El Tri Bar & Grill in Columbia — Mexican Food, Margaritas, and Live Music
What El Tri Bar & Grill offers
El Tri Bar & Grill is a Mexican restaurant and bar in Columbia's Five Points neighborhood, known for its margaritas, grilled meats, and weekend live music. The menu centers on traditional Mexican dishes — carne asada, chile rellenos, enchiladas — alongside American bar fare. The bar stocks tequila and mezcal, and the kitchen makes margaritas to order. Weekend nights often feature live bands, making it as much a music venue as a dining spot.
The space itself is casual and lively, with a full bar, dining area, and outdoor patio. The atmosphere draws a mix of neighborhood regulars, families on weekends, and groups looking for a night out with food and drinks. Service tends to be friendly but can slow during peak hours when the bar is packed.
Key Takeaways
- El Tri serves traditional Mexican grilled specialties and standard bar food in a casual Five Points location.
- The bar makes fresh margaritas and stocks tequila and mezcal selections for cocktails and shots.
- Live music happens most weekends, typically starting in the evening — call ahead to confirm the schedule.
- The outdoor patio is a draw in warm weather, and the space fills quickly on Friday and Saturday nights.
The menu and what to order
Carne asada — grilled strips of beef — is a signature item and appears on its own, in tacos, and in combination plates. The kitchen also grills chicken and shrimp to order. Chile rellenos (poblano peppers stuffed with cheese and topped with sauce) and enchiladas come in red or green sauce, with your choice of protein. Sides include rice, beans, and tortillas made fresh.
The bar menu includes nachos, quesadillas, wings, and burgers alongside the Mexican plates. Portions are generous. Prices fall in the mid-range for the area — entrees typically run between $12 and $18. The kitchen can handle dietary requests like no cheese or extra vegetables, though it is worth asking when you order.
Margaritas and the bar program
El Tri makes margaritas fresh to order, not from a mix. You can order them on the rocks or frozen, and the bartender will adjust sweetness and tequila strength to your preference. The bar stocks multiple tequilas and mezcals, so you can also order straight pours or mezcal cocktails if you prefer something beyond a margarita.
Happy hour pricing varies by day — check their social media or call ahead for current specials. Beer selection includes Mexican imports like Corona and Modelo alongside domestic options. The bar also serves wine and non-alcoholic drinks.
Live music and weekend crowds
Live bands typically play Friday and Saturday nights, usually starting around 9 or 10 p.m., though timing shifts seasonally. The music ranges from Latin rock to regional Mexican bands. The volume and energy level rise significantly once the band starts, so if you want conversation, arrive early or sit on the patio.
Weekends draw crowds, especially after 8 p.m. If you want a table without a long wait, come before 7 p.m. or call ahead to ask about reservations. The bar itself fills quickly, but you can usually find a spot if you are willing to stand. Parking is street parking along Five Points — arrive early or use a nearby lot if the street is full.
Location and hours
El Tri is located in the Five Points neighborhood on Harden Street, a walkable area with other restaurants, shops, and bars nearby. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner most days, with extended hours on weekends. Hours shift seasonally and occasionally for special events, so check their phone number or social media before heading over, especially if you are planning a specific time.
The space is accessible by car and by foot if you are staying nearby. Five Points has limited but available parking on the street and in nearby lots.
What to expect on different nights
Weekday lunches and early dinners are quieter, with a mix of office workers and neighborhood regulars. The pace is relaxed, and you can have a conversation without shouting. Friday and Saturday nights are the main event — the bar fills, the music is loud, and the energy is high. Sunday afternoons are moderate, with families and groups gathering for late lunch or early dinner before the week starts.
If you are going for the food and a calm meal, aim for a weekday or early evening. If you want the full experience — music, crowds, margaritas, and nightlife — come Friday or Saturday after 9 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation?
Reservations are not required but are recommended on Friday and Saturday nights, especially if you have a large group. Call ahead to check availability. Walk-ins are welcome, but you may wait 20 to 45 minutes during peak hours.
What time does the live music start?
Live music typically begins around 9 or 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, though the exact time varies. Call the restaurant or check their social media to confirm the schedule for the night you plan to visit.
Is there a cover charge for live music?
Some nights have a small cover charge when a band is playing, though it varies. Call ahead to ask about the cover for the specific date you are interested in.
Can I bring a group or celebrate a birthday?
Yes. Let them know when you call for a reservation, and they can often arrange seating for larger groups. The bar atmosphere works well for celebrations, though the noise level during live music makes conversation difficult.
What if I do not drink alcohol?
The restaurant serves soft drinks, coffee, and water. You can order food and enjoy the atmosphere without alcohol. The patio is a good spot if you want to avoid the bar scene.