Two words: Pollo Fundido. Two more words: get it. I can't believe some of the reviews I'm reading. I've been going here for years and have gotten nothing but top-notch service and quality food. The margaritas aren't the best in town, but I'm no margarita connoisseur either.
(5)
M. G. D.
The food was good, service very quick and polite. My only complaint is price. Luckily for us, we had a Groupon coupon, so the price ended up being closer to what it should have been. I think we'll stick to El Kiosco for our regular Mexican dining. Nothing wrong with Chalapa that cutting the menu prices by 20% wouldn't cure.
(3)
Jessica R.
I've had decent meals at the Oakway location...nothing great, but nothing too bad. So after some wine tasting at Wine Styles left my date and I unable to drive elsewhere, we walked on over to Chapala for dinner. Strangely enough, the restaurant was deserted on a Friday night. This made for great service, but should have been a sign... I ordered a blended margarita, and while I like strong drinks, the tequila was just a little too strong in this one. Maybe it turned my stomach after a tequila-fueled birthday/high school reunion just one week earlier that didn't end well...but in any case, I couldn't even get halfway through the margarita. I ordered the enchiladas rancheras, and they just tasted off. The chicken was dry and crumbly. I couldn't finish it, and ended up with a sour stomach by the end of the night and the entire next day. I won't be going out of my way to come here in the future.
(2)
Chris F.
I would have to agree with many of the other reviewers on this one. The service was really great, our waiter was very friendly and helpful. I tried a sip of the strawberry margarita and it tasted good, nice ratio of tequila/fruit/ice/mix. Unfortunately the food was really sub-par. Noting wrong with it, just extremely bland and boring, from the meat to the cheese to the sauce. I didn't even bother taking my leftovers home with me. I will not be returning.
(2)
Christy B.
I like Chapala, even though the food is pretty much just passably good. The service is generally fast and friendly. I especially like the shrimp fajita quesadilla and black bean soup. It's a step above Mexican fast food, a friendly neighborhood joint, and you can have a margarita with your dinner.
(3)
Jando S.
This Chapala location is the lesser of two evils the Eugene Mexican chain. The restaurant itself is larger and rightfully so as it has slightly more spacious parking and a larger waitstaff to accommodate the bigger crowds. Food is about the same price and generally the same taste, however, the difference here is the solid service I've received each time. While delivery at the Oakway location is horrendous, the delivery here is semi-decent and is packaged well.
(3)
Aly S.
Amazing drinks and great/friendly staff. Friendlier than most of the staff in Eugene, which is always refreshing, considering how a lot of the customer service is here. The food is mediocre, it isn't anything to write home about, but its not bad by any means.
(4)
Ari D.
I've eaten at this Chapala location several times with my family and have never had a bad experience. If you require cheap or authentic, you should go elsewhere, but for what it is, the food is good and consistent and never too salty, a problem I encounter in many restaurants, Mexican and otherwise. The service is usually stellar, but most of the staff recognize my family and know us to be polite, reasonable people who tip well, so your mileage may vary. I have had mediocre service a couple of times in the afternoon when it's been slower. The complimentary (often fresh and warm) chips are unsalted, and the accompanying salsa is pretty good, if you like that mostly runny style of salsa with cilantro and a few onion & tomato chunks. The food usually comes fairly quickly for a sit-down joint, but if the place is busy, the wait staff will offer free refills on the chips and salsa while you wait. My glass is usually kept full of water that tastes good. If you order a soft drink, the staff often automatically bring you a refill when needed during your meal. While it's not the best value on their menu, I confess to being a sucker for the chicken fajita burrito. You get a giant burrito filled with grilled chicken, onions, green peppers, rice, and beans, topped with pico de gallo, guac, and sour cream. I usually manage to eat half of it and then take the rest home for late-night munchies. The combo plates are the best value. You can get two items for under $10 along with a side of beans and rice, some shredded lettuce, a tomato, and dollops of sour cream and guac. Half that plate usually comes home in a box. My daughter has long been a fan of the kid's taco - a crunchy corn shell with a choice of meat, topped with cheese, lettuce, and tomato. It comes with beans and rice on the side, all for five clams. Her appetite has grown this past year, so lately I've taken to ordering the Chicken en Mole plate and splitting it with her. We get a stack of warm corn tortillas to fill with chunks of chicken in mole (which is pretty good - rich but not too sweet) sauce, beans, rice, lettuce, and tomato. While we don't end up with leftovers, it's a bit cheaper and both of us go home feeling quite full. Helpful hint for saucy plates: use a chip to scoop up the extra sauce and put it in your tortilla; for some reason, there are no spoons provided with the silverware.
(4)
Elizabeth M.
Having read some of these reviews, I had to step-up and say What? I am really picky about my Mexican food, having traveled all over Mexico. Their specialty dinners are truly authentic. I've eaten there five-six different times and I've always had great dinners. Wait staff were all really friendly, they were really busy a couple of times and still good service. I have friends in Eugene that have taken me to both locations. Each one has a completely different atmospheres, one contemporary, the other a more traditional Spanish feel.
(5)
Kolleen W.
Having lived in Eugene and moved to New Jersey, what I miss the most is Chapala's, hands-down. There is NOWHERE else that I've been that offers tacquitos like Chapala's has, with soft tortillas stuffed with soft, creamy cheese and shredded chicken. That's definitely my favorite part of this place, but also notable is the ambiance, which is vibrant, colorful, ethnically-veritable, and fun. The restaurant is clean and the service is always friendly and quick. This restaurant-- the one on 29th and Willamette-- is definitely the better of the two in the area. I always end up feeling not quite right after eating at the location in Oakway Center... not sure why. Definitely, definitely go to this one, and if you're celebrating something, be sure to grab a fried ice cream!
(5)
Helios L.
Chapala in South Eugene gets 2 stars for free nachos during 4-6 Happy Hour every day. And these are deluxe nachos with all toppings but meat. Good margarita mix, too, and liberal on the salt. Cadillac size is often upsold by the bartender. haha Very "Tex-Mex Style" restaurant decor. The food is solidly good but not terribly authentic in terms of spice or certain flavors. Ask for extra Jalapeno cooked into your dish if you like any spice at all, and it will get markedly better. They make a Habanero salsa that's very good, and spicy as hell (have to ask for it). They have a huge menu. Seriously tons of options, with some creative dishes like a grilled chicken breast covered with freshly minced cilantro on a bed of chopped romaine, and a black bean soup that is excellent! The burritos are gigantasour, and vegetarians will be happy with the choices here. The smell of the fajitas always tempts me when I walk by (or in). Unfortunately, they're not very good neighbors for the people living in the area, so I can't commit to 3 stars. Until threatened with fines by the City, they had a delivery truck come every other Wed. morning at 4.45 am, for more than a year. I talked to management in person, then wrote and complained because the banging noises woke me up every time and made for a long day. They ignored me. I stopped being a customer and let my dollars do the talking. They still didn't change the schedule. Only when they got a certified letter from the code compliance officer did they reschedule it for 8.30 am. Weak tea. I'll make margaritas at home, and buy my food elsewhere.
(2)
Marie B.
The service was awful and the music was so loud I could hardly hear my family talking. The waiter wrote down my order wrong and when I told him that I got the wrong food he made me feel as if it was my fault. I felt bad for even mentioning it. We never got refills on our water or was checked on while the huge group behind us had all the water and service they could need. I think the waiter was just unhappy with us because I said something about my food. But despite all of that the food was good. I used to love this place but I will never be back again :(
(2)
Rachel S.
We were greeting with friendly service only to be given even better table service! I ordered the steak/chicken fajitas and they were delicious!!! What a wonderful place! P.s. Very good mango margarita!!!!!
(5)
Arielle W.
Always always delicious. It's a nice little place next to my house that I love to go to with my family, very family friendly by the way, with wonderful salsa.
(5)
Jack B.
Seen this place a hundred times and finaly tried it. Id go into detail what was ate but it was all very bland. Prices were as expected, service was okay. Just so many options in this town for $12 plates of family mexican food to waste it here on such bland food.
(2)
Mark A.
Tex-Mex is a pretty hackneyed genre, but still very popular. This place does it at least adequately. Chips and salsa are fresh and fairly mild to appeal to the gringos. Margaritas are good, and not so ridiculously large or strong that you're baked for the day. DLW got something called Mexican lasagna, which was a big wad of goopy cheese layered with tortillas. If you like that sort of thing, this is where to go. I had tacos al carbon, which were strangely served with Parmesan cheese on the outside, making them impossible to pick up with my hands, so I ate them with a knife and fork. They were not very spicy and on the dry side, but a touch of extra salsa helped. Rice and beans were very routine. Someone here praised their mole sauce, so we'll have to look for an item that includes it the next time we visit.
(3)
A. C.
On a positive note: Plenty of parking. We were seated right away. The salsa served with the complimentary chips was good. The restaurant was clean. My aunt wolfed down her spinach tamales and beans-I didnt try them, but I guess they were good because she said she ordered them before. The waitress was very prompt to refill her pepsi three times. However, I am going to agree with the "solid two star restaurant" and add a star for friendly enough service. I am from San Francisco and believe we have outstanding Mexican restaurants, so my bar is already set high. With that said, l was underwhelmed with my carne asada burrito. Although it was HUGE...It was also BLAND. BLAND. BLAND. The seasoning was lacking. So much so I should have asked for tabasco! I had to taste my mom's pork burrito to see if it was only mine, but she agreed seasoning was lacking.
(3)
Kim E.
Love the food, love the margaritas and wonderful service. I get something different every time I am there and never disappointed. Highly recommend
(5)
Don D.
I had absolutely the worst chili relleno I've ever had. Absolutely disgusting. How they kept a straight face when they put it in front of me I'll never know. It was pretty much a small thin omelette with a dab of cheese and two small pieces of canned chile. It doesn't even really rate one star, but this app won't let me give it less.
(1)
Niko M.
This place used to be really good with a service is really gone downhill. We ask for chips and salsa and they never came. Then we have to waitress for the chips and salsa again and she didn't even remember we after the first time. Its about 5 minutes later and we're still waiting for the chips and salsa. Also the deco is getting pretty ragged in here the seats are kind of falling apart. We'll see how the food goes.
(2)
Michelle H.
Pretty decent Mexican food. I had a combination of one pork and one chicken enchilada for lunch. The pork was good, chicken is a little bit dry. Beans and rice are ok but I really like their salsa. It's OK for less than $8.
(4)
Johnny V.
Food and service is great. One thing I would advise them to do is add a napkin dispenser at the tables or give out napkins when they serve the food. Overall great place. Coming back again for sure!
(5)
Oregon Food Junkie O.
I was really disappointed with Chapala's. Having recently moved into the fantastic South Eugene neighborhood, this was a real bummer since it's located so close. My food was over-cooked (scalded actually), extremely bland and served with what appeared to be cheapish beans and rice, and then to top it all off, my soda was flat. In my waiters defense, he was busy, but he basically did forgot about us and never offered to refill my flat soda, or bring me to-go boxes. Overall, the food was pretty darn poor and both my daughter and I experienced stomach aches shortly afterwards. I never slander and try to be as honest as I can, but this was just not very good in the slightest and one of the worst meals I've had in Eugene in recent memory. Much work and attention to detail is needed here.
(2)
Mary A.
Have eaten here twice at night and have been impressed. Food could be a bit spicier, but the selection is great - very impressed to see a whole Vegetarian section on the menu. Quick, pleasant service. Will be back.
(4)
Andrea D.
I would say that this is a solid two-star establishment, but I'll give them an extra star for a strong margarita and friendly service. It kind of smelled like someone's grandma's house inside and looked like a Denny's with a mariachi band painted on the wall. I ordered the tofu tacos. They were literally just slabs of tofu in a soggy soft taco shell. There was a little salsa inside and out, but that was it. I like my tacos with a little more substance! The rice and black beans and chips and salsa (which had a nice heat without being overly spicy) were decent. And it did come with a side of guac, so there's that. But. Definitely Mexican food for white people.
(3)
Janet M.
I moved to Eugene from Arizona many years back, and I liked Chapala. It was one of those drive by things, oh look a Mexican restaurant that doesn't look bad! I took my other Arizona-Oregon transplant friends there, and they liked it too. Yes, they do that "hola amigos" Oregon Mexican restaurant thing ( what IS that), but not too badly compared to some other places I've been. It's not FANCY Mexican food,or regional authentic for Mexicans Mexican food, it is definitely gringoized ( and Eugeneized, tofu carnitas, WHAT?) but it was clean, the service was pretty good, and I have admittedly liked the vegetarian options, including a veggie quesadilla with mushrooms and squash in it. We went recently with the father in law, who is super picky and still lives in the Eugene area, and he liked it a lot. They have brown rice and black beans, and he is something of a health nut, so that made him happy. My kid was satisfied with her food, too, which is always a good sign. I don't know if I would classify it as a chain, it's owned by a family and there are only two locations. Maybe a local chain?
(3)
Natalie V.
Haven't been here in years and forgot why until I started eating my dinner..... I tried something on a new menu called "Pollo Fundido". It sounded good on the description, but when it came to my table, I was very disappointed. They appeared to be square shaped semi crispy objects with sliced, processed american cheese on top. They might not have been that bad had they not put slices of processed cheese on top. Beans and rice were great, as always. But definately not a $14 meal. I also got a mixed drink that was all of 6 oz., the drink was $7, which I feel was over priced for what it was. Staff was very friendly and attentive, but I just wasn't too impressed with my food, my husbands dinner or the $45 bill!
(2)
Jessica V.
I've seen lots of mixed reviews for this place, but I went with three other people and we all really enjoyed our food. I got a burrito that had bacon in it (never would have thought of that) and it was freaking delicious! My boyfriend had the fajitas that come in the flaming skillet, and he loved them too. And everyone's a fan of their giant Cadillac margaritas. The waitstaff we had during our meal were all perfectly friendly, although the way they tried to work '"amigos" into every sentence (I assume for some kind of "authentic Mexican experience") started to remind me of the meow scene in Super Troopers. That certainly wasn't an issue, though. I didn't see much of the restaurant--we were in a booth tucked into a corner of it--but what I did see looked fine to me. I didn't notice any peeling paint like the previous review mentioned; I actually thought it looked like a semi-nice place. It isn't a super cheap restaurant--I think my big burrito was like $12-14--but I thought it was worth it. Next time I want to explore the bar!
(4)
Randall F.
Great mole sauce, which is really how I judge a good Mexican restaurant. If they can do mole right, then they can do quite a bit else as well. I had the picadillo enchiladas with mole. Very nice.
(4)
Michael M.
Bland. Better than Taco Bell, but not one of the better places I've been. Cheap, pretty good service.
(2)
Randy L.
Chapala's. What can you say? It's become a Eugene institution, big, clean, pleasant, a little boring. Good solid but unexciting American-Mexican food, big plates with too much food, lots of cheese, big menu with LOTS of choices. Everything's pretty good, nothing's very great. Kids like it. Granny likes it. Hell, I like it, for what it is. 3 1/2 stars for food maybe, a half star off for this location (go to the one in Oakway if you can, pleasant outside seating in the Oakway courtyard.) The kind of Mexican food MANY people like...
(3)
James L.
"That's a ridiculous taco." said my table-mate of my chalupa, and he was right. At the length and width of a Nerf football, no one would pick this thing up and try to shovel it into his mouth. Unless he wanted to be a micro-star on YouTube with the footage of some idiot schlep chomping down on dinner as it rained down on the front of his shirt. It's straightforward Mexican food for Americans done wrong. A ridiculous chalupa, a foregetable pork burrito and a cold cheese enchilada. Not as in it cooled in the window, but as in it was never heated to the point that the cheeses melted together. Ew. You can microwave it - I'm cool with that. I got the big boy combination with three items so I could take some to work for lunch. I'm an idiot, I did take it the next day. So I was sick to my stomach after dinner and after lunch. Again: I'm a dummy.
(2)
Jacob N.
I got what they call a mucho on their menu. All I ended up with was a mucho stomach ache.
(1)
Mike B.
Five for dinner....Tables only seat four. Sun going down....big windows....no shades....bad experience with the sun blazing in your eyes. Food: eh....the service was somewhat adequate, Daniel our server was very busy, and I had to go get my own utensils, because, as I said before...tables are only set for four.... Too noisy. Take your dollars somewhere else. In fact if you want the same food you were served here, most of it tasted as if it came out of a can.
(2)
Anna K.
Chapalas is a Eugene staple, and rightly so. Anyone who knows good Mexican food knows that you can find it at Chapalas. The salsa is out of this world, the service is fantastic, and you couldn't ask for better tortillas. My personal favorite dish is "Arroz con pollo." I have traveled to Mexico many times and still rank Chapalas' Arroz Con Pollo as my Number 1. The fun atmosphere is just another great reason to go there, and the fun family vibes make it perfect for a birthday party or dinner party type of thing....I had my birthday lunch there last week and they sang to me! Do yourself a favor and go to Chapalas, you won't regret it!
(5)
Jyoti N.
I had a couple chips and salsa while waiting for our take-out order. I walked home and got a violent stomach upset a few minutes later. I had not even touched the Chicken Tortilla soup I bought at this point. I'm not happy with whatever lack of hygiene that caused my illness. I rarely get sick
(1)
Rat B.
It was good. I expected some really inauthentic tex-mex, and this was much better than that. The salsa was indeed quite good, the carne asada was delicious, the beans and rice acceptable but typical. Ask for a side of sour cream and they fill an ice cream dish! They were also very cordial even though we stuck around chatting up until close. Twice as good as that Jalisco place out west 11th anyway...
(3)
Dwain C.
I ate lunch at "Chapala Mexican Restaurant" on 8/15/2012. It was my first time there. My friend Fred and his wife Donna (who live in Eugene) took me there. The food was very good but what amazed me was the portions. The portions were huge especially for the price.
(5)
James C.
I really wanted some Mexican food besides the ubiquitous burrito places, so I took the kids to Chapala. The chips came nice and hot and were really good. The problems started with the guacamole I ordered. It had black patches in it like when your get an over-ripe or rotten avocado. It also had nothing in it. No salt, no lime, no onion that I could see or taste. I think there were some flecks of cilantro, but that was all I could see. The waitress acted like we were a bother most of the time. She really looked like she wanted to be somewhere else. This was my first time there, so when I was a little indecisive when I was ordering, I thought she was going to just walk off in disgust. Maybe she was having a bad day. She did bring the food and everything else in a timely manner, so no complaints there. I got the fajitas with chicken and vegetables. It was okay. The homemade corn tortillas are much better at Ranchito grill. These were just the regular store bought ones. The decor is pretty grimy. We had rips in our booth with tape that was peeling off. The wood trim on the window in our booth had a couple different colors slapped on. When I see decor that is totally neglected, I tend to wonder what the kitchen looks like. The salsa and chips were the best thing here on the night I went. I would imagine the rest of the menu is serviceable and filling. If you want food with a tad bit of inspiration or creativity behind it, I wouldn't bother with Chapala. If you want a heaping plate of bland carbs you will find it here. It is not cheap either, so you might as well stick to the Burrito Boys and save a few bucks.
(2)
Carrie A.
Meh. Chapala's food is consistently bland, but not terrible, and the service is fine. The margaritas are good. I keep going back because the kids like it and because it's closer to our neighborhood than most other Eugene restaurants, but I'm always disappointed.
(2)
Penny R.
Very disappointed today. Went to lunch with 91 year old mom and sister. I ordered chicken taquitos and I was served something that resembled a deep fried burrito cut into pieces. Definately not the taquito I am used to having at any other restaurant. I told my server and the host about my disappointment and nothing happened; no apology,no offer to exchange, nada. I suggested that when Someone orders taquitos they need to inform them that they are DIFFERENT and do not at all resemble any taquito you have ever eaten. Also any comments to the wait Staff will fall on deaf ears!
(2)
Deb L.
Chips warm and salsa was tasty. Really good polla ala crema. Minimal attention from staff -1 star. Bathroom floor wet toilet leaks. However I would go back food was that good.
(4)
Andrew R.
I am completely perplexed that this place is crowded night after night. We had their burritos a couple nights ago. Without exception everyone in my family felt crampy afterward. Yikes! Their ingredients lack flavor. I ordered a chili relleno burrito. It was soaked with water. I had to eat half of the burrito before I could decipher the chili's presence. Even then it was flavorless. I couldn't even taste it. And I truly don't understand adding carrots and broccoli to Mexican food. It's entirely possible I'm out of the loop on that one. It is unfortunate that such a mediocre food establishment occupies this prime location. This isn't the only example of this phenomenon.
(1)
Guy K.
Excellent food. I usually have lunch at the 29th & Willamette location on Sundays, at least once every couple of months. The portions are bountiful, served hot, very appetizingly arrayed on the plate, and not overpriced. Staff is friendly and attentive, and they recognize me, as I have been coming regularly since their Grand Opening day in the late 1970s. It is a converted Sizzler Steak House, and the owners have loose affiliations with the Azteca/Casa Ramos chain in Washington (perhaps operated by in-laws of the owners of that chain...?) I recommend the combination plates and the nachos, and a large mug of Widmer's Hefeweizen beer, served with a lemon. I never hesitate to recommend this place.
(5)
Mischa H.
Tacos utterly without taste and enchiladas ho hum. Just another Mexican chain without character. Give this a miss!
(1)
Dan P.
Ugh, I so want to like this place. It's a short walk away, but sadly is by far the worst restaurant in the area. Their plates are way over-priced and the quality does not match. I can only wish that one day they see the light so we can get a good Mexican restaurant in the area.
(2)
G A P.
Bland, boring, cheese smothered mexican food. The last time I ate here (granted, it was a while ago) one entree came still frozen and the other filled with rubbery, completely unflavored chicken meat. I haven't been back.
(1)
Joshua B.
We really like Chapala - both locations. The service is usually very fast, the choices are plentiful (we are vegetarian), and we have three kids who always can find something. I cannot speak for meat dishes, but for kids' burritos, vegetable fajitas, and (my favorite) carnitas de tofu, it is a consistent sure bet. Portions are above average, so leftovers are possible too.
(4)
Chad C.
I'm torn on Chapala. On the one hand, it's close, the margaritas are good and service has always been fantastic. On the other hand, I have yet to have a meal there I would consider to be 'good'. Not bad mind you, just that everything I've tried has been fairly bland. However, it doesn't offend and the kids love it, so I find myself going back on a fairly regular basis...
(3)
Jen L.
I've been eating at Chapala for years...ever since college. My dad is from (extremely) southern California, so I grew up eating Mexican food - it's my favorite and I have it at least once a week (usually homemade). While Chapala is not the best Mexican food I've had in Oregon, it's close to my house and reliable. I typically get a small order of the Nachos Chapala, eat 1/3 or so and then take the rest home for leftovers. The servers are always really friendly and the service is fast. This location used to be much busier before they added the Oakway location (which is not nearly as good, in my opinion - however, it is centrally located). The chips are delicious and plentiful, and come unsalted so you can salt to your taste. It's not fancy or gourmet, but I like it!
(3)
Angie C.
Seriously insulting that a Mexican restaurant would charge as much as Chapala's does for sub par food. Averaging $12 a plate for something that I could purchase in the freezer section at the grocer's for about $3. The Willamette Street restaurant is hideous inside. It's filthy and needs a serious facelift. The customer service, if you can call it that, leaves an even worse taste in my mouth than the food. I really wish that people would realize that there is WAY better Mexican food out there. Hell, put some Taco Bell on a fancy plate and you'd be just fine.
Takes Reservations : Yes 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 : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.
Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.
Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.
Josh C.
Two words: Pollo Fundido. Two more words: get it. I can't believe some of the reviews I'm reading. I've been going here for years and have gotten nothing but top-notch service and quality food. The margaritas aren't the best in town, but I'm no margarita connoisseur either.
(5)M. G. D.
The food was good, service very quick and polite. My only complaint is price. Luckily for us, we had a Groupon coupon, so the price ended up being closer to what it should have been. I think we'll stick to El Kiosco for our regular Mexican dining. Nothing wrong with Chalapa that cutting the menu prices by 20% wouldn't cure.
(3)Jessica R.
I've had decent meals at the Oakway location...nothing great, but nothing too bad. So after some wine tasting at Wine Styles left my date and I unable to drive elsewhere, we walked on over to Chapala for dinner. Strangely enough, the restaurant was deserted on a Friday night. This made for great service, but should have been a sign... I ordered a blended margarita, and while I like strong drinks, the tequila was just a little too strong in this one. Maybe it turned my stomach after a tequila-fueled birthday/high school reunion just one week earlier that didn't end well...but in any case, I couldn't even get halfway through the margarita. I ordered the enchiladas rancheras, and they just tasted off. The chicken was dry and crumbly. I couldn't finish it, and ended up with a sour stomach by the end of the night and the entire next day. I won't be going out of my way to come here in the future.
(2)Chris F.
I would have to agree with many of the other reviewers on this one. The service was really great, our waiter was very friendly and helpful. I tried a sip of the strawberry margarita and it tasted good, nice ratio of tequila/fruit/ice/mix. Unfortunately the food was really sub-par. Noting wrong with it, just extremely bland and boring, from the meat to the cheese to the sauce. I didn't even bother taking my leftovers home with me. I will not be returning.
(2)Christy B.
I like Chapala, even though the food is pretty much just passably good. The service is generally fast and friendly. I especially like the shrimp fajita quesadilla and black bean soup. It's a step above Mexican fast food, a friendly neighborhood joint, and you can have a margarita with your dinner.
(3)Jando S.
This Chapala location is the lesser of two evils the Eugene Mexican chain. The restaurant itself is larger and rightfully so as it has slightly more spacious parking and a larger waitstaff to accommodate the bigger crowds. Food is about the same price and generally the same taste, however, the difference here is the solid service I've received each time. While delivery at the Oakway location is horrendous, the delivery here is semi-decent and is packaged well.
(3)Aly S.
Amazing drinks and great/friendly staff. Friendlier than most of the staff in Eugene, which is always refreshing, considering how a lot of the customer service is here. The food is mediocre, it isn't anything to write home about, but its not bad by any means.
(4)Ari D.
I've eaten at this Chapala location several times with my family and have never had a bad experience. If you require cheap or authentic, you should go elsewhere, but for what it is, the food is good and consistent and never too salty, a problem I encounter in many restaurants, Mexican and otherwise. The service is usually stellar, but most of the staff recognize my family and know us to be polite, reasonable people who tip well, so your mileage may vary. I have had mediocre service a couple of times in the afternoon when it's been slower. The complimentary (often fresh and warm) chips are unsalted, and the accompanying salsa is pretty good, if you like that mostly runny style of salsa with cilantro and a few onion & tomato chunks. The food usually comes fairly quickly for a sit-down joint, but if the place is busy, the wait staff will offer free refills on the chips and salsa while you wait. My glass is usually kept full of water that tastes good. If you order a soft drink, the staff often automatically bring you a refill when needed during your meal. While it's not the best value on their menu, I confess to being a sucker for the chicken fajita burrito. You get a giant burrito filled with grilled chicken, onions, green peppers, rice, and beans, topped with pico de gallo, guac, and sour cream. I usually manage to eat half of it and then take the rest home for late-night munchies. The combo plates are the best value. You can get two items for under $10 along with a side of beans and rice, some shredded lettuce, a tomato, and dollops of sour cream and guac. Half that plate usually comes home in a box. My daughter has long been a fan of the kid's taco - a crunchy corn shell with a choice of meat, topped with cheese, lettuce, and tomato. It comes with beans and rice on the side, all for five clams. Her appetite has grown this past year, so lately I've taken to ordering the Chicken en Mole plate and splitting it with her. We get a stack of warm corn tortillas to fill with chunks of chicken in mole (which is pretty good - rich but not too sweet) sauce, beans, rice, lettuce, and tomato. While we don't end up with leftovers, it's a bit cheaper and both of us go home feeling quite full. Helpful hint for saucy plates: use a chip to scoop up the extra sauce and put it in your tortilla; for some reason, there are no spoons provided with the silverware.
(4)Elizabeth M.
Having read some of these reviews, I had to step-up and say What? I am really picky about my Mexican food, having traveled all over Mexico. Their specialty dinners are truly authentic. I've eaten there five-six different times and I've always had great dinners. Wait staff were all really friendly, they were really busy a couple of times and still good service. I have friends in Eugene that have taken me to both locations. Each one has a completely different atmospheres, one contemporary, the other a more traditional Spanish feel.
(5)Kolleen W.
Having lived in Eugene and moved to New Jersey, what I miss the most is Chapala's, hands-down. There is NOWHERE else that I've been that offers tacquitos like Chapala's has, with soft tortillas stuffed with soft, creamy cheese and shredded chicken. That's definitely my favorite part of this place, but also notable is the ambiance, which is vibrant, colorful, ethnically-veritable, and fun. The restaurant is clean and the service is always friendly and quick. This restaurant-- the one on 29th and Willamette-- is definitely the better of the two in the area. I always end up feeling not quite right after eating at the location in Oakway Center... not sure why. Definitely, definitely go to this one, and if you're celebrating something, be sure to grab a fried ice cream!
(5)Helios L.
Chapala in South Eugene gets 2 stars for free nachos during 4-6 Happy Hour every day. And these are deluxe nachos with all toppings but meat. Good margarita mix, too, and liberal on the salt. Cadillac size is often upsold by the bartender. haha Very "Tex-Mex Style" restaurant decor. The food is solidly good but not terribly authentic in terms of spice or certain flavors. Ask for extra Jalapeno cooked into your dish if you like any spice at all, and it will get markedly better. They make a Habanero salsa that's very good, and spicy as hell (have to ask for it). They have a huge menu. Seriously tons of options, with some creative dishes like a grilled chicken breast covered with freshly minced cilantro on a bed of chopped romaine, and a black bean soup that is excellent! The burritos are gigantasour, and vegetarians will be happy with the choices here. The smell of the fajitas always tempts me when I walk by (or in). Unfortunately, they're not very good neighbors for the people living in the area, so I can't commit to 3 stars. Until threatened with fines by the City, they had a delivery truck come every other Wed. morning at 4.45 am, for more than a year. I talked to management in person, then wrote and complained because the banging noises woke me up every time and made for a long day. They ignored me. I stopped being a customer and let my dollars do the talking. They still didn't change the schedule. Only when they got a certified letter from the code compliance officer did they reschedule it for 8.30 am. Weak tea. I'll make margaritas at home, and buy my food elsewhere.
(2)Marie B.
The service was awful and the music was so loud I could hardly hear my family talking. The waiter wrote down my order wrong and when I told him that I got the wrong food he made me feel as if it was my fault. I felt bad for even mentioning it. We never got refills on our water or was checked on while the huge group behind us had all the water and service they could need. I think the waiter was just unhappy with us because I said something about my food. But despite all of that the food was good. I used to love this place but I will never be back again :(
(2)Rachel S.
We were greeting with friendly service only to be given even better table service! I ordered the steak/chicken fajitas and they were delicious!!! What a wonderful place! P.s. Very good mango margarita!!!!!
(5)Arielle W.
Always always delicious. It's a nice little place next to my house that I love to go to with my family, very family friendly by the way, with wonderful salsa.
(5)Jack B.
Seen this place a hundred times and finaly tried it. Id go into detail what was ate but it was all very bland. Prices were as expected, service was okay. Just so many options in this town for $12 plates of family mexican food to waste it here on such bland food.
(2)Mark A.
Tex-Mex is a pretty hackneyed genre, but still very popular. This place does it at least adequately. Chips and salsa are fresh and fairly mild to appeal to the gringos. Margaritas are good, and not so ridiculously large or strong that you're baked for the day. DLW got something called Mexican lasagna, which was a big wad of goopy cheese layered with tortillas. If you like that sort of thing, this is where to go. I had tacos al carbon, which were strangely served with Parmesan cheese on the outside, making them impossible to pick up with my hands, so I ate them with a knife and fork. They were not very spicy and on the dry side, but a touch of extra salsa helped. Rice and beans were very routine. Someone here praised their mole sauce, so we'll have to look for an item that includes it the next time we visit.
(3)A. C.
On a positive note: Plenty of parking. We were seated right away. The salsa served with the complimentary chips was good. The restaurant was clean. My aunt wolfed down her spinach tamales and beans-I didnt try them, but I guess they were good because she said she ordered them before. The waitress was very prompt to refill her pepsi three times. However, I am going to agree with the "solid two star restaurant" and add a star for friendly enough service. I am from San Francisco and believe we have outstanding Mexican restaurants, so my bar is already set high. With that said, l was underwhelmed with my carne asada burrito. Although it was HUGE...It was also BLAND. BLAND. BLAND. The seasoning was lacking. So much so I should have asked for tabasco! I had to taste my mom's pork burrito to see if it was only mine, but she agreed seasoning was lacking.
(3)Kim E.
Love the food, love the margaritas and wonderful service. I get something different every time I am there and never disappointed. Highly recommend
(5)Don D.
I had absolutely the worst chili relleno I've ever had. Absolutely disgusting. How they kept a straight face when they put it in front of me I'll never know. It was pretty much a small thin omelette with a dab of cheese and two small pieces of canned chile. It doesn't even really rate one star, but this app won't let me give it less.
(1)Niko M.
This place used to be really good with a service is really gone downhill. We ask for chips and salsa and they never came. Then we have to waitress for the chips and salsa again and she didn't even remember we after the first time. Its about 5 minutes later and we're still waiting for the chips and salsa. Also the deco is getting pretty ragged in here the seats are kind of falling apart. We'll see how the food goes.
(2)Michelle H.
Pretty decent Mexican food. I had a combination of one pork and one chicken enchilada for lunch. The pork was good, chicken is a little bit dry. Beans and rice are ok but I really like their salsa. It's OK for less than $8.
(4)Johnny V.
Food and service is great. One thing I would advise them to do is add a napkin dispenser at the tables or give out napkins when they serve the food. Overall great place. Coming back again for sure!
(5)Oregon Food Junkie O.
I was really disappointed with Chapala's. Having recently moved into the fantastic South Eugene neighborhood, this was a real bummer since it's located so close. My food was over-cooked (scalded actually), extremely bland and served with what appeared to be cheapish beans and rice, and then to top it all off, my soda was flat. In my waiters defense, he was busy, but he basically did forgot about us and never offered to refill my flat soda, or bring me to-go boxes. Overall, the food was pretty darn poor and both my daughter and I experienced stomach aches shortly afterwards. I never slander and try to be as honest as I can, but this was just not very good in the slightest and one of the worst meals I've had in Eugene in recent memory. Much work and attention to detail is needed here.
(2)Mary A.
Have eaten here twice at night and have been impressed. Food could be a bit spicier, but the selection is great - very impressed to see a whole Vegetarian section on the menu. Quick, pleasant service. Will be back.
(4)Andrea D.
I would say that this is a solid two-star establishment, but I'll give them an extra star for a strong margarita and friendly service. It kind of smelled like someone's grandma's house inside and looked like a Denny's with a mariachi band painted on the wall. I ordered the tofu tacos. They were literally just slabs of tofu in a soggy soft taco shell. There was a little salsa inside and out, but that was it. I like my tacos with a little more substance! The rice and black beans and chips and salsa (which had a nice heat without being overly spicy) were decent. And it did come with a side of guac, so there's that. But. Definitely Mexican food for white people.
(3)Janet M.
I moved to Eugene from Arizona many years back, and I liked Chapala. It was one of those drive by things, oh look a Mexican restaurant that doesn't look bad! I took my other Arizona-Oregon transplant friends there, and they liked it too. Yes, they do that "hola amigos" Oregon Mexican restaurant thing ( what IS that), but not too badly compared to some other places I've been. It's not FANCY Mexican food,or regional authentic for Mexicans Mexican food, it is definitely gringoized ( and Eugeneized, tofu carnitas, WHAT?) but it was clean, the service was pretty good, and I have admittedly liked the vegetarian options, including a veggie quesadilla with mushrooms and squash in it. We went recently with the father in law, who is super picky and still lives in the Eugene area, and he liked it a lot. They have brown rice and black beans, and he is something of a health nut, so that made him happy. My kid was satisfied with her food, too, which is always a good sign. I don't know if I would classify it as a chain, it's owned by a family and there are only two locations. Maybe a local chain?
(3)Natalie V.
Haven't been here in years and forgot why until I started eating my dinner..... I tried something on a new menu called "Pollo Fundido". It sounded good on the description, but when it came to my table, I was very disappointed. They appeared to be square shaped semi crispy objects with sliced, processed american cheese on top. They might not have been that bad had they not put slices of processed cheese on top. Beans and rice were great, as always. But definately not a $14 meal. I also got a mixed drink that was all of 6 oz., the drink was $7, which I feel was over priced for what it was. Staff was very friendly and attentive, but I just wasn't too impressed with my food, my husbands dinner or the $45 bill!
(2)Jessica V.
I've seen lots of mixed reviews for this place, but I went with three other people and we all really enjoyed our food. I got a burrito that had bacon in it (never would have thought of that) and it was freaking delicious! My boyfriend had the fajitas that come in the flaming skillet, and he loved them too. And everyone's a fan of their giant Cadillac margaritas. The waitstaff we had during our meal were all perfectly friendly, although the way they tried to work '"amigos" into every sentence (I assume for some kind of "authentic Mexican experience") started to remind me of the meow scene in Super Troopers. That certainly wasn't an issue, though. I didn't see much of the restaurant--we were in a booth tucked into a corner of it--but what I did see looked fine to me. I didn't notice any peeling paint like the previous review mentioned; I actually thought it looked like a semi-nice place. It isn't a super cheap restaurant--I think my big burrito was like $12-14--but I thought it was worth it. Next time I want to explore the bar!
(4)Randall F.
Great mole sauce, which is really how I judge a good Mexican restaurant. If they can do mole right, then they can do quite a bit else as well. I had the picadillo enchiladas with mole. Very nice.
(4)Michael M.
Bland. Better than Taco Bell, but not one of the better places I've been. Cheap, pretty good service.
(2)Randy L.
Chapala's. What can you say? It's become a Eugene institution, big, clean, pleasant, a little boring. Good solid but unexciting American-Mexican food, big plates with too much food, lots of cheese, big menu with LOTS of choices. Everything's pretty good, nothing's very great. Kids like it. Granny likes it. Hell, I like it, for what it is. 3 1/2 stars for food maybe, a half star off for this location (go to the one in Oakway if you can, pleasant outside seating in the Oakway courtyard.) The kind of Mexican food MANY people like...
(3)James L.
"That's a ridiculous taco." said my table-mate of my chalupa, and he was right. At the length and width of a Nerf football, no one would pick this thing up and try to shovel it into his mouth. Unless he wanted to be a micro-star on YouTube with the footage of some idiot schlep chomping down on dinner as it rained down on the front of his shirt. It's straightforward Mexican food for Americans done wrong. A ridiculous chalupa, a foregetable pork burrito and a cold cheese enchilada. Not as in it cooled in the window, but as in it was never heated to the point that the cheeses melted together. Ew. You can microwave it - I'm cool with that. I got the big boy combination with three items so I could take some to work for lunch. I'm an idiot, I did take it the next day. So I was sick to my stomach after dinner and after lunch. Again: I'm a dummy.
(2)Jacob N.
I got what they call a mucho on their menu. All I ended up with was a mucho stomach ache.
(1)Mike B.
Five for dinner....Tables only seat four. Sun going down....big windows....no shades....bad experience with the sun blazing in your eyes. Food: eh....the service was somewhat adequate, Daniel our server was very busy, and I had to go get my own utensils, because, as I said before...tables are only set for four.... Too noisy. Take your dollars somewhere else. In fact if you want the same food you were served here, most of it tasted as if it came out of a can.
(2)Anna K.
Chapalas is a Eugene staple, and rightly so. Anyone who knows good Mexican food knows that you can find it at Chapalas. The salsa is out of this world, the service is fantastic, and you couldn't ask for better tortillas. My personal favorite dish is "Arroz con pollo." I have traveled to Mexico many times and still rank Chapalas' Arroz Con Pollo as my Number 1. The fun atmosphere is just another great reason to go there, and the fun family vibes make it perfect for a birthday party or dinner party type of thing....I had my birthday lunch there last week and they sang to me! Do yourself a favor and go to Chapalas, you won't regret it!
(5)Jyoti N.
I had a couple chips and salsa while waiting for our take-out order. I walked home and got a violent stomach upset a few minutes later. I had not even touched the Chicken Tortilla soup I bought at this point. I'm not happy with whatever lack of hygiene that caused my illness. I rarely get sick
(1)Rat B.
It was good. I expected some really inauthentic tex-mex, and this was much better than that. The salsa was indeed quite good, the carne asada was delicious, the beans and rice acceptable but typical. Ask for a side of sour cream and they fill an ice cream dish! They were also very cordial even though we stuck around chatting up until close. Twice as good as that Jalisco place out west 11th anyway...
(3)Dwain C.
I ate lunch at "Chapala Mexican Restaurant" on 8/15/2012. It was my first time there. My friend Fred and his wife Donna (who live in Eugene) took me there. The food was very good but what amazed me was the portions. The portions were huge especially for the price.
(5)James C.
I really wanted some Mexican food besides the ubiquitous burrito places, so I took the kids to Chapala. The chips came nice and hot and were really good. The problems started with the guacamole I ordered. It had black patches in it like when your get an over-ripe or rotten avocado. It also had nothing in it. No salt, no lime, no onion that I could see or taste. I think there were some flecks of cilantro, but that was all I could see. The waitress acted like we were a bother most of the time. She really looked like she wanted to be somewhere else. This was my first time there, so when I was a little indecisive when I was ordering, I thought she was going to just walk off in disgust. Maybe she was having a bad day. She did bring the food and everything else in a timely manner, so no complaints there. I got the fajitas with chicken and vegetables. It was okay. The homemade corn tortillas are much better at Ranchito grill. These were just the regular store bought ones. The decor is pretty grimy. We had rips in our booth with tape that was peeling off. The wood trim on the window in our booth had a couple different colors slapped on. When I see decor that is totally neglected, I tend to wonder what the kitchen looks like. The salsa and chips were the best thing here on the night I went. I would imagine the rest of the menu is serviceable and filling. If you want food with a tad bit of inspiration or creativity behind it, I wouldn't bother with Chapala. If you want a heaping plate of bland carbs you will find it here. It is not cheap either, so you might as well stick to the Burrito Boys and save a few bucks.
(2)Carrie A.
Meh. Chapala's food is consistently bland, but not terrible, and the service is fine. The margaritas are good. I keep going back because the kids like it and because it's closer to our neighborhood than most other Eugene restaurants, but I'm always disappointed.
(2)Penny R.
Very disappointed today. Went to lunch with 91 year old mom and sister. I ordered chicken taquitos and I was served something that resembled a deep fried burrito cut into pieces. Definately not the taquito I am used to having at any other restaurant. I told my server and the host about my disappointment and nothing happened; no apology,no offer to exchange, nada. I suggested that when Someone orders taquitos they need to inform them that they are DIFFERENT and do not at all resemble any taquito you have ever eaten. Also any comments to the wait Staff will fall on deaf ears!
(2)Deb L.
Chips warm and salsa was tasty. Really good polla ala crema. Minimal attention from staff -1 star. Bathroom floor wet toilet leaks. However I would go back food was that good.
(4)Andrew R.
I am completely perplexed that this place is crowded night after night. We had their burritos a couple nights ago. Without exception everyone in my family felt crampy afterward. Yikes! Their ingredients lack flavor. I ordered a chili relleno burrito. It was soaked with water. I had to eat half of the burrito before I could decipher the chili's presence. Even then it was flavorless. I couldn't even taste it. And I truly don't understand adding carrots and broccoli to Mexican food. It's entirely possible I'm out of the loop on that one. It is unfortunate that such a mediocre food establishment occupies this prime location. This isn't the only example of this phenomenon.
(1)Guy K.
Excellent food. I usually have lunch at the 29th & Willamette location on Sundays, at least once every couple of months. The portions are bountiful, served hot, very appetizingly arrayed on the plate, and not overpriced. Staff is friendly and attentive, and they recognize me, as I have been coming regularly since their Grand Opening day in the late 1970s. It is a converted Sizzler Steak House, and the owners have loose affiliations with the Azteca/Casa Ramos chain in Washington (perhaps operated by in-laws of the owners of that chain...?) I recommend the combination plates and the nachos, and a large mug of Widmer's Hefeweizen beer, served with a lemon. I never hesitate to recommend this place.
(5)Mischa H.
Tacos utterly without taste and enchiladas ho hum. Just another Mexican chain without character. Give this a miss!
(1)Dan P.
Ugh, I so want to like this place. It's a short walk away, but sadly is by far the worst restaurant in the area. Their plates are way over-priced and the quality does not match. I can only wish that one day they see the light so we can get a good Mexican restaurant in the area.
(2)G A P.
Bland, boring, cheese smothered mexican food. The last time I ate here (granted, it was a while ago) one entree came still frozen and the other filled with rubbery, completely unflavored chicken meat. I haven't been back.
(1)Joshua B.
We really like Chapala - both locations. The service is usually very fast, the choices are plentiful (we are vegetarian), and we have three kids who always can find something. I cannot speak for meat dishes, but for kids' burritos, vegetable fajitas, and (my favorite) carnitas de tofu, it is a consistent sure bet. Portions are above average, so leftovers are possible too.
(4)Chad C.
I'm torn on Chapala. On the one hand, it's close, the margaritas are good and service has always been fantastic. On the other hand, I have yet to have a meal there I would consider to be 'good'. Not bad mind you, just that everything I've tried has been fairly bland. However, it doesn't offend and the kids love it, so I find myself going back on a fairly regular basis...
(3)Jen L.
I've been eating at Chapala for years...ever since college. My dad is from (extremely) southern California, so I grew up eating Mexican food - it's my favorite and I have it at least once a week (usually homemade). While Chapala is not the best Mexican food I've had in Oregon, it's close to my house and reliable. I typically get a small order of the Nachos Chapala, eat 1/3 or so and then take the rest home for leftovers. The servers are always really friendly and the service is fast. This location used to be much busier before they added the Oakway location (which is not nearly as good, in my opinion - however, it is centrally located). The chips are delicious and plentiful, and come unsalted so you can salt to your taste. It's not fancy or gourmet, but I like it!
(3)Angie C.
Seriously insulting that a Mexican restaurant would charge as much as Chapala's does for sub par food. Averaging $12 a plate for something that I could purchase in the freezer section at the grocer's for about $3. The Willamette Street restaurant is hideous inside. It's filthy and needs a serious facelift. The customer service, if you can call it that, leaves an even worse taste in my mouth than the food. I really wish that people would realize that there is WAY better Mexican food out there. Hell, put some Taco Bell on a fancy plate and you'd be just fine.
(2)