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El Cortez Mexican Bar & Grill

El Cortez Mexican Bar & Grill El Cortez Mexican Bar & Grill is a family-style restaurant located on Golden Lantern. Founded in 1985 by Jose and Amalia Franco, El Cortez offers traditional Mexican cuisine using recipes passed down from the Los Altos region in Jalisco, Mexico. The restaurant provides an excellent atmosphere for a fun family experience and Mexican hospitality. Provecho!

Recent social media posts

06/26/2026

👀 Can't decide what to order? We've got you.
Pause this reel and let fate choose your next El Cortez favorite. 🌮🍹

What did you land on? Tell us in the comments ⬇️ (No cheating!)
Tag the friend you're bringing with you, then come make it happen.

Summer has officially started! Margaritas, Taco Wednesdays, Happy Hour, and long nights are back. 🍹☀️
06/23/2026

Summer has officially started! Margaritas, Taco Wednesdays, Happy Hour, and long nights are back. 🍹☀️

Happy Father’s Day to all the dads, grandpas, stepdads, and father figures who make life a little brighter. ❤️Today we c...
06/21/2026

Happy Father’s Day to all the dads, grandpas, stepdads, and father figures who make life a little brighter. ❤️

Today we celebrate the stories, laughter, and memories shared around the table. Thank you for everything you do.

From our El Cortez family to yours, Happy Father’s Day! 🌮🍻

We’re not saying it’s a red flag… but we’re definitely asking questions. 😅
06/18/2026

We’re not saying it’s a red flag… but we’re definitely asking questions. 😅

Friday plans? Tequila. 🥃Start your weekend with a smooth shot and good company at El Cortez.See you at the bar.
06/12/2026

Friday plans? Tequila. 🥃
Start your weekend with a smooth shot and good company at El Cortez.
See you at the bar.

POV: Your summer goals got delicious. 🌮🌶️🍹
06/05/2026

POV: Your summer goals got delicious. 🌮🌶️🍹

BURRITO SPOTLIGHT 🌯Golden, crispy, and loaded with flavor.Our Chimichanga starts with a deep-fried burrito served on a b...
06/02/2026

BURRITO SPOTLIGHT 🌯

Golden, crispy, and loaded with flavor.
Our Chimichanga starts with a deep-fried burrito served on a bed of fresh lettuce, topped with our melted cheese blend and house salsa, then finished with sour cream and guacamole on the side.
Choose your favorite filling:
🔥 Beef Colorado
🌿 Pork Verde
🍗 Chicken

Which filling are you choosing? 👇

Be honest… which one are you? 👀(And yes, the chips & salsa addiction is very real.)Tell us which one you are ⬇️
05/29/2026

Be honest… which one are you? 👀
(And yes, the chips & salsa addiction is very real.)
Tell us which one you are ⬇️

Summer called… we already grabbed a table ☀️Long evenings, good company, cold drinks, and one less dinner decision to ma...
05/26/2026

Summer called… we already grabbed a table ☀️
Long evenings, good company, cold drinks, and one less dinner decision to make.
Stop on in and stay awhile!

Taco Wednesday eve!☀️Good weather, beachy vibes, ice-cold margaritas, and tacos that just hit different. Stop on in for ...
05/19/2026

Taco Wednesday eve!☀️
Good weather, beachy vibes, ice-cold margaritas, and tacos that just hit different.
Stop on in for the best day of the week at El Cortez!

We’ve got something for everyone! Tacos, margaritas, burritos, combo plates, chips & salsa… the hardest part is deciding...
05/15/2026

We’ve got something for everyone!
Tacos, margaritas, burritos, combo plates, chips & salsa… the hardest part is deciding what to order first
Whether you’re grabbing a casual lunch, dinner with the family, or margaritas with friends, El Cortez is always the move

Address

28971 Golden Lantern
Laguna Niguel, CA
92677

To reach the restaurant at Golden Lantern in Laguna Niguel, you can take public transport that drops off at Crown Valley Pkwy/Golden Lantern. From there, walk south on Golden Lantern until you reach the restaurant.

If driving, take the 5 Freeway and exit onto Crown Valley Parkway. Head west until you reach Golden Lantern and turn left. The restaurant will be on your right-hand side.

Parking is available on-site or in nearby lots depending on availability.

Opening Hours

Monday 10:30am - 9pm
Tuesday 10:30am - 9pm
Wednesday 10:30am - 9pm
Thursday 10:30am - 9:30pm
Friday 10:30am - 10pm
Saturday 10:30am - 10pm
Sunday 9am - 9pm

Telephone

+19494954808

Alerts

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What people say

El Cortez Mexican Bar & Grill is a fantastic family-style restaurant that offers an authentic taste of Mexico. Founded in 1985 by Jose and Amalia Franco, this family-owned and operated restaurant has been serving up traditional Mexican cuisine for over three decades. The Franco family uses recipes passed down from a region centered around “Los Altos” in Jalisco, Mexico, ensuring that every dish is bursting with flavor.

Located on Golden Lantern in Laguna Niguel, El Cortez Mexican Bar & Grill is the perfect place to bring your loved ones for a fun family experience. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with friendly staff who are always happy to help you choose from the extensive menu. From sizzling fajitas to mouth-watering enchiladas, there's something for everyone at El Cortez.

One of the standout features of this restaurant is its commitment to using fresh ingredients. You can taste the difference in every bite, whether you're enjoying their famous guacamole or indulging in one of their delicious margaritas. And if you're looking for something extra special, be sure to try one of their signature dishes like the Chile Relleno or Carne Asada.

Overall, El Cortez Mexican Bar & Grill is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves authentic Mexican cuisine and a fun family atmosphere. With its rich history and commitment to quality ingredients, it's no wonder why this restaurant has been a local favorite for over 35 years. So next time you're craving some delicious Mexican food, head on over to El Cortez - you won't be disappointed!

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