At El Tapatio, we know a thing or two about enchiladas. They’re warm, cheesy, and flavorful. When you order them, you’re not just getting a meal; you’re getting an experience. They also feature in a well-known saying: “the whole enchilada.” But where did that phrase come from, and how did it become so common?
Why do we say “the whole enchilada”? Join our team at El Tapatio as we explore the origins of this idiom.
An All-Encompassing Idiom
This quirky American idiom has become a popular way to say “everything” or “the entire package.” For example, you might hear someone say, “He didn’t just win the prize. He got the whole enchilada!” But how did a humble, rolled tortilla become a symbol of having it all? The truth is, we’re not quite sure, but we have some pretty good ideas.
The exact origin of the phrase is a bit of a mystery, but it started showing up in American English in the mid-20th century—likely in the 1940s or ’50s. It seems to have grown out of the Southwestern United States, where Mexican cuisine and culture have long had a strong influence.
Some language experts believe the phrase was inspired by the way enchiladas are often served: loaded with meat, cheese, sauce, and toppings—everything wrapped up in one delicious dish. So if you’ve got “the whole enchilada,” you’re not missing a thing. You’ve got the full deal, start to finish.
Suddenly It’s Everywhere
By the 1970s, the phrase had found its way into pop culture and politics. It was used in news articles, TV shows, and speeches, always meaning “the entirety” of something. And while there are similar phrases (like “the whole shebang” or “the whole nine yards”), we’re a little biased toward the one that celebrates one of Mexico’s most iconic dishes.
Get the Whole Enchilada (and Then Some) at El Tapatio!
So next time you’re digging into an order of enchiladas at El Tapatio, remember, you’re not just enjoying a plate of food. You’re biting into a piece of cultural history, one that’s flavorful enough to inspire a whole idiom. And if you’re really hungry? Go ahead and order the whole enchilada. Literally.