is a top priority at El Primo Bar & Grill. Many patrons describe the venue as “muy limpio higiénico,” but the team acknowledges reports of occasional maintenance hiccups—like a guest spotting a fly in their ice or encountering a restroom out of order. These constructive comments motivate swift action, from increased restroom inspections to enhanced paper-supply checks.

Although the bar’s popularity can lead to crowding at prime times, patrons are encouraged to arrive early or reserve a table when possible. El Primo remains committed to expanding seating options and optimizing floor flow to ensure everyone can enjoy the night comfortably.

Plan Your Visit

Ready to experience Reading’s top nightlife hotspot? Here are a few tips to make the most of your evening at El Primo Bar & Grill:

  • Arrive Early: Doors open in the evening—beat the rush to secure seating before the dance floor fills up.
  • Check the Calendar: Look for live DJ nights, fire dancer performances, and special events.
  • Make It a Feast: Pair your favorite tacos with a Corona or creative house cocktail for the ultimate Mexican bar experience.
  • Stay Connected: Follow El Primo on social media for updates on entertainment, happy-hour specials, and more.

Whether you’re a local looking for a regular haunt or a visitor seeking genuine Mexican flair and nonstop entertainment, El Primo Bar & Grill in Reading, PA, is ready to welcome you. Come for the tacos, stay for the dance moves—and leave with unforgettable memories.

Unique Details About El Primo Bar &Grill

Crowd

  • Groups
  • Tourists

Payments

  • Debit cards
  • Credit cards
  • NFC mobile payments

Amenities

  • Restroom

Offerings

  • Beer
  • Food
  • Wine
  • Alcohol
  • Dancing
  • Cocktails
  • Food at bar
  • Hard liquor

Atmosphere

  • Cozy
  • Casual
  • Trendy

Highlights

  • Sports
  • Bar games
  • Live music
  • Fast service
  • Great cocktails
  • Live performances
  • Great beer selection

Service options

  • Dine-in

Contact El Primo Bar &Grill

200 N 9th St
Reading, PA 19601
United States of America

County: Berks County

Claim This Business

Customer Reviews

3.9 out of 5 stars

Based on 104 reviews

Review data

5 star reviews

49%

4 star reviews

18%

3 star reviews

17%

2 star reviews

7%

1 star reviews

9%

Working Hours / Hours of Operation

Monday:
9AM-5PM
Tuesday:
11AM-2AM
Wednesday:
11AM-2AM
Thursday:
11AM-2AM
Friday:
11AM-2AM
Saturday:
11AM-2AM
Sunday:
11AM-2AM

Similar Mexican Restaurants Near Reading, PA

Archie’s Taqueria

Mexican restaurant

Archie’s Taqueria

5.0(72)West Reading

Archie's Taqueria in West Reading serves authentic Mexican cuisine with a focus on fresh, flavorful dishes. Known for exceptional birria tacos, birria pizza, and a welcoming, cozy atmosphere.

El Guanaco Food Truck

Salvadoran restaurant

El Guanaco Food Truck

4.8(100)Reading

El Guanaco Food Truck in Reading serves authentic Salvadoran cuisine, known for exceptional birria tacos and pupusas that locals call the best in the area. This family-operated spot offers generous portions at fair…

Comālli Taqueria

Taco restaurant

Comālli Taqueria

4.7(549)West Reading

Comālli Taqueria in West Reading offers a dynamic menu featuring flavorful tacos, oversized burritos, and refreshing in-house aguas frescas, all served in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Known for its unique El Brole taco…

Norte Sur Mexican Restaurant

Mexican restaurant

Norte Sur Mexican Restaurant

4.6(406)Reading

Norte Sur Mexican Restaurant in Reading offers authentic Mexican cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere. Known for its diverse menu and satisfying dishes.

El Roble Salvadoran Restaurant

Salvadoran restaurant

El Roble Salvadoran Restaurant

4.6(293)Reading

El Roble Salvadoran Restaurant in Reading, PA offers authentic Salvadoran dishes, like renowned pupusas and flavorful birria tacos, with a friendly, bilingual staff enhancing the dining experience. Weekend visitors…

Tacos Guac N Bowl

Mexican restaurant

Tacos Guac N Bowl

4.6(238)Reading

Tacos Guac N Bowl in Reading serves fresh, homemade Mexican food praised for its authenticity by customers familiar with border-region cuisine. Known for addictive quesabirria tacos, exceptional guacamole, and reliable…

Romano's Italian & Mexican Food

Pizza restaurant

Romano's Italian & Mexican Food

4.6(39)Reading

Romano's Italian & Mexican Food is a family-run Reading restaurant serving Chicago-style deep dish pizza, pasta and sandwiches alongside tacos, huaraches and birria quesadillas. Diners praise the authentic flavors,…

Plaza Azteca Mexican Restaurant · Wyomissing

Mexican restaurant

Plaza Azteca Mexican Restaurant · Wyomissing

4.5(3,329)Wyomissing

Plaza Azteca in Wyomissing is a full-service Mexican and Tex-Mex restaurant and bar serving fajitas, enchiladas, burritos, seafood and skillet entrees. Diners note bold flavors, generous portions, quick service, a…