Good Luck Cafe image

Good Luck Cafe

Restaurant Cafe Breakfast restaurant Mexican restaurant

Veteran diner for homestyle Mexican eats (menudo, chilaquiles) in a plain space with counter seats. People often mention menudo, good, Good, service, great, Menudo, line, table, Paso, waitress,


Address

3813 Alameda Ave, El Paso, TX 79905, United States

Website

goodluckcafe.net

Contact

+1 915-532-9039

Price rating

$ $$$

Rating on Google Maps

4.40 (3.4K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Monday: 7 am to 7 pm
  • Tuesday: 7 am to 7 pm
  • Wednesday: Closed
  • Thursday: 7 am to 7 pm
  • Friday: 7 am to 7 pm
  • Saturday: 7 am to 7 pm
  • Sunday: 7 am to 7 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: menudo (19) good (18) Good (11) service (11) great (10) Menudo (9) line (8) table (7) Paso (6) waitress (6)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Abe 2 years ago on Google
    We are From San Antonio TX…passing thru from Ruidoso, NM and stopped in EL Paso….. oh man reviews did not lie!! The food is absolutely AMAZINGLY DELICIOUS!! Our waitress was so kind and brought taste testers for us. When/if ever coming through I will definitely stop here to eat!! The flavor and authenticity of the food left us wanting more!!
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Beatriz L. 8 months ago on Google
    So an article from Taste Atlas brought me here. This website named the menudo at Good Luck Cafe the #1 best menudo in the world. That's quite a title to bestow and an exceedingly high expectation to set up for this restaurant that in my opinion, did not deliver. Here is how it went for me: 1. I called ahead and asked if take out was an option, the woman that answered said yes and then hung up on me. 2. I went in person to order my menudo to go, the same woman was at the register. Her 3 inch nails and rude attitude definitely did not give me good vibes about visiting in the future. 3. I decided to order a Chile relleno and Chilaquiles along with my menudo to test out their menu. Neither the Chile relleno or Chilaquiles came with rice and beans, it also wasn't offered to me. The Chile relleno was ok, not as fluffy as I like mine. The chilaquiles were ALL HEAT no flavor. 4. THE MENUDO: the caldo had a good consistency and the meat was cooked well. But alas, no heat and no flavor. By far the most bland menudo I have ever had. My brother said it was "mid". My dad said "no flavor, the caldo tastes like water." I've tried menudo at about 100 restaurants in Los Angeles, Chicago, Albuquerque, El Paso, Durango Mexico and Chihuahua. I'd place this Menudo at about #90 on my list. The best menudo I've ever had of course, was home made by a talented neighbor. There was a gentleman that checked in on us while we were waiting for our order, he was kind and gracious, otherwise I would've given this review 1 star. EDIT: I hear there is usually a long wait with a line out the door. Def not worth waiting in line. But if you want to try for yourself, go on a week day before the lunch rush and there is no wait.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Aaron P. 1 year ago on Google
    Overall the food was good, the caldo de res was spot on, served with a side of corn tortillas. The red chili sauce on enchiladas was mild, sorta plain. The tacos were good, ask for the green sauce to add a little spiciness to them.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Angela R. 2 years ago on Google
    It was good cafe food, menudo was good... needed some spice and salt on everything.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Cindy R. 3 years ago on Google
    The Menudo was great!! Service was also quick. I so definitely recommend this place. It's a small place but good quality in the food. I even brought home for my kids.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Josh Gordon (Ghost M. 1 year ago on Google
    Food was okay. Was good, but nothing to be excited about. The service is what dropped the stars down though. Extremely rude host and servers. Was obvious they felt people were an inconvenience. They also make you stand outside in line to go sit down to have a meal rather than having a sign in list or anything like all other restaurants in the world do. Their process is just terrible. Even to the point of the host directing people to stand in specific places as she was in a power trip of some sort. Likely won’t go back
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Amanda T. 2 years ago on Google
    You can't visit El Paso and miss a breakfast at the Good Luck Cafe. I visited November 2021, and they are still observing COVID safe distancing between tables, servers are using masks and gloves, and when you enter you are asked to wear a mask until you sit. Supreme food, don't miss out.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Andre S. 2 years ago on Google
    Hot, delicious, Menudo. This place is outstanding. Superb service. The large bowl of Menudo was full. Mad tripe and hominy. The Mexican plate was too much, along with the large bowl of Menudo. Thanks GLC. First timer, 5 star recommended.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Neil C. 1 year ago on Google
    I just recently moved back to the area and was looking for a diner type place to go for Sunday brunch and this placed looked interesting. It's a non-descript building that disguises an amazing restaurant. The staff were friendly, service was good and the food was tasty, the only real complaint I had was a distinct lack of salt. I didn't take off for this as it may have just been an off day as they were extremely busy, which is a good thing. Definitely going to be a regular here.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Bill L. 8 months ago on Google
    The first ever Good Luck Cafe, this is it !!! Came here around 2pm but the entire place still packed, can totally tell how popular and important it is to local citizens. Sometimes, this kind of place is to be visited every once in a while, for the sake of memory 🥹 Ordered their menudo, chicken salad (the fried chicken is well seasoned and crisp), shredded beef tacos, and "work" burger, all very nice.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Eva R. 1 year ago on Google
    I had the menudo, and it did not disappoint. Great service and great food. Prices were not bad either. Definitely a new favorite spot when I come to El paso
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 jammy jam (. 1 year ago on Google
    Haven't been here in over 15 years!!! 😍 Quality hasn't changed. Still amazingly delicious. Ordered a small menudo, double cheeseburger, and machaca plus drinks. Took less than 10 minutes for our lunch to be ready. Hot! Tasty!! Fresh!!! The parking lot is still small. I've seen other diners park in the street. When we arrived the line was long and out the door. We stood in line for about 10 minutes, then quickly seated. When we left, the outside line was twice as long. We got there on a Tuesday in December, so yeah - this place always looks like this, well ... it was like this over 15 years ago 😍 The Best places don't need to ever change.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gray Bear T. 1 year ago on Google
    I've been coming to Good luck for the past 40 years. Nice family run this hole in the wall place. Yes it is old but always clean and authentic mexican food. Best known for their outstanding menudo.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Veronica C. 1 year ago on Google
    My dad used to takes us. The waitress was very nice. The food was good but was left at the counter for a while n my food was cold. My friends hash browns were a little to crispy they brought her some new ones. I thought that was nice. The waitress heard my friend saying why do I always get my hash browns to crispy
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Megan C. 2 years ago on Google
    I have been a server for 5 years. Therefore, I know how the food service industry works. I am aware that certain protocols have taken place upon Covid occurring, as I have also served during those times. I had a horrible, more specifically, the most uncomfortable experience eating here. I can here a long time ago, and after my grandmothers doctors appointment today, I wanted her to try it out. Going in, we were approached and told that there were only 2 tables available, which is understandable due to its 50% capacity. We had the option of 2 tables, both big tables with about 8 chairs, located at the corners of each end of the restaurant. I didn’t mind because my grandma was hungry after fasting for 12hrs before her doctor’s appointment. I noticed after sitting down, that a table left, as the busser was cleaning the table. I also thought it would be more comfortable for my grandma given her age and medical issues, that she would be better sitting somewhere where she is more supported. I asked our waitress if we could possibly move, as I know sections could make it impossible sometimes. She gave me an annoyed look and just walked away. This tall man, who she referred to as the “manager”, came up to us and said, “you might as well stay here. “ and proceeded to tell us repetitively , “you’re better off here, just stay here “ over and over again. Almost like he was persisting or convincing us that we are comfortable here. His next response was very odd because he said “people will get mad.” I’m not sure which “people” he was referring to because I wasn’t asking to sit at a table that was restricted. As he’s saying that and standing there lecturing us for the longest time on how we’re better off there, they sit someone on that table and he says, “ look it’s too late anyways cause we’re sitting someone there right now”. Another table then got up and left, and I asked once it was clean, if we could move to that one . Our waitress then tell us that she needs to ask him first. She took about 10 min to come back and they ended up sitting someone there. Keep in mind, more of the tables that people had been sitting at when we walked in, had already left. She then leaves our food and says “sorry he gets mad.” We felt extremely uncomfortable given the tone, unaccomadating, and unprofessional service. When we were leaving, our waitress gives us our check and says, “Thank you, and I’m sorry for the insults that you took from that man.” Most uncomfortable and unpleasant experience I’ve ever had. I have worked with many managers and servers, and I have never seen anything so weird and arrogant. Do better or don’t work with others. It’s that simple. (If I could give it 0 stars I would, but Google is making me give it 1)
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Guillermo E. 9 months ago on Google
    An El Paso gastrointestinal grandfather! Generations of El Pasoans have grown up eating a great meal here. It's Family run by the original Family. Everyone is make to feel welcome. When you arrive don't let the long line discourage you. Queue up wait your turn and get ready for a happy tummy! I love everything on the menu not a bad choice in the bunch!

  • 5/5 Daniel L. 10 months ago on Google
    Authentic huevos rancheros and simply the best horchata drink to be had anywhere...

  • 5/5 Joe C. 3 months ago on Google New
    Good food. Good menudo. Good price.

  • 5/5 Migi 9. 5 months ago on Google
    Best Menudo in El Paso. Great dishes. They're monthly special or Chile Steak is a must have. (First Fridays of the month except during Lent). I wish they would bring back the counter seating.

  • 3/5 Akanksha M. 10 months ago on Google
    Authentic Mexican joint but limited options (chicken or vegetarian) and short strapped service. The surroundings are a bit shady as well. We almost exited to Juarez, Mexico. A little warning that this is literally on the border would have been good. :)

  • 5/5 Lily S. 8 months ago on Google
    Very busy restaurant. A little wait time. Old school atmosphere. Felt like I traveled back to 1980. Food was hot and flavorful. Perfect spice (hotness) for Mexican food.

  • 5/5 Joshua K. 11 months ago on Google
    Best menudo I have ever had. Military friendly. LOVED this place. I’ll be back next time I’m in town!

  • 5/5 Monica H. 1 year ago on Google
    I have been coming here for 2 years now. My first 10 visits I just ordered menudo. Then another day decided to try a ceviche tostada. Then that’s all I wanted. My next visit was to try the big plate. It never fails. They keep it so simple but the flavor is so consistent and delicious! I’m forever a loyal customer here. Only place I will go out to eat in Cruces too.

  • 5/5 Frank S. 7 months ago on Google
    Old school feel. Amazing menudo with perfectly griddled bread. Hits the spot everytime!

  • 5/5 Alpha Z. 2 years ago on Google
    This hidden gem never disappoints. Early or during the day, it is always a great spot for some comfort Mexican or American food! Everything on the menu is delicious. We come here regularly. Definitely recommend!

  • 5/5 Josie C. 1 year ago on Google
    Food always good! I love ordering "boring Menudo" (no meat). Or any of their daily specials. I like that they skip every other table to avoid Covid or flu. I also like that face mask is required. The wait is long but totally worth it.

  • 5/5 Downey P. 1 year ago on Google
    Very good food! Always clean and fast my stepdad took me here when I was 17 and I’ve been back here and there. Plates are all fantastic and service is very kind.

  • 5/5 Josie C. 1 year ago on Google
    Best "boring" menudo ever! (No meat) great chilaquiles and huevos rancheros. Long line but well worth. I loved that They still ask for face masks a skip every other table.

  • 5/5 JOE L. 1 year ago on Google
    Didn't go inside they brought it to my car. The staff are friendly and very professional! The Good Luck Cafe is an icon to El Paso! I've been going there since 1972 during my high school yrs. It's an awesome place! Great job folks I certainly enjoy going there and highly recommend this place!!👍👍👍👍👍🤗🙏

  • 4/5 C P. 1 year ago on Google
    The green salsa was delious I put it on everything.. The red enchiladas could use a little more heat. Everything was delious! We'll go back!

  • 5/5 Crystal G. 1 year ago on Google
    Definitely a nostalgic place for me to eat and service is great every time I've gone. Their green enchiladas, rice, beans, drink of horchata, and flour tortillas are always the best. Enchiladas are a little spicy if you're sensitive to heat but honestly worth it.

  • 5/5 Robert F. 2 years ago on Google
    My family has been going to the Good Luck Cafe since the start. It is our favorite place to go and get great tasting inexpensive food. I used to love to sit at the counter and watch the men cook all the meals. Honestly they have the best no frills hamburger in town. The green chili is amazing and I can say I have never had a bad meal there.

  • 5/5 Rosalinda Gomez E. 2 years ago on Google
    Service is great. Food is good. I like it.

  • 4/5 Julian G. 2 years ago on Google
    A great place in a not as great location. Good service and food. Menudo on Sunday's is always good. Great place to have a family breakfast.

  • 5/5 Raul R. 2 years ago on Google
    Great service. Low prices. Good food.

  • 5/5 Kendra M. 2 years ago on Google
    Menudo was good, very packed but owner has very good control and organization. Will definitely go back and eat there. I ordered my food to go, was not disappointed.

  • 1/5 Mexaphysics 2 years ago on Google
    I used to come here all the time for their menudo. It was the best in town. I just came back a couple days ago and the menudo was just wrong. Tasted like tomato soup. Certainly gone down hill.


Call +1 915-532-9039 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Parking
    • ✓️ Free parking lot
    • ✓️ Free of charge street parking
    • ✓️ Somewhat difficult to find a space
  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Coffee
    • ✓️ Quick bite
    • ✓️ Comfort food
    • ✓️ Small plates
    • ✓️ Late-night food
  • Popular for
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Breakfast
    • ✓️ Solo dining
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible toilet
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Brunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Dessert
    • ✓️ Seating
    • ✓️ Breakfast
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✓️ Delivery
    • ✓️ Takeaway

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