Elvira’s Mexican Food
1520 W Apache Trl, Apache Junction, AZ, 85220
Elvira’s Mexican Food Menu
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Address :
1520 W Apache Trl
Apache Junction, AZ, 85220 - Phone (480) 982-9916
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Opening Hours
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Specialities
- Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : Yes
Categories
Mexican Cuisine
If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.
Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.
Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.
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Ann C.
This one is a pass. The food is sub par and the service is terrible. My husband was served a completely different dish then he ordered and received no more than a slight shrug.
(2)Julianne H.
I called the day before my family came here and told them there was going to be 8 of us. Needless to say when we got there they did not write my name in the books but got us a table together right away. They were also just opening when we got there. The service from our waitress was horribile, there was a point where my sister had to go up and grab us all silverware. Our food was brought out 1 by 1 about 5 min apart. I ordered a green chili burrito and got a red..but it was still good. The salsa in a bottle is amazing.....also they weren't even busy when we were there so not quite sure why the service was horribile. I will give them 3 stars for the food.
(3)J M.
Wow, owner just messaged me, cursing and telling me best to never leave my hometown state. Classy. Now who wants to do business with ppl like this?
(1)E D.
I've been here twice always hoping it will be better than I remember and I was disappointed again! I will say the decor is absolutely beautiful but the food is garbage. This is more of a Tex Mex place then I would consider authentic Mexican. I had the Chimichanga and it seems that anything you order comes prepared basically the same way with the same flavours (kind of flavourless.) Majority of the staff are teenagers who don't really care about service. Sadly I won't return again as I've been disappointed too many times, I want AUTHENTIC Mexican.
(2)L L.
We have gone here several times over the years and have really seen this place transform. The atmosphere here has really improved and the service is always exceptional. I have liked everything I have tried on the menu with the exception of their red and green chili burrito's and the bean dip appetizer. My family's favorite are their enchiladas. They are fantastic!! We also love the tacos. The beans and rice are great too. The green chili cheese crisp is a great appetizer if you are looking for one. Overall, we love this place!.
(4)Annie B.
We are regulars and enjoy the food; however, the service has started to get worse and worse. Sat for a good 10 min. before we were approached with chips and salsa. Another 10 min. for drink orders. Drinks came, no straws. Asked the little girl, who acted like Wednesday from the Adams Family for straws and she ducked her head, hair in face and went back to the register, playing on her phone. Sat for another 10 min. to order our food. Our tea glasses became dry, no one came by to refill. Dinner came! The best part of the whole experience,as usual, was the excellent food. Please don't let this great establishment go to the dogs. The food is excellent. The service needs to improve. We are currently searching for a new favorite Mexican food restaurant.
(2)Linda P.
Our family has eaten at Elvira's for over ten years. I ordered Menudo this past week, which contained tripe that was literally not eatable. It was slimy and fatty tripe that was not cooked properly. I was not able to chew, much swallow it without almost choking. I tried eating three pieces of the tripe in my serving of menudo. When I called this to the attention of our waitress, she asked I assume was the manager over to our booth. This rude, arrogant female named "Alex" insisted that there was nothing wrong with the tripe, that it was obviously "my preference" that was the problem. I told her I would not pay for a bowl of menudo that I could not eat, she insisted that there was nothing wrong with it. I told her we would no longer frequent Elvira's because of her attitude and dismissal of my complaint. Alex's reply was "That's Fine". She proceeded to tell my son that the best she could do was discount the $8.50 bowl of menudo by 10%. My son paid and I left Elvira's without eating, disgusted with Alex's attitude, rudeness and indifference to my complaint. I hope the owners of Elvira's view this comment..
(1)Stephen K.
The food was excellent. The restaurant was very busy on Saturday afternoon. We enjoyed the service, atmosphere, and the food.
(4)Lisa B.
Again, another review, another update. This place is not ever consistent, ever. We've gone back quite a few times since the last time I posted. I'm not a reviewer but something about this place caught my eye for the first time, second, third..... So I had to whether experience be good or bad. I still wish I knew this fabulous servers name, the only time we have ever had an enjoyable time (twice) and even another when we we sitting in bar, forgot about by our server this lady, my only favorite came by to say hi & quickly grabbed boxes, cleared empty plates and said let me get you some refills. Short brown hair, glasses and a huge smile. The name Elaine sounds familiar but I honestly just can't remember. But owners needs to put this lady in charge. Very attentive, knows what she's doing and puts smiles on everyone's face. Seriously. It's sad, this place has so much good quality, the food is fabulous you guys can do better but they need someone in charge. Not the young girls up front that are solving all the issues, taking-wrapping to go's (for 20 minutes & still come out wrong) , answering phones, seating.... Etc. Not these girls, it's a shame to not see this place poppin like it should be. Straighten up the service. I'm not sure after Sunday nights to go experience, we'll even waste our time coming back Here unless I see that lady (maybe Elaine) & know she'll be waiting on us.
(1)Christine G.
Waited close to an hour for food. Recieved greasy, half warm food. Crappy service. Bus boy was better than the wait staff. Never again.
(2)Jami W.
We have been going for over 10 years and since the new "owner" took over they suck! Yup, that is the word I am using SUCKS! I even called them 4x's to inquirer them catering our rehearsal dinner and never once did anyone call me back!! This is our Sunday routine no longer!! We will be going to jack n the box for now on! That is how bad this place is!! Service is pitiful, I have never seen any form of management in there. DONE !! I do not recommend wasting your time with this place!
(1)Chris E.
One evening I ate at one of Phoenix's most noted Mexican establishments. The next day I had lunch at Elvira's. It must have been a bad evening for the chef because I liked the food at Elvira's much more. Enjoyed the chips and salsa, the spinach enchiladas were kitchen-hot and well assembled. The beans and rice were a good compliment. Dining on the patio was excellent on that balmy afternoon. I'd go again.
(4)Jason S.
Since Serrano ' s Mexican Restaurant chain ...quality and food plummeted downhill .. This has to be what Mexican food is supposed to taste like. HOMEMADE SALSA.....Fantastic.. A bit of a wait at times...but quality food takes time.
(5)Sandi M.
We have only had good experiences with the food. Yummy salsa and chips, delicious Bloody Marys! Generous portions and fast food preparation. This last trip though, the service was awful. Slow to get orders, slow on drinks, no refills, and it was not busy. No excuse. The food however was amazing and the great cooks knocked it out! Go for the food, 3 stars for the service.
(3)Donna B.
Fellow hikers and I stopped at Elvira's Mexican Food on a recent Saturday after a hike up Gold Canyon to see the petroglyphs. Mexican is one of my favorite food groups, so I won't say "no" to trying a new place! (And certainly not after just having torched 1,019 calories hiking before lunch...) We arrived right around lunch time and were quickly accommodated with tables and chairs pulled together for our group. The interior decor is very bright and colorful; we found ourselves looking around at all the different art. I ordered the green chile beef chimichanga with double rice (no beans). The green chile gave it a different taste than I'm used to, but it was really good. The added guacamole and sour cream made for a perfect combination. The chips and salsa were excellent too. The restrooms are one-holers, so if you have a group who, say, just came from hiking Gold Canyon and say, all have to go the bathroom, well...make sure you get in the door first. We had great service, and it wasn't too crowded on a Saturday for lunch. I recommend this place!
(4)Julie J.
Just left there noon on Sunday, maybe a dozen customers and still were not seated. 3 employees walked to the front and looked at us none acknowledging us. There was a customer at the counter trying to get a refund for his take out order that they still had not filled. One worker came over and told him the reason it was taking so long was because of the bacon. That's when we decided to leave. If they can't seat us or even cook bacon in a timely manner no way would we be eating in the next hour. We use to love this place, hated when it closed rejoiced when it reopened but are now done. Last few experiences were not stellar and now it's clear the level of customer service we enjoyed left with the old staff.
(1)Levi B.
Service was very poor. They brought us the bill for the very gross tasting food and forgot about us. I had to walk in and pay myself after waiting for more than 30 min. Needless to say I won't be returning.
(1)Laurian L.
Always on the hunt for a good Mexican restaurant. Elvira's is in our backyard so I figured I'd try it. Probably the better to go someplace else. Food was so so service was so so. the service wasn't much better. You know the server never picked up any empty plates off work table didn't refill the drinks. Pleasant enough atmosphere not worth the coins in my book. Would I come here again? Most likely not
(2)Kelly C.
This place, according to what I have heard, was supposed to be like Globe-Miami mexican food. So Megan and I make the trek out there, it's in AJ and we live in West Mesa, so it's quite the drive. We are so excited., as I grew up in Globe and hardly ever get up there anymore. And I LOVE the mexican food. Irene's, Chalos, Libby's El Rey, etc. It looks like a Globe place, and the people in there defintely have that small town Globe hick look about them too. The food......just ok. What was weird is that the taco meat was nice and warm, but the taco shell was cold. For god's sake, heat up your taco shells, Elvira! Megan got a combination bean and green chili burro enchilada style, and I got a combination red chili and bean burro enchilada style. Both had one taco. They were....ok. Service was great though. Not worth the trek though, won't go back.
(3)Steve L.
We first went this restaurant about 10 years ago and had not returned until today. It my be another 10 years before we go back. On the positive side the interior of the restaurant is very nice, the chips are ok, and the waitress we has was ok. On the minus side the salsa was hot with no alternative, the tacos were bland, and the enchiladas were very spicy. Three shredded tacos were $9.50 with no rice or beans. La Casita, Los gringos , and Filibertos are all better choices in The Apache Junction area
(2)Catherine C.
Although they have been around for decades, I did not learn about them until about 6 or so years ago. Wonderful Mother/Daughter traditional and authentic (no sour cream) reliable food, in a small building with good parking. There are sometimes more take-out customers waiting for their "fix" than people at the restaurant. Note: to spicy-avoiders their salsa is a bit tangy for the non-heat lovers. Everything is prepared as you order, so be patient. I am also a huge fan of Tia Rosa's in Mesa with a totally different take on the Mexican menu, so it is not just the fact Elvira's is Mexican.
(5)Barbara F.
love this place ever since i was a kid and now my kids love it! love the salsa and chips no one else comes close.... i also like the fried bean burritos but beware the service is a bit slow. thats why i gave it 4 stars. not sure how the new owners are will be trying them soon!
(4)Sarah R.
I wanted to like this place but I didn't. The food was okay. I had the veggie fajitas they were way over salted, like waaaay over salted. It was inedible. However the rice and the beans were good better than average. The regular house salsa was bland and too sweet but the hotter sauce they have in the bottle was great. It had the right amount of spice. Overall the food was "meh" I would have given this place1 but the hot salsa, rice and beans were good. Drinks: I only had a margarita. One. It was too weak and way too tangy. I'm tiny so usually one margarita is all I need. I could have easily had two more and drove home. Service: They tried to seat other people ahead of us and once we ordered the waitress forgot we existed. Additionally, they gave me my tortillas late and my fiance never got his. Place was over lit and quite tacky. I do not plan on returning as Elvira's was way overpriced for the service and quality of food.
(2)Liz O.
This place has gone straight down AJ's throat! They have the worse service and the waitress are so trashy! Our waitress had "white bitch" tattooed on her hands. Way to keep classy customer base with that. Sad to see this place turn such a corner.
(1)Jim H.
Fantastic food, beautiful refreshing atmosphere, great service, very reasonable prices! We visited Elvira's twice when we were in town we liked it so much. I've had Mexican food all over Arizona, California, New Mexico, Nevada and Colorado ... and Elvira's is now one of my favorites. The most surprising thing is that it's in Apache Junction which has little good Mexican food to be found. We'll certainly be back!
(5)Taunya J.
Wonderful service and food. Ask for Barbara (the loud one with a braid) for a fun time. Table side guacamole ($7.50) is a full bowl of green goodness. Food comes out piping hot and stays hot. They have inside and outside dining. It has a full bar added and wonderful Mexican decor.
(5)Amy P.
Food was delicious, prices were great especially at happy hour and staff Barbara and PJ made our adventure here awesome!! Highly recommended!
(5)Jeremiah S.
Chips are excellent! Salsa is good and the hot salsa in the bottle is excellent. My wife ordered the fajita quesadilla and I got the beef Fajits. We were seated quickly and our waitress has been wonderful. Unfortunately the food is lacking greatly in seasoning. Great service great people just bad food.
(3)John B.
Absolutely one of the best Mexican joints around and the staff is amazing We drove far to get there and they were closed but they reopened for us! With all staff waiting on us. The margaritas are the best and service is top notch. If your in AJ go here!!
(5)Pattie B.
The saying, if it aint broke don't fix it should've applied to Elvira's. Before the remodel/expansion even though the place was much smaller and the wait for one's order was much longer, the food was much much better. Tonight my chile rellenos were greasy and the egg batter was soggy. The cheese enchilada and rice were ok. My husband's chicken chimichanga was bland and lacked flavor. The chips were so so but would be much better served warm. Don't think we'll return anytime soon, too many other better and more consistent choices when we're in the mood for Mexican food.
(2)Ronda C.
I really enjoyed the service. One of my favorite things to eat is enchiladas. But here, they're inconsistent. Last time was amazing. This time,the sauce tasted burnt, Which is typically how the sauce tastes to me.but I'm not just writing this review based on my experience, my daughter absolutely loves this place.
(4)Virginia D.
Came in expecting a good meal . Sat forever waiting for a server had to go get my own menus. Had to go ask for a server . She was less than happy to serve us . Bad attitude !! So now we have been here over 30 min with just got our drinks . Can't wait to see how long we wait for the food ..
(2)CN B.
I am giving 3 stars as the service was horrible but the food is a 5+. Large portions and excellent taste. I mentioned my concern regarding the issues with the server to the young man doing the seating. His reply was"we hear that a lot but people always come back". It seems service is ongoing issue and one that is unlikely to change. Plan on at least 2 hours. The young man was right, I will go back for the excellent food.
(3)Teri S.
Beautiful new place. We were seated promptly and water drinks chips and amazing freshly made salsa brought right away. We ordered and had our food within 10 minutes. Wait staff was friendly and professional. Food was hot and delicious. Prices were very reasonable . A great spot for a good appetite after hiking.
(4)Daniel V.
So sad to say that Elvira's will be taken out of the rotation. While the food is ok, well on the better side of most Mexican food places I've been to in Arizona. We have been there 5 or 6 times. The margaritas are good for the prices, but the service is terrible. I really want to support local business but the last 3 times the service was unbearable. Part of the problem at least during the week is the bartender doubles as a waitress, so between her tables she can make drinks. Seriously the last time it was 25 minutes before we had water or chips, or drinks. Total time on a Wednesday was over an hour it took so long I didn't bother ordering a second margarita. My other big issue is followup. We almost have to tackle the waitress to get a second drink. I guess they don't know the tip is based on the total check. It maybe a AJ thing you do see people with water only or soft drinks, but you would think for people ordering drinks they are going to spend more they would get ok service but sadly NOT!!! Thankfully handlebars is right down the street ..
(2)Jean V.
The staff was great today... I messed up when I ordered my burrito...they fixed it without any issues. We both had great burritos...chicken and shredded beef enchilada style.
(5)Amy S.
Went there for lunch I didn't know you could make flavor less mexican food but this plave proved me wrong. Cheese crisp no flavor. Chimmichanga no flavor I stole bell pepper and onions off my husband's plate. He didnt like his fsjitas either. Wont ever go back
(1)Melanie H.
We were very excited to go to Elvira's this evening! It was a beautiful 80* and we'd waited with anticipation as they remodeled. We decided this was the night for our first visit. We parked in the lovely back parking lot, walked by the beautiful patio and excitedly entered the building. Little did we know, but that's where the fairy tale ends. We asked the underwhelmed hostess if we could sit outside, 'We aren't seating outside,' she responded. We sucked it up and agreed to sit inside the beautifully remodeled building. The restaurant was nearly empty yet she tried to seat us at a table right by the hostess stand and kitchen door. We asked for a booth so we were seated at a booth created for no human with the booths so far from the table that we finally decided to pull the table toward one side of the booth and sit as 'same siders.' If their policy is to fill up the worst tables first I highly recommend they change that policy as no guest wants to know they are in a beautifully remodeled restaurant with a fabulous outdoor area and yet are given the choice of 2 places to sit, the bad table or the worse booth. We ordered 2 waters with lime and 2 draft beers that were listed on their menu under the draft beer heading, even pointing at our selection to be sure. We were brought 2 waters with lemon and 2 bottles of beer. We tried to stay positive with the lemon/lime mix up as the language barrier could have been the problem. We sent back the bottled beer for a brand she assured us they did have on draft. Lo and behold she came back 10 minutes later to tell us that they do not have draft beer. After being there for at least 20 minutes it finally occurred to us that that the beautiful evening sitting at the foot of the Superstition Mountains drinking a cold draft beer and eating great mexican food was probably not in our future so we did something we've never done, we politely left. I am an AJ resident and a foodie and I am determined that AJ CAN HAVE GOOD FOOD EXPERIENCES! Please Elvira's step up your game, we will be glad to give it another chance!
(2)Dale E.
Wonderful garlicky hot sauce has been on those tables for decades. You can buy that stuff by the pint or half pint and I have done that in the past as I'm leaving. Back in the day they wouldn't serve sour cream because it was not authentic (I notice they do now). Their fried ground beef tacos are slightly different than what most are used to-----in a good way. I'm not a fan of their relleno, but their enchiladas and beans have that bad-for-you great taste that I look for in Mexican fare. Big iced teas!
(4)Bob D.
We really wanted to like this place! Love the story, love the remodel, dislike the bland unauthentic food. Really poor food quality,Sorry but this place is a no go!!! Slow service for dinner and my carne was inedible, sent it back and received another chewy tasteless piece of leather.
(1)Clark L.
My favorite for twenty plus years. I was really excited when I saw that it was beautifully remodeled and reopened. Prices are understandably higher now. I really don't think the food is as good I remember, but I will still be a steady customer.
(4)Corin H.
Food was amazing and the seating is beautiful :) But the service was a little rushed even though there wasn't many people needing served.
(4)Dawn B.
We went here 2x in a week and service and food were awesome. I agree with other reviews about the staff being mostly teenagers and young adults. Some staff are not very professional especially towards closing time. 2 busers were screwing around slapping each other with wet rags in dining room while customers were in diningroom eating. Also a young hostess turned a group of 4 people away at 805p because apperantly they close at 8p. Well their website said they close at 9p. The customers told the hostess they read they close at 9p. But the hostess wasnt apologetic all all. She just said, No, we close at 8pm." And the people left unhappy. I asked the manager what time they close and she confirmed 8p. I said why does your website say 9p? She said, " Oh, I havnt changed it yet." They also dont serve tortillas with meals unless you ask. They have the traditional mexican soups. Menudo white and red. They serve you white unless you specify. Also pozole and albondigas(meatball)soup and cardo de res (like vegetable soup) My husband had the menudo and he said it was great and "clean", meaning non greasy. He said they use honeycomb tripe, which is better, I guess? I dont like Menudo so I dont know. I had the Caldo de rez soup and it was great. I had to add salt. Also they dont serve the traditional rice to put in the Caldo de rez, so i asked for a side. Another visit i had the albondigas soup. Great flavor. My husband had the Elviras special. It came on 2 plates. Huge portion for 13.00. He couldnt eat it all He said it was great. He is Mexican, so he knows good mexican food. I also ordered the spinach enchilada. The sauce was nasty. Pros-Good food, for the most part. Good, quick service. Nice decor. Clean diningroom. Nice staff. Good parking and good prices. Cons- No tortillas served with dishes unless you ask. (But good tortillas if you order them.) No rice served with soup unless you ask. Enchilada sauce is el nasto. Young staff, some Unprofessional. No breakfast served. They start putting up chairs and get ready to close an hour before they actually close while people are eating in diningroom still. They have a bar with a large tv also.
(4)Linda C.
We've frequented Elvira's since they were a little dive, and have enjoyed our meals. In spite of all of the negative reviews here, we have consistently experienced good service, server attentiveness, and good food. We've been to the new version of the restaurant about 4 times, and have had chimichangas, tacos, enchiladas, shrimp, tostadas. The chips and salsa are good, including the spicy salsa, beans and rice are average but good. We've never had a bad, cold or messed up meal. I think of this as good GringoMex, not authentic Mexican food. However, it is still good food, and we apparently are in the minority for enjoying good service. We do love the bright, colorful decor, it is quite attractive and festive. I recommend you give it a try...perhaps not during their busiest hours.
(4)Kim H.
While visiting an old friend we decided to stop in here for lunch, she said we had to sit in Barb's section. Chips and salsa came to the table, but Barb was already greeting us with her bright smile & quick wit. I'm so glad we ate here. Barb made me laugh & enjoy the meal we had together. Thanks Barb for brightening my day & a memorable lunch.
(5)Suzanne L.
I am officially bummed. I have been eating at Elviras since the early 70's. Their hot sauce was unique and always brought me back. Today I was served something that bears no resemblance to the original hot sauce and instead tasted like ketchup with red Chile mixed in. It was inedible. Where, in the world, is Carmen? We need her back making salsa and if Elviras wants to survive, so do they. Service was great,(thanks Barbara B) but the magic is gone.
(2)David A.
At first I was hesitant being mexican myself. The decor was very colorful and the service, despite the reviews I read, was great. I ordered the chicken flautas and it was not cooked how it is traditionally cooked, but it was still amazing. Normally they are fried with flower tortillas, but this had corn tortillas and I'm not entirely sure how they cooked it. None the less it was an awesome dish. I also ordered the chile relleno a la carte and they messed up and brought me the whole meal. Good thing was they only charged me for the a la carte. Overall great experience, don't believe the bad reviews. Also, the hot sauce they bring out in the bottle with your chips is awesome!
(5)Carolyn S.
I really like this place, but their menu is a little slim. They should add a few items or try some new dishes. Their food is always fresh, piping hot and portions are large. I can never finish. Salsa is yummy and one of my favorites in town. The staff are a little slow but courteous. The ambiance is nice, place is clean and spacious. Not too loud either.
(4)Nancy B.
Do not pay with a cc. They scammed me and the other people that were with us out of money charged my card 4 times going to the state attorney general office first thing in the morning the other people scammed them out of 500 buck they told me. Charged their card over and over. When we got the first charge we both told them the charge was wrong so did it again and again I asked for the return paperwork and they told us oh we don't have to return because it does not get charged till I close out the charge. Liars They scammed us
(1)Kayla K.
Elvira's is just down the street from our Grandpa and Grandma's retirement community, and when we drove by, it looked so inviting that we knew we would be planning a trip while visiting. :) When we got their the parking lot was packed, so we were not surprised by the 15-20 minute wait, and we were able to visit the bar and get a drink while we waited, which was nice. Due to the busyness of the restaurant, the service once we were seated was a little compromised, but all-in-all, when we asked for something, the waiters and waitresses responded well and filled our request promptly. The food was good. Nothing wowed us, but it also didn't make us wrinkle our noses or regret our decision to dine here.
(4)Alexis S.
It took five minutes just to get the chips and salsa. The waitress brought my food out at least five minutes before my husband got his plate. They forgot to put the sauce on his chimichanga. The waitress lied and said it was inside the chimichanga. The "carne asada" tasted like old watered down beef. My chicken chimichanga reeked of fish. We each took one bite and decided to leave. We walked in hungry and left hungry. This place is absolutely 100% disgusting. Go elsewhere, don't waste your time or money.
(1)John R.
Food was great, servers were marginal, but it took almost an hour to get our food. Unacceptable for Mexican food. Wasn't very busy. Atmosphere was nice.
(3)Sallyann B.
Great food. Chips and salsa were delish. Carnitas were authentic and the waitress was on the money. Will be back for sure
(5)Christie C.
So I tried the "new" Elvira's. The new place is very bright and colorful, clean, nice place. I really like the decor, but I'm afraid you just can't make a silk purse out of a sows ear. Although our waitress was pleasant and worked hard, you could tell she was not getting much help. I don't know what the problem was. There are only about 15 tables and the place seems to be in complete confusion. There were 3 or 4 waitresses, 3 to 4 bus people, one guy that helping and the rudest bartender I have ever come across. Our waitress was running her butt off. Our food came out in a timely fashion. THe atmosphere was just "uneasy" cause of all the confusion. The food was kind of like Taco Bell without flavor. Ok, I can live with that, after all, it is AJ. We ordered Margarita and a Tom Collins. THe margarita was your basic amateur margarita. Tequila and margarita mix. Totally drinkable but the tom collins was a short glass, VODKA with a splash or club soda and sprite??? Oh, and don't forget the bug. A small black bug floating in it. I scooped it out, this is Az and bugs get into stuff, but what I didn't like was the drink so I sent it back in exchange for a margarita. That's when this ridicules "bartender" (and I use that term loosely) came out and asked me in a very rude tone "what did I think was in a tom collins." rolled her eyes and left. Absolutely unbelievable, we won't be back, and when I'm asked about places to eat in AJ, which I often am being a local, I will tell Elvira's is not the place to go!
(1)Shelby H.
This place is definitely a mom and pop kind of shop and that's how I like them! When you pull up you can tell it looks like a run down place and a lot of construction to the building is still being done, but don't let that fool you! It's a very small space, cheap seats, but we had a great waitress! She was an older lady and had a outstanding personality. The food was good, it was a bit spicey at first, but you get used to it! It's a little on the pricey side, I had ordered just a bean burrito with enchilada sauce, and it was $6.00, but this place is still worth going to once if you haven't been!
(4)J Marie S.
Disappointing. The hot red sauce is good, but that's it. Margarita was the worst I ever had. Ordered a chicken dish and got a mystery meat. Sent it back and told them I didn't want anything else. They said they'd credit my bill like they were doing me a favor. Got the bill and they tried to charge me for a side of rice and beans...which came with the meal...and I didn't eat either! My husband had some kind if beef burrito that had grizzle throughout. We won't be back.
(1)Julie N.
I was very excited about trying Elvira's Mexican restaurant. I love the new building and decor. But that's where the good news ends. It took us 43 minutes from the time we set down at out table until the time we got our food. I ordered a cheese and onion enchilada. It was very small and no onion. There was more lettuce on my plate than enchilada. My husband ordered 3 taco that were luke warm and his retried beans were hard and kind of gross. The manager discounted our meal by 20% so that was nice. But with the food being bland, small portioned, and a long wait time, I would not recommend this place.
(1)Minor C.
Second time this winter season that we have eaten there! Food is good, chips crisp and the service was very good. Salsa was tasty but weak, but adding some of the red hot sauce from the squeeze bottle at the table allowed us to make it as hot as we wanted! Nice touch. Service was fast and we were checked by the waitress several time to make sure every thing was right. Other staff wandering by also asked if we needed anything or cleared plates. All in all a good visit. I'm sure we will be back before leaving the area.
(4)Travis H.
What to say here, love the small town feel but that's where I'll draw the line. The food is bland " and because everything is made fresh you could wait over 45 min to get it". And then you get the breakfast menu, well the biscuits & gravy are awesome, unfortunately this is a Mexican food joint.
(3)Kevin U.
I like bean and cheese burritos. I haven't tried any other food at Elvira's but the bean and cheese because they're so good. I always do take-out orders and they're always friendly on the phone and quick with my order. I don't live close, but I work just down the street, so it's a good place to go for lunch. If you're looking for a recommendation, this is it. I'd pick Elvira's over any place.
(5)Joseph A.
Went to this restraunt it was terrible. Service was horrible I think her name was Denice. Food was very dry not to mention when I got home and all this morning I have been sick.
(1)Susan G.
I was so disappointed! I used to love the old Elvira's. It looked old and rickety and was just as charming as anything could be and the food was fan-freaking-tastic! I was glad to hear that someone had bought it and rehired some of the old staff. I wasn't excited to hear that it was completely remodled but I have to admit that the health department was probably going to mandate it at some point. I was disappointed somewhat in the trite fiesta style they'd chosen for the decor but much more so in the food. It wasn't nearly as good as it used to be. I suppose they've tried to make it a little more "classy", it came out somewhat more american and just wasn't very good. The green enchilada sauce, which used to be wonderful there, was very sour, almost inedibly so, the shredded beef was a tad chewy as if it were a poor cut of meat or poorly prepared. The beans were terribly underseasoned and were helped by the hot sauce. The rice was actually very tastey but it had that dry, broken quality of minute rice. Still, it was far and away the best thing on my plate. The manager walked around asking how everything was but clearly didn't really want to know because when we hesitated she supplied "delicious?" and hurried away. Had she looked at our plates she'd have noticed that our forks were down and two of the four plates on the table had only a couple of bites out of them. We don't expect much in the way of service at Elvira's since it's really the food that used to attract us but that seems to have gone down somewhat as well. If a server can't remember which patron the beverage glasses belong to when they're returning them from refilling, it's important that they NOT take them away! They're going to have to start refilling with a pitcher. Just because someone is seated with you doesn't mean that you would be willing to drink from their glass. That was our last trip to Elvira's.
(1)Dawn A.
Dined here on the recommendation of a neighbor. The food was bland, boring and overpriced. By the time I finished my food there was a little pool of water from the lettuce and my tostada was stacked on top of the other food on the plate.
(1)Jeff L.
Elvira's has been around for a long time and it looks like it. When another guest sat down in the booth behind me they nearly knocked me into my plate. Anchor those booth backs. Service not so good. Never checked back, late with the check. Other patrons children running wild. Not such a great experience. 18 years in AJ first and last time at Elvira's .
(1)Rick S.
Good Food , new addition being built should really be nice when done, Then they will have a bar and patio, Hope the margaritas are good might become a regular.
(3)Andrea C.
This place is old but the food was awesome. The service was ok.
(4)Angel J.
Poor service!!! It took 45 minutes to get our food, our waitress did not get our orders right and argued with us about it!!! We had to continuously ask for refills. What kind of customer service is that!!! She might of got it right if she wrote our order down. Even after we reodered, my sister's food still wasn't right!!! We were there for over a hour waiting for our correct order. That's ridiculous! When we asked for a manager we were told the manager was on vacation so we talked with the lady in charge who was rude, accused us of trying to get a free meals which was not the case! Very disrespectful people working there. The only time the waitress apologized was when we were paying the check, trying to still get her tip. We will keep calling until we speak to the manager no matter how long it takes! If you don't like your job find something else because this industry does not fit you ladies, I'm not going to name drop although I really want too. Get it together!!!! Make sure you put someone in charge who is respectful when you're on vacation management!
(1)Myhanh L.
This place would be awesome possum to go to when ur in town. I love how its nice and colorful inside . The workers there are nice and friendly with good service. The price are well priced . I would totally come here again.
(5)Joyce A.
uck! says it all. had a party of eight. . On;y one other table for two. Ttook for ever for the server to come ask for drinks, then it took forever to get our drinks. She must have forgotten us or took a break because she didn't take our orders for about ten minutes. Food was stale, dry and no taste. No one like their food. Will never come back. took a long time to get our check, infact i had to round her up,
(1)Dede B.
I lOVE Elvira's warmth & hospitality. I live year-round in AJ & Elvira's is my "Go to" place when I need good Mexican food & atmosphere. The posole and the enchiladas are wonderful. Not a fan of the chile releno though, but everything else is great.
(4)Jaclyn B.
Food was great! PJ and Barbara were fun, witty, and fantastic! We (3 gals from Minnesota and Wisconsin) were in town for a fun girls week. We went to happy hour from 3-6 for the 3$ margaritas. They were great and the appetizers were delicious! I would definitely come back again! A cute atmosphere as well. Inexpensive and worth the drive into Apache Junction. Right across from Walmart
(5)Matthew A.
The food was great but the service was not nearly as good as the food. I'm pretty sure the staff did not want to be there. Next time I'll just order take out.
(3)Donna M.
The newly remodeled restaurant is great but noisy. There is a sitting area outside that is quieter. They could use some improved acoustics inside.. The food was good, hot and reasonably priced and didn't take too long to prepare. I would go again. We went for breakfast and really enjoyed it.
(5)Vanessa S.
Overpriced, mediocre food. The food is overpriced to begin with, but that's not all. Elvira will nickel and dime you for EVERYTHING. I've NEVER heard of a restaurant charging you for the freaking to-go container! LAME! Not only is it overpriced, but the staff couldn't get our order right to save their lives! We had to go back TWICE to get everything correct. The food wasn't anything to right home about either. Our enchiladas weren't even rolled up, they were just folded over tortillas topped with lukewarm sauce. Fail!
(1)Jami W.
We have been going for over 10 years and since the new "owner" took over they suck! Yup, that is the word I am using SUCKS! I even called them 4x's to inquirer them catering our rehearsal dinner and never once did anyone call me back!! This is our Sunday routine no longer!! We will be going to jack n the box for now on! That is how bad this place is!! Service is pitiful, I have never seen any form of management in there. DONE !! I do not recommend wasting your time with this place!
(1)Corin H.
Food was amazing and the seating is beautiful :) But the service was a little rushed even though there wasn't many people needing served.
(4)Suzanne L.
I am officially bummed. I have been eating at Elviras since the early 70's. Their hot sauce was unique and always brought me back. Today I was served something that bears no resemblance to the original hot sauce and instead tasted like ketchup with red Chile mixed in. It was inedible. Where, in the world, is Carmen? We need her back making salsa and if Elviras wants to survive, so do they. Service was great,(thanks Barbara B) but the magic is gone.
(2)David A.
At first I was hesitant being mexican myself. The decor was very colorful and the service, despite the reviews I read, was great. I ordered the chicken flautas and it was not cooked how it is traditionally cooked, but it was still amazing. Normally they are fried with flower tortillas, but this had corn tortillas and I'm not entirely sure how they cooked it. None the less it was an awesome dish. I also ordered the chile relleno a la carte and they messed up and brought me the whole meal. Good thing was they only charged me for the a la carte. Overall great experience, don't believe the bad reviews. Also, the hot sauce they bring out in the bottle with your chips is awesome!
(5)Carolyn S.
I really like this place, but their menu is a little slim. They should add a few items or try some new dishes. Their food is always fresh, piping hot and portions are large. I can never finish. Salsa is yummy and one of my favorites in town. The staff are a little slow but courteous. The ambiance is nice, place is clean and spacious. Not too loud either.
(4)Nancy B.
Do not pay with a cc. They scammed me and the other people that were with us out of money charged my card 4 times going to the state attorney general office first thing in the morning the other people scammed them out of 500 buck they told me. Charged their card over and over. When we got the first charge we both told them the charge was wrong so did it again and again I asked for the return paperwork and they told us oh we don't have to return because it does not get charged till I close out the charge. Liars They scammed us
(1)Dawn B.
We went here 2x in a week and service and food were awesome. I agree with other reviews about the staff being mostly teenagers and young adults. Some staff are not very professional especially towards closing time. 2 busers were screwing around slapping each other with wet rags in dining room while customers were in diningroom eating. Also a young hostess turned a group of 4 people away at 805p because apperantly they close at 8p. Well their website said they close at 9p. The customers told the hostess they read they close at 9p. But the hostess wasnt apologetic all all. She just said, No, we close at 8pm." And the people left unhappy. I asked the manager what time they close and she confirmed 8p. I said why does your website say 9p? She said, " Oh, I havnt changed it yet." They also dont serve tortillas with meals unless you ask. They have the traditional mexican soups. Menudo white and red. They serve you white unless you specify. Also pozole and albondigas(meatball)soup and cardo de res (like vegetable soup) My husband had the menudo and he said it was great and "clean", meaning non greasy. He said they use honeycomb tripe, which is better, I guess? I dont like Menudo so I dont know. I had the Caldo de rez soup and it was great. I had to add salt. Also they dont serve the traditional rice to put in the Caldo de rez, so i asked for a side. Another visit i had the albondigas soup. Great flavor. My husband had the Elviras special. It came on 2 plates. Huge portion for 13.00. He couldnt eat it all He said it was great. He is Mexican, so he knows good mexican food. I also ordered the spinach enchilada. The sauce was nasty. Pros-Good food, for the most part. Good, quick service. Nice decor. Clean diningroom. Nice staff. Good parking and good prices. Cons- No tortillas served with dishes unless you ask. (But good tortillas if you order them.) No rice served with soup unless you ask. Enchilada sauce is el nasto. Young staff, some Unprofessional. No breakfast served. They start putting up chairs and get ready to close an hour before they actually close while people are eating in diningroom still. They have a bar with a large tv also.
(4)Linda C.
We've frequented Elvira's since they were a little dive, and have enjoyed our meals. In spite of all of the negative reviews here, we have consistently experienced good service, server attentiveness, and good food. We've been to the new version of the restaurant about 4 times, and have had chimichangas, tacos, enchiladas, shrimp, tostadas. The chips and salsa are good, including the spicy salsa, beans and rice are average but good. We've never had a bad, cold or messed up meal. I think of this as good GringoMex, not authentic Mexican food. However, it is still good food, and we apparently are in the minority for enjoying good service. We do love the bright, colorful decor, it is quite attractive and festive. I recommend you give it a try...perhaps not during their busiest hours.
(4)Kim H.
While visiting an old friend we decided to stop in here for lunch, she said we had to sit in Barb's section. Chips and salsa came to the table, but Barb was already greeting us with her bright smile & quick wit. I'm so glad we ate here. Barb made me laugh & enjoy the meal we had together. Thanks Barb for brightening my day & a memorable lunch.
(5)Kayla K.
Elvira's is just down the street from our Grandpa and Grandma's retirement community, and when we drove by, it looked so inviting that we knew we would be planning a trip while visiting. :) When we got their the parking lot was packed, so we were not surprised by the 15-20 minute wait, and we were able to visit the bar and get a drink while we waited, which was nice. Due to the busyness of the restaurant, the service once we were seated was a little compromised, but all-in-all, when we asked for something, the waiters and waitresses responded well and filled our request promptly. The food was good. Nothing wowed us, but it also didn't make us wrinkle our noses or regret our decision to dine here.
(4)Linda P.
Our family has eaten at Elvira's for over ten years. I ordered Menudo this past week, which contained tripe that was literally not eatable. It was slimy and fatty tripe that was not cooked properly. I was not able to chew, much swallow it without almost choking. I tried eating three pieces of the tripe in my serving of menudo. When I called this to the attention of our waitress, she asked I assume was the manager over to our booth. This rude, arrogant female named "Alex" insisted that there was nothing wrong with the tripe, that it was obviously "my preference" that was the problem. I told her I would not pay for a bowl of menudo that I could not eat, she insisted that there was nothing wrong with it. I told her we would no longer frequent Elvira's because of her attitude and dismissal of my complaint. Alex's reply was "That's Fine". She proceeded to tell my son that the best she could do was discount the $8.50 bowl of menudo by 10%. My son paid and I left Elvira's without eating, disgusted with Alex's attitude, rudeness and indifference to my complaint. I hope the owners of Elvira's view this comment..
(1)Stephen K.
The food was excellent. The restaurant was very busy on Saturday afternoon. We enjoyed the service, atmosphere, and the food.
(4)Julianne H.
I called the day before my family came here and told them there was going to be 8 of us. Needless to say when we got there they did not write my name in the books but got us a table together right away. They were also just opening when we got there. The service from our waitress was horribile, there was a point where my sister had to go up and grab us all silverware. Our food was brought out 1 by 1 about 5 min apart. I ordered a green chili burrito and got a red..but it was still good. The salsa in a bottle is amazing.....also they weren't even busy when we were there so not quite sure why the service was horribile. I will give them 3 stars for the food.
(3)J M.
Wow, owner just messaged me, cursing and telling me best to never leave my hometown state. Classy. Now who wants to do business with ppl like this?
(1)E D.
I've been here twice always hoping it will be better than I remember and I was disappointed again! I will say the decor is absolutely beautiful but the food is garbage. This is more of a Tex Mex place then I would consider authentic Mexican. I had the Chimichanga and it seems that anything you order comes prepared basically the same way with the same flavours (kind of flavourless.) Majority of the staff are teenagers who don't really care about service. Sadly I won't return again as I've been disappointed too many times, I want AUTHENTIC Mexican.
(2)Ann C.
This one is a pass. The food is sub par and the service is terrible. My husband was served a completely different dish then he ordered and received no more than a slight shrug.
(2)Annie B.
We are regulars and enjoy the food; however, the service has started to get worse and worse. Sat for a good 10 min. before we were approached with chips and salsa. Another 10 min. for drink orders. Drinks came, no straws. Asked the little girl, who acted like Wednesday from the Adams Family for straws and she ducked her head, hair in face and went back to the register, playing on her phone. Sat for another 10 min. to order our food. Our tea glasses became dry, no one came by to refill. Dinner came! The best part of the whole experience,as usual, was the excellent food. Please don't let this great establishment go to the dogs. The food is excellent. The service needs to improve. We are currently searching for a new favorite Mexican food restaurant.
(2)Lisa B.
Again, another review, another update. This place is not ever consistent, ever. We've gone back quite a few times since the last time I posted. I'm not a reviewer but something about this place caught my eye for the first time, second, third..... So I had to whether experience be good or bad. I still wish I knew this fabulous servers name, the only time we have ever had an enjoyable time (twice) and even another when we we sitting in bar, forgot about by our server this lady, my only favorite came by to say hi & quickly grabbed boxes, cleared empty plates and said let me get you some refills. Short brown hair, glasses and a huge smile. The name Elaine sounds familiar but I honestly just can't remember. But owners needs to put this lady in charge. Very attentive, knows what she's doing and puts smiles on everyone's face. Seriously. It's sad, this place has so much good quality, the food is fabulous you guys can do better but they need someone in charge. Not the young girls up front that are solving all the issues, taking-wrapping to go's (for 20 minutes & still come out wrong) , answering phones, seating.... Etc. Not these girls, it's a shame to not see this place poppin like it should be. Straighten up the service. I'm not sure after Sunday nights to go experience, we'll even waste our time coming back Here unless I see that lady (maybe Elaine) & know she'll be waiting on us.
(1)Christine G.
Waited close to an hour for food. Recieved greasy, half warm food. Crappy service. Bus boy was better than the wait staff. Never again.
(2)Chris E.
One evening I ate at one of Phoenix's most noted Mexican establishments. The next day I had lunch at Elvira's. It must have been a bad evening for the chef because I liked the food at Elvira's much more. Enjoyed the chips and salsa, the spinach enchiladas were kitchen-hot and well assembled. The beans and rice were a good compliment. Dining on the patio was excellent on that balmy afternoon. I'd go again.
(4)Jason S.
Since Serrano ' s Mexican Restaurant chain ...quality and food plummeted downhill .. This has to be what Mexican food is supposed to taste like. HOMEMADE SALSA.....Fantastic.. A bit of a wait at times...but quality food takes time.
(5)Sandi M.
We have only had good experiences with the food. Yummy salsa and chips, delicious Bloody Marys! Generous portions and fast food preparation. This last trip though, the service was awful. Slow to get orders, slow on drinks, no refills, and it was not busy. No excuse. The food however was amazing and the great cooks knocked it out! Go for the food, 3 stars for the service.
(3)Donna B.
Fellow hikers and I stopped at Elvira's Mexican Food on a recent Saturday after a hike up Gold Canyon to see the petroglyphs. Mexican is one of my favorite food groups, so I won't say "no" to trying a new place! (And certainly not after just having torched 1,019 calories hiking before lunch...) We arrived right around lunch time and were quickly accommodated with tables and chairs pulled together for our group. The interior decor is very bright and colorful; we found ourselves looking around at all the different art. I ordered the green chile beef chimichanga with double rice (no beans). The green chile gave it a different taste than I'm used to, but it was really good. The added guacamole and sour cream made for a perfect combination. The chips and salsa were excellent too. The restrooms are one-holers, so if you have a group who, say, just came from hiking Gold Canyon and say, all have to go the bathroom, well...make sure you get in the door first. We had great service, and it wasn't too crowded on a Saturday for lunch. I recommend this place!
(4)Julie J.
Just left there noon on Sunday, maybe a dozen customers and still were not seated. 3 employees walked to the front and looked at us none acknowledging us. There was a customer at the counter trying to get a refund for his take out order that they still had not filled. One worker came over and told him the reason it was taking so long was because of the bacon. That's when we decided to leave. If they can't seat us or even cook bacon in a timely manner no way would we be eating in the next hour. We use to love this place, hated when it closed rejoiced when it reopened but are now done. Last few experiences were not stellar and now it's clear the level of customer service we enjoyed left with the old staff.
(1)Levi B.
Service was very poor. They brought us the bill for the very gross tasting food and forgot about us. I had to walk in and pay myself after waiting for more than 30 min. Needless to say I won't be returning.
(1)Jaclyn B.
Food was great! PJ and Barbara were fun, witty, and fantastic! We (3 gals from Minnesota and Wisconsin) were in town for a fun girls week. We went to happy hour from 3-6 for the 3$ margaritas. They were great and the appetizers were delicious! I would definitely come back again! A cute atmosphere as well. Inexpensive and worth the drive into Apache Junction. Right across from Walmart
(5)Matthew A.
The food was great but the service was not nearly as good as the food. I'm pretty sure the staff did not want to be there. Next time I'll just order take out.
(3)Donna M.
The newly remodeled restaurant is great but noisy. There is a sitting area outside that is quieter. They could use some improved acoustics inside.. The food was good, hot and reasonably priced and didn't take too long to prepare. I would go again. We went for breakfast and really enjoyed it.
(5)Vanessa S.
Overpriced, mediocre food. The food is overpriced to begin with, but that's not all. Elvira will nickel and dime you for EVERYTHING. I've NEVER heard of a restaurant charging you for the freaking to-go container! LAME! Not only is it overpriced, but the staff couldn't get our order right to save their lives! We had to go back TWICE to get everything correct. The food wasn't anything to right home about either. Our enchiladas weren't even rolled up, they were just folded over tortillas topped with lukewarm sauce. Fail!
(1)Jean V.
The staff was great today... I messed up when I ordered my burrito...they fixed it without any issues. We both had great burritos...chicken and shredded beef enchilada style.
(5)Angel J.
Poor service!!! It took 45 minutes to get our food, our waitress did not get our orders right and argued with us about it!!! We had to continuously ask for refills. What kind of customer service is that!!! She might of got it right if she wrote our order down. Even after we reodered, my sister's food still wasn't right!!! We were there for over a hour waiting for our correct order. That's ridiculous! When we asked for a manager we were told the manager was on vacation so we talked with the lady in charge who was rude, accused us of trying to get a free meals which was not the case! Very disrespectful people working there. The only time the waitress apologized was when we were paying the check, trying to still get her tip. We will keep calling until we speak to the manager no matter how long it takes! If you don't like your job find something else because this industry does not fit you ladies, I'm not going to name drop although I really want too. Get it together!!!! Make sure you put someone in charge who is respectful when you're on vacation management!
(1)Jeremiah S.
Chips are excellent! Salsa is good and the hot salsa in the bottle is excellent. My wife ordered the fajita quesadilla and I got the beef Fajits. We were seated quickly and our waitress has been wonderful. Unfortunately the food is lacking greatly in seasoning. Great service great people just bad food.
(3)John B.
Absolutely one of the best Mexican joints around and the staff is amazing We drove far to get there and they were closed but they reopened for us! With all staff waiting on us. The margaritas are the best and service is top notch. If your in AJ go here!!
(5)Laurian L.
Always on the hunt for a good Mexican restaurant. Elvira's is in our backyard so I figured I'd try it. Probably the better to go someplace else. Food was so so service was so so. the service wasn't much better. You know the server never picked up any empty plates off work table didn't refill the drinks. Pleasant enough atmosphere not worth the coins in my book. Would I come here again? Most likely not
(2)Sarah R.
I wanted to like this place but I didn't. The food was okay. I had the veggie fajitas they were way over salted, like waaaay over salted. It was inedible. However the rice and the beans were good better than average. The regular house salsa was bland and too sweet but the hotter sauce they have in the bottle was great. It had the right amount of spice. Overall the food was "meh" I would have given this place1 but the hot salsa, rice and beans were good. Drinks: I only had a margarita. One. It was too weak and way too tangy. I'm tiny so usually one margarita is all I need. I could have easily had two more and drove home. Service: They tried to seat other people ahead of us and once we ordered the waitress forgot we existed. Additionally, they gave me my tortillas late and my fiance never got his. Place was over lit and quite tacky. I do not plan on returning as Elvira's was way overpriced for the service and quality of food.
(2)L L.
We have gone here several times over the years and have really seen this place transform. The atmosphere here has really improved and the service is always exceptional. I have liked everything I have tried on the menu with the exception of their red and green chili burrito's and the bean dip appetizer. My family's favorite are their enchiladas. They are fantastic!! We also love the tacos. The beans and rice are great too. The green chili cheese crisp is a great appetizer if you are looking for one. Overall, we love this place!.
(4)Liz O.
This place has gone straight down AJ's throat! They have the worse service and the waitress are so trashy! Our waitress had "white bitch" tattooed on her hands. Way to keep classy customer base with that. Sad to see this place turn such a corner.
(1)Jim H.
Fantastic food, beautiful refreshing atmosphere, great service, very reasonable prices! We visited Elvira's twice when we were in town we liked it so much. I've had Mexican food all over Arizona, California, New Mexico, Nevada and Colorado ... and Elvira's is now one of my favorites. The most surprising thing is that it's in Apache Junction which has little good Mexican food to be found. We'll certainly be back!
(5)Taunya J.
Wonderful service and food. Ask for Barbara (the loud one with a braid) for a fun time. Table side guacamole ($7.50) is a full bowl of green goodness. Food comes out piping hot and stays hot. They have inside and outside dining. It has a full bar added and wonderful Mexican decor.
(5)Amy P.
Food was delicious, prices were great especially at happy hour and staff Barbara and PJ made our adventure here awesome!! Highly recommended!
(5)Pattie B.
The saying, if it aint broke don't fix it should've applied to Elvira's. Before the remodel/expansion even though the place was much smaller and the wait for one's order was much longer, the food was much much better. Tonight my chile rellenos were greasy and the egg batter was soggy. The cheese enchilada and rice were ok. My husband's chicken chimichanga was bland and lacked flavor. The chips were so so but would be much better served warm. Don't think we'll return anytime soon, too many other better and more consistent choices when we're in the mood for Mexican food.
(2)Ronda C.
I really enjoyed the service. One of my favorite things to eat is enchiladas. But here, they're inconsistent. Last time was amazing. This time,the sauce tasted burnt, Which is typically how the sauce tastes to me.but I'm not just writing this review based on my experience, my daughter absolutely loves this place.
(4)Virginia D.
Came in expecting a good meal . Sat forever waiting for a server had to go get my own menus. Had to go ask for a server . She was less than happy to serve us . Bad attitude !! So now we have been here over 30 min with just got our drinks . Can't wait to see how long we wait for the food ..
(2)CN B.
I am giving 3 stars as the service was horrible but the food is a 5+. Large portions and excellent taste. I mentioned my concern regarding the issues with the server to the young man doing the seating. His reply was"we hear that a lot but people always come back". It seems service is ongoing issue and one that is unlikely to change. Plan on at least 2 hours. The young man was right, I will go back for the excellent food.
(3)Teri S.
Beautiful new place. We were seated promptly and water drinks chips and amazing freshly made salsa brought right away. We ordered and had our food within 10 minutes. Wait staff was friendly and professional. Food was hot and delicious. Prices were very reasonable . A great spot for a good appetite after hiking.
(4)Daniel V.
So sad to say that Elvira's will be taken out of the rotation. While the food is ok, well on the better side of most Mexican food places I've been to in Arizona. We have been there 5 or 6 times. The margaritas are good for the prices, but the service is terrible. I really want to support local business but the last 3 times the service was unbearable. Part of the problem at least during the week is the bartender doubles as a waitress, so between her tables she can make drinks. Seriously the last time it was 25 minutes before we had water or chips, or drinks. Total time on a Wednesday was over an hour it took so long I didn't bother ordering a second margarita. My other big issue is followup. We almost have to tackle the waitress to get a second drink. I guess they don't know the tip is based on the total check. It maybe a AJ thing you do see people with water only or soft drinks, but you would think for people ordering drinks they are going to spend more they would get ok service but sadly NOT!!! Thankfully handlebars is right down the street ..
(2)Myhanh L.
This place would be awesome possum to go to when ur in town. I love how its nice and colorful inside . The workers there are nice and friendly with good service. The price are well priced . I would totally come here again.
(5)Joyce A.
uck! says it all. had a party of eight. . On;y one other table for two. Ttook for ever for the server to come ask for drinks, then it took forever to get our drinks. She must have forgotten us or took a break because she didn't take our orders for about ten minutes. Food was stale, dry and no taste. No one like their food. Will never come back. took a long time to get our check, infact i had to round her up,
(1)Dede B.
I lOVE Elvira's warmth & hospitality. I live year-round in AJ & Elvira's is my "Go to" place when I need good Mexican food & atmosphere. The posole and the enchiladas are wonderful. Not a fan of the chile releno though, but everything else is great.
(4)Alexis S.
It took five minutes just to get the chips and salsa. The waitress brought my food out at least five minutes before my husband got his plate. They forgot to put the sauce on his chimichanga. The waitress lied and said it was inside the chimichanga. The "carne asada" tasted like old watered down beef. My chicken chimichanga reeked of fish. We each took one bite and decided to leave. We walked in hungry and left hungry. This place is absolutely 100% disgusting. Go elsewhere, don't waste your time or money.
(1)John R.
Food was great, servers were marginal, but it took almost an hour to get our food. Unacceptable for Mexican food. Wasn't very busy. Atmosphere was nice.
(3)Sallyann B.
Great food. Chips and salsa were delish. Carnitas were authentic and the waitress was on the money. Will be back for sure
(5)Melanie H.
We were very excited to go to Elvira's this evening! It was a beautiful 80* and we'd waited with anticipation as they remodeled. We decided this was the night for our first visit. We parked in the lovely back parking lot, walked by the beautiful patio and excitedly entered the building. Little did we know, but that's where the fairy tale ends. We asked the underwhelmed hostess if we could sit outside, 'We aren't seating outside,' she responded. We sucked it up and agreed to sit inside the beautifully remodeled building. The restaurant was nearly empty yet she tried to seat us at a table right by the hostess stand and kitchen door. We asked for a booth so we were seated at a booth created for no human with the booths so far from the table that we finally decided to pull the table toward one side of the booth and sit as 'same siders.' If their policy is to fill up the worst tables first I highly recommend they change that policy as no guest wants to know they are in a beautifully remodeled restaurant with a fabulous outdoor area and yet are given the choice of 2 places to sit, the bad table or the worse booth. We ordered 2 waters with lime and 2 draft beers that were listed on their menu under the draft beer heading, even pointing at our selection to be sure. We were brought 2 waters with lemon and 2 bottles of beer. We tried to stay positive with the lemon/lime mix up as the language barrier could have been the problem. We sent back the bottled beer for a brand she assured us they did have on draft. Lo and behold she came back 10 minutes later to tell us that they do not have draft beer. After being there for at least 20 minutes it finally occurred to us that that the beautiful evening sitting at the foot of the Superstition Mountains drinking a cold draft beer and eating great mexican food was probably not in our future so we did something we've never done, we politely left. I am an AJ resident and a foodie and I am determined that AJ CAN HAVE GOOD FOOD EXPERIENCES! Please Elvira's step up your game, we will be glad to give it another chance!
(2)Bob D.
We really wanted to like this place! Love the story, love the remodel, dislike the bland unauthentic food. Really poor food quality,Sorry but this place is a no go!!! Slow service for dinner and my carne was inedible, sent it back and received another chewy tasteless piece of leather.
(1)Clark L.
My favorite for twenty plus years. I was really excited when I saw that it was beautifully remodeled and reopened. Prices are understandably higher now. I really don't think the food is as good I remember, but I will still be a steady customer.
(4)Dale E.
Wonderful garlicky hot sauce has been on those tables for decades. You can buy that stuff by the pint or half pint and I have done that in the past as I'm leaving. Back in the day they wouldn't serve sour cream because it was not authentic (I notice they do now). Their fried ground beef tacos are slightly different than what most are used to-----in a good way. I'm not a fan of their relleno, but their enchiladas and beans have that bad-for-you great taste that I look for in Mexican fare. Big iced teas!
(4)Amy S.
Went there for lunch I didn't know you could make flavor less mexican food but this plave proved me wrong. Cheese crisp no flavor. Chimmichanga no flavor I stole bell pepper and onions off my husband's plate. He didnt like his fsjitas either. Wont ever go back
(1)Minor C.
Second time this winter season that we have eaten there! Food is good, chips crisp and the service was very good. Salsa was tasty but weak, but adding some of the red hot sauce from the squeeze bottle at the table allowed us to make it as hot as we wanted! Nice touch. Service was fast and we were checked by the waitress several time to make sure every thing was right. Other staff wandering by also asked if we needed anything or cleared plates. All in all a good visit. I'm sure we will be back before leaving the area.
(4)Travis H.
What to say here, love the small town feel but that's where I'll draw the line. The food is bland " and because everything is made fresh you could wait over 45 min to get it". And then you get the breakfast menu, well the biscuits & gravy are awesome, unfortunately this is a Mexican food joint.
(3)Kevin U.
I like bean and cheese burritos. I haven't tried any other food at Elvira's but the bean and cheese because they're so good. I always do take-out orders and they're always friendly on the phone and quick with my order. I don't live close, but I work just down the street, so it's a good place to go for lunch. If you're looking for a recommendation, this is it. I'd pick Elvira's over any place.
(5)Christie C.
So I tried the "new" Elvira's. The new place is very bright and colorful, clean, nice place. I really like the decor, but I'm afraid you just can't make a silk purse out of a sows ear. Although our waitress was pleasant and worked hard, you could tell she was not getting much help. I don't know what the problem was. There are only about 15 tables and the place seems to be in complete confusion. There were 3 or 4 waitresses, 3 to 4 bus people, one guy that helping and the rudest bartender I have ever come across. Our waitress was running her butt off. Our food came out in a timely fashion. THe atmosphere was just "uneasy" cause of all the confusion. The food was kind of like Taco Bell without flavor. Ok, I can live with that, after all, it is AJ. We ordered Margarita and a Tom Collins. THe margarita was your basic amateur margarita. Tequila and margarita mix. Totally drinkable but the tom collins was a short glass, VODKA with a splash or club soda and sprite??? Oh, and don't forget the bug. A small black bug floating in it. I scooped it out, this is Az and bugs get into stuff, but what I didn't like was the drink so I sent it back in exchange for a margarita. That's when this ridicules "bartender" (and I use that term loosely) came out and asked me in a very rude tone "what did I think was in a tom collins." rolled her eyes and left. Absolutely unbelievable, we won't be back, and when I'm asked about places to eat in AJ, which I often am being a local, I will tell Elvira's is not the place to go!
(1)Shelby H.
This place is definitely a mom and pop kind of shop and that's how I like them! When you pull up you can tell it looks like a run down place and a lot of construction to the building is still being done, but don't let that fool you! It's a very small space, cheap seats, but we had a great waitress! She was an older lady and had a outstanding personality. The food was good, it was a bit spicey at first, but you get used to it! It's a little on the pricey side, I had ordered just a bean burrito with enchilada sauce, and it was $6.00, but this place is still worth going to once if you haven't been!
(4)J Marie S.
Disappointing. The hot red sauce is good, but that's it. Margarita was the worst I ever had. Ordered a chicken dish and got a mystery meat. Sent it back and told them I didn't want anything else. They said they'd credit my bill like they were doing me a favor. Got the bill and they tried to charge me for a side of rice and beans...which came with the meal...and I didn't eat either! My husband had some kind if beef burrito that had grizzle throughout. We won't be back.
(1)Julie N.
I was very excited about trying Elvira's Mexican restaurant. I love the new building and decor. But that's where the good news ends. It took us 43 minutes from the time we set down at out table until the time we got our food. I ordered a cheese and onion enchilada. It was very small and no onion. There was more lettuce on my plate than enchilada. My husband ordered 3 taco that were luke warm and his retried beans were hard and kind of gross. The manager discounted our meal by 20% so that was nice. But with the food being bland, small portioned, and a long wait time, I would not recommend this place.
(1)Joseph A.
Went to this restraunt it was terrible. Service was horrible I think her name was Denice. Food was very dry not to mention when I got home and all this morning I have been sick.
(1)Susan G.
I was so disappointed! I used to love the old Elvira's. It looked old and rickety and was just as charming as anything could be and the food was fan-freaking-tastic! I was glad to hear that someone had bought it and rehired some of the old staff. I wasn't excited to hear that it was completely remodled but I have to admit that the health department was probably going to mandate it at some point. I was disappointed somewhat in the trite fiesta style they'd chosen for the decor but much more so in the food. It wasn't nearly as good as it used to be. I suppose they've tried to make it a little more "classy", it came out somewhat more american and just wasn't very good. The green enchilada sauce, which used to be wonderful there, was very sour, almost inedibly so, the shredded beef was a tad chewy as if it were a poor cut of meat or poorly prepared. The beans were terribly underseasoned and were helped by the hot sauce. The rice was actually very tastey but it had that dry, broken quality of minute rice. Still, it was far and away the best thing on my plate. The manager walked around asking how everything was but clearly didn't really want to know because when we hesitated she supplied "delicious?" and hurried away. Had she looked at our plates she'd have noticed that our forks were down and two of the four plates on the table had only a couple of bites out of them. We don't expect much in the way of service at Elvira's since it's really the food that used to attract us but that seems to have gone down somewhat as well. If a server can't remember which patron the beverage glasses belong to when they're returning them from refilling, it's important that they NOT take them away! They're going to have to start refilling with a pitcher. Just because someone is seated with you doesn't mean that you would be willing to drink from their glass. That was our last trip to Elvira's.
(1)Dawn A.
Dined here on the recommendation of a neighbor. The food was bland, boring and overpriced. By the time I finished my food there was a little pool of water from the lettuce and my tostada was stacked on top of the other food on the plate.
(1)Jeff L.
Elvira's has been around for a long time and it looks like it. When another guest sat down in the booth behind me they nearly knocked me into my plate. Anchor those booth backs. Service not so good. Never checked back, late with the check. Other patrons children running wild. Not such a great experience. 18 years in AJ first and last time at Elvira's .
(1)Rick S.
Good Food , new addition being built should really be nice when done, Then they will have a bar and patio, Hope the margaritas are good might become a regular.
(3)Andrea C.
This place is old but the food was awesome. The service was ok.
(4)Kelly C.
This place, according to what I have heard, was supposed to be like Globe-Miami mexican food. So Megan and I make the trek out there, it's in AJ and we live in West Mesa, so it's quite the drive. We are so excited., as I grew up in Globe and hardly ever get up there anymore. And I LOVE the mexican food. Irene's, Chalos, Libby's El Rey, etc. It looks like a Globe place, and the people in there defintely have that small town Globe hick look about them too. The food......just ok. What was weird is that the taco meat was nice and warm, but the taco shell was cold. For god's sake, heat up your taco shells, Elvira! Megan got a combination bean and green chili burro enchilada style, and I got a combination red chili and bean burro enchilada style. Both had one taco. They were....ok. Service was great though. Not worth the trek though, won't go back.
(3)Steve L.
We first went this restaurant about 10 years ago and had not returned until today. It my be another 10 years before we go back. On the positive side the interior of the restaurant is very nice, the chips are ok, and the waitress we has was ok. On the minus side the salsa was hot with no alternative, the tacos were bland, and the enchiladas were very spicy. Three shredded tacos were $9.50 with no rice or beans. La Casita, Los gringos , and Filibertos are all better choices in The Apache Junction area
(2)Catherine C.
Although they have been around for decades, I did not learn about them until about 6 or so years ago. Wonderful Mother/Daughter traditional and authentic (no sour cream) reliable food, in a small building with good parking. There are sometimes more take-out customers waiting for their "fix" than people at the restaurant. Note: to spicy-avoiders their salsa is a bit tangy for the non-heat lovers. Everything is prepared as you order, so be patient. I am also a huge fan of Tia Rosa's in Mesa with a totally different take on the Mexican menu, so it is not just the fact Elvira's is Mexican.
(5)Barbara F.
love this place ever since i was a kid and now my kids love it! love the salsa and chips no one else comes close.... i also like the fried bean burritos but beware the service is a bit slow. thats why i gave it 4 stars. not sure how the new owners are will be trying them soon!
(4)