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

10/15/2026

Cleaning tip of the day: alcohol works wonders on windows. 🍹😂

As for the margaritas? We’ve got you covered either way, classic or virgin.

10/05/2026

Technically… she did get footage.

09/23/2026

We're open 10:30am - 9pm

09/14/2026

We love our customers. We can still be friends, right?

09/12/2026

Yes, much better.

09/08/2026

A 3-day weekend really had us believing we didn’t have jobs. 😂

Back to work we go, but we’re keeping the long-weekend energy alive with good food, plenty of laughs, and more time spent with the people we love.

Here’s to making time for friends, family, and one more round.

Let us handle dinner. 🤍Steak, rice, beans, guac, and all the good stuff your kitchen probably doesn’t feel like making t...
09/02/2026

Let us handle dinner. 🤍
Steak, rice, beans, guac, and all the good stuff your kitchen probably doesn’t feel like making tonight anyway. See you at El Cortez.

The lies we tell ourselves at El Cortez 😂“I’ll just have a few chips.”“I’m not that hungry.”“One drink and then we’re le...
08/25/2026

The lies we tell ourselves at El Cortez 😂

“I’ll just have a few chips.”
“I’m not that hungry.”
“One drink and then we’re leaving.”

Anyway… see you in three baskets and two margaritas. 🌮🍹

“I’ll just have a few.”Famous last words at El Cortez. 😂
08/21/2026

“I’ll just have a few.”

Famous last words at El Cortez. 😂

National Fajita Day calls for a little extra sizzle. 🔥Hot skillet, grilled peppers + onions, and all the fajita goodness...
08/18/2026

National Fajita Day calls for a little extra sizzle. 🔥

Hot skillet, grilled peppers + onions, and all the fajita goodness you could ask for. You heard the sizzle… now come get it. 🌶️

See you at El Cortez!

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!