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El Zarape

El Zarape is more than just a restaurant; it's an experience that brings the flavors of home-style Mexican cuisine to Nogales, Arizona. Nestled at 694 N Grand Ave, Nogales, this charming spot has built a reputation for offering delicious food and warm hospitality. Whether you’re a local or passing through, El Zarape’s combination of cozy ambiance, family-oriented service, and authentic dishes will make your visit memorable.

An Authentic Taste of Mexico in Every Bite

When it comes to authentic Mexican cuisine, few places capture the essence quite like El Zarape. The menu offers a wide variety of options that cater to diverse tastes. If you’re a fan of hearty comfort food, you’ll appreciate the menudo, a traditional Mexican soup that's highly recommended by locals. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for those craving something that feels like a home-cooked meal.

El Zarape also shines when it comes to breakfast options. Many regulars rave about the machaca and the famous breakfast burrito, which are must-tries if you’re starting your day here. These dishes bring together bold flavors and fresh ingredients, making your breakfast experience truly satisfying.

Perfect for Solo Diners and Families

One of the best things about El Zarape is its casual and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a place where solo diners, groups of friends, and families can feel right at home. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible, making it a convenient option for everyone. Whether you’re in for a quick bite or a leisurely meal with loved ones, the staff ensures fast service without compromising on quality.

In fact, the quick service is one of the highlights, making it easy for customers who are short on time to enjoy a full meal without waiting too long. Despite its efficiency, the restaurant never feels rushed. You can comfortably enjoy your food while soaking in the laid-back ambiance that makes El Zarape so appealing.

A Menu with Something for Everyone

While El Zarape doesn’t offer vegan options or serve alcohol, it makes up for this with an extensive menu that suits various preferences. The restaurant is particularly known for its variety of small plates, healthy choices, and quick bites, making it an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy a lighter meal. If you’re more inclined toward comfort food, El Zarape delivers with hearty dishes that will leave you feeling full and satisfied.

For those who are coffee lovers, El Zarape has a treat in store. Their great coffee is the perfect accompaniment to any meal, whether you're having breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even dessert. Many visitors find that their coffee adds a comforting touch to the overall dining experience, providing the perfect pick-me-up during the day.

Ideal for Any Time of Day

Whether you’re stopping by for a quick lunch or a more leisurely dinner, El Zarape has you covered. Their menu spans across all times of the day, from breakfast to dinner and even dessert, ensuring that no matter when you visit, there’s always something to enjoy.

In addition to their dine-in options, El Zarape also offers takeout and delivery services. This makes it incredibly convenient for those who want to enjoy their meal from the comfort of their home or on the go. The restaurant’s focus on making the dining experience accessible is evident in every aspect of their service.

Family-Friendly and Local Favorite

El Zarape is a staple in Nogales, and it’s easy to see why the restaurant is recommended by locals. The warm, welcoming atmosphere paired with good service makes it a popular choice for both tourists and residents alike. It’s the kind of place where families feel comfortable, and the staff always make you feel at home.

Though parking can be a bit limited, this minor inconvenience doesn’t detract from the overall experience. Once inside, the affordable prices and generous portions make any wait worth it. El Zarape strikes the perfect balance between affordability and quality, ensuring you leave with a full stomach and a smile.

Reviews

R Z.
Restaurantji Rating

Zarape is the place to have breakfast at in Nogales AZ Their menudo is the best (don't tell my mom)!!! Service is fast, prices are ok, parking lot is kind of small but you can easily find extra spots right next to their building. I've also tried the machaca, ham and eggs as well as the breakfast burrito! The place seems small but they do have capacity!

Jose A.
Restaurantji Rating

Food was great and the service was fast. Only bad part, the parking lot is really small and tight.

Steve B.
Restaurantji Rating

Drifting thru Nogales after taking care of business I felt the need for tacos. I thought about walking across the border to hit something on the south. Then I drove past El Zarape. This was good . Nothing special in the way of ambiance but the food was spot on.

Warren E.
Restaurantji Rating

I eat here a lot, two of my favorites here are the red chile burrito and BP special. The BP (Border Patrol) special is three mini bean and cheese burritos for a dollar and not on the menu. Typically I have them add machaca, a dried beef to the burrito as well but this increases the price. The red chile burrito has a great flavor, is not soggy, and not super spicy; its very mild. They also have the Mexico style lemonade that is made with limes, this is super refreshing on a warm day. Definatrly a recommended local spot to get great food at a reasonable price.

Richard F.
Restaurantji Rating

On our recent trip to Nogales we looked for the restaurant where we ate on our last visit but, unfortunately it was closed. So just down the street we found this place and it turned out to be a good find. We arrived after the lunch crowd left so we had no trouble finding a comfortable booth. Our server came right away and took our drink order. She was back quickly to take our food order. We decided to order two combinations and then share. I ordered the chile relleno, taco dorado and enchilada. My wife got the chimichanga, gordita, and quesadilla. Both were served with a nice portion of rice, a salad and a hot homemade salsa. We shared and both had enough to satisfy our hunger. Everything was delicious and the hot salsa added enough spice to give it a great flavor. If you like authentic Mexican food rather than the pretend Tex-Mex this is a great place to eat. We will return for sure soon and hope they do not close in the meantime.

Location & Contact

694 N Grand Ave Nogales, AZ 85621

Opening times

Monday 4:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday 4:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday 4:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Thursday 4:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Friday 4:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Saturday 4:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Sunday 3:00 AM - 3:00 PM
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