El Norte Mexican Bar and Grill

Good food but not so good service. Restaurant was not very busy but I could not get my water filled and server did not check up to see how our food was however food runners and other staff were great about refilling our chips/salsa. Once we finally ordered food prep was quick and it tasted really great. Ambiance was typical Mexican restaurant feeling.

A new establishment opened recently in Circle Pines. I rated this place 4/5 stars due to the lack of frequent checks from the servers. They did check on us initially, but not when we were halfway or had stopped eating. However, I would like for them to approach me to ask how I am doing rather than them scanning the room to see how the customers are doing before walking away. Personally, I feel bad if I have to flag someone down. It is a casual environment with Mexican music playing in the background. When we entered the restaurant, we were immediately greeted by a staff member. We were approached promptly for drink orders. Unfortunately, prices are not listed for the drinks. My husband ordered a blended large margarita, and I had a coke. The chips and salsa were good. We ordered the boneless wings with buffalo sauce. Our choices were teriyaki or buffalo. The breading on the boneless wings were good. I ordered the taco de carne azada, 3 street tacos with refried beans and rice. Again, it was really good. Meanwhile, my husband ordered Rafael's burrito through the server's recommendation, which had flavorful steak and chicken. Surprisingly the burrito was gigantic! It was enough to feed two people. If we had to redo our dining experience, we would not order the boneless wings. (We could do without.) The entrees were delicious and flavorful, but based on taste and food items, it catered to Minnesotan's taste buds. In other words, the food is not spicy. They also have dessert in the glass by the cash register, but no pricing or name listed. I ordered the flan for to-go, which was also good.

Newer Mexican spot off of 35W in the strip mall. Nice atmosphere, good food, pleasant service from Maria when we enjoyed our lunch here. The Carnitas Burrito was wonderful! I could decide, so the Lunch Combo Pick was the way to go!

Great food and VibesPros:- Food is flavorful and hot; they have many options to choose from. The salsa and queso is top tier. The salsa leans towards the spicy side and it's very good. - Service has been great every time we have gone. The owners are very nice and friendly!- Ambiance is what you would expect from a Mexican restaurant - just a fun place to sit down and eat. Cons: - Speed: not really a con if you know the food comes out QUICKLY. We usually like to enjoy our chips and salsa with some margaritas and need a bit of extra time before the entrees come. So if you want to enjoy the chips and salsa, wait to order your entrees!

Several friends ordered the bacon wrapped shrimp last night. It was beyond terrible! The shrimp and the bacon were both so chewy and tough they were inedible. Also, the shrimp was hidden under the bacon and they left the tails on the shrimp. Gross!!!

Ordered some food for pick up. Was told they don't normally accept cash payment but they would make an "exception" They also charge a "To-Go" Fee simply for ordering take out. Food was decent. But definitely over priced.

I would never ever go to this place again. First of all I ordered a bloody Mary, and I don't think there was 1 ounce of alcohol in it. The waitress tells us that she hasn't made a drink since her college days, and that was clearly many years ago. So she had to ask us if our drinks tasted right We waited for at least an hour and a half and never got our food. Not once did the waitress come over and, say anything about it or check on our food or check on us. Would never ever go back to this place again. The worst service ever. I wouldn't even give it one star

Great food, drinks, prices, atmosphere and service (Maria took good care of us)! Ample portions for the price. Vast menu, including seafood options. Margaritas come with a unique, tangy spice on the rim, as did the Grand Marnier/amaretto combo. Tortilla chips were excellent. Just hearty enough to hold delicious queso dip and mild salsa. Upbeat vibe with background music and sports on the TVs. We prefer to support locally-owned businesses, so were glad to hear when we asked that this restaurant is.

We have had take-out from here several times and have never been disappointed. The quesadillas, burritos and fajitas are all excellent. Lots of authentic flavor in the entrees, and if you like more heat, it's in the salsa. The prices aren't cheap but the portions are HUGE. Hubby and I can split an app and entree no problem. Would highly recommend this place!

The food, service and atmosphere are great! The owners are super nice. The music and pull tabs made for a fun evening. Would definitely go back! It's a must try for everyone!