Peter M.
Yelp
El Norte Mexican Grill: A Dallas Tradition Full of Flavor and Fun
"Every visit to Dallas begins with a stop at El Norte. It is the kind of restaurant that feels like home the moment you walk in."
For many families, certain restaurants become part of their story. For us, El Norte Mexican Grill is one of those special places. No trip to Dallas is complete without a visit. The moment we step through the doors, we are greeted by an atmosphere that feels like a lively gathering place somewhere deep in Mexico. The décor is bold and eclectic with bright colors, hand painted elements, and fun touches everywhere you look. It brings a smile to your face before you even sit down.
Ambiance and Décor
The atmosphere is one of the things that makes El Norte so memorable. The interior is vibrant and full of personality. It captures the spirit of a true local cantina. Plenty of restaurants try to create energy, but El Norte does it naturally with a mix of color, texture, light, and joyful noise. It is a place where families relax, friends gather, and guests immediately feel at ease. There is something comforting and familiar about it even if it is your first time visiting.
Menu and Drinks
El Norte has one of the most extensive menus of any Tex Mex restaurant we have visited. There are countless options to choose from including tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, tamales, combination plates, and a full lineup of specialty dishes. One of our favorite features is the build your own plate option which lets you choose one to three items with their signature sides. Speaking of sides, the sweet potato casserole and the squash casserole are both outstanding and easily worth ordering on their own.
During our visit I enjoyed a crispy taco, a pork tamale, and a chicken verde enchilada. Susan chose the steak, chicken, and shrimp fajitas which arrived sizzling, fragrant, and delicious. Their drink menu includes everything from classic margaritas to fun specialty cocktails and they always serve them with a generous pour.
Food Quality
Food quality is where El Norte shines. Everything is flavorful, fresh, and satisfying. They serve what we consider to be the best chips in Dallas. Light, crisp, and perfectly seasoned. We always order the appetizer sampler because it includes our favorites. Stuffed jalapeno peppers, creamy guacamole, chicken chalupa, and queso. It is a wonderful way to taste a bit of everything and it sets the stage for a great meal.
Service
The service has always been warm and friendly. El Norte is a true local spot and the staff reflects that spirit. You feel taken care of by people who truly enjoy what they do. Our food arrived quickly, drinks were refreshed without asking, and every request was met with a smile.
Value and Pricing
El Norte offers exceptional value. The portions are generous and the pricing is very fair. In a time when dining out can often feel expensive, it is refreshing to find a restaurant that delivers big flavors, big plates, and a sense of hospitality without an inflated bill.
Overall Experience
El Norte Mexican Grill is a place we will always return to. It is authentic, comforting, and full of character. It is the type of restaurant that we look forward to visiting again and again. If you love flavorful Mexican food served in a lively and welcoming atmosphere, El Norte is a must try.
The Culinary Duo Rating: