El Norteño

Whenever I’m craving authentic Mexican food, this family-owned gem never disappoints. I’ve been coming here for years, and it always hits the spot. The food is flavorful, portions are generous, and you can taste the love in every bite. Their green chili burrito, enchilada style with rice and beans, is my go-to comfort dish—pure perfection. The carne asada fries are loaded and packed with flavor, and their chips with salsa are fresh and satisfying. Everything is made with care, just like home cooking. They offer great weekly specials for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and the atmosphere is very family-oriented. Seating is limited outside, so I typically call ahead, pick up, and enjoy it at home. Super convenient and always consistent. Don’t forget to check out the menu, I’ve added it to this review for anyone curious. Highly recommend supporting this spot. Local, authentic, and delicious!

My work has Taco Tuesday on Thursday where everyone gets a taco or two. They get them from El Norteno amd they are amazing! So much so that I had to treat myself to dinner there myself one Friday! I got two beef and two chicken tacos, a green chili burrito, and a pint if their salsa. Their salsa is amazing as well! I highly recommend this place for a quick bite. Just know that they only take cash.

Always quick and easy. Fresh. Never stingy or lacking anything. I always call in the order and their pricing is excellent for lunch specials with drink. Our office loves Nortenos Cash only Order ahead for no wait time. Jesus loves you!

Not exactly cheap for a hole-in-the-wall takeout spot, but the portions are big so it kinda balances out. It’s right on a busy intersection, so if you sit outside, just know it can get pretty noisy with traffic. The menu is simple and has pictures, which makes ordering super easy. I both got machaca and it was really tasty—definitely the highlight. Would come back if I’m in the area and craving something hearty.

This place is new to me. Found on google. The price was good actually I was impressed. However cash only at this place which sucks but they do offer an atm on site if u need one. I ordered the red chile burrito it was delicious if I had to make a comment I think something went slightly wrong I could taste a bit of like a steam flavor not sure if it came from when they boiled the meat or the water they used? Anyway it wasn’t enough to ruin it in anyway foood was awesome. I need to let em know before the cashier was rude as hell young lady was mumbling and rolling her eyes and using her cell phone the whole time this Kinda ruined our 1st time experience. We were greeted by a nice lady at first but the younger lady helped us cash out was rude idk if I’ll go back. Rather take my business elsewhere.

This restaurant it's mostly a pick-up food to-go. They do have outdoor seating but no fans or coolers. It's not the safest place to be at night. The food was delicious and the service was excellent.

Had an awesome bran and cheese burrito and chips and salsa. They really nice you a lot chips even for the small size. The bean and cheese really hit the spot and great size. Definitely have to co.e back and try the other burritos.

The food was great! Loved the chilaquiles and breakfast burritos. There was so much food, so make sure you come hungry.

Not exactly cheap for a hole-in-the-wall takeout spot, but the portions are big so it kinda balances out. It's right on a busy intersection, so if you sit outside, just know it can get pretty noisy with traffic. The menu is simple and has pictures, which makes ordering super easy. We got machaca with our order and it was really tasty--definitely the highlight. Would come back if I'm in the area and craving something hearty.

Tried something new and it was great!! First time trying their tamales and it was actually really good! It had a great kick to it and I love it with the sauce. It also came with an enchilada and rice/beans (which I saved for dinner). I also order another tostada cause I love them so much. Service was great as usually, fast and quick. Would definitely reorder this again.

A lot of people like this place because of the lunch specials but I'm not a huge fan. It's cash only and the circle k doesn't give cash back. They have an ATM onsite but the fees are atrocious. As for the food, the beans are bland. The green chili was good but I've had better. All in all, it's not a place I want to go out of my way to eat at. Especially when there's better options.

This place has been around since I was a little girl. My family and I used to come here all the time. The food has been consistently good and always affordable. Some of the best, authentic, Mexican food you'll find in Arizona. It's always cooked to perfection and always so yummy. You get a lot of food for your money. They take cash only but also have an ATM for convenience of getting cash as well as circle k across the street. The parking lot is a little small but it's never packed to where you can't park. At night time there are homeless in the area so you keep your eyes open but the people who work here are so nice. They also have benches in front to sit and wait or sit and eat.

El Norteño is a solid spot to grab a cheap meal any time of day. The restaurant offers cheap specials ranging from $6.99 to $8.50. The specials depend on what day you come as some days the lunch special is a burro and other days it is a tostada or beef tacos. The rest of the menu has over twenty options so there is definitely something for everyone here. Be sure to bring cash as this restaurant doesn't accept cards. Also, there is an ATM in the covered seating area. The parking lot wraps around the building and has ways to get in from either Roosevelt or 7th. I'd recommend this place if you are looking to take your food to go but the small covered seating area is also an option. It is covered but does not have any AC so I wouldn't recommend it in the heat of the summer. Still, this is a good spot to get a lot of value out of your pocket.

I have loved their machaca tacos for decades. Last night my chili relleno meal was divine. However, my husband's cheese enchiladas were so spicy they were barely edible. The sauce was on the beans too so that was a disappointment since he loves beans and rice. Mine weren't so I thougt he was crazy until I tasted them and my mouth was on fire after one bite. Usually cheese enchiladas are the most mild item on a menu. So he'll go back to the machaca tacos and we'll be more wary of the heat factor.

Small place located on the corner of 7th Ave and Roosevelt. There is a tiny area for you to go in and place your order. They have a small sitting area outside. It's a CASH ONLY place. We stopped to order some green chili burros, red chili burros and a chili fries with meat and waited around 15-20 minutes for our order. The burros and fries were very flavorful but the meat was very fatty and made chewing unpleasant.

Yeah, you're going into a shady shack. Guess what? The more you fear, the better it tastes. That's exactly what happened here. Their $12 burritos are wonderful. It's a street taco that went inside. However, the $10 lunch specials are insane. A drink and meal is wild. The amount was ludicrous, too! I was eating for 2. Really a great value and flavor. The hatch chile is always a hit.

Good typical Sonoran style Mexican food, fast food service... the place is located on the corner of 7th Avenue and Roosevelt very busy intersection noisy has outdoor seating. I would recommend this place on the go for takeout only.

Quick service, hot food, decent portions and very authentically delicious. Ask for their red salsa to top off every menu item; it pairs perfectly with their food & made fresh daily. As of November they also sell Horchata, Jamaica and Lemonada aside from their daily soda machine. This place does have starving pigeons hanging around but anyone can eat in the gated outdoor space to be unburdened. One things for sure- they aren't stingy with their meats in the tacos. I had #10 today and I was pleasantly satisfied.

This place is no frills and just delicious. I ordered the #12, which came with an enchilada,taco and beans. My total with tax was $11.40 . When I got my food they had also either on purpose or accidentally also gave me a tostada as well. I was so uncomfortably full at the end because I couldn't stop eating. It was fresh and flavorful but nothing over the top. Just good home cooked Mexican food that they are proud of and have mastered. It comes with this delicious peppery hot salsa on the side. You need a little bit of that in each bite and it's perfect. I finished the meal off with a caramel churro. It was a little over done but nonetheless delicious. The family/employees were extremely kind. I ate outside in the gated patio area. It is a little unnerving as there is a pretty large homeless population that move between that side of the street and the other side at the circle k gas station. I love the food and vibe of this place. It is so well priced and delicious; please give them a try and your business!

Quick stop at El Norteño was an epic stop! I believe it was cash only, but there's a Circle K right across the street. The wait wasn't bad and the lady taking orders was super patient while I looked over the menu! Everything was packing flavor and the serving size was mega (and for me that just means dinner and left overs!)!! Also, it's a pick up window, but the area around isn't bad at all and it's well lit! Cheers!

Place was really good. Cash only, authentic as can be with Mexican food. It must mean something if they can stay open for this long.- with the portions being huge too.

Food is great service and price is just right and a chill outdoor seating giving a very Phoenix vibe Definitely recommend if you're looking for a breakfast burrito

The original downtown mexican spot. Delicious each and everytime. I love the consistency in the food tasting and quality. 10/10

Best Mexican food in AZ very good ! Will be back and they give great portions doesn't disappoint

This particular Mexican Food is prepared with an exquisite spicey blend with every selection on their menu!! I have tried too many mex-restaurants coming away with bland food ! My family has hired this restaurant for many many events and have never been disappointed

That are always helpful and have daily breakfast lunch and dinner special! If you like spicy try the Red Chile Burrito Enchilada Style... it has a bite to it!

I wanted so badly to give El Norteño five stars, but after having their machaca chimiganga, I got the worst stomachache of my thirty-three years of life. I sounded like I was in labor from the pain. The food was authentic, but I'm sadly questioning the cleanliness. Their chicken taco and beef tacos were delicious and piled high with ingredients. If you still do want to go, know that they are cash only, and have no bathrooms or dine-in.

I love it. Best Mexican food around. Prices are excellent, portions are well worth the price. Will definitely be ordering from there soon!

Please don't waste your money like I did $30. The food is horrible the beans have a weird taste, the chicken in the enchiladas was very dry and no flavor, I ordered a Gorditas and was given a Sopa, they should really be embarrassed I've had better food at Filabertos. I had to throw away $30 worth of horrible food.

Had the machaca plate, it was ok. I would come back to try something else. Nice staff and chill place to eat. Good size parking lot.

Great prices and great food, machaca burrito is AMAZING. Cash only .... Don't forget. They are super quick at getting food out.

This is the best Mexican restaurant in Phoenix. I applaud this business for being cash only and not falling to the pressure of all these pay apps and credit card processing companies that will blead you dry with fees. I have patronized this restaurant for 30 plus years (I used to work near them), and now I drive 12 miles out of my way for their Monday green chili burrito special. that is well worth the current price of about $8. Give them try, and you will truly be supporting a small local business !!!!!

Tamales were dry...red sauce flavorless...expected more due to the hype... price ms were great though...

I decided to try this place because Irma's Kitchen was closed for the holiday, and I had heard good things about the food. Unfortunately, my experience was disappointing. I waited over 20 minutes in the "Order Here" line, only to realize that many people were bypassing it and ordering directly at the "Pick Up Here" window. Confused, I switched lines and tried to explain the situation to the staff. Instead of offering any clarity or help, they were dismissive and rude. The whole ordering process felt chaotic and disorganized, which overshadowed any excitement I had about trying their food. If you're looking for a smooth and enjoyable experience, I'd recommend Irma's Kitchen or Old Azteca place south of Roosevelt and 7ave instead. This place might have decent food, but the disarray and poor customer service make it hard to justify the hassle. Id give them 0 stars, but yelp forces you to give them one.

I came here on my lunch break, I believe I had been here before but many many years ago. I ordered the red grande burro, they are not playing with the grande it's pretty big. It was delicious and no way I could even finish it. There is seating outside but not many tables seems more of a take your order to go, it stays pretty busy but the staff was friendly and seemed to move the line along pretty quickly. I'd definitely pop back in if I was in the area.

This little restaurant puts out some of the best Mexican food and their catering is really good. Love everything and the daily specials are a great deal. No indoor seating but a nice patio when the weather is good or just pickup and take home.

One of the best Mexican food spots on earth(yes earth). Fast service and some the fairest pricing of any restaurant of any cuisine. My favorite chilaquiles ever made. Cash only. Indoor/outdoor dining.

Food is super bland no flavor I got the lunch special taco and the carna asada buritto and I was not a fan of either one I will not be back here

Soooooo good!!! Very fair prices, comes out fast and steaming hot, perfect spice level and seasoning. Also has a cute little outdoor spot to eat your food at. Love it here and will definitely come again!

CASH ONLY restaurant with delicious Mexican food. A lot of the downtown employees converge on this location for some good'ol northern style Comfort Mexican food with a hint of Tex Mex. It's a walk up style spot with a few covered benches outside. I would argue their staple dish is the red chili Burrito enchilada style or the green one. The sauce is medium spicy but delicious. Make sure to catch their lunch specials. It's busy, but the wait isn't too bad. Happy to be a patron of a family owned local restaurant open since 1981! Definitely stop by for take out from their vast menu options.

This place has the prices of pre-pandemic Mexican food. Not only is it affordable but the food is excellent too. The outdoor seating and pickup window also adds a certain charm.

If you like good Mexican food from walk-up, cash-only corner joints, then this is your place. The tacos were crunchy, tasty and stuffed full of goodness. You might be waiting for your order in the Phoenix summer heat, so keep that in mind. But everything is really good!

Food, Service, Service all excellent... in my opinion definitely the best Mexican (take-out) food in Phoenix! You will not be disappointed.

Love this place, food is always freshly made and delicious. They deserve higher than 5 stars!

O this place is GOOD'T!!!! Highly recommend the Mexican pizza to share. It's huge! This would be the place to go for a quick lunch or to go

On the corner of 7th Ave and Roosevelt don't let the little blue bldg fool you. This place has really good reasonably priced Mexican food ! Cash only but worth a stop.

Crispy tacos and pollo fundido are bomb! Not a place you want to eat at but instead take out. Cash only.

The Arizona Burrito I got was huge and extremely delicious with fresh ingredients, it's definitely worth the 10$ it will fill you up, the cashier was nice Latina women who gave me excellent service and was extremely friendly, this a great hole in the wall spot for takeout Mexican food. Always delicious

was visiting phoenix for the first time, had no idea what to eat for lunch. however, i passed by this place 3 times and it kept calling my name. finally tried it, and the food was amazing. i had the chilaquiles and the it tasted just like my moms cooking.

It's no wonder El Norteño has been in business for over 40 years. I am still thinking about the food months later. It's that good. El Norteño is absolutely a hole in the wall establishment. It is cash only, but there is an ATM available on site. I do not know if the ATM charges extra fees though, so it's probably best to bring cash ahead of time. There is a small lot for parking. We had no issues securing a spot. Even at off hours, there were still customers. Seating is all outdoors, but there is a small roofed section you can access to stay out of the sun. A party of four is the max amount you would want to take here if you want to be able to eat comfortably all together at the same table. All the tables and chairs are not adjustable. We got the carne asada fries for dining on site. It comes topped with guacamole, sour cream, cheese, and onion. We opted for the red salsa due to rave reviews. Normally we prefer green, but their red salsa is absolutely worth trying. The carne asada was also incredible. It was so smoky and flavorful. It is the best carne asada I have gotten to try to date in Arizona. The amount was enough to satisfy my partner and me. The cashier was so thoughtful too. She noticed that my partner and I would be sharing, so she included two sets of utensils for us without us having to ask. To go for the next day, we got the #3 red chile bowl. It was so good even reheated next day! I am so picky about my beans, but El Norteño's is great. The meat again was so flavorful and smoky. The red chile does have a bit of a kick, so if you are sensitive to spicy foods, keep this in mind. I am sensitive, but was willing to power through it because it was so tasty. I would say the meat definitely makes the food here worth it. Someone in our party got a cheese enchilada only and really regretted not getting any meat. Portion sizes are also very generous. One order is definitely enough for two meals or for one very hungry person. I am so excited to get El Norteño again! Their food really has been living rent free in my head ever since I tried it.

Chimichanga not what I expected. Chicken cooked very well not dry full of flavor. Green chile, tomato, onion. The shell of the chimichanga was crisp right. The sauce for me missed the mark. It lacked flavor. Spanish rice. Was really good. Has great Spanish flavors and I love the added black pepper. Giving it a peppery flavor. Rice was fluffy and cooked perfectly. Beans was good. Had a few hard pieces. It had the traditional flavors of Mexican retried beans. Red salsa. This hot sauce is something special. I can't really describe it. What is it??? I sit and question, as I keep taking dipping my spoon in and tasting it. I want this sauce.... on everything.

This little place has become a weekly eatery to say the least! Food is always fresh and hot and there service is fast and accurate! We have never had a negative experience and we are thankful for their hard work in providing this for as long as they have! The 3 way burrito and the taco special on Wednesday is the best! The specials are decently priced and fair are available daily except for Saturday! Definitely check this place out!

It's was fine. I don't live in the area so will not be back but if I did maybe. I had the red chili burrito. There was a homeless man asking for money for food so we gave him ours

I didn't get a picture of my food but it was legit! I am from South Texas and while driving through I found this spot to eat while putting gas! I had the asada chimichanga with a side of rice and beans. Portions are huge and the food tasted great! Definitely recommend!

Not only is the food fantastic, but the staff here is awesome. Crunchy tacos here are bomb - shells are never too oily, and the toppings are always fresh & loaded. I've had both the regular shredded beef and the machca (has some like sautéed peppers & onion if I remember correctly), both are really tasty. Recently tried the chicken tacos (I usually always get shredded beef) and I would order those again. The beans & rice are consistent, always hit the spot. Their chile cheese fries make for good appetizer/shareable if you're eating with friends.

This place is a gem! I have never had a bad meal at El Norteño and I've visited quite a few times. The pollo fundido and enchiladas are personal stand outs and the prices are very reasonable as well.

I love this place! I will admit sometimes it's a bit too salty but the flavors are there! I don't come here to be healthy anyway lol. I love how they drench their burritos in sauce. They add the perfect amount of sour scream!! Their hot sauce on the side is also so good! I definitely want to try different things on their menu! This place is cash only! I liked it better when this place used circular foil plates but it looks like they use regular square plastic plates now. I will continue to come back. I also wish they would renovate the outside of their restaurant and make it more inviting. Either way this place will always be a gem in the city of Phoenix!