El Chihuahua Restaurant
3926 Highland Dr, Salt Lake City, UT, 84124
El Chihuahua Restaurant Menu
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Visit below restaurant in Salt Lake City for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Salt Lake City for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Salt Lake City for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
3926 Highland Dr
Salt Lake City, UT, 84124 - Phone (801) 272-8091
- Website https://www.elchihuahuarestaurant.com
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :11:00 am - 9:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Dinner
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : Free
Has TV : Yes
Dogs Allowed : 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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Jordan P.
First and foremost; ORDER THE DEATH STAR'S to drink if you like alcoholic beverages! They come in a variety of flavors that are all yummy. They are pretty strong (for Utah). Limit for the Death Star's are 2 per person. If you're in a drinking mood there is a drink even larger than a Death Star - so large it comes with a full sized rubber ducky in it! This place has my favorite mole poblano in all of Utah. I really can't comment on any of the other entrées because all I order is the mole when I have a craving for it. The portion of mole is HUGE and comes with rice, refried beans and tortillas. I have yet to finish the whole plate of food. Their chips and salsa are pretty good.
(4)erick g.
The food was not great at all... My friend (Who is allergic to onions... Ordered a Mole... It didn't taste like mole.... Try Red Iguana for good Mole.... My Mole was not good. If you had the real thing you will know. So we asked for fajitas. We asked for no Onions twice. When the food came for the second time, it had onions... Sorry but he can't eat them. They have onions, then I said. He told u no onions. I'm so sorry then the waitress became a bitch and told my friend he MUST eat. Even though he ate some of my chile verde cause it was really hot, but good. We told her he ate some of it. And yet she was demanding and prissy... She told my best friend he Must eat. We ate chips and salsa. We ate them. Then she told my friend... he eat some of my food. Then she told my friend. I hope you don't die... That has onions. Uncalled for!!
(1)Nicole F.
Fantastic salsa: check. Great enchiladas, burritos, and soup: check. Death Stars: ON POINT
(4)Zuhadi Z.
Everybody knows this place is all about the Deathstars, but don't completely disregard the food because they are pretty good too. Ok I probably won't choose the food here as my last meal on earth but I do like their tacos. The Hot Grandma's Grilled Tacos made me want to meet the Grandma, not because she's hot but because her recipe is good. I like the Quesadillas Platter too. The cheese doesn't overpower like in some other places. The shrimps are big and tasty. My only complain is they religiously kept refilling the free chips and salsa while we waited for our food, so by the time the food finally came, we were already half full. In short, come here for the Deathstars and the food will not disappoint.
(4)Brittney N.
This place is a mixed bag of Awesome and Meh. Let's start with the awesome. Their salsa is pretty dang awesome. Very fresh, chunky, reminiscent of a Bloody Mary. The chips are pretty awesome, but according to the menu, you get charged $1 after the first basket... Meh. Thirsty Thursday has $5 Death Star that can't be beat.. Which is pretty awesome... Limit 2 per person and you need to order food. So now the Meh The prices. The average price per plate is around $15 to $18... Which is for the basic stuff... We're talking cheese enchilada basic. According to the menu, the price is justified by the huge portions. But.... The portions were... Meh. We purposely ordered a burrito the the menu claimed was a lot of food. The burrito itself was a decent size, but I would classify the portion of rice and beans that came with it as scant at best. For sure I wouldn't consider their portions large or larger than any other Mexican place that is charging less. I suppose it is possible that they justify the costume because of the quality of ingredients... But from my perspective, I couldn't tell much of a difference quality wise... Other than the salsa. Ultimately, we would go for the salsa and the cheap drinks, but then we would have to order food... So budget wise it would end up costing about as much as going somewhere else and paying a little more for drives and a little less for food.
(3)Taren R.
I was unsure about coming to a new restaurant, as mexican food, isn't my favorite. However, el chihuahua did not disappoint. You're greeted at your table with chips and fresh salsa. Great flavor, but you get charged extra if you need a new basket of chips Lots of people come for the drinks (Death Stars- oversized cocktails sure to satisfy) The food was very quick to come out of the kitchen and had great flavor. Only deductions are for their restrictions to drinking(must order 13-15 dollars to drink multiple drinks)
(4)Whitni W.
I had a strange occurrence here where I was trying to order a death star with my meal and was informed that my meal didn't COST ENOUGH for me to order one. I had to change my meal to a heftier priced meal just to get one, and was told it was state law. I know we have some strange liquor laws, but that is a new one to me. I have been to multiple places where I could get a drink with just an order of chips or fries. Still love the drinks, but hate that I can't go here without spending at least 30 bucks for mediocre food.
(3)Frank M.
I'm pretty sure this place exists simply because of the death stars. These are enormous drinks, with tons of alcohol, and tons of sugar. People love them I guess. You're only allowed to have one, otherwise the owners are afraid they may have to call the coroner. The food is decent. Nothing that really blew my mind away. It's a pretty popular place though. It seems like it's always packed, especially with A Bar Named Sue's right next door. If you're down with enormous drinks and average Mexican food(think the sort of Mexican you ate at 2 AM in college), then I think El Chihuahua is fine for you.
(4)Malanie L.
Come here for a Thirsty Thursday night! Death Stars are only $5 (normally $10) and Duckie Death Stars are $10 (Normally $13). I believe the Duckie Death Stars are margarita inspired since it comes with a limey flavor and salt, and there are only a handful of flavors while the regular Death Stars have an on-going list. They have a limit of 1 Duckie or 2 regular Death Stars, so I'm guessing the Duckie is much stronger! My friend got the raspberry flavor with added mango squirts and they had no problem doing so. Plus, you get to take the duck home.. that's awesome :) haha. I went with the strawberry peach regular Death Star and it was delicious! Could definitely taste the alcohol but it didn't ruin the flavor. I went with the Quesadilla Platter for my entrée. Comes with three different types of quesadillas including chile verde, chicken, and shrimp. Also comes with a side of rice and beans. Pretty good but I'm sure I would like to try something else next time. Complimentary chips and salsa are always a plus! Come as early as you can Thursday because it gets super busy, probably because of the amazing deal! The parking lot actually gets full and guests need to resort to parking across the street.
(4)Robert G.
I ordered a two burrito combination dinner for $14. More than $10 for a plate with 2 burritos, rice and beans is ridiculous in my book but if its good food then why not. Unfortunately good food it is not. The 2 burritos were cold and tasteless store bought flour tortillas rolled once with ONLY ground beef on the inside. The ground beef tasted like cheap beef over fried with those Taco Bell packets you buy at the grocery store. Nothing else on or inside the burritos which I thought was terribly lame. The rice and beans were dry and tasteless as well. Overall a very terrible meal especially for $14! I am not a good cook but my Mexican rice and store bought raw flour tortillas taste alot better than this food. Expensive, boring, and cheap quality food.
(1)Tania S.
Oh Highland, how you give and give and hardly ever take. Practically a handful of delicious places are within a mile-wide radius of El Chihuahua and I admittedly sneered at this place because of it's tacky signage and packed parking lot. So on a Friday after the gym (checks and balances, folks), I made it there. Immediately, I was greeted at the front and seated right away. There were chips and salsa to start. A look at the menu and no main entrée is under ten bucks. I can deal... it's Friday, right? Beer though, BEEEEEEER... That's a different story, as it's super cheap and a hint of it screams "'MERICA!" I had a nice chuckle at this immense selection of food and the modest liquor choices. I ordered the Shredded Beef Chimichanga. It was good! A little subtle, but just enough flavor to not scare away the Utahns. Service? Awesome. Chelsea, my server made sure the drinks and food came out fast, made sure I was comfortable where I sat (since I was awkwardly positioned in front of an MLB game). Stellar server, nice experience.
(4)Jacob H.
Let's start with the food. It was tasteless. My wife and I got the chili verde and chilis rellenos. Bad choice. Both were super bland. I guess after knocking back a few it would taste decent... The service was bad too. We ran out of chips and salsa so the waitress brought us chips without salsa. When we asked for salsa she sighed and brought more. Horrid experience, but the food was the real killer.
(1)Drew R.
I heard so much about this place from a friend of mine so I decided to try it for the very first time. They have quite a huge parking lot so it was a breeze for me to park ESP on Sunday. While pulling into the parking lot it was a bit full so that is always a good sign for me. The wait for a seat wasn't that bad too. The place was quite big so they can fit a lot of people. The environment felt really good. They offer unlimited chips and salsa, so that is always a plus for me. I had their chihuahua taco. The reason why I gave it three stars was that our waiter would disappear for a while and could not be found anywhere at times. We hardly got water refills and the food took forever to come out. Once the food came out though it was a huge portion. It was worth the $15 definitely. I would definitely give this place another chance and maybe I might update my review. I want to go back and try their Death Star drink.
(3)E.M. B.
Beware of the new Duckie Death Star! You'll wake up not remembering how you got home (but knowing you didn't drive), with 27 Dresses playing in your DVD player! Always a fun time at El Chi!
(3)Kasey B.
SO YUMMY! Love it so much! Drinks are amazing - Oversized and loaded with alcohol; strange for Utah. While I do enjoy the food, I typically get something small like their guacamole or quesadilla, it's really the drinks that steal the show and make this the place to be :)
(5)Zak D.
Very mediocre. I live nearby, so I've stopped in a couple times while getting my car worked on across the street. I was just a party of one both times, but it seemed they wanted nothing to do with me when I came in. Once was during a Utes football game and they acted like I was evil and immoral for wanting to watch a different game (Utes were getting destroyed anyway) on a TV that no one was watching. Every time they came back to check on me they commented on how odd I was for not wanting to watch a team I am indifferent to get smoked by 40 points or something. The other time I went in there was no one else there and they just stared at me with cell phones in hand and mouths hanging open for ~10 seconds before I just walked in and sat at a table. 3 minutes later someone showed up and was nice and attentive the remainder of the visit. Service overall seemed decent once they talked to you. Food was very basic and mostly tasteless. Had the chimichanga and it was OK, had an enchilada and it was bad. If it wasn't so overpriced, I wouldn't have choked the whole thing down. I just had to make the most of my investment. I did have a Death Star upon finding out they needed to keep my car an extra day, and it was as advertised. I'm 250+ lbs and I felt it after one glass.
(2)Lindsay S.
We went to El Chihuahua for the first time on Cinco de Mayo, and they were super busy, as expected. My fiancé and I are always on the hunt for the best beef enchiladas in town, and these were the worst enchiladas we have ever tasted. The sauce smelled and tasted EXACTLY like cinnamon!! Maybe they had to whip up a quick batch because they ran out of sauce, but I don't think anyone tasted the sauce before letting it leave the kitchen. It honestly would have been better to just recommend that the customers order something else. It was so odd and gross.. I gave them 3 stars instead of 1 or 2 because the Chili Verde and tacos were good, the beer was cold, and I wanted to give them the benefit of the doubt on the sauce and assume it wasn't the typical flavor. Unfortunately, although we live nearby, we will probably not be going back to El Chihuahua.
(3)Matt S.
There's not too many places that you can get both chili Colorado and chili verde and be astounded at how amazing they both are. Bring your extra stomach or hollow leg, or just share like I do. The portions are huge which justify the price. And don't forget the Death Star drinks. These aren't just your ordinary margaritas ha ha ha ha. Ha.
(4)Lauren B.
Everyone comes for the drinks. You see the pictures of the margaritas - it's the only place in Utah (in my opinion) that actually gives a decent pour. Wasn't too impressed with the meal, but honestly didn't hold my expectations too high. I was turned off by the salsa- it had chunks of celery that threw off the traditional taste of salsa for me. I'm a big fan of trying different ingredients to be unique and stand out, but that combo does not have my vote. However, the service is great! They sang my friend and I happy birthday so I have to give them kudos for that! Great for groups, enjoy a decent meal and indulge in a large variety of margaritas!
(3)Julie F.
Grandma's taco's are still my favorite. (that and the Low Rider Margarita!) Wednesday night, $5/low rider special. My husband and I went last night. It was packed! I have never been there on a weeknight when it is so busy. Our server was new, but he was very nice and attentive. The best part of the evening was Anji. I believe she is the front of the house manager.. She is happy, helpful and full of energy. Thank you for the great experience!
(4)Lee B.
Two words you will not remember in the morning "Death Star!" This place is a great restaurant that serves the strongest Margaritas named "Death Stars" you could ask for in Utah. I personally love the Blue; a refreshing take on a piña colada that makes you feel as if you are in the tropic. The food is pretty decent too, at least you will think so after a Death Star. The enchiladas are probably the best menu item I have had. The only down fall is service is hit or miss, but not bad enough not to come back. If nothing else, stop in and get a Death Star, but make sure to have Uber app open.
(4)Hillary S.
My favorite restaurant in SLC hands down. I have been coming here since I was 5 and the food is always fresh, and the service amazing! Great family owned, neighborhood spot and if you are looking for a yummy drink at a great price this place has it! I bring all my friends, co-workers and family from out of twin here and probably eat here at least once a month! Some of my favorite items: Cheese enchiladas Grilled shrimp or spicy pork tacos (grandmas way) Fish tacos Chili Colorado Bean dip Nachos Tortilla soup Low rider Duckie Death Star Go here now!
(5)Sara M.
My hubby and I frequent here for lunch as they have great lunch specials. We typically order the bean and cheese burrito enchilada style. I absolutely love their mole sauce! Their endless complimentary chips and salsa never disappoint. I have also ordered the chicken taco salad which is more than enough food for one person. We have had great service at this place even when they were crazy busy.
(4)Tracy R.
I don't knows what's more authentic... Celery flavored salsa, 70's and 80's music(in a Mexican joint), or the potholders the servers stuff between their apron strings and shirts.
(2)Doug C.
Thursday ducky Death Stars are $10, normally $13. One did me in. And my friend had to help me. Haha. So the service is terrible, food it seems I'm not missing out on much. Stupid Utah law makes it so that you have to order food if you drink. Our waitress said we could do a la carte, but corn tortillas (the cheapest thing on the menu at $1.50) doesn't count. What's up with that? It's also stupid that like chips and salsa for the table doesn't count. Our waitress was clearly run down, very frustrated and not happy. White girl, short brunette hair, glasses. She gave my friend a lot of attitude about ordering a second death star. I understand she's looking out for her (or is required to ask) but you can do it nicely. You'd think that someone who works for tips would try harder to be nice. Even fake nice. She also gave me a lot of attitude while ordering. I went with a stupid side of rice for $4! I can get a taco stand burrito for $3! The normal death stars hover around $8 or $9, not sure how much cheaper they are on Thursdays. I definitely will go with a regular one next time. I tried my friend's regular one, and you can definitely taste the alcohol. The ducky death stars are good/dangerous because they mask the alcohol better but there's more of it. They also use everclear, which makes sense as to why they get you so messed up so fast haha. Don't come for the food or service, come for the death stars. I also noticed the owner keeps commenting on every post, acknowledging complaints and saying thanks or sorry does no good. Changing how you're running your restaurant as far as servers and food, on the other hand, is proactive, and probably lucrative.
(3)Lauren B.
Only reason we come here are for the drinks on Thursdays! (maybe tuesdays too?) Foods okay definitely wouldn't choose this place for food but try the drinks deathstars and duckie ones! Service isnt the best or the worst. Chips and salsa are really good!!!!!!! Keep coming back when i wanna eat sloppy food and get a good buzz.
(3)Brett K.
Terrible Mexican food. Watery meat, bland cheese (and way too much of it), tortillas straight from your least favorite grocery store. Not to mention, it's ludicrously overpriced. It's literally just one step above going to Taco Bell.
(1)Kathy L.
This place blows!!!! We went with another couple and were really disappointed. The service was awful, the waitress was slow and not very friendly. The food was really bad :(. We ordered two enchiladas and nachos. Yuck is an understatement! Taco Bell would of been much better.
(1)Travis K.
This place is amazing. Everything I ate and the salon team ate was delicious. The Duckies are good but will definitely sneak up on you. I would recommend this place for anyone. Date night, friend night, really any night.
(5)Holly W.
The chili verde is second to none as long as Vic makes it. I have only had a minor complaint about it once because it was a little tough. I have had chili verde at Red Iguana (which is supposed to be the bomb) but I like El Chihuahua's much better. More tender and flavorful. The Spicy pork tacos can't be beat. If you just come and order the cheese enchilada, you are missing out. Go big or go home. Death Stars are a favorite but the Low Rider margarita is fantastic. If you want basic tex-mex.......go somewhere else. If it isn't hot enough for you, ask for more heat. They were told in the past it was too hot. It was dumbed down to please YOU!
(5)Charles P.
It's weird, I passed this restaurant at least once a week and it took me however it took me 19 years and 10 months of passing it (or when it opened if fewer than 19 years) before I stopped. What's weird is that I stopped. I am a lifelong atheist but I am a firm believer in signs and if you don't stop at a place for 19+ years, THAT'S A SIGN TO NEVER GO! My wife and I LOVE Mexican, possibly our favorite "type" of food, and it is VERY difficult to disappoint either of us. This place disappointed both of us on everything but our main server's attitude and wilingness to share the dirt). Apparently if you get there before about 2 PM on Saturday's, they just assume you are there to drink. In fact, the our server was a waitress who just came in on that day as a favor to someone and normally doesn't work there as she can't stand it. Mostly people come here for the drinks, she said with a sort of wink when I asked her favorite item. Eeek, So I pressed, we decided on some things, ordered and WAITED FOREVER to get it as "the kitchen wasn't ready for any orders - we don't usually get any for another two hours because... if you get there before about 2 PM on Saturday's, they just assume you are there to drink!" She was hilaroius and explained how things worked there. As it seems to be a place most people to to get competely drunk on their Party Bowl, rumored to be a highest alcohol drink in Utah. Interesting, with a police station about 300 meters away. So we waited and waited and finally got our food and it was HORRIBLE! Utah restaurants can make some bland Mexican food, and most do, but at least it's good quality meat. My wife's was so-so, she said she didn't ever need to get it again, but my pork was stunningly grotesque with huge fatty balls I was unable to eat. I've NEVER had much fat at all on my Mexican pork items and when I do, it's usually cooked so tender as not to be a problem. This? Yuk. But worse, when I went to complain the hostess was hostile and did not believe me. So I am one of the few to say "the service was 5 star" but the rest of it was awful. Please consider this only for a place to get blasted on cheap booze - and I bet your designated driver isn't very welcome but bring one anyway with Johnny Law walking distance.
(1)Teresa N.
Who puts celery in salsa? Food is way over priced for the quality. Drinks are awesome. Go for the duckie Death Star, worth it.
(1)Rachael H.
After reading the mixed reviews and hearing from friends who have been here, I decided to try it for myself. First off, service was good, but that really depends on who you get. Second, the famous Deathstar, I now understand why it's famous. It's a drink with plenty of cheap alcohol in it, so it's a good way to get a buzz. And then there's the food. I can honestly say that you should not come here for the food. My boyfriend asked that his food be made really spicy, and the server asked how he wanted it made spicy, chopped jalapeños, etc. it came out and it was covered in red pepper flakes that must have been so old that they didn't even give any heat. If you know Mexican food, you do not spice it with red pepper flakes, period. Would I go back? Maybe not.
(1)Vida A.
This place is always packed at night. Lunch time is better and great specials. They are known for this drink called death star which to me is guaranteed headache in a glass. Way too much cheap alcohol mixed with sugar. Food is not great, average. Chips and salsa are good tho. Service is hit and miss. The popularity here are the alcoholic drinks but the popo are just around the corner so be aware.
(3)Theodore D.
Food and drinks here are very very good, costs a bit more than other Mexican restaurants but worth it for a fun night out for Mexican food and to get a bit buzzed. Try the "Tacos - Hot Grandma's Way" with one potato, one shredded beef and one shrimp, you won't be disappointed. Or another favorite is their fish tacos, the "fish sauce" they are served with compliments them perfectly. The Chile Verde isn't like anything you'll get from another Mexican restaurant, it's more like a meaty stew than just a sauce and makes for a great burrito. Or go with the cheese enchiladas, the mole they use is a sweet (hint of cinnamon flavor) and savory sauce that goes well with the white cheese they use. The recipes are different from the other "Americanized" Mexican food you get around town, or the other traditional recipes you get from La Puente or La Frontera. Give it a try and enjoy.
(5)Mary S.
The food at El Chuhuahua is good for the price. The reason we come is the drinks. Amazing drink specials and best margaritas in Utah, hands down. The Low Rider is the classic margarita, they also have a pomegranate version. The Death Star packs a punch and they also have a Duckie Death Star that comes in a huge fish bowl with a rubber Duckie. Love this place and the family who owns it!
(4)Peter B.
I have been several times in the past with family and the experience has been fine. Nothing spectacular, but ok. Last night, however, was a disaster. Luckily beat the rush as Thursday is popular for the drink specials. I ordered the quesadilla platter. Food came quickly but the waitress was really not attendant. We had our infant grandson and he requires a steady supply of napkins to clean up his messes. Several times we had to ask for napkins. After the food arrived the waitress took a long time to get back to check on us so we were eating a while without napkins. Now I am no quesadilla expert, but I have had my share in my life. This platter came without any toppings such as sour cream, salsa, and quac. I have never in my life received a quesadilla without at least two of those. This one tonight had none. I asked the waitress if I was missing something, but no, that's how they came. She did offer to bring some toppings. OK, but the tortilla's were just old or something, as they were like rubber. The fillings were soso, no real flavor, but had a lingering onion taste which I still have the following morning. Overall: service fair, food awful. Stay away from the quesadilla platter. My son likes this place, so I will likely be back to check something else on the menu. If it were my choice, I would not return.
(1)Allie D.
El Chihuahua used to be our favorite go to spot for Mexican food. Once "A Bar Named Sue" moved in, things started to go down hill. The dining room where the booths used to be reeks of smoke from the bar patrons who don't stand 25 feet from the door. The parking is hell at night and the prices have increased drastically over the last couple of years. $13 bucks for 2 cheese enchiladas is a bit ridiculous. It's better to go for lunch, much cheaper and better service. I am bummed because the food isn't consistently good. Their cheese enchiladas used to be my favorite, but I've had times where the tortillas are so greasy they fall apart and the cheese isn't even melted. Also paying a buck for a sprinkling of onions or a little 2 ounce container of sour cream is a bit much.
(2)Michael T.
The Death Star is my favorite drink there à nd it's got actual alcohol! The food is great and daisy Mexican or dry and spicy and I've had almost everything on the menu.
(5)Kipp G.
We love this place and visit almost every week. Great margaritas and excellent food. A great value!
(5)Rachael L.
Overpriced for mediocre mexican food in Utah. The did have a burrito special which was decently priced, we both got that. We lived in Dallas the past couple years, so good mexican food may just not be in the cards. Must also agree that the service is careless and not very professional. Although, this place is right down the street, so maybe next time we'll go just for one of the drinks everyone is talking about!
(3)Brittany W.
The only reason you come here is for The Death Star. Other than that the food is just ok, especially for what you pay.
(2)Tyson W.
The other mediocre reviews are correct. The food is incredibly bland. I had to add salt to my rice and beans, which has never happened to me at a Mexican restaurant. The chile relleno was a bit different than I was used to, and didn't really taste like anything. We did have an Original Death Star, which we thought was delicious. But that couldn't redeem the service. We went on a Friday night, so I tried to be patient. My drink came pretty quickly, but then nobody took my order for over an hour after the drink came out. After two hours in the restaurant, we were standing up to simply leave, but the entrees came out at that exact moment. They were not worth waiting for at all. Try it if all you want is a unique drink and some chips. Go somewhere else if you want tasty food or good service.
(2)Boo D.
Super nachos chile verde are soooo good and filling. Not for whimps. You can't find the super nachos on the regular menu. It's on a separate specials menu. Also ofcourse any of their death star drinks are so delicious and it's a really strong drink. It's a fun atmosphere with tons of tv's and lots of group parties there. I love going here for a drink and food!
(5)Amanda H.
I have to say, I am not a fan of Mexican food! But when my roommates dog died I told him I would take him anywhere, he choose El Chihuahua. The waitress was a doll! She told us about things that weren't on the menu, served us amazing "soup bowl" drinks and didn't give me gruff for drinking alcohol and ordering chicken fingers off the kids menu because again I don't eat Mexican food. I will be coming back for the cocktails! Very well priced, and great staff!
(4)Kelie H.
This restaurant is next door to a bar. The people who go to this bar apparently like to pregame at El Chihuahua. It was extremely loud and there were drunk people everywhere. I wouldn't have minded so much if I hadn't brought the whole fam here for dinner, kids and all. Prices were a lot higher than I expected as you won't find a dish on the menu for less than $12. I scoffed at that at first because they appear to offer simple tex-mex fare but I ordered a $12 taco salad and when it arrived it could have easily fed 3 people. So while prices are a bit on the high side for Utah, portions are huge. The drink menu is also huge. They have a giant list of flavors for margaritas, daquiris and their famous "Death Star" drinks, which have everclear, rum and your choice of juice. On Thursdays these are only $5 and they are served in those super big "schooner" glasses, so this is quite a bargain. Food was ok. Not fabulous, certainly not authentic Mexican. It was filling and fresh and as mentioned before, gigantic. I didn't like their salsa (bland), but I liked the chips. Our server was awesome. I loved her. I probably wouldn't come back here with the family to eat dinner. I can definitely see myself coming back for the drink menu and a little pregaming of my own, though.
(3)Charles S.
My first thought was, "Wow! This place is expensive for basic Mexican food." My second thought was, "Wow! Cheap beer!" My third thought was, "Wow! The portion sizes are HUGE!" My fourth thought was, "Wow! That's pretty damn good food." My fifth thought was, "Wow! The service is really good." My sixth thought was, "Wow! I think I'll come back again... but next time I'll SHARE an entree."
(3)Amy K.
Let me say first up that I am not a huge fan of mexican food. Instantly you should say, "Well, why are you reviewing this?" and I applaud you for that, but I have had *better*. I've been here a number of times, mostly at other people's suggestion, and I feel most people go here for the beverages, not particularly the food. El Chihuahua is known for their "Death Star" drinks, and that's a massive big-enough-for-a-family-of-four-goldfish-to-live-Âin frosted glass of magical iced alcoholic-ness. For that, they likely could get 4 stars on it's own, so if that's why you want, go. As for the food, it just tastes like practically nothing more than cheese and sauce. So if that's what you want, then go right ahead again, but I'll be taking my mediocre love for Mexican food elsewhere in the future.
(2)Baylee B.
We went here on a Saturday night, and it was PACKED. It took a really long time for us to get food, but the service was great. She stopped by often and updated us, which was much appreciated. She was very professional and friendly! Also, the margaritas are massive and delicious. Everyone in our group was very happy with the food! We will be back.
(4)Anthony T.
I only come for the deathstars The menu is far too overpriced for the pile of questionable food that gets set in front of you. The Deathstar is to die for though, and quite a bargain. We come here every week on thursday out of tradition for drinks. I'd be a little more inclined to give them 3-4 stars if the food was a little cheaper.
(2)Chelsea G.
I had birthday plans to come here for my birthday. Like anyone would, I checked El Chihuahua's website to see if they take reservations. It clearly states that they do not. When I arrived a half hour early to make sure we got a table, I was asked "did you call in for a table?" I responded, "No. Your site states that you guys don't take reservations..." This woman then looks at me with a smirk and says, "Oh reaaaally? Well that's probably because it's a secret. We try to not let anyone know about it." So, you don't take reservations... But really, you do? That makes no sense and is completely unprofessional. If you don't take reservations then you should probably stick to your word. The food is not good, but the Death Stars make up for it.
(2)Briton C.
Refried beans, rice, shredded lettuce, chips fresh salsa. This place has it. If you're living in the Millcreek area and are looking for sound Mexican with a lively atmosphere, El Chihuahua is your pooch. Their salsa was fresh and delicious, their platters were huge, and the beverages were plentiful. The enchiladas are tasty with the nice mole that they make. I didn't find it to be exceptional, but it hit spot on a cold night. Try it out and decide for yourself.
(3)Sky T.
The food here is decent, but their drink special is stellar. I believe it is called the Death Star and it is filled with a whole lotta wonderful tequila with a good range of flavors from raspberry to pomegranate. The best part about this is that it is $5.00 + tax on a Tuesday. I love my Tuesdays now because of this place. For the food, it is simple and nothing outstanding, but it sure does taste great with the Death Star. With your meal, you get a complimentary side of chips and salsa which is always nice. The salsa is mild and homemade so it can get pretty addicting pretty fast. Let see...just a couple more days until it is Tuesday again. Recommendation(s): Tequila Tuesday's Raspberry Lime Death Star for $5.00. -- Thanks to Geoff W. for the update! "Tuesday, I found out yesterday, is Koo Koo Kool Aid day, and Thursday is actually Death Star Day. My head is feeling it today, irregardless, I assure you. After reading your review yesterday, I immediately went there after work. Thanks for the tip.. and the hangover. ;)"
(3)Lowell O.
Our family loves El Chihuahua! My 3yo daughter constantly requests it when we go out on the weekend. The food is great and the service has always been amazing. Weekends are crowded so it's best to go early!
(5)Chantal V.
There drinks are to D I E for, seriously! I wake up almost everyday craving a koo koo kool aid!!! But there pink Death Star is also killer too! Although there is a limit of two on the Death Stars (because they will put your d in the d, if you feel my vibe) but I love them and always have a blast when I go! They also have secret Death Star drinks that aren't on the menu! So be sure to ask
(5)Jackie M.
Just like some of the other reviews had said, the food here is not great and to be honest its over priced for the quality of food. They may give you a lot but I didn't even want to eat half of what I had. Not worth it
(1)Jennifer H.
So let me just say first off, that my "as good as it gets" review, is strictly for alcohol. The food is hit and miss...it doesnt SUCK, and it provides good noshing when the alcohol starts to flow....but thats about it. Serious Mexican food lovers should not judge the food too harshly. Im from Atlanta and this is the first place ive been where 8 bucks can get you fucked up, driving is seriously questionable after one of their death stars...they are the size of my head and contain everclear, vodka....and the list goes on. Love this damn place...
(5)Brendan K.
El Chihuahua, where to start...? Let me begin by saying, most things we hold dear to our hearts, are there because of what they are. They're not superficial, pretend, holy grail worthy items. Like those things dear to us we hold them in regard to their worth, meaning, and reality. El Chihuahua is a well priced, well placed, and well run establishment. Lets be honest, is El Chihuahua the next Zagat, or Micheline Star rated restaurant. NO it's not at all. However it is above what a realist would expect from a strip mall restaurant. The price is reasonable for the portion you receive, the atmosphere is fun, and open. If you think $12 for a plate of food is over priced you may want to frequent places like Taco Bell, Del Taco, or stay at home buy a pound of meat and make your own tacos. If you're looking to pay top dollar and have white table cloths go to Park City. If you want wonderful appetizing home cooked Mexican food, El Chihuahua is a great place to go! As far as the food goes DO NOT forget to try the Spicy Pork Tacos (not on the menu) Their Chili Verde is great, and make sure you ask for the spicy salsa. It's got a kick, and great flavor! The bar is great, and you can get saucy here so if you plan to drive just stick with water or a soda. You will leave well nourished, and content. I will tell you now you will return, again and again!
(4)Michelle R.
I love this place! The death star margaritas are awesome. The chile rellenos are super good. I also love their rice, it is a little spicey. The food is a little pricey but it is worth it.
(4)Sherrie S.
Spicy pork tacos and a Death Star? I was in heaven. The service was great and the atmosphere was too. We will definitaly be going back. I can see there are quite a few prior comments about the cost of the food, but let's face it, $12.00 really isn't unreasonable for an entree, especially if you share.
(4)Andy H.
30 minutes after ordering, I was told my ticket was lost and they just put in my food. 10 minutes after that I was served severely undercooked enchiladas. The cheese wasn't melted, the corn tortillas were hard and cold. I was never offered a refill on my beverage.
(1)Andrea M.
Don't go if it's busy and don't believe the hostess if she tells you it's only a ten minute wait (which turned into an hour). The owner then yelled at us for not be willing to wait longer. (In fact, she kind of freaked me out and was so unprofessional!) It's very expensive for Mexican food, which is just so so in flavor. While I love the huge margaritas at el chihuahua, Tres Hombres six blocks away has just as good of food, awesome service, beautiful ambience and great prices.
(2)Drew J.
Go for the Death Stars, jalapeño salsa and chips. That's it! If not the bathroom will be your new best friend.
(2)Matthew Z.
Awful. Vegetarians beware, there are almost no options unless plain cheese enchiladas or bean burritos are up your alley. The rice is dried out and awful, the only vegetarian sauce tastes like it is from a can and is horribly slimy, and the beans are obviously canned. Everything is oily and greasy. Also, wicked expensive. $12 for two cheese enchiladas? Really? The salsa was pathetic and had chopped celery in it. (?) Go to Chungas instead if you can't handle the wait at Red Iguana. Your mouth and wallet will thank you.
(1)Seth G.
This place sucks!! Wow, what a disappointment! Go down highland to Tres Hombres if u want Mexican food. Only thing good here is the corona! Don't waste your time or money ! ! !
(1)Travis W.
Forget Red Iguana, El Chihuahua is the Mexican restaurant for me. I think they make a much better chili verde, and I love their fajitas. I also appreciate the option of the cheesy zucchini soup in stead of the standard rice and beans.
(5)Levi W.
I don't come here for the food. I come here for the drinks. The people giving poor reviews obviously have never had their Deathstars.
(5)A L.
5 stars because it's an all around good experience. The food is good. They add different veggies to their dishes, it is your standard American-Mexican with a twist. The price point is fair for the amount of food you get. We usually come for the drinks, they have a huge variety of unique combinations. This last time we tried the spicy salas and it was fresh and FULL of spice!
(5)Tracey L.
One of our favorite spots. Great food, drinks & fabulous service!! Tacos grandmas way rock & so do the chile rellenos. Ask for the "hot" salsa
(5)Ted D.
Ehhhhh... Very mediocre in my opinion. Very noisy on weekends and food and service were just ok. Not returning... much better options for Mexican food in SLC. La Hacienda on Redwood rocks for authentic Mexican grub! :)
(2)Daniel B.
Today we're talking about El Chihuahua. No, not the Taco Bell dog. The place that is next to a Bar Named Sue on Highland Drive. The one where the waiter brings you that big basket of warm tortilla chips to chomp on while you wait for the food to arrive. Yeah, you know the place. We all know the place. According to our very patient waiter (he had to come back three times while we deliberated on our options), the Mexican themed restaurant offers a different combo each day. Behind him, and on every way wall in the restaurant, were large flat screen TVs set to ESPN. I ordered a combo of an enchilada and a chile relleno (as if I would still be hungry after downing a basket of the aforementioned tortilla chips). My Better Half had a couple of chicken enchiladas, shared with the Little One, and Dear Ol' Mom, along for night, had a bowl soup. All sorts of good stuff in this menu. I enjoyed my very much smothered cheese enchilada, almost as much as I did the loads of beans and rice that came with it (which, I was informed, by my ever informative and health conscious Dear Ol' Mom, combined makes a complete protein). More, I really enjoyed the chile relleno. Admittedly, it was my first, but I'm looking forward to my second, now. Smothered and well spiced, it was drowned in a red sauce mixed with several types of zucchini. I think. (I'm pretty sure they weren't cucumbers). After I'd cleaned up my enchilada/chile relleno combo, I moved in for a couple bites of my Better Half's enchiladas. They were...satisfactory, but not fantastic. The chicken was well chopped, but the tortilla seemed a little bland, as did the chicken. The soup? Well, my Dear Ol' Mom said it was fantastic. Especially the avocados.
(3)Jennifer M.
Food is good, prices are a little high but portion sizes are good. Excellent lunch special for $7.00 includes an alcoholic drink. I usually get a cheese enchilada with a margarita. For dinner I order the deathstar. Can't beat it. May be a little sweet for some but perfect for me. Great for large parties.
(4)RJ S.
Easily one of the WORST dining experiences I've ever had. No complaints about the service, but the food was mediocre at best. They claim their food is "authentic Mexican - not Americanized". They clearly haven't eaten in any of the cities I've visited in Mexico. And the prices are far too high for such mediocrity. One reviewer mentioned that the owners had run the Guadalupe Center many years ago. As a frequent patron of the Guadalupe Center before it closed, I can say without hesitation that El Chihuahua's food bears absolutely no resemblance to Guadalupe Center's. You're allowed one small basket of chips served with salsa made primarily of tomato juice and celery. If you want more chips, it'll cost you $1.00. Great way to take care of customers! I suspect the people who really like El Chihuahua go there for the booze and don't care what the food tastes like. Don't waste your time or money or taste buds at El Chihuahua. You'll regret it.
(1)Mariah C.
Is the food good? Not really. Good compared to other Mexican-style food joints in Utah? Yes. Why is the place always packed? Great vibe, decent food, and a full bar. It is good for both kids and adults. I can't recommend anything from the menu because it is a crap-shoot.
(3)Craig N.
This place was started when the cooks from the old Guadalupe center W of the old salt palace left to start El Chihuahua. S-4 (Chile verde enchiladas platter) was a heavenly find at the Center and WE were grateful to find it again as S-4 at El chihuahua. The best chile verde I have ever had. Except I after years of fudging making my own better. Not sure about the other food as I dare not step away from the Chile Verde enchiladas. Highly recommended and after trying many other restaurants no one comes close to El Chihuahua's chile verde!
(5)Alejandro J.
Good family run restaurant with delicious food and friendly staff. Their "Deathstar" drink is by far the strongest in SLC and they are only $5 on Thursdays. Their jalapeño salsa is also worth the trip.
(4)Rae R.
Love the food AND the drinks here. The top shelf margarita is awesome as are the Death Stars (they have multiple flavors, but I prefer the original) Prices are a little high, but they do have HUGE portions, so you could probably share if you wanted to save a little money. Easy place to get drunk, so watch out!
(4)Eric F.
Meh. Just your average sit down Mexican restaurant. No complaints... Food was about what was expected. Restaurant was clean and newer. Service was prompt and friendly but nothing over the top or noteworthy. Prices are reasonable and they had a pretty good specials menu and about the selection of most other restaurants. The free appetizer chips were delicious though! (maybe I was just really hungry. lol)
(3)Mitsuyo F.
I've been going to El Chihuahua for YEARS and it has been my #1 favorite Mexican restaurant in SLC. I recently moved back to UT after living out of state for 2 years and could not wait to eat at my favorite Mexican restaurant again..... BOOOOOO EL CHIHUAHUA!!! They raised their prices. Same food, same restaurant, just really exensive now. The place hasn't gotten any classier, still the same Mexican cantina except they got a new sign. There were 4 of us, they gave 1 basket of chips and charged for the second.... El Chihuahua has lost their freakin mind. I live around the corner and won't be back because it's just not worth it.
(1)Polly P.
Great atmosphere. The food is okay, but I think people mainly come here for the drinks. Recommendations for drinks: Death Star, Low Rider Margharita, or the Koo-laide Recommendations for food: the potato grandma tacos or anything in the chile verde
(5)Brian T.
We love the el chi! I'm vegetarian and there are plenty of options for me... And you can't beat the drinks and the friendly service. Thumbs up to Vic & company!!!
(5)Rich L.
I've driven past this place several times in the last few months and finally decided to stop in, I tried a bowl of Chile Verde with corn tortilla's, which was surprisingly good, but the wife got a chicken enchilada and said it wasn't very good, I thought the same thing when they brought it out. The people were very nice and accommodating but the place is kinda beat up and they only have one little unisex bathroom for a large Restaurant and cantina, that doesn't really cut it for a place that size. I hate to wait!
(3)Kandice D.
I really like this place, especially the salsa, it is different than most places but its great. The food and drink proportion are huge so be prepared to feast and get drunk. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone!
(4)Michael M.
I'll throw this place a bone, since they threw a bone in my chicken burrito, and say the service (once seated) was very good for the size of our dinner party (22 people). My girlfriend says the margarita was very good and I'll have to take her word for it since I rarely drink. However, my dish, two chicken burritos with fixins for $12, was amateurish at best. I mean, look, I'm in Utah, I'm not expecting authentic food straight from south of the border, but at least TRY and fake it. This was nothing more than Hormel chicken pieces lathered in a weak Tex-Mex sauce wrapped in a flour tortilla. I mean, this was the type of execution your pre-teen would put into a Mexican dinner. I knew I was in for it when the re-fried beans had their own crust when my food arrived. My girlfriend said the taco salad shell was quite greasy and another big clue to a bad taco salad is when it is smothered in sour cream and guacamole. Many taco salads were ordered by our party, not a one was finished or taken home. Upon arrival, the entryway was jammed with customers despite several open tables. Seating you right away is clearly not a priority. However, once seated, the service was very good, my compliments to Lindsey our server who is outstanding, however, the food was not worth the time or effort.
(2)Adiel N.
The service is polite and prompt. Not overbearing, but there when you need it. The food is delicious every time that I'm there. I would say the one downside to this place would be that they appear to be renovating. The place doesn't look too tidy at the moment, but I'm sure in time this will be fixed.
(4)