A chain that helped popularize Mexican food across California has a menu with recognizable classics, and the El Torito Menu with Prices is something many hungry fans look up before heading out. You probably know the spot for its giant sombrero-shaped roof and the fresh tortilla chips that hit the table before you even order. But knowing what things cost before you sit down can save you from sticker shock and help you pick the best value for your meal.
El Torito has been around since 1954, starting in West Covina before spreading across the state. The menu is big, with everything from sizzling fajitas to combo plates. This guide breaks down the current offerings, typical price ranges, and what you can expect to pay at the door. Prices will vary a little by location, but these figures give you a solid ballpark.
El Torito Menu With Prices
We have pulled together the most common items and their average costs based on recent visits and menu updates. Remember that happy hour and lunch specials can drop these prices significantly. If you are watching your budget, go during weekday afternoons for the best deals.
Appetizers And Starters
You cannot start a Mexican meal without some appetizers. The portions here are generous, so you might want to share.
- Tableside Guacamole – $14.99 (made fresh in front of you)
- Classic Nachos with Chicken – $13.49
- Queso Fundido with Chorizo – $12.99
- Chips and Salsa (complimentary) – Free
- Mexican Shrimp Cocktail – $15.49
- Chicken Taquitos – $11.29
The guacamole is a show. They bring the cart to your table and mash the avocados right there. It is fun but a little pricey for what you get. The queso fundido is stretchy and rich, perfect for dipping the soft tortillas they bring alongside.
Fajitas And Sizzling Plates
Fajitas are the main event at El Torito. You will hear the sizzle before you see the plate. They come with peppers, onions, and your choice of protein, plus warm tortillas, rice, and beans.
- Fajitas al Carbon (Steak) – $21.99
- Chicken Fajitas – $19.49
- Shrimp Fajitas – $22.99
- Combination Fajitas (Steak and Chicken) – $23.49
- Vegetable Fajitas – $16.99
The steak fajitas are the most popular order. The meat comes out juicy and seasoned well. If you are really hungry, get the combination so you can try both proteins. The portion is large enough that you might take half home.
Combination Plates
These are the classic dinners that include two or three items. You get to pick from tacos, enchiladas, burritos, and chile rellenos. Each plate comes with rice and beans.
- Two Item Combo – $15.99
- Three Item Combo – $17.49
- Chile Relleno and Enchilada – $16.29
- Beef Taco and Cheese Enchilada – $15.99
Combination plates are a safe bet if you want a little bit of everything. The enchiladas are smothered in red sauce and melted cheese. The tacos are crunchy with fresh lettuce and tomato on top.
Seafood Dishes
El Torito does not just do land food. They have a decent selection of seafood options that are popular near the coast.
- Grilled Salmon with Mango Salsa – $18.99
- Shrimp Enchiladas – $17.49
- Fish Tacos (two pieces) – $15.99
- Camarones al Mojo de Ajo (Garlic Shrimp) – $19.99
The garlic shrimp is buttery and full of flavor. It comes with a side of rice and a small salad. The fish tacos are lighter and have a nice crunch from the cabbage slaw.
Specialty Dinners
These are the signature dishes that you will not find at every Mexican place. They take a bit longer to prepare but are worth the wait.
- Carne Asada Dinner – $20.99
- Pollo en Mole Poblano – $17.99
- Chicken Chimichanga – $16.49
- El Torito Burrito (Large) – $15.99
The carne asada comes with a nice char and is served with grilled scallions. The mole sauce is rich and dark, not too sweet. The chimichanga is deep-fried until golden and topped with sour cream and guacamole.
Lunch Specials
If you are visiting during the week, the lunch menu is where the savings are. These are served from 11 am to 3 pm on weekdays only.
- Lunch Fajita Bowl – $11.99
- Lunch Taco Salad – $10.49
- Lunch Enchilada Plate – $9.99
- Lunch Burrito Supreme – $10.99
Lunch portions are smaller but still filling. You get a drink included with some of these combos. It is a smart way to try El Torito without spending a lot.
Desserts
Save room for something sweet. The dessert menu is short but satisfying.
- Churros with Chocolate Sauce – $7.99
- Fried Ice Cream – $6.99
- Flan – $5.99
- Triple Chocolate Cake – $7.49
The fried ice cream is a classic. It has a crunchy shell with cold vanilla ice cream inside. The churros are dusted with cinnamon sugar and come with a warm dipping sauce.
Drinks And Margaritas
El Torito is famous for its margaritas. They have a full bar and a big drink menu. Prices depend on the size and whether you want a top-shelf tequila.
- House Margarita (Regular) – $8.99
- House Margarita (Grande) – $12.99
- Swirl Margarita – $9.99
- Cadillac Margarita – $13.49
- Mexican Beer (Bottle) – $6.50
Happy hour is the best time to try the drinks. Many locations have half-price appetizers and discounted margaritas from 3 pm to 6 pm. Check with your local spot for the exact times.
Kid’s Menu
Bringing the family? The kids menu has smaller portions at lower prices. Each meal comes with a drink and a small dessert.
- Kid’s Cheese Quesadilla – $6.99
- Kid’s Chicken Tenders – $7.49
- Kid’s Bean and Cheese Burrito – $6.49
- Kid’s Taco (Soft or Hard) – $6.99
Kids get a coloring page and crayons to keep them busy. The portions are just right for little appetites. You can also ask for fruit instead of rice or beans.
Prices And Value
El Torito is not the cheapest Mexican food around, but you are paying for the sit-down experience and the atmosphere. The portions are big, so the price per person works out okay if you share appetizers and skip the fancy drinks. A typical dinner for two with an appetizer and non-alcoholic drinks will run you around $50 to $60.
Here are some tips to keep your bill lower:
- Go during happy hour for discounted drinks and snacks
- Order the lunch specials instead of the dinner menu
- Skip the bottled water and ask for tap water with lime
- Share a fajita plate, they are big enough for two
- Look for coupons in local mailers or the app
They also have a rewards program called Fire & Spice. You earn points on every purchase. The points add up fast if you eat there often.
Location Differences
Prices are not the same at every El Torito. Locations in big cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco tend to be a bit higher. Suburban locations in the Central Valley or inland areas are often cheaper. The menu itself can also vary. Some spots have regional specials or seasonal items that others do not carry.
You can check the exact menu for your nearest location on their official website. The online menu shows current prices and any limited-time offers. It is a good idea to look before you go, especially if you are on a tight budget.
Dietary Options
If you have food restrictions, El Torito has some options. They have a vegetarian section with veggie fajitas and bean burritos. You can ask for no cheese or sour cream on most dishes. For gluten-free needs, the corn tortillas are safe. Just tell your server about your allergy so they can alert the kitchen.
They do not have a dedicated vegan menu, but you can make some dishes work. The veggie fajitas without the dairy toppings are a good choice. The rice and beans are usually cooked without meat products, but it is best to confirm with your server.
Online Ordering And Delivery
You can order El Torito for pickup or delivery through their website or third-party apps. The prices for delivery are often a little higher to cover the service fees. Pickup is the better deal if you live close by. They have a separate pickup entrance at many locations, so you do not have to wait in the lobby.
When you order online, you can see the full El Torito Menu with Prices right on your screen. This makes it easy to compare options and build your cart. The online system also remembers your past orders, so reordering your favorite meal takes just a couple of clicks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does El Torito have a happy hour menu?
Yes, most locations have a happy hour from 3 pm to 6 pm on weekdays. You can find discounted margaritas and appetizers during this time. The specific deals vary by location, so ask your server or check the website.
Are there any discounts for seniors or military?
Some locations offer a 10% discount for seniors and military personnel. You need to ask your server and show an ID. This is not advertised widely, so it is worth asking about when you arrive.
Can I order just the tortilla chips and salsa?
The chips and salsa are complimentary while you are seated. You can ask for refills at no extra cost. If you want to take some to go, they may charge a small fee for the container.
Is the menu different for brunch on weekends?
Yes, many locations serve a weekend brunch buffet from 9 am to 2 pm. This includes breakfast items like chilaquiles and huevos rancheros. The buffet price is around $18.99 per person, which includes unlimited trips to the food bar.
Do they offer gift cards?
El Torito sells physical and digital gift cards. You can buy them online or at the restaurant. They work at any El Torito location and do not expire.
Final Thoughts
El Torito remains a solid choice for accessible Mexican food with a festive vibe. The El Torito Menu with Prices shows that you can eat well without going broke, especially if you use the lunch specials or happy hour deals. The food is consistent, the service is usually friendly, and the atmosphere is lively. Next time you are thinking about Mexican food, give them a try. You will likely leave full and satisfied, with maybe a doggy bag for tomorrows lunch.