El Burrito Mercado pairs Mexican favorites with a full market

The public verdict

El Burrito Mercado holds a 4.5 Google rating from 5594 reviews, a substantial signal of broad, sustained approval. Recent public comments repeatedly emphasize flavorful food, friendly staff and service that moves smoothly even when diners are ordering to go. The restaurant also stands apart from a typical counter-service stop because it shares space with a full Mexican market.

The overall impression is casual, lively and budget friendly. Diners describe it as worth driving out of the way for, particularly when a meal can be combined with grocery shopping. Its presence at the Minnesota State Fair and community events may make the logo familiar, but reviewers suggest that the Saint Paul restaurant and market provide the fuller experience.

What diners order

Breakfast receives some of the clearest praise. The breakfast burrito appears in multiple reviews and is described as delicious, with rice and beans making it a more complete meal. A breakfast torta also earns a mention, though the available review excerpt does not provide further detail.

Tamales are another strong choice. One first-time diner praised the flavor and size of the chicken tamales, served with black beans and rice. Sopes with chicken and tongue were also well received. Elsewhere, a shrimp burrito, rice and queso drew enthusiastic feedback, reinforcing the sense that the kitchen performs reliably across several familiar Mexican staples.

Chips and salsa are not treated as an afterthought. Diners specifically call the chips tasty and note that the salsa brings noticeable heat. Green salsa is described as flavorful and mildly spicy rather than overwhelming, though sensitivity to chile varies.

More than a restaurant

The attached market is a central part of the appeal. Public reviews highlight the grocery section, meat department and bakery, along with goods for cooking at home. That makes El Burrito Mercado useful for several kinds of visits: a sit-down breakfast, a quick hot meal to go, or a combined lunch and shopping trip.

Reviewers also report friendly staff and an efficient ordering and pickup process. One returning customer noted that the deli setup had changed from a cafeteria-style line to food served behind a wall with plexiglass windows. That may require a moment of orientation for longtime visitors, but the same review still praised the service and food.

Best way to try it

A first visit is well suited to breakfast or a tamale plate, followed by time in the market. The breakfast burrito with rice and beans has the strongest repetition in the supplied comments, while chicken tamales offer another clearly praised option. Chips with salsa can round out either order for diners comfortable with some heat.

Based on the provided rating, review volume and recurring themes, El Burrito Mercado looks like a dependable Saint Paul choice rather than a one-dish destination. The combination of hot prepared food, efficient takeout and extensive shopping gives it practical appeal, while praise for tamales, burritos and salsa supplies the main reason to return.