My friends and I used to love this place but it's changed. The margarittas are now $1 more with less tequilla and more sour. It used to be fun but not anymore.
(1)
Jason S.
Hmm.. I'm still really hungry. Maybe it's because they forgot my appetizer... And they were out of hot sauce! Errrrr.. How does a Mexican restaurant run out of hot sauce?!? They sent the two of us to a table with one chair and made us bug every other table looking for an extra chair. We won't be back. P.s. Bring your own cholula!!
(1)
Megan N.
Couldn't get better mexican food for this cheap ANYWHERE in Denver. Love the huevos rancheros. So good! If you don't like loud busy places then Emilio's is not for you. Really good chips and salsa and their margs are only $1.75 on Thursday through Saturday. Only complaint- i wish they were open later. : ( they close at 9. If you havent been I recommend it. Great for happy hour and a bite! Cheese fries are bomb too!
(5)
Stanly W.
It surprises me to see so many bad reviews. I don't doubt the veracity of the reviewer, but after going to this place several times (it's two blocks away) I'm pretty happy with it. The breakfast burritos are affordable. The green chili is authentic. The portions are gratifying. I'm really big on service. Even if the meal is good, if the service is bad, that ruffles my feathers to the degree where I just won't go back to the place again. No, I'll come home and revel in the scathing review I'll write here on Yelp. I'm big on service because I've been in service, and I know it doesn't kill anybody to smile and say hello to a customer. It doesn't hurt anybody to be patient and try to walk somebody through a menu if they've never been there before or they're unfamiliar with the fare. It's okay to make a friendly recommendation, and most people tend to appreciate the thought, even if they choose something else. The service here has been just fine for me, every time. And the margaritas will kick your butt.
(4)
Kent T.
Rumbled into Emilio's on a rainy night, last weekend. It was packed, wall-to-wall and seemed like a "Mexican Greasy Spoon Joint". We were thinking about leaving, but then an enthusiastic waiter RAN up to us and asked us how many in our party. He then hopped outside, grabbed a table, dusted it off, re-arranged some other tables and made us a spot in a corner. After that, I was impressed.... dude actually WANTED us to eat there. The queso was pretty much green chile with cheese in it, but still damn good. The tacos al carbon were outstanding and was enough for two people. To top it off, they have some nifty drink specials: 1.75 margaritas and a bucket of 5 Coronas for 10 bucks (sadly, you don't get to keep the bucket, so my weekend sandcastle plans were foiled. Blast!). Unlike other happy hour/bargain margaritas around Denver, these actually tasted good! Not lemon-flavored KoolAid with salt and a trickle of bad tequila-- I would've been happy paying 4 bucks for each one.
Thank you to the Yelpers for reviewing this place. I was early for a meeting and hit up Emilio's. I had the 'B' combo plate. I didn't like the chicken taco that much, but the enchilada was on point. The chips and salsa were fantastic as well. The food came out quickly and the service was great. I will be back for some good and fast Mexican food!
(4)
Nick W.
Being from Cincinnati, I find it hard to say "THIS IS THE BEST MEXICAN FOOD EVER!!!" given my lack of experience in the subject matter. That said, I can say "THIS IS THE BEST MEXICAN I HAVE EVER HAD!!!" with 100% confidence. I say this because every item I have had on the menu tastes great to me - that coupled with my love of great service = a great experience. The fact that I know Tony, Sergio and Andrea is a testament to them giving top notch service. Best Dish: Tacos al Carbon with Green Chili and a "Tour of Mexico" beer bucket.
(5)
Erin W.
Not a huge fan of Mexican food, but when I'm in the mood I go to Emilio's. Tony typically works the counter and is sooo nice and Sergio works the kitchen and cooks up great food! One of the best things about the place is that it's on Colfax so it offers great people watching views (seriously it's amazing). You get a free margarita ever Friday during Happy Hour if you purchase one of their shirts AND you have to wear the shirt in the restaurant. So the t-shirt is worth the price if A. you like margaritas and B. plan on going to Emilio's frequently on Friday's. If you haven't tried it, you should give it a whirl!
(4)
Derek W.
We have driven past this place so many times and always say "We need to try that place". Finally did a couple weeks ago and went back for a second time last week. This place is great! The food definitely tastes good, the staff very friendly and attentive, and the margarita happy hour.... who can pass that up! Great food, great prices, great place!
(5)
mellany c.
First.. I had a breakfast burrito.. It was alright.. But one, I'm still starving.. And two.. What kind of mexican restaurant runs out of hot sauce... When they're only have full??? I wait around for hot sauce.. My waitress seemed to disappear into the abyss.
(1)
BA M.
Some of these reviews are funny. Can't please some people. I'm a native and grew up in North Denver before the Yuppie implosion, so I know how rare it is to find decent mexican food. Yes, there are better places, but none so close to downtown. Benny's has ALWAYS been a joke, and anything comparable is either too far, or too expensive, or just not all that. As someone who works downtown, I'm grateful to have a place close for takeout.... That being said, it defies common sense why they don't cater to a late-night crowd. They have a liquor license and close before 10 p.m., when most of us freaks don't even go out before 11. They better change their ways with the new expansion... P.S. I still miss the Walnut Cafe.
(4)
Henry G.
I wanted to add an update to my last review. Emilio's has become one of my fav Uptown breakfast stops because they open at 8am. And I agree with Megan who said the huevos rancheros are so0o good!. I'm an early riser, so when I wake up hungry on the weekend, I can't wait until 10am for Brunch. Emilio's is open early and they serve great breakfast dishes both American style and Mexican style. Low prices, good food and a serving so large you'll not be hungry again till 2 pm.
(3)
Mr. T.
Is the food the best? no. Is the service the best? Probably not, but not terrible either. Knowing all that, I still find myself drawn to this place. It's a fantastic place to stop before a concert. Cheap strong margs and burritos. If they raise prices, I may not return. Gotta have the margaritas though. My friends and I have developed a sort of dilemma with this place though. If we start our night here, we don't remember the end of the night. Enjoy!!!
(5)
Brandt W.
There's nothing more comforting when I drive North down Logan Street across Colfax than seeing that huge green and black banner still hanging outside of this hole in the wall, diamond in the rough. "What does the banner say?", you curiously ask. [MARGARITAS $1.75 THURS-SAT 4PM-CLOSE] "$1.75?!?... No way, that must be a misprint or something dude!" Negative. Not only is it correct, but they somehow continue this amazing deal even though they have clearly made a name for themselves. Now, I don't know how long Emilio's has been in business, but I do know that most assume $1.75 margaritas have to be as cheap and generic as they come. Again, those people would be wrong. These margaritas are really good, and there's little skimping on the tequila too. No skimping at all actually. What's more, the food is as good and inexpensive as the margaritas, allowing for a person to get 2 steak tacos ($2.50 each) and 2 margaritas for under $10. Did I mention those 2 steak tacos can actually be made into 4 steak tacos given the double tortilla they make them with? Add the basket of chips and very good salsa (spicy), and that's quite a steal. Oh and their breakfast burritos are some of the best I've had in Denver. There are a few negative aspects of dining at Emilio's that I do need to point out though. Afterall, dinner and drinks that cheap have to come at a price, right? 1. It is on Colfax and not exactly the greatest area of Colfax, so... it's on Colfax. 2. The service is rarely even adequate, thus you have to be patient. The owner/manager is a really friendly guy though. 3. Bathrooms are weak and dirty 4. It's really small - not a great place for large groups. I'd suggest 4 at most so you're not cramped and waiting 5. First basket of chips is free, but they charge you after that. When did this become an accepted practice?! I feel like it randomly sprouted up at every Mexican restaurant one day and I don't like it at all. 6. Emilio's will slip one by you with "add-ons". They'll ask if you want your entree or dish with cheese, etc. and then will charge you extra for it. I think cheese goes for something like $.75 7. They like to close early - 9-9:30ish, so you'll start to get some looks and even less service as that time approaches. 8. They are not open on Sundays. Overall, I say the food and margs outweigh the bad, so go ahead and give it a try.
(4)
Ashley N.
AMAZING chorizo and potato tacos!!! Will definitely be back and will tell everyone about this Colfax gem!
(5)
M A.
It's hard to find vegan mexican food that's at least somewhat authentic tasting. Emilio's offers a potato taco plate that can be made vegan with no cheese. I've only lived in Denver since December but this is hands down my favorite mexican restaurant. Super cheap food and margs ($1.75 during happy hour!) fun atmosphere, great service and they're open late!
(5)
Don C.
Best Mexican food I have had outside Tucson! Prices were excellent , staff was cheerful and attentive. At a Technology conference and will try to go back while i am in town. Reccomended
(5)
Geenie C.
Still the best deal in town for amazing carnitas and breakfast burritos. The breakfast burritos are so big they just fold them in half and all for under $5!!!! I have cravings for the carnitas plate and green chili that cannot be remedied unless it's from Emilio's. My one wish is that they were open on Sunday's for those lazy days that need to start off with a big burrito.
(4)
Kate K.
I am here at least every Thursday if not more often and with a group of 5-8 friends. The margaritas are deliciously strong and plentiful and $1.75 on Thursday-Saturday 4pm-9pm. Some say the staff is mean. Some say its waaayyy too crowded. Babies. It is crowded because the staff will never pressure or kick you out (even after close), but you can make reservations, and they also offer take out. The service is quick and the staff tries to get on a first-name basis with their customers. Most importantly though, the food is also delicious, quick, and cheap. Breakfast all day (burritos are awesome). Superb and spicy green chile. Mouth-watering potatoes. Tasty, amazing carne asada. They give you more food than you ever thought was coming to the table because it cost you $2-$6 dollars. The owner (Emilio) is spirited and kind, and sometimes leads a sort of "the wave" with clapping and chanting joyously through the whole restaurant. Its a family, and worth the wait!
(5)
Robert A.
And now, for breakfast: The location used to be home to another breakfast staple: The Walnut Cafe. I was sad to see it go, but relieved to find it now occupied by cheap delicious mexican food. this place has amazing breakfast burritos. Seriously, they're really great and cheap ($4). Egg, potato, green chile and cheese with choice of carnitas (like, always) or chorizo or italian susage or all of it together or none of it all. I am not so sure about the lunch, all i've had the chance to eat is the cheese enchiladas, which should never be a judge...
(4)
Tom R.
Denver has some of the best Mexican restaurants in the nation, this one is really just average and maybe gets an extra 1/2 star just because these is nothing great around the Capitol and this can be a convenient Mexican food fix. The food is a little better than average, and I would agree with the reviewer who talked about the breakfast burritos, they are pretty good and very filling. There is nothing "spicy" here for anyone who likes their food hot like I do, but the chips and salsa are pretty good. HOWEVER, they hose you on this as after the first basket, which is really not that big, they start charging you per basket. They can only get away with this because they are the only game in town for the 2-3 blocks around the Capitol. I would rather they just start by saying $2 for unlimited chips etec...., but because of this, I really prefer getting in my car and going to one of the many "great" places within 2-3 miles of the Capitol. It's a principle thing....in a pinch, this will do, but nothing to "plan" your day around.
(3)
Ryan C.
Great food but not fine dining. P.S. just the right price!
(3)
Tom S.
A tale of two Emilio's. If you partake inside, I've always been able to get seated by the window and had the best cheap margs and mexican food in Denver. Of course you can pay 3 times more and get perhaps 1 times better product but the value ratio speaks for itself. Then there is the outside patio. I've never had a clean experience, the orders aren't right and the service is much slower. The upside to the patio is that it is prime hipster watching territory and you can keep an eye on your scooter. That is all.
(4)
Nicholas ..
$1.75 Margaritas that are strong and delicious! The food is pretty run of the mill Mexican food. Best part is how cheap you can get full and buzzed.
(4)
Amy M.
I am compelled to write a review because I just discovered the place and had a great experience. I would encourage those who wrote reviews a few years ago when it opened to give it a second chance! I went with a group of friends and had the (very substantial!) $1.75 margaritas for happy hour. Wow. Chips and salsa were also good. I did not order any food but my friends did, and I didn't hear any complaints. Overall it has a comfortable atmosphere, good prices, and friendly and attentive staff.
(4)
Thomas S.
Eh? There is really nothing good or bad to say about the place. They deliver what you'd expect. Their salsa was decent. Green chile was good. The burrito was okay. Service was quick, efficient and friend...and not overly sufficating. Overall, it makes a good lunch quickie.
(3)
karen l.
i will never go back here they ignore me few times thats it. there are so many good places to try in capitol hill. besides it is a dirty place.
(1)
C D.
There are many choices when it comes to mexican restaurants in Denver. The kitchen is accomodating and the salsa actually has some heat. Still there is better tasting mexican food for comparable prices.
(2)
Christina H.
Emilio's is a cute little place right on Colfax, but don't let that scare you, it's quite clean inside. It's really cheap and offers pretty good chile, authentic, fast Mexican food. Its a great spot for lunch, though it can get a bit busy. Viva burritos!
(4)
d t.
I show up there at 8am and they're barely open. it is a cool place.The smothered french fries with green chile is really good.So darn tasty: a 14 inch oval plate of good french fries and the lovely green chile on top. I could live on this stuff.This place feels like a family. The light coming in the broad windows facing Colfax light up the place.I just want this place to win.Parking on Colfax is a quarter per half hour-not so bad. P.S. French Fries smothered with gravy reminds me of back east. I read this is a staple of "fine cuisine" in Canada.This dish at Emilio's is a nice approximation.
(3)
Richard R.
Staff, location and margaritas - oh my! For sure the three reasons I keep coming back to Emilio's. You can't beat the price, it's in the hood and I always always always get polite service! First, the employees here are very friendly (and cute for the most part) which goes a long way even when the place is packed and the food takes some time to come out. A friendly employee does a lot to alleviate the wait time. Speaking of food - meh. Being a picky eater when it comes to Mexican food is just how I roll. Hardly anything is as good as Grandma's cooking and this place doesn't come close. Still, it's decent and edible but nothing to call home about. The margaritas are cheap and strong even though you can't really taste the booze. They do a good job of masking the tequila flavor but I know it's in there cuz I get a solid buzz fo sho! Overall I like this place and wouldn't hesitate to go back. A fairly inexpensive time for the amount of food you get. A-OK. Solid. Bueno.
(3)
Leah P.
I'm a big Emilio's fan. Good luck finding anything there that's "light" or "healthy", but if you're prepared to stuff your face with some deliciously fattening Mexican food, you've found the spot. Quality-wise, the food is a couple steps up from other cheap Mexican in the area (I dream about the potato-sausage tacos...), but it's probably pretty bad for you. In the summer, their patio has accommodated some of my weirder interactions with Colfax riff raff, and the people-watching is unparalleled. They do stiff margarita pitchers for a very reasonable price too, making this one of my favorite spots for grub on Colfax.
(4)
Rick N.
I would love to review this place however I was unable to get in. I am disabled and tried to go through the door but could not. So I tried to call to have someone let me in and the phone was busy. So I went around to the window to wave down the bartender when she saw me she turned and walked away. Then I went home and called to complain and spoke to the owner. She said that I was welcome to come back as if it was super easy for me to do. And when I mentioned the phone was busy she said this is a business and they get calls. I said that it must be nice to be able to turn away customers. There are too many other places that know how to cater to all types of clientele unfortunately this not one. I guess it would have been nice to have an apology instead the owner denied the event even happened!
(1)
Faith M.
People. Thursday-Satuday you can get 16oz margaritas for 1.75. I mean do I even need to review anymore. Jeez. I think the food is good but Mexican food isn't something I'm well versed in so if you're really into Mexican food don't take my word for it. The reason I'm knocking them one star is because they close pretty early, like 9, but I probably would too if I was operating a business on Colfax. On the flip side the people watching is amazing.
(4)
Jonathan C.
$1.75 margs.... say what, yes there is a 4 marg limit but just don't act like its your prom night and you wont be turned down. I wouldnt rave about the food but I always split the nachos but you do get FREE!!!! chips and salsa. I suggest next time you're in the neighborhood and say "lets go to a dive bar" try this place out
(4)
Lindsey K.
One of my favorite chili rellenos in Denver, $1.75 margaritas, yes please!
(4)
Alissa R.
In all reality, I don't really need to write about my experiences here-Tiffany W's review pretty much sums it up. It had been years since I ventured into this, and now I remember why. A friend and I were in the area and they had expressed a craving for 'sit down/fast Mexican food' and this is where we ended up. Yes they have those cheap margaritas...err, um if you could even call them that- I, too had to slam mine or forfeit the entire drink cost (it wasn't during happy hour.) Terrible with a capital T. The salsa had some flavor but was riddled with a tad too much salt. My friend opted for a combo of sorts and I got a guacamole tostada with a side of re-fried beans. Everything was bland, so good thing for that salty salsa, we needed it to season everything. On my way to the restroom, I caught a glimpse into the back area where it seems they wash the dishes and it was pretty murky....our server was nice to comp a 2nd bowl of chips and salsa (only the first one is complimentary, beware) but only did so because we ordered a side of sour cream and guacamole, which are a dollar each. I wish I could give it at least one more star but that just doesn't seem fair. Sorry Emilio's.
(2)
Tiffany W.
Oh, man. It's hard to go wrong with $1.75 margaritas ...actually, it's really easy to go wrong with $1.75 margaritas. Good thing they limit four. But for me, the limit was one. And barely. The first thing that came to mind after the first few sips (because I had to be sure) was: "toilet water". Not that I have any idea, but the color... and something about the mixer. It hit me like toilet cleaner water. In the sinuses. Or something. It was awful. So I slammed the first one and that was it. But it's nice to know I still have some principle, price is right or not. The food? Well, something tells me it would have been much better if I'd been able to stomach the margs. The salsa was good; a nice mix with a kick (but not too much), but the chips were almost chewy. Like they hadn't been fried long enough? I ordered the potato tacos because they sounded delish. I was thinking it'd be soft corn torts, but instead it was greasy, more chewy than crispy half-fried (grilled?) corn torts with melty cheese and more grease in potato form. The guac was generous, which I appreciated. The tacos came with rice and beans (standard sides, nothing memorable), and some kind of green salsa. I ate it, but I regretted it afterwards. Total gut bomb. But again, I can see where a following might be forming here (following the booze, that is). Would I eat here again? Maybe. Nothing really to bring me back any time soon, but certainly not the worst place my coworkers could have picked (I'm looking at you--ANYWHERE on the 16th Street Mall...). They won't split checks, so come prepared with cash, or hope your credit limit or account balance will cover the tab and that none of your friends will screw you over by not paying their parts. I'm teetering between two and three stars, but I'm giving three since I don't feel strongly enough about coming back here or not. Conclusion: it's a Mexi-joint on Colfax with $1.75 margaritas. Anything could happen.
(3)
Proteus D.
Came here for a working lunch. I had the Mahi Mahi fajitas. Which were unique and all in all pretty tasty. However way over salted, I had a dry mouth for the rest of the day. I don't eat dairy or meat and so was pretty shocked to discover that the beans were cooked in lard. Errrr....gross. I only found this out when I pushed the waitress to confirm they were meat free. Even though I asked in advance for a non meat / dairy plate.
(3)
Adam H.
I've eaten here twice. The first time I had one of there combo platters. It was your run of the mill smothered plate of random Mexican food items. This last time I had the grilled tacos. I would go back for these. The service is relatively slow but very friendly. I wouldn't drive a long distance to go to this place but if you live in Uptown and are looking for decent Mexican food. It gets the job done.
(3)
D N.
I go here strictly for the breakfast burritos. After a long night of drinking, there's nothing better to set you right the next morning. My favorite is the egg, potato, bacon with cheese. Comes with green chili inside which ads some great flavor. I've never had anything else there, so I'm rating them on the burrito only.
(4)
Kelly T.
I'll admit it. I don't go to this place for the food. I go there for the drinks. More specifically, the $1.75 margaritas they have from 4-9 Thursday through Saturday. Even MORE specifically, the incredibly strong, limit of four per customer, your night is either done or about to take a turn for the very interesting after you reach your limit margaritas. I'm talking walking through the McDonald's drive thru, trying to place an order on foot interesting. They also have really great beer specials for those of you that like a little hops with your burrito. Jim Gaffigan has a bit where he talks about how all Mexican food is all the same: tortilla with meat, beans, cheese and rice. While I don't think this is the case with those amazing hole in the wall taquerias, it is the case with this place. If you want something decent and cheap, come here. And if you want my recommendation, I like the beef tacos. The service is good and you can usually get a seat, though it does get really loud after about 7. They're expanding right now, so they'll be able to seat even more patrons jonesing for one of their sweet, sweet margs.
(3)
Anthony N.
Okay, I've been here about a dozen times now since moving into the Colfax 'hood', and this place has constantly delivered. Not only is it the perfect place for dirt-cheap margaritas, PBRs, and buckets of Corona, you get one of the tastiest, cheapest burritos drenched in green chili sauce that money can buy. And man, are they fan-frickin-tastic good. The place also has a surprisingly large amount of good lookin' customers coming in and out, I've noticed. Maybe it's just the time of day I end up showing my face there, but hawt-damn. Good Mexican with pretty scenery on Colfax? You don't see that everyday.
(5)
Kelsey S.
Went to Emilio's for the first time last night after hearing about good food and cheap margaritas. They offer a special on Monday nights, for $16 you get two combination plates and a liter of margaritas. It was more than enough food and margs to go around! The rellenos were super delicious! As others have mentioned, the ambiance and the staff aren't anything to write home about, but for the prices, you really can't complain!
(4)
Pablo R.
I had hesitated on going to this place for a while but gave it a try anyway. Needless to say this place was great. I had their chorizo and potatoe tacos and they are so delicious. They had great chips and salsa and their margaritas were cheap and very good. I would definitely recommend this place if you are looking for good Mexican food and great margaritas. Not to mention they have 2.25 margaritas from 6-close. The staff is great and always make the customers feel like family. I have been back many many times and have recommended to a ton of my friends of which they all loved it. We are now loyal customers of this restaurant. Check it out and I'm sure you will love it too. Good suggestions: -Chorizo and potato tacos -Grilled tacos with either type Of meat -carne asada plate -fajitas -carnitas plate -mahi mahi tacos -chile relleño plate -basically anything with green chile!!!!!
(5)
Joseph H.
Friendly service, and the best breakfast burrito I've ever had (emilio's special with cheese).
(5)
Will P.
This is a great little gem amid the gross Chinese food, overpriced Burger and brew joints and the....ahem...colorful cast that roams Colfax. The margs SEEM weak at first, but they hit later. I suggest getting green chili with anything you get. It's really good. Finally, I found my own little hole in the wall between my home and my bus stop. No surprise I've been here almost every night in the past three weeks. UPDATE: Because of a few unfortunate visits in recent weeks, I have decided to blackball this place due to poor customer service and downright rudeness on behalf of one singular employee. Until she's gone, I shall not return. Too bad... For them.
(4)
Agi D.
Emilio's is one of those places that never disappoint me. Anything I ever ordered I liked. Even the fish tacos. On Colfax. For cheap. And those margaritas. Can't beat it.
(5)
Ambra G.
I have to be honest here. I am a vegetarian, and these guys nearly killed me with their cross contamination. I was also pregnant in my first trimester experiencing morning sickness when I bit into my worst food nightmare.. a tostada, which was lard free and meat free as all are... I bit in a sunk my teeth into a disgusting huge piece of meat.. steak or pork (which I am allergic to). I knew the texture and immediately spit it out as fast as I could, choking, dramatically gasping and eventually puking into their toilet. It was my first time and the LAST time I will ever go there. Besides, there are roaches all over that place.. I don't care how great their margaritas are or how cool their colfax patio is for people watching. it doesn't mean anything if you are eating poison. DISGUSTINg and DISGRACEFUL. they didn't even offer a solution, just said, oh.. sorry.
(1)
Kristin N.
I went here earlier this summer, about a month and a half ago, and unfortunately did not try the $1.75 Margaritas. I have heard they are the staple for this restaurant. I will probably come back here for just this reason. On the particular occasion I went here, we sat outside on the Patio. This turned out to be a very bad idea, as we were continuously harassed by homeless people. I think in the hour that we were there we were asked for money at least 3 different times. Unfortunately, the close proximity to a shady part of Colfax is what causes this problem. Next time I'll sit inside. I ordered mahi mahi tacos, but was unimpressed when they arrived with simply just mahi mahi and nothing else in them. I mean where was the lettuce, etc.? But, I have to admit that my friend ordered the Chicken Enchilada plate and quite enjoyed it. The service also really sucked this day. It took our waitress so long to bring us our check that I had to go inside and find her. I'm hoping this is not normal, or only attributed to the fact that we were sitting outside. While this review isn't that great, I admit that with the close proximity to my house I will probably go back here. But, next time I'll sit inside, order a cheap margarita, and go with enchiladas. I've heard alot of good reviews, and was sad I wasn't greatly impressed.
(3)
Toni D.
$1.75 Margaritas is awesome! Located right at Colfax and Logan. Since it's right on Colfax it can be quite entertaining watching the people walk by on Colfax. The margaritas are pretty refreshing on a hot summer day. I ordered the ground beef nachos and loved them. Not the best I've had but after a few margaritas they taste pretty darn good. However, I was warned to stay away from the fish tacos and nacho cheese sauce on the nachos. So, make sure to ask for melted shredded cheese. If the weather is nice sit out on the patio and enjoy.. So, my friends warned me they have a 4 drink maximum.. I'm not sure they really keep tracked especially since our bill was not accurate.
(3)
Elin N.
This place is a staple for breakfast burritos. The bacon & egg with potato & green chili. The $1.75 margaritas are a great touch!
(5)
Joseph M.
This place is pretty sweet. I don't think I've ever had a bill over $35 for two people, two entree's and 5 margs. The food is speedy and I really can't find better crispy relleno's anywhere in Denver. I would've given it 5 stars except the service seems to be stellar until you get your food. On numerous occasions it's taken 10-15 minutes to get a server back over once our food has arrived despite empty marg glasses.
(4)
john g.
All of us enjoyed lunch the other day. The crispy tacos were better than average. They should be more generous with the chips because it's a small amount with no free refills (and this was for 3 adults). The service was relaxed but friendly. Would return if I'm in the area and am craving basic Mexican food.
(3)
Carolyn M.
The service at Emilios is not good, especially when the place is packed (which it often is). However, the margaritas are cheap ($1.75) and you should have a nice little buzz after drinking 4 (yes, unfortunately there is a limit). The food was nothing spectacular, but I would order the carne asada for dinner again. The smothered breakfast burritos are where it's at, and likely the reason for my 4-star rating. I'll definitely be back!
(4)
Adrian P.
The 1.75 margaritas are about the only thing this restaurant has going for them. The food sucks and the margaritas were weak. They taste like kool aid mix and no frozen margaritas. Oh and $2 for more chips? I could buy a bag of chips for cheaper. No thank you the place isnt even fancy...ill go somewhere better for mexican food and drinks.
(1)
Scott V.
great service, good food & always a good lunch special. They get the food out quickly here during the lunch rush. The grilled tacos are awesome!
(4)
Carly B.
This place RULES. Had heard about their $1.75 happy hour margarita and wasn't sure if we'd be too late. I figured it didn't matter since if the happy hour price is $1.75, their regular price is probably only like $3 or $4 anyway. The chips and salsa were tasty, just the right amount of spice in the salsa and I didn't feel like I'd have to be taken out on a stretcher after (Lime, I'm looking at you). In fact, even though the salsa was gone long before the chips were, the chips weren't too bad on their own and I usually view the chips as merely conduits for dips. That's saying something. I ordered a couple of ala carte items (guacamole tostada and cheese enchilada) and my friend got the chili rellano plate. Everything came out super fast, warm, and gooey. Now, it wasn't the BEST Mexican food I've ever had, but it surely hit the spot. And that's not the point here anyway. The point is that the service was great. Our server was super attentive and even though the place was packed, they found a chair for a third friend to join us about halfway through for a margarita and they didn't act put out at all. Two meals and five margaritas later, we received the "damage". Twenty-four measly dollars. You can't beat that! Screw Benny's, I'm going to Emilio's from now on.
(4)
Julio T.
Good Mexican food in Denver isn't hard to find. You can almost pick a place at random and find more than adequate burritos with that great green chili pork gravy so common in this city. So Emilio's is only okay and in Denver, okay Mexican food just doesn't cut it. The chili is watery and under-spiced. The beans are thin and taste canned. The meats are just bland. And the place is kind of overpriced: $5+ for just a burrito is a bit much unless its Chipotle big. Yeah, the margaritas are good and well-priced and really in a lot of other cities this place would be decent or maybe even great. But in Denver (even in east Denver), there are many good Mexican restaurants, so I just don't see the need for a mediocre one.
(2)
Frances M.
It's nothing fancy but the food is good and the margs are cheap (especially during happy hour). It's not overly done and that's why I like it.
(4)
Jason W.
Fantastic everything. Cheap drinks and delicious food. The relleno was superb.
(5)
Karl C.
This is a good place in the cap hill area. kinda divey and slow but decent food at a decent price. not much else to say. because of their location gets busy fri./sat. nites.
(3)
Jerad E.
Nice hole-in-the-wall Mexican place. Totally love their cheese enchiladas and the margarita deal cant be beat: $1.75 margaritas! Been here a few times and haven't had any problems with service and the food comes out quick even when the place is packed on a Friday night. Good chips and salsa. My only complaint is they're not open for my Sunday Mexican food cravings.
(4)
Dana R.
To quote my hubbo, "this is good, sloppy Mexican food"...Amen brotha. Go for Combo B. Hungry? Don't panic. Pick up on a Sunday night at 630 should take about 7 minutes!
(3)
Sarah F.
First off, as most of the other reviews have noted, this place has freaking awesome $1.75 margaritas. They limit you to 4, but that's all you need! They are delicious, and decently strong. I ordered a chimichanga with carnitas from here the other day, and oh god it was delicious. Lots of cheesey goodness, plus beans, rice, lettuce, tomato, sour cream and a huge hunk of guac!!! The only thing is, they won't split checks. This is kind of a pain when you go in a group of people, unless you just plan on using cash.
(4)
Felicia F.
I went here in the summer with a friends before a meeting and I didn't really like it. I order a large nacho and the meat and cheese were really watery. My friend also order taquitos and she said they tasted like they didn't have any seasoning in them. I wouldn't recommend this to anyone who like good Mexican. Sorry but I just didn't like the food.
(2)
Jessica D.
The cheap-o (and surprisingly strong) margaritas are what originally brought me into Emilio's, but I actually like their food too. Quick, inexpensive, and tasty! I have a hard time making it over there for breakfast but their smothered breakfast burritos are awesome as well. Unfortunately they're closed on sunday mornings, which is when my breakfast burrito cravings seem to peak hardcore. haha Emilio's is a little on the divey side but not too shabby. I'm not going to say the food here is so good it will change your life, but if you're looking for a quick (and very reasonably priced) plate of mexican food it's tasty and worth the trip. The few times I've been in there they don't seem big on splitting checks for people (not sure if that's the rule or just the server's preference), and I believe they have a credit card minimum of $5 or so. That doesn't seem like a big deal, but that's pretty hard to exceed if you're just getting a single item.
(3)
Amanda P.
Nothing stands out to me for this place. Cheap margs that taste decent. That's all I remember! Everything else was meh.
(3)
Rachel C.
This place is the textbook definition of serviceable. If you're in the mood for some greasy, green-chile laden dinners and cheap margs (ask for extra limes, trust me) you've come to the right place. Menu standouts incude the breakfast burritos- any of them- smothered with cheese, carnitas and eggs, grilled tacos, chimichangas and smothered fries with steak. The servers are friendly but often stretched thin throughout the restaurant and patio, so just keep that in mind when you're trying to get it on that $1.75 weekend marg deal. You get what you pay for, after all.
(4)
Melissa J.
We used to live near them and were regulars enough that they still recognize us. You just can't beat $1.75 margaritas! They're $3 other nights which is still pretty good. Their green chili is some of the best. Sometimes I get a pint to go and pour it over brown rice and chicken at home. The carne asada is amazing, the rellenos are good too. Good enough that I haven't really tried much else. My husband always gets the smothered fries- very indulgent. Now that we've moved farther away we eat at the local Mexican dive and while it's ok, I miss Superchef immensely.
(4)
Nikki K.
CLOSED. Went here and there was a sign on the door that it was seized. Someone walking by said they haven't paid taxes
(1)
Thaddius B.
Nothing super amazing or unique but if your near by and are hungry for some Mexican not a bad choice. The margs were nothing special cheap mix that was too sweet and syrupy for me but for under 2 bucks what do you expect plus I am not a huge marg fan anyway. I have eaten here a couple times and will go back price is right and food is good.
(3)
Beau W.
Another place I stumbled on because of their close proximity to my house. What a great find. They have great happy hour specials. As well as great daily specials for food. An example would be chicken enchiladas for 5 or 6 bucks. 1990 prices! Even if you don't get one of the specials, it is very cheap. I love the steak chimichanga plate. The green chili is really good. The seasoning on the steak inside is perfect. The best part of this place is the salsa. It's the best salsa I have ever had. Normally when I say this, I follow up with "besides mine." Not this time. I wish I could make a salsa like this. Fresh tasting and seasoned perfectly. Best Tex-Mex in town!
(5)
Robin P.
Well hello there $1.75 margarita on Thursday-Saturday nights. I didn't see you sneak up on me so fast, along with your 3 buddies (they limit you at 4 margaritas. At least that's what the sign says, but if you ask nicely... Just saying). Beware. I've left here a few times not knowing where I was going or what my name was. Darn it, tequila. The service is always good I think. They may be starting to recognize me though, but that's how I like it. Usually fast and attentive. Besides the killer weekend happy marg deal, Monday-Wednesday, you can order a pitcher of margaritas, and 2 combination plates for $16 ALTOGETHER. I'm a cheap date. The food here is pretty tasty, and I've tried a lot of things here. My favorite (especially before a night of drinking): CHILI CHEESE FRIES. Can I get an amen for this plate of heaven, piled high with fried potatoes, chunky pork green chili, and copious amounts of cheese? Can I get another AMEN? Say it with me now. They are closed on Sunday, which is a bummer, because sometimes I crave Mexican food on the Lord's day. And the bathrooms are dank, but I put up with it (those margaritas have to go somewhere, am I right?). Oh, and the namesake of the restaurant, Emilio? He's there, working the tables and helping the family out. Colfax Mexican food? I love you.
(4)
Ali L.
CLOSED - as of at least 1/28/15.
(4)
Pam C.
Tough to rate this place! I wanted somewhere casual where I can show up in hiking clothes/no makeup. In the seedy area of Colfax. Walked in at almost 2pm. One hostess and one server. The server takes his sweet time. But, I'm not in a huge hurry, except I'm ready for a margarita! The hostess brings me my marg. I ordered the grilled tacos. Decadent! Surprisingly wonderful. Service got better. I sat across from a table that had a pretty poor looking couple at it. I asked to pay for their check. I hope it made them happy - it sure made me feel good! I think if you're in the area, check this place out. Parking can be a bitch, but I did leave there a happy camper with plans to return.
(4)
Lana K.
If you want delicious food, come here! Emilio's is a small local restaurant with some of the best Mexican food I've ever eaten. The wait staff is attentive and welcoming! A daily feature is 3.00 margaritas that are soooo delicious! If you're looking for a casual local place to eat, you're gonna love this place! Chris has been my server a few times now and he has such a welcoming personal touch to his service. You'll become a regular once you come once!
(5)
Sylvia D.
So, I really liked this place. I am always looking for a new mexican restaurant to try that has good food and good margaritas. This was the place. I ordered the barbacoa chimichanga and it was delicious. The refried beans were perfect and the green chili that they smothered it with was on point. Chips and salsa was excellent. The Margaritas? Oh my, my, my.......let's just say I'll be back again, again and again.
(5)
John S.
The food is good, but not great. I ordered the beef and bean burrito with cheese, sauce, and salad. Strange small burrito, more like a taco shape. Service was friendly and fast, but with so many other tex mex options in Denver, I doubt I'll be back.
(3)
Katrina D.
This is a nice lunch place for people that work near the state capitol. The staff is friendly, especially Tony, our server. The chips and salsa is one of the best in the city. I also like the grilled tacos and the salsa that comes with them. Also, a great place for a happy hour margarita.
(4)
Krystal M.
To be honest... I was hesitant to go here... there are mixed reviews. However, I'm glad the bf convinced me. It was perfect for a Friday afternoon when you need a cheap margarita after a long week. Y'all weren't kidding about these cheap, strong $1.75 margaritas. They were bomb! Seriously... I was really surprised. I had a good little buzz after just 2 of them. I got a carnitas quesadilla, the bf got tacos. The food was meh, not great, not bad... I was hoping for fried crispy type carnitas, it wasn't. Just boiled. I got a side of guac, bad idea... it was $3 by itself and not that great. Our waiter was really nice and came by to check on us frequently and to replenish the magically strong margaritas. If you're sitting by the window be prepared to see some weirdness; some creepy lady blew me a kiss from the street (hey, it's Colfax, so its expected). The restroom was also pretty clean, so that was good as well. Oh and there's some outside seating as well as a few TVs inside. I'll be back for those margaritas!
(3)
Lynn G.
Have always loved this place. Good cheap Mexican food and margarita pitchers. They won't split checks so remember to bring cash. Their cheese enchiladas are the best....
(5)
Steve K.
Shut the Front Door! I've travelled all over this county and Emilio's Super Chef has one of the best breakfast breakfast burritos I've ever had...easily in the top 3 best I've ever eaten. I had Emilos Special burrito... Very generous portions, delicious green chili, and very reasonable prices. The green chili was hot enough to get my nose running, but not hot enough to burn my mouth. Great meal...you won't be disappointed.
(5)
Caleb W.
If I could give it 0 stars I would. They charge you $2 for extra chips and salsa after the complementary one, and $1 for each salsa afterwards for your meal. The waitress told me the 'salsa had been abused in the past'. No Mexican restaurant does this. And splitting a check, not accepted in this rat hole of an establishment. This place is trying to squeeze every last dollar out of you, and they are disregarding the customer in the process. I do not recommend.
(1)
Emily D.
I LOVE the potato tacos at Emilio's. My girlfriend and I come here almost biweekly to get them. They are loaded with yummy guacamole and delicious salsas with great rice and beans. The problem with Emilio's is the service. It is extremely slow. They seem to ever only have one waitress working at a time, and you start to feel bad for whoever is working. You can't even get a word in with them because they're running all over the place and frequently forgetting things. Definitely not the fault of the waiter, and the service is very friendly (we have had very lovely, friendly waiters), it just can take forever for the tacos to finally come. I will keep coming back here because of the tacos, despite the slow service.
(3)
Alex K.
if your stomach can handle it-- I recommend this place Fair pricing, attentive and kind staff, usually places to sit, cheap margs. And--- awesome food (see note disclaimer above) It's on colfax so don't go here for anything classy, but if you are "____" you will fit in....
(3)
Emma V.
My boyfriend and I went to emilios because we always drive past and its always crowded. We got there and were told to seat ourselves for the patio. It took five minutes to be greeted with chips and salsa and ordered our drinks. We then waited 15 minutes to have our waitress come to our table. She took our orders (i got a chicken burrito and my bf fajitas) after she left our table we saw her walk across the street to the liquor store and when she came back to the restaurant she had to come back to our table to reask my boyfriend what he wanted! We both had empty water glasses on our table ( we had to ask several times to have them refilled) when the food finally came out my boyfriends fajitas were burnt and the tortillas dried out. My burrito was more like a taco covered in sauce. while eating i found a chicken bone in my burrito and immediately lost my appetite so we asked for the check. After waiting another 10 minutes we found our waitress making out with some guy outside the kitchen and all the kitchen staff were outside smoking (ew). We finally got our check and left as quickly as possible, Definitely will not be returning!
(1)
Scott P.
Everyone seems to love the margaritas here, but I didn't have one, so I can't accurately judge them. The food was mediocre at best- typical Mexican food made for white people. Blah blah blah boring, the chips were boring, the salsa was boring, the service was just fine, and I really don't have too much else to say about it... other than PEACE DENVER, I'M OUT, BITCHES!!!!
(3)
Whitney M.
Emilio's offers two things: 1) Super-cheap, mess-you-up drinks 2) Stuff to put in your stomach as you indulge in item #1 They do have potato tacos for vegetarians, which is uncommon, and the food is decently priced. Don't go if you're in a hurry--they're usually slammed and, on the times I've been when they weren't slammed, service was pretty slow. But my oh my those margs. They're super sugary and I'm pretty certain there's everclear in there, which is why they won't serve you more than three or four--I can't remember the number at which you'll get cut off and there's a good reason I can't remember. It's usually a fun crowd and you can't go wrong with Colfax people watching. Plus you can get totes smashed for like, five bucks. Me gusta.
(3)
Matt D.
I try to practice the "Don't-Judge-a-Book-by-It's-Cover" principal, but I will admit, I did initially judge Emilio's as a hole-in-the-wall Mexican dive; I couldn't understand why my friends insisted on going all the time. In turn, I didn't give the place a chance the first couple of times I went... ...but by the third visit I was hooked. The service is spectacular. One of the friendliest places to visit. Even if the food was terrible, I'd probably still go just to visit the staff. They're super friendly. The food is great. I actually eat lunch at Emilio's about three times a week now, and the $10 (on average) I drop at each visit is well worth it. I love that everything I get is spicy, but not TOO spicy! ;-) I highly recommend Emilio's to anyone looking for a quick, reasonably priced, delicious meal.
(4)
Amber M.
My husband and I live really close to here and I was excited to finally make it in for one of the cheap margarita nights. I found that they're strong for the price and I now definitely understand the limit of 4. The chips were greasy, but my burrito was good and it arrived quickly. The guy that bussed our table was friendly and efficient. Our server was a little slow with the water, but then the bus guy took over water duties so I don't know whose responsibility it really was. Overall, the service was way better than the last time when the staff got confused, forgot to take our order for an eternity and got my order wrong. This time we sat inside because it looked like rain and were treated to America's worst hits on the radio/ipod/whatever was playing in there. I'm going to try for outside seating from now on. Despite the issues, the food is good (even when it's wrong), the staff is friendly (even when they're slow) and the margarita's are cheap and strong (a little pungent, even). We'll be back.
(3)
Jessica J.
Who can resist $1.75 margaritas? I cannot... Kelly T. and I frequent this joint on Thursday, Friday or (ok...AND) Saturday. For a Buck and 3 qwartas, Kelly T and I was a little skeptical. We figured the margs would be more water than liquor. We were definitely wrong there! They have a 4 margarita limit.....for a reason, as I found out the moment I stumbled out of my chair toward the door. Oy vey! I must admit that I was a little afraid to try the food at first......but, after having their cheap but tasty tacos, I will never hesitate to order from the menu again. On their menu they offer a breakfast burrito as well. Now that I live in the hood, I might have to stop by for one on my way to work.
(4)
James C.
Kind of a dump, but in my experiences dumps usually have pretty delicious food and Emilio's keeps that stereotype alive. The green chili was very tasty and the carne asada plate was delicious.
(4)
A.J. T.
If i could marry Emilios, I would. First off, went during the 1.75 margarita time (4pm-close) and it was amazing. I thought with a price like that, I might get maybe a total of three shots of tequila within their 4 margarita limit. Def not the case; I had two margs before I decided on ordering the Green Chili and was hammered by the time it came. Yes, hammered. They don't play with the margaritas which made me fall in love at first buzz. Plus, they are mixed well. The chili was delicious (but take that with a grain of salt as I was wasted), the server was very attentive and nice, and the service all around was fast. What more could you ask for? Pros: Best deal on real margaritas in town. Food is good. Service is good. Cons: Not open on Sundays :( TE AMO, EMILIOS!!!
(5)
laura h.
2-1/2 stars. I'm almost reluctant to review a place having eating only one or two of their items, but they do have crispy rather than soft-style rellenos, which is a huge plus in my book. I've had better - a couple of times I have found the coating a little too thick and almost underdone - but they're still pretty good, they're reasonably priced, and it's within walking distance of home. The salsa has decent flavor (be prepared for a thin, bottled-style picante salsa, like you actually get at a lot of the restaurants in Mexico, not fresh tomato based, pico-style "salsa".) The chips are weird - again, a little too thick, and therefore a little chewy, like they've absorbed too much oil, but the flavor is good, not overly salted. I'm not a marg drinker, so I can't review those, but people say they're good, and they're probably a good part of this place's popularity. It is right on Colfax, so you may have very down and out people walking by and watching you dine out, through the window. Would I drive across town for their foo? No. But when I have a hankering for a relleno, it serves, and they do single sopapillas, too. They have TV/videos on all the time, which I don't much care for. The servers will quickly remember you ("Relleno, enchilada-style?" "Yes, thank you.") Probably best-suited for a night out with friends, after work or on the weekend, with margaritas as the priority, but the food is a little better than adequate. Better than Benny's (why in God's name do people like that place?)
(3)
Anna F.
-- 1.75 $ margaritas between 4pm and closing time. In case you haven't noticed from previous reviews or the large banner outside. They had me at hello. -- despite their small price (and lots of ice), we found the drinks strong. Hence the 4 margarita per p
(4)
Andrea R.
I believe the food was good but not worth going back because of the experience. What gets them the low rating is their service - don't expect an hour lunch at this place. I think it took them almost 30 minutes to bring our food which is not so cool when you are in a time crunch. Also - you have to keep on them for refills and service of any kind. Also the waitress had a sour attitude - not sure why she was mad when we asked for more chips like we were bothering her and to top it off she rudely said - "You know it costs $2 bucks don't you?" We replied yes but not sure why we should had to pay for them considering the wait time. So once the food arrived we had to eat as fast as can be because we had to get back to work. We also asked for the check as soon as the food arrived which should have been a clue to any normal waitress that we were dissatisfied - but hey what do I know I only waited tables for 3 years. If they would have cared to ask us about our service believe me I would have told them but from the looks of it, this establishment does not care. Maybe they do the cheap margaritas to offset their crappy service and wait staff. Don't think I will be going back anytime soon.
(1)
Eric T.
Ah Emilio's... a great place for good Mexican food and cheap drinks on Colfax. I've gone here many times and have always had good food and a great waitstaff. The burritos are great basic food and for lunch come with green chili inside. You can also get them smothered with cheese, which is my preferred way. I went with a friend recently and he is a big carne asada fan. He really enjoyed his meal and loved the green chili. Another of my favorites is the green chili cheese fries. Nothing better on a hungover morning than spicy green chili, fried potatoes, all covered with cheese. Mmmm! Drinks are always reasonable. As you've probably seen in the other reviews they have cheap margaritas ($1.75) and good bucket specials. So, come on down to Emilio's and grab a drink, some food, and amazing Colfax people watching!
(4)
David C.
Me: Colorado native and Mexican food lover. Often have to search Denver high and low to find a decent Mexican food restaurant. I have been going to Emilio's for nearly 8 years (I work downtown). Its food is alway consistent and service is always prompt and friendly. Okay-the important stuff: The free chips and salsa: Really good! Chips are perfect-they always come out warm and are not too thick or too thin and the salsa is not too thick nor thin and has the perfect heat. Their rellenos are absolutely some of the best in Denver, and their supreme burrito IS the best in Denver. The Chimichangas are also excellent. Finally, their green chili is truly outstanding!! You won't believe the quality of food here--alway authentic--and the extremely affordable cost of it. You can't go wrong. Great food, great green chili, great servce and amazing price. For lunch I usually get two bean tostadas (just $4 !!) and a relleno on the side somothered in green chili(just $3,50).
(4)
Gianni D.
Come for the happy hour.Thurs- Sun $1.75 Margs from 3- close. Cheap Margaritas and a plate of chips of salsa, is always a good way to start of the night. The food is OK at best, I mean it's reasonably priced and the wait staff is pretty cool for the most part. I've only had one problem, this summer we were gettin' shit-canned here. Our table just kinda kept piling up with friends on the patio and our server kept getting the wrong amounts of margs and explaining that she had to pay for all the ones we weren't receiving that she had replaced. I felt pretty bad, but I was being honest. I can't say about my friends. So, yeah when you see the no separate checks sign when you walk in....totally sorry about that. But, they didn't get two stars for this bad experience, in fact chic server look at my picture you probably remember me. Sorry sweetie, hope you don't hate me. They got two stars because even for the cheap price I've had way better Mexican. I consider these guys a budget chubby's which speaks alone for itself. But, I eat here probably once a month, funny how that works. Shows what location does for a joint.
(2)
Amelia Z.
$1.75 MARGARITAS! Yes! And they're real, so be careful. Like most mexican restaurants, food comes out fast and hot. Patty, our server, was really sweet and on top of things. They also had a kind of hype man, Manuel, going around getting people excited for Cinco de Mayo and handing out free things that you'd be excited to get even if you didn't have a few margs in you. Even the busboy asked how our food was! Their food is good too, basic cheap (in price) tex-mex that won't disappoint.
(4)
C S.
FOR THE VALUE THIS PLACE IS EASILY A 5 STAR'R. A MUST if you're hungover and want an amazing burrito and a ridiculously good MARGARITA for only $1.75!!! Love the FAX! (COLFAX!) They put green pork chili in just about every dish. The tamales are the best YO!! BREAKFAST FOR 2 FOR LIKE 12 BUCKS!! OHH HELLZ YA! THIS PLACE ROCKS... I WANNA ROCK!! AT EMILIO'S.... LOVE THIS PLACE!!
(5)
Stephanie M.
I've been to Emilio's twice and had two very different experiences. The first time was last winter. I'd been skiing all day and was ravenous, so I went to Emilio's and had some shredded beef tacos and a margarita. I remember the tacos being delicious and the strong margarita exactly the right thing to ease my aching muscles. The second time was about a week ago, on one of those chill wintry nights when one just craves good Mexican food. I got a beef burrito as carry out. The ground beef seemed to be barely seasoned, if at all, the green chile and beans that were supposedly in the burrito were barely enough to make the filling moist and didn't really add any flavor, and what cheese there was - about a tablespoon of it - was all lumped together in one corner. This may be the biggest waste of $6 in recent memory, and in fact, the most discernible seasoning in my tortilla full of ground beef was the sadness and regret I experienced while eating it. Since Emilio's is far and away the closest place to my house, I may give it another shot - but if I do, it'll be with a large dose of skepticism and trepidation, and not unless I'm willing to throw away a hard-earned fiver on something that may very well not be worth it.
(2)
Robin P.
Well hello there $1.75 margarita on Thursday-Saturday nights. I didn't see you sneak up on me so fast, along with your 3 buddies (they limit you at 4 margaritas. At least that's what the sign says, but if you ask nicely... Just saying). Beware. I've left here a few times not knowing where I was going or what my name was. Darn it, tequila. The service is always good I think. They may be starting to recognize me though, but that's how I like it. Usually fast and attentive. Besides the killer weekend happy marg deal, Monday-Wednesday, you can order a pitcher of margaritas, and 2 combination plates for $16 ALTOGETHER. I'm a cheap date. The food here is pretty tasty, and I've tried a lot of things here. My favorite (especially before a night of drinking): CHILI CHEESE FRIES. Can I get an amen for this plate of heaven, piled high with fried potatoes, chunky pork green chili, and copious amounts of cheese? Can I get another AMEN? Say it with me now. They are closed on Sunday, which is a bummer, because sometimes I crave Mexican food on the Lord's day. And the bathrooms are dank, but I put up with it (those margaritas have to go somewhere, am I right?). Oh, and the namesake of the restaurant, Emilio? He's there, working the tables and helping the family out. Colfax Mexican food? I love you.
(4)
Ali L.
CLOSED - as of at least 1/28/15.
(4)
Pam C.
Tough to rate this place! I wanted somewhere casual where I can show up in hiking clothes/no makeup. In the seedy area of Colfax. Walked in at almost 2pm. One hostess and one server. The server takes his sweet time. But, I'm not in a huge hurry, except I'm ready for a margarita! The hostess brings me my marg. I ordered the grilled tacos. Decadent! Surprisingly wonderful. Service got better. I sat across from a table that had a pretty poor looking couple at it. I asked to pay for their check. I hope it made them happy - it sure made me feel good! I think if you're in the area, check this place out. Parking can be a bitch, but I did leave there a happy camper with plans to return.
(4)
Lana K.
If you want delicious food, come here! Emilio's is a small local restaurant with some of the best Mexican food I've ever eaten. The wait staff is attentive and welcoming! A daily feature is 3.00 margaritas that are soooo delicious! If you're looking for a casual local place to eat, you're gonna love this place! Chris has been my server a few times now and he has such a welcoming personal touch to his service. You'll become a regular once you come once!
(5)
Sylvia D.
So, I really liked this place. I am always looking for a new mexican restaurant to try that has good food and good margaritas. This was the place. I ordered the barbacoa chimichanga and it was delicious. The refried beans were perfect and the green chili that they smothered it with was on point. Chips and salsa was excellent. The Margaritas? Oh my, my, my.......let's just say I'll be back again, again and again.
(5)
John S.
The food is good, but not great. I ordered the beef and bean burrito with cheese, sauce, and salad. Strange small burrito, more like a taco shape. Service was friendly and fast, but with so many other tex mex options in Denver, I doubt I'll be back.
(3)
Nikki K.
CLOSED. Went here and there was a sign on the door that it was seized. Someone walking by said they haven't paid taxes
(1)
Thaddius B.
Nothing super amazing or unique but if your near by and are hungry for some Mexican not a bad choice. The margs were nothing special cheap mix that was too sweet and syrupy for me but for under 2 bucks what do you expect plus I am not a huge marg fan anyway. I have eaten here a couple times and will go back price is right and food is good.
(3)
Beau W.
Another place I stumbled on because of their close proximity to my house. What a great find. They have great happy hour specials. As well as great daily specials for food. An example would be chicken enchiladas for 5 or 6 bucks. 1990 prices! Even if you don't get one of the specials, it is very cheap. I love the steak chimichanga plate. The green chili is really good. The seasoning on the steak inside is perfect. The best part of this place is the salsa. It's the best salsa I have ever had. Normally when I say this, I follow up with "besides mine." Not this time. I wish I could make a salsa like this. Fresh tasting and seasoned perfectly. Best Tex-Mex in town!
(5)
Katrina D.
This is a nice lunch place for people that work near the state capitol. The staff is friendly, especially Tony, our server. The chips and salsa is one of the best in the city. I also like the grilled tacos and the salsa that comes with them. Also, a great place for a happy hour margarita.
(4)
Krystal M.
To be honest... I was hesitant to go here... there are mixed reviews. However, I'm glad the bf convinced me. It was perfect for a Friday afternoon when you need a cheap margarita after a long week. Y'all weren't kidding about these cheap, strong $1.75 margaritas. They were bomb! Seriously... I was really surprised. I had a good little buzz after just 2 of them. I got a carnitas quesadilla, the bf got tacos. The food was meh, not great, not bad... I was hoping for fried crispy type carnitas, it wasn't. Just boiled. I got a side of guac, bad idea... it was $3 by itself and not that great. Our waiter was really nice and came by to check on us frequently and to replenish the magically strong margaritas. If you're sitting by the window be prepared to see some weirdness; some creepy lady blew me a kiss from the street (hey, it's Colfax, so its expected). The restroom was also pretty clean, so that was good as well. Oh and there's some outside seating as well as a few TVs inside. I'll be back for those margaritas!
(3)
Lynn G.
Have always loved this place. Good cheap Mexican food and margarita pitchers. They won't split checks so remember to bring cash. Their cheese enchiladas are the best....
(5)
Steve K.
Shut the Front Door! I've travelled all over this county and Emilio's Super Chef has one of the best breakfast breakfast burritos I've ever had...easily in the top 3 best I've ever eaten. I had Emilos Special burrito... Very generous portions, delicious green chili, and very reasonable prices. The green chili was hot enough to get my nose running, but not hot enough to burn my mouth. Great meal...you won't be disappointed.
(5)
Caleb W.
If I could give it 0 stars I would. They charge you $2 for extra chips and salsa after the complementary one, and $1 for each salsa afterwards for your meal. The waitress told me the 'salsa had been abused in the past'. No Mexican restaurant does this. And splitting a check, not accepted in this rat hole of an establishment. This place is trying to squeeze every last dollar out of you, and they are disregarding the customer in the process. I do not recommend.
(1)
Emily D.
I LOVE the potato tacos at Emilio's. My girlfriend and I come here almost biweekly to get them. They are loaded with yummy guacamole and delicious salsas with great rice and beans. The problem with Emilio's is the service. It is extremely slow. They seem to ever only have one waitress working at a time, and you start to feel bad for whoever is working. You can't even get a word in with them because they're running all over the place and frequently forgetting things. Definitely not the fault of the waiter, and the service is very friendly (we have had very lovely, friendly waiters), it just can take forever for the tacos to finally come. I will keep coming back here because of the tacos, despite the slow service.
(3)
Richard R.
Staff, location and margaritas - oh my! For sure the three reasons I keep coming back to Emilio's. You can't beat the price, it's in the hood and I always always always get polite service! First, the employees here are very friendly (and cute for the most part) which goes a long way even when the place is packed and the food takes some time to come out. A friendly employee does a lot to alleviate the wait time. Speaking of food - meh. Being a picky eater when it comes to Mexican food is just how I roll. Hardly anything is as good as Grandma's cooking and this place doesn't come close. Still, it's decent and edible but nothing to call home about. The margaritas are cheap and strong even though you can't really taste the booze. They do a good job of masking the tequila flavor but I know it's in there cuz I get a solid buzz fo sho! Overall I like this place and wouldn't hesitate to go back. A fairly inexpensive time for the amount of food you get. A-OK. Solid. Bueno.
(3)
Leah P.
I'm a big Emilio's fan. Good luck finding anything there that's "light" or "healthy", but if you're prepared to stuff your face with some deliciously fattening Mexican food, you've found the spot. Quality-wise, the food is a couple steps up from other cheap Mexican in the area (I dream about the potato-sausage tacos...), but it's probably pretty bad for you. In the summer, their patio has accommodated some of my weirder interactions with Colfax riff raff, and the people-watching is unparalleled. They do stiff margarita pitchers for a very reasonable price too, making this one of my favorite spots for grub on Colfax.
(4)
Rick N.
I would love to review this place however I was unable to get in. I am disabled and tried to go through the door but could not. So I tried to call to have someone let me in and the phone was busy. So I went around to the window to wave down the bartender when she saw me she turned and walked away. Then I went home and called to complain and spoke to the owner. She said that I was welcome to come back as if it was super easy for me to do. And when I mentioned the phone was busy she said this is a business and they get calls. I said that it must be nice to be able to turn away customers. There are too many other places that know how to cater to all types of clientele unfortunately this not one. I guess it would have been nice to have an apology instead the owner denied the event even happened!
(1)
Alissa R.
In all reality, I don't really need to write about my experiences here-Tiffany W's review pretty much sums it up. It had been years since I ventured into this, and now I remember why. A friend and I were in the area and they had expressed a craving for 'sit down/fast Mexican food' and this is where we ended up. Yes they have those cheap margaritas...err, um if you could even call them that- I, too had to slam mine or forfeit the entire drink cost (it wasn't during happy hour.) Terrible with a capital T. The salsa had some flavor but was riddled with a tad too much salt. My friend opted for a combo of sorts and I got a guacamole tostada with a side of re-fried beans. Everything was bland, so good thing for that salty salsa, we needed it to season everything. On my way to the restroom, I caught a glimpse into the back area where it seems they wash the dishes and it was pretty murky....our server was nice to comp a 2nd bowl of chips and salsa (only the first one is complimentary, beware) but only did so because we ordered a side of sour cream and guacamole, which are a dollar each. I wish I could give it at least one more star but that just doesn't seem fair. Sorry Emilio's.
(2)
Adam H.
I've eaten here twice. The first time I had one of there combo platters. It was your run of the mill smothered plate of random Mexican food items. This last time I had the grilled tacos. I would go back for these. The service is relatively slow but very friendly. I wouldn't drive a long distance to go to this place but if you live in Uptown and are looking for decent Mexican food. It gets the job done.
(3)
D N.
I go here strictly for the breakfast burritos. After a long night of drinking, there's nothing better to set you right the next morning. My favorite is the egg, potato, bacon with cheese. Comes with green chili inside which ads some great flavor. I've never had anything else there, so I'm rating them on the burrito only.
(4)
Will P.
This is a great little gem amid the gross Chinese food, overpriced Burger and brew joints and the....ahem...colorful cast that roams Colfax. The margs SEEM weak at first, but they hit later. I suggest getting green chili with anything you get. It's really good. Finally, I found my own little hole in the wall between my home and my bus stop. No surprise I've been here almost every night in the past three weeks. UPDATE: Because of a few unfortunate visits in recent weeks, I have decided to blackball this place due to poor customer service and downright rudeness on behalf of one singular employee. Until she's gone, I shall not return. Too bad... For them.
(4)
Tiffany W.
Oh, man. It's hard to go wrong with $1.75 margaritas ...actually, it's really easy to go wrong with $1.75 margaritas. Good thing they limit four. But for me, the limit was one. And barely. The first thing that came to mind after the first few sips (because I had to be sure) was: "toilet water". Not that I have any idea, but the color... and something about the mixer. It hit me like toilet cleaner water. In the sinuses. Or something. It was awful. So I slammed the first one and that was it. But it's nice to know I still have some principle, price is right or not. The food? Well, something tells me it would have been much better if I'd been able to stomach the margs. The salsa was good; a nice mix with a kick (but not too much), but the chips were almost chewy. Like they hadn't been fried long enough? I ordered the potato tacos because they sounded delish. I was thinking it'd be soft corn torts, but instead it was greasy, more chewy than crispy half-fried (grilled?) corn torts with melty cheese and more grease in potato form. The guac was generous, which I appreciated. The tacos came with rice and beans (standard sides, nothing memorable), and some kind of green salsa. I ate it, but I regretted it afterwards. Total gut bomb. But again, I can see where a following might be forming here (following the booze, that is). Would I eat here again? Maybe. Nothing really to bring me back any time soon, but certainly not the worst place my coworkers could have picked (I'm looking at you--ANYWHERE on the 16th Street Mall...). They won't split checks, so come prepared with cash, or hope your credit limit or account balance will cover the tab and that none of your friends will screw you over by not paying their parts. I'm teetering between two and three stars, but I'm giving three since I don't feel strongly enough about coming back here or not. Conclusion: it's a Mexi-joint on Colfax with $1.75 margaritas. Anything could happen.
(3)
Proteus D.
Came here for a working lunch. I had the Mahi Mahi fajitas. Which were unique and all in all pretty tasty. However way over salted, I had a dry mouth for the rest of the day. I don't eat dairy or meat and so was pretty shocked to discover that the beans were cooked in lard. Errrr....gross. I only found this out when I pushed the waitress to confirm they were meat free. Even though I asked in advance for a non meat / dairy plate.
(3)
Faith M.
People. Thursday-Satuday you can get 16oz margaritas for 1.75. I mean do I even need to review anymore. Jeez. I think the food is good but Mexican food isn't something I'm well versed in so if you're really into Mexican food don't take my word for it. The reason I'm knocking them one star is because they close pretty early, like 9, but I probably would too if I was operating a business on Colfax. On the flip side the people watching is amazing.
(4)
Jonathan C.
$1.75 margs.... say what, yes there is a 4 marg limit but just don't act like its your prom night and you wont be turned down. I wouldnt rave about the food but I always split the nachos but you do get FREE!!!! chips and salsa. I suggest next time you're in the neighborhood and say "lets go to a dive bar" try this place out
(4)
Lindsey K.
One of my favorite chili rellenos in Denver, $1.75 margaritas, yes please!
(4)
Kelly T.
I'll admit it. I don't go to this place for the food. I go there for the drinks. More specifically, the $1.75 margaritas they have from 4-9 Thursday through Saturday. Even MORE specifically, the incredibly strong, limit of four per customer, your night is either done or about to take a turn for the very interesting after you reach your limit margaritas. I'm talking walking through the McDonald's drive thru, trying to place an order on foot interesting. They also have really great beer specials for those of you that like a little hops with your burrito. Jim Gaffigan has a bit where he talks about how all Mexican food is all the same: tortilla with meat, beans, cheese and rice. While I don't think this is the case with those amazing hole in the wall taquerias, it is the case with this place. If you want something decent and cheap, come here. And if you want my recommendation, I like the beef tacos. The service is good and you can usually get a seat, though it does get really loud after about 7. They're expanding right now, so they'll be able to seat even more patrons jonesing for one of their sweet, sweet margs.
(3)
Anthony N.
Okay, I've been here about a dozen times now since moving into the Colfax 'hood', and this place has constantly delivered. Not only is it the perfect place for dirt-cheap margaritas, PBRs, and buckets of Corona, you get one of the tastiest, cheapest burritos drenched in green chili sauce that money can buy. And man, are they fan-frickin-tastic good. The place also has a surprisingly large amount of good lookin' customers coming in and out, I've noticed. Maybe it's just the time of day I end up showing my face there, but hawt-damn. Good Mexican with pretty scenery on Colfax? You don't see that everyday.
(5)
Kelsey S.
Went to Emilio's for the first time last night after hearing about good food and cheap margaritas. They offer a special on Monday nights, for $16 you get two combination plates and a liter of margaritas. It was more than enough food and margs to go around! The rellenos were super delicious! As others have mentioned, the ambiance and the staff aren't anything to write home about, but for the prices, you really can't complain!
(4)
Pablo R.
I had hesitated on going to this place for a while but gave it a try anyway. Needless to say this place was great. I had their chorizo and potatoe tacos and they are so delicious. They had great chips and salsa and their margaritas were cheap and very good. I would definitely recommend this place if you are looking for good Mexican food and great margaritas. Not to mention they have 2.25 margaritas from 6-close. The staff is great and always make the customers feel like family. I have been back many many times and have recommended to a ton of my friends of which they all loved it. We are now loyal customers of this restaurant. Check it out and I'm sure you will love it too. Good suggestions: -Chorizo and potato tacos -Grilled tacos with either type Of meat -carne asada plate -fajitas -carnitas plate -mahi mahi tacos -chile relleño plate -basically anything with green chile!!!!!
(5)
Joseph H.
Friendly service, and the best breakfast burrito I've ever had (emilio's special with cheese).
(5)
Agi D.
Emilio's is one of those places that never disappoint me. Anything I ever ordered I liked. Even the fish tacos. On Colfax. For cheap. And those margaritas. Can't beat it.
(5)
Ambra G.
I have to be honest here. I am a vegetarian, and these guys nearly killed me with their cross contamination. I was also pregnant in my first trimester experiencing morning sickness when I bit into my worst food nightmare.. a tostada, which was lard free and meat free as all are... I bit in a sunk my teeth into a disgusting huge piece of meat.. steak or pork (which I am allergic to). I knew the texture and immediately spit it out as fast as I could, choking, dramatically gasping and eventually puking into their toilet. It was my first time and the LAST time I will ever go there. Besides, there are roaches all over that place.. I don't care how great their margaritas are or how cool their colfax patio is for people watching. it doesn't mean anything if you are eating poison. DISGUSTINg and DISGRACEFUL. they didn't even offer a solution, just said, oh.. sorry.
(1)
Kristin N.
I went here earlier this summer, about a month and a half ago, and unfortunately did not try the $1.75 Margaritas. I have heard they are the staple for this restaurant. I will probably come back here for just this reason. On the particular occasion I went here, we sat outside on the Patio. This turned out to be a very bad idea, as we were continuously harassed by homeless people. I think in the hour that we were there we were asked for money at least 3 different times. Unfortunately, the close proximity to a shady part of Colfax is what causes this problem. Next time I'll sit inside. I ordered mahi mahi tacos, but was unimpressed when they arrived with simply just mahi mahi and nothing else in them. I mean where was the lettuce, etc.? But, I have to admit that my friend ordered the Chicken Enchilada plate and quite enjoyed it. The service also really sucked this day. It took our waitress so long to bring us our check that I had to go inside and find her. I'm hoping this is not normal, or only attributed to the fact that we were sitting outside. While this review isn't that great, I admit that with the close proximity to my house I will probably go back here. But, next time I'll sit inside, order a cheap margarita, and go with enchiladas. I've heard alot of good reviews, and was sad I wasn't greatly impressed.
(3)
Toni D.
$1.75 Margaritas is awesome! Located right at Colfax and Logan. Since it's right on Colfax it can be quite entertaining watching the people walk by on Colfax. The margaritas are pretty refreshing on a hot summer day. I ordered the ground beef nachos and loved them. Not the best I've had but after a few margaritas they taste pretty darn good. However, I was warned to stay away from the fish tacos and nacho cheese sauce on the nachos. So, make sure to ask for melted shredded cheese. If the weather is nice sit out on the patio and enjoy.. So, my friends warned me they have a 4 drink maximum.. I'm not sure they really keep tracked especially since our bill was not accurate.
(3)
Elin N.
This place is a staple for breakfast burritos. The bacon & egg with potato & green chili. The $1.75 margaritas are a great touch!
(5)
Joseph M.
This place is pretty sweet. I don't think I've ever had a bill over $35 for two people, two entree's and 5 margs. The food is speedy and I really can't find better crispy relleno's anywhere in Denver. I would've given it 5 stars except the service seems to be stellar until you get your food. On numerous occasions it's taken 10-15 minutes to get a server back over once our food has arrived despite empty marg glasses.
(4)
john g.
All of us enjoyed lunch the other day. The crispy tacos were better than average. They should be more generous with the chips because it's a small amount with no free refills (and this was for 3 adults). The service was relaxed but friendly. Would return if I'm in the area and am craving basic Mexican food.
(3)
Carolyn M.
The service at Emilios is not good, especially when the place is packed (which it often is). However, the margaritas are cheap ($1.75) and you should have a nice little buzz after drinking 4 (yes, unfortunately there is a limit). The food was nothing spectacular, but I would order the carne asada for dinner again. The smothered breakfast burritos are where it's at, and likely the reason for my 4-star rating. I'll definitely be back!
(4)
Adrian P.
The 1.75 margaritas are about the only thing this restaurant has going for them. The food sucks and the margaritas were weak. They taste like kool aid mix and no frozen margaritas. Oh and $2 for more chips? I could buy a bag of chips for cheaper. No thank you the place isnt even fancy...ill go somewhere better for mexican food and drinks.
(1)
Scott V.
great service, good food & always a good lunch special. They get the food out quickly here during the lunch rush. The grilled tacos are awesome!
(4)
Carly B.
This place RULES. Had heard about their $1.75 happy hour margarita and wasn't sure if we'd be too late. I figured it didn't matter since if the happy hour price is $1.75, their regular price is probably only like $3 or $4 anyway. The chips and salsa were tasty, just the right amount of spice in the salsa and I didn't feel like I'd have to be taken out on a stretcher after (Lime, I'm looking at you). In fact, even though the salsa was gone long before the chips were, the chips weren't too bad on their own and I usually view the chips as merely conduits for dips. That's saying something. I ordered a couple of ala carte items (guacamole tostada and cheese enchilada) and my friend got the chili rellano plate. Everything came out super fast, warm, and gooey. Now, it wasn't the BEST Mexican food I've ever had, but it surely hit the spot. And that's not the point here anyway. The point is that the service was great. Our server was super attentive and even though the place was packed, they found a chair for a third friend to join us about halfway through for a margarita and they didn't act put out at all. Two meals and five margaritas later, we received the "damage". Twenty-four measly dollars. You can't beat that! Screw Benny's, I'm going to Emilio's from now on.
(4)
Julio T.
Good Mexican food in Denver isn't hard to find. You can almost pick a place at random and find more than adequate burritos with that great green chili pork gravy so common in this city. So Emilio's is only okay and in Denver, okay Mexican food just doesn't cut it. The chili is watery and under-spiced. The beans are thin and taste canned. The meats are just bland. And the place is kind of overpriced: $5+ for just a burrito is a bit much unless its Chipotle big. Yeah, the margaritas are good and well-priced and really in a lot of other cities this place would be decent or maybe even great. But in Denver (even in east Denver), there are many good Mexican restaurants, so I just don't see the need for a mediocre one.
(2)
Frances M.
It's nothing fancy but the food is good and the margs are cheap (especially during happy hour). It's not overly done and that's why I like it.
(4)
Jason W.
Fantastic everything. Cheap drinks and delicious food. The relleno was superb.
(5)
Karl C.
This is a good place in the cap hill area. kinda divey and slow but decent food at a decent price. not much else to say. because of their location gets busy fri./sat. nites.
(3)
Jerad E.
Nice hole-in-the-wall Mexican place. Totally love their cheese enchiladas and the margarita deal cant be beat: $1.75 margaritas! Been here a few times and haven't had any problems with service and the food comes out quick even when the place is packed on a Friday night. Good chips and salsa. My only complaint is they're not open for my Sunday Mexican food cravings.
(4)
Dana R.
To quote my hubbo, "this is good, sloppy Mexican food"...Amen brotha. Go for Combo B. Hungry? Don't panic. Pick up on a Sunday night at 630 should take about 7 minutes!
(3)
Sarah F.
First off, as most of the other reviews have noted, this place has freaking awesome $1.75 margaritas. They limit you to 4, but that's all you need! They are delicious, and decently strong. I ordered a chimichanga with carnitas from here the other day, and oh god it was delicious. Lots of cheesey goodness, plus beans, rice, lettuce, tomato, sour cream and a huge hunk of guac!!! The only thing is, they won't split checks. This is kind of a pain when you go in a group of people, unless you just plan on using cash.
(4)
Felicia F.
I went here in the summer with a friends before a meeting and I didn't really like it. I order a large nacho and the meat and cheese were really watery. My friend also order taquitos and she said they tasted like they didn't have any seasoning in them. I wouldn't recommend this to anyone who like good Mexican. Sorry but I just didn't like the food.
(2)
Jessica D.
The cheap-o (and surprisingly strong) margaritas are what originally brought me into Emilio's, but I actually like their food too. Quick, inexpensive, and tasty! I have a hard time making it over there for breakfast but their smothered breakfast burritos are awesome as well. Unfortunately they're closed on sunday mornings, which is when my breakfast burrito cravings seem to peak hardcore. haha Emilio's is a little on the divey side but not too shabby. I'm not going to say the food here is so good it will change your life, but if you're looking for a quick (and very reasonably priced) plate of mexican food it's tasty and worth the trip. The few times I've been in there they don't seem big on splitting checks for people (not sure if that's the rule or just the server's preference), and I believe they have a credit card minimum of $5 or so. That doesn't seem like a big deal, but that's pretty hard to exceed if you're just getting a single item.
(3)
Amanda P.
Nothing stands out to me for this place. Cheap margs that taste decent. That's all I remember! Everything else was meh.
(3)
Rachel C.
This place is the textbook definition of serviceable. If you're in the mood for some greasy, green-chile laden dinners and cheap margs (ask for extra limes, trust me) you've come to the right place. Menu standouts incude the breakfast burritos- any of them- smothered with cheese, carnitas and eggs, grilled tacos, chimichangas and smothered fries with steak. The servers are friendly but often stretched thin throughout the restaurant and patio, so just keep that in mind when you're trying to get it on that $1.75 weekend marg deal. You get what you pay for, after all.
(4)
Melissa J.
We used to live near them and were regulars enough that they still recognize us. You just can't beat $1.75 margaritas! They're $3 other nights which is still pretty good. Their green chili is some of the best. Sometimes I get a pint to go and pour it over brown rice and chicken at home. The carne asada is amazing, the rellenos are good too. Good enough that I haven't really tried much else. My husband always gets the smothered fries- very indulgent. Now that we've moved farther away we eat at the local Mexican dive and while it's ok, I miss Superchef immensely.
(4)
Alex K.
if your stomach can handle it-- I recommend this place Fair pricing, attentive and kind staff, usually places to sit, cheap margs. And--- awesome food (see note disclaimer above) It's on colfax so don't go here for anything classy, but if you are "____" you will fit in....
(3)
C S.
FOR THE VALUE THIS PLACE IS EASILY A 5 STAR'R. A MUST if you're hungover and want an amazing burrito and a ridiculously good MARGARITA for only $1.75!!! Love the FAX! (COLFAX!) They put green pork chili in just about every dish. The tamales are the best YO!! BREAKFAST FOR 2 FOR LIKE 12 BUCKS!! OHH HELLZ YA! THIS PLACE ROCKS... I WANNA ROCK!! AT EMILIO'S.... LOVE THIS PLACE!!
(5)
Emma V.
My boyfriend and I went to emilios because we always drive past and its always crowded. We got there and were told to seat ourselves for the patio. It took five minutes to be greeted with chips and salsa and ordered our drinks. We then waited 15 minutes to have our waitress come to our table. She took our orders (i got a chicken burrito and my bf fajitas) after she left our table we saw her walk across the street to the liquor store and when she came back to the restaurant she had to come back to our table to reask my boyfriend what he wanted! We both had empty water glasses on our table ( we had to ask several times to have them refilled) when the food finally came out my boyfriends fajitas were burnt and the tortillas dried out. My burrito was more like a taco covered in sauce. while eating i found a chicken bone in my burrito and immediately lost my appetite so we asked for the check. After waiting another 10 minutes we found our waitress making out with some guy outside the kitchen and all the kitchen staff were outside smoking (ew). We finally got our check and left as quickly as possible, Definitely will not be returning!
(1)
Scott P.
Everyone seems to love the margaritas here, but I didn't have one, so I can't accurately judge them. The food was mediocre at best- typical Mexican food made for white people. Blah blah blah boring, the chips were boring, the salsa was boring, the service was just fine, and I really don't have too much else to say about it... other than PEACE DENVER, I'M OUT, BITCHES!!!!
(3)
Whitney M.
Emilio's offers two things: 1) Super-cheap, mess-you-up drinks 2) Stuff to put in your stomach as you indulge in item #1 They do have potato tacos for vegetarians, which is uncommon, and the food is decently priced. Don't go if you're in a hurry--they're usually slammed and, on the times I've been when they weren't slammed, service was pretty slow. But my oh my those margs. They're super sugary and I'm pretty certain there's everclear in there, which is why they won't serve you more than three or four--I can't remember the number at which you'll get cut off and there's a good reason I can't remember. It's usually a fun crowd and you can't go wrong with Colfax people watching. Plus you can get totes smashed for like, five bucks. Me gusta.
(3)
Matt D.
I try to practice the "Don't-Judge-a-Book-by-It's-Cover" principal, but I will admit, I did initially judge Emilio's as a hole-in-the-wall Mexican dive; I couldn't understand why my friends insisted on going all the time. In turn, I didn't give the place a chance the first couple of times I went... ...but by the third visit I was hooked. The service is spectacular. One of the friendliest places to visit. Even if the food was terrible, I'd probably still go just to visit the staff. They're super friendly. The food is great. I actually eat lunch at Emilio's about three times a week now, and the $10 (on average) I drop at each visit is well worth it. I love that everything I get is spicy, but not TOO spicy! ;-) I highly recommend Emilio's to anyone looking for a quick, reasonably priced, delicious meal.
(4)
Amber M.
My husband and I live really close to here and I was excited to finally make it in for one of the cheap margarita nights. I found that they're strong for the price and I now definitely understand the limit of 4. The chips were greasy, but my burrito was good and it arrived quickly. The guy that bussed our table was friendly and efficient. Our server was a little slow with the water, but then the bus guy took over water duties so I don't know whose responsibility it really was. Overall, the service was way better than the last time when the staff got confused, forgot to take our order for an eternity and got my order wrong. This time we sat inside because it looked like rain and were treated to America's worst hits on the radio/ipod/whatever was playing in there. I'm going to try for outside seating from now on. Despite the issues, the food is good (even when it's wrong), the staff is friendly (even when they're slow) and the margarita's are cheap and strong (a little pungent, even). We'll be back.
(3)
Jessica J.
Who can resist $1.75 margaritas? I cannot... Kelly T. and I frequent this joint on Thursday, Friday or (ok...AND) Saturday. For a Buck and 3 qwartas, Kelly T and I was a little skeptical. We figured the margs would be more water than liquor. We were definitely wrong there! They have a 4 margarita limit.....for a reason, as I found out the moment I stumbled out of my chair toward the door. Oy vey! I must admit that I was a little afraid to try the food at first......but, after having their cheap but tasty tacos, I will never hesitate to order from the menu again. On their menu they offer a breakfast burrito as well. Now that I live in the hood, I might have to stop by for one on my way to work.
(4)
James C.
Kind of a dump, but in my experiences dumps usually have pretty delicious food and Emilio's keeps that stereotype alive. The green chili was very tasty and the carne asada plate was delicious.
(4)
A.J. T.
If i could marry Emilios, I would. First off, went during the 1.75 margarita time (4pm-close) and it was amazing. I thought with a price like that, I might get maybe a total of three shots of tequila within their 4 margarita limit. Def not the case; I had two margs before I decided on ordering the Green Chili and was hammered by the time it came. Yes, hammered. They don't play with the margaritas which made me fall in love at first buzz. Plus, they are mixed well. The chili was delicious (but take that with a grain of salt as I was wasted), the server was very attentive and nice, and the service all around was fast. What more could you ask for? Pros: Best deal on real margaritas in town. Food is good. Service is good. Cons: Not open on Sundays :( TE AMO, EMILIOS!!!
(5)
Derek W.
We have driven past this place so many times and always say "We need to try that place". Finally did a couple weeks ago and went back for a second time last week. This place is great! The food definitely tastes good, the staff very friendly and attentive, and the margarita happy hour.... who can pass that up! Great food, great prices, great place!
(5)
mellany c.
First.. I had a breakfast burrito.. It was alright.. But one, I'm still starving.. And two.. What kind of mexican restaurant runs out of hot sauce... When they're only have full??? I wait around for hot sauce.. My waitress seemed to disappear into the abyss.
(1)
laura h.
2-1/2 stars. I'm almost reluctant to review a place having eating only one or two of their items, but they do have crispy rather than soft-style rellenos, which is a huge plus in my book. I've had better - a couple of times I have found the coating a little too thick and almost underdone - but they're still pretty good, they're reasonably priced, and it's within walking distance of home. The salsa has decent flavor (be prepared for a thin, bottled-style picante salsa, like you actually get at a lot of the restaurants in Mexico, not fresh tomato based, pico-style "salsa".) The chips are weird - again, a little too thick, and therefore a little chewy, like they've absorbed too much oil, but the flavor is good, not overly salted. I'm not a marg drinker, so I can't review those, but people say they're good, and they're probably a good part of this place's popularity. It is right on Colfax, so you may have very down and out people walking by and watching you dine out, through the window. Would I drive across town for their foo? No. But when I have a hankering for a relleno, it serves, and they do single sopapillas, too. They have TV/videos on all the time, which I don't much care for. The servers will quickly remember you ("Relleno, enchilada-style?" "Yes, thank you.") Probably best-suited for a night out with friends, after work or on the weekend, with margaritas as the priority, but the food is a little better than adequate. Better than Benny's (why in God's name do people like that place?)
(3)
Anna F.
-- 1.75 $ margaritas between 4pm and closing time. In case you haven't noticed from previous reviews or the large banner outside. They had me at hello. -- despite their small price (and lots of ice), we found the drinks strong. Hence the 4 margarita per p
(4)
Andrea R.
I believe the food was good but not worth going back because of the experience. What gets them the low rating is their service - don't expect an hour lunch at this place. I think it took them almost 30 minutes to bring our food which is not so cool when you are in a time crunch. Also - you have to keep on them for refills and service of any kind. Also the waitress had a sour attitude - not sure why she was mad when we asked for more chips like we were bothering her and to top it off she rudely said - "You know it costs $2 bucks don't you?" We replied yes but not sure why we should had to pay for them considering the wait time. So once the food arrived we had to eat as fast as can be because we had to get back to work. We also asked for the check as soon as the food arrived which should have been a clue to any normal waitress that we were dissatisfied - but hey what do I know I only waited tables for 3 years. If they would have cared to ask us about our service believe me I would have told them but from the looks of it, this establishment does not care. Maybe they do the cheap margaritas to offset their crappy service and wait staff. Don't think I will be going back anytime soon.
(1)
Eric T.
Ah Emilio's... a great place for good Mexican food and cheap drinks on Colfax. I've gone here many times and have always had good food and a great waitstaff. The burritos are great basic food and for lunch come with green chili inside. You can also get them smothered with cheese, which is my preferred way. I went with a friend recently and he is a big carne asada fan. He really enjoyed his meal and loved the green chili. Another of my favorites is the green chili cheese fries. Nothing better on a hungover morning than spicy green chili, fried potatoes, all covered with cheese. Mmmm! Drinks are always reasonable. As you've probably seen in the other reviews they have cheap margaritas ($1.75) and good bucket specials. So, come on down to Emilio's and grab a drink, some food, and amazing Colfax people watching!
(4)
David C.
Me: Colorado native and Mexican food lover. Often have to search Denver high and low to find a decent Mexican food restaurant. I have been going to Emilio's for nearly 8 years (I work downtown). Its food is alway consistent and service is always prompt and friendly. Okay-the important stuff: The free chips and salsa: Really good! Chips are perfect-they always come out warm and are not too thick or too thin and the salsa is not too thick nor thin and has the perfect heat. Their rellenos are absolutely some of the best in Denver, and their supreme burrito IS the best in Denver. The Chimichangas are also excellent. Finally, their green chili is truly outstanding!! You won't believe the quality of food here--alway authentic--and the extremely affordable cost of it. You can't go wrong. Great food, great green chili, great servce and amazing price. For lunch I usually get two bean tostadas (just $4 !!) and a relleno on the side somothered in green chili(just $3,50).
(4)
Gianni D.
Come for the happy hour.Thurs- Sun $1.75 Margs from 3- close. Cheap Margaritas and a plate of chips of salsa, is always a good way to start of the night. The food is OK at best, I mean it's reasonably priced and the wait staff is pretty cool for the most part. I've only had one problem, this summer we were gettin' shit-canned here. Our table just kinda kept piling up with friends on the patio and our server kept getting the wrong amounts of margs and explaining that she had to pay for all the ones we weren't receiving that she had replaced. I felt pretty bad, but I was being honest. I can't say about my friends. So, yeah when you see the no separate checks sign when you walk in....totally sorry about that. But, they didn't get two stars for this bad experience, in fact chic server look at my picture you probably remember me. Sorry sweetie, hope you don't hate me. They got two stars because even for the cheap price I've had way better Mexican. I consider these guys a budget chubby's which speaks alone for itself. But, I eat here probably once a month, funny how that works. Shows what location does for a joint.
(2)
Amelia Z.
$1.75 MARGARITAS! Yes! And they're real, so be careful. Like most mexican restaurants, food comes out fast and hot. Patty, our server, was really sweet and on top of things. They also had a kind of hype man, Manuel, going around getting people excited for Cinco de Mayo and handing out free things that you'd be excited to get even if you didn't have a few margs in you. Even the busboy asked how our food was! Their food is good too, basic cheap (in price) tex-mex that won't disappoint.
(4)
Stephanie M.
I've been to Emilio's twice and had two very different experiences. The first time was last winter. I'd been skiing all day and was ravenous, so I went to Emilio's and had some shredded beef tacos and a margarita. I remember the tacos being delicious and the strong margarita exactly the right thing to ease my aching muscles. The second time was about a week ago, on one of those chill wintry nights when one just craves good Mexican food. I got a beef burrito as carry out. The ground beef seemed to be barely seasoned, if at all, the green chile and beans that were supposedly in the burrito were barely enough to make the filling moist and didn't really add any flavor, and what cheese there was - about a tablespoon of it - was all lumped together in one corner. This may be the biggest waste of $6 in recent memory, and in fact, the most discernible seasoning in my tortilla full of ground beef was the sadness and regret I experienced while eating it. Since Emilio's is far and away the closest place to my house, I may give it another shot - but if I do, it'll be with a large dose of skepticism and trepidation, and not unless I'm willing to throw away a hard-earned fiver on something that may very well not be worth it.
(2)
Megan N.
Couldn't get better mexican food for this cheap ANYWHERE in Denver. Love the huevos rancheros. So good! If you don't like loud busy places then Emilio's is not for you. Really good chips and salsa and their margs are only $1.75 on Thursday through Saturday. Only complaint- i wish they were open later. : ( they close at 9. If you havent been I recommend it. Great for happy hour and a bite! Cheese fries are bomb too!
(5)
Stanly W.
It surprises me to see so many bad reviews. I don't doubt the veracity of the reviewer, but after going to this place several times (it's two blocks away) I'm pretty happy with it. The breakfast burritos are affordable. The green chili is authentic. The portions are gratifying. I'm really big on service. Even if the meal is good, if the service is bad, that ruffles my feathers to the degree where I just won't go back to the place again. No, I'll come home and revel in the scathing review I'll write here on Yelp. I'm big on service because I've been in service, and I know it doesn't kill anybody to smile and say hello to a customer. It doesn't hurt anybody to be patient and try to walk somebody through a menu if they've never been there before or they're unfamiliar with the fare. It's okay to make a friendly recommendation, and most people tend to appreciate the thought, even if they choose something else. The service here has been just fine for me, every time. And the margaritas will kick your butt.
(4)
Erin W.
Not a huge fan of Mexican food, but when I'm in the mood I go to Emilio's. Tony typically works the counter and is sooo nice and Sergio works the kitchen and cooks up great food! One of the best things about the place is that it's on Colfax so it offers great people watching views (seriously it's amazing). You get a free margarita ever Friday during Happy Hour if you purchase one of their shirts AND you have to wear the shirt in the restaurant. So the t-shirt is worth the price if A. you like margaritas and B. plan on going to Emilio's frequently on Friday's. If you haven't tried it, you should give it a whirl!
(4)
Kent T.
Rumbled into Emilio's on a rainy night, last weekend. It was packed, wall-to-wall and seemed like a "Mexican Greasy Spoon Joint". We were thinking about leaving, but then an enthusiastic waiter RAN up to us and asked us how many in our party. He then hopped outside, grabbed a table, dusted it off, re-arranged some other tables and made us a spot in a corner. After that, I was impressed.... dude actually WANTED us to eat there. The queso was pretty much green chile with cheese in it, but still damn good. The tacos al carbon were outstanding and was enough for two people. To top it off, they have some nifty drink specials: 1.75 margaritas and a bucket of 5 Coronas for 10 bucks (sadly, you don't get to keep the bucket, so my weekend sandcastle plans were foiled. Blast!). Unlike other happy hour/bargain margaritas around Denver, these actually tasted good! Not lemon-flavored KoolAid with salt and a trickle of bad tequila-- I would've been happy paying 4 bucks for each one.
Thank you to the Yelpers for reviewing this place. I was early for a meeting and hit up Emilio's. I had the 'B' combo plate. I didn't like the chicken taco that much, but the enchilada was on point. The chips and salsa were fantastic as well. The food came out quickly and the service was great. I will be back for some good and fast Mexican food!
(4)
Nick W.
Being from Cincinnati, I find it hard to say "THIS IS THE BEST MEXICAN FOOD EVER!!!" given my lack of experience in the subject matter. That said, I can say "THIS IS THE BEST MEXICAN I HAVE EVER HAD!!!" with 100% confidence. I say this because every item I have had on the menu tastes great to me - that coupled with my love of great service = a great experience. The fact that I know Tony, Sergio and Andrea is a testament to them giving top notch service. Best Dish: Tacos al Carbon with Green Chili and a "Tour of Mexico" beer bucket.
(5)
Roger M.
My friends and I used to love this place but it's changed. The margarittas are now $1 more with less tequilla and more sour. It used to be fun but not anymore.
(1)
Jason S.
Hmm.. I'm still really hungry. Maybe it's because they forgot my appetizer... And they were out of hot sauce! Errrrr.. How does a Mexican restaurant run out of hot sauce?!? They sent the two of us to a table with one chair and made us bug every other table looking for an extra chair. We won't be back. P.s. Bring your own cholula!!
(1)
BA M.
Some of these reviews are funny. Can't please some people. I'm a native and grew up in North Denver before the Yuppie implosion, so I know how rare it is to find decent mexican food. Yes, there are better places, but none so close to downtown. Benny's has ALWAYS been a joke, and anything comparable is either too far, or too expensive, or just not all that. As someone who works downtown, I'm grateful to have a place close for takeout.... That being said, it defies common sense why they don't cater to a late-night crowd. They have a liquor license and close before 10 p.m., when most of us freaks don't even go out before 11. They better change their ways with the new expansion... P.S. I still miss the Walnut Cafe.
(4)
Henry G.
I wanted to add an update to my last review. Emilio's has become one of my fav Uptown breakfast stops because they open at 8am. And I agree with Megan who said the huevos rancheros are so0o good!. I'm an early riser, so when I wake up hungry on the weekend, I can't wait until 10am for Brunch. Emilio's is open early and they serve great breakfast dishes both American style and Mexican style. Low prices, good food and a serving so large you'll not be hungry again till 2 pm.
(3)
Mr. T.
Is the food the best? no. Is the service the best? Probably not, but not terrible either. Knowing all that, I still find myself drawn to this place. It's a fantastic place to stop before a concert. Cheap strong margs and burritos. If they raise prices, I may not return. Gotta have the margaritas though. My friends and I have developed a sort of dilemma with this place though. If we start our night here, we don't remember the end of the night. Enjoy!!!
(5)
Kate K.
I am here at least every Thursday if not more often and with a group of 5-8 friends. The margaritas are deliciously strong and plentiful and $1.75 on Thursday-Saturday 4pm-9pm. Some say the staff is mean. Some say its waaayyy too crowded. Babies. It is crowded because the staff will never pressure or kick you out (even after close), but you can make reservations, and they also offer take out. The service is quick and the staff tries to get on a first-name basis with their customers. Most importantly though, the food is also delicious, quick, and cheap. Breakfast all day (burritos are awesome). Superb and spicy green chile. Mouth-watering potatoes. Tasty, amazing carne asada. They give you more food than you ever thought was coming to the table because it cost you $2-$6 dollars. The owner (Emilio) is spirited and kind, and sometimes leads a sort of "the wave" with clapping and chanting joyously through the whole restaurant. Its a family, and worth the wait!
(5)
Robert A.
And now, for breakfast: The location used to be home to another breakfast staple: The Walnut Cafe. I was sad to see it go, but relieved to find it now occupied by cheap delicious mexican food. this place has amazing breakfast burritos. Seriously, they're really great and cheap ($4). Egg, potato, green chile and cheese with choice of carnitas (like, always) or chorizo or italian susage or all of it together or none of it all. I am not so sure about the lunch, all i've had the chance to eat is the cheese enchiladas, which should never be a judge...
(4)
Brandt W.
There's nothing more comforting when I drive North down Logan Street across Colfax than seeing that huge green and black banner still hanging outside of this hole in the wall, diamond in the rough. "What does the banner say?", you curiously ask. [MARGARITAS $1.75 THURS-SAT 4PM-CLOSE] "$1.75?!?... No way, that must be a misprint or something dude!" Negative. Not only is it correct, but they somehow continue this amazing deal even though they have clearly made a name for themselves. Now, I don't know how long Emilio's has been in business, but I do know that most assume $1.75 margaritas have to be as cheap and generic as they come. Again, those people would be wrong. These margaritas are really good, and there's little skimping on the tequila too. No skimping at all actually. What's more, the food is as good and inexpensive as the margaritas, allowing for a person to get 2 steak tacos ($2.50 each) and 2 margaritas for under $10. Did I mention those 2 steak tacos can actually be made into 4 steak tacos given the double tortilla they make them with? Add the basket of chips and very good salsa (spicy), and that's quite a steal. Oh and their breakfast burritos are some of the best I've had in Denver. There are a few negative aspects of dining at Emilio's that I do need to point out though. Afterall, dinner and drinks that cheap have to come at a price, right? 1. It is on Colfax and not exactly the greatest area of Colfax, so... it's on Colfax. 2. The service is rarely even adequate, thus you have to be patient. The owner/manager is a really friendly guy though. 3. Bathrooms are weak and dirty 4. It's really small - not a great place for large groups. I'd suggest 4 at most so you're not cramped and waiting 5. First basket of chips is free, but they charge you after that. When did this become an accepted practice?! I feel like it randomly sprouted up at every Mexican restaurant one day and I don't like it at all. 6. Emilio's will slip one by you with "add-ons". They'll ask if you want your entree or dish with cheese, etc. and then will charge you extra for it. I think cheese goes for something like $.75 7. They like to close early - 9-9:30ish, so you'll start to get some looks and even less service as that time approaches. 8. They are not open on Sundays. Overall, I say the food and margs outweigh the bad, so go ahead and give it a try.
(4)
Ashley N.
AMAZING chorizo and potato tacos!!! Will definitely be back and will tell everyone about this Colfax gem!
(5)
M A.
It's hard to find vegan mexican food that's at least somewhat authentic tasting. Emilio's offers a potato taco plate that can be made vegan with no cheese. I've only lived in Denver since December but this is hands down my favorite mexican restaurant. Super cheap food and margs ($1.75 during happy hour!) fun atmosphere, great service and they're open late!
(5)
karen l.
i will never go back here they ignore me few times thats it. there are so many good places to try in capitol hill. besides it is a dirty place.
(1)
C D.
There are many choices when it comes to mexican restaurants in Denver. The kitchen is accomodating and the salsa actually has some heat. Still there is better tasting mexican food for comparable prices.
(2)
Tom R.
Denver has some of the best Mexican restaurants in the nation, this one is really just average and maybe gets an extra 1/2 star just because these is nothing great around the Capitol and this can be a convenient Mexican food fix. The food is a little better than average, and I would agree with the reviewer who talked about the breakfast burritos, they are pretty good and very filling. There is nothing "spicy" here for anyone who likes their food hot like I do, but the chips and salsa are pretty good. HOWEVER, they hose you on this as after the first basket, which is really not that big, they start charging you per basket. They can only get away with this because they are the only game in town for the 2-3 blocks around the Capitol. I would rather they just start by saying $2 for unlimited chips etec...., but because of this, I really prefer getting in my car and going to one of the many "great" places within 2-3 miles of the Capitol. It's a principle thing....in a pinch, this will do, but nothing to "plan" your day around.
(3)
Ryan C.
Great food but not fine dining. P.S. just the right price!
(3)
Tom S.
A tale of two Emilio's. If you partake inside, I've always been able to get seated by the window and had the best cheap margs and mexican food in Denver. Of course you can pay 3 times more and get perhaps 1 times better product but the value ratio speaks for itself. Then there is the outside patio. I've never had a clean experience, the orders aren't right and the service is much slower. The upside to the patio is that it is prime hipster watching territory and you can keep an eye on your scooter. That is all.
(4)
Nicholas ..
$1.75 Margaritas that are strong and delicious! The food is pretty run of the mill Mexican food. Best part is how cheap you can get full and buzzed.
(4)
Don C.
Best Mexican food I have had outside Tucson! Prices were excellent , staff was cheerful and attentive. At a Technology conference and will try to go back while i am in town. Reccomended
(5)
Geenie C.
Still the best deal in town for amazing carnitas and breakfast burritos. The breakfast burritos are so big they just fold them in half and all for under $5!!!! I have cravings for the carnitas plate and green chili that cannot be remedied unless it's from Emilio's. My one wish is that they were open on Sunday's for those lazy days that need to start off with a big burrito.
(4)
Amy M.
I am compelled to write a review because I just discovered the place and had a great experience. I would encourage those who wrote reviews a few years ago when it opened to give it a second chance! I went with a group of friends and had the (very substantial!) $1.75 margaritas for happy hour. Wow. Chips and salsa were also good. I did not order any food but my friends did, and I didn't hear any complaints. Overall it has a comfortable atmosphere, good prices, and friendly and attentive staff.
(4)
Thomas S.
Eh? There is really nothing good or bad to say about the place. They deliver what you'd expect. Their salsa was decent. Green chile was good. The burrito was okay. Service was quick, efficient and friend...and not overly sufficating. Overall, it makes a good lunch quickie.
(3)
Christina H.
Emilio's is a cute little place right on Colfax, but don't let that scare you, it's quite clean inside. It's really cheap and offers pretty good chile, authentic, fast Mexican food. Its a great spot for lunch, though it can get a bit busy. Viva burritos!
(4)
d t.
I show up there at 8am and they're barely open. it is a cool place.The smothered french fries with green chile is really good.So darn tasty: a 14 inch oval plate of good french fries and the lovely green chile on top. I could live on this stuff.This place feels like a family. The light coming in the broad windows facing Colfax light up the place.I just want this place to win.Parking on Colfax is a quarter per half hour-not so bad. P.S. French Fries smothered with gravy reminds me of back east. I read this is a staple of "fine cuisine" in Canada.This dish at Emilio's is a nice approximation.
Sorry, Store hours have not been updated. If you are the owner of this restaurants. Please update the store hours.
Specialities
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Divey Noise Level : Loud Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
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.
Roger M.
My friends and I used to love this place but it's changed. The margarittas are now $1 more with less tequilla and more sour. It used to be fun but not anymore.
(1)Jason S.
Hmm.. I'm still really hungry. Maybe it's because they forgot my appetizer... And they were out of hot sauce! Errrrr.. How does a Mexican restaurant run out of hot sauce?!? They sent the two of us to a table with one chair and made us bug every other table looking for an extra chair. We won't be back. P.s. Bring your own cholula!!
(1)Megan N.
Couldn't get better mexican food for this cheap ANYWHERE in Denver. Love the huevos rancheros. So good! If you don't like loud busy places then Emilio's is not for you. Really good chips and salsa and their margs are only $1.75 on Thursday through Saturday. Only complaint- i wish they were open later. : ( they close at 9. If you havent been I recommend it. Great for happy hour and a bite! Cheese fries are bomb too!
(5)Stanly W.
It surprises me to see so many bad reviews. I don't doubt the veracity of the reviewer, but after going to this place several times (it's two blocks away) I'm pretty happy with it. The breakfast burritos are affordable. The green chili is authentic. The portions are gratifying. I'm really big on service. Even if the meal is good, if the service is bad, that ruffles my feathers to the degree where I just won't go back to the place again. No, I'll come home and revel in the scathing review I'll write here on Yelp. I'm big on service because I've been in service, and I know it doesn't kill anybody to smile and say hello to a customer. It doesn't hurt anybody to be patient and try to walk somebody through a menu if they've never been there before or they're unfamiliar with the fare. It's okay to make a friendly recommendation, and most people tend to appreciate the thought, even if they choose something else. The service here has been just fine for me, every time. And the margaritas will kick your butt.
(4)Kent T.
Rumbled into Emilio's on a rainy night, last weekend. It was packed, wall-to-wall and seemed like a "Mexican Greasy Spoon Joint". We were thinking about leaving, but then an enthusiastic waiter RAN up to us and asked us how many in our party. He then hopped outside, grabbed a table, dusted it off, re-arranged some other tables and made us a spot in a corner. After that, I was impressed.... dude actually WANTED us to eat there. The queso was pretty much green chile with cheese in it, but still damn good. The tacos al carbon were outstanding and was enough for two people. To top it off, they have some nifty drink specials: 1.75 margaritas and a bucket of 5 Coronas for 10 bucks (sadly, you don't get to keep the bucket, so my weekend sandcastle plans were foiled. Blast!). Unlike other happy hour/bargain margaritas around Denver, these actually tasted good! Not lemon-flavored KoolAid with salt and a trickle of bad tequila-- I would've been happy paying 4 bucks for each one.
(4)Nicholas O.
Great value, quick service. 3 cheers from me. There is definitely better Mexican fare around, but Emilio's suffices if you're in the neighborhood or on a lunch break. The salsa is weak but the chips crispy, salty, and flavorful. The burrito (bread) isn't always fluffy but the filling pleases. The best things about this place are that it's CHEAP and the wait staff are friendly and prompt. ¡Olé! Que dura.
(3)Noelle B.
Thank you to the Yelpers for reviewing this place. I was early for a meeting and hit up Emilio's. I had the 'B' combo plate. I didn't like the chicken taco that much, but the enchilada was on point. The chips and salsa were fantastic as well. The food came out quickly and the service was great. I will be back for some good and fast Mexican food!
(4)Nick W.
Being from Cincinnati, I find it hard to say "THIS IS THE BEST MEXICAN FOOD EVER!!!" given my lack of experience in the subject matter. That said, I can say "THIS IS THE BEST MEXICAN I HAVE EVER HAD!!!" with 100% confidence. I say this because every item I have had on the menu tastes great to me - that coupled with my love of great service = a great experience. The fact that I know Tony, Sergio and Andrea is a testament to them giving top notch service. Best Dish: Tacos al Carbon with Green Chili and a "Tour of Mexico" beer bucket.
(5)Erin W.
Not a huge fan of Mexican food, but when I'm in the mood I go to Emilio's. Tony typically works the counter and is sooo nice and Sergio works the kitchen and cooks up great food! One of the best things about the place is that it's on Colfax so it offers great people watching views (seriously it's amazing). You get a free margarita ever Friday during Happy Hour if you purchase one of their shirts AND you have to wear the shirt in the restaurant. So the t-shirt is worth the price if A. you like margaritas and B. plan on going to Emilio's frequently on Friday's. If you haven't tried it, you should give it a whirl!
(4)Derek W.
We have driven past this place so many times and always say "We need to try that place". Finally did a couple weeks ago and went back for a second time last week. This place is great! The food definitely tastes good, the staff very friendly and attentive, and the margarita happy hour.... who can pass that up! Great food, great prices, great place!
(5)mellany c.
First.. I had a breakfast burrito.. It was alright.. But one, I'm still starving.. And two.. What kind of mexican restaurant runs out of hot sauce... When they're only have full??? I wait around for hot sauce.. My waitress seemed to disappear into the abyss.
(1)BA M.
Some of these reviews are funny. Can't please some people. I'm a native and grew up in North Denver before the Yuppie implosion, so I know how rare it is to find decent mexican food. Yes, there are better places, but none so close to downtown. Benny's has ALWAYS been a joke, and anything comparable is either too far, or too expensive, or just not all that. As someone who works downtown, I'm grateful to have a place close for takeout.... That being said, it defies common sense why they don't cater to a late-night crowd. They have a liquor license and close before 10 p.m., when most of us freaks don't even go out before 11. They better change their ways with the new expansion... P.S. I still miss the Walnut Cafe.
(4)Henry G.
I wanted to add an update to my last review. Emilio's has become one of my fav Uptown breakfast stops because they open at 8am. And I agree with Megan who said the huevos rancheros are so0o good!. I'm an early riser, so when I wake up hungry on the weekend, I can't wait until 10am for Brunch. Emilio's is open early and they serve great breakfast dishes both American style and Mexican style. Low prices, good food and a serving so large you'll not be hungry again till 2 pm.
(3)Mr. T.
Is the food the best? no. Is the service the best? Probably not, but not terrible either. Knowing all that, I still find myself drawn to this place. It's a fantastic place to stop before a concert. Cheap strong margs and burritos. If they raise prices, I may not return. Gotta have the margaritas though. My friends and I have developed a sort of dilemma with this place though. If we start our night here, we don't remember the end of the night. Enjoy!!!
(5)Brandt W.
There's nothing more comforting when I drive North down Logan Street across Colfax than seeing that huge green and black banner still hanging outside of this hole in the wall, diamond in the rough. "What does the banner say?", you curiously ask. [MARGARITAS $1.75 THURS-SAT 4PM-CLOSE] "$1.75?!?... No way, that must be a misprint or something dude!" Negative. Not only is it correct, but they somehow continue this amazing deal even though they have clearly made a name for themselves. Now, I don't know how long Emilio's has been in business, but I do know that most assume $1.75 margaritas have to be as cheap and generic as they come. Again, those people would be wrong. These margaritas are really good, and there's little skimping on the tequila too. No skimping at all actually. What's more, the food is as good and inexpensive as the margaritas, allowing for a person to get 2 steak tacos ($2.50 each) and 2 margaritas for under $10. Did I mention those 2 steak tacos can actually be made into 4 steak tacos given the double tortilla they make them with? Add the basket of chips and very good salsa (spicy), and that's quite a steal. Oh and their breakfast burritos are some of the best I've had in Denver. There are a few negative aspects of dining at Emilio's that I do need to point out though. Afterall, dinner and drinks that cheap have to come at a price, right? 1. It is on Colfax and not exactly the greatest area of Colfax, so... it's on Colfax. 2. The service is rarely even adequate, thus you have to be patient. The owner/manager is a really friendly guy though. 3. Bathrooms are weak and dirty 4. It's really small - not a great place for large groups. I'd suggest 4 at most so you're not cramped and waiting 5. First basket of chips is free, but they charge you after that. When did this become an accepted practice?! I feel like it randomly sprouted up at every Mexican restaurant one day and I don't like it at all. 6. Emilio's will slip one by you with "add-ons". They'll ask if you want your entree or dish with cheese, etc. and then will charge you extra for it. I think cheese goes for something like $.75 7. They like to close early - 9-9:30ish, so you'll start to get some looks and even less service as that time approaches. 8. They are not open on Sundays. Overall, I say the food and margs outweigh the bad, so go ahead and give it a try.
(4)Ashley N.
AMAZING chorizo and potato tacos!!! Will definitely be back and will tell everyone about this Colfax gem!
(5)M A.
It's hard to find vegan mexican food that's at least somewhat authentic tasting. Emilio's offers a potato taco plate that can be made vegan with no cheese. I've only lived in Denver since December but this is hands down my favorite mexican restaurant. Super cheap food and margs ($1.75 during happy hour!) fun atmosphere, great service and they're open late!
(5)Don C.
Best Mexican food I have had outside Tucson! Prices were excellent , staff was cheerful and attentive. At a Technology conference and will try to go back while i am in town. Reccomended
(5)Geenie C.
Still the best deal in town for amazing carnitas and breakfast burritos. The breakfast burritos are so big they just fold them in half and all for under $5!!!! I have cravings for the carnitas plate and green chili that cannot be remedied unless it's from Emilio's. My one wish is that they were open on Sunday's for those lazy days that need to start off with a big burrito.
(4)Kate K.
I am here at least every Thursday if not more often and with a group of 5-8 friends. The margaritas are deliciously strong and plentiful and $1.75 on Thursday-Saturday 4pm-9pm. Some say the staff is mean. Some say its waaayyy too crowded. Babies. It is crowded because the staff will never pressure or kick you out (even after close), but you can make reservations, and they also offer take out. The service is quick and the staff tries to get on a first-name basis with their customers. Most importantly though, the food is also delicious, quick, and cheap. Breakfast all day (burritos are awesome). Superb and spicy green chile. Mouth-watering potatoes. Tasty, amazing carne asada. They give you more food than you ever thought was coming to the table because it cost you $2-$6 dollars. The owner (Emilio) is spirited and kind, and sometimes leads a sort of "the wave" with clapping and chanting joyously through the whole restaurant. Its a family, and worth the wait!
(5)Robert A.
And now, for breakfast: The location used to be home to another breakfast staple: The Walnut Cafe. I was sad to see it go, but relieved to find it now occupied by cheap delicious mexican food. this place has amazing breakfast burritos. Seriously, they're really great and cheap ($4). Egg, potato, green chile and cheese with choice of carnitas (like, always) or chorizo or italian susage or all of it together or none of it all. I am not so sure about the lunch, all i've had the chance to eat is the cheese enchiladas, which should never be a judge...
(4)Tom R.
Denver has some of the best Mexican restaurants in the nation, this one is really just average and maybe gets an extra 1/2 star just because these is nothing great around the Capitol and this can be a convenient Mexican food fix. The food is a little better than average, and I would agree with the reviewer who talked about the breakfast burritos, they are pretty good and very filling. There is nothing "spicy" here for anyone who likes their food hot like I do, but the chips and salsa are pretty good. HOWEVER, they hose you on this as after the first basket, which is really not that big, they start charging you per basket. They can only get away with this because they are the only game in town for the 2-3 blocks around the Capitol. I would rather they just start by saying $2 for unlimited chips etec...., but because of this, I really prefer getting in my car and going to one of the many "great" places within 2-3 miles of the Capitol. It's a principle thing....in a pinch, this will do, but nothing to "plan" your day around.
(3)Ryan C.
Great food but not fine dining. P.S. just the right price!
(3)Tom S.
A tale of two Emilio's. If you partake inside, I've always been able to get seated by the window and had the best cheap margs and mexican food in Denver. Of course you can pay 3 times more and get perhaps 1 times better product but the value ratio speaks for itself. Then there is the outside patio. I've never had a clean experience, the orders aren't right and the service is much slower. The upside to the patio is that it is prime hipster watching territory and you can keep an eye on your scooter. That is all.
(4)Nicholas ..
$1.75 Margaritas that are strong and delicious! The food is pretty run of the mill Mexican food. Best part is how cheap you can get full and buzzed.
(4)Amy M.
I am compelled to write a review because I just discovered the place and had a great experience. I would encourage those who wrote reviews a few years ago when it opened to give it a second chance! I went with a group of friends and had the (very substantial!) $1.75 margaritas for happy hour. Wow. Chips and salsa were also good. I did not order any food but my friends did, and I didn't hear any complaints. Overall it has a comfortable atmosphere, good prices, and friendly and attentive staff.
(4)Thomas S.
Eh? There is really nothing good or bad to say about the place. They deliver what you'd expect. Their salsa was decent. Green chile was good. The burrito was okay. Service was quick, efficient and friend...and not overly sufficating. Overall, it makes a good lunch quickie.
(3)karen l.
i will never go back here they ignore me few times thats it. there are so many good places to try in capitol hill. besides it is a dirty place.
(1)C D.
There are many choices when it comes to mexican restaurants in Denver. The kitchen is accomodating and the salsa actually has some heat. Still there is better tasting mexican food for comparable prices.
(2)Christina H.
Emilio's is a cute little place right on Colfax, but don't let that scare you, it's quite clean inside. It's really cheap and offers pretty good chile, authentic, fast Mexican food. Its a great spot for lunch, though it can get a bit busy. Viva burritos!
(4)d t.
I show up there at 8am and they're barely open. it is a cool place.The smothered french fries with green chile is really good.So darn tasty: a 14 inch oval plate of good french fries and the lovely green chile on top. I could live on this stuff.This place feels like a family. The light coming in the broad windows facing Colfax light up the place.I just want this place to win.Parking on Colfax is a quarter per half hour-not so bad. P.S. French Fries smothered with gravy reminds me of back east. I read this is a staple of "fine cuisine" in Canada.This dish at Emilio's is a nice approximation.
(3)Richard R.
Staff, location and margaritas - oh my! For sure the three reasons I keep coming back to Emilio's. You can't beat the price, it's in the hood and I always always always get polite service! First, the employees here are very friendly (and cute for the most part) which goes a long way even when the place is packed and the food takes some time to come out. A friendly employee does a lot to alleviate the wait time. Speaking of food - meh. Being a picky eater when it comes to Mexican food is just how I roll. Hardly anything is as good as Grandma's cooking and this place doesn't come close. Still, it's decent and edible but nothing to call home about. The margaritas are cheap and strong even though you can't really taste the booze. They do a good job of masking the tequila flavor but I know it's in there cuz I get a solid buzz fo sho! Overall I like this place and wouldn't hesitate to go back. A fairly inexpensive time for the amount of food you get. A-OK. Solid. Bueno.
(3)Leah P.
I'm a big Emilio's fan. Good luck finding anything there that's "light" or "healthy", but if you're prepared to stuff your face with some deliciously fattening Mexican food, you've found the spot. Quality-wise, the food is a couple steps up from other cheap Mexican in the area (I dream about the potato-sausage tacos...), but it's probably pretty bad for you. In the summer, their patio has accommodated some of my weirder interactions with Colfax riff raff, and the people-watching is unparalleled. They do stiff margarita pitchers for a very reasonable price too, making this one of my favorite spots for grub on Colfax.
(4)Rick N.
I would love to review this place however I was unable to get in. I am disabled and tried to go through the door but could not. So I tried to call to have someone let me in and the phone was busy. So I went around to the window to wave down the bartender when she saw me she turned and walked away. Then I went home and called to complain and spoke to the owner. She said that I was welcome to come back as if it was super easy for me to do. And when I mentioned the phone was busy she said this is a business and they get calls. I said that it must be nice to be able to turn away customers. There are too many other places that know how to cater to all types of clientele unfortunately this not one. I guess it would have been nice to have an apology instead the owner denied the event even happened!
(1)Faith M.
People. Thursday-Satuday you can get 16oz margaritas for 1.75. I mean do I even need to review anymore. Jeez. I think the food is good but Mexican food isn't something I'm well versed in so if you're really into Mexican food don't take my word for it. The reason I'm knocking them one star is because they close pretty early, like 9, but I probably would too if I was operating a business on Colfax. On the flip side the people watching is amazing.
(4)Jonathan C.
$1.75 margs.... say what, yes there is a 4 marg limit but just don't act like its your prom night and you wont be turned down. I wouldnt rave about the food but I always split the nachos but you do get FREE!!!! chips and salsa. I suggest next time you're in the neighborhood and say "lets go to a dive bar" try this place out
(4)Lindsey K.
One of my favorite chili rellenos in Denver, $1.75 margaritas, yes please!
(4)Alissa R.
In all reality, I don't really need to write about my experiences here-Tiffany W's review pretty much sums it up. It had been years since I ventured into this, and now I remember why. A friend and I were in the area and they had expressed a craving for 'sit down/fast Mexican food' and this is where we ended up. Yes they have those cheap margaritas...err, um if you could even call them that- I, too had to slam mine or forfeit the entire drink cost (it wasn't during happy hour.) Terrible with a capital T. The salsa had some flavor but was riddled with a tad too much salt. My friend opted for a combo of sorts and I got a guacamole tostada with a side of re-fried beans. Everything was bland, so good thing for that salty salsa, we needed it to season everything. On my way to the restroom, I caught a glimpse into the back area where it seems they wash the dishes and it was pretty murky....our server was nice to comp a 2nd bowl of chips and salsa (only the first one is complimentary, beware) but only did so because we ordered a side of sour cream and guacamole, which are a dollar each. I wish I could give it at least one more star but that just doesn't seem fair. Sorry Emilio's.
(2)Tiffany W.
Oh, man. It's hard to go wrong with $1.75 margaritas ...actually, it's really easy to go wrong with $1.75 margaritas. Good thing they limit four. But for me, the limit was one. And barely. The first thing that came to mind after the first few sips (because I had to be sure) was: "toilet water". Not that I have any idea, but the color... and something about the mixer. It hit me like toilet cleaner water. In the sinuses. Or something. It was awful. So I slammed the first one and that was it. But it's nice to know I still have some principle, price is right or not. The food? Well, something tells me it would have been much better if I'd been able to stomach the margs. The salsa was good; a nice mix with a kick (but not too much), but the chips were almost chewy. Like they hadn't been fried long enough? I ordered the potato tacos because they sounded delish. I was thinking it'd be soft corn torts, but instead it was greasy, more chewy than crispy half-fried (grilled?) corn torts with melty cheese and more grease in potato form. The guac was generous, which I appreciated. The tacos came with rice and beans (standard sides, nothing memorable), and some kind of green salsa. I ate it, but I regretted it afterwards. Total gut bomb. But again, I can see where a following might be forming here (following the booze, that is). Would I eat here again? Maybe. Nothing really to bring me back any time soon, but certainly not the worst place my coworkers could have picked (I'm looking at you--ANYWHERE on the 16th Street Mall...). They won't split checks, so come prepared with cash, or hope your credit limit or account balance will cover the tab and that none of your friends will screw you over by not paying their parts. I'm teetering between two and three stars, but I'm giving three since I don't feel strongly enough about coming back here or not. Conclusion: it's a Mexi-joint on Colfax with $1.75 margaritas. Anything could happen.
(3)Proteus D.
Came here for a working lunch. I had the Mahi Mahi fajitas. Which were unique and all in all pretty tasty. However way over salted, I had a dry mouth for the rest of the day. I don't eat dairy or meat and so was pretty shocked to discover that the beans were cooked in lard. Errrr....gross. I only found this out when I pushed the waitress to confirm they were meat free. Even though I asked in advance for a non meat / dairy plate.
(3)Adam H.
I've eaten here twice. The first time I had one of there combo platters. It was your run of the mill smothered plate of random Mexican food items. This last time I had the grilled tacos. I would go back for these. The service is relatively slow but very friendly. I wouldn't drive a long distance to go to this place but if you live in Uptown and are looking for decent Mexican food. It gets the job done.
(3)D N.
I go here strictly for the breakfast burritos. After a long night of drinking, there's nothing better to set you right the next morning. My favorite is the egg, potato, bacon with cheese. Comes with green chili inside which ads some great flavor. I've never had anything else there, so I'm rating them on the burrito only.
(4)Kelly T.
I'll admit it. I don't go to this place for the food. I go there for the drinks. More specifically, the $1.75 margaritas they have from 4-9 Thursday through Saturday. Even MORE specifically, the incredibly strong, limit of four per customer, your night is either done or about to take a turn for the very interesting after you reach your limit margaritas. I'm talking walking through the McDonald's drive thru, trying to place an order on foot interesting. They also have really great beer specials for those of you that like a little hops with your burrito. Jim Gaffigan has a bit where he talks about how all Mexican food is all the same: tortilla with meat, beans, cheese and rice. While I don't think this is the case with those amazing hole in the wall taquerias, it is the case with this place. If you want something decent and cheap, come here. And if you want my recommendation, I like the beef tacos. The service is good and you can usually get a seat, though it does get really loud after about 7. They're expanding right now, so they'll be able to seat even more patrons jonesing for one of their sweet, sweet margs.
(3)Anthony N.
Okay, I've been here about a dozen times now since moving into the Colfax 'hood', and this place has constantly delivered. Not only is it the perfect place for dirt-cheap margaritas, PBRs, and buckets of Corona, you get one of the tastiest, cheapest burritos drenched in green chili sauce that money can buy. And man, are they fan-frickin-tastic good. The place also has a surprisingly large amount of good lookin' customers coming in and out, I've noticed. Maybe it's just the time of day I end up showing my face there, but hawt-damn. Good Mexican with pretty scenery on Colfax? You don't see that everyday.
(5)Kelsey S.
Went to Emilio's for the first time last night after hearing about good food and cheap margaritas. They offer a special on Monday nights, for $16 you get two combination plates and a liter of margaritas. It was more than enough food and margs to go around! The rellenos were super delicious! As others have mentioned, the ambiance and the staff aren't anything to write home about, but for the prices, you really can't complain!
(4)Pablo R.
I had hesitated on going to this place for a while but gave it a try anyway. Needless to say this place was great. I had their chorizo and potatoe tacos and they are so delicious. They had great chips and salsa and their margaritas were cheap and very good. I would definitely recommend this place if you are looking for good Mexican food and great margaritas. Not to mention they have 2.25 margaritas from 6-close. The staff is great and always make the customers feel like family. I have been back many many times and have recommended to a ton of my friends of which they all loved it. We are now loyal customers of this restaurant. Check it out and I'm sure you will love it too. Good suggestions: -Chorizo and potato tacos -Grilled tacos with either type Of meat -carne asada plate -fajitas -carnitas plate -mahi mahi tacos -chile relleño plate -basically anything with green chile!!!!!
(5)Joseph H.
Friendly service, and the best breakfast burrito I've ever had (emilio's special with cheese).
(5)Will P.
This is a great little gem amid the gross Chinese food, overpriced Burger and brew joints and the....ahem...colorful cast that roams Colfax. The margs SEEM weak at first, but they hit later. I suggest getting green chili with anything you get. It's really good. Finally, I found my own little hole in the wall between my home and my bus stop. No surprise I've been here almost every night in the past three weeks. UPDATE: Because of a few unfortunate visits in recent weeks, I have decided to blackball this place due to poor customer service and downright rudeness on behalf of one singular employee. Until she's gone, I shall not return. Too bad... For them.
(4)Agi D.
Emilio's is one of those places that never disappoint me. Anything I ever ordered I liked. Even the fish tacos. On Colfax. For cheap. And those margaritas. Can't beat it.
(5)Ambra G.
I have to be honest here. I am a vegetarian, and these guys nearly killed me with their cross contamination. I was also pregnant in my first trimester experiencing morning sickness when I bit into my worst food nightmare.. a tostada, which was lard free and meat free as all are... I bit in a sunk my teeth into a disgusting huge piece of meat.. steak or pork (which I am allergic to). I knew the texture and immediately spit it out as fast as I could, choking, dramatically gasping and eventually puking into their toilet. It was my first time and the LAST time I will ever go there. Besides, there are roaches all over that place.. I don't care how great their margaritas are or how cool their colfax patio is for people watching. it doesn't mean anything if you are eating poison. DISGUSTINg and DISGRACEFUL. they didn't even offer a solution, just said, oh.. sorry.
(1)Kristin N.
I went here earlier this summer, about a month and a half ago, and unfortunately did not try the $1.75 Margaritas. I have heard they are the staple for this restaurant. I will probably come back here for just this reason. On the particular occasion I went here, we sat outside on the Patio. This turned out to be a very bad idea, as we were continuously harassed by homeless people. I think in the hour that we were there we were asked for money at least 3 different times. Unfortunately, the close proximity to a shady part of Colfax is what causes this problem. Next time I'll sit inside. I ordered mahi mahi tacos, but was unimpressed when they arrived with simply just mahi mahi and nothing else in them. I mean where was the lettuce, etc.? But, I have to admit that my friend ordered the Chicken Enchilada plate and quite enjoyed it. The service also really sucked this day. It took our waitress so long to bring us our check that I had to go inside and find her. I'm hoping this is not normal, or only attributed to the fact that we were sitting outside. While this review isn't that great, I admit that with the close proximity to my house I will probably go back here. But, next time I'll sit inside, order a cheap margarita, and go with enchiladas. I've heard alot of good reviews, and was sad I wasn't greatly impressed.
(3)Toni D.
$1.75 Margaritas is awesome! Located right at Colfax and Logan. Since it's right on Colfax it can be quite entertaining watching the people walk by on Colfax. The margaritas are pretty refreshing on a hot summer day. I ordered the ground beef nachos and loved them. Not the best I've had but after a few margaritas they taste pretty darn good. However, I was warned to stay away from the fish tacos and nacho cheese sauce on the nachos. So, make sure to ask for melted shredded cheese. If the weather is nice sit out on the patio and enjoy.. So, my friends warned me they have a 4 drink maximum.. I'm not sure they really keep tracked especially since our bill was not accurate.
(3)Elin N.
This place is a staple for breakfast burritos. The bacon & egg with potato & green chili. The $1.75 margaritas are a great touch!
(5)Joseph M.
This place is pretty sweet. I don't think I've ever had a bill over $35 for two people, two entree's and 5 margs. The food is speedy and I really can't find better crispy relleno's anywhere in Denver. I would've given it 5 stars except the service seems to be stellar until you get your food. On numerous occasions it's taken 10-15 minutes to get a server back over once our food has arrived despite empty marg glasses.
(4)john g.
All of us enjoyed lunch the other day. The crispy tacos were better than average. They should be more generous with the chips because it's a small amount with no free refills (and this was for 3 adults). The service was relaxed but friendly. Would return if I'm in the area and am craving basic Mexican food.
(3)Carolyn M.
The service at Emilios is not good, especially when the place is packed (which it often is). However, the margaritas are cheap ($1.75) and you should have a nice little buzz after drinking 4 (yes, unfortunately there is a limit). The food was nothing spectacular, but I would order the carne asada for dinner again. The smothered breakfast burritos are where it's at, and likely the reason for my 4-star rating. I'll definitely be back!
(4)Adrian P.
The 1.75 margaritas are about the only thing this restaurant has going for them. The food sucks and the margaritas were weak. They taste like kool aid mix and no frozen margaritas. Oh and $2 for more chips? I could buy a bag of chips for cheaper. No thank you the place isnt even fancy...ill go somewhere better for mexican food and drinks.
(1)Scott V.
great service, good food & always a good lunch special. They get the food out quickly here during the lunch rush. The grilled tacos are awesome!
(4)Carly B.
This place RULES. Had heard about their $1.75 happy hour margarita and wasn't sure if we'd be too late. I figured it didn't matter since if the happy hour price is $1.75, their regular price is probably only like $3 or $4 anyway. The chips and salsa were tasty, just the right amount of spice in the salsa and I didn't feel like I'd have to be taken out on a stretcher after (Lime, I'm looking at you). In fact, even though the salsa was gone long before the chips were, the chips weren't too bad on their own and I usually view the chips as merely conduits for dips. That's saying something. I ordered a couple of ala carte items (guacamole tostada and cheese enchilada) and my friend got the chili rellano plate. Everything came out super fast, warm, and gooey. Now, it wasn't the BEST Mexican food I've ever had, but it surely hit the spot. And that's not the point here anyway. The point is that the service was great. Our server was super attentive and even though the place was packed, they found a chair for a third friend to join us about halfway through for a margarita and they didn't act put out at all. Two meals and five margaritas later, we received the "damage". Twenty-four measly dollars. You can't beat that! Screw Benny's, I'm going to Emilio's from now on.
(4)Julio T.
Good Mexican food in Denver isn't hard to find. You can almost pick a place at random and find more than adequate burritos with that great green chili pork gravy so common in this city. So Emilio's is only okay and in Denver, okay Mexican food just doesn't cut it. The chili is watery and under-spiced. The beans are thin and taste canned. The meats are just bland. And the place is kind of overpriced: $5+ for just a burrito is a bit much unless its Chipotle big. Yeah, the margaritas are good and well-priced and really in a lot of other cities this place would be decent or maybe even great. But in Denver (even in east Denver), there are many good Mexican restaurants, so I just don't see the need for a mediocre one.
(2)Frances M.
It's nothing fancy but the food is good and the margs are cheap (especially during happy hour). It's not overly done and that's why I like it.
(4)Jason W.
Fantastic everything. Cheap drinks and delicious food. The relleno was superb.
(5)Karl C.
This is a good place in the cap hill area. kinda divey and slow but decent food at a decent price. not much else to say. because of their location gets busy fri./sat. nites.
(3)Jerad E.
Nice hole-in-the-wall Mexican place. Totally love their cheese enchiladas and the margarita deal cant be beat: $1.75 margaritas! Been here a few times and haven't had any problems with service and the food comes out quick even when the place is packed on a Friday night. Good chips and salsa. My only complaint is they're not open for my Sunday Mexican food cravings.
(4)Dana R.
To quote my hubbo, "this is good, sloppy Mexican food"...Amen brotha. Go for Combo B. Hungry? Don't panic. Pick up on a Sunday night at 630 should take about 7 minutes!
(3)Sarah F.
First off, as most of the other reviews have noted, this place has freaking awesome $1.75 margaritas. They limit you to 4, but that's all you need! They are delicious, and decently strong. I ordered a chimichanga with carnitas from here the other day, and oh god it was delicious. Lots of cheesey goodness, plus beans, rice, lettuce, tomato, sour cream and a huge hunk of guac!!! The only thing is, they won't split checks. This is kind of a pain when you go in a group of people, unless you just plan on using cash.
(4)Felicia F.
I went here in the summer with a friends before a meeting and I didn't really like it. I order a large nacho and the meat and cheese were really watery. My friend also order taquitos and she said they tasted like they didn't have any seasoning in them. I wouldn't recommend this to anyone who like good Mexican. Sorry but I just didn't like the food.
(2)Jessica D.
The cheap-o (and surprisingly strong) margaritas are what originally brought me into Emilio's, but I actually like their food too. Quick, inexpensive, and tasty! I have a hard time making it over there for breakfast but their smothered breakfast burritos are awesome as well. Unfortunately they're closed on sunday mornings, which is when my breakfast burrito cravings seem to peak hardcore. haha Emilio's is a little on the divey side but not too shabby. I'm not going to say the food here is so good it will change your life, but if you're looking for a quick (and very reasonably priced) plate of mexican food it's tasty and worth the trip. The few times I've been in there they don't seem big on splitting checks for people (not sure if that's the rule or just the server's preference), and I believe they have a credit card minimum of $5 or so. That doesn't seem like a big deal, but that's pretty hard to exceed if you're just getting a single item.
(3)Amanda P.
Nothing stands out to me for this place. Cheap margs that taste decent. That's all I remember! Everything else was meh.
(3)Rachel C.
This place is the textbook definition of serviceable. If you're in the mood for some greasy, green-chile laden dinners and cheap margs (ask for extra limes, trust me) you've come to the right place. Menu standouts incude the breakfast burritos- any of them- smothered with cheese, carnitas and eggs, grilled tacos, chimichangas and smothered fries with steak. The servers are friendly but often stretched thin throughout the restaurant and patio, so just keep that in mind when you're trying to get it on that $1.75 weekend marg deal. You get what you pay for, after all.
(4)Melissa J.
We used to live near them and were regulars enough that they still recognize us. You just can't beat $1.75 margaritas! They're $3 other nights which is still pretty good. Their green chili is some of the best. Sometimes I get a pint to go and pour it over brown rice and chicken at home. The carne asada is amazing, the rellenos are good too. Good enough that I haven't really tried much else. My husband always gets the smothered fries- very indulgent. Now that we've moved farther away we eat at the local Mexican dive and while it's ok, I miss Superchef immensely.
(4)Nikki K.
CLOSED. Went here and there was a sign on the door that it was seized. Someone walking by said they haven't paid taxes
(1)Thaddius B.
Nothing super amazing or unique but if your near by and are hungry for some Mexican not a bad choice. The margs were nothing special cheap mix that was too sweet and syrupy for me but for under 2 bucks what do you expect plus I am not a huge marg fan anyway. I have eaten here a couple times and will go back price is right and food is good.
(3)Beau W.
Another place I stumbled on because of their close proximity to my house. What a great find. They have great happy hour specials. As well as great daily specials for food. An example would be chicken enchiladas for 5 or 6 bucks. 1990 prices! Even if you don't get one of the specials, it is very cheap. I love the steak chimichanga plate. The green chili is really good. The seasoning on the steak inside is perfect. The best part of this place is the salsa. It's the best salsa I have ever had. Normally when I say this, I follow up with "besides mine." Not this time. I wish I could make a salsa like this. Fresh tasting and seasoned perfectly. Best Tex-Mex in town!
(5)Robin P.
Well hello there $1.75 margarita on Thursday-Saturday nights. I didn't see you sneak up on me so fast, along with your 3 buddies (they limit you at 4 margaritas. At least that's what the sign says, but if you ask nicely... Just saying). Beware. I've left here a few times not knowing where I was going or what my name was. Darn it, tequila. The service is always good I think. They may be starting to recognize me though, but that's how I like it. Usually fast and attentive. Besides the killer weekend happy marg deal, Monday-Wednesday, you can order a pitcher of margaritas, and 2 combination plates for $16 ALTOGETHER. I'm a cheap date. The food here is pretty tasty, and I've tried a lot of things here. My favorite (especially before a night of drinking): CHILI CHEESE FRIES. Can I get an amen for this plate of heaven, piled high with fried potatoes, chunky pork green chili, and copious amounts of cheese? Can I get another AMEN? Say it with me now. They are closed on Sunday, which is a bummer, because sometimes I crave Mexican food on the Lord's day. And the bathrooms are dank, but I put up with it (those margaritas have to go somewhere, am I right?). Oh, and the namesake of the restaurant, Emilio? He's there, working the tables and helping the family out. Colfax Mexican food? I love you.
(4)Ali L.
CLOSED - as of at least 1/28/15.
(4)Pam C.
Tough to rate this place! I wanted somewhere casual where I can show up in hiking clothes/no makeup. In the seedy area of Colfax. Walked in at almost 2pm. One hostess and one server. The server takes his sweet time. But, I'm not in a huge hurry, except I'm ready for a margarita! The hostess brings me my marg. I ordered the grilled tacos. Decadent! Surprisingly wonderful. Service got better. I sat across from a table that had a pretty poor looking couple at it. I asked to pay for their check. I hope it made them happy - it sure made me feel good! I think if you're in the area, check this place out. Parking can be a bitch, but I did leave there a happy camper with plans to return.
(4)Lana K.
If you want delicious food, come here! Emilio's is a small local restaurant with some of the best Mexican food I've ever eaten. The wait staff is attentive and welcoming! A daily feature is 3.00 margaritas that are soooo delicious! If you're looking for a casual local place to eat, you're gonna love this place! Chris has been my server a few times now and he has such a welcoming personal touch to his service. You'll become a regular once you come once!
(5)Sylvia D.
So, I really liked this place. I am always looking for a new mexican restaurant to try that has good food and good margaritas. This was the place. I ordered the barbacoa chimichanga and it was delicious. The refried beans were perfect and the green chili that they smothered it with was on point. Chips and salsa was excellent. The Margaritas? Oh my, my, my.......let's just say I'll be back again, again and again.
(5)John S.
The food is good, but not great. I ordered the beef and bean burrito with cheese, sauce, and salad. Strange small burrito, more like a taco shape. Service was friendly and fast, but with so many other tex mex options in Denver, I doubt I'll be back.
(3)Katrina D.
This is a nice lunch place for people that work near the state capitol. The staff is friendly, especially Tony, our server. The chips and salsa is one of the best in the city. I also like the grilled tacos and the salsa that comes with them. Also, a great place for a happy hour margarita.
(4)Krystal M.
To be honest... I was hesitant to go here... there are mixed reviews. However, I'm glad the bf convinced me. It was perfect for a Friday afternoon when you need a cheap margarita after a long week. Y'all weren't kidding about these cheap, strong $1.75 margaritas. They were bomb! Seriously... I was really surprised. I had a good little buzz after just 2 of them. I got a carnitas quesadilla, the bf got tacos. The food was meh, not great, not bad... I was hoping for fried crispy type carnitas, it wasn't. Just boiled. I got a side of guac, bad idea... it was $3 by itself and not that great. Our waiter was really nice and came by to check on us frequently and to replenish the magically strong margaritas. If you're sitting by the window be prepared to see some weirdness; some creepy lady blew me a kiss from the street (hey, it's Colfax, so its expected). The restroom was also pretty clean, so that was good as well. Oh and there's some outside seating as well as a few TVs inside. I'll be back for those margaritas!
(3)Lynn G.
Have always loved this place. Good cheap Mexican food and margarita pitchers. They won't split checks so remember to bring cash. Their cheese enchiladas are the best....
(5)Steve K.
Shut the Front Door! I've travelled all over this county and Emilio's Super Chef has one of the best breakfast breakfast burritos I've ever had...easily in the top 3 best I've ever eaten. I had Emilos Special burrito... Very generous portions, delicious green chili, and very reasonable prices. The green chili was hot enough to get my nose running, but not hot enough to burn my mouth. Great meal...you won't be disappointed.
(5)Caleb W.
If I could give it 0 stars I would. They charge you $2 for extra chips and salsa after the complementary one, and $1 for each salsa afterwards for your meal. The waitress told me the 'salsa had been abused in the past'. No Mexican restaurant does this. And splitting a check, not accepted in this rat hole of an establishment. This place is trying to squeeze every last dollar out of you, and they are disregarding the customer in the process. I do not recommend.
(1)Emily D.
I LOVE the potato tacos at Emilio's. My girlfriend and I come here almost biweekly to get them. They are loaded with yummy guacamole and delicious salsas with great rice and beans. The problem with Emilio's is the service. It is extremely slow. They seem to ever only have one waitress working at a time, and you start to feel bad for whoever is working. You can't even get a word in with them because they're running all over the place and frequently forgetting things. Definitely not the fault of the waiter, and the service is very friendly (we have had very lovely, friendly waiters), it just can take forever for the tacos to finally come. I will keep coming back here because of the tacos, despite the slow service.
(3)Alex K.
if your stomach can handle it-- I recommend this place Fair pricing, attentive and kind staff, usually places to sit, cheap margs. And--- awesome food (see note disclaimer above) It's on colfax so don't go here for anything classy, but if you are "____" you will fit in....
(3)Emma V.
My boyfriend and I went to emilios because we always drive past and its always crowded. We got there and were told to seat ourselves for the patio. It took five minutes to be greeted with chips and salsa and ordered our drinks. We then waited 15 minutes to have our waitress come to our table. She took our orders (i got a chicken burrito and my bf fajitas) after she left our table we saw her walk across the street to the liquor store and when she came back to the restaurant she had to come back to our table to reask my boyfriend what he wanted! We both had empty water glasses on our table ( we had to ask several times to have them refilled) when the food finally came out my boyfriends fajitas were burnt and the tortillas dried out. My burrito was more like a taco covered in sauce. while eating i found a chicken bone in my burrito and immediately lost my appetite so we asked for the check. After waiting another 10 minutes we found our waitress making out with some guy outside the kitchen and all the kitchen staff were outside smoking (ew). We finally got our check and left as quickly as possible, Definitely will not be returning!
(1)Scott P.
Everyone seems to love the margaritas here, but I didn't have one, so I can't accurately judge them. The food was mediocre at best- typical Mexican food made for white people. Blah blah blah boring, the chips were boring, the salsa was boring, the service was just fine, and I really don't have too much else to say about it... other than PEACE DENVER, I'M OUT, BITCHES!!!!
(3)Whitney M.
Emilio's offers two things: 1) Super-cheap, mess-you-up drinks 2) Stuff to put in your stomach as you indulge in item #1 They do have potato tacos for vegetarians, which is uncommon, and the food is decently priced. Don't go if you're in a hurry--they're usually slammed and, on the times I've been when they weren't slammed, service was pretty slow. But my oh my those margs. They're super sugary and I'm pretty certain there's everclear in there, which is why they won't serve you more than three or four--I can't remember the number at which you'll get cut off and there's a good reason I can't remember. It's usually a fun crowd and you can't go wrong with Colfax people watching. Plus you can get totes smashed for like, five bucks. Me gusta.
(3)Matt D.
I try to practice the "Don't-Judge-a-Book-by-It's-Cover" principal, but I will admit, I did initially judge Emilio's as a hole-in-the-wall Mexican dive; I couldn't understand why my friends insisted on going all the time. In turn, I didn't give the place a chance the first couple of times I went... ...but by the third visit I was hooked. The service is spectacular. One of the friendliest places to visit. Even if the food was terrible, I'd probably still go just to visit the staff. They're super friendly. The food is great. I actually eat lunch at Emilio's about three times a week now, and the $10 (on average) I drop at each visit is well worth it. I love that everything I get is spicy, but not TOO spicy! ;-) I highly recommend Emilio's to anyone looking for a quick, reasonably priced, delicious meal.
(4)Amber M.
My husband and I live really close to here and I was excited to finally make it in for one of the cheap margarita nights. I found that they're strong for the price and I now definitely understand the limit of 4. The chips were greasy, but my burrito was good and it arrived quickly. The guy that bussed our table was friendly and efficient. Our server was a little slow with the water, but then the bus guy took over water duties so I don't know whose responsibility it really was. Overall, the service was way better than the last time when the staff got confused, forgot to take our order for an eternity and got my order wrong. This time we sat inside because it looked like rain and were treated to America's worst hits on the radio/ipod/whatever was playing in there. I'm going to try for outside seating from now on. Despite the issues, the food is good (even when it's wrong), the staff is friendly (even when they're slow) and the margarita's are cheap and strong (a little pungent, even). We'll be back.
(3)Jessica J.
Who can resist $1.75 margaritas? I cannot... Kelly T. and I frequent this joint on Thursday, Friday or (ok...AND) Saturday. For a Buck and 3 qwartas, Kelly T and I was a little skeptical. We figured the margs would be more water than liquor. We were definitely wrong there! They have a 4 margarita limit.....for a reason, as I found out the moment I stumbled out of my chair toward the door. Oy vey! I must admit that I was a little afraid to try the food at first......but, after having their cheap but tasty tacos, I will never hesitate to order from the menu again. On their menu they offer a breakfast burrito as well. Now that I live in the hood, I might have to stop by for one on my way to work.
(4)James C.
Kind of a dump, but in my experiences dumps usually have pretty delicious food and Emilio's keeps that stereotype alive. The green chili was very tasty and the carne asada plate was delicious.
(4)A.J. T.
If i could marry Emilios, I would. First off, went during the 1.75 margarita time (4pm-close) and it was amazing. I thought with a price like that, I might get maybe a total of three shots of tequila within their 4 margarita limit. Def not the case; I had two margs before I decided on ordering the Green Chili and was hammered by the time it came. Yes, hammered. They don't play with the margaritas which made me fall in love at first buzz. Plus, they are mixed well. The chili was delicious (but take that with a grain of salt as I was wasted), the server was very attentive and nice, and the service all around was fast. What more could you ask for? Pros: Best deal on real margaritas in town. Food is good. Service is good. Cons: Not open on Sundays :( TE AMO, EMILIOS!!!
(5)laura h.
2-1/2 stars. I'm almost reluctant to review a place having eating only one or two of their items, but they do have crispy rather than soft-style rellenos, which is a huge plus in my book. I've had better - a couple of times I have found the coating a little too thick and almost underdone - but they're still pretty good, they're reasonably priced, and it's within walking distance of home. The salsa has decent flavor (be prepared for a thin, bottled-style picante salsa, like you actually get at a lot of the restaurants in Mexico, not fresh tomato based, pico-style "salsa".) The chips are weird - again, a little too thick, and therefore a little chewy, like they've absorbed too much oil, but the flavor is good, not overly salted. I'm not a marg drinker, so I can't review those, but people say they're good, and they're probably a good part of this place's popularity. It is right on Colfax, so you may have very down and out people walking by and watching you dine out, through the window. Would I drive across town for their foo? No. But when I have a hankering for a relleno, it serves, and they do single sopapillas, too. They have TV/videos on all the time, which I don't much care for. The servers will quickly remember you ("Relleno, enchilada-style?" "Yes, thank you.") Probably best-suited for a night out with friends, after work or on the weekend, with margaritas as the priority, but the food is a little better than adequate. Better than Benny's (why in God's name do people like that place?)
(3)Anna F.
-- 1.75 $ margaritas between 4pm and closing time. In case you haven't noticed from previous reviews or the large banner outside. They had me at hello. -- despite their small price (and lots of ice), we found the drinks strong. Hence the 4 margarita per p
(4)Andrea R.
I believe the food was good but not worth going back because of the experience. What gets them the low rating is their service - don't expect an hour lunch at this place. I think it took them almost 30 minutes to bring our food which is not so cool when you are in a time crunch. Also - you have to keep on them for refills and service of any kind. Also the waitress had a sour attitude - not sure why she was mad when we asked for more chips like we were bothering her and to top it off she rudely said - "You know it costs $2 bucks don't you?" We replied yes but not sure why we should had to pay for them considering the wait time. So once the food arrived we had to eat as fast as can be because we had to get back to work. We also asked for the check as soon as the food arrived which should have been a clue to any normal waitress that we were dissatisfied - but hey what do I know I only waited tables for 3 years. If they would have cared to ask us about our service believe me I would have told them but from the looks of it, this establishment does not care. Maybe they do the cheap margaritas to offset their crappy service and wait staff. Don't think I will be going back anytime soon.
(1)Eric T.
Ah Emilio's... a great place for good Mexican food and cheap drinks on Colfax. I've gone here many times and have always had good food and a great waitstaff. The burritos are great basic food and for lunch come with green chili inside. You can also get them smothered with cheese, which is my preferred way. I went with a friend recently and he is a big carne asada fan. He really enjoyed his meal and loved the green chili. Another of my favorites is the green chili cheese fries. Nothing better on a hungover morning than spicy green chili, fried potatoes, all covered with cheese. Mmmm! Drinks are always reasonable. As you've probably seen in the other reviews they have cheap margaritas ($1.75) and good bucket specials. So, come on down to Emilio's and grab a drink, some food, and amazing Colfax people watching!
(4)David C.
Me: Colorado native and Mexican food lover. Often have to search Denver high and low to find a decent Mexican food restaurant. I have been going to Emilio's for nearly 8 years (I work downtown). Its food is alway consistent and service is always prompt and friendly. Okay-the important stuff: The free chips and salsa: Really good! Chips are perfect-they always come out warm and are not too thick or too thin and the salsa is not too thick nor thin and has the perfect heat. Their rellenos are absolutely some of the best in Denver, and their supreme burrito IS the best in Denver. The Chimichangas are also excellent. Finally, their green chili is truly outstanding!! You won't believe the quality of food here--alway authentic--and the extremely affordable cost of it. You can't go wrong. Great food, great green chili, great servce and amazing price. For lunch I usually get two bean tostadas (just $4 !!) and a relleno on the side somothered in green chili(just $3,50).
(4)Gianni D.
Come for the happy hour.Thurs- Sun $1.75 Margs from 3- close. Cheap Margaritas and a plate of chips of salsa, is always a good way to start of the night. The food is OK at best, I mean it's reasonably priced and the wait staff is pretty cool for the most part. I've only had one problem, this summer we were gettin' shit-canned here. Our table just kinda kept piling up with friends on the patio and our server kept getting the wrong amounts of margs and explaining that she had to pay for all the ones we weren't receiving that she had replaced. I felt pretty bad, but I was being honest. I can't say about my friends. So, yeah when you see the no separate checks sign when you walk in....totally sorry about that. But, they didn't get two stars for this bad experience, in fact chic server look at my picture you probably remember me. Sorry sweetie, hope you don't hate me. They got two stars because even for the cheap price I've had way better Mexican. I consider these guys a budget chubby's which speaks alone for itself. But, I eat here probably once a month, funny how that works. Shows what location does for a joint.
(2)Amelia Z.
$1.75 MARGARITAS! Yes! And they're real, so be careful. Like most mexican restaurants, food comes out fast and hot. Patty, our server, was really sweet and on top of things. They also had a kind of hype man, Manuel, going around getting people excited for Cinco de Mayo and handing out free things that you'd be excited to get even if you didn't have a few margs in you. Even the busboy asked how our food was! Their food is good too, basic cheap (in price) tex-mex that won't disappoint.
(4)C S.
FOR THE VALUE THIS PLACE IS EASILY A 5 STAR'R. A MUST if you're hungover and want an amazing burrito and a ridiculously good MARGARITA for only $1.75!!! Love the FAX! (COLFAX!) They put green pork chili in just about every dish. The tamales are the best YO!! BREAKFAST FOR 2 FOR LIKE 12 BUCKS!! OHH HELLZ YA! THIS PLACE ROCKS... I WANNA ROCK!! AT EMILIO'S.... LOVE THIS PLACE!!
(5)Stephanie M.
I've been to Emilio's twice and had two very different experiences. The first time was last winter. I'd been skiing all day and was ravenous, so I went to Emilio's and had some shredded beef tacos and a margarita. I remember the tacos being delicious and the strong margarita exactly the right thing to ease my aching muscles. The second time was about a week ago, on one of those chill wintry nights when one just craves good Mexican food. I got a beef burrito as carry out. The ground beef seemed to be barely seasoned, if at all, the green chile and beans that were supposedly in the burrito were barely enough to make the filling moist and didn't really add any flavor, and what cheese there was - about a tablespoon of it - was all lumped together in one corner. This may be the biggest waste of $6 in recent memory, and in fact, the most discernible seasoning in my tortilla full of ground beef was the sadness and regret I experienced while eating it. Since Emilio's is far and away the closest place to my house, I may give it another shot - but if I do, it'll be with a large dose of skepticism and trepidation, and not unless I'm willing to throw away a hard-earned fiver on something that may very well not be worth it.
(2)Robin P.
Well hello there $1.75 margarita on Thursday-Saturday nights. I didn't see you sneak up on me so fast, along with your 3 buddies (they limit you at 4 margaritas. At least that's what the sign says, but if you ask nicely... Just saying). Beware. I've left here a few times not knowing where I was going or what my name was. Darn it, tequila. The service is always good I think. They may be starting to recognize me though, but that's how I like it. Usually fast and attentive. Besides the killer weekend happy marg deal, Monday-Wednesday, you can order a pitcher of margaritas, and 2 combination plates for $16 ALTOGETHER. I'm a cheap date. The food here is pretty tasty, and I've tried a lot of things here. My favorite (especially before a night of drinking): CHILI CHEESE FRIES. Can I get an amen for this plate of heaven, piled high with fried potatoes, chunky pork green chili, and copious amounts of cheese? Can I get another AMEN? Say it with me now. They are closed on Sunday, which is a bummer, because sometimes I crave Mexican food on the Lord's day. And the bathrooms are dank, but I put up with it (those margaritas have to go somewhere, am I right?). Oh, and the namesake of the restaurant, Emilio? He's there, working the tables and helping the family out. Colfax Mexican food? I love you.
(4)Ali L.
CLOSED - as of at least 1/28/15.
(4)Pam C.
Tough to rate this place! I wanted somewhere casual where I can show up in hiking clothes/no makeup. In the seedy area of Colfax. Walked in at almost 2pm. One hostess and one server. The server takes his sweet time. But, I'm not in a huge hurry, except I'm ready for a margarita! The hostess brings me my marg. I ordered the grilled tacos. Decadent! Surprisingly wonderful. Service got better. I sat across from a table that had a pretty poor looking couple at it. I asked to pay for their check. I hope it made them happy - it sure made me feel good! I think if you're in the area, check this place out. Parking can be a bitch, but I did leave there a happy camper with plans to return.
(4)Lana K.
If you want delicious food, come here! Emilio's is a small local restaurant with some of the best Mexican food I've ever eaten. The wait staff is attentive and welcoming! A daily feature is 3.00 margaritas that are soooo delicious! If you're looking for a casual local place to eat, you're gonna love this place! Chris has been my server a few times now and he has such a welcoming personal touch to his service. You'll become a regular once you come once!
(5)Sylvia D.
So, I really liked this place. I am always looking for a new mexican restaurant to try that has good food and good margaritas. This was the place. I ordered the barbacoa chimichanga and it was delicious. The refried beans were perfect and the green chili that they smothered it with was on point. Chips and salsa was excellent. The Margaritas? Oh my, my, my.......let's just say I'll be back again, again and again.
(5)John S.
The food is good, but not great. I ordered the beef and bean burrito with cheese, sauce, and salad. Strange small burrito, more like a taco shape. Service was friendly and fast, but with so many other tex mex options in Denver, I doubt I'll be back.
(3)Nikki K.
CLOSED. Went here and there was a sign on the door that it was seized. Someone walking by said they haven't paid taxes
(1)Thaddius B.
Nothing super amazing or unique but if your near by and are hungry for some Mexican not a bad choice. The margs were nothing special cheap mix that was too sweet and syrupy for me but for under 2 bucks what do you expect plus I am not a huge marg fan anyway. I have eaten here a couple times and will go back price is right and food is good.
(3)Beau W.
Another place I stumbled on because of their close proximity to my house. What a great find. They have great happy hour specials. As well as great daily specials for food. An example would be chicken enchiladas for 5 or 6 bucks. 1990 prices! Even if you don't get one of the specials, it is very cheap. I love the steak chimichanga plate. The green chili is really good. The seasoning on the steak inside is perfect. The best part of this place is the salsa. It's the best salsa I have ever had. Normally when I say this, I follow up with "besides mine." Not this time. I wish I could make a salsa like this. Fresh tasting and seasoned perfectly. Best Tex-Mex in town!
(5)Katrina D.
This is a nice lunch place for people that work near the state capitol. The staff is friendly, especially Tony, our server. The chips and salsa is one of the best in the city. I also like the grilled tacos and the salsa that comes with them. Also, a great place for a happy hour margarita.
(4)Krystal M.
To be honest... I was hesitant to go here... there are mixed reviews. However, I'm glad the bf convinced me. It was perfect for a Friday afternoon when you need a cheap margarita after a long week. Y'all weren't kidding about these cheap, strong $1.75 margaritas. They were bomb! Seriously... I was really surprised. I had a good little buzz after just 2 of them. I got a carnitas quesadilla, the bf got tacos. The food was meh, not great, not bad... I was hoping for fried crispy type carnitas, it wasn't. Just boiled. I got a side of guac, bad idea... it was $3 by itself and not that great. Our waiter was really nice and came by to check on us frequently and to replenish the magically strong margaritas. If you're sitting by the window be prepared to see some weirdness; some creepy lady blew me a kiss from the street (hey, it's Colfax, so its expected). The restroom was also pretty clean, so that was good as well. Oh and there's some outside seating as well as a few TVs inside. I'll be back for those margaritas!
(3)Lynn G.
Have always loved this place. Good cheap Mexican food and margarita pitchers. They won't split checks so remember to bring cash. Their cheese enchiladas are the best....
(5)Steve K.
Shut the Front Door! I've travelled all over this county and Emilio's Super Chef has one of the best breakfast breakfast burritos I've ever had...easily in the top 3 best I've ever eaten. I had Emilos Special burrito... Very generous portions, delicious green chili, and very reasonable prices. The green chili was hot enough to get my nose running, but not hot enough to burn my mouth. Great meal...you won't be disappointed.
(5)Caleb W.
If I could give it 0 stars I would. They charge you $2 for extra chips and salsa after the complementary one, and $1 for each salsa afterwards for your meal. The waitress told me the 'salsa had been abused in the past'. No Mexican restaurant does this. And splitting a check, not accepted in this rat hole of an establishment. This place is trying to squeeze every last dollar out of you, and they are disregarding the customer in the process. I do not recommend.
(1)Emily D.
I LOVE the potato tacos at Emilio's. My girlfriend and I come here almost biweekly to get them. They are loaded with yummy guacamole and delicious salsas with great rice and beans. The problem with Emilio's is the service. It is extremely slow. They seem to ever only have one waitress working at a time, and you start to feel bad for whoever is working. You can't even get a word in with them because they're running all over the place and frequently forgetting things. Definitely not the fault of the waiter, and the service is very friendly (we have had very lovely, friendly waiters), it just can take forever for the tacos to finally come. I will keep coming back here because of the tacos, despite the slow service.
(3)Richard R.
Staff, location and margaritas - oh my! For sure the three reasons I keep coming back to Emilio's. You can't beat the price, it's in the hood and I always always always get polite service! First, the employees here are very friendly (and cute for the most part) which goes a long way even when the place is packed and the food takes some time to come out. A friendly employee does a lot to alleviate the wait time. Speaking of food - meh. Being a picky eater when it comes to Mexican food is just how I roll. Hardly anything is as good as Grandma's cooking and this place doesn't come close. Still, it's decent and edible but nothing to call home about. The margaritas are cheap and strong even though you can't really taste the booze. They do a good job of masking the tequila flavor but I know it's in there cuz I get a solid buzz fo sho! Overall I like this place and wouldn't hesitate to go back. A fairly inexpensive time for the amount of food you get. A-OK. Solid. Bueno.
(3)Leah P.
I'm a big Emilio's fan. Good luck finding anything there that's "light" or "healthy", but if you're prepared to stuff your face with some deliciously fattening Mexican food, you've found the spot. Quality-wise, the food is a couple steps up from other cheap Mexican in the area (I dream about the potato-sausage tacos...), but it's probably pretty bad for you. In the summer, their patio has accommodated some of my weirder interactions with Colfax riff raff, and the people-watching is unparalleled. They do stiff margarita pitchers for a very reasonable price too, making this one of my favorite spots for grub on Colfax.
(4)Rick N.
I would love to review this place however I was unable to get in. I am disabled and tried to go through the door but could not. So I tried to call to have someone let me in and the phone was busy. So I went around to the window to wave down the bartender when she saw me she turned and walked away. Then I went home and called to complain and spoke to the owner. She said that I was welcome to come back as if it was super easy for me to do. And when I mentioned the phone was busy she said this is a business and they get calls. I said that it must be nice to be able to turn away customers. There are too many other places that know how to cater to all types of clientele unfortunately this not one. I guess it would have been nice to have an apology instead the owner denied the event even happened!
(1)Alissa R.
In all reality, I don't really need to write about my experiences here-Tiffany W's review pretty much sums it up. It had been years since I ventured into this, and now I remember why. A friend and I were in the area and they had expressed a craving for 'sit down/fast Mexican food' and this is where we ended up. Yes they have those cheap margaritas...err, um if you could even call them that- I, too had to slam mine or forfeit the entire drink cost (it wasn't during happy hour.) Terrible with a capital T. The salsa had some flavor but was riddled with a tad too much salt. My friend opted for a combo of sorts and I got a guacamole tostada with a side of re-fried beans. Everything was bland, so good thing for that salty salsa, we needed it to season everything. On my way to the restroom, I caught a glimpse into the back area where it seems they wash the dishes and it was pretty murky....our server was nice to comp a 2nd bowl of chips and salsa (only the first one is complimentary, beware) but only did so because we ordered a side of sour cream and guacamole, which are a dollar each. I wish I could give it at least one more star but that just doesn't seem fair. Sorry Emilio's.
(2)Adam H.
I've eaten here twice. The first time I had one of there combo platters. It was your run of the mill smothered plate of random Mexican food items. This last time I had the grilled tacos. I would go back for these. The service is relatively slow but very friendly. I wouldn't drive a long distance to go to this place but if you live in Uptown and are looking for decent Mexican food. It gets the job done.
(3)D N.
I go here strictly for the breakfast burritos. After a long night of drinking, there's nothing better to set you right the next morning. My favorite is the egg, potato, bacon with cheese. Comes with green chili inside which ads some great flavor. I've never had anything else there, so I'm rating them on the burrito only.
(4)Will P.
This is a great little gem amid the gross Chinese food, overpriced Burger and brew joints and the....ahem...colorful cast that roams Colfax. The margs SEEM weak at first, but they hit later. I suggest getting green chili with anything you get. It's really good. Finally, I found my own little hole in the wall between my home and my bus stop. No surprise I've been here almost every night in the past three weeks. UPDATE: Because of a few unfortunate visits in recent weeks, I have decided to blackball this place due to poor customer service and downright rudeness on behalf of one singular employee. Until she's gone, I shall not return. Too bad... For them.
(4)Tiffany W.
Oh, man. It's hard to go wrong with $1.75 margaritas ...actually, it's really easy to go wrong with $1.75 margaritas. Good thing they limit four. But for me, the limit was one. And barely. The first thing that came to mind after the first few sips (because I had to be sure) was: "toilet water". Not that I have any idea, but the color... and something about the mixer. It hit me like toilet cleaner water. In the sinuses. Or something. It was awful. So I slammed the first one and that was it. But it's nice to know I still have some principle, price is right or not. The food? Well, something tells me it would have been much better if I'd been able to stomach the margs. The salsa was good; a nice mix with a kick (but not too much), but the chips were almost chewy. Like they hadn't been fried long enough? I ordered the potato tacos because they sounded delish. I was thinking it'd be soft corn torts, but instead it was greasy, more chewy than crispy half-fried (grilled?) corn torts with melty cheese and more grease in potato form. The guac was generous, which I appreciated. The tacos came with rice and beans (standard sides, nothing memorable), and some kind of green salsa. I ate it, but I regretted it afterwards. Total gut bomb. But again, I can see where a following might be forming here (following the booze, that is). Would I eat here again? Maybe. Nothing really to bring me back any time soon, but certainly not the worst place my coworkers could have picked (I'm looking at you--ANYWHERE on the 16th Street Mall...). They won't split checks, so come prepared with cash, or hope your credit limit or account balance will cover the tab and that none of your friends will screw you over by not paying their parts. I'm teetering between two and three stars, but I'm giving three since I don't feel strongly enough about coming back here or not. Conclusion: it's a Mexi-joint on Colfax with $1.75 margaritas. Anything could happen.
(3)Proteus D.
Came here for a working lunch. I had the Mahi Mahi fajitas. Which were unique and all in all pretty tasty. However way over salted, I had a dry mouth for the rest of the day. I don't eat dairy or meat and so was pretty shocked to discover that the beans were cooked in lard. Errrr....gross. I only found this out when I pushed the waitress to confirm they were meat free. Even though I asked in advance for a non meat / dairy plate.
(3)Faith M.
People. Thursday-Satuday you can get 16oz margaritas for 1.75. I mean do I even need to review anymore. Jeez. I think the food is good but Mexican food isn't something I'm well versed in so if you're really into Mexican food don't take my word for it. The reason I'm knocking them one star is because they close pretty early, like 9, but I probably would too if I was operating a business on Colfax. On the flip side the people watching is amazing.
(4)Jonathan C.
$1.75 margs.... say what, yes there is a 4 marg limit but just don't act like its your prom night and you wont be turned down. I wouldnt rave about the food but I always split the nachos but you do get FREE!!!! chips and salsa. I suggest next time you're in the neighborhood and say "lets go to a dive bar" try this place out
(4)Lindsey K.
One of my favorite chili rellenos in Denver, $1.75 margaritas, yes please!
(4)Kelly T.
I'll admit it. I don't go to this place for the food. I go there for the drinks. More specifically, the $1.75 margaritas they have from 4-9 Thursday through Saturday. Even MORE specifically, the incredibly strong, limit of four per customer, your night is either done or about to take a turn for the very interesting after you reach your limit margaritas. I'm talking walking through the McDonald's drive thru, trying to place an order on foot interesting. They also have really great beer specials for those of you that like a little hops with your burrito. Jim Gaffigan has a bit where he talks about how all Mexican food is all the same: tortilla with meat, beans, cheese and rice. While I don't think this is the case with those amazing hole in the wall taquerias, it is the case with this place. If you want something decent and cheap, come here. And if you want my recommendation, I like the beef tacos. The service is good and you can usually get a seat, though it does get really loud after about 7. They're expanding right now, so they'll be able to seat even more patrons jonesing for one of their sweet, sweet margs.
(3)Anthony N.
Okay, I've been here about a dozen times now since moving into the Colfax 'hood', and this place has constantly delivered. Not only is it the perfect place for dirt-cheap margaritas, PBRs, and buckets of Corona, you get one of the tastiest, cheapest burritos drenched in green chili sauce that money can buy. And man, are they fan-frickin-tastic good. The place also has a surprisingly large amount of good lookin' customers coming in and out, I've noticed. Maybe it's just the time of day I end up showing my face there, but hawt-damn. Good Mexican with pretty scenery on Colfax? You don't see that everyday.
(5)Kelsey S.
Went to Emilio's for the first time last night after hearing about good food and cheap margaritas. They offer a special on Monday nights, for $16 you get two combination plates and a liter of margaritas. It was more than enough food and margs to go around! The rellenos were super delicious! As others have mentioned, the ambiance and the staff aren't anything to write home about, but for the prices, you really can't complain!
(4)Pablo R.
I had hesitated on going to this place for a while but gave it a try anyway. Needless to say this place was great. I had their chorizo and potatoe tacos and they are so delicious. They had great chips and salsa and their margaritas were cheap and very good. I would definitely recommend this place if you are looking for good Mexican food and great margaritas. Not to mention they have 2.25 margaritas from 6-close. The staff is great and always make the customers feel like family. I have been back many many times and have recommended to a ton of my friends of which they all loved it. We are now loyal customers of this restaurant. Check it out and I'm sure you will love it too. Good suggestions: -Chorizo and potato tacos -Grilled tacos with either type Of meat -carne asada plate -fajitas -carnitas plate -mahi mahi tacos -chile relleño plate -basically anything with green chile!!!!!
(5)Joseph H.
Friendly service, and the best breakfast burrito I've ever had (emilio's special with cheese).
(5)Agi D.
Emilio's is one of those places that never disappoint me. Anything I ever ordered I liked. Even the fish tacos. On Colfax. For cheap. And those margaritas. Can't beat it.
(5)Ambra G.
I have to be honest here. I am a vegetarian, and these guys nearly killed me with their cross contamination. I was also pregnant in my first trimester experiencing morning sickness when I bit into my worst food nightmare.. a tostada, which was lard free and meat free as all are... I bit in a sunk my teeth into a disgusting huge piece of meat.. steak or pork (which I am allergic to). I knew the texture and immediately spit it out as fast as I could, choking, dramatically gasping and eventually puking into their toilet. It was my first time and the LAST time I will ever go there. Besides, there are roaches all over that place.. I don't care how great their margaritas are or how cool their colfax patio is for people watching. it doesn't mean anything if you are eating poison. DISGUSTINg and DISGRACEFUL. they didn't even offer a solution, just said, oh.. sorry.
(1)Kristin N.
I went here earlier this summer, about a month and a half ago, and unfortunately did not try the $1.75 Margaritas. I have heard they are the staple for this restaurant. I will probably come back here for just this reason. On the particular occasion I went here, we sat outside on the Patio. This turned out to be a very bad idea, as we were continuously harassed by homeless people. I think in the hour that we were there we were asked for money at least 3 different times. Unfortunately, the close proximity to a shady part of Colfax is what causes this problem. Next time I'll sit inside. I ordered mahi mahi tacos, but was unimpressed when they arrived with simply just mahi mahi and nothing else in them. I mean where was the lettuce, etc.? But, I have to admit that my friend ordered the Chicken Enchilada plate and quite enjoyed it. The service also really sucked this day. It took our waitress so long to bring us our check that I had to go inside and find her. I'm hoping this is not normal, or only attributed to the fact that we were sitting outside. While this review isn't that great, I admit that with the close proximity to my house I will probably go back here. But, next time I'll sit inside, order a cheap margarita, and go with enchiladas. I've heard alot of good reviews, and was sad I wasn't greatly impressed.
(3)Toni D.
$1.75 Margaritas is awesome! Located right at Colfax and Logan. Since it's right on Colfax it can be quite entertaining watching the people walk by on Colfax. The margaritas are pretty refreshing on a hot summer day. I ordered the ground beef nachos and loved them. Not the best I've had but after a few margaritas they taste pretty darn good. However, I was warned to stay away from the fish tacos and nacho cheese sauce on the nachos. So, make sure to ask for melted shredded cheese. If the weather is nice sit out on the patio and enjoy.. So, my friends warned me they have a 4 drink maximum.. I'm not sure they really keep tracked especially since our bill was not accurate.
(3)Elin N.
This place is a staple for breakfast burritos. The bacon & egg with potato & green chili. The $1.75 margaritas are a great touch!
(5)Joseph M.
This place is pretty sweet. I don't think I've ever had a bill over $35 for two people, two entree's and 5 margs. The food is speedy and I really can't find better crispy relleno's anywhere in Denver. I would've given it 5 stars except the service seems to be stellar until you get your food. On numerous occasions it's taken 10-15 minutes to get a server back over once our food has arrived despite empty marg glasses.
(4)john g.
All of us enjoyed lunch the other day. The crispy tacos were better than average. They should be more generous with the chips because it's a small amount with no free refills (and this was for 3 adults). The service was relaxed but friendly. Would return if I'm in the area and am craving basic Mexican food.
(3)Carolyn M.
The service at Emilios is not good, especially when the place is packed (which it often is). However, the margaritas are cheap ($1.75) and you should have a nice little buzz after drinking 4 (yes, unfortunately there is a limit). The food was nothing spectacular, but I would order the carne asada for dinner again. The smothered breakfast burritos are where it's at, and likely the reason for my 4-star rating. I'll definitely be back!
(4)Adrian P.
The 1.75 margaritas are about the only thing this restaurant has going for them. The food sucks and the margaritas were weak. They taste like kool aid mix and no frozen margaritas. Oh and $2 for more chips? I could buy a bag of chips for cheaper. No thank you the place isnt even fancy...ill go somewhere better for mexican food and drinks.
(1)Scott V.
great service, good food & always a good lunch special. They get the food out quickly here during the lunch rush. The grilled tacos are awesome!
(4)Carly B.
This place RULES. Had heard about their $1.75 happy hour margarita and wasn't sure if we'd be too late. I figured it didn't matter since if the happy hour price is $1.75, their regular price is probably only like $3 or $4 anyway. The chips and salsa were tasty, just the right amount of spice in the salsa and I didn't feel like I'd have to be taken out on a stretcher after (Lime, I'm looking at you). In fact, even though the salsa was gone long before the chips were, the chips weren't too bad on their own and I usually view the chips as merely conduits for dips. That's saying something. I ordered a couple of ala carte items (guacamole tostada and cheese enchilada) and my friend got the chili rellano plate. Everything came out super fast, warm, and gooey. Now, it wasn't the BEST Mexican food I've ever had, but it surely hit the spot. And that's not the point here anyway. The point is that the service was great. Our server was super attentive and even though the place was packed, they found a chair for a third friend to join us about halfway through for a margarita and they didn't act put out at all. Two meals and five margaritas later, we received the "damage". Twenty-four measly dollars. You can't beat that! Screw Benny's, I'm going to Emilio's from now on.
(4)Julio T.
Good Mexican food in Denver isn't hard to find. You can almost pick a place at random and find more than adequate burritos with that great green chili pork gravy so common in this city. So Emilio's is only okay and in Denver, okay Mexican food just doesn't cut it. The chili is watery and under-spiced. The beans are thin and taste canned. The meats are just bland. And the place is kind of overpriced: $5+ for just a burrito is a bit much unless its Chipotle big. Yeah, the margaritas are good and well-priced and really in a lot of other cities this place would be decent or maybe even great. But in Denver (even in east Denver), there are many good Mexican restaurants, so I just don't see the need for a mediocre one.
(2)Frances M.
It's nothing fancy but the food is good and the margs are cheap (especially during happy hour). It's not overly done and that's why I like it.
(4)Jason W.
Fantastic everything. Cheap drinks and delicious food. The relleno was superb.
(5)Karl C.
This is a good place in the cap hill area. kinda divey and slow but decent food at a decent price. not much else to say. because of their location gets busy fri./sat. nites.
(3)Jerad E.
Nice hole-in-the-wall Mexican place. Totally love their cheese enchiladas and the margarita deal cant be beat: $1.75 margaritas! Been here a few times and haven't had any problems with service and the food comes out quick even when the place is packed on a Friday night. Good chips and salsa. My only complaint is they're not open for my Sunday Mexican food cravings.
(4)Dana R.
To quote my hubbo, "this is good, sloppy Mexican food"...Amen brotha. Go for Combo B. Hungry? Don't panic. Pick up on a Sunday night at 630 should take about 7 minutes!
(3)Sarah F.
First off, as most of the other reviews have noted, this place has freaking awesome $1.75 margaritas. They limit you to 4, but that's all you need! They are delicious, and decently strong. I ordered a chimichanga with carnitas from here the other day, and oh god it was delicious. Lots of cheesey goodness, plus beans, rice, lettuce, tomato, sour cream and a huge hunk of guac!!! The only thing is, they won't split checks. This is kind of a pain when you go in a group of people, unless you just plan on using cash.
(4)Felicia F.
I went here in the summer with a friends before a meeting and I didn't really like it. I order a large nacho and the meat and cheese were really watery. My friend also order taquitos and she said they tasted like they didn't have any seasoning in them. I wouldn't recommend this to anyone who like good Mexican. Sorry but I just didn't like the food.
(2)Jessica D.
The cheap-o (and surprisingly strong) margaritas are what originally brought me into Emilio's, but I actually like their food too. Quick, inexpensive, and tasty! I have a hard time making it over there for breakfast but their smothered breakfast burritos are awesome as well. Unfortunately they're closed on sunday mornings, which is when my breakfast burrito cravings seem to peak hardcore. haha Emilio's is a little on the divey side but not too shabby. I'm not going to say the food here is so good it will change your life, but if you're looking for a quick (and very reasonably priced) plate of mexican food it's tasty and worth the trip. The few times I've been in there they don't seem big on splitting checks for people (not sure if that's the rule or just the server's preference), and I believe they have a credit card minimum of $5 or so. That doesn't seem like a big deal, but that's pretty hard to exceed if you're just getting a single item.
(3)Amanda P.
Nothing stands out to me for this place. Cheap margs that taste decent. That's all I remember! Everything else was meh.
(3)Rachel C.
This place is the textbook definition of serviceable. If you're in the mood for some greasy, green-chile laden dinners and cheap margs (ask for extra limes, trust me) you've come to the right place. Menu standouts incude the breakfast burritos- any of them- smothered with cheese, carnitas and eggs, grilled tacos, chimichangas and smothered fries with steak. The servers are friendly but often stretched thin throughout the restaurant and patio, so just keep that in mind when you're trying to get it on that $1.75 weekend marg deal. You get what you pay for, after all.
(4)Melissa J.
We used to live near them and were regulars enough that they still recognize us. You just can't beat $1.75 margaritas! They're $3 other nights which is still pretty good. Their green chili is some of the best. Sometimes I get a pint to go and pour it over brown rice and chicken at home. The carne asada is amazing, the rellenos are good too. Good enough that I haven't really tried much else. My husband always gets the smothered fries- very indulgent. Now that we've moved farther away we eat at the local Mexican dive and while it's ok, I miss Superchef immensely.
(4)Alex K.
if your stomach can handle it-- I recommend this place Fair pricing, attentive and kind staff, usually places to sit, cheap margs. And--- awesome food (see note disclaimer above) It's on colfax so don't go here for anything classy, but if you are "____" you will fit in....
(3)C S.
FOR THE VALUE THIS PLACE IS EASILY A 5 STAR'R. A MUST if you're hungover and want an amazing burrito and a ridiculously good MARGARITA for only $1.75!!! Love the FAX! (COLFAX!) They put green pork chili in just about every dish. The tamales are the best YO!! BREAKFAST FOR 2 FOR LIKE 12 BUCKS!! OHH HELLZ YA! THIS PLACE ROCKS... I WANNA ROCK!! AT EMILIO'S.... LOVE THIS PLACE!!
(5)Emma V.
My boyfriend and I went to emilios because we always drive past and its always crowded. We got there and were told to seat ourselves for the patio. It took five minutes to be greeted with chips and salsa and ordered our drinks. We then waited 15 minutes to have our waitress come to our table. She took our orders (i got a chicken burrito and my bf fajitas) after she left our table we saw her walk across the street to the liquor store and when she came back to the restaurant she had to come back to our table to reask my boyfriend what he wanted! We both had empty water glasses on our table ( we had to ask several times to have them refilled) when the food finally came out my boyfriends fajitas were burnt and the tortillas dried out. My burrito was more like a taco covered in sauce. while eating i found a chicken bone in my burrito and immediately lost my appetite so we asked for the check. After waiting another 10 minutes we found our waitress making out with some guy outside the kitchen and all the kitchen staff were outside smoking (ew). We finally got our check and left as quickly as possible, Definitely will not be returning!
(1)Scott P.
Everyone seems to love the margaritas here, but I didn't have one, so I can't accurately judge them. The food was mediocre at best- typical Mexican food made for white people. Blah blah blah boring, the chips were boring, the salsa was boring, the service was just fine, and I really don't have too much else to say about it... other than PEACE DENVER, I'M OUT, BITCHES!!!!
(3)Whitney M.
Emilio's offers two things: 1) Super-cheap, mess-you-up drinks 2) Stuff to put in your stomach as you indulge in item #1 They do have potato tacos for vegetarians, which is uncommon, and the food is decently priced. Don't go if you're in a hurry--they're usually slammed and, on the times I've been when they weren't slammed, service was pretty slow. But my oh my those margs. They're super sugary and I'm pretty certain there's everclear in there, which is why they won't serve you more than three or four--I can't remember the number at which you'll get cut off and there's a good reason I can't remember. It's usually a fun crowd and you can't go wrong with Colfax people watching. Plus you can get totes smashed for like, five bucks. Me gusta.
(3)Matt D.
I try to practice the "Don't-Judge-a-Book-by-It's-Cover" principal, but I will admit, I did initially judge Emilio's as a hole-in-the-wall Mexican dive; I couldn't understand why my friends insisted on going all the time. In turn, I didn't give the place a chance the first couple of times I went... ...but by the third visit I was hooked. The service is spectacular. One of the friendliest places to visit. Even if the food was terrible, I'd probably still go just to visit the staff. They're super friendly. The food is great. I actually eat lunch at Emilio's about three times a week now, and the $10 (on average) I drop at each visit is well worth it. I love that everything I get is spicy, but not TOO spicy! ;-) I highly recommend Emilio's to anyone looking for a quick, reasonably priced, delicious meal.
(4)Amber M.
My husband and I live really close to here and I was excited to finally make it in for one of the cheap margarita nights. I found that they're strong for the price and I now definitely understand the limit of 4. The chips were greasy, but my burrito was good and it arrived quickly. The guy that bussed our table was friendly and efficient. Our server was a little slow with the water, but then the bus guy took over water duties so I don't know whose responsibility it really was. Overall, the service was way better than the last time when the staff got confused, forgot to take our order for an eternity and got my order wrong. This time we sat inside because it looked like rain and were treated to America's worst hits on the radio/ipod/whatever was playing in there. I'm going to try for outside seating from now on. Despite the issues, the food is good (even when it's wrong), the staff is friendly (even when they're slow) and the margarita's are cheap and strong (a little pungent, even). We'll be back.
(3)Jessica J.
Who can resist $1.75 margaritas? I cannot... Kelly T. and I frequent this joint on Thursday, Friday or (ok...AND) Saturday. For a Buck and 3 qwartas, Kelly T and I was a little skeptical. We figured the margs would be more water than liquor. We were definitely wrong there! They have a 4 margarita limit.....for a reason, as I found out the moment I stumbled out of my chair toward the door. Oy vey! I must admit that I was a little afraid to try the food at first......but, after having their cheap but tasty tacos, I will never hesitate to order from the menu again. On their menu they offer a breakfast burrito as well. Now that I live in the hood, I might have to stop by for one on my way to work.
(4)James C.
Kind of a dump, but in my experiences dumps usually have pretty delicious food and Emilio's keeps that stereotype alive. The green chili was very tasty and the carne asada plate was delicious.
(4)A.J. T.
If i could marry Emilios, I would. First off, went during the 1.75 margarita time (4pm-close) and it was amazing. I thought with a price like that, I might get maybe a total of three shots of tequila within their 4 margarita limit. Def not the case; I had two margs before I decided on ordering the Green Chili and was hammered by the time it came. Yes, hammered. They don't play with the margaritas which made me fall in love at first buzz. Plus, they are mixed well. The chili was delicious (but take that with a grain of salt as I was wasted), the server was very attentive and nice, and the service all around was fast. What more could you ask for? Pros: Best deal on real margaritas in town. Food is good. Service is good. Cons: Not open on Sundays :( TE AMO, EMILIOS!!!
(5)Derek W.
We have driven past this place so many times and always say "We need to try that place". Finally did a couple weeks ago and went back for a second time last week. This place is great! The food definitely tastes good, the staff very friendly and attentive, and the margarita happy hour.... who can pass that up! Great food, great prices, great place!
(5)mellany c.
First.. I had a breakfast burrito.. It was alright.. But one, I'm still starving.. And two.. What kind of mexican restaurant runs out of hot sauce... When they're only have full??? I wait around for hot sauce.. My waitress seemed to disappear into the abyss.
(1)laura h.
2-1/2 stars. I'm almost reluctant to review a place having eating only one or two of their items, but they do have crispy rather than soft-style rellenos, which is a huge plus in my book. I've had better - a couple of times I have found the coating a little too thick and almost underdone - but they're still pretty good, they're reasonably priced, and it's within walking distance of home. The salsa has decent flavor (be prepared for a thin, bottled-style picante salsa, like you actually get at a lot of the restaurants in Mexico, not fresh tomato based, pico-style "salsa".) The chips are weird - again, a little too thick, and therefore a little chewy, like they've absorbed too much oil, but the flavor is good, not overly salted. I'm not a marg drinker, so I can't review those, but people say they're good, and they're probably a good part of this place's popularity. It is right on Colfax, so you may have very down and out people walking by and watching you dine out, through the window. Would I drive across town for their foo? No. But when I have a hankering for a relleno, it serves, and they do single sopapillas, too. They have TV/videos on all the time, which I don't much care for. The servers will quickly remember you ("Relleno, enchilada-style?" "Yes, thank you.") Probably best-suited for a night out with friends, after work or on the weekend, with margaritas as the priority, but the food is a little better than adequate. Better than Benny's (why in God's name do people like that place?)
(3)Anna F.
-- 1.75 $ margaritas between 4pm and closing time. In case you haven't noticed from previous reviews or the large banner outside. They had me at hello. -- despite their small price (and lots of ice), we found the drinks strong. Hence the 4 margarita per p
(4)Andrea R.
I believe the food was good but not worth going back because of the experience. What gets them the low rating is their service - don't expect an hour lunch at this place. I think it took them almost 30 minutes to bring our food which is not so cool when you are in a time crunch. Also - you have to keep on them for refills and service of any kind. Also the waitress had a sour attitude - not sure why she was mad when we asked for more chips like we were bothering her and to top it off she rudely said - "You know it costs $2 bucks don't you?" We replied yes but not sure why we should had to pay for them considering the wait time. So once the food arrived we had to eat as fast as can be because we had to get back to work. We also asked for the check as soon as the food arrived which should have been a clue to any normal waitress that we were dissatisfied - but hey what do I know I only waited tables for 3 years. If they would have cared to ask us about our service believe me I would have told them but from the looks of it, this establishment does not care. Maybe they do the cheap margaritas to offset their crappy service and wait staff. Don't think I will be going back anytime soon.
(1)Eric T.
Ah Emilio's... a great place for good Mexican food and cheap drinks on Colfax. I've gone here many times and have always had good food and a great waitstaff. The burritos are great basic food and for lunch come with green chili inside. You can also get them smothered with cheese, which is my preferred way. I went with a friend recently and he is a big carne asada fan. He really enjoyed his meal and loved the green chili. Another of my favorites is the green chili cheese fries. Nothing better on a hungover morning than spicy green chili, fried potatoes, all covered with cheese. Mmmm! Drinks are always reasonable. As you've probably seen in the other reviews they have cheap margaritas ($1.75) and good bucket specials. So, come on down to Emilio's and grab a drink, some food, and amazing Colfax people watching!
(4)David C.
Me: Colorado native and Mexican food lover. Often have to search Denver high and low to find a decent Mexican food restaurant. I have been going to Emilio's for nearly 8 years (I work downtown). Its food is alway consistent and service is always prompt and friendly. Okay-the important stuff: The free chips and salsa: Really good! Chips are perfect-they always come out warm and are not too thick or too thin and the salsa is not too thick nor thin and has the perfect heat. Their rellenos are absolutely some of the best in Denver, and their supreme burrito IS the best in Denver. The Chimichangas are also excellent. Finally, their green chili is truly outstanding!! You won't believe the quality of food here--alway authentic--and the extremely affordable cost of it. You can't go wrong. Great food, great green chili, great servce and amazing price. For lunch I usually get two bean tostadas (just $4 !!) and a relleno on the side somothered in green chili(just $3,50).
(4)Gianni D.
Come for the happy hour.Thurs- Sun $1.75 Margs from 3- close. Cheap Margaritas and a plate of chips of salsa, is always a good way to start of the night. The food is OK at best, I mean it's reasonably priced and the wait staff is pretty cool for the most part. I've only had one problem, this summer we were gettin' shit-canned here. Our table just kinda kept piling up with friends on the patio and our server kept getting the wrong amounts of margs and explaining that she had to pay for all the ones we weren't receiving that she had replaced. I felt pretty bad, but I was being honest. I can't say about my friends. So, yeah when you see the no separate checks sign when you walk in....totally sorry about that. But, they didn't get two stars for this bad experience, in fact chic server look at my picture you probably remember me. Sorry sweetie, hope you don't hate me. They got two stars because even for the cheap price I've had way better Mexican. I consider these guys a budget chubby's which speaks alone for itself. But, I eat here probably once a month, funny how that works. Shows what location does for a joint.
(2)Amelia Z.
$1.75 MARGARITAS! Yes! And they're real, so be careful. Like most mexican restaurants, food comes out fast and hot. Patty, our server, was really sweet and on top of things. They also had a kind of hype man, Manuel, going around getting people excited for Cinco de Mayo and handing out free things that you'd be excited to get even if you didn't have a few margs in you. Even the busboy asked how our food was! Their food is good too, basic cheap (in price) tex-mex that won't disappoint.
(4)Stephanie M.
I've been to Emilio's twice and had two very different experiences. The first time was last winter. I'd been skiing all day and was ravenous, so I went to Emilio's and had some shredded beef tacos and a margarita. I remember the tacos being delicious and the strong margarita exactly the right thing to ease my aching muscles. The second time was about a week ago, on one of those chill wintry nights when one just craves good Mexican food. I got a beef burrito as carry out. The ground beef seemed to be barely seasoned, if at all, the green chile and beans that were supposedly in the burrito were barely enough to make the filling moist and didn't really add any flavor, and what cheese there was - about a tablespoon of it - was all lumped together in one corner. This may be the biggest waste of $6 in recent memory, and in fact, the most discernible seasoning in my tortilla full of ground beef was the sadness and regret I experienced while eating it. Since Emilio's is far and away the closest place to my house, I may give it another shot - but if I do, it'll be with a large dose of skepticism and trepidation, and not unless I'm willing to throw away a hard-earned fiver on something that may very well not be worth it.
(2)Megan N.
Couldn't get better mexican food for this cheap ANYWHERE in Denver. Love the huevos rancheros. So good! If you don't like loud busy places then Emilio's is not for you. Really good chips and salsa and their margs are only $1.75 on Thursday through Saturday. Only complaint- i wish they were open later. : ( they close at 9. If you havent been I recommend it. Great for happy hour and a bite! Cheese fries are bomb too!
(5)Stanly W.
It surprises me to see so many bad reviews. I don't doubt the veracity of the reviewer, but after going to this place several times (it's two blocks away) I'm pretty happy with it. The breakfast burritos are affordable. The green chili is authentic. The portions are gratifying. I'm really big on service. Even if the meal is good, if the service is bad, that ruffles my feathers to the degree where I just won't go back to the place again. No, I'll come home and revel in the scathing review I'll write here on Yelp. I'm big on service because I've been in service, and I know it doesn't kill anybody to smile and say hello to a customer. It doesn't hurt anybody to be patient and try to walk somebody through a menu if they've never been there before or they're unfamiliar with the fare. It's okay to make a friendly recommendation, and most people tend to appreciate the thought, even if they choose something else. The service here has been just fine for me, every time. And the margaritas will kick your butt.
(4)Erin W.
Not a huge fan of Mexican food, but when I'm in the mood I go to Emilio's. Tony typically works the counter and is sooo nice and Sergio works the kitchen and cooks up great food! One of the best things about the place is that it's on Colfax so it offers great people watching views (seriously it's amazing). You get a free margarita ever Friday during Happy Hour if you purchase one of their shirts AND you have to wear the shirt in the restaurant. So the t-shirt is worth the price if A. you like margaritas and B. plan on going to Emilio's frequently on Friday's. If you haven't tried it, you should give it a whirl!
(4)Kent T.
Rumbled into Emilio's on a rainy night, last weekend. It was packed, wall-to-wall and seemed like a "Mexican Greasy Spoon Joint". We were thinking about leaving, but then an enthusiastic waiter RAN up to us and asked us how many in our party. He then hopped outside, grabbed a table, dusted it off, re-arranged some other tables and made us a spot in a corner. After that, I was impressed.... dude actually WANTED us to eat there. The queso was pretty much green chile with cheese in it, but still damn good. The tacos al carbon were outstanding and was enough for two people. To top it off, they have some nifty drink specials: 1.75 margaritas and a bucket of 5 Coronas for 10 bucks (sadly, you don't get to keep the bucket, so my weekend sandcastle plans were foiled. Blast!). Unlike other happy hour/bargain margaritas around Denver, these actually tasted good! Not lemon-flavored KoolAid with salt and a trickle of bad tequila-- I would've been happy paying 4 bucks for each one.
(4)Nicholas O.
Great value, quick service. 3 cheers from me. There is definitely better Mexican fare around, but Emilio's suffices if you're in the neighborhood or on a lunch break. The salsa is weak but the chips crispy, salty, and flavorful. The burrito (bread) isn't always fluffy but the filling pleases. The best things about this place are that it's CHEAP and the wait staff are friendly and prompt. ¡Olé! Que dura.
(3)Noelle B.
Thank you to the Yelpers for reviewing this place. I was early for a meeting and hit up Emilio's. I had the 'B' combo plate. I didn't like the chicken taco that much, but the enchilada was on point. The chips and salsa were fantastic as well. The food came out quickly and the service was great. I will be back for some good and fast Mexican food!
(4)Nick W.
Being from Cincinnati, I find it hard to say "THIS IS THE BEST MEXICAN FOOD EVER!!!" given my lack of experience in the subject matter. That said, I can say "THIS IS THE BEST MEXICAN I HAVE EVER HAD!!!" with 100% confidence. I say this because every item I have had on the menu tastes great to me - that coupled with my love of great service = a great experience. The fact that I know Tony, Sergio and Andrea is a testament to them giving top notch service. Best Dish: Tacos al Carbon with Green Chili and a "Tour of Mexico" beer bucket.
(5)Roger M.
My friends and I used to love this place but it's changed. The margarittas are now $1 more with less tequilla and more sour. It used to be fun but not anymore.
(1)Jason S.
Hmm.. I'm still really hungry. Maybe it's because they forgot my appetizer... And they were out of hot sauce! Errrrr.. How does a Mexican restaurant run out of hot sauce?!? They sent the two of us to a table with one chair and made us bug every other table looking for an extra chair. We won't be back. P.s. Bring your own cholula!!
(1)BA M.
Some of these reviews are funny. Can't please some people. I'm a native and grew up in North Denver before the Yuppie implosion, so I know how rare it is to find decent mexican food. Yes, there are better places, but none so close to downtown. Benny's has ALWAYS been a joke, and anything comparable is either too far, or too expensive, or just not all that. As someone who works downtown, I'm grateful to have a place close for takeout.... That being said, it defies common sense why they don't cater to a late-night crowd. They have a liquor license and close before 10 p.m., when most of us freaks don't even go out before 11. They better change their ways with the new expansion... P.S. I still miss the Walnut Cafe.
(4)Henry G.
I wanted to add an update to my last review. Emilio's has become one of my fav Uptown breakfast stops because they open at 8am. And I agree with Megan who said the huevos rancheros are so0o good!. I'm an early riser, so when I wake up hungry on the weekend, I can't wait until 10am for Brunch. Emilio's is open early and they serve great breakfast dishes both American style and Mexican style. Low prices, good food and a serving so large you'll not be hungry again till 2 pm.
(3)Mr. T.
Is the food the best? no. Is the service the best? Probably not, but not terrible either. Knowing all that, I still find myself drawn to this place. It's a fantastic place to stop before a concert. Cheap strong margs and burritos. If they raise prices, I may not return. Gotta have the margaritas though. My friends and I have developed a sort of dilemma with this place though. If we start our night here, we don't remember the end of the night. Enjoy!!!
(5)Kate K.
I am here at least every Thursday if not more often and with a group of 5-8 friends. The margaritas are deliciously strong and plentiful and $1.75 on Thursday-Saturday 4pm-9pm. Some say the staff is mean. Some say its waaayyy too crowded. Babies. It is crowded because the staff will never pressure or kick you out (even after close), but you can make reservations, and they also offer take out. The service is quick and the staff tries to get on a first-name basis with their customers. Most importantly though, the food is also delicious, quick, and cheap. Breakfast all day (burritos are awesome). Superb and spicy green chile. Mouth-watering potatoes. Tasty, amazing carne asada. They give you more food than you ever thought was coming to the table because it cost you $2-$6 dollars. The owner (Emilio) is spirited and kind, and sometimes leads a sort of "the wave" with clapping and chanting joyously through the whole restaurant. Its a family, and worth the wait!
(5)Robert A.
And now, for breakfast: The location used to be home to another breakfast staple: The Walnut Cafe. I was sad to see it go, but relieved to find it now occupied by cheap delicious mexican food. this place has amazing breakfast burritos. Seriously, they're really great and cheap ($4). Egg, potato, green chile and cheese with choice of carnitas (like, always) or chorizo or italian susage or all of it together or none of it all. I am not so sure about the lunch, all i've had the chance to eat is the cheese enchiladas, which should never be a judge...
(4)Brandt W.
There's nothing more comforting when I drive North down Logan Street across Colfax than seeing that huge green and black banner still hanging outside of this hole in the wall, diamond in the rough. "What does the banner say?", you curiously ask. [MARGARITAS $1.75 THURS-SAT 4PM-CLOSE] "$1.75?!?... No way, that must be a misprint or something dude!" Negative. Not only is it correct, but they somehow continue this amazing deal even though they have clearly made a name for themselves. Now, I don't know how long Emilio's has been in business, but I do know that most assume $1.75 margaritas have to be as cheap and generic as they come. Again, those people would be wrong. These margaritas are really good, and there's little skimping on the tequila too. No skimping at all actually. What's more, the food is as good and inexpensive as the margaritas, allowing for a person to get 2 steak tacos ($2.50 each) and 2 margaritas for under $10. Did I mention those 2 steak tacos can actually be made into 4 steak tacos given the double tortilla they make them with? Add the basket of chips and very good salsa (spicy), and that's quite a steal. Oh and their breakfast burritos are some of the best I've had in Denver. There are a few negative aspects of dining at Emilio's that I do need to point out though. Afterall, dinner and drinks that cheap have to come at a price, right? 1. It is on Colfax and not exactly the greatest area of Colfax, so... it's on Colfax. 2. The service is rarely even adequate, thus you have to be patient. The owner/manager is a really friendly guy though. 3. Bathrooms are weak and dirty 4. It's really small - not a great place for large groups. I'd suggest 4 at most so you're not cramped and waiting 5. First basket of chips is free, but they charge you after that. When did this become an accepted practice?! I feel like it randomly sprouted up at every Mexican restaurant one day and I don't like it at all. 6. Emilio's will slip one by you with "add-ons". They'll ask if you want your entree or dish with cheese, etc. and then will charge you extra for it. I think cheese goes for something like $.75 7. They like to close early - 9-9:30ish, so you'll start to get some looks and even less service as that time approaches. 8. They are not open on Sundays. Overall, I say the food and margs outweigh the bad, so go ahead and give it a try.
(4)Ashley N.
AMAZING chorizo and potato tacos!!! Will definitely be back and will tell everyone about this Colfax gem!
(5)M A.
It's hard to find vegan mexican food that's at least somewhat authentic tasting. Emilio's offers a potato taco plate that can be made vegan with no cheese. I've only lived in Denver since December but this is hands down my favorite mexican restaurant. Super cheap food and margs ($1.75 during happy hour!) fun atmosphere, great service and they're open late!
(5)karen l.
i will never go back here they ignore me few times thats it. there are so many good places to try in capitol hill. besides it is a dirty place.
(1)C D.
There are many choices when it comes to mexican restaurants in Denver. The kitchen is accomodating and the salsa actually has some heat. Still there is better tasting mexican food for comparable prices.
(2)Tom R.
Denver has some of the best Mexican restaurants in the nation, this one is really just average and maybe gets an extra 1/2 star just because these is nothing great around the Capitol and this can be a convenient Mexican food fix. The food is a little better than average, and I would agree with the reviewer who talked about the breakfast burritos, they are pretty good and very filling. There is nothing "spicy" here for anyone who likes their food hot like I do, but the chips and salsa are pretty good. HOWEVER, they hose you on this as after the first basket, which is really not that big, they start charging you per basket. They can only get away with this because they are the only game in town for the 2-3 blocks around the Capitol. I would rather they just start by saying $2 for unlimited chips etec...., but because of this, I really prefer getting in my car and going to one of the many "great" places within 2-3 miles of the Capitol. It's a principle thing....in a pinch, this will do, but nothing to "plan" your day around.
(3)Ryan C.
Great food but not fine dining. P.S. just the right price!
(3)Tom S.
A tale of two Emilio's. If you partake inside, I've always been able to get seated by the window and had the best cheap margs and mexican food in Denver. Of course you can pay 3 times more and get perhaps 1 times better product but the value ratio speaks for itself. Then there is the outside patio. I've never had a clean experience, the orders aren't right and the service is much slower. The upside to the patio is that it is prime hipster watching territory and you can keep an eye on your scooter. That is all.
(4)Nicholas ..
$1.75 Margaritas that are strong and delicious! The food is pretty run of the mill Mexican food. Best part is how cheap you can get full and buzzed.
(4)Don C.
Best Mexican food I have had outside Tucson! Prices were excellent , staff was cheerful and attentive. At a Technology conference and will try to go back while i am in town. Reccomended
(5)Geenie C.
Still the best deal in town for amazing carnitas and breakfast burritos. The breakfast burritos are so big they just fold them in half and all for under $5!!!! I have cravings for the carnitas plate and green chili that cannot be remedied unless it's from Emilio's. My one wish is that they were open on Sunday's for those lazy days that need to start off with a big burrito.
(4)Amy M.
I am compelled to write a review because I just discovered the place and had a great experience. I would encourage those who wrote reviews a few years ago when it opened to give it a second chance! I went with a group of friends and had the (very substantial!) $1.75 margaritas for happy hour. Wow. Chips and salsa were also good. I did not order any food but my friends did, and I didn't hear any complaints. Overall it has a comfortable atmosphere, good prices, and friendly and attentive staff.
(4)Thomas S.
Eh? There is really nothing good or bad to say about the place. They deliver what you'd expect. Their salsa was decent. Green chile was good. The burrito was okay. Service was quick, efficient and friend...and not overly sufficating. Overall, it makes a good lunch quickie.
(3)Christina H.
Emilio's is a cute little place right on Colfax, but don't let that scare you, it's quite clean inside. It's really cheap and offers pretty good chile, authentic, fast Mexican food. Its a great spot for lunch, though it can get a bit busy. Viva burritos!
(4)d t.
I show up there at 8am and they're barely open. it is a cool place.The smothered french fries with green chile is really good.So darn tasty: a 14 inch oval plate of good french fries and the lovely green chile on top. I could live on this stuff.This place feels like a family. The light coming in the broad windows facing Colfax light up the place.I just want this place to win.Parking on Colfax is a quarter per half hour-not so bad. P.S. French Fries smothered with gravy reminds me of back east. I read this is a staple of "fine cuisine" in Canada.This dish at Emilio's is a nice approximation.
(3)