What should I order at L & J Cafe?
L & J Cafe
Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas
One of the most frequently praised items in the reviews; multiple diners called it a must-try and said it was the restaurant’s famous dish. Reviewers loved the flavorful green chile sauce, tender chicken, and overall balance of heat and richness.
Queso
Repeatedly recommended as an appetizer and described as an absolute must, with reviewers praising its cheesy, comforting flavor. Several guests ordered it with chips or as part of combo meals and said it was a standout.
Chips and Salsa
The house chips and salsas were mentioned again and again, especially the fresh chips and flavorful red, green, and tomatillo salsas. Reviewers loved the variety, freshness, and the fact that the salsa was so good they kept asking for refills or even bought some to take home.
Guacamole
Recommended as a starter by multiple reviewers, who said it was excellent and worth ordering. It was praised for being fresh and flavorful, with one reviewer calling it a dish you should not skip.
Tres Leches Cake
Mentioned positively by several reviewers as a satisfying dessert to finish the meal. People described it as moist, light, and delicious, with one review highlighting its soft texture and balanced sweetness.
Chile Relleno
Highly praised in combo plates and as a standalone dish, with reviewers noting the perfectly cooked texture and flavorful filling. It was described as rich, authentic, and one of the best items on the menu.
Mexican Combo Plate
Frequently recommended for first-time visitors because it lets you sample several house favorites in one meal. Reviewers liked the variety and said every component was delicious, making it a safe and satisfying choice.
Chicken Mole
Recommended for its tender chicken and rich, balanced mole sauce. One reviewer said the mole was so memorable they were still thinking about it on the drive home.
Hours
| Monday | 9 AM to 9 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9 AM to 9 PM |
| Wednesday | 9 AM to 9 PM |
| Thursday | 9 AM to 9 PM |
| Friday | 9 AM to 9 PM |
| Saturday | 9 AM to 9 PM |
| Sunday | 9 AM to 5 PM |
About L & J Cafe
A local landmark dating back to 1927, this family-run eatery serves regional Mexican dishes & beers.
Amenities & services
From the business
- Identifies as Latino-owned
- Identifies as women-owned
Service options
- Curbside pickup
- Delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Serves local specialty
- Sports
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Private dining room
- Quick bite
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Historic
- Trendy
Crowd
- College students
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Tourists
- Transgender safespace
Planning
- Accepts reservations
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- Has changing table(s)
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Paid street parking
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
Pets
- Dogs allowed
Frequently asked questions
What is L & J Cafe known for?
L & J Cafe is best known for its green chicken enchiladas, which are mentioned most often in reviews, along with chile relleno, flautas, and combination plates. Reviewers also call out the queso, green salsa, and sopapillas as part of the experience, and many say the food feels like an authentic El Paso Mexican meal.
What dishes are most recommended at L & J Cafe?
The most recommended dishes are the green chicken enchiladas, chile relleno, beef flautas, and combination plates. Reviewers also specifically mention chicken mole, queso, guacamole, and sopapillas, with several saying the portions are huge and the beans and rice are solid sides.
What is the atmosphere like at L & J Cafe?
The atmosphere is casual, cozy, and historic, with a setting right by Concordia Cemetery that many reviewers say adds to the character. It draws groups, families, tourists, and solo diners, and people often describe it as warm, welcoming, and busy without feeling impersonal.
Is L & J Cafe good value, and what is the price range?
L & J Cafe falls in the $10 to $20 range, and reviewers often say the portions make it a strong value. One review noted a meal for two with appetizers, drinks, and entrees came in under $50, while others say the food is worth the wait and the prices feel fair for the amount served.
How long is the wait at L & J Cafe?
Waits are common, especially during peak times like Saturday afternoons and early evening, and reviewers mention waits of 20 minutes or more. Several people recommend going early because the restaurant gets packed, though some also note that seating can still move quickly once you arrive.
Is parking available at L & J Cafe?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Paid street parking, Usually somewhat difficult to find a space is available.
Does L & J Cafe have vegetarian options?
Yes, L & J Cafe offers vegan options.
Is L & J Cafe kid-friendly?
Yes, L & J Cafe is good for kids.
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