El Canelo Mexican Restaurant Erie brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico to the heart of Erie. Every dish is crafted using traditional techniques and authentic ingredients.
The restaurant’s inviting atmosphere blends Mexican warmth with a modern Erie twist. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or a casual lunch, El Canelo offers a memorable dining experience.
Located just minutes from downtown Erie, El Canelo is known for its colorful décor and friendly service. Walls adorned with traditional Talavera tiles and hand-painted murals set the stage for a festive meal.
Soft Latin music plays in the background, creating a comfortable ambiance. The open kitchen allows guests to watch skilled chefs prepare each dish.
This comprehensive menu guide highlights signature dishes, daily specials, and customer favorites. Each section includes descriptions, pricing, and pairing suggestions.
Bold ingredients and chef recommendations help you navigate the diverse offerings. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey through Mexico’s rich regional traditions.
Appetizers & Starters
Appetizers at El Canelo are designed for sharing, perfect to kick off any meal. Fresh salsas, hand-rolled taquitos, and cheesy delights showcase the vibrant flavors of Mexico.
Many items are available in half or full portions, allowing flexibility for any appetite. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are clearly marked.
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Guacamole Fresh | Made tableside with ripe avocados, lime, cilantro, and onion. | $8.99 |
| Queso Fundido | Melting Chihuahua cheese served with chorizo and warm tortillas. | $9.99 |
| Taquitos Dorados | Crispy corn tortillas filled with shredded chicken, served with salsa verde. | $7.99 |
| Nachos Supreme | Tortilla chips layered with beans, cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream. | $11.99 |
“The guacamole here is the best I’ve ever had outside of Mexico!” – Local Food Critic
For a lighter bite, try the classic chips and salsa trio. Each salsa—mild, medium, and hot—is handcrafted daily.
Complement your appetizer with a refreshing margarita or Mexican beer. Portions are generous, perfect for sharing with friends.
Soups & Salads
Soups and salads at El Canelo offer fresh, nutritious options. Hearty stews and crisp greens capture the essence of Mexican home cooking.
Gluten-free and vegan choices ensure everyone can enjoy the menu. Each bowl and salad is garnished with fresh herbs and house-made dressings.
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Caldo de Res | Beef and vegetable soup served with lime and cilantro. | $10.99 |
| Sopa de Tortilla | Crisp tortilla strips in tomato broth with avocado and cheese. | $8.99 |
| Ensalada Mixta | Mixed greens, radish, cucumber, queso fresco, and citrus dressing. | $7.99 |
| Ensalada de Nopal | Cactus salad with tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños. | $9.49 |
The Caldo de Res is a local favorite on chilly Erie nights. Ensalada de Nopal highlights regional Mexican ingredients rarely found elsewhere.
Each soup is slow-simmered for depth of flavor. Ask for extra lime to brighten the broth.
Tacos & Taquitos
Tacos at El Canelo celebrate Mexico’s street food heritage. Soft corn tortillas cradle marinated meats, fresh veggies, and zesty sauces.
Customize your taco selection with chicken, steak, pork, seafood, and vegetarian fillings. Served with lime wedges, cilantro, and handmade salsas.
| Taco | Filling | Price (each) |
|---|---|---|
| Asada | Grilled steak with onions and cilantro. | $3.49 |
| Pollo Al Pastor | Marinated chicken with pineapple and onions. | $3.29 |
| Campechano | Mix of steak and chorizo topped with cheese. | $3.99 |
| Pescado | Baja-style battered fish with cabbage slaw. | $4.49 |
“These tacos take you straight to the streets of Tijuana!” – Satisfied Guest
Taquitos remain crispy and flavorful, hand-rolled each morning. Choose from chicken, beef, or potato fillings.
Each order includes six taquitos with guacamole and crema for dipping. Perfect for those craving a crunchy snack.
Enchiladas & Specialties
Enchiladas at El Canelo combine soft corn tortillas, rich sauces, and melted cheese. Choose from red chili, green chili, or mole sauce.
Fillings range from shredded chicken to slow-cooked beef. Served with rice and refried beans for a hearty meal.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Enchiladas Rojas | Chicken enchiladas in house-made red chili sauce. | $13.99 |
| Enchiladas Verdes | Cheese enchiladas in tangy green tomatillo sauce. | $12.99 |
| Enchiladas de Mole | Shredded beef in rich Oaxacan mole sauce. | $14.99 |
| Chiles Rellenos | Poblano pepper stuffed with cheese, battered and fried. | $15.49 |
For the ultimate indulgence, try the Mole Poblano enchiladas. The velvety chocolate-chili sauce offers balanced sweetness and heat.
Each specialty dish reflects centuries of Mexican culinary heritage. Ask your server about daily enchilada specials.
Burritos & Quesadillas
Burritos and quesadillas provide hearty, hand-held meals bursting with flavor. Flour tortillas are stuffed to order and grilled until golden.
Fillings include carne asada, carnitas, and vegetarian options. Served with rice, beans, and house-made salsa.
| Item | Filling | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Burrito El Jalisco | Steak, eggs, beans, rice, and cheese. | $12.49 |
| California Burrito | Carne asada, fries, guacamole, and cheese. | $13.99 |
| Quesadilla Pollo | Grilled chicken and three-cheese blend. | $11.49 |
| Quesadilla Veggie | Peppers, onions, mushrooms, and zucchini. | $10.99 |
Wraps are customizable and available in half sizes upon request. Beef burritos come with sauteed onions and green peppers.
Vegetarian burritos feature black beans, roasted veggies, and avocado. Quesadillas are ideal for sharing as a snack or entrée.
Fajitas & Grilled Plates
Sizzling fajitas arrive on hot skillets with bell peppers and onions. Choose from chicken, steak, shrimp, or combination.
Served with warm tortillas, guacamole, sour cream, and pico de gallo. Perfect for groups craving interactive dining.
| Fajita | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Fajitas de Res | Grilled steak strips with peppers and onions. | $17.99 |
| Fajitas de Pollo | Marinated chicken breast with sautéed veggies. | $16.49 |
| Fajitas de Camarones | Shrimp cooked in garlic butter with veggies. | $18.49 |
| Combo Fajitas | Steak, chicken, and shrimp trio with sides. | $20.99 |
Grilled plates include Arrachera and Alambre options. Arrachera features skirt steak served with nopales and grilled onions.
Alambre combines steak, bacon, peppers, and cheese for a rich flavor. Each plate is accompanied by rice, beans, and tortillas.
Desserts & Sweet Endings
End your meal with classic Mexican sweets that delight the palate. Churros, flan, and tres leches cake are made in-house daily.
Rich caramel, cinnamon sugar, and whipped cream top each dessert. Shareable portions ensure everyone can indulge.
| Dessert | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Churros | Cinnamon-sugar coated dough sticks with chocolate dip. | $6.99 |
| Flan Casero | Homemade custard with caramel sauce. | $5.99 |
| Tres Leches Cake | Moist sponge cake soaked in three milks. | $7.49 |
| Ice Cream | Vanilla, chocolate, or mango sorbet. | $4.99 |
For a festive touch, order the Cinnamon Sugar Sopapillas. These puffed pastries arrive hot with honey and powdered sugar.
Pair with Café de Olla for an authentic finish. Every dessert item is prepared fresh each morning.
Beverages & Cocktails
The drink menu features traditional Mexican sodas, aguas frescas, and house cocktails. Try the signature margaritas made with 100% blue agave tequila.
Non-alcoholic selections include horchata, jamaica, and fresh limeade. Specialty cocktails highlight seasonal fruits and spices.
| Beverage | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Margarita Clasica | Tequila, triple sec, and fresh lime juice. | $9.99 |
| Mojito de Mango | Mango puree, mint, rum, and soda water. | $10.49 |
| Agua Fresca | Choose from horchata, jamaica, or tamarindo. | $3.99 |
| Mexican Soda | Jarritos bottles in various flavors. | $2.99 |
El Canelo also offers a curated selection of tequilas and mezcals. Sample flights allow you to explore different regions of Mexico.
Ask your server about our seasonal cocktail features. Non-alcoholic mocktails are available for designated drivers.
Whether you’re craving a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, El Canelo Mexican Restaurant Erie has something to satisfy every palate. The menu’s breadth and depth capture the diverse culinary traditions of Mexico.
Friendly staff and warm ambiance ensure a delightful visit from start to finish. Plan your next meal and savor the authentic flavors of El Canelo.
