We had a family gathering in the back room at El Porto, and the service was terrible. It took over 30 minutes just for someone to take my drink order. For a big party, they only had one server working in the back, which makes no sense and left everyone waiting far too long. When I paid for my beverages, they never brought back my change which was about $10 and I shouldn't have to ask for money that's mine. The food itself was just okay, nothing special, and definitely could be better. Between the poor service, missing change, and disappointing food, this was an awful experience. I will not be coming back, and I won't be recommending El Porto to anyone. read more

Came to celebrate Cinco De Mayo! We were able to make a reservation since it would likely be busy on the holiday. We were seated fairly quickly and had our order taken in a few minutes. We first ordered the sampler to try a bit of everything, which was delicious. The house-made salsa and chips were another great addition. For a main course, I went for the Chicken Tamale and Taco Combo. Pretty big portions if you're not someone with a big appetite. It might be wise to go light on the appetizer or split a plate with someone! We were expecting a mariachi performance that was listed for that night, but unfortunately, they never came out! Huge bummer, but we were still able to have a good time! Overall was a great experience and I would love to come back. Great food and drinks for any occasion. I'll definitely be back when I'm craving for a spicy marg! read more

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Salad anyone? This is a perfect place for a party. I met up with two of my besties! No husb this time. There's a space outside if you'd like to invitee a large party. At night with the lights out, it's perfect. The food was tasty, I had a salad, my friend had a salmon dish and the birthday girl had a combo. We got sat quickly which was nice. We were brought water and chips immediately! There is a parking lot for this restaurant, in Pasadena that's a big plus! My friend got a yummy desert for her birthday, not sure what it was, but it tasted good. I'm coming again, either with the husb or a big party, heck even a small party, I must try their other dishes. Restroom is also clean, but tight space. But overall, it's with a taste of Yucatán! read more

I love El Portal and have been happily dining here for over 20 years. Last Saturday I went with a group of friends. I ordered, for the first time, their chile relleno. I also ordered a Modelo especial. The server asked to I wanted the larger beer schooner not the pint. I said yes. Their pints are $9, which is the going rate in Pasadena. The chile relleno plate was absolutely delicious and I cleaned the plate. While the group of friends of mine were talking our server asked if we would want more drinks. We said yes. All of us asked for separate bills which our server happily did. When I got my bill I was taken back on how much my bill was. $19 for my chile relleno, which I had no problem with, but with my so called large beer schooners it came to $56. That meant the schooners were $18.50 each. Not worth it. It did not look like there was a noticeable amount, ounce wise, more then the 16 ounce pint. This being said I will only order the pint beer glass from now on. Two pints would have been $18. read more

El Portal - Weekend Happy Hour Chicken Taquitos. $10 They were Delicioso! - Mexican Near Me - Pasadena, California

Best Mexican restaurant!! They have such a cute patio. Heather so no matter how cold it is you are warm. Waiters are so nice. They have mobile pay so once you get your check you can scan and pay. As a Previous server I can tell you this help so much the Customer as the staff. Food is amazing. they have live music as well its perfect place for a date. read more

El Portal - Amazing carne asada dish - Mexican Near Me - Pasadena, California

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The food is wonderful here, always have new chefs' specials to try that are unique. Their margaritas are amazing, the strawberry one is my go-to. The service is wonderful, everyone there is kind and makes you feel right at home. I love that this is located off the back of a beautiful shopping hall that leads down to Green Street. The only consideration would be the price and the parking lot, while they validate for the first hour, costs money as well. read more

Came here on a Friday night and they were able to seat us outside. There were heaters all around so you don't feel the 55 degrees. They also had a live walking band going around playing music, so that was very neat! They served us with complimentary salsa and chips and let us have refills! I love using the crispy chips to scoop up my food. The BF and I each ordered an entree. The food came out fairly quickly too considering how busy they were. The chili relleno tasted really fresh. Would definitely try this place again! read more

El Portal - #13 Fresh Chile Relleno, Taco & Enchilada Combo - Mexican Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Very good food (shrimp diablo), great ambiance (we sat outside). Service was a bit slower than we would have liked, but overall, we enjoyed our lunch there. read more

Cinco de Mayo always reminds me of this place. It was on that day, at this classic spot, I had one of the best dates in my life. The food was delicious, the margaritas got us talking, as two artists, the strange paintings and decor gave us lots to reflect on in our playful state of mind. It surely was a portal straight to great food, strong drinks, and beautiful memories. Can't wait to come back! read more

Pointless. I should have known when I saw that the "Mayan" salad featured gorgonzola cheese. You know, blue cheese, for which the Mayan's are famous. Much like how the Swedes are famous for their pizza. But weird inauthenticity aside, the food is boring. The shrimp gazpacho sounds nice, but it is basically the same taste as the free salsa that comes with the chips... and some shrimp. It isn't bad. It's just pointless. If I was starving would I happily eat it? Sure. Would I ever actually want it? No. Omalete was salted to the point of inedibility. But even it it wasn't saltier than the dead sea, it was boring. The grilled shrimp tostada salad was a bit better, as the shrimp was well seasoned and cooked nicely. But other than the shrimp being good, it was nothing better than a tostada from El Pollo Loco. Perhaps less. It was small, and insubstantial. And well over $20. Service is great. Atmosphere is mellow. Decor is well dated, but whatever, it is comfortable. There are weird posters about human trafficking all on the way to and in the bathrooms.... just kind of strange. I mean, if I was working in the area, and someone was BUYING lunch and wanted to go here, I would go. And I would not order the gazpacho. Or any egg product. If that helps. But I would not take anyone here. Anyone you take here is going to think less of you, I am pretty sure. And you will spend like $80 on lunch for two after tax and tip, and at $40 I would not be happy with it. You know? It isn't terrible, but it is just pointless. read more

The burritos.... They don't make them correctly. Bit into one and got a full mouth of guacamole and sour cream, no beans no meat. The rest of the burrito had the beans and meat but no sour cream and no guacamole. Can you guys remember how we eat burritos? read more

I highly recommend the mole enchiladas they were some of the best enchiladas I've had at a restaurant. The service was fast. The drink were very good. I would recommend the diablito de pina. It was so refreshing and definitely a drink you can share. The outdoor space is so nice and nicely shaded read more

El Portal - Mexican Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Great dinner and service! Don't forget to validate your parking ticket if you use the lot next door!

Is not traditional Mexican food but wasn't bad. A nice looking place and has nice decor. Americanized Mexican food. Not bad food. The service was great! read more

What a hidden gem! I had to turn on my gos to figure out how to walk around the back to enter. Which makes it so charming and quiet! Amazing fresh food and plentiful size plate. read more

A few weeks back some co-workers of mine and I were celebrating a couple birthdays. We originally had wanted to eat at Nine & Nine Kitchen (Thai), but somehow they were closed for lunch. Hmmm? Anyway, we went over to Janejira Bistro (Thai), but they couldn't accommodate 10 people at the time and there was some wait. Hence, we headed over here to El Portal (Mexican) which I have never eaten at until now. Perfect! Another opportunity to do a Yelp review LOL. We were seated at their outside patio dining which had a really nice ambiance and setup. Love the colorful umbrellas! Luckily, weather wasn't too warm, but it wasn't too cool either. We made it through LOL. Anyway, I ordered the Seafood Fajitas that came out on a sizzling plate with rice and beans plus guacamole and salsa along with 3 flour tortillas. Shrimps (my favorite) were of decent size (could be bigger though LOL), now filet fish was huge (the way I like it), and big scallops weren't too shabby... overall good flavors and taste! Grilled veggies were tasty, too. Rice was light and fluffy. Beans were light and smooth. Great combination! Only gripe is the price... isn't it always LOL... a whopping $27.00! It's all good. Staff was pleasant and attentive. Service was good. I didn't get a chance to check out the inside so I'll have to make another visit just to see the inside LOL. You know I would! I hear this place looks really romantic in the evening. Maybe I'll bring a date next time LOL. Thank you El Portal! read more

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I grew up eating Yucatecan cuisine and this place reminds me of my childhood. Don't be afraid of trying the Yucatecan specials they are delicious. I've tried all of them and they all get a 5-star rating. The black beans and black bean soup that come with the dinners are so so good! This restaurant has been around for many years and I hope people continue to come and enjoy some of their Yucatecan Mexican food. read more

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They validate for the adjacent lot but you can try to park on the street: Free on Sundays and 1hr otherwise. Good selection of Mexican favorites! We came for brunch. I got chilaquiles and the diabolita drink (pineapple Jarritos). Very filling. read more

El Portal - Exterior - Mexican Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Been coming to this restaurant for about 20 years, and it's always been top notch with excellent food, service and atmosphere. However, came here last night and it was not up to par. The outdoor atmosphere was nice, as always. The service was good. The food was marginal. I had the chicken fajita tostada salad, which I've now concluded is a bad idea to begin with: pouring hot meat and meat sauce/juices over chilled lettuce just does not turn out well. After the hot meat and juices melted the cheese and wilted the lettuce, I ended up with a soggy pile of mush that was just not very appetizing. Also , the chicken fajitas had an overwhelming bitter taste of lemon or lime, (or maybe even vinegar?) so that was not good. My husband ordered the beef fajitas which he said the meat was dry & did not have much flavor. Uncharacteristically, he did not finish his meal. I am unsure what our friend ordered, I think it was some type of pork, but he pushed his away also stating that it was not flavorful and was way too salty. None of us finished our meals; all were disappointed with the food, as it has always been good in the past for us. This time the best part of the meal was the outdoor atmosphere and the live music. The music was worth a $60 tip to us, unfortunately the food was not. The only reason I gave this a 3 star rating is because of our prior visits there. Otherwise it would've been a 4 or 5 star. Sadly, last nights visit was a 1 star. read more

Came here for the fajitas...and the Chips ! Mama Mia!!! Don't do what I did ... walk in at 8:27pm on a Tuesday... they close in 3 min! My bad But still .. we sat and ordered the fajitas... Morena did right by us and STILL came and refilled all our drinks... Madre de Dios... Damn that Fajita was excelente...no... better....has I ever tried ... The Chips and Salsa are next level... Ay DIOS MÍO read more

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I was with three others for dinner and the service was friendly and fast. I ordered the grilled chicken and avocado salad and it was very fresh and tasty. I wish I could say the same about my Dulce Vida Cadillac margarita. It tasted like lemonade with absolutely no hint of tequila. A friend I was with felt the same about his sangria, no hint of wine. Overall, no one was blown away by their food or drinks, so we won't be back any time soon. read more

It has been about 8 years since I've been here. I used to go regularly but life got in the way. I always loved it. I was not disappointed upon my return. They greeted my friend and I so kindly. I think it was the owner who seated us. The blood orange margarita was so refreshing and tasty. The food was excellent-chicken enchiladas suiza. Such attentive service and a great space. I will return again soon! read more

We had a big party and wanted to find dinner close to The Blinn House for a meeting. El Portal fit the bill. It might not be easy to find. But you can get to the restaurant from Colorado or Green. It's in an Arcade. I had the shrimp & spinach enchiladas. They were delish! Everyone seemed to enjoy their meals. It was kinda expensive. $32 for one person with tax & tip. read more

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This is by far my favorite Mexican restaurant in SGV! I've been coming here for the past 15+ years and have always had a great experience each time. I'm so glad to see that they keep expanding their area over the years too! They have a great outside patio that is great for large parties and their service is always great no matter how big or small your party size is. They also have a live band on the weekends as an extra treat! They have a parking lot but I'm not sure when they have valet service is there and when it's free parking. If they have valet service, you can still find free 1 hour street parking pretty easily around the block. Their specialty dishes are their Yucatán dishes. The mole sauce is so delicious! I also really enjoy any of their combination dishes. Never been disappointed with any item I've tried! My kids also love their rice. Their blended margaritas are my favorite drinks, either strawberry or mango is very yummy. read more

El Portal - #18 Two Flautas with Flour Tortillas Combo - Mexican Near Me - Pasadena, California

This place is like stepping through a "portal" into Mexico. That establishment was beautiful, owners interior design is The food was delicious and will definitely be coming back. Well deserved 5 Stars. read more

El Portal - Carne asada plate - Mexican Near Me - Pasadena, California

Delicious food, great atmosphere. They have live music. A bit pricey but when the food is good I don't mind. Service was a little slow considering they were closing soon but really nothing to complain about read more

El Portal - Blood orange margarita - Mexican Near Me - Pasadena, California

I recently went vegan and was concerned I wouldn't find something that wasn't drenched in cheese and still tasted delicious. I knew from my first bite of salsa, this was legit. We celebrated a birthday. They brought extra desert with a candle and sang. My veggie tostada without cheese was incredible! I ate every bit down to the shell. What genius put pickled onion and carrots in this salad. The patio was too loud for my guest so we sat inside and the atmosphere was so nice. We could see the band and enjoy our conversation. Highly recommend. read more

Although it's busy I've always found it easy to be seated. I enjoy sitting at the bar where there's a lot of action to see. Service over in this area is great. I've also sat in the booth outside, which are lovely year-round. The chicken and beef enchiladas are excellent. Also, the pictures of margaritas are just the right size for two people. read more

The food was delicious, the service was top notch & the vibes/ambiance was really good. Definitely coming back. A must try.

Came here to celebrate my birthday with my family. There were 8 of us and everyone enjoyed their meal and had a great time. Server was kind, helpful and funny. She constantly came to our table to refill our drinks. I had the mole enchiladas, it was really good. I don't really like enchiladas but the mole enchiladas caught my attention. It did not disappoint. The place is really nice indoors and outdoors. Everyone was super friendly, I would come back. Maybe on a summer night and enjoy a meal out on the patio. There's plenty of parking in front of the restaurant as well as street parking. As far as prices, it leans on the pricier side but to me, it's worth it. The surrounding area is really nice as well. read more

El Portal - Mole enchiladas - Mexican Near Me - Pasadena, California

The other reviewers are totally correct with overpriced. What usually costs $50 check for two people and similar restaurants in the area was over $100. It tastes good, but not worth that bill. I think what's worse is over time as the prices have gone up the quality and portions have gone down. I know it's a well liked restaurant in the area but for the food and the service it's not worth the money. read more

Food was okay. I had liked it before but it may be the day or the choice we made. Ambiance is BEAUTIFUL. I do want to shout out Brian, he was extremely helpful, kind and generous. Outstanding service. Thanks Brian! read more

Had lunch here with a friend last week. Very impressed. 1. I had a delicious, generously sized, and not typical chicken salad. (Ensalada Maya.) 2. Service was prompt and friendly. 3. Unusually excellent patio seating (quiet, not on major street, well shaded, very comfortable seats, etc.). 4. Prices are not cheap, but reasonable for the great value. Complementary chips and salsa, too. Can't always count on this in Mexican restaurants today. I will go to El Portal again and again. read more

I have been a long term customer. I am disabled now and come in a wheelchair or rollator. There are only high top tables or high barstools in the bar which is the ONLY seating for the happy hour menu. So because I am disabled, I have to pay double what those who are able to sit on high stools pay. Clear violation of ADA. Also, the restaurant is deserted during Happy Hour and most other times. The regular prices are now higher than upscale restaurants. This place appears to be going down and needs to be cited for this ADA violation. In fact, the majority of their customers are elderly, many disabled so this needless policy does not serve those who actually dine there on a regular basis. Shame on you, El Portal. read more

The chef and his team make the most outstanding food! I got to try what resembled a chile rilleno, but it wasn't filled with the usual cheese. This had a complex filling with plantains, ground beef, carrots, onions, etc. It was seriously a party in your mouth. The pomegranate topping was a burst of happiness! The Spanish rice and beans were rock solid. Service by the whole team was amazing! read more

El Portal - Tonight's Special Chile Rilleno! - Mexican Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Super weak cocktails, food was whatever, not the best service, expensive for absolutely no reason. Lots of better mexican food out there. Don't waste your time. read more

After a delightful shopping excursion, Te-See B & I decided we needed a refreshing cocktail to cool off from the heat. Our first choice was closed for a private event, so I suggested El Portal since it was within walking distance. I've been to El Portal several times in the past and always enjoyed it. The restaurant is hidden off the beaten path in a cute brick lined shopping complex called Arcade Lane. The courtyard is so charming we decided to sit out there instead of inside. I typically order the Skinny Margarita, but the Watermelon Margarita caught my attention and Te-See's too, so we both ordered it. It was absolutely delicious! Made with fresh watermelon - it was a nice balance of tart & sweet with bits of fresh watermelon. The chips were hot & fresh and the salsa was tasty. The bartender was very friendly and courteous. He checked on us frequently even though we were sitting outside. *Happy Hour (3 pm - 5 pm) bar area only * Extensive menu featuring Yucatan specialties and vegetarian/vegan options. * 1 hour validated parking (cash only). Entrance on Green St. Or street parking. read more

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This hidden Mexican restaurant has the best freshly squeezed "watermelon" margaritas Eva!!!! So delicious with small chunks of watermelon throughout my drink! The location reminded me of the French Quarters in Woodland Hills. It was a hot afternoon shopping in Pasadena with Nikki B and our first choice was closed for a private event. Nikki suggested we go here and I am glad she did! Our server brought us hot tortilla chips that were nice and crunchy. The fresh salsa had a nice bite without being too hot for this girl. Looking forward to returning for a full meal. -Plenty of free parking in the lot behind the restaurant. -they do have a "happy hour" inside the bar only (Not at the tables) -the margarita chica is a good size for $12 read more

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This is my third time here and it just gets better and better, the service is very good and the food was excellent, and the drinks were great , what more can one ask for... read more

People are friendly and food is usually good. They can be busy in evenings and for lunch so def be aware of that.