Let me just start off by saying this review is about my experiences at El Portal twice in the last three weeks. Judging from the other reviews here and the signage at this location, I think they closed down this location and reopened recently. So, this review reflects their more recent opening.
Both times I went was for a work lunch meeting. To my surprise, this place was not crowded at all, even when I went during lunch hour. It is a hole in the wall restaurant in downtown Phoenix and it's easy to get lost in the area if you don't have the GPS on. I later learned that this place is very popular among politicians, as it is discrete enough and do not seem to attract the crowd. The two times I went, during lunchtime on a weekday, the other customers here were local politicians or belong to organizations and seem to meet here frequently (I didn't know this personally having only lived in Phoenix for less than a year, but my colleagues told me).
Now, for the actual FOOD. I've gotten the #2 (chicken taco and tostado with rice and beans) and #11 (2 chicken enchiladas with rice, beans & tortilla) from the lunch menu. The chicken taco was alright; nothing too memorable and honestly lacked some flavor. The rice and beans were on point though, which almost compensates for the taco. The #11 was delicious! The enchiladas came out fresh and warm. I'd probably order this again if I come back.
The service has been great. The servers are super friendly and helpful, tho some seem a little shy and not too knowledgeable about the menu when we've asked questions. There's a few parking spots outside the restaurant, and plenty of street parking. Overall, I think El Portal is decent and I'd come back again!