Portillo's Tucson - Tucson, Arizona

Dicey G.

This is what fast food is supposed to be. Service was fast. I had a spicy chicken sandwich, onion rings, and a slice of that sinfully good spice cake.

My order was ready quickly. I received a hot chicken sandwich on a nice soft bun
You know how the picture of the food looks, but you get something smashed in a bag? Not a Portillos! My chicken sandwich was just as pretty as the one in the picture!

The onion rings were hot and crispy. My friend had fries. They were hot and crispy as well. After we finished eating, we went back and got another order of onion rings.

The cake was to die for. I had the new spice cake with salted caramel frosting. The cake was moist, and frosting was creamy and buttery.

The prices are reasonable.

I was going to post a pic the food was so good I kinda forgot.
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Paya T. C.

“Why would you go to a place like Portillo’s and order a fish sandwich? They’re known for their Chicago Dogs, silly.”

“I know that!” I protested to my GF, “but the fish sandwich looked really good on their web site and I _did_ get a dog so I could write a relevant review.”

Well, it’s been a couple of weeks since my visit to Portillo’s and that fish sandwich is a fading memory. But just look at the size of the filet! Unfortunately, the photo I took makes the sandwich look a lot better than how it actually tasted — bland. Maybe their tartar sauce was too sweet — I don’t recall. I just remember thinking I wouldn’t get the fish sandwich again. Too bad, I’d really like to find a great fish sandwich in this town.

As for the dog, I guess I’m not a Chicago Dog fan. I very, very rarely eat hot dogs anyway, so when I do I’m rather finicky. Not really crazy about the ginormous pickle — it was bigger than the sausage. The sport peppers are an overwhelming distraction. And that florescent green relish looked like it should be a dessert topping. I suppose that for someone from Chicago, it probably feels like coming home. But it wasn’t my thing.

I will say the food was very fresh and beautifully prepared. I guess next time I will try a Chili Dog, Polish Sausage or Italian Beef Sandwich — and invite the GF to get her opinion on their dogs.

As for atmosphere, it’s a fun place to visit with that 50’s/60’s diner decor, the booths and all the relics covering the walls. And when coming in from the Tucson midday summer heat, the air conditioning and open, airy feeling are very much appreciated. The service is friendly and efficient and makes you feel welcome.

After my Portillo’s lunch I glanced at the receipt and was surprised to see the total was only $8.69. Then I saw it: “Hot Dog Promo”. The Chicago Dog was only $1. It’s their “Hot Dog Days of Summer” promo where if you order another main (like the fish sandwich), they’ll throw in the dog for only a dollar. The offer is good only on Wednesdays through the summer.

Sepideh J.

Loved the atmosphere. I ordered large fries, a plant-based dog, and lemon cake – all delicious. The staff was great, especially Fabian, who was very polite and helpful. A big thank you to Tori as well – she's hardworking and so sweet, and made sure I picked up my order. Keep up the good work

Mary A. A.

First time trying Portillos at this location I have only ever gone to the one in tempe!! Many places to sit, the atmosphere is great and the interior has vintage/nostalgic like decor. I recommend getting the Italian beef with gravy for first timers!!

I had ordered Italian beef with mozzarella without the bun, the beef was so tender and juicy! I also got a chocolate malt. Great place to hang out with friends and family.

Demetric H.

That beef and sausage sandwich...just wow. Make sure you ask for sweet pickles. Those change the sandwich from good to delicious.

Their crinkle french fries are above average. The have the salt to crispness to soft potato ratio perfected. It is one of the few French fries that doesn't need a condiment.

Their lemon strawberry cake shake is good. Strong lemon cake flavor. Turns out they put too much lemon cake. We got a new one and it had a good ratio.

The chocolate shake actually tasted like the chocolate shakes from when I was a kid.

The rodeo burger is good but I wish the BBQ had a stronger flavor. Can barely tasted any bbq sauce.

Oh and they have beer on tap. There were 4 different types. See the picture.

Juanjohn B.

Stopped for a quick lunch at this El Con location. The line was short, and the service was friendly and efficient. My hot dog and fries order were good, although the fries were not hot or fresh.

Angie M.

Having never been here before, this place is a vibe before you even walk in the revolving glass door. Take a step back in time, with Portillo's fun retro diner atmosphere. There is plenty of space to accommodate large groups, and booths are cozy enough for those who seek a bit of privacy.

While standing in line, undecided as to what to order, a lovely couple raved about everything on the menu. She said we had to at very least try one of their beef sandwiches. Between all of us, we ordered several sandwiches and burgers. From being greeted as we walked in, staff was incredibly friendly throughout the entire process.

Biting into the cheeseburger, my daughter said it was the best burger she ever had. The beef sandwich seemed a bit dry and underwhelming to have a mouthful of meat without any juicy flavor to go along with it. The chicken sandwich was great. I gotta admit the lemon cake and shakes were tempting. Maybe next time.

Portillos does serve beer and wine for anyone interested.

We definitely found a place we can add to our dining options when in the area.

Steve W. -. R. E.

Since I’m from Chicago, and part Italian, Portillo’s is a special place for me. As a kid, my Mom used to take us to Portillo’s for hot dogs and she would always get an Italian Beef sandwich with sweet peppers. It’s wonderful to see how they have expanded around the country and the restaurant experience they have created. After Mom moved to an assisted living in Tucson, my sister and I would all make a long drive to bring her back to Portillo’s, or pick up a sandwich and bring it to her.