Went just after 12pm, not overly busy or dead inside either. The complimentary chips w/ salsa and bean dip were great, with very prompt service when our water glasses and chips were getting low. Food took about only 8 minutes to arrive, thats not bad at all. Staff didn't say much, but we were taken care of in a timely matter. I had the Carne Asada burrito, it was very good and well cooked, and loaded with toppings. I enjoyed it and would eat here again.
(4)
Robert G.
I peeked. That's ok. It doesn't change my opinion and the stars I've assigned. I didn't see any 3 star ratings for El Tapatio in St. Helen's, off of US 30 en route to and from Astoria. I'm going with 4 stars and will explain my rationale. I have seen this name across the Portland metro - on McLoughlin, on SE 82nd, and so on, so it's obvious it's a local chain. That part sort of turned me off. However, I liked the name "el tapatio." I still don't know what "tapatio" means. Perhaps it harkens favorably to a (past tense) small hole in the wall Mexican restaurant in Ventura County, California named "El Tecolote" (the owl) which didn't look like much but had amazing and abundant food. They got on my good side right away. I was seated immediately, and where I wanted to sit. The chips and salsa arrived promptly. I have to add that both salsa and bean dip were brought to the table. The flavor of the salsa was just right. The appearance of the bean dip to make for some variety was appreciated. The food arrived quickly. The combination platter was the right temperature. The beans and rice were both flavorful. The other two items were a burrito and an enchilada. They were good but tasted a little interchangeable. I'm taking off a point because the burrito was essentially an oversized enchilada and the ends weren't folded in as has been the case with practically every burrito I've ever eaten. My thought is that, if Paco's Tacos of Grass Valley, CA which is apparently run by WASPs can dial in on a stunning burrito, so can El Tapatio. That is my only gripe with this dining experience. Abundant food, good prices, and polite service call for 4 stars for this particular El Tapatio in St. Helens, OR. Thus far, it is the only one in the greater Portland area I have visited.
(4)
Harley J.
Well, I very much enjoyed excellent service and a giant portion of super nachos, and every chip had company! Good price, good service, good food. Good deal.
(5)
Stephanie L.
The food is so so and the service is terrible. There is one lady in particular that is pretty rude to young kids. I never eat here anymore. Waste of money. If you want good Mexican food close by, go to Ixtapa in Scappoose.
(2)
Tiffany M.
This is just based off of today. We normally have no issues here, but when we showed up we waited 10 minutes and all nobody was at the front to seat is. We grabbed menus and day ourselves. My husband went and found someone to let them know we were waiting, and the waitress said you weren't waiting ten minutes, then asked what we wanted to order. Umm we just sat down. We decided to go somewhere else. Hopefully this doesn't happen often.
(2)
Jake D.
The food was okay for standard Mexican fare and would have gotten a 3 star rating if we wouldn't have had the dessert. We ordered the the sopapilla thinking it would be this awesome pastry with honey and sugar that we are used to. What we ended up getting was something that looked like a fried tortilla with whipped cream, chocolate, and sprinkles on top. It might have been something that a 5 year old would concoct if given free reign to do so - highly disappointing. If you want okay Mexican food then this place is okay. If you want good sopapillas then forget about it.
(2)
Jim W.
Three stars if it weren't for the service. I wish I could rate food and service separately. This review is for a visit the end of August. Chips and salsa are solid. Our food was pretty good - but the service sucked. The lady at the front was not pleasant - almost made us feel like we were an inconvenience. She had family sitting at a table and was visiting with them - perhaps we pulled her away from her personal time. When we hadn't been waited on - she took our order - didn't speak english well and wasn't helpful with questions on the menu. She went back to the kitchen and yelled at folks - LOUDLY ... finally someone else came out and served us the rest of the meal time - I'm guessing she was on break but was pleasant. As I said - our food was great. I went back last week for dinner. Sat in the cantina area. Someone promptly brought me water, salsa and chips. 20 minutes - and no additional staff came through to take my order. I can't believe I waited that long. I left a buck for the chips and walked out. I won't bother them again with my presence. FAIL.
(1)
Lynn M.
Some of the BEST guacomole I've had... made at the table and good portions. Stopped in for a late lunch and had beef nachos and guacomole along with one of the best Margaritas I've had. I live in Seattle but will make a stop by the next time I'm in St. Helen's..
(5)
Winnie F.
AMAZING FOOD! Friendly staff, pretty authentic stuff. Looking for traditional Mexican food? Here is the place. Fresh chips, fresh salsa...yummy! They also have a daily special that runs about $5-$8, cheaper than their normal plates. Honestly though, their normal plates are so huge that you can pack some home and save it for seconds. Must go if you are in the area!
(5)
Jamie P.
One of my favorite places to go for a meal in St. Helens. Great service and drinks. This is my go to meeting place for friends.
(5)
Adam M.
My new favorite Mexican food restaurant in Washington. Food is hot not just the plate, beans had flavor...salsa is decent, chips are warm service is above standard. I just wish I lived closer.
(4)
Marna G.
Can you say - Fresh Guacamole made tableside? After that it's all a haze because I was in a food coma due to the party in my mouth! We love this place and love it's sister restaurant Rainier, Oregon right along the river. What's not to love, the food is fresh, the carne asada, grilled mushrooms, and onions are fabulous! I love their black beans, as well as the flan. mmmmmmmmmmmmmm The price won't kill you either!
(5)
Conrad B.
If I had to sum it up, it's like a more inexpensive better version of Chevy's. Not sure I'd ever end up here if it were in a big city, but it's a good stopping point during a drive. Salsa is definitely made in house, portions are gigantic, service is attentive. If I lived in a small town like Saint Helens, I'd come here often. It may not be the most Mexican food ever, but this is serious comfort food done pretty well! We shared steak fajitas + carnitas plate. Enough food for about 4 people.
(4)
Ann G.
I went to this restaurant for the fist time recently with guests from out of town. The food was very good, as were the margaritas! The waiter was friendly and helpful without hovering. We finished our meal but sat around visiting after without be pressured. Great dining experience all a round.
(4)
Lauren A.
What a fantastic place to stumble upon! The enchilada, taco, black beans, rice, it was all so tasty! A tiny bit on the salty side, but that's probably just because I so rarely put it in my food. The service was excellent, and our food showed up rapidly. I dare say this is the best Mexican food I've had outside of California. :-) Thank you El Tapatio!
(5)
Kelly R.
Margeritas good, sangria good........service really bad on a Thursday in May evening...food not good at all. Went into the cantina and there was a birthday party (for 15 or so) w screaming kids...cripes. Saw two tables sit down bear us and leave after NO one even acknowledged them after 10 minutes. We will not be back!
(2)
Diem L.
I hide high hopes for this place as there were great reviews. I tried the spot out when I had a 2 hour lunch so I wouldn't necessarily judge the place on service but more on the food...I was not thrilled...I had the camarones chipotle plate but it was not any good...The shrimp was not seasoned...The chipotle sauce was a creamy sauce that had no flavor and just made the shrimp taste worst...The rice was dry...I had leftovers but did not even want to bother taking it with me as I just simply did not enjoy it...
(2)
Ed J.
Maybe not the best mexican food in the world, but definately the best mexican food you are going to find along Highway 30 between Portland and Astoria. The staff is friendly and service is usually quick. Prices are not unreasonable. Table side guacamole is a great appetizer.
(4)
Trisha K.
Horrible service and the staff was a little to family oriented when our waitress changed a poopy diaper on a table right in front of us to busy talking with her group then to take our order or refresh drinks, never going back
(1)
Russell B.
Love this place. Always eat here when I'm in St Helen's. definitely get the table side guacamole. Really great.
(4)
Jon B.
Good.food, great service, reasonable, I only wish they had dos Equis or some tasty beer on tap
(4)
Mark F.
This was my favorite restaurant when I lived in St. Helens. Having moved here from PHX, AZ, this place made the transition to life in OR a lot easier. The food was always awesome, the service was alsways great, and I ALWAYS left full. What's not to love?
(5)
Dolly E.
Stopped in for lunch on a week day... ordered the shreded beef enchillada. It was great! Salsa was fresh and delicious. Can't ask for a better meal for under $10.
(4)
kirk l.
Had lunch here today, it was fantastic! The Carne Asada, was the best I have ever had, also the beans and rice are very flavorful. The restaurant was very clean, and the service was very friendly. I definetly recomend this restaurant.
(5)
Todd P.
There was quite a bit on the plate, but it just didnt taste all that great. It didn't taste bad, but neither did I want to keep shoveling it in. We all agreed that the ground beef was very salty. I felt that the rest of it was bland. Maybe thats why they poured most of a shaker into the meat bucket, in an attempt to compensate for the terribly tasteless tortillas. One of my friends ended up with some sort of paper lid in her food. They said it was from the sour cream tube. Ok, so it might not have been as gross as it could have been, but doesnt that demonstrate a carelessness that one would not, in general practice, want to see in a kitchen? What else might fall into the sour cream unnoticed? Ug, I shouldnt start thinking that way, or It'll turn my stomach. The boogers, hair, and skin that we all must be eating every time. Ug, I say. Ug.
(2)
Sorry, we don't have Q&A for this restaurant.
Sorry, No Coupons available for this restaurant.
Address :2105 Columbia Blvd
Saint Helens, OR, 97051
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes
If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.
Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.
Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.
Joe K.
Went just after 12pm, not overly busy or dead inside either. The complimentary chips w/ salsa and bean dip were great, with very prompt service when our water glasses and chips were getting low. Food took about only 8 minutes to arrive, thats not bad at all. Staff didn't say much, but we were taken care of in a timely matter. I had the Carne Asada burrito, it was very good and well cooked, and loaded with toppings. I enjoyed it and would eat here again.
(4)Robert G.
I peeked. That's ok. It doesn't change my opinion and the stars I've assigned. I didn't see any 3 star ratings for El Tapatio in St. Helen's, off of US 30 en route to and from Astoria. I'm going with 4 stars and will explain my rationale. I have seen this name across the Portland metro - on McLoughlin, on SE 82nd, and so on, so it's obvious it's a local chain. That part sort of turned me off. However, I liked the name "el tapatio." I still don't know what "tapatio" means. Perhaps it harkens favorably to a (past tense) small hole in the wall Mexican restaurant in Ventura County, California named "El Tecolote" (the owl) which didn't look like much but had amazing and abundant food. They got on my good side right away. I was seated immediately, and where I wanted to sit. The chips and salsa arrived promptly. I have to add that both salsa and bean dip were brought to the table. The flavor of the salsa was just right. The appearance of the bean dip to make for some variety was appreciated. The food arrived quickly. The combination platter was the right temperature. The beans and rice were both flavorful. The other two items were a burrito and an enchilada. They were good but tasted a little interchangeable. I'm taking off a point because the burrito was essentially an oversized enchilada and the ends weren't folded in as has been the case with practically every burrito I've ever eaten. My thought is that, if Paco's Tacos of Grass Valley, CA which is apparently run by WASPs can dial in on a stunning burrito, so can El Tapatio. That is my only gripe with this dining experience. Abundant food, good prices, and polite service call for 4 stars for this particular El Tapatio in St. Helens, OR. Thus far, it is the only one in the greater Portland area I have visited.
(4)Harley J.
Well, I very much enjoyed excellent service and a giant portion of super nachos, and every chip had company! Good price, good service, good food. Good deal.
(5)Stephanie L.
The food is so so and the service is terrible. There is one lady in particular that is pretty rude to young kids. I never eat here anymore. Waste of money. If you want good Mexican food close by, go to Ixtapa in Scappoose.
(2)Tiffany M.
This is just based off of today. We normally have no issues here, but when we showed up we waited 10 minutes and all nobody was at the front to seat is. We grabbed menus and day ourselves. My husband went and found someone to let them know we were waiting, and the waitress said you weren't waiting ten minutes, then asked what we wanted to order. Umm we just sat down. We decided to go somewhere else. Hopefully this doesn't happen often.
(2)Jake D.
The food was okay for standard Mexican fare and would have gotten a 3 star rating if we wouldn't have had the dessert. We ordered the the sopapilla thinking it would be this awesome pastry with honey and sugar that we are used to. What we ended up getting was something that looked like a fried tortilla with whipped cream, chocolate, and sprinkles on top. It might have been something that a 5 year old would concoct if given free reign to do so - highly disappointing. If you want okay Mexican food then this place is okay. If you want good sopapillas then forget about it.
(2)Jim W.
Three stars if it weren't for the service. I wish I could rate food and service separately. This review is for a visit the end of August. Chips and salsa are solid. Our food was pretty good - but the service sucked. The lady at the front was not pleasant - almost made us feel like we were an inconvenience. She had family sitting at a table and was visiting with them - perhaps we pulled her away from her personal time. When we hadn't been waited on - she took our order - didn't speak english well and wasn't helpful with questions on the menu. She went back to the kitchen and yelled at folks - LOUDLY ... finally someone else came out and served us the rest of the meal time - I'm guessing she was on break but was pleasant. As I said - our food was great. I went back last week for dinner. Sat in the cantina area. Someone promptly brought me water, salsa and chips. 20 minutes - and no additional staff came through to take my order. I can't believe I waited that long. I left a buck for the chips and walked out. I won't bother them again with my presence. FAIL.
(1)Lynn M.
Some of the BEST guacomole I've had... made at the table and good portions. Stopped in for a late lunch and had beef nachos and guacomole along with one of the best Margaritas I've had. I live in Seattle but will make a stop by the next time I'm in St. Helen's..
(5)Winnie F.
AMAZING FOOD! Friendly staff, pretty authentic stuff. Looking for traditional Mexican food? Here is the place. Fresh chips, fresh salsa...yummy! They also have a daily special that runs about $5-$8, cheaper than their normal plates. Honestly though, their normal plates are so huge that you can pack some home and save it for seconds. Must go if you are in the area!
(5)Jamie P.
One of my favorite places to go for a meal in St. Helens. Great service and drinks. This is my go to meeting place for friends.
(5)Adam M.
My new favorite Mexican food restaurant in Washington. Food is hot not just the plate, beans had flavor...salsa is decent, chips are warm service is above standard. I just wish I lived closer.
(4)Marna G.
Can you say - Fresh Guacamole made tableside? After that it's all a haze because I was in a food coma due to the party in my mouth! We love this place and love it's sister restaurant Rainier, Oregon right along the river. What's not to love, the food is fresh, the carne asada, grilled mushrooms, and onions are fabulous! I love their black beans, as well as the flan. mmmmmmmmmmmmmm The price won't kill you either!
(5)Conrad B.
If I had to sum it up, it's like a more inexpensive better version of Chevy's. Not sure I'd ever end up here if it were in a big city, but it's a good stopping point during a drive. Salsa is definitely made in house, portions are gigantic, service is attentive. If I lived in a small town like Saint Helens, I'd come here often. It may not be the most Mexican food ever, but this is serious comfort food done pretty well! We shared steak fajitas + carnitas plate. Enough food for about 4 people.
(4)Ann G.
I went to this restaurant for the fist time recently with guests from out of town. The food was very good, as were the margaritas! The waiter was friendly and helpful without hovering. We finished our meal but sat around visiting after without be pressured. Great dining experience all a round.
(4)Lauren A.
What a fantastic place to stumble upon! The enchilada, taco, black beans, rice, it was all so tasty! A tiny bit on the salty side, but that's probably just because I so rarely put it in my food. The service was excellent, and our food showed up rapidly. I dare say this is the best Mexican food I've had outside of California. :-) Thank you El Tapatio!
(5)Kelly R.
Margeritas good, sangria good........service really bad on a Thursday in May evening...food not good at all. Went into the cantina and there was a birthday party (for 15 or so) w screaming kids...cripes. Saw two tables sit down bear us and leave after NO one even acknowledged them after 10 minutes. We will not be back!
(2)Diem L.
I hide high hopes for this place as there were great reviews. I tried the spot out when I had a 2 hour lunch so I wouldn't necessarily judge the place on service but more on the food...I was not thrilled...I had the camarones chipotle plate but it was not any good...The shrimp was not seasoned...The chipotle sauce was a creamy sauce that had no flavor and just made the shrimp taste worst...The rice was dry...I had leftovers but did not even want to bother taking it with me as I just simply did not enjoy it...
(2)Ed J.
Maybe not the best mexican food in the world, but definately the best mexican food you are going to find along Highway 30 between Portland and Astoria. The staff is friendly and service is usually quick. Prices are not unreasonable. Table side guacamole is a great appetizer.
(4)Trisha K.
Horrible service and the staff was a little to family oriented when our waitress changed a poopy diaper on a table right in front of us to busy talking with her group then to take our order or refresh drinks, never going back
(1)Russell B.
Love this place. Always eat here when I'm in St Helen's. definitely get the table side guacamole. Really great.
(4)Jon B.
Good.food, great service, reasonable, I only wish they had dos Equis or some tasty beer on tap
(4)Mark F.
This was my favorite restaurant when I lived in St. Helens. Having moved here from PHX, AZ, this place made the transition to life in OR a lot easier. The food was always awesome, the service was alsways great, and I ALWAYS left full. What's not to love?
(5)Dolly E.
Stopped in for lunch on a week day... ordered the shreded beef enchillada. It was great! Salsa was fresh and delicious. Can't ask for a better meal for under $10.
(4)kirk l.
Had lunch here today, it was fantastic! The Carne Asada, was the best I have ever had, also the beans and rice are very flavorful. The restaurant was very clean, and the service was very friendly. I definetly recomend this restaurant.
(5)Todd P.
There was quite a bit on the plate, but it just didnt taste all that great. It didn't taste bad, but neither did I want to keep shoveling it in. We all agreed that the ground beef was very salty. I felt that the rest of it was bland. Maybe thats why they poured most of a shaker into the meat bucket, in an attempt to compensate for the terribly tasteless tortillas. One of my friends ended up with some sort of paper lid in her food. They said it was from the sour cream tube. Ok, so it might not have been as gross as it could have been, but doesnt that demonstrate a carelessness that one would not, in general practice, want to see in a kitchen? What else might fall into the sour cream unnoticed? Ug, I shouldnt start thinking that way, or It'll turn my stomach. The boogers, hair, and skin that we all must be eating every time. Ug, I say. Ug.
(2)