Checking the price of the shrimp fried rice before you order tells you whether this place uses fresh seafood or the frozen variety. When you look at the Chapala Cafe Menu with Prices, you can quickly spot the difference between a quality meal and a reheated plate. This guide breaks down the costs so you know exactly what you are paying for before the waiter walks away.
Chapala Cafe serves classic Mexican comfort food. The menu is large, but the prices stay fair for the portions. You will find everything from street tacos to full seafood platters.
Chapala Cafe Menu With Prices
Below is a breakdown of the main categories. Prices are close to current averages, but always confirm with your server because they do change with market costs.
Breakfast And Brunch Options
Breakfast is served all day. That is a big win if you wake up late.
- Huevos Rancheros – $12.99
- Machaca Con Huevo – $13.49
- Chilaquiles Verdes – $11.99
- Carne Asada Breakfast Plate – $15.99
The breakfast plates come with beans, rice, and tortillas. The machaca is shredded beef, not ground. You get a decent amount for the money.
Lunch Combination Plates
Combination plates are the best value on the menu. You pick two or three items.
- Two-item combo (taco, enchilada, tostada) – $10.99
- Three-item combo – $13.49
- Shredded beef or chicken – no extra charge
- Carne asada or adobada – add $2.00
These plates include rice and beans. The enchilada sauce is house-made and has a slight kick.
Seafood Dishes And Prices
This is where the price tells you the truth. If the shrimp cocktail is under $10, walk away. It is likely frozen and small.
- Shrimp Fried Rice – $16.99
- Camarones A La Diabla – $18.50
- Fish Tacos (3 pieces) – $14.99
- Shrimp Cocktail – $15.99
The shrimp fried rice at $16.99 uses medium-sized shrimp. They are not the tiny salad shrimp you see elsewhere. The diabla sauce is spicy, so ask for it on the side if you are sensitive.
Specialty Dinners
These are the heavier meals. They are meant for one person, but the portions can feed two if you share.
- Carne Asada Dinner – $17.99
- Chile Verde – $15.49
- Pollo En Mole – $14.99
- Costillas De Puerco – $16.49
The carne asada comes with a grilled jalapeño and green onion. The mole is not too sweet, which is rare.
Appetizers And Sides
Do not fill up on the free chips. The appetizers are worth the extra cash.
- Quesadilla Suprema – $9.99
- Loaded Nachos – $10.49
- Guacamole Fresco – $7.99
- Cheese Crisp – $5.99
The guacamole is made to order. You can watch them mash the avocado at the salsa bar.
Drinks And Desserts
Horchata and Jamaica are $3.99 for a large glass. The flan is $4.99 and is the best way to end the meal.
How To Order Smart At Chapala Cafe
Follow these steps to get the best deal.
- Check the daily specials board near the register. It is not on the printed menu.
- Ask if the shrimp is fresh or frozen. The server will tell you straight.
- Order the combo plates if you want variety. They are cheaper than two single entrees.
- Skip the bottled soda. The house-made agua fresca is bigger and better.
One thing to note: the prices on the online menu are sometimes lower than the in-store menu. The restaurant updates the physical menu first. If you see a difference, trust the paper menu.
Also, the lunch specials end at 3 PM on weekdays. If you arrive at 2:45, you can still order. At 3:01, you pay full price. That is a five dollar difference on some plates.
Service is fast during the week. Weekends get crowded, and the kitchen slows down. Go early on Saturday if you want quick service.
Overall, the Chapala Cafe menu with prices is fair for the quality. You are paying for fresh ingredients, not frozen shortcuts. The seafood prices are higher than the beef dishes, and that is a good sign. It means they are not cutting corners on the expensive stuff.
If you are on a budget, stick to the two-item combo and a water. If you want to splurge, get the shrimp fried rice and a side of guacamole. Just remember to check the price first, because the market rate for shrimp does fluctuate. That $16.99 plate today might be $17.50 next month. It is still worth it.