Over the last 12 months, the affordability of Mexican food has come under a fair bit of scrutiny. That’s arguably thanks to one restaurant: Good old Chipotle. One of the most prominent Mexican chains around, Chipotle has recently faced a lot of criticism for its continual price hikes, and it doesn’t seem particularly concerned about trying to keep its costs down for customers, saying that it will never offer a dollar menu. This has jarred with the folks who eat there because Mexican food is traditionally a wonderful combination of delicious and budget-friendly, and for some, it felt like the cuisine had reached a new level of costliness that there was no coming back from.
However, we come bearing good news, folks. The Mexican chain restaurant scene doesn’t revolve around Chipotle. The truth is that there are loads of places where you can still get a good meal for a reasonable price. Yes, you have your Taco Bells and Del Tacos, where you can famously eat plentifully on a budget, but there’s also the likes of Chuy’s, Chevys Fresh Mex, and Rosa’s Cafe & Tortilla Factory, which offer slightly more upmarket experiences without a massive cost. With so many options out there, you’ll forget all about that much pricier chain in no time.
Chuy’s
In today’s value-driven restaurant scene, it feels like every eatery is doing as much as it can to offer money off your meal. Well, Chuy’s isn’t doing that. Instead, it makes sure that its dishes are already good value for money, and that you weren’t spending too much in the first place. Chuy’s, which was acquired by Darden in 2024, has a host of reasonably priced entrées. Its tacos and enchiladas are an awesome choice if you want to eat big but spend less (the latter start at just under $13). Its Meal Bundles are also an excellent way to save money if you’re dining with the whole family — and its portions are generous enough that even if you’re opting for a more bespoke way to put your meal together by ordering individual items, you’ll still make sure that no one leaves hungry.
Plus, we absolutely love a Mexican chain restaurant that understands the power of a cheap margarita, and Chuy’s doesn’t disappoint. Its Chuy’s Famous Frozen Ritas start at $7.69, the same price as its House Rocks Margarita. You can get a gallon (yes, a gallon) of frozen margs for under $60, too. All of this is served in an unfussy atmosphere that still allows you to sit back and breathe. We’re big fans.