El Modelo Mexican Food has served its community for years with consistent recipes, and a clear look at the El Modelo Mexican Food Menu with Prices shows how affordable their tamales, burritos, and combination plates remain. If your planing a quick lunch or a family dinner, knowing the prices ahead of time helps you budget without surprises.
This guide breaks down the menu by category. You will see typical prices, portion sizes, and the best values. Prices can vary a little by location, so treat these numbers as close estimates.
What To Expect From The El Modelo Mexican Food Menu
El Modelo keeps things simple. The kitchen focuses on classic Sonoran and Tex-Mex style dishes. Most items come with rice, beans, or both.
- Tamales sold by the dozen or half dozen
- Burritos in regular and large sizes
- Combination plates with two or three items
- Breakfast options served early
- Sides like chips, salsa, and guacamole
You order at the counter at most locations. Seating is casual, and takeout is popular.
El Modelo Mexican Food Menu With Prices
Here is a practical price breakdown. Numbers reflect average menu pricing across their main locations.
Tamales And By The Dozen
- Single tamale: $2.50 to $3.25
- Half dozen tamales: $14.00 to $17.00
- Dozen tamales: $26.00 to $32.00
- Tamale plate with rice and beans: $9.50 to $11.50
Tamales are the top seller. Pork and chicken are the standard choices. Red chile and green chile versions cost the same.
Burritos And Tacos
- Bean burrito: $4.25 to $5.50
- Meat burrito: $6.50 to $8.25
- Smothered burrito: $8.75 to $10.50
- Street taco: $2.25 to $3.00
- Taco plate with rice and beans: $9.00 to $10.75
A regular burrito is enough for one person. The smothered version is heavier and works as a full meal.
Combination Plates
- Two-item combo: $10.50 to $12.25
- Three-item combo: $12.75 to $14.50
- Enchilada plate: $10.00 to $11.75
- Chile relleno plate: $11.00 to $12.50
- Fajita plate: $14.00 to $16.50
Combination plates give you the best value. You pick items like a taco, enchilada, tamale, or chile relleno.
Breakfast Menu Prices
- Breakfast burrito: $5.75 to $7.50
- Huevos rancheros: $9.25 to $10.75
- Chilaquiles: $9.50 to $11.00
- Breakfast combo: $10.00 to $12.00
Breakfast runs until late morning at most spots. Coffee and horchata are extra.
Sides Drinks And Extras
- Chips and salsa: $3.00 to $4.25
- Guacamole: $4.50 to $6.00
- Rice or beans: $2.50 to $3.50
- Soft drink: $2.25 to $2.75
- Horchata or jamaica: $3.00 to $3.75
How To Order And Save Money
Follow these steps to get more food for less.
- Check the daily specials board first. It often beats the regular menu price.
- Buy tamales by the dozen if you have a group. The per-unit price drops a lot.
- Pick a two-item combo instead of two separate plates.
- Ask for water instead of soda to cut the bill.
- Order takeout if you want to skip tip and drink costs.
Lunch prices are usually lower than dinner prices at some locations. Call ahead to confirm your local store hours and current pricing.
Why The Prices Stay Reasonable
El Modelo runs a high-volume kitchen. That keeps ingredient costs down. The menu has not changed much over the years, so regulars know exactly what they will pay.
Portions are generous. A three-item combo can feed a hungry adult with leftovers. Tamales freeze well, so a dozen lasts for several meals.
Overall, the El Modelo Mexican Food Menu with Prices stays friendly to your wallet. Expect to spend about $10 to $15 per person for a full meal. That makes it a solid choice for weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings alike.