With a name that translates into “the fire,” El Fuego has been setting Washington Square ablaze since we opened our doors in 2003. Specializing in California-style burritos, our intimate dinery is highlighted by affordable prices, sumptuous portions, fresh ingredients, a friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere that has quickly made us one of Center City’s premiere culinary destinations. Whether you are looking for a quick bite before a night out on the town or one of our signature frozen margaritas, El Fuego is certain to feed your body and soul.

At both locations we show live football (ahem, soccer) matches daily on our HD flat screen television. You and your mates can stop in for a tasty Burrito and cold Cerveza while taking in all of the passion, beauty, and glory of the “World’s Game.”

El Fuego, a minimalist joint in Wash West, isn’t true Mexican. Co-owner John McNamee dubs his fare “California-style.” Basically appealing to the connoisseur, but homogenized for Middle America. Since most of us still fondly recall Chi-Chi’s, this is a good thing.
Food is ordered in a format that would make Henry Ford proud, with a crack staff assembly-lining burritos and quesadillas. Side-note on the staff: They have their share of heart-breakers. El Fuego is known for devilishly handsome bucks behind the burrito bar. Everything ordered is made fresh and on the spot. No microwave or freezer, so ingredients are fresh. Customers say what ingredients they want in their tacos or burrito, and exactly how much of each. Self-serve beverages finalize the deal; or beer, Corona and more the gringo-friendly Yuengling, is available for the quick nip.

I was milling around Washington Square, deciding whether I wanted to hop on the bus or grab a bite, and then I happened across El Fuego. Not one to turn down the promise of pseudo-Mexican food, I decided that a burrito was exactly what I wanted for lunch.

More than fifty years ago, Jarritos was introduced as Mexico’s first national soft drink. Today, Jarritos is the leading brand in the US in the Mexican soft drink category and has become a Mexican cultural icon. Whether it is the distinctive glass bottle or the 12 unique and great fruit flavors, Jarritos can be found throughout the US in major and independent grocery stores, Mexican restaurants, taquerias, catering trucks and convenience stores.