Burrito Express

Mexican restaurant · Pasadena

Burrito Express

Mexican restaurant · Pasadena

1

1597 E Washington Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91104

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Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null
Burrito Express by null

Highlights

Specialty burritos, generous portions, friendly service, casual vibe  

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1597 E Washington Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91104 Get directions

burritoexpresspasadena.com
@burritoexpresspasadena

$10–20 · Menu

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1597 E Washington Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91104 Get directions

+1 626 798 0844
burritoexpresspasadena.com
@burritoexpresspasadena

$10–20 · Menu

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Last updated

Aug 8, 2025

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@eater

The Five Definitive Burrito Styles of Los Angeles - Eater LA

"There’s an inherent playfulness with fusion burritos, whether it’s a sushi burrito wrapped in nori, a chicken tikka burrito from 23rd Street Cafe Indian Restaurant, or the Judge Ito burrito from the 45-year-old Pasadena restaurant Burrito Express, with extra rice, minimal beans, sour cream, guacamole, and cheese." - Eater Staff

https://la.eater.com/2023/4/11/23669869/los-angeles-burrito-types-styles-chicano-bean-cheese-taco-truck
View Postcard for Burrito Express

Dameon

Google
The beef, bean and cheese burrito is a must every time I visit. I literally light up like a little kid when I take that first bite. Another thing that keeps us coming back is the customer service we always revive from Daya. She is always so warm, welcoming and genuinely makes us feel like she’s excited to see us. People like her really keep businesses open.

Shawn Shepherd

Google
This is a "tiny", but great little spot! It's right on the corner and there's only two parking spaces....but plenty of on-street parking. Staff were friendly, service was quick, and the food was good. I recommend the Ross Perot (and do it Vic style).....but be prepared....it's a lot of food (so don't let the price dissuade you). We'll definitely be back!

Shelli Hale

Google
Burrito Express is one of those places that instantly makes you feel like part of the family. The staff are always friendly, welcoming, and genuinely happy to chat while you order. It’s the kind of vibe that makes you want to come back—not just for the food, but for the people. That said, the food is absolutely worth the visit on its own. Everything is super fresh, portions are generous, and the flavors hit every time. We especially love the Breakfast Burrito and the Chile Verde Burrito—both packed with flavor and always satisfying. And the Torta? Easily the best in town. If you're in Pasadena and want great food served by wonderful people in a laid-back, friendly spot, Burrito Express should be at the top of your list.

T ROB

Google
Love this place. I used to live in Pasadena and this was the place to go. Now I live in ontario and I sneak away there every time I am around the area. I'm simple, chorizo burrito or a bean and cheese and I am good. The hot sauce is so tasty and the service is always welcoming. I knew the owner and some of the staff. I recommend this place for a great burrito. All there food is delicious.

Nick Martinez

Google
Great spot for quality food at fair and reasonable prices. Amazing how everywhere else is selling burritos starting at $15! Service was fast and friendly. Will be making this my go to spot for Mexican food. You must try it.

taylor tea

Google
I was walking around and kind of just randomly stumbled upon this place and decided I'd give it a shot, as I love trying new Mexican places. I'm so glad I did because this is my new favorite place! The location is super small, but still has a few tables inside and a couple outside, which seemed clean when I visited. Definitely had a hole-in-the-wall vibe, which I love, personally. Employees were masked, which I also appreciated. The lady behind the counter was so friendly and had such a welcoming demeanor. I told her it was my first time trying the place and she informed me they were known for their beans and their shredded beef, so, of course, I had to try both. The menu is just big enough, and offers a nice selection of things at very reasonable prices. They also have pre-made burritos that you can buy to-go, which I thought was a very cool idea and a nice plus! I ordered the bean and cheese burrito, a hard-shell shredded beef taco, and some chips and salsa on the side. The shredded beef was really good {I can't wait to go back and try it in a burrito), but the bean and cheese burrito was the real standout here. DELICIOUS. I absolutely love a good burrito and am always on the hunt for the right experience and I think the search has ended. Absolutely give this place a shot, if you haven't yet! They also deliver through Doordash, so keep that in mind.

Roibin Contreras

Google
I would definitely come back here!!! Super nice workers and fast! They treat you better than home!

JohnB 00007

Google
Did I just die and go to burrito heaven? Maybe. I had the Ross Perot Burrito and a crunchy beef taco. Both were very good. The taco wasn't huge but it was tasty. Service was fast and friendly. I had my order to go, but there were some people seated outside. This is not a large place so seating is limited. I will be back.
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Maggie C.

Yelp
Burrito Express is a Pasadena institution -- it even has its own dedicated wiki page lol We got the Ross Perot and Pasadena burrito Vic's special. Honestly it was just ok...we got mild and there wasn't much flavor. Also they didn't include any additional salsas so we ate plain chips. My biggest gripe was the salad..the lettuce was soggy and the tomato was half frozen. This restaurant donated money to the wildfires which is so amazing. I'd come back and try other things!
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Eric H.

Yelp
Old school since 1978. I got the Crunchy Beef Taco, a Carne Asada Soft Taco and a Bean & Cheese Burrito. The Crunchy Beef Taco was tasty and flavorful, but the meat in the soft taco was a bit gristly. The Bean & Cheese Burrito could have had some more cheese (my Humble opinion) but it was also good. I've been here twice now and they have lots of regular customers. The lady that runs the lunch crowd is super friendly and helpful, I'm going again just to see her!! (and to get the JVC Burrito). Prices are reduced when you pay with cash. Burrito Express is A'OK.
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Alissa A.

Yelp
I recently went in and ordered a breakfast burrito with asada. Naturally I expected to wait a bit for my burrito to be freshly made. But to my shock, less than 2 minutes after I ordered, my burrito was ready. It takes at least 5 minutes to cook eggs correctly and another 10-15 to cook meat. So why was my burrito ready in an unrealistically quick time? Seems fishy. So I go to take the first bite of the burrito and discover that the fillings are room temperature. ROOM TEMP. And the burrito's tortilla feels lukewarm, as if it all had been sitting out for a minute. The burrito was so unappetizing that I couldn't finish it and had to throw it out. Talk about a waste of food and money. It's sad because I used to love coming to this place as a kid! Now, it isn't the same anymore. The food quality has decreased and the customer service is questionable. Unfortunately this is one out of many problems I've had with their food recently so I won't be coming back here anytime soon. But I hope they eventually do better for their customers.
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Ashley R.

Yelp
5 Star burrito spot in Pasadena! I tried a grilled shredded beef burrito with beans and cheese. Chefs kiss! If you've ever grilled a tamale then you need to have your burrito grilled, hands down. They have an excellent selection of burrito styles that reminds me of the wet burrito style. I'm looking forward to trying the spot on a regular basis with family and friends. It's a great idea to take it to go and enjoy at the local park. Quick tip, use cash to pay and receive a lower price. Although both cash and card are accepted. Staff is friendly and will make recommendations if you don't know what to try. I liked their salsa verde, just the right amount of heat. Their salsa roja is all about flavor with little to no heat. There are tables inside that remind me of a former taco stand I would go to with my grandparents. It definitely has a nostalgic feeling.
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Danny O.

Yelp
Service was prompt and quick. I got the pasadena burrito and fries. It was good. The burrito was flavorful and the sauce was a good add on. The burritos ain't small here.
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Stacey A.

Yelp
Ive been craving a classic bean and cheese burrito from Burrito Express so I thought I'd leave a review in the meantime! Im notoriously known in my family to not eat beans, but when I tried this it was sooooooooo good that now Im more open to beans. I got the chicken bean and cheese burrito and its just a simple pleasure that satisfies. I support this business also because they donated to damages caused by the LA wildfires, the staff/owner here are great! Its a simple spot but with good food! Chill location, no drive thru, service is quick! Need to come back soon
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HoyMay P.

Yelp
Staff were quite nice. When you check in on Yelp, you get a 15% discount on your entire meal. Nice! We decided on a chicken tostada and shredded beef burrito to go. Service was fast. There are 3 inside booths and several outdoor table and chairs. The food was mediocre unfortunately. Even with salsa in the meals they were lackluster. They are several other choices in the area so next time we'll go elsewhere. They have a very small parking lot and some street parking.
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David X.

Yelp
This place is delicious and a hidden gem. Small seating areas, both inside and outside. Good price point as well especially at Pasadena prices. The food's made really fast and the workers are nice. Recently had chimichangas for a home Deadpool 3 party.

William M.

Yelp
Great, classic neighborhood restaurant. Solid Mexican fast food. amazing Mexican breakfasts - highly recomended. Very kind owners.
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Ari H.

Yelp
Ahhh. This isn't right. How can mexican food be missing onion and cilantro?? The green paste thing that's supposed to be guac is just not doing it..It tastes really sour, and I know that's not what guac is supposed to taste like.
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Josh H.

Yelp
Fast service . Friendly staff and with a nice area to sit and enjoy. Fantastic bean and cheese burritos. Get 2. One for later. If you're a bean and cheese type of person, don't sleep on on the B&C burrito w/ green sauce.
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Aj G.

Yelp
My wet burrito barely had steak in it and flavor was mild..but the price was reasonable
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Terry C.

Yelp
So we all know that I love love love Burrito Express. I've been going there for the same beef, bean, and cheese spicy burrito since the 80's. They are sooo consistent and the flavor of that burrito is exactly the same every time I have it. The best part about it is the deliciously seasoned machaca beef. Sooo yummy. But now it looks like they're trying a smash burger on a flour tortilla. The jury is out on that. While my 5 yr old grandson loved it, I was only mildly impressed. It had meat, pico de gallo, and I think cheese With 1000 island dressing. The flavor of the patty was good. But I'm not sure if this concept works. Glad I got my burrito though. It was AMAZING as always!!
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Shirley S.

Yelp
I had not had anything from this establishment for literally YEARS! Simply because I remember the food being incredibly bland. I love supporting local small business. Also, I recently received a $15 promotional credit from a credit card that I could use towards the purchase of food. So, I thought I'd give them another try. Unfortunately, the food is even more bland than I remembered. I ordered two crispy beef tacos (which turned out to be shredded beef) and an order of beef taquitos. In both cases, the beef tasted like flavorless boil-in-bag meat that had no seasoning added. As for the the taco shells, Old El Paso boxed shells are better. The guacamole on the taquitos tasted like something out of a can or jar. I can't say that I was disappointed because my expectations were already low. The highlight was the side of spicy red sauce that I ordered. It was passable. Ice cold (right from the fridge), but passable. Also, the service was pleasant. 2 tacos, 1 order of taquitos and the red sauce hit me for just over $16 Fortunately, with the promotion, my actual out-of-pocket was just over a dollar. That's what's good about this experience. I absolutely HATE to say that I would not recommend this place.
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Lu L.

Yelp
So delicious it's funny cause it had no flavor but the bacon was crunchy and I still really enjoyed it with the salsa that also had no flavor but I'm telling you was very good! Maybe I don't need all that salt to enjoy foood
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Henry L.

Yelp
Like their name, this will be an express review. Dropped by since I was close by and was met at the counter by the nicest lady ever. She helped me navigate their rather creative menu and we decided on the JVC burrito. I didn't know which one to get so I got one beef, one chicken, and one pork. Everything about them was delicious except, and this is a big except, the use of double tortillas. They state it clearly on the menu so I was expecting it but I figured they would make it work somehow. But alas it did not. It was a whole lot of tortilla to bite through and they're not particularly tasty at that. With some careful knife work I removed one tortilla from the burrito without compromising its integrity and it was sooo much better. Next time I'm going to make the request for one tortilla only and all will be good!
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Estela G.

Yelp
Food is good, what you'd expect from Mexican food. It has the staples and you can always count on the taste. Burritos are big. Its fast. Very little seating, it's more of a pick up and go. They have 2 parking spots, but there's also street parking.

S S.

Yelp
I've been going to Burrito Express for years. It's small, family owned, located near Altadena. Clean. Delicious food. Generous portions: A burrito, chicken taco and 4 cheese enchiladas are enough for a week's worth of meals. I went after the Eaton fire and saw a sign the owners, Wil and Deya, posted outside: Free meals for first responders and anyone displaced by the fires. They will always have my business.
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Elizabeth A.

Yelp
Chefs kiss! Thank you so much for the service my fiancé and I split a wet burrito shredded beef so good! We'll be coming back again!
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Jeff B.

Yelp
I love this place so much, I could eat the carne asada all day and I love the staff. I would highly recommend. Enjoy!
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Nicole M.

Yelp
I had a BRC and my husband had a asada burrito, both were very good! Loved the salsa. And the service was great. The women who helped us was genuinely kind and friendly. You can tell everyone who came in was a local. Everyone was so kind and you could feel the community vibe. I would definitely recommend!
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J L.

Yelp
Food is delicious! We got the JVC with chicken and a bacon breakfast burrito. Beans are so good! Lettuce is fresh! Bacon is perfect crisp for a burrito! The red salsa is smoky and spicy, the green salsa is tangy and spicy! As a salsa maker, I totally approve of the authentic flavors. Huge thank you to the lovely woman who attended us, she made us feel at home. Definitely a local favorite now
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Yanin S.

Yelp
The JVC without meat with side salad, and the bean and cheese burrito were very fresh. Very cute restaurant and the staff are so nice.
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Jimmy W.

Yelp
Little hole-in-the-wall spot on the corner and it's really good! Just a few tables inside with more seating outside. Good portions, super tasty, and decent prices. Deya at the window is a sweetheart and her service was fantastic, meals came out super fast! The #7 Burrito plate was great, awesome portion and the green sauce was . The chips were a bit stale but she happily swapped them out for some nice crispy warm ones! Steady stream of customers at lunch time and she knew pretty much all of them so clearly it's a favorite with the locals. Recommend!
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Kendra P.

Yelp
Received take out from this place tonight, and it was actually not as good as I remembered it. I will take in to account that it was the end of the night and I got delivery. I got the Pasadena burrito which is supposed to mock a California burrito, so it had French fries and carne asada in it. The meat was pretty over done and didn't taste great. The sauce was meh, and I did get it wet which the sauce was covering the burrito. I only ate about the 1/4 of the burrito because I didn't want to waste the calories and eat any more of this burrito that wasn't great. Also got a quesadilla with shredded beef. The meat in that was good, tender, the quesadilla just needed more cheese. I think their breakfast burritos ate much better if I can recall from memory.

Larry J.

Yelp
A neighborhood institution, food is always amazing and the service is always great. Especially important to support businesses in this area after the Eaton fire as they were forced to close due to lack of utilities.
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Leonard C.

Yelp
Everything is good and tasty. Love their pork burrito and recently had the cheese enchiladas and they were very good. If you get the taquitos have them add cheese on top.

Alex H.

Yelp
Meat quality was extremely poor, carne asada was all gristle and very chewy. Crispy tacos were as small as a Taco Bell hard taco. 2 stars for fast delivery. Will not be back.
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Nirosh W.

Yelp
Great Mexican place to order devious foods my sister and I pass the place after mom dylais

Jeff S.

Yelp
Went to Burrito Express yesterday for taquitos.Not only were they under $5 but they were as good as I remember.Can't go wrong here.

Isa O.

Yelp
Wish I could give 0 stars. Honestly got food poisoning, mid service, yeah that's all. don't know what else to say

Michael R.

Yelp
I have loved this place since 1986! since 1986, I have NEVER found a better red hot sauce!!

Isabel C.

Yelp
I got two burritos from here at the Rhode pop up shop on Melrose and they were SO good!! I'm a very very picky eater and didn't think I'd be able to eat one and it was the best burrito I've ever had. Ever since I got one I've been wanting to go to the actual location and get a burrito. My mom loved it too and we talk about them all the time. I've never liked a burrito before
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Ashley B.

Yelp
This place is delicious. Authentic Mexican food restaurant that has been open for 30+ years... that says something. Smaller seating areas, both inside and outside. Will definitely stop here again when going through Pasadena.
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Anthony R P.

Yelp
Fast and super friendly service. I ordered a bean and cheese burrito and a carnitas taco. The star of the show was their green salsa. The beans were perfect consistency but needed salt. But the green salsa made it delicious. The carnitas were a little in the dry suffer and also needed salt. Those items and a large diet was under 14 dollars. Happy with that. The food was 3 stars. Service was 5. I'd come back and try other items.
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Craig W.

Yelp
Perfectly fine burritos. They are not crazy llong but they are squat and fat. We tried the JVC with chicken and the Ross Perot. I thought the JVC had a little more flavor than the Perot. Even with the three meats inside the Perot, it wasn't a flavor powerhouse. The "spicy" salsa really wasn't very spicy but it had a nice flavor. The chips were fresh and crunchy. The service was friendly and our meals were ready in a flash. Fair prices for what you get.

Brigitt M.

Yelp
Placed a large order for an event. Spoke with Will and he made the process easy . Burritos were a hit for lunch, everyone enjoyed their pick . I think the Chili Verde was the favorite . Food fresh Service excellent and friendly. Come here for your next meal !
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Kaylin D.

Yelp
I love coming here. The food is good and the woman that works there is the NICEST! She's so sweet. I like to get the combo burritos or the breakfast chorizo burrito.
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L. G.

Yelp
Can't understand all the great reviews. My four and eight year old grandkids love this place. But all they ever want is bean and cheese burritos so that doesn't say much for rating Mexican food in general. I've tried other menu items including the burritos but I'm not impressed. For me it's a one star but for the grandkids I made it a three star.

Brian E.

Yelp
One of the hidden gems of Pasadena, Burrito Express has been one of my go-to places for decades. The staff is always friendly and glad to see you. While the inside dining area is small and cozy, there are many tables outside. As for the food, the JVC Spicy Beef Dinner plate is easily two meals, and is the item I have consistently ordered the longest. This is normally prepared and ready to eat but I've actually worked with the staff to turn this into a "to-go for later" item with the green salsa and cheese on the side. Doing it this way does require some assembly but it tastes just as good. I do this to enjoy a JVC later because my current favorite item is the Deluxe Nachos with carnitas and spicy green salsa. Yes, they will put the salsa directly on the nachos. This is amazing but has to be eaten soon after it is prepared and I do so with great enthusiasm.

Eryn M.

Yelp
My kids and I love the food here. Vegetarian available or as much meat in your burrito as you'd like. Cashier was very nice and it was very easy to pick up our online order.
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Marquis S.

Yelp
I'm from I'm from Orange County and I just happen to be in the area of Pasadena and was looking for breakfast burrito to try out went to burrito express found them on Google and that was a fantastic burrito I had I got myself an eggs, hash, brown chorizo, and cheese burrito everything blended perfectly together to make it a fantastic burrito would definitely come back again if I'm in the area.

Steven U.

Yelp
this place is amazing. GREAT STAFF, GREAT FOOD, they go out of their way to make you feel like family and you are the most important customer. Deya is incredible and always accommodates crazy orders. Been coming here for 32 years and love it. Woo Hoo Steven U.
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Sergio M.

Yelp
When you want a quick bite on the go and you want a good mix of ingredients, burrito express is there for you. The spicy sauce has a good kick to it too. Don't expect a restaurant quality burrito with gourmet ingredients here, but do expect something to fill you up with more than optimal flavor . I'd come back here
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Skippy C.

Yelp
One of the saddest meals I've had... Not sure how this place has 4 stars and so many reviews. I got the chicken JVC burrito and nachos with cheese and guac. The chicken is boiled/canned? The guac is avocado mixed with corn starch? The burrito seemed to be made of 2 wraps, just way too much wrap to sad filling ratio. I honestly couldn't finish the food. Still on the lookout for a decent local burrito shop in pasadena.
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Jorge B.

Yelp
Service was fast and like always no complaints there BUT most of the food tasted blend... during lunch hour. No one was there while I was waiting on my order. The chips tasted stale, rice no flavor at all, not much carnitas on the torta, didn't even try the tacos in the end. I had them a few times before and their food is great but today was disappointing.
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Ikem C.

Yelp
I picked up for doordash here. They made me wait in line, when though I could see the item I came for in a bag. They just said, "wait in line to get it". It was unnecessary and weird. I don't accept and orders from this establishment anymore.
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Roy C.

Yelp
The family that run this pace is very friendly. The Ross Perot Burrito wet with green sauce. The cookies are healthy . Nachos are simple and straight forward.
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Xochitl R.

Yelp
Pasadena staple. Nothing fancy. Solid burritos. Fast and friendly service. I always get the beef bean and cheese. The salsa is excellent- smoky not spicy. Haven't tried the rest of the menu but the place is always busy. Not much seating but that's ok because I always pick up for take out.