El Taco Express — Restaurant in Springfield

I checked this place out for the first time because I'm planning to buy something different for a superbowl party. I got one chicken soft taco. Seemingly so simple, yet easy to mess up, and sublime if done right. Okay, the filling was top notch and fabulous; an ample portion of very savory shredded chicken in a red sauce with sauteed onions and cilantro. The double street tortillas that were wrapped around it tasted like they were used right out of the package - raw, cold, dry, brittle and starchy. Soft corn tortillas need to be "cooked/warmed" in a little oil, or on a flat top, in an oven or microwave, and these were not, or not nearly sufficiently. Out of the two little containers of salsa that came with it - the red salsa was very good, but the green salsa container was "pooched" ( the lid was swollen upward) so that when I opened it, it popped or exploded - not a good sign, so I threw that one out. Since I was in the restaurant business for thirty years in Los Angeles, Houston, Chicago, and Atlanta, maybe like Gordon Ramsey, I can tell by one dish if the menu is a good one - in this case I can tell by one dish that the recipes are excellent, but the attention to detail needs to be improved to carry them out. If anyone wants to know the standard to aspire to in these parts, visit Mi Burrito on Lombard in North Portland; that hole in the wall is absolutely amazing! El Taco Express has some very serious good potential but needs a little tweaking in my estimation. PS - I've been back multiple times and I have to say that the first time I went there and then wrote the original review must have been a rare less than great day. Since then I've been wowed by the tastiness, portions, quality, and service. Excellente! PS - I went back a final time for me in October 2025. This place is hit and miss and it missed on my last visit. I decided to splurge for a dinner plate, and it came out of the kitchen plain old cold; the grated cheese on the refrieds didn't even start to melt. I asked them to warm it up - there was no sorry or anything from the guy that took it, or the guy that brought it back out of the kitchen. The guy that brought it back out didn't even make eye contact; I guess wanting hot food is being too much of a...

I recently had the pleasure of dining at El Taco Express, and I must say, it exceeded all my expectations. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted with a vibrant and lively atmosphere that instantly transported me to Mexico.

The menu at El Taco Express is a true culinary delight. Their authentic Mexican dishes are prepared with utmost care and attention to detail. The flavors were bold, the ingredients were fresh, and each dish was a masterpiece in itself. Whether it was their mouthwatering tacos, flavorful burritos, or their delectable enchiladas, every bite was a burst of deliciousness.

What truly sets El Taco Express apart is their exceptional service. The staff was friendly, attentive, and went above and beyond to ensure a memorable dining experience. They were knowledgeable about the menu, readily available to answer any questions, and provided prompt service with a genuine smile.

The ambiance of El Taco Express is also worth mentioning. The restaurant is tastefully decorated, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether you're dining with friends, family, or even alone, you'll feel right at home in this cozy establishment.

In conclusion, El Taco Express is a hidden gem in our community. With its authentic flavors, exceptional service, and inviting ambiance, it is a must-visit for any Mexican cuisine enthusiast. I highly recommend giving it a try and indulging in their mouthwatering offerings. You won't be...

Definitely a nice hole in the wall if you know it’s there. I can see how it could be easily missed don’t let the boring exterior, and neglected interior deter you. The food is great, I actually really enjoy going there. They serve lengua which I personally enjoy. They have had it every time I order it, which I can’t say about all taco spots. It can be pretty hit or miss even if it is on the posted menu. They serve horchata flavored beverages which is okay but it’s definitely not genuine. The floor is always clean there, as well as the tables and counter from which you place your order. They have never messed up my order there either which is always nice. Really I just wish they would, put some love into their dining room. So they could be as proud of it as they are of their food. Who knows it might even attract...