Acapulco’s Gold
2608 NW Vaughn St, Portland, OR, 97210
Acapulco’s Gold Menu
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Address :
2608 NW Vaughn St
Portland, OR, 97210 - Phone (503) 220-0283
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :11:00 am - 10
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Dinner
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : No
Categories
Mexican Cuisine
If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.
Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.
Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.
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Chris S.
Pretty darn good Mexican food that is obviously gringo-versions of Mexican cuisine, but well-executed. A nice stiff drink can be had, and when your serving staff isn't preoccupied, you can get both quickly and pretty inexpensively. I don't expect mi abuelita to walk out of the kitchen or anything, and so, with expectations firmly lowered, I can get a yummy, filling meal here. Note: This is a pleasant contrast to anything that the sister restaurant next door serves... owned by the same management, from what I understand, but miles different in quality. I haven't had their margaritas, so I can't comment. There are a few comments regarding the salsa here, and I agree it is... interesting. More like diced tomato and onion were thrown in a rough-chop blender with cilantro and a hot pepper or two. ORO (pro): Inexpensive, yummy & filling; good cocktails PAYASADA (con): Staff is at time inattentive, salsa is... unique.
(3)Heather M.
As a native-born Texan, I was BLOWN AWAY by this place. We have been searching this town for legit texmex for two years. Everything was done right. I felt like I could have been in a cheap little place in my home town as soon as we walked in. The margaritas were strong and beautiful. The nachos were outstanding. We had the special of the evening - brisket tacos -- filled with smoky delicious meat from the barbecue place next door (which they also own). This restaurant has made Portland complete for us. Nothing pretentious in sight -- truly tex-mex as we know and love it. THANK THE LAWD!!!
(5)Melissa P.
2 star food. 4 star margaritas. Negative stars for my friends subsequent food born pathogen. Postive starts for a friendly honest server. Negative stars for manteca rice Positive stars for cheapness. Drink it up here, don't eat.
(2)michele f.
If you like your margaritas to taste like candied raspberry syrup, this is the place for you. If you like your mexican food on the bland, americano side, lacking all flavor and ingenuity, this is the place for you. But, if you're like me and want a veggie burrito stuffed with slow cooked, flavorful beans and roasted vegetables beyond red and green peppers, go elsewhere. . I hate to say it but I've had better mexican food at the Taco del Mar in Happy Valley.... BF wasn't very happy with his chicken tacos either (meat was ok but not the rest of the taco ingredients) and HATED the margarita we were supposed to share (but after just one sip I was completely repulsed and couldn't stomach any more). He left his $5 margarita practically untouched when we left. Think snowcone flavoring. On the plus side, the service was excellent but that just can't make up for the mediocre food they offer at Acapulco's Gold.
(2)Tommy A.
Looking to head out for some great Mexican food tonight, we were sorely disappointed. I have to give it to them, the atmosphere isn't bad and the menu looked good, but I don't think we were acknowledged until 5 minutes after we sat down - one waitress even walked right by us, and it wasn't like they didn't see us walk in. Chips were brought out, they were stale and bland, and by the time we got tired of waiting for someone to bring menus, water hadn't even been brought to the table.
(1)Mardi C.
we came back a second time if that tells you anything. had a great conversation with our waitress / front of the house bartender. the bartender in the back room on the first visit didn't seem to interested in us. but the waitress was great and helpful. the tater tots are so much fun. our conversation led to grimm when I saw that in the window. LOVE this place and will make this a regular visit when I come back. thank you.
(4)Julie S.
Overall good food. We stopped here for a late lunch as a casual meeting before a photo shoot. Decided to sit in the bar so i could have mexican and my friend could have bbq. Both were great. Beef brisket sandwich was super tender and full of flavor. And my chicken chimichanga was very juicy with just a hint of heat. While we waited for our food we noshed on chips and salsa and sipped on our beers. Food came out hot and in decent time. Service was very friendly and easy going with a smile. Only complaint was that the rag the gal used to clean off the bar smelled a bit sour. Probably needed to be replaced along with the disinfectant solution.
(4)Kenny O.
Great -- um .. Bartenders are fun - friendly staff - comfortable environment, I'm not into Tequila yet this is the Spot to hit if you are ..!
(4)Christina J.
Terrible time here. Everything is from a can or bag, nothing tasted fresh or home cooked but yet it took a long time to bring the food to me and a friend. Olives on every damn thing.. From a can. Service was terrible. Server disappeared and waited over 20 minutes to pay my bill. Found her at the bar chatting with people. I told her that I wanted to pay my bill 20 minutes ago and she said it got busy at the bar. There's no organization or communication, and definitely no good food here. Maybe the drinks are better?
(1)kerry g.
this place is awesome! been a favorite of mine for years and years. the margueritas pack a whollop! and the food & service is always great.
(5)BoaBzOr B.
This is a pretty solid 3 star place, that I mostly only frequent because it's close to my job. It doesn't suck, but it's not real exciting either. Good Stuff: Free chips and salsa, and the salsa is actually pretty darn good Huuuuuge nachos. If you want the most food for your dollar, definitely go for the nachos. Strong, though not necessarily great, margaritas. Weak Sauce: In general, most of the rest of the food is pretty forgettable. And, in general, the margaritas are not my favorite. They are an alarmingly bright green color, and taste of something artificial as well. Still drinkable though. Summary: Probably not a great place for a fancy date, but if you're in the neighborhood and hungry for some Mexican food, it's pretty OK.
(3)Parker J.
Five Stars for the Chicken Nachos!!! The rest of the food 3.5. I have never had anything exceptional here except the chicken nachos. Get the medium. Large has too many chips not enough goodies. Small is not as good of a value as medium. Margs are strong. Service is average. Bathroom on restaurant side is unique.
(5)Aaron R.
Basic. Reasonable. What you expect from a nice, non-chain Mexican restaurant. The service was attentive but not over the top, the food was reasonably priced and pretty good. The place is VERY laid back. We were there well past closing and there wasn't even a peep from the waitress. Most places would have kicked our ass to the curb long before. She was awesome, though.
(4)Celeste M.
Fantastic Margaritas! And the service is the best around!
(5)Holy-foo' X.
Dining in La Cantina is the only way to go w/the Oro de Acapulco... This is probably the most nuanced, complicated 4 star review I've yet written. Very mixed feelings about the food, but the place scores big on value, ambiance and service. First, the incredibly Good: the halibut tacos. Magnificent. HEAPING w/toppings, too, incl. scallions, which I love. Also scoring highly: Chile rellenos, con Mole! Mole! The not so good: Super Nachos. This is a huge 21st century shock! My mom used to work in this neighborhood, so we would sometimes come here, and I remember LOVING their nachos as a kid. Of course, that was a bazillion years ago. Things change, and not always for the better. Has this place been under the same ownership/mgt. that entire time? Perhaps only the mustachioed, mysterious Guapo on the menu (with what looks like it could be a quesadilla in his mitt, or just as easily could be a blunt) knows for certain, and something tells me he will take many secrets to his grave with him, not unlike the legendary Juan Valdez and his trusty burro, or the salt and peppered lothario of the Dos XX TV ads, aka "the most interesting man en el mundo" see-- en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Th… ... Can it be considered coincidence that Acapulco Gold is one of the very few places in town to offer Dos XX on tap? Pienso que NO. Stay thirsty, my friends... The mucho feo: The Chips. I was rather surprised, in reading other reviews and the lovely Christina's reply stating that the chips were made fresh in house. I shared portions of two bowls brought out to us, and they both tasted quite stale. I thought they had to be Tostitos or somesuch brand from a long-opened and not properly sealed bag, but if la Duen~a says they're cooked in house, good enough for me. Lots of Yelp reviews complained about the salsa--- I didn't find the salsa all that bad. I like it much hotter, of course, but when you're running a business (let along a 3-in-one, like w/Acapulco-cum-Slabtown), you have to appeal to the lowest common denominator sometimes, and most people I realize have far more delicate mucus membranes than I. So then. Congrats on the longevity of prosperity for this place, and may Los Mariachis in the heavens continue singing their blessings and offering their protection. I suddenly feel the irrepressible urge to grow a manly beard (NOT of the wispy, girly-man hipster variety), paint it salt and pepper, and lead a decidedly more interesting life! Adelante, caminantes!
(4)Brian D.
Strike one! Went tonight for dinner, sat down, ordered....45 minutes later, no food....tons of chips and salsa and water refills....no food....no food....lots food going to other tables...no food for me and Bruce. Oops, waitress lost our order. Free chips and iced tea! I'll give the place another try but this is not a good way impress me.
(1)Keith B.
A poor microwaved excuse for Mexican food, even by Portland standards.
(1)cranky p.
Yikes. Dry dry dry flour tortilla tacos. To be fair, the chicken nachos were a solid "2*" but it's hard to imagine what process led to the unfortunate tacos. Service was very nice. I want to be encouraging, since it would be great to have some good Mexican-ish food in the neighborhood, but I think it just might be hopeless.
(1)Chris E.
Oh so mediocre! It's the epitome of bland, boring, Americanized Mexican food. The service was prompt, the sidewalk seating was pleasant and the prices were affordable, but the food was truly "meh." If you're looking for "taco bell' style of Mexican food, this will do just fine.
(2)Cody M.
The mints here are very good. The chicken taco...leaves plenty to be desired. The service is good though!
(1)Rachel J.
I came in here with a friend mid-afternoon looking for a much-overdue quick lunch. Free chips and salsa before the meal was a nice touch, but they were cold and kinda bland; honestly the worst chips I've tasted at a Mexican restaurant. Maybe I'm spoiled by other Mexican places? Food was mediocre, edible, bland, cheaply priced. Portion sizes were fairly large, filled my empty stomach, but that's about it.
(2)Camille B.
Swear this is true. I lived in Mexico for a year and the whole time I was there, I never encountered a decent nacho. Artificial squirt cheese pumped on chips with jalapenos was as good as it got. When I returned to Portland from Mexico, I woke up, ordered a taxi to Acapolco's Gold, and was the first customer of the day. I ordered the extra large nacho vegetarian style (added rice too) and I ate it as S L O W L Y as I could, savoring every flavor. This was exactly how I remembered it from the 1980's when the original owner was in possession. The guacamole ration goes unmatched by any other restaurant in town, and the salsa is excellent! I deem their nacho BEST IN THE WORLD!
(5)Amy S.
Happy to have a solid standby in the neighborhood. The food is always good, never amazing. The servers are usually a bit cranky, but they are quick so I'm fine with it. Good prices, two people can get in an out with drinks for $30 easy.
(4)Susie Y.
We ordered three different meals and all were not good. My teenager will eat pretty much anything and she couldn't choke it down. Margaritas not bad though. Service was great!
(1)Seth H.
This place is not good. Bottom line. I love Mexican food and don't consider myself very picky but geez, it's just bad. There's no flavor or anything special. The tortillas aren't good, the margaritas are horrible. No redeeming qualities about this place with the exception that the waitress/bartender gal is friendly. I've tried it twice because I live close but won't be back.
(1)Robert B.
It's funny: I've been going to Acapulco's Gold now for more than 30 years. I don't know if it's the fact that my palate has evolved considerably or that the food at Acapulco's has regressed considerably . . . methinks it's probably a combination of the two. For a couple of years in the mid-1980's, I came here regularly with my ex-wife. At the time you would often have to wait for a table, but they were nice enough to give (sell) you a beer while you waited. We'd usually drink a few beers and end up eating a heaping plate of nachos. After that I moved out of town and have lived around the country. Every few years I'd stop back in for sentimental reasons, and it seemed as though things went downhill slowly over the years. I've since moved back to Portland and my last two trips here were bad and then worse. The first stop was in January for dinner around 8 o'clock. My date decided she just wanted to have nachos, so we decided to get those and the house salad. The house salad was awful: made with cheap iceberg lettuce and crappy dressing. The nachos were large and tasted ok at first . . . . but flavor-wise the nachos didn't have much to say. The second trip was for a late lunch and the food this time was awful. We ordered guacamole to dip into with the tortilla chips and salsa. It really wasn't what you could call guacamole: it was more just a ground up avocado and it cost $5. I made the mistake of ordering the Tex-Mex plate and it was an enormous plate of the blandest food I have ever eaten. I'm a large man, and I could only eat about a third of it. I ended up taking it home, re-seasoning it, adding some decent salsa, and making burritos for the next couple of days from the leftovers. My date had a perfectly bland plate of enchiladas. On top of that the server wasn't pleasant and seemed to resent our request for more water and to refill the salsa bowl. I guess part of the problem is that I now expect Mexican food not to be Americanized and ultra bland. I've probably just outgrown Acapulco's Gold. While I can't fault the portion size (the reason it gets two stars), the food is incredibly bland and the service is less than stellar. I don't think I will ever return to this sentimental favorite.
(2)Matt W.
Love the food and the service was as amazing as ever! However, bring the Andes mints back! They are a nice touch that makes the customer remember their stay, especially at a Mexican restaurant. Other than that, we will be back!!!!
(5)Ken M.
I went to lunch here to try something different. I was not impressed. The food is like what a midwesterner would think mexican is... in the 1980s. White flour tortillas, iceburg lettuce, cheddar cheese, and ranch dressing. Blaaaaaaaand. Portions are large, but I'd rather have a little more quality in the food. Decor is kitschy diner with some "south of the border" mixed in. The lunch crowd is as white, old, and bland as the food. The staff were very friendly, but the place seems like one of the "before" scenes from a restaurant makeover show.
(2)Pascal F.
First time visit the other day. I really dug this place...total diner meets mexican eatery. Get the nachos, they're some of the better ones I've found for the price. And their margaritas were a hit too. Will def be back!
(4)Chris G.
There are three types of Acapulco's Gold customer. Check the following descriptions to decide which one you are and whether you should venture into this venerable restaurant: 1) You firmly believe that Portland stands for something special in the culinary world and that NW Portland is one of the city's rightful foodie kingdoms. Don't go into AG. Don't even look at the sign. You will never be able to forget what they are serving as Mexican cuisine in 21st century America. Cross back under the 405, go back to the Pearl, order a $20 margarita and wait until Willamette Week says it's OK to venture back into Slabtown. 2) You work in the neighborhood and are looking for a quick and reasonable meal at lunch and aren't hung up on the quality of the food. Obviously, you already know about this place. You are the reason it is still in business and if lunch is any indication, business is still pretty brisk. You know the waitresses and are willing to overlook their occasional scattiness because they are a cheery sort. That and their post work Margaritas have been rumored to be strong enough to flatten most mortals. 3) You have an morbid curiosity to find out what a Mexican restaurant was like during the Carter administration. Here you have a place that opened back when your main Mex options were Taco Bell, Old El Paso and Doritos and to serve pico de gallo would have gotten you coverage in the New York Times. Once a year, I fall squarely into this category. An earlier reviewer somewhat derisively described their bill of fare as "Midwestern Mexican". Bingo. I grew up in the Midwest in the 70's and 80's and AG is a time machine that for evolutionary reasons, I have an annual hankering for. It is exactly the restaurant I grew up with back then and watching the orders go by, it's pretty easy to imagine that the menu hasn't changed one bit since they opened in 1980. I'm a little bitter there is no "Who Shot J.R.?" poster on the wall, but that is a minor quibble. If you fall into this category, go but order with caution. Your 21st century digestion might not be able to handle a lot of this at once. If you are looking for a food rec, the pork isn't bad. Now go and don't say you weren't warned.
(3)Kelsie V.
Effing rocks! Divey bar, delish food. Menu can be a bit busy. Lots of choices. They also have a well lit-cafeteria style dining side. Last visit imbibed in a couple margos--boy they DID have some tequila in them. Great service. Food arrived fast. Jr. Burrito is going to be huge. Dos Equis Amber on draft-so crisp with Mexican fare. Large TVs, Poker machines, great hip vibe. I love this haunt. Love to also enjoy their sidewalk seating too in the summer. Sometimes they close unpredictably.
(4)Jon H.
We thought this place was a good find the first couple times we stopped in. The margaritas are good and strong and the food was pretty good. We had dinner tonight and the chicken was that sliced pre fab stuff you get from costco. Kind of a bummer
(3)Shane S.
Remember this place pre fire? I do. I also remember it after the fire when it was great and everyone rallied to come back and help rebuild. Those days are over. I have been here a couple of times in recent years and always chalk it up to just a bad day/timing. Today I call bunk. 2pm on a Monday. Lunch is over, place is empty. No one is crying in the corner about a lunch shift from hell. It's, "...it's just busy enough that I can't get anything done..." I'm assuming that includes service. Portland has NO good Mexican food, but this did Rick at one point. Today I can hardly choke down the terrible entrée of enchilada and chili releno. Oh, and don't ask for a margarita... Good luck getting it, much less two on that jour and a half journey ill never get back.
(2)Michele L.
I've been eating here since 1980. It has burned to the ground and risen from the ashes. Margaritas by the pitcher (do not ask for the brand of liquor, just drink!). And the best pile of cheesy jalapeño-layered nachos ever. It's not real Mexican food but I don't care. It is tasty and comfy and the grilled veggie tostada or torpedo jr. burrito always hit the spot. Check out the painting by the door, it is a self portrait of one of the original waitresses and survived the Christmas fire.
(5)Marcie D.
Tongue in cheek, my friend and I decided to have dinner here last night. For years I have visited Acapulco's Gold on occasion, and although the food was good, there were a few things that just seemed like dirty dining. Example: There would be salsa and chips already on the tables when you walk in.. I don't know about you but this just grossed me out considering there was no telling how long they had been there! Yuk! Last night was different. The salsa was promptly brought to our table, with fresh and crunchy chips. It was delicious and very fresh. Our very real and chill waitress was awesome, she was prompt at meeting our requests but didn't bother us every few minutes. I actually told her she was a great waitress when we left and she took the compliment with ease and appreciation. My friend and I shared a HUGE plate of nachos, which were also dee-lish, although the olives were not the greatest, but that was the only thing we didn't care for. The shredded chicken was fresh, the beef was amazing, as always, with distinct flavor and freshness. It came topped with a healthy portion of fresh gaucamole and jalepenos. We ended up buying another one to bring to my 16 year old for dinner too. They didnt cut any corners with this meal! The ambience of the restaurant is eclectic and divey, and very Portland-ish. There is a restaurant side and a bar side so it can be family friendly I suppose.They offer an easy going atmosphere and friendly service. I will definitely visit more often and try some of the other things on the menu! YUM
(4)Jim P.
Low prices and good portions. I enjoyed the peasant plate which is called a sampler. I called it rice and refried beans with grilled chicken mixed in and 2 flour tortillas. Well seasoned. I will be back here again.
(4)Nannette S.
The service here was great leading me to feel bad to write this review, but the food there was HORRIBLE! The food was sweet not spicy. Definitely not a good place to go if your hungry for Mexican food. I felt like I was at a friend's house who attempted to cook Mexican food. Also, price is high maybe for big portion size but definitely not due to quality and taste. I do not recommend.
(1)Donn C.
I've been going to this place for over 5 years and still love it. The staff has pretty much remained the same over that period and they're always friendly. Make no mistake this place serves cheap Texmex but it's some of the best. If you're looking for authentic Mexican, this is not the place. The house margaritas are just about the best I've had and pretty stiff. My only complaint is that I have to sleep with my windows wide open after eating there. It could be a quantity issue.
(4)Amanda K.
YAY! I love this place. Not necessarily because of the service, or the food, or the atmosphere. I love this place because it's a neighborhood joint. And the only way to break down my loves and whines about this place is in a Pro's and Con's fashion. Pros! -The mexican food is pretty good. I love the option for artichoke hearts as a filling. The enchiladas are good, if a bit heavy but you definitely get your money's worth. The pinto beans suck but the black beans are yummy. Something tastes weird about the shredded chicken. The peasant plate is great if you want simple mexi food but can't decide on a combo dinner. -You can order off the Slabtown BBQ menu on the bar side!! This was super good news for me, as I try to avoid establishments where young children can also be seated. I like to enjoy my margaritas without the sounds of screeching kids. The BBQ is honest and decent. Pulled pork sandwich comes on a toasted bun and is quite enjoyable. The macaroni could use more "real cheese" or less milk; it kind of tastes like white cheddar Kraft mac or something. Collard greens are tangy and laced with onions and meatables. The vinegar/mustard-based BBQ sauce option is the best! -Alisha, the bartender. She's fun, friendly, FAST, and leaves you alone when she can sense you want to sip your drink in peace. All the things I love and adore in a good bartender. Cons! -The service is kind of hit or miss. Aside from the previous mentioned gal, the other bartenders I've encountered have either been spacey and unattentive, or extremely loud and obnoxious and get this scared/startled/annoyed look on her face when I ask her for a drink, etc. Or forgets to give me chips and salsa. Or messes up my margarita order somehow. Or forgets to put my meal order in COMPLETELY. This is one girl in particular and to boot, she swears like a sailor. I thought MY language was bad when i'm serving, but she makes me look classy! -Sometimes they run out of the BBQ items during dinner, but this is to be expected of BBQ joints. Once they sell their offerings of the day, that's it! It's easier to get the full menu on early weeknights. Overall, I really like this place. I just have those rare bad nights of service here, and they're easy to overlook when there's so much to like about this place.
(4)Amanda I.
The burritos and nachos are delicious, but the margaritas are AMAZING! I only gave it four stars because the service was a little slow.
(4)Hunter H.
My favorite mexican place in Portland. I have been going since the early 90's. Same great taste and prices. The nachos remain a testament to PURE AWESOME AND CHEESE OVERLOAD!! Great enchiladas too. Spanish rice and beans are worh the trip alone as are the chips and salsa and that says a lot.
(5)Jack D.
When you arrive at this restaurant, the chips and salsa are on every table in the place. Who knows for how long before customers start eating them: an hour, two hours, all day? Our chips were stale and I had to ask for another basket of fresh chips. The salsa is okay - even if a little bland. Twenty five minutes after eating the Juarez burrito I got the squirts bad. I ordered my burrito "light" on the black beans and got a lot of black beans. This is because, they pre-prep their food and use a steam warmer to keep the pre-made dishes warm. My gals dish was cold and the taco sauce tasted like watered down tomato soup. They had a kids menu and the kids liked their meals but they are kids (aged 10 + 5) and kids meals. The service was respectable and the waitress was great. I will not go here again. And would not recommend this place to anyone....
(1)Ana B.
Let me begin by breaking the myth around the Margaritas that are served here. I specifically picked this place off yelp due to all the Marg hype, but I was left with something to be desired. I ordered a pitcher because it's the most bang for you buck. Not so much in this case. You get about 4 margaritas and pay about a dollar less then you would have had you just ordered them normally. They weren't anything special..or strong. You normally get an extra margarita or two out of the pitcher I was a little bummer, but on to the food ! I ordered the enchilada plate. Here they give you a whole list of fillings and you choose which one you want in what you orders, I love choices. I settled on one artichoke and one spicy beef ( the waitress said that was the best one ). They had the option of soyrizo for an extra dollar and other veggie options which I thought was nice. My food was great! I had never had artichoke enchiladas, but I plan to much more in the future. Normally after eating a enchilada combo I feel like a fat ass but the artichoke was refreshing. A glutton at heart, I ordered a slice of margarita cheese cake. I was 100% stuffed but I'd never heard of that before and as a margarita enthusiast I couldn't in good faith pass it up... In retrospect I could have because it wasn not so much margarita as it was just plain lime. Good, but not what I was hoping for. Solid Mexican food. I ate here a week ago and completely forgot I had, it just didn't leave an impression on me whatsoever. I'd go back, but only for the artichoke option.
(3)Katie D.
Attention Portlanders: Do NOT ever ever EVER eat at Alcapulco's Gold. It's the dirtiest, nastiest restaurant I've ever been to. Aside from my beef taco potentially having antennas, everything was microwaved out of a can. We went there because someone told us they had a good happy hour. I walked in and was like "omg I wonder If dirty dining has been here." The floorboards were filthy! They kept chips and salsa out on every table waiting for people to come sit down... Chips uncovered and salsa not covered or refrigerated. Although nice, but completely unprofessional...even our waitress was dirty!! She looked like she was in the back pulling weeds in between waiting tables. I don't know how they are still in business. I didn't order a drink but they must make strong ones. That's the only thing I can think of to keep people coming back. This should be their motto: "Gettin' em' drunk so they don't notice the dirt!"
(1)Earl D.
Awesome chimi
(5)Joshua A.
I have only been here a few times and only on my lunch break or after work waiting for the bus while having a beer. I have not been to the restaurant proper, I only go into the bar located in between the Mexican and barbecue restaurants. The bar has a very blue collar feel to it after closing time and the service is a bit on the overly familiar side for my taste. I don't want to joke around and enjoy the company of the bartender(s) at a place I only frequent for lack of local competition. The area is very sparsely served with really good options for lunch, but the prices are typically pretty darn good. I don't know how someone couldn't like the salsa here. I love it. It's good AND free? Okay! The chips are really good by themselves as well, perfectly sized and they seem to be made on site so that is another plus. The food is nothing special. Good enough to wolf down and head back to the grind. I wouldn't go out of my way to come here though. Mediocre food and limited draft beer selection makes me sad, but low prices compensate pretty well.
(3)Venerable V.
"I took a trip down to L'America. To trade some beads for a pint of gold." That lyric crossed my mind when I went here with a friend - the owners knew what they were doing when they named this...er...joint. It's a no-frills, neighborhood Tex-Mex staple for her and we just wanted to chill, eat, drink some beer and hang out - which is exactly what we did. The kitchen was actually shutting down when we ordered but the server took it upon herself to make us a gigantic quesadilla. Coupled with some Dos Equis and it's really all I could have asked for. I wasn't looking to be blown away by anything - this is simply a neighborhood bar that's got a Mexican thing going on. I can appreciate that. It was a slow night which is why our nice server was able to accommodate us so. I'd totally come back.
(3)Cora P.
I'm a fan of their tamales...not a fan of their salsa and there's something weird about the cheese they use- it puts a film on your teeth that can only be removed by margarita, which isn't always an option. In fact, I think most of their food is designed to make you want a margarita. That's probably a solid business plan. It's a decent lunch spot if you're in the area, and a great happy hour spot all the time.
(3)Patricia W.
I remember one night during an ice storm in Portland my sister and I decided to go to dinner. We love a good margarita so we decided to try Acupulco's Gold. We got chips and stuff and ordered dinner ALONG with a pitcher of margaritas....a small pitcher at that. We got our meals and were done with the one pitcher and looked at eachother and said "boy that wasn't very strong, lets get another one"....so we did. Halfway through the second one we realized what a huge mistake that was...it was a creeper. We ended up walking around NW 23rd and having coffe at Coffee People (yes it's been a while for those familiar with the area) to walk off our drunk. The food was good but the margaritas were better, just don't order more than one pitcher or you'll be in trouble.
(4)Suzanne G.
I love this place! When I lived in the neighborhood I used to visit it about 3x week. The food is always great and you can't beat the prices! Did I mention they have GREAT margaritas!
(5)david s.
Ate here twice. First time was for the BBQ, and it was pretty darned good! Second time I had shrimp in a tequila tomato sauce. It tasted like their salsa and nothing more. Excellent tequila selection and friendly bar staff. Tasty hand muddled margaritas.
(3)Grace M.
I live in the NW neighborhood and am starting to frequent Acapulco's Gold. I was initially hesitant due to some of the previous Yelp reviews I have read, however I did not experience any of the dissatisfaction that some reviewers had. I don't just love this place because it is convenient! The margaritas here are great, they are strong, tasty and affordable and you can get them by the pitcher which I don't see at many other restaurants. There has been numerous complaints about the food on here but I completely disagree. I have tried multiple menu items, as has my boyfriend, and we have been pleased each time. The servings here are HUGE and it is such a great deal for the price. I'm not even a vegetarian but I love the option of artichoke hearts as the meaty filling and chose that with my tacos and am now obsessed! The nachos are great and a super good option for sharing with friends. The whole issue with the chips and salsa is nonexistant, fresh salsa is always delivered promptly to my table when I get there, plus its complimentary! I hope this place starts receiving more good yelp reviews and people begin to realize that it is a great neighborhood restaurant and a fun late-night spot.
(4)Garrett G.
This unassuming place focuses on good food and good service. Begin your evening with what are arguably the most potent and tasty margaritas in Portland. In fact, I just got back from Texas, and I was pining for a Acapulco Gold margarita. The chicken mole enchiladas are wonderful and the verde burritos are excellent! The atmosphere is very relaxed with subdued lighting and a quirky "sun" room.
(5)Emily B.
Probably some of the worst food I've ever had. I walked into would could have been any Mexican joint. I really had no reason to be too skeptical. I mean, I felt safe enough to order fish tacos. I was served up some hot-lunch style "Mexican" food: cold ,white-flour tortilla with heaping mound of cafeteria-style salad (iceberg lettuce, tasteless tomatoes, bought-in-bulk shredded cheese) , and then they plunked down two microwavable fish sticks on top! I was horrified. The dining partner didn't say much. Perhaps he was embarrassed (this was his pick, not mine). His food looked pretty unimpressive too. I think these folks buy their ingredients at Cost-co and charge you a warm-up fee. Yuck.
(1)Alex P.
The margarita's may not taste the best (though not bad), but they are pretty strong for a restaurant. The food was the best Mexican I've had since being in Portland, but that's only about 3 months. Real guacamole is a plus and they have super big portions for cheap. Not exactly a fancy/dressy place, but good times, think dive bar with more seating and good food.
(3)Edward J.
This is one of the best place for cheap eat with a group of friends. Really tasty and spicy Mexican food. There are tons of vegetarian options to choose from the menu. It is a popular spot for lunch and dinner during the weekday. The weekends are a bit less busy. There is also endless chips and salsa. Their margaritas are really good and strong, well priced. I love their vegetarian peasant taxmax. I share it with my boyfriend all the time. let me remind you, most of their food is quite greasy and cheesy and spicy. So expect your stomach to handle the weight.
(4)chile o.
Wanted to take my girl to Salbtown BBQ, but realized they are closed on the weekend. She suggested going next door to Acapulco's. She had been there before and said it was good, so we went. Having chips and tasty homemade salsa at the table before you sit down could almost get this place five stars. Almost. I had heard rumor about margaritas, but I was grabbing a quick bite, and had things to do , so I wasn't hitting the sauce. For another time. The menu is fairly straghtforward, the stand out being all of the meat/veggie/wannabe meat eater options. I am a combo guy, so I ordered the smoked chicken burrito/relleno combo. My girl ordered the relleno with verde pork. The plates were attractive and full. The wait wasn't long. That being said, I would probably avoid the smoked chicken or maybe the combo burrito altogether. The rice and beans were dry as wall paper paste, which I don't even consider a bad thing anymore, as almost every Mexican/Tex Mex joint that serves rice and beans taste pretty much the same. Anyway, the combo had a heaping pile of both. The burrito also had more of both.Along with the chicken. It was smoked very well, the question is, when? Extremely dry burrito, even with sour cream. Won't do that again. The rellenos were very good. Large and fresh. Lightly battered. Tasty. My girl's was smothered in large chunks of pork, and she said it was great. I would have to say that this is a very straightforward Tex Mex joint. If I lived in the 'hood, I would probably stop in for drinks and chips quite often, as they have a pretty good list of Tequilas and the salsa is quite good. Otherwise, I'll stick to the taco cart. If you want what the owner does best, go to Slabtown BBQ next door. See my review for info.
(3)Erin E.
Well I haven't had their margaritas, but I have had their food, which explains the solid 2 star rating. If you're looking for authentic Mexican food (or good food), this is not the place. How they can screw up a simple Quesadilla is beyond me, and the dishes that are more edible are still not that great. Their salsa is different, but pretty good. Bathroom is disgusting, and the whole restaurant deserves a good scrubbing. Service is almost always good & friendly.
(2)Dave H.
I like the margaritas (for the price), they have a great staff, and the food is an interesting (but not authentic) take on Mexican food. They have a lot of vegetarian options, including the Peasant Platter that's pretty tasty and will definitely fill up most people. The free chips and salsa almost got them another star as well. I know they give it away to get me to drink more, but I'm okay with that. There's enough flavor in the salsa to get me to have another drink usually.
(4)bridget n.
i haven't been here for quite a while and am reviewing only on their platters of nachos. when i had more free time on my hands, i made it almost a weekly ritual to have nachos here at least once a week. the plates are HUGE-the size of texas and come piled HIGHHHH with everything!!! they are certainly not stingy on their toppings. (YEA!) their house made chips and salsa which they bring out upon your arrival are really really good too! i have to stop myself from eating too much of it and save room for my nachos. ohhh and the strawberry daiquri is as good as it gets. the ambiance is quite unique and makes me feel like i'm actually in Mexico.
(4)M. J.
This is our FAVORITE mexican restaurant in Portland! The abiance and decor is NOTHING to write home about, but the food is consistantly great (especially the nachos!) and they have the best margaritas by the pitcher we've come across. My husband & I split an appitizer, small order of nachos and margaritas; and the tab is only $21..and we're stuffed! The staff is all pretty goth or pdx hipster, but all very friendly. We love this place:)
(5)Amanda W.
Best margaritas in town- hands down.
(4)Angela B.
Acapulco's is known for its margaritas and it lives up to all the rumors I have heard. I would love to write a detailed review about the food, the vibe, and all the fun we had, but my memory stops at margarita number one. Oh yes, there was margarita number 2 and 3 and perhaps there was number 4, but my memory stops at margarita number 1 so I will never really know how many of those tasty drinks made it to my belly.
(4)Rob K.
I can't even remember why we went here - I think it was a work happy hour, but I got pretty drunk off the Margaritas. Plus, I could walk home. Good enough for me.
(4)Kimberly B.
man, i hate giving 'bad' reviews. the food here is super good. a great blend of tex mex. super yummy nachos. BUT, my husband and i have both gotten sick here. twice. the first time we just figured it was bad luck. but the second time was pretty icky. it's good goin' in...and super bad comin' back out (or up). there are just too many amazing Mexican restaurants in town to risk it again...too bad :(
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