Comparing the lunch and dinner prices on a Mexican menu tells you when to visit for the best value. When you look at the Cielito Lindo Mexican Cuisine Menu with Prices, you will notice that the midday offerings are significantly lighter on your wallet than the evening platters.
This guide breaks down the costs, portion sizes, and the best days to go. You will learn exactly what to expect before you sit down, so there are no surprises when the check arrives.
Cielito Lindo Mexican Cuisine Menu With Prices
This restaurant focuses on traditional family recipes. The menu is split into classic sections: Appetizers, Lunch Specials, Dinner Plates, and Seafood. Below is a clear breakdown of what you will pay for popular items.
Appetizers And Starter Prices
These are perfect for sharing, but they are also filling enough for a light meal.
- Queso Fundido (melted cheese with chorizo) – $8.99
- Guacamole with homemade chips – $7.50
- Nachos Supreme (beans, beef, jalapeños) – $10.25
- Chicken Taquitos (3 pieces with sour cream) – $9.75
Lunch Specials (Monday To Friday)
This is the best value window. Lunch is served from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. You get a smaller portion, but the price drop is significant.
- Two Enchiladas with rice and beans – $9.99
- Taco Salad (ground beef or chicken) – $8.50
- Chile Relleno with one taco – $10.25
- Carne Asada Burrito (wet style) – $11.00
All lunch plates include a small cup of soup or a side salad. Drink prices are separate, but the tap water is free and always available.
Dinner Plates And Entrees
Dinner portions are larger. They usually include a second side item, like extra tortillas or a bigger salad. The price increase reflects the added protein and size.
- Combination Fajitas (chicken and steak) – $16.50
- Shrimp Diablo (spicy garlic sauce) – $17.25
- Carne Asada Plate (with grilled onions) – $15.75
- Chicken Mole (traditional dark sauce) – $14.50
Why Dinner Costs More
The kitchen uses higher-cost cuts of meat for the evening menu. Also, the sides are upgraded. For example, the rice is seasoned differently and the beans are often refried with more cheese.
Seafood And Specialty Items
If you want fish, expect to pay a premium. These items are market priced on weekends, so ask your server first.
- Cocktel de Camarones – $12.99
- Grilled Tilapia with garlic butter – $15.25
- Whole Fried Snapper (Veracruz style) – $19.50
Kids Menu And Sides
For children under 10, the prices are very reasonable.
- Kid’s Bean and Cheese Burrito – $5.50
- Kid’s Chicken Tenders (with fries) – $6.25
- Side of Rice or Beans – $2.50
Drinks And Desserts
Horchata and Jamaica water are $3.50 per glass. Mexican sodas (Jarritos) are $3.00. Desserts like flan or fried ice cream are around $5.00 to $6.00.
When To Visit For The Best Deal
If you are on a budget, go for lunch. The exact same dish, like the Enchiladas Suizas, costs about $4 less before 3 PM. The portions are smaller, but you still get enough food to feel full.
Also, check the “Early Bird” specials if they exist. Some locations offer a 10% discount for seniors on Tuesdays. It is worth asking the cashier about daily specials that are not printed on the main menu.
One thing to note: the menu prices do not include tax. Also, the restaurant adds a mandatory 18% gratuity for parties of six or more. Be careful with the weekend menu, as the prices for seafood can change without notice.
Overall, the value is good for the quality. The lunch menu is the smart play for most people. The dinner menu is better for special occasions or when you want leftovers for the next day. Remember to bring cash if you want to avoid the ATM fee at the front counter. The card reader sometimes has a minimum purchase of $10, so plan accordingly.
If you are comparing the Cielito Lindo Mexican Cuisine Menu with Prices to other local spots, you will find it sits in the mid-range. It is not the cheapest, but the portions are generous. Try the lunch special on a Wednesday; it is usually the quietest day, and the service is faster.