This place deserves zero stars. We should have turned around as soon as we saw a dead mouse right outside the front door. And that mouse had been there a while, as in long enough to not have any hair left. But my husband really wanted Mexican food, El Loro Burnsville was a huge let down, and we were already there. It makes you wonder how much the staff/owners care about their guests and food they are serving if they can't even take the time to remove a dead rodent from the front of the building. We were seated at a booth that was dirty, and it looked like there was a dead, smeared spider next to me on the bench. The walls were dirty, and it smelled a little funky in there. My husband used the rest room, and said the stall had a swinging door with no lock, so he had to try to hold the door while using the restroom. The food came out fast, but that was expected since there was only one other table. My husband started to feel nauseous from the funky smell of the restaurant, we asked for boxes right away so we could leave. I had about two bites of the burrito I ordered, and realized I had just wasted $12. I will never go back. I'd rather drive to Richfield to go to El Tejaban. So far, Mexican food in the south metro has been very disappointing.
(1)
Rhonda G.
I feel about this restaurant the way I feel about Keys and Trader Joe's, any location is a good thing. I love this location, and this area of Hwy. 13. Parking is good, and it's a single building next to a Culvers. There is actually a wheelchair ramp, and the building is very homey inside and out. It was a downpour day so I just felt like sitting in a booth in the bar. Even though there are multiple owners, they all serve the same chips which are some of the best. I like the flavor and the bright yellow color. The sauces always vary. The white one had more of a mayo flavor, than others I've had. I got my usual hard shell beef tacos. What a difference cheese can make. They use a coarse shred, and it takes away how fabulous these can be. The stand out for finely shredded cheese and sauce and salsa and chips is a clear Eagan location. My server was very attentive, and always checking in. I think this is the coziest one I've been too, and would come back for that reason, and the food is basically consistent.
(4)
Nicole R.
This is truly one of our favorites. There is nothing fancy about this place, its not a romantic place to go but, if you want some quick to the table, good Mexican (for Minnesota) this is one of our staples. They are quick to right wrongs which doesnt happen often and its reasonably priced. We took the entire family last night after boating, 2 adults and five kids it was about ten bucks a plate (with arnold palmers all around) On Sundays they have a mariachi band playing and they actually got our teenagers who are just too cool to get up and dance. Very fun and entertaining. Like I said, one of our staples and when its not 100 degrees out, they do have an outside patio.
(4)
Ray C.
Did you ever go to a movie because you heard it was good, then two minutes into the film you start to regret going because it is so stupid? But you decide to stick with the movie hoping it will get better. Sometimes it gets worse and sometimes it gets better. That is how I feel about this place- ten minutes after walking into this place I began to think I made a mistake, but I decided to stay because it was late on a Friday night and I was hungry and I saw potential. Well, I am glad I stayed- the primary meal was excellent, but not the entire experience. The place was jammed pack, but I did not have a car and was staying at the hotel next door, so my choices were this place or a Culvers. I was greeted by what looked like a 12 year old girl at the very crowded front desk who told me that there was a ten minute wait. So, I said "OK, I will wait". I moved from the very crowded front lobby to right outside the front door. That was a mistake- she did not take my name. Five minutes later, I stepped back in and was told that she looked for me but I was not there so she gave my seat away. Partially my fault, but since the lobby was so crowded, I had to move away from people trying to pay their bill and check in. I stood there in full view of the Hostess so that I would not loose my next available seat. After being seated I was handed a basket of stale- very stale- chips and very watered down salsa. It was like Bloody Mary mix with a few onions. I like salsa with chunks of tomatoes, onions, cilantro spices etc. You know, salsa that sticks to the chips- not salsa that just gets the chips wet and flows right off. I asked the waitress what domestic beers she has on tap, and she said" Corona and Dos Equis". I then repeated myself placing emphasis on the term "domestic". She then stated that she "does not know much about beer". I then got up and walked about ten feet to view the bar to see what beers were on tap- I ordered a Michelob light. The beer was warm- it probably started out cold, but it was placed in a mug that was hot straight from the dishwasher- the handle of the mug was very hot. I do not like warm beer with stale chips and runny salsa! So far a "one star" experience. My Carnitas came out a few minutes later, and brought a smile to my face! The portion was huge, the meat was moist and seasoned excellently! Very glad I stayed for the plot twist! The rice and beans were also good. I recommend the carnitas if you like seasoned pork. Maybe my experience would have been different if the place was not so busy. If I went on a Tuesday night perhaps the mug would have been cold and the chips fresh. I don't know, based on the meal 5 stars, based on the beer, salsa, chips and experience- 1 star!
(3)
Nicola L.
By far the best Tex Mex in the area. The place is cramped and dated, but the food is passable and I do enjoy their salsa. The shrimp cocktail is also of note, but also feels a tad dated in presentation. The standard fare- rice, beans, etc. is quite good. The enchiladas are cheesy and the burritos are big. Staff is friendly and food is reasonably priced.
(3)
Jeff G.
excellent and authentic, Dos XX Dark!!!
(5)
Jeremy D.
This is mexican food/texmex food that - while a little Americanized - is very good. I have always found the service here friendly and attentive - my chips and salsa are always kept full and my drink never runs out. As far as a couple of the standout items on the menu, I would sugest the queso fundito appetizer - a cheese dip with chorizo sausage in it. While it isn't much to look at, it is AMAZING in flavor! As far as entrees go, there is the standard fare as well as a huge steak burrito you shouldn't miss and a mixed entree for 2 (I forgot the name, but it is the only one on the menu). You will be very happy with either of these dishes. El Loro is one of my regular haunts due to the good quality of the food, the friendliness of the service and the decent prices. Give it a try.
(4)
Sheshu P.
I had better Mexican food before. Prices are low, but food was ok.
(2)
Jamie H.
I swear there must be a school in Mexico that trains people coming here to open a restaurant in a very specific way. This is the "exact same" place that I go to in my hometown...and I've been to in other towns....just change the name...even the menu is basically the same. And you know what...OK by me...both places are delicious. I had chips and salsa and the Speedy Gonzalez for lunch. The service was fast and the food was hot and tasty. All for the outrageous price of $9...including my drink. I'll be back. Nice job amigos.
(4)
Eric S.
I really wanted to like this restaurant. We went to El Loro for dinner based on reviews online. The restaurant was nicely decorated and it was very festive. Mexican music was playing loudly and the restaurant felt very authentic Mexican restaurant. For a drink I ordered a house margirata and I was shocked that it was lukewarm and it was very weak. I asked the waitress if they offer ceviche or bistec and of course they didn't. The waitress recommended the seafood fajita so I went with her recommendation. When the food came I was so disappointed. The dish didn't have any flavor at all. My friend ordered the Yolanda and the dish came with a very stinky cheese and very dry. I would not recommend this restaurant to any of my friends. Even Don Pablos is better than this place.
(1)
Laurie K.
Have eaten here several times over the years. Went on friday night and tried an Delseco Amber beer on tap. It was really good! I dont drink alot of darker beers but this one I will order again. Waitress was very attentive though not very talkative. We ordered the chicken fajita for two it was really good and the portion was huge! Many great sides to top your fajita! My favorite was the white dipping sauce they served with your complintary chips n salsa. I put that white sauce on my fajita and it took it over the top!! Read another review on yelp says its ranch dressing & hot sauce. I am going to experiment! Price for fajita for two is $20 so for $10 each we filled our bellies and took home as much chicken fajita as we ate! Great food and bang for your buck!
(4)
Richard H.
Nice friendly family restaurant. Live music on Sunday evenings. They will play anything and are a lot of fun. The prices are reasonable especially when you get plenty of very good food.
(5)
John C.
I went here based on the previous recommendations and the whole experience was horrible. I enjoy both good authentic Mexican food and Tex-Mex. This was just a bland mess of food that would never pass in areas of the country where good Mexican food is served. The service was terrible to the point that we had to stand up and put on our coats so our waitress would know we were ready to pay. She did apologize for the bad service but they were completely dead that night so I don't know what the holdup was. The cheese in the enchiladas and chile relleno was neither authentic Mexican cheese or even cheddar cheese, but some cheap Velveeta garbage. The sauces lacked spice or flavor and the meat was poorly prepared.
(1)
Mary Jo C.
Never seizes to amaze me. I've been going here since it opened when I was in high school and the food and service are great! Plates always come out super hot and fast. I have a hard time steering away from my standard fried chimichanga because it's just so ooey gooey crispy and yummy. I've had the fajitas and several combos, but I always go back to the changa. The beans are great and rice just ok. Margs are also delish and HUGE!
(4)
E.J. D.
This is the best value for Tex-Mex cuisine you will find south of the river. Period. El Loro even gives Taco Bell a run for its money in terms of pricing, and completely destroys it in quality. That said, this place will never see a Michelin star. While it does strive for some more sophisticated fare by inviting steak and shrimp to the party on the high end, the price of an entree still strains to breach the $20 barrier. For dinner. Above all, El Loro offers a lot of choice. If the endless list of potential combinations of items doesn't suit your fancy, you can probably either substitute whatever you wish or simply order it a la carte. Even the margarita options cater to the picky diner. Every flavor is available, frozen or on the rocks, from a modest glass to fishbowl sized. While many of the menu choices are sub-optimal (avoid the egg- and chorizo-based dishes), nothing is outright mediocre. Especially for the price. While the food isn't always to die for, it definitely hits the Tex-Mex spot. The service is quick enough that you never feel abandoned, and often you get your food before you might expect it. If you're on a budget, this place cannot be beat. There are almost always coupons floating around as well so if you're on the fence you might as well grab a deal and try it. Overall, El Loro is a bargain hunter's paradise.
(5)
Candace R.
Once again, the meal was wonderful! Food is consistently good and portions are very generous - save room for dessert - they are all scrumptious!
(4)
Andy R.
The food is marginally authentic, but only just barely. The food was sort of decent, but my food tasted old like it was left overs. When nobody was paying attention, I went back into the cooler and noticed that they had lots of food in their cooler. This stuff had been there for days. It was not dated either, which is a health violation. I was likely eating food from the day before or earlier, and it tasted like it. This is not a very good Mexican restaurant. If you want a good restaurant in the Savage area, go two blocks west to Buffalo Tap. They have superb food. It's Triple-D worthy.
(1)
Ben K.
Very solid Chicken Fajitas for takeout. It's hard to go wrong on something like this, I've found. I took one star away from El Loro because I only got two tortillas with my order. It was odd because my initial reaction was joy when I unpacked my to-go bag and discovered loads of accoutrements like chips, red and green salsa, sour cream, guac, lettuce and some sort of ranch dip for the chips as well. It was so much stuff! I bet they could eke out a half-precent more profit margin if they cut some of this food cost ... that is if they indeed only give away two tortillas. The chicken was plentiful... and at the end of the meal, that's really what mattered! The to-go gal was super nice. I will go back because it's convenient and I enjoy supporting local establishments. I venture a bet next time I'll be able to amend my star rating to a four or five.
(3)
Lindsay W.
The food was excellent, the atmosphere was nice but really quiet. They need to play that music a little louder. My fiance and I went here in our search for a good authentic place. This being the third Mexican restaurant we've been to since we moved here, I was really hoping it would be good (the other places were just not very good). I was SO happy when I received my Burritos Mexicanos. Excellent! My fiance had the Carne Asada, said it was good. I didn't get a chance to try a mega margarita, maybe next time. They also serve you chips and salsa at your table when you first get there. The salsa was good, the chips were a little stale. The only one complaint, the hostess (when we walked in) was not very friendly. No biggy, I can put up with that.
(4)
Justine L.
By far the best authentic Mexican food that you can find in Minnesota. I have been to rural Mexico and El Loro is just like being there. Everything from the food, staff, decor and Mariachi band, I felt like I was back in Mexico. The chips and salsa are amazing and they are unlimited. If you're up for a challenge, try the hot green salsa. FYI... the chips come well before you even get water... no waiting around! LOVE IT.
(5)
Tina W.
Wanting a comfy, family friendly spot for Mexican in Savage? This will fit the bill. It fits the wallet too. Expected foods and drinks, but well done and good service.
(4)
Alex P.
I have eaten here for lunch and dinner for many years. I love that many more locations have opened up recently, however the atmosphere in those is something to be desired. So this LOCATION ( Savage ) specifically gets a five star rating.( Eagan's as well ) I have never had a poor meal from El Loro, just a range in service. The range was from excellent, to one instance where a waitress REFUSED to do her job. I solved the issue by walking out of the location, and heading to another. The staff at the Eagan location was more then willing to accommodate us. I see the waitress working at the local IHop now, so I assume the management took care of this issue head on. I recommend to anyone traveling by this location to stop and FEAST on the Fajitas For Two. The price rock bottom for the MAMMOTH amount of food you are served. I have yet to as a couple finish the entire meal, in fact I normally have snacks for 2 days after our visit. Authentic flavors with authentic feel. Dine here.
(5)
Nathan C.
Chimi taste good, but it was tiny, 9 dollars for the smallest chimichanga I've ever seen! I could have eaten 5 of these to get to a regular chimi. Server was not the friendliest, lots of unwelcoming in the from door, won't return
(2)
Anne P.
Too bad! Both food and service. Ordered a chicken enchillada and got beef enchillada. They replaced it by the chicken one when asked, which was dry and flaky! Tasteless taco and chalupa. French fries are not cooked properly. Ordered beans as a side for fajita, got it to the table when we finished eating. Overall, it's not a pleasant experience at all. I would never come here again.
(1)
Sandy G.
Food portions are way too small. Combo meals are limited in their offerings. Many foods are too spicy for my palate. Service can be spotty.
(2)
Mandy J.
GREAT FOOD. Authetic feel. I really enjoyed the meal I had at El Loro. The servers are kind and patient. We went there with a party of 25+ last night and they handled us with care and poise. From all 25+ of us, I didn't hear a complaint on the food. I'm actually still craving that cumin small and spicy residue left on my tounge!
(4)
Samantha M.
Love the food here. They give you an extra sauce with the chips and salsa that is awesome (not exactly sure what it is, has a creamy consistency but goes great with the chips). I always get the enchiladas, sometimes with the mole sauce which is great. My only complaints are that sometimes the music is way too loud, and the service is not always consistent.
(3)
Cyn B.
I have never had such horrible service than on 1/26/2013. My bf and I went for lunch and were seated right away, so far so good. After that it was just horrible. The server asked if we wanted anything to drink. I placed my order and she walked away not even bother asking for his drink order, 5 minutes later she comes by again and ask if we would like anything to drink. We placed our drink order and I looked at my bf asking wasn't that the same waitress???!! Finally we get our drinks and placed our food order. She brings my bf the wrong order, we have to flag her down just to get what he ordered. Than we are done with our meal and wait for the check, nothing. She is too busy chit chatting with another server in the kitchen. We flagged down a busboy and asked for a to-go box. Finally we see our waitress and we ask for the check. She goes back to the kitchen for more chit chatter, we see her again and we ask again for the check. Finally she brings it to us and we leave. We were there about 45 minutes longer than we would have liked to be. Just horrible service. The food was good, but I don't think I will ever go back.
(1)
Mark B.
El Loro is a great place ... love their food. Fajitas are great, staff is friendly. One thing I would say about the Mariachi band ... they come and play on Sunday nights at the Savage. Yes it's a nice touch, but the restaurant is small, so when they play it's annoyingly LOUD. They have a trumpet player as well as a couple guitarists. I will eat there anytime ... but I stay away on Sunday nights.
(4)
Ryan F.
This place is vary kid friendly. I was impressed when they brought out the kids meal first before the rest of the food. That way I could help my daughter and then take the time to enjoy my food.
(4)
Kathy C.
My favorite Mexican restaurant of all time. This place rocks!! The booths are hand-carved with little parrots and stuff and the bar serves up gigantic margaritas. Their food is SO GOOD, I recommend any of their combo plates just because that's what I usually get. Everything I have eaten here I have really liked. Their white salsa is not my favorite, but my parents are mildly obsessed with it. My favorite memory of this joint is when my girlfriends and I were freshly 21 and the mariachi band serenaded us AND bought us tequila shots AND Coronas. Man that was fun!!! The Mariachi rotates between the El Loro locations, call ahead to see where they're at if that is something that interests you. I think it's great and super entertaining.
(5)
Lindsay M.
Great food, great people, great atomosphere! The family owned restaurant has great food and a fun location to eat in. Prices are great, food is never cold and you aren't waiting. Try the "white sauce" with your chips... it is a mix of hot sauce and ranch dressing... mmmm!
(5)
Mark B.
Lately seems to be hit or miss. One time it is amazing and authentic...the next time, not so much. Does it depend on who is in the kitchen?
(3)
Matt C.
Very reasonable prices, food served in a reasonable amount of time even when it's busy. I've eaten there a few times and would not hesitate to return if I'm in the mood for mexican food! Staff has always been polite and I am seated quickly.
(5)
Jason R.
This is probably the best mexican restaurant in the area! This is not one of those places that say it is a Mexican restaurant and they have some pimpley faced high school kid working in the kitchen. They have all authentic mexicans working there, and they know how to make the food the best!
(5)
Michael K.
I was very skeptical of this place before going, even after reading several positive reviews. I would say that this place leans more toward Mexican food and less tex-mex, but it does a good job. I really liked the enchilada, taco, and tostada plate that I had. Great flavor. I did add a tamale on the side, but it was just ok. Margaritas are on par with what you would expect from a Mexican place, but nothing special. The salsa that comes with the chips was good and tasted fresh. I will be back to fill my Mexican food cravings...
(4)
Heather P.
I was very impressed that I could find authentic Mexican food in Minnesota. This restaurant happily surprised me! I ordered a burrito and chulpa. They tasted the same as when I order them in Florida. Service was good. This is a great place to go to get family Mexican food. The food does not taste like chain Mexican such as Don Pablos.
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 : Lunch, Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
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.
Kat S.
This place deserves zero stars. We should have turned around as soon as we saw a dead mouse right outside the front door. And that mouse had been there a while, as in long enough to not have any hair left. But my husband really wanted Mexican food, El Loro Burnsville was a huge let down, and we were already there. It makes you wonder how much the staff/owners care about their guests and food they are serving if they can't even take the time to remove a dead rodent from the front of the building. We were seated at a booth that was dirty, and it looked like there was a dead, smeared spider next to me on the bench. The walls were dirty, and it smelled a little funky in there. My husband used the rest room, and said the stall had a swinging door with no lock, so he had to try to hold the door while using the restroom. The food came out fast, but that was expected since there was only one other table. My husband started to feel nauseous from the funky smell of the restaurant, we asked for boxes right away so we could leave. I had about two bites of the burrito I ordered, and realized I had just wasted $12. I will never go back. I'd rather drive to Richfield to go to El Tejaban. So far, Mexican food in the south metro has been very disappointing.
(1)Rhonda G.
I feel about this restaurant the way I feel about Keys and Trader Joe's, any location is a good thing. I love this location, and this area of Hwy. 13. Parking is good, and it's a single building next to a Culvers. There is actually a wheelchair ramp, and the building is very homey inside and out. It was a downpour day so I just felt like sitting in a booth in the bar. Even though there are multiple owners, they all serve the same chips which are some of the best. I like the flavor and the bright yellow color. The sauces always vary. The white one had more of a mayo flavor, than others I've had. I got my usual hard shell beef tacos. What a difference cheese can make. They use a coarse shred, and it takes away how fabulous these can be. The stand out for finely shredded cheese and sauce and salsa and chips is a clear Eagan location. My server was very attentive, and always checking in. I think this is the coziest one I've been too, and would come back for that reason, and the food is basically consistent.
(4)Nicole R.
This is truly one of our favorites. There is nothing fancy about this place, its not a romantic place to go but, if you want some quick to the table, good Mexican (for Minnesota) this is one of our staples. They are quick to right wrongs which doesnt happen often and its reasonably priced. We took the entire family last night after boating, 2 adults and five kids it was about ten bucks a plate (with arnold palmers all around) On Sundays they have a mariachi band playing and they actually got our teenagers who are just too cool to get up and dance. Very fun and entertaining. Like I said, one of our staples and when its not 100 degrees out, they do have an outside patio.
(4)Ray C.
Did you ever go to a movie because you heard it was good, then two minutes into the film you start to regret going because it is so stupid? But you decide to stick with the movie hoping it will get better. Sometimes it gets worse and sometimes it gets better. That is how I feel about this place- ten minutes after walking into this place I began to think I made a mistake, but I decided to stay because it was late on a Friday night and I was hungry and I saw potential. Well, I am glad I stayed- the primary meal was excellent, but not the entire experience. The place was jammed pack, but I did not have a car and was staying at the hotel next door, so my choices were this place or a Culvers. I was greeted by what looked like a 12 year old girl at the very crowded front desk who told me that there was a ten minute wait. So, I said "OK, I will wait". I moved from the very crowded front lobby to right outside the front door. That was a mistake- she did not take my name. Five minutes later, I stepped back in and was told that she looked for me but I was not there so she gave my seat away. Partially my fault, but since the lobby was so crowded, I had to move away from people trying to pay their bill and check in. I stood there in full view of the Hostess so that I would not loose my next available seat. After being seated I was handed a basket of stale- very stale- chips and very watered down salsa. It was like Bloody Mary mix with a few onions. I like salsa with chunks of tomatoes, onions, cilantro spices etc. You know, salsa that sticks to the chips- not salsa that just gets the chips wet and flows right off. I asked the waitress what domestic beers she has on tap, and she said" Corona and Dos Equis". I then repeated myself placing emphasis on the term "domestic". She then stated that she "does not know much about beer". I then got up and walked about ten feet to view the bar to see what beers were on tap- I ordered a Michelob light. The beer was warm- it probably started out cold, but it was placed in a mug that was hot straight from the dishwasher- the handle of the mug was very hot. I do not like warm beer with stale chips and runny salsa! So far a "one star" experience. My Carnitas came out a few minutes later, and brought a smile to my face! The portion was huge, the meat was moist and seasoned excellently! Very glad I stayed for the plot twist! The rice and beans were also good. I recommend the carnitas if you like seasoned pork. Maybe my experience would have been different if the place was not so busy. If I went on a Tuesday night perhaps the mug would have been cold and the chips fresh. I don't know, based on the meal 5 stars, based on the beer, salsa, chips and experience- 1 star!
(3)Nicola L.
By far the best Tex Mex in the area. The place is cramped and dated, but the food is passable and I do enjoy their salsa. The shrimp cocktail is also of note, but also feels a tad dated in presentation. The standard fare- rice, beans, etc. is quite good. The enchiladas are cheesy and the burritos are big. Staff is friendly and food is reasonably priced.
(3)Jeff G.
excellent and authentic, Dos XX Dark!!!
(5)Jeremy D.
This is mexican food/texmex food that - while a little Americanized - is very good. I have always found the service here friendly and attentive - my chips and salsa are always kept full and my drink never runs out. As far as a couple of the standout items on the menu, I would sugest the queso fundito appetizer - a cheese dip with chorizo sausage in it. While it isn't much to look at, it is AMAZING in flavor! As far as entrees go, there is the standard fare as well as a huge steak burrito you shouldn't miss and a mixed entree for 2 (I forgot the name, but it is the only one on the menu). You will be very happy with either of these dishes. El Loro is one of my regular haunts due to the good quality of the food, the friendliness of the service and the decent prices. Give it a try.
(4)Sheshu P.
I had better Mexican food before. Prices are low, but food was ok.
(2)Jamie H.
I swear there must be a school in Mexico that trains people coming here to open a restaurant in a very specific way. This is the "exact same" place that I go to in my hometown...and I've been to in other towns....just change the name...even the menu is basically the same. And you know what...OK by me...both places are delicious. I had chips and salsa and the Speedy Gonzalez for lunch. The service was fast and the food was hot and tasty. All for the outrageous price of $9...including my drink. I'll be back. Nice job amigos.
(4)Eric S.
I really wanted to like this restaurant. We went to El Loro for dinner based on reviews online. The restaurant was nicely decorated and it was very festive. Mexican music was playing loudly and the restaurant felt very authentic Mexican restaurant. For a drink I ordered a house margirata and I was shocked that it was lukewarm and it was very weak. I asked the waitress if they offer ceviche or bistec and of course they didn't. The waitress recommended the seafood fajita so I went with her recommendation. When the food came I was so disappointed. The dish didn't have any flavor at all. My friend ordered the Yolanda and the dish came with a very stinky cheese and very dry. I would not recommend this restaurant to any of my friends. Even Don Pablos is better than this place.
(1)Laurie K.
Have eaten here several times over the years. Went on friday night and tried an Delseco Amber beer on tap. It was really good! I dont drink alot of darker beers but this one I will order again. Waitress was very attentive though not very talkative. We ordered the chicken fajita for two it was really good and the portion was huge! Many great sides to top your fajita! My favorite was the white dipping sauce they served with your complintary chips n salsa. I put that white sauce on my fajita and it took it over the top!! Read another review on yelp says its ranch dressing & hot sauce. I am going to experiment! Price for fajita for two is $20 so for $10 each we filled our bellies and took home as much chicken fajita as we ate! Great food and bang for your buck!
(4)Richard H.
Nice friendly family restaurant. Live music on Sunday evenings. They will play anything and are a lot of fun. The prices are reasonable especially when you get plenty of very good food.
(5)John C.
I went here based on the previous recommendations and the whole experience was horrible. I enjoy both good authentic Mexican food and Tex-Mex. This was just a bland mess of food that would never pass in areas of the country where good Mexican food is served. The service was terrible to the point that we had to stand up and put on our coats so our waitress would know we were ready to pay. She did apologize for the bad service but they were completely dead that night so I don't know what the holdup was. The cheese in the enchiladas and chile relleno was neither authentic Mexican cheese or even cheddar cheese, but some cheap Velveeta garbage. The sauces lacked spice or flavor and the meat was poorly prepared.
(1)Mary Jo C.
Never seizes to amaze me. I've been going here since it opened when I was in high school and the food and service are great! Plates always come out super hot and fast. I have a hard time steering away from my standard fried chimichanga because it's just so ooey gooey crispy and yummy. I've had the fajitas and several combos, but I always go back to the changa. The beans are great and rice just ok. Margs are also delish and HUGE!
(4)E.J. D.
This is the best value for Tex-Mex cuisine you will find south of the river. Period. El Loro even gives Taco Bell a run for its money in terms of pricing, and completely destroys it in quality. That said, this place will never see a Michelin star. While it does strive for some more sophisticated fare by inviting steak and shrimp to the party on the high end, the price of an entree still strains to breach the $20 barrier. For dinner. Above all, El Loro offers a lot of choice. If the endless list of potential combinations of items doesn't suit your fancy, you can probably either substitute whatever you wish or simply order it a la carte. Even the margarita options cater to the picky diner. Every flavor is available, frozen or on the rocks, from a modest glass to fishbowl sized. While many of the menu choices are sub-optimal (avoid the egg- and chorizo-based dishes), nothing is outright mediocre. Especially for the price. While the food isn't always to die for, it definitely hits the Tex-Mex spot. The service is quick enough that you never feel abandoned, and often you get your food before you might expect it. If you're on a budget, this place cannot be beat. There are almost always coupons floating around as well so if you're on the fence you might as well grab a deal and try it. Overall, El Loro is a bargain hunter's paradise.
(5)Candace R.
Once again, the meal was wonderful! Food is consistently good and portions are very generous - save room for dessert - they are all scrumptious!
(4)Andy R.
The food is marginally authentic, but only just barely. The food was sort of decent, but my food tasted old like it was left overs. When nobody was paying attention, I went back into the cooler and noticed that they had lots of food in their cooler. This stuff had been there for days. It was not dated either, which is a health violation. I was likely eating food from the day before or earlier, and it tasted like it. This is not a very good Mexican restaurant. If you want a good restaurant in the Savage area, go two blocks west to Buffalo Tap. They have superb food. It's Triple-D worthy.
(1)Ben K.
Very solid Chicken Fajitas for takeout. It's hard to go wrong on something like this, I've found. I took one star away from El Loro because I only got two tortillas with my order. It was odd because my initial reaction was joy when I unpacked my to-go bag and discovered loads of accoutrements like chips, red and green salsa, sour cream, guac, lettuce and some sort of ranch dip for the chips as well. It was so much stuff! I bet they could eke out a half-precent more profit margin if they cut some of this food cost ... that is if they indeed only give away two tortillas. The chicken was plentiful... and at the end of the meal, that's really what mattered! The to-go gal was super nice. I will go back because it's convenient and I enjoy supporting local establishments. I venture a bet next time I'll be able to amend my star rating to a four or five.
(3)Lindsay W.
The food was excellent, the atmosphere was nice but really quiet. They need to play that music a little louder. My fiance and I went here in our search for a good authentic place. This being the third Mexican restaurant we've been to since we moved here, I was really hoping it would be good (the other places were just not very good). I was SO happy when I received my Burritos Mexicanos. Excellent! My fiance had the Carne Asada, said it was good. I didn't get a chance to try a mega margarita, maybe next time. They also serve you chips and salsa at your table when you first get there. The salsa was good, the chips were a little stale. The only one complaint, the hostess (when we walked in) was not very friendly. No biggy, I can put up with that.
(4)Justine L.
By far the best authentic Mexican food that you can find in Minnesota. I have been to rural Mexico and El Loro is just like being there. Everything from the food, staff, decor and Mariachi band, I felt like I was back in Mexico. The chips and salsa are amazing and they are unlimited. If you're up for a challenge, try the hot green salsa. FYI... the chips come well before you even get water... no waiting around! LOVE IT.
(5)Tina W.
Wanting a comfy, family friendly spot for Mexican in Savage? This will fit the bill. It fits the wallet too. Expected foods and drinks, but well done and good service.
(4)Alex P.
I have eaten here for lunch and dinner for many years. I love that many more locations have opened up recently, however the atmosphere in those is something to be desired. So this LOCATION ( Savage ) specifically gets a five star rating.( Eagan's as well ) I have never had a poor meal from El Loro, just a range in service. The range was from excellent, to one instance where a waitress REFUSED to do her job. I solved the issue by walking out of the location, and heading to another. The staff at the Eagan location was more then willing to accommodate us. I see the waitress working at the local IHop now, so I assume the management took care of this issue head on. I recommend to anyone traveling by this location to stop and FEAST on the Fajitas For Two. The price rock bottom for the MAMMOTH amount of food you are served. I have yet to as a couple finish the entire meal, in fact I normally have snacks for 2 days after our visit. Authentic flavors with authentic feel. Dine here.
(5)Nathan C.
Chimi taste good, but it was tiny, 9 dollars for the smallest chimichanga I've ever seen! I could have eaten 5 of these to get to a regular chimi. Server was not the friendliest, lots of unwelcoming in the from door, won't return
(2)Anne P.
Too bad! Both food and service. Ordered a chicken enchillada and got beef enchillada. They replaced it by the chicken one when asked, which was dry and flaky! Tasteless taco and chalupa. French fries are not cooked properly. Ordered beans as a side for fajita, got it to the table when we finished eating. Overall, it's not a pleasant experience at all. I would never come here again.
(1)Sandy G.
Food portions are way too small. Combo meals are limited in their offerings. Many foods are too spicy for my palate. Service can be spotty.
(2)Mandy J.
GREAT FOOD. Authetic feel. I really enjoyed the meal I had at El Loro. The servers are kind and patient. We went there with a party of 25+ last night and they handled us with care and poise. From all 25+ of us, I didn't hear a complaint on the food. I'm actually still craving that cumin small and spicy residue left on my tounge!
(4)Samantha M.
Love the food here. They give you an extra sauce with the chips and salsa that is awesome (not exactly sure what it is, has a creamy consistency but goes great with the chips). I always get the enchiladas, sometimes with the mole sauce which is great. My only complaints are that sometimes the music is way too loud, and the service is not always consistent.
(3)Cyn B.
I have never had such horrible service than on 1/26/2013. My bf and I went for lunch and were seated right away, so far so good. After that it was just horrible. The server asked if we wanted anything to drink. I placed my order and she walked away not even bother asking for his drink order, 5 minutes later she comes by again and ask if we would like anything to drink. We placed our drink order and I looked at my bf asking wasn't that the same waitress???!! Finally we get our drinks and placed our food order. She brings my bf the wrong order, we have to flag her down just to get what he ordered. Than we are done with our meal and wait for the check, nothing. She is too busy chit chatting with another server in the kitchen. We flagged down a busboy and asked for a to-go box. Finally we see our waitress and we ask for the check. She goes back to the kitchen for more chit chatter, we see her again and we ask again for the check. Finally she brings it to us and we leave. We were there about 45 minutes longer than we would have liked to be. Just horrible service. The food was good, but I don't think I will ever go back.
(1)Mark B.
El Loro is a great place ... love their food. Fajitas are great, staff is friendly. One thing I would say about the Mariachi band ... they come and play on Sunday nights at the Savage. Yes it's a nice touch, but the restaurant is small, so when they play it's annoyingly LOUD. They have a trumpet player as well as a couple guitarists. I will eat there anytime ... but I stay away on Sunday nights.
(4)Ryan F.
This place is vary kid friendly. I was impressed when they brought out the kids meal first before the rest of the food. That way I could help my daughter and then take the time to enjoy my food.
(4)Kathy C.
My favorite Mexican restaurant of all time. This place rocks!! The booths are hand-carved with little parrots and stuff and the bar serves up gigantic margaritas. Their food is SO GOOD, I recommend any of their combo plates just because that's what I usually get. Everything I have eaten here I have really liked. Their white salsa is not my favorite, but my parents are mildly obsessed with it. My favorite memory of this joint is when my girlfriends and I were freshly 21 and the mariachi band serenaded us AND bought us tequila shots AND Coronas. Man that was fun!!! The Mariachi rotates between the El Loro locations, call ahead to see where they're at if that is something that interests you. I think it's great and super entertaining.
(5)Lindsay M.
Great food, great people, great atomosphere! The family owned restaurant has great food and a fun location to eat in. Prices are great, food is never cold and you aren't waiting. Try the "white sauce" with your chips... it is a mix of hot sauce and ranch dressing... mmmm!
(5)Mark B.
Lately seems to be hit or miss. One time it is amazing and authentic...the next time, not so much. Does it depend on who is in the kitchen?
(3)Matt C.
Very reasonable prices, food served in a reasonable amount of time even when it's busy. I've eaten there a few times and would not hesitate to return if I'm in the mood for mexican food! Staff has always been polite and I am seated quickly.
(5)Jason R.
This is probably the best mexican restaurant in the area! This is not one of those places that say it is a Mexican restaurant and they have some pimpley faced high school kid working in the kitchen. They have all authentic mexicans working there, and they know how to make the food the best!
(5)Michael K.
I was very skeptical of this place before going, even after reading several positive reviews. I would say that this place leans more toward Mexican food and less tex-mex, but it does a good job. I really liked the enchilada, taco, and tostada plate that I had. Great flavor. I did add a tamale on the side, but it was just ok. Margaritas are on par with what you would expect from a Mexican place, but nothing special. The salsa that comes with the chips was good and tasted fresh. I will be back to fill my Mexican food cravings...
(4)Heather P.
I was very impressed that I could find authentic Mexican food in Minnesota. This restaurant happily surprised me! I ordered a burrito and chulpa. They tasted the same as when I order them in Florida. Service was good. This is a great place to go to get family Mexican food. The food does not taste like chain Mexican such as Don Pablos.
(4)