El Ojo De Agua
2115 University Ave, Riverside, CA, 92507
El Ojo De Agua Menu
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Visit below restaurant in Riverside for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Riverside for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Riverside for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
2115 University Ave
Riverside, CA, 92507 - Phone (951) 779-6293
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :7:00 am - 9:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
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 : No
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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Miyeon L.
Ever since I moved back to the IE, I find myself pining for the culinary diversity of Orange and LA county -- just not the drive out. I've been on the hunt to find the best tacos in Riverside. So here I am, writing about my latest taco-journey. In one of my brilliant, most likely late-night, taco-revelations, I concluded that what makes a taco great is the combination of the perfect tortilla, meat, and sauce - Taco T.M.S. How does El Ojo de Agua rank in the taco TMS challenge? [Tortilla] - homemade and pressed just before serving. The tortilla is delicious. [Meat] - After having tried their asada, al pastor (pork), and birria (braised beef), I can only recommend their asada. [Sauce] - That red sauce they serve is out of this world. I asked to take the remaining sauce home b/c it wanted to have some more later with tortilla chips. It's spicy to the moon-and-back but sooo delicious. Overall, great asada taco. I had to request some extra cilantro and onion b/c they are a bit shy on those, but the employee was kind enough to give us a whole plate. The area is a bit sketchy -- definitely not located in the best part of Riverside. The restaurant is a bit run down with flies buzzing around and things not wiped down cleanly -- but it's a 'hole in the wall' place, which means that as long as their food is amazing, I am willing to overlook some of these other sub-par elements. For it being such a run down place, I was shocked to find out that each taco is $2.29. Sure, it's not as small as some of the other street tacos I've had, but $2.29 adds up quick. Also, if you are dining in, you just walk in and take a seat -- someone will be there to take your order. It does take a while for your food to come out, so you have to be willing to wait. Lastly, they do charge 50 cents to all debit/credit card transactions, so I would say to bring cash unless you don't mind the extra charge. Not the best, but the taste of the tacos guarantees this place pretty high up in the TMS challenge!
(4)Hyo P.
I was craving some soup in the morning. I saw their birria and gave it a try. I tried menudo before so flavor was familiar. Man! Their tortilla and soup were pretty good! Salty, spicy and sour all together! It's addicting after you get used to it. I tried their tortas too. Bread became little soggy on one side but it went well with the soup. I never tried this place in my entire UCR life. It was worth the try! I'm coming back for sure!
(4)Jack G.
Great authentic from scratch Mexican food , looks like a hole in the wall , but great tasting food. Moved to riverside and I was looking for a great hand made Mexican food and guess what I found it at this place.
(5)Esther M.
The food here is delicious!!! Authentic Mexican food! There's a lot of places to eat around this area of riverside and this place got them beat! It's a little pricy but you won't complain once you start eating! The service here is great and fast!
(5)Stephanie C.
Came here for breakfast with husband and sister. Ordered chilaquiles and an "ojo de agua" to share. We were told it was a combination of all the different fruit juices blended into a large cup. What we weren't told, was the 6 tablespoons of sugar heaped into the drink :O The drink came out overly sweet for our taste, we probably would request less or no sugar added in the future. The meatless chilaquiles was good, albeit a little salty. Each plate came with a side of to over easy eggs. We were full through lunch, despite sharing our plates and drink.
(4)Angie A.
The ladies who work here always show their emotions....if they're having a good day or bad day TRUST ME YOU'LL NOTICE! I got there at 830pm knowing they close at 9pm. My order would've been simple. 3 tacos de asada. Instead, I walk in and the same grumpy ass short lady turns and yells "ya esta cerrado" (were closed) WTF
(1)Cristina H.
I come here at least once a month... The huaraches are to die for!!! The absolute best! Seating area and looks a bit run down but the ambience and service make up for it big time.
(4)Ashley Y.
Not in the best location but the food was very authentic and did not disappoint. I ordered the Zarapos which was super flavorful and delicious!
(4)Ernie G.
Wow!! Maybe THE BEST Mexican Food I have ever eaten (outside my Grandma's house!?) and that is saying a lot!! Took my Mama here for a post-Mother's Day lunch & it blew away our expectations!! The Menudo is Amazing, Tacos are made w/ Homemade Corn Tortillas & have a slice of Avocado (which makes them even more Sabroso!!) & waitress suggested a Huarache made of Chicharones and it was Mouth-Watering!! I'm so glad I don't live in Riverside because I'd eat here EVERY Day if I did & gain 20 lbs in a week!! I HIGHLY recommend this place!!
(5)Adam B.
Great food! This place is not your typical Mexican restaurant. The food is very authentic and delicious. Most of the names of the food cannot even be pronounced by those who are from the IE. Don't worry, they have pictures. Tlacoyos was the first thing I tried. It was awesome. It's like a giant sope. Don't be scared it's good. Street Tacos are good and the tortillas are made fresh. Try them, but at $2.25 a piece, it's pricy. I also tried The Pelangocha. It's like a giant meat quesadilla sent straight from heaven. When ordering the meat you should probably stick with the carne. It's good. If I was from Mexico I would be saying, "just like back home." Please, don't let the drug dealers and prostitutes walking the streets outside chase you away. Stop on in for a different kind of treat!
(4)Stephen J.
This restaurant has a prejudice staff. I went in with my lady,I ordered a all meat but it to and she got rice beans and meat w\tortillas. She got hers and I got nothing. $14 and I got burned. They acted like they didn't understand me. They understood my lady. We spoke English. These people aren't american friendly. They do good business daily but they don't like the black man. They kept looking at me behind the counter and talking. In closing I say :FUCK THESE BITCHES. NEVER GET MY MONEY AGAIN. FRIENDS DONT WASTE UR TIME. GO TO UNIVERSITY AND CHICAGO NEXT TO FOOD FOR LESS. They don't deserve a star......
(1)Heather W.
The food is good...service isn't so great but food makes up for it. Very authentic taste, there is one waitress who is always on it and always remembers us, brings my daughter rice and beans before we even order which is sweet. Hands down best horchata!
(4)Nicole C.
Small family business serving authentic Mexican food. Huarache, Mulita, Sincronisada, Babucha, and lots of other menu items you won't find in an Albertos. Fast and friendly service. Delicious food.
(4)Francisco H.
Terrible service, overpriced food, and mediocre food. I swear 8$ for a torta and 13$ for tacos dorados. Easy pass go some where else !! Lady's are rude and slow ! Worst food experience of my life!
(1)Cristela J.
If you are looking for truly authentic good Mexican food, thus is the place. I've been here several times and have never left disappointed. Must try barbacoa de borrego tacos (bbq lamb) absolutely amazing!
(5)Brett A.
Do not come. Below average food and Absolutely terrible service. I spoke to my waitress in Spanish because she did not speak English and she pretended to not understand me because I'm white
(1)America O.
The food was awesome the best tacos homemade tortillas a (+) loved it I'm going back !!!
(5)Zoe O.
Yummy yummy yummy! If you are looking for authentic Mexican food, this is the place to go! I have eaten at many Mexican restaurants and this one is one of the best. I got the sopes which are hard to find at most fast foodie like restaurants. They were perfect, I wish they would have had the cotija cheese on it but nonetheless it was quite tasty. The salsa verde is full of flavor. Definitely will return!
(4)H. N.
Best carne asada tacos in town...the handmade tortillas they make onsite are amazingly fresh, thick and delicious! Muuuuust come back!
(5)Celinda A.
Here for the handmade tortillas and oh yeah they are good. U can tell just by looking at em! Getting el pastor, chicharon and carne asada taco plate. 3 per plate. I Recommend the chicharon taco. I see that some think it's really greasy here, but what I ordered wasn't. It came with spicy carrot garnishments (Idk what that's called) and salsa. I love that. I don't really like getting up and self-serving at the condiments bar. I like them to just bring everything that I need. I would def return and suggest others try the chicharon tacos. Paid an additional .50 for using my debit card, btw.
(4)Victor C.
This place isn't bad but definitely not the best ive had and their food is kinda pricy. I drove by this place a bunch of times before i finally came in. The food was just ok. Idk if ill be back. There are a lot of other great Mexican food restaurants literally with in walking distance from here that id rather go to. This place wasnt bad at all i just expected more.
(4)Ed G.
There is a reason no one is here for breakfast. Indifferent service. Tasteless food.
(1)Bryana C.
This place is stupid good and it's cheap... every time we come to riverside we go here... the food is made to order and everything is fresh... the salsa I'd hot and yummy we have been going here for years and everything is tasty
(5)Nick B.
If I close my eyes while I'm taking a bite of a pambazo at Ojo de Agua, I could swear that I was back in Mexico City, on some indistinguishable street corner in Iztapalapa having a quick snack while taking a break from the traffic. This is typical (but above average) street food estilo chilango -- and it is with those offerings that they really shine. Don't waste your time here with burritos, enchiladas, or things that you could get at any other small Mexican restaurant in Riverside. If you're craving a tlacoyo, pambazo, huarache, quesadilla con huitlacoche, or some barbacoa estilo Texcoco, this is the place to go -- and if you aren't familiar with those staples of Mexico City street food, this is one of the best places in SoCal to try them.
(5)Mario D.
Horrible service long wait for food it came out one at a time which I hate. But the food was good.
(3)Mike P.
Very very sad, at 8am I ordered the carnetas PLATE to go. Upon taisting it I realized that my carnitas was not from today and microwaved. Do you think people can not tell when you dry out day old meat in a microwave? If I wanted microwaved food I would have done it myself and not paid 13 dollars for it. I am very offended and will not be waisting any more of my money at your establishment!
(1)Oulie T.
The dude that's at the counter is super happy to have u eat at his restaurant. He is eager for your business and wants to make sure you enjoy your food. I love his enthusiasm. I frequent his uncle's place in San Jacinto on the weekends(the restaurant is a small chain) and I am a huge fan of the barbacoa(lamb) tacos. I've never had them here but I have had the carne Asada tacos and al pastor. I would have to agree with fellow reviewers that the food here is on the greasier side of the spectrum. The meat at the other location isn't as greasy and so that's why they get docked a star here. I really would love to frequent this restaurant more as they feature home made corn tortillas, which I have a current addiction too, and offer lots of unusual regional Mexican food like huitaloche which is considered a "Mexican truffle" but my tastebuds which have an aversion to greasy food may not let me. In the Riverside area considering all the Mexican options this place stands out and is unique. I will stop by here again hoping that on my next visit they change their ways and that I will be served less fatty food. Get tips from your uncle! His food is yummy and healthy tasting.
(3)Erie A.
The only reason why they get 2 stars because the food is real Mexican food. IHOP if full of families and children, and this place specializes serving single men because the waitress's didn't care for the request to bring out food early for two one-year-olds. They also charged full price for a side dish they shared. No wonder why I saw no families there.
(2)Anne R.
Service is average but the authenticity of the food is great they have amazing homemade tortillas. It is small so if the place is packed you have to order to go which is the downside because Mexican food is best warm
(4)Bella G.
Bad customer service. The lady overcharged and did not give a receipt. Food gave my dad a stomachache. The enchiladas my sister had were poorly made. We will not return.
(1)Baldemar G.
The food is good service fukn terrible hate their service especially the one is on the register long face
(1)Matthew K.
The best most authentic Mexican food I have ever eaten! This place is amazing . I got the carnitas plate and everything tasted so amazing. I cannot wait to return next time I pass through riverside!
(5)Kristine S.
Homeade tortilllas. The food was very fresh, so it took a little while. You might not want to go on your lunch hour. They were generous with portions, have a few items on the menu I have never tried, such as chorizo y papa quesadilla and a few more. Worth going back. They offered my baby rice and beans for free. That was nice.
(4)Cassie A.
The food all looked delicious! The wait was long, and i got a belly ache soon after. It would all have been better if i got my food quicker and have no belly ache. Too bad i was all excited thar i had finally found a place with tons of Mexican dishes. Such a bummer!!
(1)April N.
You know a place is good when you can't stop thinking about it a day or two like the morning glow after a really good one night stand. Stopped here on our way back from a road trip to get chilaquiles, which did not disappoint-tortillas crispy, sauce super flavorful and spicy, eggs cooked perfectly over medium, topped with fresh crumbled cheese. My boyfriend also ordered some sort of quesadilla picadillo with ground beef and cheese filling and it was amazing. Salsa here is no joke! When they say it's spicy it's in a non-gringo sense of spicy but an authentic freakin spicy. I've never had anything like it before. Crunchy on the outside and soft and chewy on the inside shell like an empanada on steroids. Definitely will be back if I'm ever in the area again. I half wish I hadn't discovered it because now I crave this distinctive Oaxacan Mexican cuisine and it's not easy to find amidst the generic SoCal Mexi fare that is more prominent in this region.
(5)Candice T.
Best tortillas hands down. The tortillas are hand made. They are sooooooo yummy! Everything is really delicious. You can't go wrong with the asada tacos. Make sure you squeeze some lime on them and top it with the red salsa. Mmm mmm good! Lol I've also tried the sope and chicken enchiladas. All of which are thee bomb! :D This place really is a hidden gem. So don't pass it up! Ohhhh and don't forget to get a drink! Whether its the jugos naturales en agua, horchata, jarritos or a good old fashioned botella de coca cola, hecho en Mexico; you must get one of the above to accompany your meal :)
(5)Doug F.
This my second time here forgetting that I had been here before. I'll start by saying that they have a really good Jamaica drink- just the right amount of sweetness. Ordered a chicharon quesadilla and had I known it was going to be fried, I would have not ordered it, but nonetheless, it was good. I also ordered a carne asada guarache based on all of the ratings. Tbh, it was just okay, but when I started eating the carne asada by itself, it was delicious. If I do come back here, I will definitely just get some carne asada and tortillas by itself. Oh, but let me add why I'm just giving it a 3 and not a 4- I was told to sit at a table in which they hadn't bussed yet. When my food came, they just took the old plates off and didn't wipe the big mess. I was cool with it because I was hungry and ready to eat. Definitely not a place that would be at the top of my "must go back" list. Hope this helps.
(3)Christina C.
Located near University of Riverside. I would consider this a sort of Mexican "mom and pops joint". Like other reviewers mentioned, it is not a place you just drop by and pick up some quick food that has been sitting there for hours. It is best to come prepared to sit and be waited on, and wait about 10-15 minutes for your order. However they did hand us a take out menu on our way out and mentioned we could call in advance and they will have it made by the time we come. Their corn tortillas are truly unique and something you MUST try. It's not the meat, or toppings that make a huge difference but the tortillas are so fresh and soft/crispy at the same time. Hard to explain until you try one. The salsa they make is handmade of course and feel like a perfect amount of spice. The meat was definitely NOT dried out and you could tell it was cooked to order. I had the Huarache (to me basically looked and tasted like a big sope...DELICIOUS)...and a carne asada taco. This isn't a place where quantity is needed, they are very generous with their portions. I was full after half of my Huarache and the taco. I hear the chilaquiles and el menudo are out of this world here, so will have to try that next time. They make a lot of fresh fruit juices on the weekends especially so drop by.
(4)Ryan C.
I came here the first time with my friends and the generosity of this restaurant was so pleasant. A woman served us complimentary chips and the food itself is distinguishably exquisite. After many months, my friends and I still continue to visit for lunch and/or dinner on weekends. This place is definitely worth the money and time. I personally enjoy the enchiladas, tacos, menudo, taquitos and the horchata. There are no bathrooms; however, there is. Burger King right next door so it's not a problem.
(5)mary f.
Too bad I didn't get to try it. Been waiting 40 minutes for my gordita and agua fresca. I am leaving now with cobwebs in my belly.
(1)Ric E.
The food, outstanding. The service, horrible. There is no organization here. We didn't have an established waitress. It was whomever we had to flag down. Our water cups were empty half the time there and it was 110 in the Riverside heat. If you eat here you must be able to tolerate flies as they are abundant. How they have an "A" rating is beyond me but like they say, " The hole in the walls have the best food." The menudo was so flavorful but we were left unattended for so long. There are only about 10 booths in this establishment so there shouldn't have been a problem getting decent service. I'd go back but with the mindset of having horrible service and great food. Give and take I suppose.
(2)Tays T.
Came by for lunch the other day. Seems like a family owned business. Service was friendly. I called in a few days ago, and the person who picked up the phone didn't speak English...my Spanish came in handy. That's how you know it's authentic! I ordered the Alambre. Took a while for everybody's food to come out, but understandable as everything was made fresh. It was definitely worth the wait. The tortillas were clearly handmade...super fresh! I tasted eggs in the tortillas. The carne asada inside was well flavored and the cheese, onions, and bell peppers put it all together. The Alambre, to me, was basically a Mexican crepe. It was huge too! I only ate half...boxed the other half for dinner. The horchata came in a huge cup...too much sugar for me to finish. I'll be back!
(5)Julio G.
the dough for the tortillas is exposed if you look over the grill (flies and dust maybe even roof leaks) no bathroom? you eat with your own clean hands. no hand cleaner station in sight. the waiters handle money and jump in the kitchen touching your food. The food was cold. even while starving the waiter took her time. ill be back I forgot my writing pad.(seriously two persons orders...dede-dee.) The only clean table was outside bench. four people trip over each other to stick their hands in our plate, the silverware had finger stains.TWO of them walked outside grabbed the door handle(the most germ-full thing) then helped in the kitchen to prep our plate. I was starving and suggested we walked out down to BK next door. even with starving hunger the food was not tasty or apealling. Don't trry the ALAMBRE name sounds like it looks beat up food . (or scraps mixed bacon ham and meat with whatever they have on the table.) the burrito I asked for was a spoon full of meat and rice? it could have been better with beans instead and no onions, NOT AN OPTION The lady behind the counter doesn't care. Besides like D###g F. youll forget and come back again. total wait for food semmed like 19 minutes
(1)Robert C.
This is one of those mexican food joints on University that you feel you've been to a dozen times. It looks like a lot of the others, but when I finally went there, it blew my mind. First, the servers knew very little English, but that wasn't too big a deal. The dishes were clearly labeled, and the food was superb. Fresh, home made tortillas, fresh salsa. Food took a while, but we didn't mind. This is a sit in joint, even though you cab get family dinners to go. Every thing was probably the best I had had since moving back down to SoCal. If you don't mind working out your Spanish, or pointing at menus, go here. Don't waste time on rice and beans for filler, eat the damn food.
(4)Darshan W.
Definitely the best Mexican food I've had in Riverside! It has that authentic taste and the people that work there are very friendly and helpful and the prices are really really good! They have a pretty big selection to choose from!
(4)Kevin W.
Great authentic Mexican that covers the stuff the other places don't have. It is a small "hole-in-the-wall", family run place. You don't come for the ambiance or decor. You come for the food. They specialize in the non-standard Mexican dishes and leave the standard items to other places.
(4)Yahaira P.
highly reccomend. small restaurant. great for lunch time. everyone there is really friendly; and the food is authentic.
(5)Antonio B.
Man.... This place was amazing. Menu full of Mexican food dishes I never heard of but can't wait to go back and try them all.. Had the pelangocha it was cooked to perfection! Definitely a hidden gem that I'm mad I didn't know about in my first two years here in Riverside. Will definitely be a regular!
(5)Carla H.
Amazing food!! Authentic mexican food and mostly made with fresh, handmade tortillas. My favorite was the quesadilla with Rajas con queso. I can't wait to go back!!
(5)David R.
I read the reviews so we had to try it out. It was just okay. Was not Impressed with the food or service. We will try other Mexican restuarants in the area.
(3)Sonia R.
NOW THIS IS WHAT I CALL AUTHENTIC MEXICAN FOOD !!!! With hand made tortillas ,the birria is delicious ,tastes just like my grandmas cooking !I think i've tried almost everything .I love the refreshing natural waters that the have ,my favorite is the pepino water !!!!oh yes on a hot day ,that water is very refreshing...I also love how the employees are very welcoming, My husband and I eat here about every other week on our day off since we travel from wilmington ca!!!! Definitely recomend it!!!
(5)Lupita A.
Green chilaquiles were decent; added carne asada which was really good; beans were also good. Red chilaquiles were super spicy; husband likes spicy & red sauce made him sweat. Didn't realize Chilaquiles came with 2 eggs -- waitress didn't ask how we wanted eggs; they were cooked hard....I prefer over easy (runny)! Green salsa was tasty. Chilaquiles were nothing special; tortilla strips looked like store bought tortilla chips. Ordered agua de pina & horchata (too sweet for me but perfect for my husband). Alambre looked really good; might go back just to try it. Total for 2 orders of chilaquiles both with carne asada & 2 aguas = $25.00
(3)Ninji K.
This place is sooo good. Their salsas are incredibly tasty and their carne asada tacos are to die for. Huaraches are also delicious! Gave it four stars because they are over priced. If you have the extra money to spend then I definitely recommend. But not a good place to go on a budget. My dad ordered lots of meat and tortillas to go for a party and they charged $1 a tortilla!!
(4)Julie B.
Omg the food here is delicious. First time here and had a sope and 2 Carne asada tacos. The tortillas are hand made and they're sooo good! I almost cried the first bite I was that happy!
(5)F H.
Beware of overcharges. The menu you order from is different from the one they use for charging you. This is actually very dishonest and illegal. Who knows how long they have been doing this. I had to ask for 5 dollars back from overcharging. Ask them to let you keep the menu after you place your order so when you pay you can see the real price. Otherwise, they will show you the other menu with the higher prices. Food is not that good either.
(1)Aimee S.
Yummy food. Many items that American Mexican restaurants rarely have (huaraches, flor de calabaza). Friendly staff. You don't come to a place like this for the decor anyway.
(5)Josue R.
Mom and Pop Restaurant kitchen. Handmade tortillas and more, really good fresh food and the service is great. Prices are good. Had a "Cubana" Torta, really good recommendation from the guy making it. Good real Mexican food. Clean interior and reminded me of the restaurants in Guadalajara. They claim it's healthy Mexican food, I didn't see that but it is good.
(4)Alex H.
This is my favorite Mexican food place. Hands down. Love the Carne Asada Burrito here; their made to order tortillas are great.
(5)Azarett T.
Well other than their very slow service, I have to give this place 1 star, because it was at least edible. Although their tortillas might be good because they are handmade, everything else was not too great.. Im not judging this place on their lunch menu, but their breakfast is terrible. The menudo was overly seasoned, barely able to enjoy, and their chilaquiles cannot even be called chilaquiles! It was more like a bunch of chips smothered in a (not so good) green salsa and two Sunnyside up eggs on the side..Last time i checked thats not how chilaquiles are made. If your planning on coming to El Ojo de Agua (what kind of name is that!) I suggest you don't get the menudo or chilaquiles. (Aqui no la hasen!)
(1)Elizabeth M.
I believe I may have found my new favorite Mexican place in Riverside. There is nothing in that menu that I would not try.
(5)Tony N.
Went this morning and it was best decision we could have made. The good was delicious. We tried various plates and some tacos! My family and I enjoyed everything. Best part are the handmade tortillas. Highly recommend this place! My new crack spot!
(5)Theodore K.
Holy Cannoli, this place may not look like much but sit down shut up and eat and you will never regret stepping through the door. It's far down University Ave, but its worth the drive. The only thing: eat first, then be the judge. Been here a few times and it's not your typical Mexican food joint. They didn't come to fool around and satisfy your late night burrito craving, they came to feed you. This is much more of a sit down place as opposed to take out. They do plates and trust me, you'll want to take your time eating. Try the Pelangocha if you've never been here: steak, bacon, avacado, bellpeppers cheese and so much other goodness. The Alambre is pretty similar, so try that as well. Something new I've discovered is their Pambezo: oh mama. It's like a wet burrito, but a wet TORTA whaaaattt? Knife and fork that, don't use your hands! A friend also always gets the actual "Ojo De Agua" which is much like a strawberry and banana kind of shake with cinnamon on top. Pretty delish and it comes in a huge cup. Come on, the place is called "Ojo De Agua". Try it. Some comments: I've been here when there's less people and the woman waitressing did not have very good english. It took a bit of time to communicate with here, but I managed to order. I went recently at a busier time and they had more young people bussing and waiting tables and we ordered just fine. I'm sure their much more used to frequent Spanish speaking customers, which is understandable. Also you might be wondering, where the heck are all the yelp reviews if this place is legit? I'm pretty sure the families that come here could care less about what yelp says. They know what's up. This is authentic food and it's also very affordable! Great service when I went recently, they also give discounts to students. Get outside your comfort zone and give it a try! They also take card and cash.
(5)Lorraine C.
Amazing food, amazing atmosphere, amazing workers! The tortillas are to die for. It all tastes authentic and I love this place (ps. I'm Hispanic and my grandma can cook, I know good Mexican food!)
(5)Matt R.
This was the best authentic Mexican restaurant that I have ever ate at. The food was on point! The service was top notch! Good prices and great decor! Oh, and they have homemade corn and flour tortillas! It a must-go for any real foodies or just a casual diner! Enjoy!
(5)Celina N.
Hand made tortillas are delicious! This place serves real home made Mexican food! The food has real flavor. Definitely coming back soon. The horchata, cucumber water and cantaloupe waters were very refreshing and tasty.
(5)Stewie G.
Its really good. When i eat here i feel like i am in Mexico. The food taste authentic. No drawbacks and i will go back.
(4)Jason K.
Almost EVERYTHING is good, except when you ask to get their carrots to go. One time I had to pay 5 dollars for the largest amount of carrots... And one time I was served some old pickled carrots that didn't taste so fresh, and very little of those carrots... like literally 5 carrot slices, on a plate, and there were 6 slices of jalopenos... I went here about 10 times... It's consistently great, food wise, though the service usually late at night, tend to not be so good... Other than that, it's supposed to be a 5/5. If it weren't for miscommunication due to understanding only some basic English words, and some small mishaps and personal issues, I do not believe I should be talking about.
(4)Mary Lee M.
Magnificent. I'm from Chicago and Rick Bayless would love the huaraches. Wonderful. My Spanish isn't that great so I ordered a fresh fruit drink based on reviews. It was way too large and a little too sweet for my taste. I would have liked a smaller version and less sweet. But, soooo fresh! No points off as this is a translation issue not quality. Service is relaxed...not a fast food place. Sit down and enjoy. :)
(5)Cindy A.
The handmade tortillas make everything taste better! This place is amazing by far one of my very favorite authentic Mexican restaurants in Riverside
(5)David S.
Hand made tortillas, different and great fresh fruit drinks daily (had cucumber today), squash blossom quesadilla and the ground beef & potato quesadillas are very good. A little greasy. Employees are great even when the owner's not there.
(5)david a.
Great authentic mexican not watered down commercial mexican cooked with love will be back over and over.
(5)Winkyface F.
Honestly, I cannot recall what I ordered (the name)....I had to do the awkward point and order thing (or moreso watch as my friend did so for me). But have no fear, having returned a few times. EVERYTHING IS FABULOUS. I have tried about 6-8ish dishes and all were o inducing. Seriously. The location is okay, it is right next to Delias (if you have never heard of this fine establishment, then FOR SHAME), and it is decorated well.....like a run down greasy burger joint from the 80's. The people that operate this joint are great! Although most may not speak English, there was always someone ready with a recommendation. Overall, the prices are cheap and the food is authentic. MUY NOM. For some reason I nearly forgot. The corn tortillas. Heaven, they make them there (you can watch them sometimes) and they taste so fresh. Make sure you get to try one. Or four. Now I am hungry
(5)David S.
Very different taste of Mexican. Very authentic. Hand-made tortillas. I personally prefer their tacos. Service is a little slow, their horchata was WAY too sweet for me, but their guavaba (guava) drink was very good. Some of the time I'm there the waiter only speaks Spanish and no one else is available, so I have to point to the menu and use the few Spanish words I know to place an order. They've got me hooked, though. I love Mexican food
(5)Don L.
Great I had the birria and was great only thing was it was made from beef not really the old fashion way but it is still great everything we had was awesome and don't forget to get the fruit flavored water!!! (Agua fresca)!!!
(5)O S.
The owner goes out of his way to make sure you are satisfied. Friendly staff. The food is very authentic. Like someone else mentioned, they specialize in authentic dishes like quesadilla de calabaza, huaraches, birria, menudo (by the way, one of the best menudo I've had). The handmade tortillas top everything. Highly recommend this place.
(5)Eddie V.
This place is one of the most authentic Mexican food joints that I know in the Inland Empire. Sure, you can't go wrong with carne asada fries at Gilberto's. But when you got that craving for some legit Mexican food (none of that Del Taco/Taco Bell crap), this is the place to go. Portions are good, salsa is always fresh, and the people who own the place are very friendly. Don't be intimidated by the fact that it's located in the Eastside, just go and give it a try. UCR students get a discount/hookup too.
(4)James O.
I have always passed by this place smelling the food seeping into my car and thinking damn that smells good so the other night I stopped in and they have such an assortment of food and things ive never heard of,tho they have tacos and burritos, I order the Carne asada burrito and DAMN it was huge the meat was perfect with such flavor im will diff be going back great food
(4)Rafael R.
This place at first the srrvice was really good thats when they first opened but then it got really bad service and food not so great my last visit was really bad it was simple but never got my order served so I just left my friend ate menudo he like it but not that great and I ordered a fruit salad that never got to my table :-( that was my experience there
(1)David N.
Service was slow for a Sunday night. It took a half hour to get two sodas, only after our food came. Carnitas was dry. Rice was cold. Beans lacked flavor. Had to salt everything extra to taste anything. Salsa was good though. Very spicy.
(2)Ed J.
After driving by this place many times, I finally stopped for dinner. I'm always in search of a good Mexican restaurant and I always see Mexicans eating here so I thought that was a pretty good indicator, and it was! The service was very good and the food was great! I don't even know what I ordered because most of the things on the menu I'd never seen before and are written in Spanish so I asked the friendly waitress and she pointed out a few things and I picked one with carne asada in it with some peppers and onions. Was it ever good! The salsa, red and green were fantastic and I'm really looking forward to going back. It's only 2 miles from my house so I'm in luck. The food came out in a timely manner, I didn't expect it right away and if you want fast food, go to a fast food place. But when I go to a place like this I'm glad it takes the time it takes to prepare a fresh meal. If you're ever looking for a good place to eat, give this place a try.
(5)Sophia C.
A hidden gem in Riverside. This place is delicious! I don't even know what I ordered, but on the menu, it's the beef dish near the bottom of the right corner when you open the menu. It was a mixture of beef, cheese and veggies all stacked between two pieces of what seemed to be corn tortillas. Whatever it was, it was freaking delicious. The only issue is the language barrier, but if you speak Spanish, you're golden. The ladies are so nice, even though they can't really speak English. At the end of my meal, I ordered some of their dessert--it was a coconut covered something, but it tasted like the caramel delight girl scout cookies. It's very sweet, so if you don't have a sweet tooth, you've been warned. One piece was enough for me to share with someone else, but despite that, the ladies still hooked me up with an extra one for the road. That's a plus in my book :)
(5)Loretta H.
We had them cater our event and everyone loved the food! Everything here is soooo yummy!! We will definently use them again!
(5)Heidi K.
This chain specializes in authentic food, which tends to be heavy. Communication is not comfortable for non-Spanish speaking customers, so I would recommend pointing and nodding a lot if you can't find a friend to translate. You walk up and pay for your meal, then they bring it out for you to your table. The tortillas are handmade. The food is delicious, the portion sizes are very large and the price is rational. I love that they use cotjia cheese, not shredded American or cheddar. They carry soda from Mexico, which is my boyfriend's favorite, as he dislikes the artificial sugar found in American -made sodas. The environment is a little congested, the décor is quirky. I recommend chilaquiles with an over easy egg on top!
(4)Robert C.
I tried the SuperGuarache a beef patty on a plate with a home cooked tortilla or gordita, since it is so thick, with a broiled nopal on top and toppings like avocado, cheese, lettuce and tomato. Delicious meal. I also tried quesadillas with chiles that taste like chile relleno, also very good. The agua frescas are also deicious. I tried the melon and lemonade and Jamaica. I will try the Horchata next time. I can't remember the name of another meal... like a fajita... also on thick home cooked tortilla. Also delicious. Google shows old location. Now next to tire place on NW corner of University and Kansas.
(5)