For being a chain Mexican joint, I expected more. I'm really surprised to see and hear that it is normally a pretty full guest list being that there was nothing too appeasing. It's authentic staff hardly speaks English, hardly shows up at your table, and is hardly complimentary in any way. The food was terribly bland for a Mexican joint and the margaritas were a little mix heavy. If you have never eaten authentic Mexican, then this place may be just tame enough for the shy. I was really let down that they only had one dish with chorizo and I didn't see nor taste a bit of cilantro on anything. I'm not sure if they're lack of effort is due to the fact that Pittsburgh does not have a very heavy Mexican culture or I'm still caught up of having the excellent service and food from my old neighborhood in Chicago, but I won't be returning here. read more

We have just moved from CA to PA and were looking for a good Mexican restaurant. We tried a few other places since we got here and they weren't very good. El Campesino isn't quite to the level of the really good Mexican restaurants in LA, but it is pretty darn good. The service was great and the food was tasty. Portions are fine and all in all, we were very pleased with our visit. When we want Mexican food in PA, this will be the place. read more

Great place to go to get food poisoning. If you enjoy uncontrollable bowel movements and projectile vomiting this is the place for you! Although the carpet stains were a pain to get out. read more

The food was exceptional. Not greasy, and very fresh ingredients. The service staff was polite and very nice. When the waitress wasn't around to refill our drinks, the bus boy was right there to pick up the slack. No complaints. Will definitely be going back. read more

Love El Camp! The new Wexford location is fantastic. They have a huge outdoor patio. Everything from their chips and salsa to margaritas are great. Recommend it to anyone. read more

I *love* El Campesino. My fiance and I go there as often as we can because the food is amazing. I highly recommend the chicken fajita quesadilla. I get it each and every time. read more

Moved to San Francisco 2 years ago. Live within walking distance to the Mission. Still miss this place. 'Nuff said. FYI: I was addicted to their chips/salsa and always ordered the #11 or #14 combo with a big ol' frosty Dos Equis. Yum. read more

Best salsa on planet earth...purée! Honestly, just like every other Mexican joint with great food but we had an amazing experience with very friendly staff...highly recommend! read more

Great food, excellent service and fast! Only thing is the food is really salty, but very yummy. My 7-year old loves going here.

Totally reasonable. Cheap. Super fast service. Can feed two (with beers) for about $30.

Food is reasonably good albeit standard Mexican fare. I wish the fajitas sizzled like most places - here they're a little too oily. Chips/salsa delicious. Rice/beans very good. One thing I didn't like - maybe others do - but the service was way too fast. Asked 3 times if we were ready to order just after sitting down - with an extensive menu, no, we need a little time. Food was out quick, but then so was the waiter to check, ask if we needed boxes and then the check. All in all felt rushed and there were many open tables still open. read more

I love the food here; always tasty. I always choose one of the vegetarian combos. They also have delicious chips and salsa. The downside is the service is essentially non-existent--leaving you to basically tackle servers to get refills, etc. read more

Really fast service cheap good big ass delicious margaritas bartender was not shy when it came to mixing up some off the menu shit mixology at its finest read more

Used to love this place. Used to get bean for chips whenever you came in. Got fajitas today hardly any meat. Asked for extra shells( only came with 3 tiny shells) got 3 more tiny ones and charged an extra 2.25 pretty sad when you have to charge for something when not given enough read more

I ordered the Carne con Asada tacos and they were soooooo gooooood! I also ordered the Guacamole Dip. I enjoyed the meal. I will definitely return when I come back to Pittsburgh! read more

Great food fast service but up charges for items is ridiculous. Order a combo plate included a cheese enchilada. Asked for onion with the cheese. Check came and there was a $1.50 charge for onion. Mexican food is dirt cheap to make, to charge $1.50 for adding onion to one item despicable. Needless to say NEVER again. read more

The service was slow and the food wasnt even ok. they messed the order up even after taking for ever to get it to us. The only good thing that came out of it is that we didnt have to pay for the food only the rounds of drinks we ordered waiting for it. read more

We went there at 4:30 to beat the crowd for dinner and had to wait 25 min for our food. Generally it's never that long and the food was luke warm also. The food seems to be going downhill as of late which is sad as it was someplace we would go to once or twice a month. I got our bill and gave the waiter the card, signed the papers he brought back and left cash for a tip. I went into my card to pay it a few days later and noticed the amount they billed was $7 greater than what I signed for. Have to go file a report with the CC company now. That is just very shady. read more

Wow, I was thoroughly unimpressed with El Campesino. I'm honestly surprised that Mexican food could be so bland. Our visit started with my husband and I waiting for about five minutes for someone to come to the hostess stand to seat us. We were the only people waiting & there were about 15 tables open. Once we were seated our waitress was quick to come over & take our drink order. She was back in a flash and expected us to be ready to order, but we were not. When she came back to take our dinner order we also ordered a half order of queso to go with our tortilla chips. After about ten minutes our dinners came out. I was impressed but how quick they were to bring out our dinners. My dinner was so bland and I was so disappointed. I had to salt my enchilada & tostada for any flavor. I kept adding salsa to my food to add some spice. I ate half my dinner and called it quits because it was so blah. I kept hoping our queso would come out l, so I could possibly add some flavor to my meal. It never came out. When we asked about it when we got our check our waitress said oh yeah, it's sitting in the microwave do you still want it to go? The waitress seemed taken aback that we wanted it removed from our check. Seriously? We never got it!?!?! Why would we pay for it??? Why would I want cheese that's microwaved? Save yourself from a bland, boring meal and go to Emiliano's, Patron's, Chipotle, Moe's, Qdoba or heck even Taco Bell. read more

I'm wondering how this place stays in business. It was basically the worst Mexican food I've ever had. The chips and salsa were fine, but how are you gonna screw that up? I got a combo with 2 enchiladas, a taco, and rice. Their beef meat is bland, the red sauce they put on the enchiladas, bland. The rice was ok tasting, BUT for some reason that is beyond my comprehension, they put vegetables in the rice. Did they get a chef that formerly worked at a Chinese restaurant? And another BUT, the vegetables they put in the rice must have been from a can of mixed vegetables. It was corn, carrots, peas, and LIMA BEANS! Seriously! Who the heck wants lima beans with their mexican food. Not this guy. Also, the prices were a bit higher than comparable Mexican places. I'll give them a pass on this since the rent on Mcknight road is a little more pricey than other areas, so the food prices might need to reflect that. But I definitely don't recommend this place, it's not like there's not hundreds of other better Mexican places in Pittsburgh. read more

I was in the area and thought I would give this a try despite mixed reviews, and was very disappointed. My dining companion bit into a huge piece of cartilage in his pork. The waitress took his plate and when the manager came out, he proceeded to lecture my friend that he wasn't used to corn tortillas and sometimes they can have hard bits. Once we insisted that no, we understand what corn tortillas are and that was not at all the issue, he put in an order for a different dish for my friend and then came back out and apologized because at that point he had actually looked at the plate and saw what we were referring to. Generally we're both really forgiving if something happens with the plate of food as long as it is handled courteously, and we're not argumentative, we just want to enjoy our dinner, so we were a bit irritated to get an unnecessary lecture as part of our dining experience. This was on top of the food being not that great, and rather expensive for what it is. I really love Mexican food, and found my plate to be not very flavorful. I would not recommend it. read more

This is the real deal IF you like authentic mexican food. Now, if you are part of the taco bell army (of which I have been known to be a soldier) you are in for something very different when you enter "El Camp". I've recommended this place to many a friend only to hear how disappointed they were with the food. This is a normal response if you are used to eating a Bacon Club Chalupa and considering it Mexican gourmet. If you like authentic Mexican or want to try authentic Mexican I've been told by many "authentic mexicans" this is the place to go. This review is for the Monroeville location, located beautifully next to a paper mart and another strip mall staple (your token chinese joint), however between these two common stores lies a delicious oasis of Mole sauce and Poblanos. They have multiple locations all over the city, but I believe this is the original. The other locations are a bit more upscale with a bar and happy hour scene. I go here about once a month or so usually with staff. The meal starts with their delicious home made chips and salsa. They have a couple varieties for those of us who like spicier foods. Some of the more adventorous dishes I've tried were "Chile Poblanos, Two whole poblano peppers stuffed with white Mexican cheese, topped with egg white, rice, refried beans, three tortillas (corn or flour) and ranchero sauce on top." and "Mole Ranchero, Brown sauce made with Mexican spices with shredded chicken, served with rice and choice of guacamole salad or tossed salad.". Both were delicious and unfortunately not having tried these at other spots don't have the background to compare. I can tell you they tasted great and the portions were good. I usually stick to the more basic offerings such as fagitas, tacos, and burritos. They are always cooked perfectly with a generous portion of meats and cheeses and plenty of mexican condiments. I suggest going to this place multiple times and hopefully being a litte more adventorous than me. read more

took my mother here at her request one day. i'm not big into the cookie cutter feel of the north hills so i usually avoid heading in that direction. she had been here before so i capitulated and was not disappointed in the least. very great atmosphere. the view from the top dining area down into the fountain is very nice. very authentic flavor too. i grew up in san diego so i am very familiar with mexican food. i cant remember what mom had but i had the enchiladas with the tomitillo sauce. we both loved our dishes. the service was well above par. our waiter was very courteous and patient as my mother is hard of hearing. he kept our iced teas constantly full during a mediocre early dinner rush. two of us, just dinner, no dessert and with tip it was about $30. acceptable. read more

Went to the one in "The Point". It was horrible. The one in Monroville was good way back, but let me tell you this is BAD. How about serving a chiles rellenos with a green bell pepper? Are you kidding me? The salsa had an old chip in it. Did it come from another table? People are out of their minds thinking this is good. Dirty, run down and horrible. Can't believe anyone would rate it high! read more

I'll say upfront that I'm picky about Mexican food having lived in Texas for sometime. I full well understand that real Mexican food is tough to come by up north. With that being said, I think El Campesino suffices as a serviceable Mexican restaurant in the North HIlls region. When you walk in, you definitely feel a change as the decor screams Mexican. The bar region, where I sat during my visit, was nicely appointed. Plenty of Mexican beers on tap for those who are so inclined. The bar service outside the immediate stools facing the bar-tender was a tad bit slow, especially with regards to food. Speaking of the food: it's good, but nothing to write-home about. Just your standard gringo corn-flake chips with watery salsa. I had the cheese enchiladas which were full of goodness, but didn't necessarily pack the desired punch that I was looking for. Despite its shortcomings, having decent Mexican food at basement prices is a fantastic thing. And for that, I'm grateful. read more

many people said that this was the best place in pittsburgh for mexican food. halves of taco shells as chips? A chile relleno that had more cheese than chile? A taco with taco bell type meat? jesus. the mexicans who work here are laughing at us, i assure you. read more

Fav mexican restaurant in pittsburgh area! My fam always goes here for special occasions, especially if it's a larger party. Amazing food, huge portions, friendly service, good drinks. read more

HORRIBLE FOOD AND EVEN WORSE SERVICE! Lets start with the fact that when I walked in I was told that the specials were half off appetizers margaritas. I decided to order a margarita, which I have to say was great. I also got cheese dip, which although runny, did not taste bad. I ordered from the vegetarian menu for my main course, which I guess means I only eat cheese wrapped up different ways and drowned in bland, most likely canned sauce. My friend ordered the chicken taco salad, which was basically boiled chicken over lettuce. However, her tortilla bowl the salad was in was nice and crispy. Lets note that the booth behind us started raining from the ceiling. I watched several servers walk by and do nothing. I finally told my server and he put buckets around without even mopping up the existing puddle. Apon receiving the check I was told, unapologetically, that the server was mistaken and nachos were actually what was half off and I received no discount. I also had a coupon, which after much arguing I noticed that THE COUPON WAS PRINTED OFF AFTER IT SUPPOSEDLY EXPIRED, therefore it was never possible to redeem it. My check was $32 and when split between me and my friend we got our statements to sign back as $20 each...do the math (we were charged extra from the check). I asked to speak with a manager based on everything. it took 35 minutes to finally get a manager, who wanted to argue and refuse to be reasonable. After $40 minutes of ridiculousness. I decided not to sign and refuse to pay. The restaurant ended up charging me $20, without my authorization (more than I even ordered). I plan on desputing this. read more

A chile relleno is a stuffed pepper, a stuffed chile pepper. Hence the name. Tex-Mex, Cal-Mex, Yucatan, Mexico City, everywhere - it's a stuffed pepper. But El Campesino thinks that it's a clump of tasteless ground meat with a 1/4 inch slice of a green pepper in it somewheres, topped with white cheese. This was about as horrid as Mexico City's so-called 'carnitas.' If you're going to deviate from a standard dish, it would be wise to explain that on the menu. read more

Had dinner here last night. Great waitstaff. The tortillas with my fajitas were so delicate they almost melted as I ate them. Other people in my party liked the mole sauce. Another was able to order according to some food allergies so there was enough choice for everyone. Love the decor! read more

stopped here for lunch a few months ago. complimentary chips and salsa! staff was wonderful but the food was VERY BLAND!! should've known there was only 2 other parties at the time. read more

The food is fast-food unauthentic Mexican. Sometimes you can sit down and order and then receive your food in 5 minutes. The food is usually sloppy and not too tasteful. The staff is somewhat friendly at times. Not the best choice if you are looking for Mexican flavors or even atmosphere. read more

Food is great but service isn't consistently good here. Portions are large, prices are good, and food is quick. But I prefer the quality of the food and service at the Robinson location. read more

Que deliciosa! I love El Campesino. It's the best Mexican place in the Pittsburgh area. There are lots of disappointing Mexican joints, and this is NOT one of them. The food is delicious, portions are large, and it's reasonably priced. I love the hand-painted booths, tables, and chairs. read more

Can 't complain about the service here, there isn't any. Stopped in for lunch, only words spoken to me was how many. I was seated quickly and a waiter walked by, and without saying a word dropped chips and salsa on the table. I waited over 12 minutes without anyone asking what I would like to drink or if I was ready to order. At this point, I simple got up and walked out the front door past the hostess and a few other employees who were socializing. No one said a word to me. So much got ElCampesino. When a customer is in a restaurant, service is a must if you they expect to see the customer again. read more

A huge disappointment. I have heard about this restaurant for years. We tried the north location and will not go back. The taste of the beef was unusual and not appealing. I think my old el paso kit tastes much better. The service is just ok. The waiter appeared annoyed that I asked questions. read more

I'm from South Texas and know what good mexican cooking is, and this is the best in town! I have been waiting for a restaurant that knows what kinds of spices to put in the right foods. I highly reccommend this restaurant for anyone looking to enjoy a wonderful meal that won't break your bank. As soon as you sit down you get chips and salsa for "free" unlike most reastaurants that you have to pay for. Also, if you go to their website www.elcampesino.com you can print a coupon for your meal. read more

Best guac in the city! Excellent food and great atmosphere, the kids also love going to eat here! Thanks~

Absolutely amazing! I went with my boyfriend this week. I am already craving it again. The waiter was amazing. I asked him the difference in the margaritas, he steered me towards the sunset. I could have kept drinking them. They are amazing, slightly on the sweet side. But that's how I like it. Next I got a combination dinner and asked for a chile relleno. He asked if I had ever had them there and then explained the relleno and the poblano and how they make them. Best choice to change to the chile poblano. My boyfriend got a burrito and quesadilla. He said they were both very good. We ordered cheese dip (queso) at the beginning. It was a little spicer than most places I have had it. There was a lot of it and it was really good. The portion sizes were huge. I took home half of my dinner. My boyfriend finished all of his, but was VERYY full. I will definitely be going back very soon! read more

I'm not sure what all these good reviews are about. For my tastes, this place is NOT good. The food is greasy, over cheesed and way too tex mex. They like to slather that nasty brown gravy on everything. We live near by and never go here because the two times we went were so bad. If you've traveled in Mexico, the food is much better and of course varied depending on the region. There used to be a place on Walnut in Shadyside that had similar food but seems to have closed. Reyna foods in the Strip offers great lunches, Fajita Grill is good. read more