Delicioso! Top 5 Mexican Restaurants in Eugene

By: Michelle Locke | June 14 2011
Posted in Eugene - Find It - Eugene

Mounds of fresh guacamole + perfectly crisp chips! Photo by: Michelle Locke

Eugene might not be famous for Mexican food, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t great places to chow down. When it comes to Mexican food, authenticity, atmosphere, and price are always huge factors when picking the best places to grab a bite. The Local Dish went on a mission to find Eugene’s top 5 places to nosh on great south-of-the-border fare. Keep reading to find out where we landed!

1. Mucho Gusto is owned and operated by Westraunt Concepts, a restaurant company that describes itself as “quick-casual” and based in Eugene. Mucho Gusto has become a staple of Eugene, serving quick, fresh Mexican food at low prices. For $5.99, you can get a tostada with chips on the side…and you get to choose everything that goes with it! With a choice of five different proteins, tons of other toppings (including spicy jalapeños and tasty lime-cilantro sour cream), and three different salsas, the options are truly endless. Thanks to fast service and a fun atmosphere, it’s also a great place for families on-the-go. You can find Mucho Gusto in two locations: in Eugene at 67 Oakway Center, and in Medford at 1251 East McAndrews Road.

2. The Mission is located on 610 East Broadway, close to the Unvierstiy of Oregon campus. This Mexican joint has established itself as friendly to students and non-students alike. The prices are great and so is the atmosphere. A veggie burrito with beans and rice on the side, is only $7.50…and it’s delicious and filling too. While the menu isn’t as flexible as Mucho Gusto’s, the portions and prices make up for it. You’ll definitely go home with leftovers that taste just as good reheated as they did straight off the grill.

3. Chapala Mexican Restaurant has several locations throughout Eugene and is on the more traditional side. Every Chapala location is fun and brightly decorated, and the staff is always great – a bonus when it comes to any restaurant. The one downside of Chapala’s is that they are more expensive than both the Mission and Mucho Gusto – but if you’re looking for great food, a variety of locations, and a great atmosphere, look no further. Their portions are huge and everything is delicious. They have two locations in Eugene: one on 68 West 29th Street, and one at 136 Oakway Center.

4. Burrito Boy. With five locations throughout Eugene, Burrito Boy has become a favorite for quick Mexican food! Their portions are plentiful, as well as scrumptious. Plus, their prices simply cannot be beat. A carne asada burrito is only $4.75 and is large enough to keep you feelig full and satisfied for hours and hours. With quick service and extremely good prices, Burrito Boy is one of the best places to get to-go Mexican food in Eugene. They have five locations in Eugene. See their site for addresses and directions!

5. El Torito offers a convenient location, reasonable prices, and a fun atmosphere. Located across from the Valley River Center at 1003 Valley River Way, it’s a great place to stop for a quick lunch. Entrée prices range from $9-13 and the portions are extremely generous. El Torito’s menu offers both classic “American” Mexican dishes (such as taco salads and cheese quesadillas) and traditional Mexican favorites like authentic enchiladas and tamales. The service is always great and the food, of course, is always delicious.