El Portal Mexican Grill offers a vibrant and extensive menu, showcasing the diverse flavors and culinary traditions of Mexico. While a precise, up-to-the-minute menu isn't consistently available online across all locations (menus can vary slightly by franchise), this guide will explore the typical offerings, helping you navigate the delicious choices awaiting you. We'll also address some common questions potential diners might have.
What are the Appetizers at El Portal Mexican Grill?
El Portal Mexican Grill typically starts your culinary journey with a tempting selection of appetizers, designed for sharing or savoring individually. Expect to find classics like:
- Queso Fundido: Melted cheese, often with chorizo or other additions, served bubbling hot with warm tortillas for dipping. This is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for sharing.
- Guacamole and Chips: Freshly made guacamole, often prepared tableside, served with crispy tortilla chips.
- Nachos: A customizable option, usually featuring tortilla chips layered with cheese, beans, and your choice of meat (ground beef, chicken, carnitas).
- Flautas: Rolled corn tortillas filled with seasoned meat and deep-fried until crispy. These are often served with various toppings.
- Shrimp Ceviche: (Availability may vary) A refreshing and zesty appetizer featuring fresh shrimp "cooked" in lime juice with onions, cilantro, and tomatoes.
What are the main courses at El Portal Mexican Grill?
The heart of the El Portal Mexican Grill menu lies in its extensive selection of main courses, offering something for every palate. You can typically find:
- Tacos: A staple of Mexican cuisine, El Portal likely offers a variety of fillings, from carne asada (grilled steak) and al pastor (marinated pork) to carnitas (slow-cooked pork) and pollo (chicken). These are usually served in soft corn or flour tortillas.
- Fajitas: Sizzling strips of meat (steak, chicken, or shrimp) and vegetables served with warm tortillas for self-assembly. A fun and interactive dining experience.
- Enchiladas: Corn tortillas filled with various ingredients (cheese, chicken, beef) and smothered in your choice of sauce (red or green).
- Burritos: Large flour tortillas filled with rice, beans, your choice of meat, and often other toppings like cheese, lettuce, and salsa. A hearty and satisfying option.
- Combination Plates: These are great value-for-money options, often including a selection of enchiladas, tacos, or other dishes.
What kind of desserts does El Portal Mexican Grill offer?
While the main courses are the stars, El Portal Mexican Grill usually concludes your meal with a sweet ending. Popular choices include:
- Churros: Deep-fried dough pastries sprinkled with cinnamon sugar and often served with chocolate sauce.
- Flan: A creamy caramel custard dessert, a classic of Mexican cuisine.
- Ice Cream: Simple yet satisfying, often served with a variety of toppings.
Does El Portal Mexican Grill have vegetarian options?
Yes, many El Portal locations cater to vegetarian preferences. Look for vegetarian burritos, vegetarian enchiladas (cheese-filled), or build your own fajitas by selecting only the vegetables. Be sure to inquire about potential cross-contamination when ordering vegetarian dishes.
What are the drinks at El Portal Mexican Grill?
Beyond the standard soft drinks and juices, El Portal Mexican Grill typically offers a range of beverages. Expect to find:
- Margaritas: A classic Mexican cocktail, usually available in several variations (classic, strawberry, mango).
- Mexican Beer: A selection of Mexican beers on tap or in bottles.
- Horchata: A refreshing rice-milk based beverage, typically sweetened with cinnamon and sugar.
Disclaimer: Menu items and pricing may vary by location. It's always recommended to check the specific menu at your local El Portal Mexican Grill restaurant for the most up-to-date information.