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Guide to Aurora

Lunch and salsa spots

A midday break is only as good as the salsa that comes with it.

Based on 690 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Metro Balderas Aztek Food image 1
Metro Balderas Aztek Food image 2
Metro Balderas Aztek Food image 3
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Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic birria tacos and halal meat options in a clean, colorful space. Atmosphere stays quiet and welcoming with a subtle rock-and-roll vibe. It serves affordable, traditional dishes that reflect Mexico City's culture.

Lots of room makes it easy to bring a group or grab a quick lunch. The spot works well for casual midday meals with ample seating and a relaxed vibe.

A great selection of salsa stands out here, with options like guaka salsa, coffee salsa, tomatillo, and arbol chili salsa. Several sauces come from the cooler, offering a variety of flavors to try.

People are saying

"I found the food to be incredibly authentic Mexico City street food."

"You've got to try the variety of fresh salsas, especially the coffee one."

"This lunch spot's authentic flavors are a hidden gem."

Good to know

1

Most meats offered are halal, making it a great option for those who require it.

2

Prices are around $3 per taco and $14 for four quesabirria with consomรฉ.

3

The restaurant is family-owned and operated by a couple from Mexico City.

02
Pinche Pollo image 1
Chicken restaurant

Bright, clean interior with fresh handmade tortillas and perfectly seasoned chicken creates a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. The place offers generous portions and reasonable prices, making it a solid spot for quick, satisfying grilled chicken meals.

Good food and good service create a solid lunch experience. The place has a high rating and a pleasant ambience that fits well for a midday meal.

Salsas come freshly made and pair well with grilled chicken and tortillas. Onions and chiles toreados add a spicy kick to the dishes.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious and super flavorful."

"The salsas here are fantastic and freshly made."

"This lunch spot's food is delicious, fresh, and authentic."

Good to know

1

The tortillas are made on location for freshness.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of fresh juices.

3

Prices are reasonable, with meals often feeding multiple people.

03
En Fuego Cantina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a fun, welcoming atmosphere and a cool bar featuring big screens for sports. The vibe feels neighborhood-friendly and chill, encouraging socializing at the bar. TVs play requested content, adding to the approachable and lively energy.

Affordable 2 taco lunch special offers good value. Daily lunch specials and happy hour prices keep costs low.

Chips come with house-made salsas that are fresh and flavorful. The green salsa stands out as a popular choice to share alongside queso and guacamole.

People are saying

"I started dancing after the first bite of these tacos."

"I'd go back for the margaritas; they were really good and well made."

"The birria tacos at this Lunch Spot were really good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 2-6pm, with all-day specials on Taco Tuesdays.

2

Enjoy $3 beers and $5 tacos during happy hour.

3

Lunch special includes 2 designer tacos and a soft drink for $12.

04
Tacos Selene Aurora image 1
Mexican restaurant

Casual local taco shop with hole-in-the-wall style and self-serve salsa bar featuring limes, pickled onions, and various salsas. Atmosphere is clean, quiet, and relaxed, offering a comfortable spot for a quick meal. Seating is simple and seat-yourself, emphasizing a no-frills, straightforward vibe.

Busy just after lunch hour, this spot draws a steady crowd. Frequent visits show it serves as a reliable lunch spot with consistent appeal.

Extra hot salsa delivers serious spice with incredible depth of flavor. The salsa bar offers a variety that stands out and enhances the meal.

People are saying

"The tacos here are packed with flavor, especially the al pastor."

"The salsa bar is homemade and super fresh."

"I found the tacos at this lunch spot to be delicious."

Good to know

1

On Taco Tuesday, tacos cost $2 each with options for beef, chicken, and al pastor.

2

Expect no wait times on Taco Tuesday, making it easy to grab tacos.

3

Parking can be tricky to find, so plan ahead before your visit.

05
La Reyna Azteca Tacos Y Tortas image 1

Mexican restaurant with quintessential Mexican decor and bright, freshly painted walls creates a lively, authentic atmosphere. Loud music plays, sometimes overlapping, adding to the cantina vibe. Known for exceptional tortas and birria tacos, it offers a casual, energetic dining experience.

Quick service makes it easy to grab lunch without long waits. The menu features tacos and tortas that come out fresh and flavorful.

Salsa here is extremely spicy and flavorful, especially the red salsa which stands out as exceptional. It pairs well with chips and breakfast burritos, making it a solid choice for a tasty addition.

People are saying

"This Mexican food tastes great and the ingredients seem fresh."

"The salsa here is so spicy and flavorful."

"The quesabirria tacos at this Lunch Spot are delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a total wait time of about 45 minutes for food.

2

They charge $4 extra for sour cream on burritos.

3

Prices for burritos start at $50 for three.

06
GARIBALDI MEXICAN RESTAURANT image 1

Spacious Mexican restaurant with authentic decor and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels relaxing and local. Latino families often fill the space, adding to the genuine vibe. A full bar offers well-made margaritas and micheladas, complementing the flavorful salsa and traditional dishes.

Lunch offers a clean and fast experience with no rush even during busy times. Sharing dishes like the Mocajete Garibaldi works well for families or groups.

Salsa features fresh flavor and a homemade style that pairs well with chips and street tacos. Variations include a habanero-based sauce offering a unique spicy twist.

People are saying

"The authentic Mexican food here makes for great date spots."

"I thought their house-made salsa was perfect with the chips."

"This Lunch Spot's Mocajete Garibaldi sizzled with four meats."

Good to know

1

Prices are reasonable for the portion sizes served.

2

The menu includes unique items like molcajetes.

3

Cleanliness is prioritized throughout the restaurant.

07
Carnitas Estilo Michoacan image 1
Mexican restaurant

Food truck with picnic table seating and a covered dining area creates a modest but functional space. Atmosphere stays pleasant and casual, with an outdoor air conditioner and a condiment bar enhancing comfort. Known for authentic Michoacรกn carnitas and tacos, it draws steady crowds without long waits.

Carnitas stand out as a very tasty option during lunch. This spot works well for a quick, satisfying meal at work and fits the bill as a good repeat lunch spot.

Outdoor seating includes a framed building with a salsa bar. Salsas offer excellent flavor and range from hot to flavorful. The salsa bar enhances tacos and pairs well with carnitas and aguas frescas.

People are saying

"These carnitas are perfectly tender, juicy, and have a crispy outside."

"I loved the delicious carnitas and salsas."

"The carnitas at this lunch spot were the best I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in front, accommodating larger vehicles like semi trucks.

2

The online menu lists the breakfast burrito at $6, but the actual price is $8.

3

Expect generous portions for the price, making it a good value.

08
Piramides Mexican Restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant with beautiful decor featuring blue walls and Mexican table tops creates a welcoming atmosphere that feels lively and inviting. The space includes an awesome patio area and offers Wi-Fi. Large, well-made margaritas complement a menu praised for dishes like birria tacos and queso fundido.

Quiet atmosphere suits a late lunch or casual midday meal. Offers a relaxed setting for drinks and lunch with friends.

Chips come with fresh, sturdy salsa that has a good kick. The salsa tastes rich and flavorful, making it comforting alongside the chips.

People are saying

"The food here is always great and packed with authentic flavors."

"The tacos at this Lunch Spot are the best I've ever had."

"Their salsa is really good and has a nice kick."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a great variety of dishes to try.

2

The restaurant and bathrooms are clean and welcoming.

3

The portions are very generous; many take food home.

09
Chili's Grill & Bar image 1

Restaurant offers a cozy, friendly vibe with a subdued bar area and a peaceful, relaxing atmosphere. It serves large portions and features reasonably priced margaritas that stand out. The place welcomes groups and closes earlier than most grill bars.

Lunch features specials that offer good value. Staff like Blanca prepare meals quickly, making it a solid choice for a casual midday meal with family or friends.

Chips come with free salsa on every visit for members. The salsa pairs well with the crispy chips served consistently.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and great."

"The manager Dan checked in on us at our Lunch Spot."

"I thought the chips and salsa here were good."

Good to know

1

Chili's Grill & Bar closes earlier than most grill bars, affecting late-night diners.

2

Expect longer wait times for booths, especially during peak hours.

3

The restaurant is generally clean and well-maintained.

10
Guadalajara Family Mexican Restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant with vibrant decor and a spacious dining room creates a family-friendly atmosphere filled with live music and multiple TVs. The vibe stays chill and lively, welcoming families and large groups without long waits.

Lunch offers filling specials with portions similar to dinner. Prices stay affordable while providing plenty of food.

Chips come with delicious salsa that balances spice well, especially the salsa verde. The combination makes the chips and salsa a standout part of the meal.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great and delicious."

"The salsa here has a great kick."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour margaritas are available, perfect for a refreshing drink.

2

The restaurant offers large portions that are well worth the price.

3

A lunch menu is available with affordable options and generous servings.

11
El Chubby's Mexican Restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant with lively, warm atmosphere and a nostalgic, home-like vibe. Seating includes lots of seats and a TV by the fireplace, creating a comfortable setting. Fast drive-thru service adds convenience to the vibrant dining experience.

Breakfast burrito and lunch/dinner burritos stand out as go-to choices. Visits cover all meal times, with arrivals just before lunch.

Chips come with included salsa that is medium to medium hot and a bit spicier than usual. The salsa pairs well with dishes like carne asada tacos topped with avocado and lime.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and fresh."

"This lunch spot's food is consistently tasty and affordable."

"I found the chips and salsa delicious and a little spicy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour margaritas are available every day of the week.

2

Taco Tuesday specials offer reasonable prices for large portions.

3

Online ordering is not available before 11:15 am.

12
Santiago's Mexican Restaurant image 1

Small Mexican restaurant with a quiet atmosphere and loud Latin music creates a nostalgic, family-owned vibe. The space is clean but dated, with a functional dining area and visible kitchen staff maintaining cleanliness. Generous portions and reasonable prices attract a steady morning crowd, especially at the busy drive-thru.

Quick lunches focus on chorizo burritos and the smothered deluxe burrito. Food quality and service support easy to-go orders.

Chips and salsa stand out with tasty red salsa and an unmatched green chili option. The salsa pairs well with pea burritos and comes ready for quick grabs, though salsa on the side is not offered.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and came out quickly."

"The lunch burritos here are delicious and quite filling."

"I loved their chips and salsa; they were so tasty."

Good to know

1

Drive-thru service is fast in the morning but can get busy.

2

Expect long lines during peak breakfast hours, especially on weekends.

3

Breakfast service ends at 11am, despite the restaurant being open until 8pm.

13
Guadalajara Authentic Mexican Buffet image 1

Small space fills with dim lighting and crowded tables, creating a loud, busy atmosphere like a Mexican market. Energy feels authentic and homey, with a street-like buffet vibe and 1980s touches. The place draws crowds seeking genuine Mexican flavors in a lively setting.

Lunch offers a buffet priced between $15 and $19.99, making it a straightforward choice for midday meals. A stern bouncer at the door adds an unexpected layer of security during lunch hours.

Salsas here include a molcajete salsa that pairs well with carnitas tacos and a red salsa used on pork ribs and shrimp fajitas. The salsas add authentic flavor to dishes like pork in red salsa and enchiladas.

People are saying

"The Mexican buffet's tres leches cake is a must-try."

"I enjoyed the salsas and found them tasty."

"The Lunch Spot ran out of beef fajita and taco meat."

Good to know

1

The buffet costs $70 for two adults and a child.

2

Expect long wait times as the restaurant gets very busy.

3

Children's ages are asked for pricing; toddlers may be charged as adults.

14
Sabor Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with an old-fashioned aesthetic and sparse seating offers an atmosphere that feels like home, enhanced by Spanish-speaking family staff. The vibe is warm and authentic, with a focus on affordable, generous portions of classic dishes like breakfast burritos and tacos served all day.

Frequent visits show this spot serves reliable lunch options popular among teachers and locals. It fits well for a regular weekday meal with a casual, welcoming vibe.

Salsa comes in spicy red and green varieties that pair well with burritos and nachos. Chips and salsa are served generously, with extra salsa offered at no cost.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"I found the breakfast burritos here to be amazing."

"This lunch spot's food is fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

The prices for breakfast burritos are considered very reasonable.

2

Portion sizes are generous for the price paid.

3

Salsa is provided in small amounts, with extra salsa costing $0.25.

15
3 Margaritas Aurora image 1

Bright, colorful space with festive Mexican decor and blown glass chandeliers creates an authentic cantina vibe. Background music and TVs showing games add to the lively atmosphere. Large sports bar and separate dining room accommodate a packed, hopping crowd especially during events.

Lunch specials run until 3 PM on weekdays and offer a great deal. The spot works well for casual lunches and celebrations with friends or family.

Fresh warm chips come with three different dips including spicy salsa, guacamole, and roasted pepper salsa. The salsa is delicious and served as part of the meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The chips and salsa here are delicious and fresh."

"I found the lunch specials to be a great deal."

Good to know

1

The lunch special is available until 3 PM from Monday to Friday.

2

Kids eat free on Mondays with a purchase of an adult meal.

3

Happy hour offers a buy-one-get-one-free deal on select drinks.

16
La Catrina Tequila & Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with Day of the Dead theme and vibrant decor creates a family atmosphere filled with music and dancing. Outdoor seating complements the lively vibe, while attention to detail in art and design stands out. The place draws people who enjoy festive energy and cultural ambiance.

Lunch offers a delightful experience with a focus on tequila and tacos. Meals come with a vibrant atmosphere suited for midday dining.

Chips come with a well-balanced salsa that has a mild kick and just the right amount of cilantro. Green salsa complements the tacos with a nearly flawless flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and packed with flavor."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was excellent and attentive."

"The chips and salsa were delicious and a great way to start."

Good to know

1

An automatic gratuity is added to bills for parties of three or more.

2

Expect to pay around $160 for dinner for two, excluding drinks.

3

Karaoke nights are held on Thursdays, starting at 10pm.

17
On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina image 1

Mexican restaurant offers a quiet lunchtime with a friendly, welcoming atmosphere and a lively bar area featuring loud TVs and games. The menu includes flavorful margaritas and well-prepared Tex-Mex dishes like brisket tacos and fajitas with quality meat. The place is kid-friendly and handles large groups without wait times.

Lunch features fajitas with good flavor and solid quality. Ordering to go is available, and the setting supports easy conversation during meals.

Free chips and salsa arrive before ordering, with the salsa being notably tasty. The Green Chili Salsa Verde stands out as a great addition to burritos.

People are saying

"You have to try their delicious margaritas with the Mexican food."

"The chips and salsa were served immediately and were very tasty."

"The lunch fajitas were awesome and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted appetizers and drinks.

2

All-you-can-eat enchiladas are available on Mondays.

3

The restaurant has a new rewards program that offers discounts on queso.

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