So happy to have found a good late night taco place with variety of salsas going from mild taco to Roasted Chile, to habonero. All the flavors were different and tasted fresh. My favorite of the four tacos were lengua and baja fish. My four tacos, and horchata rán just over $10. No doubt I will return...so happy to have gotten my Mexican taco fix tonight.
(4)
Ka'imi L.
Delicious, inexpensive Mexican food at its finest. Definitely a must-try if you're craving Mexican, but short on cash. Mexicali Express is in a bit of an awkward location, sandwiched between Canyon and Farmington on Cedar Hills Blvd. Lots of parking available out front. We went in and placed an order with the cashier. Our total for two people for lunch was about $12. We got our food within minutes, and it was delicious! Overall I'd say it's worth a return trip. I'm interested to try their other menu items!
(4)
David D.
Really, people? ! Yelp has failed me today, and now I am left questioning the integrity of this review platform. Everything about this place is watered down for gringo consumption. The food is bland and devoid of vibrance, the guacamole is served with black olives in it, you can get a generic crispy taco meal with fries. FRIES!! Ochoa lupitas is 10 minutes east of here, and he is bringing the comida autentico in a big way.
(2)
Jacob L.
As a Californian, born and raised, who loves good, cheap, Mexican food, this is the place to eat!
(5)
CeCe R.
I might have kept driving but I read another review who said stop! Glad I did. It's fresh and tasty. Maybe not the best sit down place if you want ambience. If I want that I'll probably go up the road, but if you need to bring dinner home or stop for lunch, good choice. The tacos are good, beef supremas. Black bean and rice burrito and quesadilla also good. Not greasy at all! We've now been a few times and I'd recommend.
(4)
Estefania V.
Not impressed. Tacos are $1.65 each and they're not even that great. It seemed like the tortillas were just cooked in the microwave (gross). The "agua de jamaica" tasted like juice from the store (too sugary). Not worth my money, nor time. Sorry, I've had better.
(1)
Alyssa B.
I love this place! They have amazing breakfast burritos. I really enjoy their salsa ranch! I come here very frequently and would recommend to anyone!
(5)
Elizabeth K.
UPDATE and moving to 5 Stars! They quit using STYRAFOAM!!! Thank you Mexacalli Express! Now I don't need to take my food cold and recook at home! Now PLEASE Gary, get going on the Gluten Free tortillas! If you are watching, you must be noticing the rising demand for GF...
(5)
Catalina D.
Let me start off by saying. I went to Pepitas before coming here. That place was ridiculously expensive. I wasn't looking to pay 3.75 for a street taco, My husband and I had left Pepitas, still hungry and looking for something to eat. He happened to see this place, and I was doubtful, Usually NOTHING good comes out of any place with the word "express" in it. I tell you what though! I was shocked. 1. The prices are fantastic! 2. The food is wonderful. 3. It reminded me of my childhood growing up in a traditional Mexican household. So let me delve a little into this. I had a Carnitas burrito, and it was so yummy, the meat was perfectly seasoned. Plus the rice and beans were cooked just right. They had also added some kind of spicy ranch sauce to it and that blew my mind. It was about 5.45 if I remember correct. Growing up my family owned several Mexican Restaurants and this place reminded me of the food we would eat there. So that is seriously amazing! For reals though, come here if you want wonderful food, good customer service, quick food and all for a reasonable price!
(5)
N K.
So this is definitely fast food Mexican, I am not going to trick people and convince people otherwise but they do get the food out quick, and make to order, with what they have its pretty good. There sanitation is really good which I think earns them a lot of credit.
(4)
Trevor P.
Phenomenal service; called in an order of 25 breakfast burritos for work and they had it ready for me! Great food, would highly recommend their breakfast!!!
(5)
Kerri L.
How many times have I driven by and not stopped until tonight? Way, way too many times much to my regret. A friend and I had already stopped at a few other places to grab a bite, but it was too late, and then my friend said "hey, have you ever eaten at Mexicali Express," and when I said no, we shot across traffic in her new car and there we were. My friend had the lengua tacos, which are her absolute fave, and I settled on the baja fish tacos. First the price was excellent at $2.49. Fish in tacos at other places tend to be big slabs of overly-breaded fish out of the freezer; in other words, no big whoop. However, here they were nicely-sized fillets of cod lightly breaded and fried and just crunchy enough to let the true fish flavor through. Oh such perfection. I was able to doctor up my tacos at their "sauce bar," which contained lots of salsas, some dressings, jalapenos, cilantro and onion chopped up together, and limes. Two of the tacos were more than enough (The Goldilocks size - not too big, not too small, but just right) and like I've said before, when the food is this fresh and tasty, the two tacos were more than enough. Mexicali Express is small and unpreposessing, but super clean (employees were actively cleaning up the kitchen while we were eating) and freshly painted in fun colors. The cashier was friendly and efficient at getting the food served and taking our money. So stop driving by here and wondering why you haven't stopped in and had a meal. Turn into the parking lot and get in here and have some great food. You'll be glad you did.
(4)
Melissa K.
I don't know what you are expecting when a place has "express" in the title. I am expecting quick and maybe the quality is sacrificed somewhat as a result. Here, I'm only half right. I've been coming here since I was a small child (I'm neither, now) and it's always been quick as well as delicious. I go to California at least once a year (SoCal) and eat so much Mexican and Asian food every time and this place still ranks as one of my top 3 all time favorite Mexican food establishments! It is what I expect--flavorful, a lot of bang for my buck, and service has ALWAYS been friendly for me. What I learned in Cali is that Mexican food is not supposed to be expensive, and what I've learned in the Portland Metro area is that expensive Mexican food does not always equal delicious food! Mexicali Express has remained consistently delicious, a great value, and friendly service for over 24 years! That's pretty awesome!
(5)
Monica G.
I've been coming here since I was probably 7 or 8 years old and I'm now 23 and I still love it! The Mexicali fries are a must (ask for extra seasoning). Everything is great taste and quality. However, since moving back to the area last August, I've noticed that every single time I eat inside, they start mopping the floors. This would be fine if it was just every so often, but it seems compulsive how often they mop! They mop right up to your table and it's with the harshest smelling cleaner I've ever smelled, which really ruins my appetite. Would have rated five stars without the compulsive mopping.
(3)
Dan C.
This is one of the most underrated Mexican restaurant's I've been to. Their chicken is always perfectly seasoned and shredded. They have a nice weekend Breakfast menu as well. With fast and friendly service, Great food, plus Video Poker in the back this is a "GoTo" spot for me when I want a Good reasonably priced meal in the area.
(5)
Casey L.
My favorite Mexican restaurant. I've eaten here for over 11 years. The staff is great. The owner is incredibly nice. The food beats out any of the local fast food Mexican restaurants easily. Their salsa bar has some of the best condements (I'm in love with their creamy habenero salsa... or sauce... whatever it is, it's delicious) and their prices are good. I also suggest trying out their mexi-fries.
(5)
sarah m.
Can't believe how terrible their food is, especially their burritos. The food was cold when we opened it, and the food tasted very bland like there were no seasonings. The guacamole was watery and tasted like it was just a mashed up avocado with a few diced tomatoes and olives on top, pretty tasteless. Lettuce in my chicken taco tasted stale and the asada & lengua were dry and and lacked quantity. For the price we paid I was expecting a lot more and a lot better!
(1)
Jim M.
The best mexican breakfast in Oregon!!! Been going here for 16 years.. Its always GREAT!
(5)
Christina D.
Love that they're open so late. The sauces they put in their burritos tend to make them mushy. However, the breakfast burrito (potato, egg, cheese, and optional meat) is really delicious! Ask for the salsa on the side and you're golden. The fire roasted salsa is delicious.
(4)
Cynthia W.
Just went here for the first time and ordered the Veggie Supreme Burrito with spicy sauce (you can order mild or spicy) and without sour cream, and it is DELICIOUS. I would have posted a pic but I ate it a bit too quickly. :-/ I love the use of both black and pinto beans. The spicy sauce is a nice heat that won't burn your face off, and you can add more salsa afterwards. The ingredients are so fresh and the burrito has just the right amount of cilantro (for me anyway - I'm a fan). It's also wasn't totally dripping and soggy at the bottom of the burrito, so they mastered the right amount of sauce. There are lots of choices at the salsa bar. I tried the mild salsa, taco sauce, and habanero. I mixed the mild and habanero and it was divine. We are spice lovers and there is such great flavor in the habanero sauce!! My coworkers got an array of chicken and beef burritos and everyone is yumming in their offices. Very quick ordering process and the food is out in a flash, so it's great for lunch. Will definitely go back here and recommend. ONE BIT OF FEEDBACK: I HOPE THEY GET RID OF THE AWFUL STYROFOAM TO-GO CONTAINERS AND SWITCH TO THE CARDBOARDY ONES.
(4)
Miranda R.
I've had a lot of Mexican food and this is BY FAR the worst shit I've ever had the misfortune of tasting. I ordered a bean and cheese burrito. How do you mess that up!?! I'll tell you how, courtesy of Mexicali Express. 1) Use store bought tortillas 2) Stuff with "beans" and an unidentifiable red sauce 3) Make sure to not wrap the bottom of the burrito so it all falls out upon unwrapping 4) Make it taco sized Most pathetic excuse for a burrito I've ever laid my eyes on/tasted. I can't speak on the quality of their other food but please, for the love of God, do NOT order the bean and cheese burrito.
(1)
Laura S.
This is my go to place for breakfast burritos. Everything I have tried here is good, the sauces are amazing and for how filling the food is, and how inexpensive the breakfast burritos are, this is a really good, delicious deal (can't beat the price or quality at other 'fast food' paces and can't cook this at home for the same price). I've made a tradition of picking up one of these breakfast burritos before I go to the beach. I have to or it just doesn't start my beach day off right. Also, my husband got the steak taco, he said it was the best taco he's ever had. I had a bite and it really was amazing.
(5)
Steven N.
The burrito portion size is meh. It tasted alright. When I opened it, sauce and rice was everywhere and it got my hands dirty.
(3)
Tasha H.
Awesome breakfast burrito, mexicali supreme! mmmm. My number one choice for Breakfast burritos. I will drive the 20 minutes for this. So its an old sort of run down joint, but its GOOD food.
(5)
Maggie T.
Solid, fast Mexican. Large burritos - the carnitas was delicious. A fun surprise on the menu are the MexiCali Fries. The seasoning is fantastic. The only reason I did not give 5 stars is that I wish the refried beans were creamier (but I'm really picky about refried beans). We will definitely be back!
(4)
Beth G.
Fantastic, authentic, friendly and always delicious. Unlike taco bell, the beef is REAL and 100% beef. You can taste the difference. Been coming here for over a decade and have never had anything bad. I love the Chicken Kahuna burrito with shredded chicken, black beans, rice and pineapple - Its so tasty and you get a filling meal on the cheap. I also got a chance to try their new Mexican tacos (with carne asada) and was really impressed at the freshness. My husband has also started craving the food. Their sauces are out of this world and they make them fresh in-house. I am personally obsessed with the salsa ranch dressing they have perfected, I would drink shots of it if I could!! They also have a drive through, in case you don't want to leave the warm of your car. Full service breakfast options now, from 9-1pm Saturday and sunday. Try this place when you are in the area, and don't blame me when you become addicted.
(5)
Valeen T.
Love this place, we eat here once a week (at least). We always get street tacos with an order of chips and guacamole. Don't forget to visit the salsa bar! Some may find it 'divey' - It's always clean and high quality food, that's what really matters to me. Atmosphere- comparable to Don Chilltos or Muchas Gracias
Too hot to cook, fish tacos are awesome! This is a great dinner stop for the gal on the go
(4)
Rachel C.
Best breakfast burrito you will ever have! Gotta try it. Just get some mexi-ranch and some jalapeños and it's freaking awesome!
(5)
Angela M.
Best Mexican breakfast I've ever had. The staff is always friendly, the salsa's are the best in Oregon. Very spacious, great food and clean. Highly recommend a try.
(5)
Valerie W.
I don't understand with all the times I have passed this place and lived and/or worked in the general area...I had never stopped in until recently! Burritos, tacos, they have all the basics. The place itself is clean, but nothing to write home about. Looks like it was an old Taco Time, or fast food place of the like. They have video poker which I found really odd. It seemed a bit out of place but they have it closed off so it's not as noticeable. Their prices are fair (Averaging $1.50 for tacos, $5 or less for burritos) You can get combo plates with rice/beans They even have fajitas, enchiladas, etc. A kicker...they serve lengua for all you adventurous folk. This place is a bit more authentic. Food is fresh tasting and not at all greasy. You can order beer which is a plus. Not a ton of seating, but they do indeed have a drive through. They also have a few seats outside. The staff is friendly and super quick to make your food. My favorite is the salsa bar they have. Fresh Pico de Gallo, Onion & Cilantro, Verde, Habanero sauce, taco sauce, jalapenos, the works...there's a lot to choose from...the Habanero sauce was yummy! They will cater to you if you have one-off requests....like I just want some grilled chicken. No prob! I've also tried their hard tacos...simple...good. Their chicken suprema burrito was pretty tasty as well. Rice, black beans, grilled chicken, sour cream, lettuce...was great with jalapenos, onion & cilantro added! Quick, cheap, and good food. Any filling meal you can get well under $10 is great in my book!
(4)
Mikhail H.
It kills me that I live right down the street from this place and just discovered it. Honestly I was shy with fear because the building itself scream dive - and not the good kind of dive. It just looks like someplace you go to get stabbed in the parking lot or something. The other night I was starving. Mexican sounded good but a drive through sounded better - it was almost midnight and this place was open plus I just discovered it was a drive through...and cheap! Seriously sit down places are better but they are also more money and require you to sit down or call ahead for take out. The convenience alone for half way decent food in a drive through is pretty amazing since I have a shift I work until 11pm - nothing is open..well nothing I would consider food. This place also has hands down some of the best chips and salsa around - all their shells and chips are pretty amazing - light crispy warm and fresh.
(4)
Jen E.
I have driven by this place a million times.... I never tried it. As anyone who has read my reviews know.... I am a little fond of tacos (TACOS!!!!!) I was with a friend who recently discovered this place.... we went thru the drive through and the owner was on the window. He helped us decide on a combo that we wanted ...... the combo wasnt on the menu. He listed to what we wanted and then .... made it a combo for us. SERIOUSLY .... how many places would do that? The taco had a warm and light shell, yet not so light it shatters when you pick it up or bite into it. The meat was lightly seasoned and well.... omg it was little bits of heaven. I also got a burrito.... my second fav thing. I was equally surprised with the ratio of bean and meat. The mini taco salads are tiny and cute.... and pack a wonderful flavor. I am surprised with the quality of the food, the pricing and the owners that work the front are sweet and wonderful. please do not pass by this place as I did for 2.5 years assuming the outside of the building reflected the quality of the food on the inside..... it does not. There is a drive thru..... order a taco.... you will see...... oh you will see
(4)
Justin M.
Saw this place on the side of the road and had to check it out. Food was Amazing! I had the carnitas burrito plate. The food is authentic and you get a lot for your money. Highly recommended!
(5)
Treva E.
I have driven by this place for years and aways overlooked it until recently. I tried it and am addicted!!!! Cheap prices, not too greasy, love the salsas, yummyyy!!! I loved my fish burrito and potato breakfast burrito. Highly recommended. Yum!!! Don't let the tricky driveway fool you :)
(4)
Mallory S.
get the nachos!!!! open late, so thats a bonus.
(4)
Cody W.
They really go the extra mile (for fast food) on their veggie burrito... this ain't just beans & rice.
(3)
Katie N.
The service was REALLY friendly. I had a ton if questions, and the man at the counter was so nice. He answered all of my questions very clearly and was not condescending at all. The food service was fast. Most of the prices were good, although our total bill was a little high for this type of restaurant. The carne Asada is spicy and has a different flavor than I'm used to, and I did not like the flavor of the corn tortillas, of which there were two with the carne Asada tacos. I liked the ground beef crunchy taco well enough, but it tasted just like Taco Bell's crunchy taco, although it did taste fresher and it was a night bigger. I also really liked the bean dip, but, again, it tasted just like Taco Bell's pintos and cheese. The portion was good size, too. The refried pinto beans were very tasty in my opinion, but the rice left something to be desired. The cheese was also very good which is important at a restaurant like this. In the future, I would get a ground beef crunchy taco and bean dip because that's plenty of food for me. I think it would be about $6 with a drink. I will come back if I'm in the area. It's one of the better Mexican food restaurants around here and it is cheaper than most. Our bill was $27 for two adults and two children, including drinks.
(4)
Kalon W.
Decent salsa bar. Other than that....yikes. Their portions are small. I bought a $6 enchilada dinner plate that only had 1 small enchilada and some beans and dried out rice. The beans were nice once I put some pica de gallo on them. The rice was too dry no matter what I did. The enchilada had clearly been microwaved as I don't see how you can make an enchilada dry otherwise. Their bathrooms are outside in the back of the building. Kinda scary. They lobby has some weird closed off area for people to play video poker or something. The whole place seems kinda sketchy. Staff isn't very friendly either. All in all, I can't recommend coming here on the basis of a decent salsa bar. These guys need work.
(2)
Robert M.
Cheap, good, and open late! If Taco Bell could do this, they'd conquer the world...
(4)
terryb B.
Best chicken soft tacos in the portland metro. And I'm a native New Mexican, so you can bet I have a bit of experience with the taco form. Great salsa bar too. Load that puppy up with cilantro, onions, pico de gallo, and salsa verde and you've got possibly the best $2.29 deal in all of Beavertron
(5)
Mike C.
Best Mexican in town. The #7 entree is the best. Pile on the cilantro and onions. Must have it at least once a month or else. Highly recommended!!!
(5)
Peter-Nathaniel H.
Coming from the land of entrapment in NM it is hard to find a decent Mexican joint up here in OR with all the white folk complaining about food being too spicy. Well I have found THE spot. Great quality food, inexpensive pricing, hot sauce that is actually HOT. While most other local Mexican restaurants are serving up tacos and burritos with weak sauce Mexicali Express constantly turns out the BEST food. Soooooooooooo many types of food to chose from there is guaranteed to be something for everyone... ...unless you like that taco bell crap. in which case you had better just go play in the freeway and leave well enough alone. The people are friendly and attentive. The customer service is stellar, the drive through is open LATE... Not to mention the yummy cilantro and onion mix they put on top of just about everything! Seriously, Next time your feeling the need for some dank tacos hit up Mexicali Express.
(5)
Nghia P.
Fast, yummy, and quality ingredients...
(5)
Frances B.
Amazing fresh food at a reasonable price! They service is always fast and friendly, they have good breakfast available as well. I've been going to this restaurant for years on a regular basis and probably won't ever stop going. This place is VERY clean and always get 100 on their health inspections. Mexicali is way better than Taco Bell. Everything natural and fresh.
(5)
William T.
Get the 'C' combo plate...it's never let me down. I can stuff myself for under five bucks. Woohoo! While I'll admit it's not the most healthy thing around it's dang tasty! Note: You have to ask for the hot sauce on the burrito that way you don't have to mess with slopping it on yourself.
(4)
Wolf L.
My continuing search for a decent burrito brought me to Mexicali Express. The place is within walking distance from my work. Uber orange paint-job on the building is kind of a turn off, but what the heck, that doesn't necessarily mean the food isn't good. It's a fast food set-up. You order and pick up at the counter. A full quarter of the dining area is walled off as an adults only lottery machine section. Weird but, hey, whatever brings in the dinero. I ordered a Chicken Suprema burrito. It was $4.59. The salsa bar had a variety of mild to spicy concoctions that looked pretty good. The burrito was pretty much okay. Nothing to go wild about, but definitely eatable. I'd go back again if the mood struck me.
(3)
Richard S.
Moved away from Beaverton and havent been to Mexicali Express in 5 years. I miss it. For 3 years before moving, i had 20-30 Chicken Kahuna Burritos, nothing else because those were SOOO good. Now in Arizona, i have found only one place with a burrito that rivals Mexicali Express.
(5)
Beth M.
This place is way better than any Muchas Gracias, but the secret is inside.... From the outside it looks like a Taco Bell turned independent, which might put some people off. But Mexicali Express has proven to be a solid choice when searching for fast mexican food. I love the breakfast burritos, but I find it odd that they do not serve coffee.....how do you open at 9 for breakfast, but serve not coffee?? They make everything to order, and the drive through is a tempting way to go, but unless you venture in and try out their salsa bar, you are really missing out. To me the must have item is the sweet pacilla chili...it is mild and sweet and delictable on everything form chorizo breakfast burritos to full on taco supremes....I have been known to stock up on the stuff while Hubs orders through the drive through. If you've never been, go. Get the taco supreme and drench it in the sweet pacilla chili. It beats anything Taco Bell, Muchas Gracias, or Bandito Taco dishes out any day.
(4)
Rich A.
Pretty good food for the price. It is a fast food style restaurant, with a good menu selection. Food didn't taste greasy which was a selling point for me.
(3)
Lori D.
This is my go-to fast food place The carnitas tacos are perfect, a big pile of juicy carnitas topped with onion, cilantro and lime on corn tortillas. The food is fresh, the are happy to prepare your food just as you like, they actually have cotija instead of cheddar and the guacamole comes in a pint container - not full - thankfully but a huge portion. These guys are super reliable, will make sure your food is what you want and serve it with a smile. Just say No to Taco Bell.
(4)
CK H.
Best. Tacos. Ever! I've been going here since I was a kid and they were on Burnside. Delicious, fast, friendly; great prices and hours. Not a fan of the video poker presence though, I cruise thru the drive-thru instead.
(4)
Rick C.
I love this place. So much better than taco bell and cheaper...
(5)
Lindsay L.
Oh, Mexicali Express - my family loves you so much! Probably because they used to eat there while in high school and it provides a ton of memories for them. I've always found the food to be consistent but not outstanding. Their fresh salsa bar is definately worth going inside for.
(3)
rick r.
It is what it is. Mexican food served in a fast food style. Which is different than in a taqueria style. There's a drive thru. A soda fountain dispenser thing. Salsa bar with similar range to a baja fresh. Plastic trays. Backlit overhead menu. And the food fits this paradigm. Unexciting, inexpensive, relatively satisfying grub. It's worth stopping by to mix it up from your usual destinations, or if you're stuck in traffic and you need a taco, but definitely _not_ a destination spot. I had a chicken supreme burrito (coupon from the entertainment guide). It was fine. Smallish, which is good for my diet, the chicken had good flavor and texture. The beans were inconspicuous. The salsa selection is decent. Green, mild, hot, super-hot. The super-hot was not, though.
(3)
Ethan L.
I used to go here all the time when I worked in the area. They serve up small, thin burritos, nachos, tacos and flat, round french fries. This isn't the taqueria type Mexican food we've gotten used to in the last few years...it's more like the "Mexican inspired fast food" popularized by Taco Bell. However, this place is independently owned and operated and in my opinion has better food than it's big chain competitors. One minus as far as Im concerned was the last time I was there they had converted a section of the seating area into a video poker den, which strikes me as not only kind of sleazy but also kind of weird... Shame on you Mexicali Express! Ha Ha! But hey, I like this place and Im sure I will be back.
(4)
Chloe B.
Best salsa bar by far. Not much for ambiance but the price is right!
(5)
Peter O.
Went in for the $1 tacos. You need 4 or 5 of them to fill you up if you like to eat. Pretty good sized menu. Oh yes they have breakfast burritos for under $5! Great selection of salsas (not all the greatest but I appreciate the variety). Update: You know what I wrote the above review when I was new to the area. Screw this place. You are better off ordering your food from one of the nearby taco trucks that parks in the area or just making your way to Muchas Gracias on Nimbus or the one in Cedar Hills on Park.
(2)
Sam R.
Pretty standard Mexican food. They are one of the few places that actually have fresh salsa. Their salsa bar has a actually pretty good selection. Portions are on the small side for a Mexican place.
(3)
Mike D.
This place is not bad, I like the tacos here and that they have lengua. I also like that they have a habanero salsa that is decently spicy. It is not great but it's right up the street so it will do when I don't feel like driving to taqaria santoyo.
(3)
R T.
Pretty good drive through mexican. I liked eating inside before they installed the video poker cubical, now I'd rather not step inside except to get the salsa bar options.
(3)
Debbie T.
I have been coming here for years. This is a drive through, or you can sit inside, If you are inside, you go up to the counter to order. The food is fresher and better tasting than Taco Bell. They have several types of tacos for $1.25, but I have never ate one there. They have a great salsa bar. I noticed today that they serve Mexican beers and they now have video poker.
(4)
chelley L.
the sign outside said $1 carne asada or pollo tacos, not bad. got carne asada, i want to say the meat is juicy, but the bf says its greasy. juicy greasy meat it is. i was suprised when it looked like taqueria tacos (two small corn tortillas, meat cilantro and onions.i was thinking i was at a taco bell for some reason). if i was super hungry, poor and hankered for some tacos and i'm lazy to get out of my car, i'd go here since they have a drive-thru. they also have a salsa bar with pico de gallo, salsa verde, hot salsa, mild salsa, and jalapenos. but you have to get out of the car and get it yourself. they offer other things like burritos, chile verde, mexican fries, salads, etc. thats all i can think of.
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Divey Noise Level : Quiet Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : No 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.
J K.
So happy to have found a good late night taco place with variety of salsas going from mild taco to Roasted Chile, to habonero. All the flavors were different and tasted fresh. My favorite of the four tacos were lengua and baja fish. My four tacos, and horchata rán just over $10. No doubt I will return...so happy to have gotten my Mexican taco fix tonight.
(4)Ka'imi L.
Delicious, inexpensive Mexican food at its finest. Definitely a must-try if you're craving Mexican, but short on cash. Mexicali Express is in a bit of an awkward location, sandwiched between Canyon and Farmington on Cedar Hills Blvd. Lots of parking available out front. We went in and placed an order with the cashier. Our total for two people for lunch was about $12. We got our food within minutes, and it was delicious! Overall I'd say it's worth a return trip. I'm interested to try their other menu items!
(4)David D.
Really, people? ! Yelp has failed me today, and now I am left questioning the integrity of this review platform. Everything about this place is watered down for gringo consumption. The food is bland and devoid of vibrance, the guacamole is served with black olives in it, you can get a generic crispy taco meal with fries. FRIES!! Ochoa lupitas is 10 minutes east of here, and he is bringing the comida autentico in a big way.
(2)Jacob L.
As a Californian, born and raised, who loves good, cheap, Mexican food, this is the place to eat!
(5)CeCe R.
I might have kept driving but I read another review who said stop! Glad I did. It's fresh and tasty. Maybe not the best sit down place if you want ambience. If I want that I'll probably go up the road, but if you need to bring dinner home or stop for lunch, good choice. The tacos are good, beef supremas. Black bean and rice burrito and quesadilla also good. Not greasy at all! We've now been a few times and I'd recommend.
(4)Estefania V.
Not impressed. Tacos are $1.65 each and they're not even that great. It seemed like the tortillas were just cooked in the microwave (gross). The "agua de jamaica" tasted like juice from the store (too sugary). Not worth my money, nor time. Sorry, I've had better.
(1)Alyssa B.
I love this place! They have amazing breakfast burritos. I really enjoy their salsa ranch! I come here very frequently and would recommend to anyone!
(5)Elizabeth K.
UPDATE and moving to 5 Stars! They quit using STYRAFOAM!!! Thank you Mexacalli Express! Now I don't need to take my food cold and recook at home! Now PLEASE Gary, get going on the Gluten Free tortillas! If you are watching, you must be noticing the rising demand for GF...
(5)Catalina D.
Let me start off by saying. I went to Pepitas before coming here. That place was ridiculously expensive. I wasn't looking to pay 3.75 for a street taco, My husband and I had left Pepitas, still hungry and looking for something to eat. He happened to see this place, and I was doubtful, Usually NOTHING good comes out of any place with the word "express" in it. I tell you what though! I was shocked. 1. The prices are fantastic! 2. The food is wonderful. 3. It reminded me of my childhood growing up in a traditional Mexican household. So let me delve a little into this. I had a Carnitas burrito, and it was so yummy, the meat was perfectly seasoned. Plus the rice and beans were cooked just right. They had also added some kind of spicy ranch sauce to it and that blew my mind. It was about 5.45 if I remember correct. Growing up my family owned several Mexican Restaurants and this place reminded me of the food we would eat there. So that is seriously amazing! For reals though, come here if you want wonderful food, good customer service, quick food and all for a reasonable price!
(5)N K.
So this is definitely fast food Mexican, I am not going to trick people and convince people otherwise but they do get the food out quick, and make to order, with what they have its pretty good. There sanitation is really good which I think earns them a lot of credit.
(4)Trevor P.
Phenomenal service; called in an order of 25 breakfast burritos for work and they had it ready for me! Great food, would highly recommend their breakfast!!!
(5)Kerri L.
How many times have I driven by and not stopped until tonight? Way, way too many times much to my regret. A friend and I had already stopped at a few other places to grab a bite, but it was too late, and then my friend said "hey, have you ever eaten at Mexicali Express," and when I said no, we shot across traffic in her new car and there we were. My friend had the lengua tacos, which are her absolute fave, and I settled on the baja fish tacos. First the price was excellent at $2.49. Fish in tacos at other places tend to be big slabs of overly-breaded fish out of the freezer; in other words, no big whoop. However, here they were nicely-sized fillets of cod lightly breaded and fried and just crunchy enough to let the true fish flavor through. Oh such perfection. I was able to doctor up my tacos at their "sauce bar," which contained lots of salsas, some dressings, jalapenos, cilantro and onion chopped up together, and limes. Two of the tacos were more than enough (The Goldilocks size - not too big, not too small, but just right) and like I've said before, when the food is this fresh and tasty, the two tacos were more than enough. Mexicali Express is small and unpreposessing, but super clean (employees were actively cleaning up the kitchen while we were eating) and freshly painted in fun colors. The cashier was friendly and efficient at getting the food served and taking our money. So stop driving by here and wondering why you haven't stopped in and had a meal. Turn into the parking lot and get in here and have some great food. You'll be glad you did.
(4)Melissa K.
I don't know what you are expecting when a place has "express" in the title. I am expecting quick and maybe the quality is sacrificed somewhat as a result. Here, I'm only half right. I've been coming here since I was a small child (I'm neither, now) and it's always been quick as well as delicious. I go to California at least once a year (SoCal) and eat so much Mexican and Asian food every time and this place still ranks as one of my top 3 all time favorite Mexican food establishments! It is what I expect--flavorful, a lot of bang for my buck, and service has ALWAYS been friendly for me. What I learned in Cali is that Mexican food is not supposed to be expensive, and what I've learned in the Portland Metro area is that expensive Mexican food does not always equal delicious food! Mexicali Express has remained consistently delicious, a great value, and friendly service for over 24 years! That's pretty awesome!
(5)Monica G.
I've been coming here since I was probably 7 or 8 years old and I'm now 23 and I still love it! The Mexicali fries are a must (ask for extra seasoning). Everything is great taste and quality. However, since moving back to the area last August, I've noticed that every single time I eat inside, they start mopping the floors. This would be fine if it was just every so often, but it seems compulsive how often they mop! They mop right up to your table and it's with the harshest smelling cleaner I've ever smelled, which really ruins my appetite. Would have rated five stars without the compulsive mopping.
(3)Dan C.
This is one of the most underrated Mexican restaurant's I've been to. Their chicken is always perfectly seasoned and shredded. They have a nice weekend Breakfast menu as well. With fast and friendly service, Great food, plus Video Poker in the back this is a "GoTo" spot for me when I want a Good reasonably priced meal in the area.
(5)Casey L.
My favorite Mexican restaurant. I've eaten here for over 11 years. The staff is great. The owner is incredibly nice. The food beats out any of the local fast food Mexican restaurants easily. Their salsa bar has some of the best condements (I'm in love with their creamy habenero salsa... or sauce... whatever it is, it's delicious) and their prices are good. I also suggest trying out their mexi-fries.
(5)sarah m.
Can't believe how terrible their food is, especially their burritos. The food was cold when we opened it, and the food tasted very bland like there were no seasonings. The guacamole was watery and tasted like it was just a mashed up avocado with a few diced tomatoes and olives on top, pretty tasteless. Lettuce in my chicken taco tasted stale and the asada & lengua were dry and and lacked quantity. For the price we paid I was expecting a lot more and a lot better!
(1)Jim M.
The best mexican breakfast in Oregon!!! Been going here for 16 years.. Its always GREAT!
(5)Christina D.
Love that they're open so late. The sauces they put in their burritos tend to make them mushy. However, the breakfast burrito (potato, egg, cheese, and optional meat) is really delicious! Ask for the salsa on the side and you're golden. The fire roasted salsa is delicious.
(4)Cynthia W.
Just went here for the first time and ordered the Veggie Supreme Burrito with spicy sauce (you can order mild or spicy) and without sour cream, and it is DELICIOUS. I would have posted a pic but I ate it a bit too quickly. :-/ I love the use of both black and pinto beans. The spicy sauce is a nice heat that won't burn your face off, and you can add more salsa afterwards. The ingredients are so fresh and the burrito has just the right amount of cilantro (for me anyway - I'm a fan). It's also wasn't totally dripping and soggy at the bottom of the burrito, so they mastered the right amount of sauce. There are lots of choices at the salsa bar. I tried the mild salsa, taco sauce, and habanero. I mixed the mild and habanero and it was divine. We are spice lovers and there is such great flavor in the habanero sauce!! My coworkers got an array of chicken and beef burritos and everyone is yumming in their offices. Very quick ordering process and the food is out in a flash, so it's great for lunch. Will definitely go back here and recommend. ONE BIT OF FEEDBACK: I HOPE THEY GET RID OF THE AWFUL STYROFOAM TO-GO CONTAINERS AND SWITCH TO THE CARDBOARDY ONES.
(4)Miranda R.
I've had a lot of Mexican food and this is BY FAR the worst shit I've ever had the misfortune of tasting. I ordered a bean and cheese burrito. How do you mess that up!?! I'll tell you how, courtesy of Mexicali Express. 1) Use store bought tortillas 2) Stuff with "beans" and an unidentifiable red sauce 3) Make sure to not wrap the bottom of the burrito so it all falls out upon unwrapping 4) Make it taco sized Most pathetic excuse for a burrito I've ever laid my eyes on/tasted. I can't speak on the quality of their other food but please, for the love of God, do NOT order the bean and cheese burrito.
(1)Laura S.
This is my go to place for breakfast burritos. Everything I have tried here is good, the sauces are amazing and for how filling the food is, and how inexpensive the breakfast burritos are, this is a really good, delicious deal (can't beat the price or quality at other 'fast food' paces and can't cook this at home for the same price). I've made a tradition of picking up one of these breakfast burritos before I go to the beach. I have to or it just doesn't start my beach day off right. Also, my husband got the steak taco, he said it was the best taco he's ever had. I had a bite and it really was amazing.
(5)Steven N.
The burrito portion size is meh. It tasted alright. When I opened it, sauce and rice was everywhere and it got my hands dirty.
(3)Tasha H.
Awesome breakfast burrito, mexicali supreme! mmmm. My number one choice for Breakfast burritos. I will drive the 20 minutes for this. So its an old sort of run down joint, but its GOOD food.
(5)Maggie T.
Solid, fast Mexican. Large burritos - the carnitas was delicious. A fun surprise on the menu are the MexiCali Fries. The seasoning is fantastic. The only reason I did not give 5 stars is that I wish the refried beans were creamier (but I'm really picky about refried beans). We will definitely be back!
(4)Beth G.
Fantastic, authentic, friendly and always delicious. Unlike taco bell, the beef is REAL and 100% beef. You can taste the difference. Been coming here for over a decade and have never had anything bad. I love the Chicken Kahuna burrito with shredded chicken, black beans, rice and pineapple - Its so tasty and you get a filling meal on the cheap. I also got a chance to try their new Mexican tacos (with carne asada) and was really impressed at the freshness. My husband has also started craving the food. Their sauces are out of this world and they make them fresh in-house. I am personally obsessed with the salsa ranch dressing they have perfected, I would drink shots of it if I could!! They also have a drive through, in case you don't want to leave the warm of your car. Full service breakfast options now, from 9-1pm Saturday and sunday. Try this place when you are in the area, and don't blame me when you become addicted.
(5)Valeen T.
Love this place, we eat here once a week (at least). We always get street tacos with an order of chips and guacamole. Don't forget to visit the salsa bar! Some may find it 'divey' - It's always clean and high quality food, that's what really matters to me. Atmosphere- comparable to Don Chilltos or Muchas Gracias
(5)Cheryl D.
Wow it has been awhile, update 7/2013 I was in the mood for Mexican food tonight but did not want to hassle with going out to eat, so I remembered my little Mexican drive thru! Have not been by for six months or so. Today I actually took a peek at the menu online and realized they had Fajitas, really I never noticed that before, that sounded good and it was incredibly inexpensive, so I did not expect much. Wow, what a value, it was a large amount of chicken and all the usual fixings that come with Fajitas, Guacamole, Sour Cream, Onions and Peppers (that had been sautéed), Refried Beans, the works. There is NO way I could even eat half of what was given. It also came with rice and 4 flour tortillas. The only thing I would mention is that it was pretty bland, needs a squirt of lime or something, not a lot of flavor in the meat or the guacamole. I put on a ton of super hot sauce and that helped. Enough for two people easy! Great Value! No more 14.00$ Fajitas for me!
(5)Raquel R.
Too hot to cook, fish tacos are awesome! This is a great dinner stop for the gal on the go
(4)Rachel C.
Best breakfast burrito you will ever have! Gotta try it. Just get some mexi-ranch and some jalapeños and it's freaking awesome!
(5)Angela M.
Best Mexican breakfast I've ever had. The staff is always friendly, the salsa's are the best in Oregon. Very spacious, great food and clean. Highly recommend a try.
(5)Valerie W.
I don't understand with all the times I have passed this place and lived and/or worked in the general area...I had never stopped in until recently! Burritos, tacos, they have all the basics. The place itself is clean, but nothing to write home about. Looks like it was an old Taco Time, or fast food place of the like. They have video poker which I found really odd. It seemed a bit out of place but they have it closed off so it's not as noticeable. Their prices are fair (Averaging $1.50 for tacos, $5 or less for burritos) You can get combo plates with rice/beans They even have fajitas, enchiladas, etc. A kicker...they serve lengua for all you adventurous folk. This place is a bit more authentic. Food is fresh tasting and not at all greasy. You can order beer which is a plus. Not a ton of seating, but they do indeed have a drive through. They also have a few seats outside. The staff is friendly and super quick to make your food. My favorite is the salsa bar they have. Fresh Pico de Gallo, Onion & Cilantro, Verde, Habanero sauce, taco sauce, jalapenos, the works...there's a lot to choose from...the Habanero sauce was yummy! They will cater to you if you have one-off requests....like I just want some grilled chicken. No prob! I've also tried their hard tacos...simple...good. Their chicken suprema burrito was pretty tasty as well. Rice, black beans, grilled chicken, sour cream, lettuce...was great with jalapenos, onion & cilantro added! Quick, cheap, and good food. Any filling meal you can get well under $10 is great in my book!
(4)Mikhail H.
It kills me that I live right down the street from this place and just discovered it. Honestly I was shy with fear because the building itself scream dive - and not the good kind of dive. It just looks like someplace you go to get stabbed in the parking lot or something. The other night I was starving. Mexican sounded good but a drive through sounded better - it was almost midnight and this place was open plus I just discovered it was a drive through...and cheap! Seriously sit down places are better but they are also more money and require you to sit down or call ahead for take out. The convenience alone for half way decent food in a drive through is pretty amazing since I have a shift I work until 11pm - nothing is open..well nothing I would consider food. This place also has hands down some of the best chips and salsa around - all their shells and chips are pretty amazing - light crispy warm and fresh.
(4)Jen E.
I have driven by this place a million times.... I never tried it. As anyone who has read my reviews know.... I am a little fond of tacos (TACOS!!!!!) I was with a friend who recently discovered this place.... we went thru the drive through and the owner was on the window. He helped us decide on a combo that we wanted ...... the combo wasnt on the menu. He listed to what we wanted and then .... made it a combo for us. SERIOUSLY .... how many places would do that? The taco had a warm and light shell, yet not so light it shatters when you pick it up or bite into it. The meat was lightly seasoned and well.... omg it was little bits of heaven. I also got a burrito.... my second fav thing. I was equally surprised with the ratio of bean and meat. The mini taco salads are tiny and cute.... and pack a wonderful flavor. I am surprised with the quality of the food, the pricing and the owners that work the front are sweet and wonderful. please do not pass by this place as I did for 2.5 years assuming the outside of the building reflected the quality of the food on the inside..... it does not. There is a drive thru..... order a taco.... you will see...... oh you will see
(4)Justin M.
Saw this place on the side of the road and had to check it out. Food was Amazing! I had the carnitas burrito plate. The food is authentic and you get a lot for your money. Highly recommended!
(5)Treva E.
I have driven by this place for years and aways overlooked it until recently. I tried it and am addicted!!!! Cheap prices, not too greasy, love the salsas, yummyyy!!! I loved my fish burrito and potato breakfast burrito. Highly recommended. Yum!!! Don't let the tricky driveway fool you :)
(4)Mallory S.
get the nachos!!!! open late, so thats a bonus.
(4)Cody W.
They really go the extra mile (for fast food) on their veggie burrito... this ain't just beans & rice.
(3)Katie N.
The service was REALLY friendly. I had a ton if questions, and the man at the counter was so nice. He answered all of my questions very clearly and was not condescending at all. The food service was fast. Most of the prices were good, although our total bill was a little high for this type of restaurant. The carne Asada is spicy and has a different flavor than I'm used to, and I did not like the flavor of the corn tortillas, of which there were two with the carne Asada tacos. I liked the ground beef crunchy taco well enough, but it tasted just like Taco Bell's crunchy taco, although it did taste fresher and it was a night bigger. I also really liked the bean dip, but, again, it tasted just like Taco Bell's pintos and cheese. The portion was good size, too. The refried pinto beans were very tasty in my opinion, but the rice left something to be desired. The cheese was also very good which is important at a restaurant like this. In the future, I would get a ground beef crunchy taco and bean dip because that's plenty of food for me. I think it would be about $6 with a drink. I will come back if I'm in the area. It's one of the better Mexican food restaurants around here and it is cheaper than most. Our bill was $27 for two adults and two children, including drinks.
(4)Kalon W.
Decent salsa bar. Other than that....yikes. Their portions are small. I bought a $6 enchilada dinner plate that only had 1 small enchilada and some beans and dried out rice. The beans were nice once I put some pica de gallo on them. The rice was too dry no matter what I did. The enchilada had clearly been microwaved as I don't see how you can make an enchilada dry otherwise. Their bathrooms are outside in the back of the building. Kinda scary. They lobby has some weird closed off area for people to play video poker or something. The whole place seems kinda sketchy. Staff isn't very friendly either. All in all, I can't recommend coming here on the basis of a decent salsa bar. These guys need work.
(2)Robert M.
Cheap, good, and open late! If Taco Bell could do this, they'd conquer the world...
(4)terryb B.
Best chicken soft tacos in the portland metro. And I'm a native New Mexican, so you can bet I have a bit of experience with the taco form. Great salsa bar too. Load that puppy up with cilantro, onions, pico de gallo, and salsa verde and you've got possibly the best $2.29 deal in all of Beavertron
(5)Mike C.
Best Mexican in town. The #7 entree is the best. Pile on the cilantro and onions. Must have it at least once a month or else. Highly recommended!!!
(5)Peter-Nathaniel H.
Coming from the land of entrapment in NM it is hard to find a decent Mexican joint up here in OR with all the white folk complaining about food being too spicy. Well I have found THE spot. Great quality food, inexpensive pricing, hot sauce that is actually HOT. While most other local Mexican restaurants are serving up tacos and burritos with weak sauce Mexicali Express constantly turns out the BEST food. Soooooooooooo many types of food to chose from there is guaranteed to be something for everyone... ...unless you like that taco bell crap. in which case you had better just go play in the freeway and leave well enough alone. The people are friendly and attentive. The customer service is stellar, the drive through is open LATE... Not to mention the yummy cilantro and onion mix they put on top of just about everything! Seriously, Next time your feeling the need for some dank tacos hit up Mexicali Express.
(5)Nghia P.
Fast, yummy, and quality ingredients...
(5)Frances B.
Amazing fresh food at a reasonable price! They service is always fast and friendly, they have good breakfast available as well. I've been going to this restaurant for years on a regular basis and probably won't ever stop going. This place is VERY clean and always get 100 on their health inspections. Mexicali is way better than Taco Bell. Everything natural and fresh.
(5)William T.
Get the 'C' combo plate...it's never let me down. I can stuff myself for under five bucks. Woohoo! While I'll admit it's not the most healthy thing around it's dang tasty! Note: You have to ask for the hot sauce on the burrito that way you don't have to mess with slopping it on yourself.
(4)Wolf L.
My continuing search for a decent burrito brought me to Mexicali Express. The place is within walking distance from my work. Uber orange paint-job on the building is kind of a turn off, but what the heck, that doesn't necessarily mean the food isn't good. It's a fast food set-up. You order and pick up at the counter. A full quarter of the dining area is walled off as an adults only lottery machine section. Weird but, hey, whatever brings in the dinero. I ordered a Chicken Suprema burrito. It was $4.59. The salsa bar had a variety of mild to spicy concoctions that looked pretty good. The burrito was pretty much okay. Nothing to go wild about, but definitely eatable. I'd go back again if the mood struck me.
(3)Richard S.
Moved away from Beaverton and havent been to Mexicali Express in 5 years. I miss it. For 3 years before moving, i had 20-30 Chicken Kahuna Burritos, nothing else because those were SOOO good. Now in Arizona, i have found only one place with a burrito that rivals Mexicali Express.
(5)Beth M.
This place is way better than any Muchas Gracias, but the secret is inside.... From the outside it looks like a Taco Bell turned independent, which might put some people off. But Mexicali Express has proven to be a solid choice when searching for fast mexican food. I love the breakfast burritos, but I find it odd that they do not serve coffee.....how do you open at 9 for breakfast, but serve not coffee?? They make everything to order, and the drive through is a tempting way to go, but unless you venture in and try out their salsa bar, you are really missing out. To me the must have item is the sweet pacilla chili...it is mild and sweet and delictable on everything form chorizo breakfast burritos to full on taco supremes....I have been known to stock up on the stuff while Hubs orders through the drive through. If you've never been, go. Get the taco supreme and drench it in the sweet pacilla chili. It beats anything Taco Bell, Muchas Gracias, or Bandito Taco dishes out any day.
(4)Rich A.
Pretty good food for the price. It is a fast food style restaurant, with a good menu selection. Food didn't taste greasy which was a selling point for me.
(3)Lori D.
This is my go-to fast food place The carnitas tacos are perfect, a big pile of juicy carnitas topped with onion, cilantro and lime on corn tortillas. The food is fresh, the are happy to prepare your food just as you like, they actually have cotija instead of cheddar and the guacamole comes in a pint container - not full - thankfully but a huge portion. These guys are super reliable, will make sure your food is what you want and serve it with a smile. Just say No to Taco Bell.
(4)CK H.
Best. Tacos. Ever! I've been going here since I was a kid and they were on Burnside. Delicious, fast, friendly; great prices and hours. Not a fan of the video poker presence though, I cruise thru the drive-thru instead.
(4)Rick C.
I love this place. So much better than taco bell and cheaper...
(5)Lindsay L.
Oh, Mexicali Express - my family loves you so much! Probably because they used to eat there while in high school and it provides a ton of memories for them. I've always found the food to be consistent but not outstanding. Their fresh salsa bar is definately worth going inside for.
(3)rick r.
It is what it is. Mexican food served in a fast food style. Which is different than in a taqueria style. There's a drive thru. A soda fountain dispenser thing. Salsa bar with similar range to a baja fresh. Plastic trays. Backlit overhead menu. And the food fits this paradigm. Unexciting, inexpensive, relatively satisfying grub. It's worth stopping by to mix it up from your usual destinations, or if you're stuck in traffic and you need a taco, but definitely _not_ a destination spot. I had a chicken supreme burrito (coupon from the entertainment guide). It was fine. Smallish, which is good for my diet, the chicken had good flavor and texture. The beans were inconspicuous. The salsa selection is decent. Green, mild, hot, super-hot. The super-hot was not, though.
(3)Ethan L.
I used to go here all the time when I worked in the area. They serve up small, thin burritos, nachos, tacos and flat, round french fries. This isn't the taqueria type Mexican food we've gotten used to in the last few years...it's more like the "Mexican inspired fast food" popularized by Taco Bell. However, this place is independently owned and operated and in my opinion has better food than it's big chain competitors. One minus as far as Im concerned was the last time I was there they had converted a section of the seating area into a video poker den, which strikes me as not only kind of sleazy but also kind of weird... Shame on you Mexicali Express! Ha Ha! But hey, I like this place and Im sure I will be back.
(4)Chloe B.
Best salsa bar by far. Not much for ambiance but the price is right!
(5)Peter O.
Went in for the $1 tacos. You need 4 or 5 of them to fill you up if you like to eat. Pretty good sized menu. Oh yes they have breakfast burritos for under $5! Great selection of salsas (not all the greatest but I appreciate the variety). Update: You know what I wrote the above review when I was new to the area. Screw this place. You are better off ordering your food from one of the nearby taco trucks that parks in the area or just making your way to Muchas Gracias on Nimbus or the one in Cedar Hills on Park.
(2)Sam R.
Pretty standard Mexican food. They are one of the few places that actually have fresh salsa. Their salsa bar has a actually pretty good selection. Portions are on the small side for a Mexican place.
(3)Mike D.
This place is not bad, I like the tacos here and that they have lengua. I also like that they have a habanero salsa that is decently spicy. It is not great but it's right up the street so it will do when I don't feel like driving to taqaria santoyo.
(3)R T.
Pretty good drive through mexican. I liked eating inside before they installed the video poker cubical, now I'd rather not step inside except to get the salsa bar options.
(3)Debbie T.
I have been coming here for years. This is a drive through, or you can sit inside, If you are inside, you go up to the counter to order. The food is fresher and better tasting than Taco Bell. They have several types of tacos for $1.25, but I have never ate one there. They have a great salsa bar. I noticed today that they serve Mexican beers and they now have video poker.
(4)chelley L.
the sign outside said $1 carne asada or pollo tacos, not bad. got carne asada, i want to say the meat is juicy, but the bf says its greasy. juicy greasy meat it is. i was suprised when it looked like taqueria tacos (two small corn tortillas, meat cilantro and onions.i was thinking i was at a taco bell for some reason). if i was super hungry, poor and hankered for some tacos and i'm lazy to get out of my car, i'd go here since they have a drive-thru. they also have a salsa bar with pico de gallo, salsa verde, hot salsa, mild salsa, and jalapenos. but you have to get out of the car and get it yourself. they offer other things like burritos, chile verde, mexican fries, salads, etc. thats all i can think of.
(3)