Esparza's Tex Mex Cafe
(503) 234-7909
2725 SE Ankeny St
Portland,
OR
97214
45.5223
-122.6379
Neighborhoods: Southeast Uplift Neighborhood Program, Buckman
What People Are Saying About Esparza's Tex Mex Cafe
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
In Short
This kitschily decorated joint--stuffed snakes, animal skulls and marionettes--is a popular spot for locals seeking out inexpensive Mexican fare. Lunches and early dinners are not as crowded, but it's almost always packed during regular dinner hours. Mexican favorites, including tacos and enchiladas, and more exotic dishes are available. The Texas Ranger pork loins stuffed with napolitos (cactus) and meats like ostrich, boar and buffalo, are popular choices. Margaritas are big, flavorful and potent.
User Reviews
littleowl
June 29, 2009
First of all, the service here was very slow. It took quite some time for the server to even get us two menus. He was friendly enough, but seemed to spend a lot of time chit chatting the ears off of the other customers who were sitting outside with us. After perusing the menu, the roughly $10 minimum price on each meal gave us the idea that the food would be well worth the price...not so much. While the margarita my boyfriend ordered was tasty, I can't say so much about the meal. When our meals finally arrived, they were, for lack of a better word, blah. The rice and beans were exceptionally bland, and my tostadas were covered mostly with shredded lettuce and a very minimal (hardly existent) spread of cheese underneath. My boyfriend's meal, which was even pricier than mine and included actual meat, was just as bland! In the end, we were disappointed by the $30 bill after having eaten something I could have ordered for $3.50 from a cafeteria. Good, but not good enough.
read full review
Thumper62
May 21, 2009
I had lunch at Esparza's on 5/19/09. I ordered the boar nachos and a Negra Modelo, and enjoyed the complimentary chips & salsa. The boar nachos were very tasty, and the house guacamole was some of the best I've had in PDX. The house salsa was flavorful, and the chips were first-rate. Service was quick, friendly, and attentive. First time visitors be warned---if you're looking for vegetarian or vegan options, go somewhere else, for Pete's sake. This is Tex-Mex, not friggin' Olive Garden. The offerings can be pretty spicy, too, so if you like bland, Taco Hell is your friend. Overall, I enjoyed a decent light lunch with pleasant service for not too much money. I'll be back again.
read full review
CSMobileUser
May 01, 2009
The server was great. Fast, kept the water, sodas and cocktails full... The menu is not friendly for the vegetarians(beans with lard and rice with what I am guessing with chicken broth)... the waiter worked with me making some fine quesadillas.. The salsa was good as well as the chips... A great place for meat eaters.
read full reviewThe Details on Esparza's Tex Mex Cafe
When to Go:
Reservations are not accepted, so go early to ensure you get a seat.
Category:
Payment Methods:
American Express, Discover, Visa, Diners Club, MasterCard
Restaurant Special Features:
Local Favorite, Family-Friendly Dining, Brunch, Outdoor Dining, Dine At The Bar
Cuisine:
Smoking Permitted:
No
