El Molinito

Mexican Restaurant $ 4.1 (1638)


El Molinito is a beloved establishment known for its warm atmosphere and a diverse menu of Mexican cuisine that some customers feel authentically represents traditional flavors. Although the quality of service can be inconsistent, particularly during busy periods, many patrons still appreciate the down-home feel and generous portions. The general consensus highlights the restaurant's commitment to providing an enjoyable dining experience.

Overall:

4.2

(1322 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.5

Atmosphere:

4.1

Service:

3.9


Restaurant website: Website

Phone number: (520) 747-9162

Address: 5380 E 22nd St, Tucson, AZ 85711, USA

Opening hours

Monday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Photo gallery

Service options

  • Dine-In Available
  • Takeout Available
  • Delivery Available
  • Reservable

Offerings

  • Breakfast
  • Brunch
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Beer
  • Wine
  • Cocktails
  • Dessert
  • Coffee

Amenities

  • Restroom Available

Good for

  • Menu for Children
  • Good for Children
  • Good for Groups

Payment options

  • Credit Cards
  • Debit Cards
  • NFC Payments

Parking options

  • Free Parking Lot
  • Free Street Parking

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair Accessible Parking
  • Wheelchair Accessible Entrance
  • Wheelchair Accessible Restroom
  • Wheelchair Accessible Seating

Top Recent and Curated Reviews (10)

**Some reviews are curated to assist in analyzing authenticity, atmosphere, and service. These reviews enhance user feedback and help us provide better insights. Your genuine reviews make all the difference—share your experience today to enhance our ratings!**

" Had a lovely experience at El Molinito last night! The chicken enchiladas were delicious, tender, and covered in a rich sauce that had the right amount of heat. The portions were generous, ensuring I had leftovers for lunch today! The only downside was that it got a bit noisy as more people came in, but the ambiance remained welcoming despite the noise. Our waitress was attentive, making sure our drinks were never empty. I left content and wanting to return soon. Definitely one of the better options for Mexican cuisine around here. " (*Curated Review*)

" My first visit here, and overall it wasn’t bad. The food was decent—not the best, but certainly not the worst either. The atmosphere was pleasant, and I liked the aesthetics of the restaurant. My order of burritos was relatively bland, which was disheartening given the amount of hype around this place. The service was on point which kept my overall experience positive. I might give this place another shot since I’m hoping it could be an off day for the kitchen. " (*Curated Review*)

" Fantastic experience overall! The moment we stepped in, I felt the vibrant energy of this place—definitely a favorite for locals. I ordered a spicy shrimp taco, and it took my taste buds on an adventure! The variety and complexity of flavors were incredible, and the portion sizes were commendable as well! It’s clear the staff is dedicated to service, as all our needs were promptly met. I’m beyond excited to come back for another meal at El Molinito! " (*Curated Review*)

" El Molinito has been a staple for my family for years. We keep coming back for their taco specials, which are an excellent deal. The flavors are predominantly authentic, and they manage to serve classic dishes that remind me of home. The service is great and the staff are friendly, although there can be times when they could be more attentive, especially on busy nights. The ambiance has a homey feel that adds to the experience. Overall, it remains one of my favorite places to enjoy Mexican food. " (*Curated Review*)

" Every time I come to El Molinito, it feels like I’m visiting family. The atmosphere is cozy, and the servers treat you like old friends. Their refried beans are the best I’ve ever had, and I’m a huge fan of their beef burritos! The sizes are generous, making it great value for your money. I’ve tried many items on the menu, and I’m always impressed by the freshness and authenticity of each dish. If you’re in the area, make this place a priority! You won’t regret it. " (*Curated Review*)

Archived Reviews (1312)

" Absolutely loved dining at El Molinito! Each dish we ordered had a distinct flavor that undeniably evoked feelings of Mexico. The service staff was friendly and attentive, ensuring our drinks were always filled. I specifically enjoyed the fajitas—tender and flavorful, definitely a highlight! The atmosphere was lively but not overwhelming, making it a perfect spot for a casual family dinner. Not to mention, the prices are very reasonable for the quality provided. I can't wait for another visit! " (*Curated Review*)

" Sadly, my experience did not live up to expectations. The restaurant appeared to be in a disheveled state—it was unclean, and there was a faint odor that I couldn’t shake off. My order took longer than expected, and when the food arrived, it felt kind of lukewarm and bland—something was definitely off. The only positive was our waitress who remained cheerful and apologetic throughout our ordeal. I was disappointed, especially since I had heard so much good about this place over the years. I’m not sure if I would return. " (*Curated Review*)

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