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Salsa lunch spots

A lunch spot where the salsa has a distinct, fresh character instead of tasting like it came from a generic jar.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Antonio's Mexican Fresh image 1
Antonio's Mexican Fresh image 2
Antonio's Mexican Fresh image 3
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Open kitchen reveals food preparation behind a clean, modern dining room with a view of the arch. Quiet seating areas and a salsa bar with fresh ingredients create a relaxed atmosphere. A drive-thru and slot machine add convenience and unique entertainment to the authentic Mexican dining experience.

Lunch includes options like a breakfast burrito and carne asada. Meals suit casual celebrations and quick stops.

Spiciest salsa is oily and seasoning-forward with a bold flavor. Salsa bar offers a mild verde salsa with fresh taste and a hot salsa with a noticeable kick.

People are saying

"The Drive Thru burrito was massive, satisfying, and packed with fresh ingredients."

"This Lunch Spot has a variety of good options."

"The burrito was massive, packed with fresh ingredients and salsa."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a fast drive-through service for quick meals.

2

On Wednesdays, street tacos are on sale for about $1.15 each.

3

The Tuesday taco deal offers five tacos for $6.

02
Mestiza image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with authentic tacos served on home-like dishware and a fast food, order-at-the-counter setup. Atmosphere feels calm and inviting with quiet Mexican music and videos of Latin performances playing. A family-friendly game at the table adds a unique touch to the experience.

Lunch here suits groups well, with options that accommodate both small and big groups. The spot works for casual meals with friends or larger gatherings.

A tray of four salsa options comes with tacos, letting you try different flavors. They also offer a complimentary taco to sample all their salsas, which is a unique touch.

People are saying

"I loved trying their many unique and special tacos."

"I enjoyed trying many delicious salsas on the savory tacos."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required for parties of up to 13 people.

2

Mestiza has a small menu focused solely on tacos.

3

Handicap parking is available on-site.

03
Los Patios MX Cocina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor patios with natural light and dog-friendly seating create a relaxed vibe. Interior features authentic Mexican decor with a modern touch and ample seating. Energy stays cozy and inviting, making it a popular spot for casual gatherings.

Lunch offers steak fajitas, steak tacos, and a-la-carte chile relleno. Fast service supports a smooth midday meal.

Chips arrive quickly with perfect salsa and a white sauce that stands out for its unique, tasty flavor. The combination of salsa and sauces makes the starter amazing.

People are saying

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

"The lunch spot food came out in minutes."

"The salsa here is fantastic and fresh."

Good to know

1

Parking is available right in front of the restaurant.

2

Food portions are generous for the price paid.

3

The restaurant offers a good selection of vegetarian options.

04
El Mayor image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open space with bright lighting creates a lively and friendly atmosphere, though it can be loud at times. Fun mariachi music adds to the energetic vibe. The decor is modest and plain, focusing more on the dining experience than ambiance.

Lunch offers reasonable prices with options like Carnitas tacos. The menu suits groups well and delivers great food and service.

Salsa has a great flavor with a little kick and leans spicier than medium. The green salsa stands out as very good, served fresh alongside hot chips.

People are saying

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

"I found the salsa to have a great flavor with a little kick."

"The food at this lunch spot is excellent, especially the fresh guacamole."

Good to know

1

Most entrees are under $15, making it an affordable option.

2

Expect short wait times for seating and food.

3

The restaurant offers vegetarian options on the menu.

05
La Oaxaqueña image 1
Mexican restaurant

Colorful space with vibrant music and a lively atmosphere creates a festive vibe. It offers authentic Oaxacan cuisine with many uncommon dishes and handmade tamales. The setting feels cozy and casual, blending traditional Mexican elements with a strip mall backdrop.

Lunch features $3 margaritas and picaditos that pair well for a solid midday meal.

Salsa offers perfect heat and flavor with a homemade touch. It pairs well with non-watery queso and complements tacos and Choripollo nicely.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's tamales are amazing and perfectly spicy."

"I found the Mexican cuisine here to be truly authentic."

"I thought the complimentary salsa was really great."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays feature 0.99-cent tacos, grilled or fried.

2

$3 margaritas are available during lunch hours.

3

Drink specials are offered nightly.

06
Amigo Sole - Mexican Streetfood (Delmar Loop) image 1

Small space filled with hand-painted murals and a photo booth creates an authentic, vibrant setting. Lively music enhances the atmosphere, making it feel warm and inviting. Tables inside and outside offer casual spots to enjoy Mexican street food.

Offers quick bites suitable for solo or group lunch breaks. Food quality stays consistently good for both lunch and dinner.

Chips come with fresh house-made salsa including guacamole, verde, and pineapple chipotle. Spicy options like Diablo salsa offer a strong kick, and staff often provide extra samples to try.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The street tacos and salsa here are amazing and delicious."

"This lunch spot has the best street tacos I've ever had."

Good to know

1

You order at the counter for a quick dining experience.

2

Takeout is a good option due to limited seating.

3

The menu online and in-store may differ significantly.

07
El Potro Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with an unassuming storefront offers a cozy, authentic vibe and friendly atmosphere. Plenty of TVs show local sports, sometimes with live entertainment, creating a casual energy. Known for great margaritas and fresh, flavorful food like campechano tacos and homemade salsa.

Lunch centers on a taco stand with a few other options. The Steak Fajitas lunch special stands out as a solid choice.

Fresh chips arrive with homemade salsa that has a unique flavor. The salsa tastes scrumptious and complements the chips well.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is authentic and flavorful, especially the mole."

"The al pastor tacos here are amazing and fresh."

"I thought the food at this lunch spot was amazing and great."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers authentic Mexican and Honduran cuisine.

2

Parking can sometimes be difficult to find, especially during busy times.

3

The menu features Tex-Mex dishes with a home-cooked quality.

08
Doña Gloria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic dishes with freshly squeezed margaritas and spacious patio seating. Atmosphere feels cozy and inviting but music plays loudly, affecting conversation. Clean, colorful space combines indoor and outdoor areas with comfortable seating.

Quick and friendly service stands out during the lunch rush. The lunch offerings are consistently delicious and satisfying.

Two salsas come with house-made tortilla chips, featuring a red salsa with a little kick and a fresh, flavorful salsa verde. Both salsas show clear care in preparation and bring a nice level of heat.

People are saying

"This Mexican food has the best burrito I've ever had."

"The salsa here is fresh and full of flavor."

"The lunch here was delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not sell alcohol at this time.

2

The prices are super cheap compared to most authentic places.

3

There was free street parking available near the restaurant.

09
Dos Reyes Mexican Restaurant image 1

Small space offers indoor and shaded patio seating with a relaxed, chill atmosphere that feels like Mexico City. Outdoor patio attracts those seeking a comfortable spot on nice days, while margaritas, especially jalapeño and spicy varieties, stand out as a highlight.

Lunch features daily deals and specials like the Quesabima 2 Taco plate. Options include a chimi with onions and bell peppers and grilled shrimp.

Freshness stands out with the fresh chips and salsa served. The red salsa is very good, and a spicy salsa kept in the back offers more heat than the sweeter one served with chips.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was awesome and affordable."

"This lunch spot's tacos are so tasty, especially the El Pastor."

"The salsa here is amazing and tastes great."

Good to know

1

Margarita Monday offers special drink deals every week.

2

The restaurant has vegetarian options available on the menu.

3

Parking is easy and accessible near the restaurant.

10
El Catrin image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor patio and rooftop seating create a vibrant atmosphere with loud club music that fills the space. Large groups gather here, often talking loudly to be heard over the sound. Margaritas and Mexican dishes like steak tacos and stuffed chiles are popular, adding to the lively energy.

Lunch offers large portions that can cover two meals. The steak fajita stands out, served with attentive and friendly service on a pleasant patio.

Chips come with super fresh salsa that tastes great. The salsa stands out as some of the best Mexican food flavor around.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and always good."

"The chips and salsa here are incredible and super fresh."

"This lunch spot's Mexican food is outstanding and well-prepared and tasty."

Good to know

1

Parking is available behind the restaurant, but it can be inconvenient.

2

The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor dining options.

3

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

11
Taqueria Hectorito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor patio with Mexican music creates a lively, authentic atmosphere. Modest, unassuming setup focuses on street-style tacos served quickly and affordably. Small, local-feeling space draws a crowd seeking real Mexican flavors without pretension.

Offers a quick work day lunch option with a casual vibe. Serves reliable meals suitable for a family lunch or a fast bite during the day.

House-made salsas come in salsa verde and regular versions. Both have a hot but not crazy spice level.

People are saying

"I thought these were the best tacos I've ever had."

"This Lunch Spot has amazing, flavorful tacos with plenty of meat."

"The salsa here is hot, but I liked it."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers dine-in, carry-out, and Uber Eats delivery options.

2

Prices are very affordable, making it a budget-friendly choice.

3

Expect quick service; food is ready in minutes after ordering.

12
Chava's Mexican Restaurant image 1
Tex-Mex restaurant

Tex-Mex restaurant with vibrant decor and bright colors creates an authentic Mexican atmosphere. Outdoor seating includes a lively patio and sidewalk tables. The space is loud and crowded, offering a fun and energetic vibe.

Lunch features chips and amazing salsa that can fill you up before the main dish. Outdoor seating offers a relaxed spot to enjoy a michelada and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Chips and salsa come complimentary and stay full thanks to attentive service. Drinks, chips, and salsa cups never run empty, making the salsa experience continuous and satisfying.

People are saying

"The chicken fajitas here are so tender and tasty."

"The queso here is fantastic and yummy."

"I got chips and salsa right after we sat down."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6 PM with drink specials.

2

Parking is available in a lot near the restaurant.

3

The restaurant does not have a kids menu, despite being labeled as 'kid friendly'.

13
Mi Ranchito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Large space filled with huge authentic Mexican artwork creates a warm and lively atmosphere where diverse groups gather to enjoy meals. The vibe is festive and upbeat, making it suitable for families and friends. Exceptional margaritas complement the overall experience.

Lunch specials cost less than $10 and offer great value. Shrimp fajitas and chicken soup stand out as popular dishes. Many find it a reliable spot for affordable, tasty lunches.

Free chips and salsa arrive with meals, featuring a mild flavor and freshly made quality. Staff regularly bring extra servings, ensuring a generous amount accompanies dinner.

People are saying

"The food here is always delicious and made with care."

"This lunch spot has amazing Mexican food, especially the fried tacos."

"The chips and salsa here are plentiful and free."

Good to know

1

They offer $8 lunch specials that are a great deal.

2

Curbside pickup is available if you call ahead.

3

Expect a wait time of about 25 minutes for to-go orders.

14
Chevys Fresh Mex image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a laid-back atmosphere with a nice patio and street view. The vibe ranges from quiet and clean to loud and lively during busy times. Margaritas stand out as strong and tasty.

Lunch offers good food with satisfying flavors. The spot works well for a casual meal and handles occasions like Mother's Day.

Homemade salsa stands out with a chipotle flavor that pairs perfectly with the delicious chips. The salsa consistently impresses as fresh and flavorful.

People are saying

"I'd come back just for the queso; it's amazing."

"The chips and salsa here are always good."

"I ordered the crispy chicken flautas for lunch."

Good to know

1

Half-price margaritas are available on Wednesdays.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted appetizers.

3

Parking can be challenging due to the busy road next to the restaurant.

15
Crazy Bowls & Wraps image 1
Health food restaurant

Modern, bright space with outdoor seating offers a welcoming atmosphere for quick, healthy meals. Noise travels easily due to hard surfaces and lack of soundproofing. Food options include fresh chips and diverse wraps, with convenient online ordering and drive-thru access.

Fast service keeps things moving even during the busiest lunch hours. The staff on the lunch shift are consistently excellent and attentive.

Lots of salsa and sauce samples come with the meal. Chips always arrive with plenty of salsa, which helps balance the dryness of the chicken.

People are saying

"The staff at this Lunch Spot are excellent and keep the place spotless."

"This fast food is fresh, healthy, and well-prepared."

"They had lots of salsa and sauce samples to try."

Good to know

1

Online ordering is available for quick pick-up at the restaurant.

2

This location features a drive-thru for added convenience.

3

The restaurant offers healthy meal options suitable for the Daniel fast.

16
Kimchi Guys - Laclede's Landing image 1

Small dining space uses self-ordering kiosks and QR codes for ordering. Atmosphere stays chill despite sticky floors and warm temperature inside. Korean dishes offer distinctive flavors with some standout items like fried chicken tacos and bulgogi bibimbap.

Great for grabbing lunch near Gateway Arch National Park and downtown. Food is suitable for a quick meal and fits well for a casual lunch spot.

Kimchi salsa offers a unique blend of flavors that pairs well with the tortilla chips. It complements dishes like the beef bulgogi kimchi fried rice bowl effectively.

People are saying

"The American Food, especially the wings and fries, is amazing."

"The Bibimbap Bowl with spicy chicken is a great lunch spot."

"The kimchi salsa here is amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking is standard on the Landing and may be difficult to find.

2

The restaurant does not accept cash; only card payments are allowed.

3

Restrooms are available and kept clean for customers.

17
Chimichanga's Mexican Restaurant image 1

Roomy Mexican restaurant with bright, updated decor and a kid-friendly atmosphere. Background music sets a fun, lively vibe that complements conversations and sports viewing. Known for excellent margaritas and authentic, flavorful dishes like seafood alambre and street tacos.

Lunch offers plenty of food with reasonable prices. The lunch special provides good value and includes dishes like the fajita quesadilla.

Chips come with good salsa that is tasty and not very spicy. The salsa stands out as great and enjoyable alongside the chips.

People are saying

"The Mexican Food margaritas were affordable and flavorful."

"The lunch spot here is a great value for the price."

"I thought the salsa was great and really tasty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible with a back gate for easy entry.

2

Happy hour runs until 9 pm with special drink prices.

3

Taco Tuesday offers unique specials not available on other days.

18
El Indio Manchester image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with all-you-can-eat chips and salsa and strong, flavorful margaritas. Atmosphere shifts from loud and busy to relaxed and vibrant, with wooden booths and high-backed chairs creating a cozy but slightly cramped space. Clean environment offers photo-friendly displays and a friendly vibe.

Lunch features shredded chicken enchiladas in a special combo. Service includes friendly servers who engage with guests. Chips served during lunch sometimes arrive burnt.

Warm chips come with fresh salsa served quickly after seating. The salsa stands out as a half step above most similar spots, complementing dishes like quesadillas and burritos.

People are saying

"You've got to try the tacos; they're delicious."

"The chips and salsa here are great, a half step above most."

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

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays offer $1.50 tacos, making it a budget-friendly option.

2

Margaritas are just $1 on Mondays, perfect for a cheap night out.

3

Expect a short wait time even during peak hours.

19
Los Arcos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with Mexican-style theme designs and oversized booths creates a homey atmosphere with mellow guitar music. It offers outdoor seating and a small bar area, including a separate room for large parties. The vibe is friendly and affordable, with free chips and salsa served before meals.

Outstanding service stands out during lunch, with the owner providing personal attention. The lunch fajitas offer a very good meal option.

Chips and salsa come free and get refilled without asking. The salsa is mild with a little spice and very flavorful, paired with crispy, flavorful chips that lean saltier than usual.

People are saying

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

"The service here is prompt and friendly."

"This lunch spot has fantastic, authentic Mexican food."

Good to know

1

During Cinco de Mayo, live music is featured at the restaurant.

2

Parking is available and generally not a problem.

3

The restaurant does not have a liquor license, so no alcohol is served.

20
El Agave Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, colorful space with vibrant decor and a beautiful bar setup creates a festive, homey atmosphere. Outdoor patio offers pleasant, relaxing seating while indoor areas feel lively and authentic. Frequented by those seeking top-notch margaritas and generous, flavorful Mexican dishes.

Lunch specials offer good value and are very affordable. Staff remain friendly during lunch visits.

Chips and salsa arrive right after sitting down, with salsa served in a small carafe. The homemade salsa pairs well with thin, crispy chips that taste fresh and flavorful.

People are saying

"I loved their chips and salsa; they were perfect."

"The salsa here is flavorful and perfectly spiced."

"The chips and salsa at this Lunch Spot are homemade and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Thursday nights feature $2 tacos, a popular special.

2

Expect a wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant has a dog-friendly patio area.

21
Global Quesadilla Company image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small setup with no indoor seating offers quick service through an outdoor walk-up window. Friendly atmosphere suits those grabbing food to-go, featuring large portions and a varied menu beyond quesadillas. Only cane sugar sodas are available, and the location lacks a drive-thru or indoor access.

Lunch comes quickly, especially just after the lunch rush. Meals cost around $13.99 and offer a quick option but may not feel worth the price.

Salsa has a good kick and lots of flavor. It tastes fresh and delicious.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and served quickly."

"The quesadilla here is loaded and cooked to perfection."

"I thought the salsa was delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

There is no indoor seating; ordering is done at an outdoor walk-up window.

2

They only serve cane sugar sodas, no Coke or Pepsi products.

3

The serving size of the quesadilla is quite large.

22
Taqueria El Bronco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy Mexican restaurant with authentic street tacos and strong margaritas creates a vibrant, family-oriented atmosphere. Soccer plays on every TV, adding to the lively energy. The place is known for affordable prices and a packed crowd, especially on Taco Tuesday.

Lunch specials include a variety of tacos, burritos, and quesadillas at affordable prices. The tacos and chilaquiles offer solid flavors, though there is no air conditioning in the dining area.

Two salsas come with the chips, one mild and one hot. The chips and salsa are free, with the mild salsa being non-spicy and the hot salsa adding some heat. The salsa tends to be watery and the chip portion is small.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing; I always leave satisfied."

"I loved the mild and hot salsas served with the chips."

"This lunch spot's authentic Mexican flavors are a must-try."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during busy days like Cinco de Mayo.

2

Street parking is available, but the restaurant has no dedicated parking lot.

3

Prices in the restaurant may be higher than those listed online.

23
Amigo Joe's Mexican Restaurant and Cantina image 1

Mexican restaurant with a kitschy neighborhood dive vibe featuring carpeted floors and many TVs. Atmosphere stays cool and relaxed, often quiet between rushes, with music controlled by patrons through an app or live bands. Offers both indoor and outdoor seating on a patio.

Salsa comes in several varieties like ranchero salsa and salsa verde, all served with generous portions. Chips and salsa arrive in large amounts, often with multiple bags and constant refills.

People are saying

"I loved the Mexican food; the portions were massive and thoughtful extras were included."

"The salsa here has fresh flavors and a spicy kick."

"You've gotta try the spicy chicken at this Lunch Spot; it's so flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging, but there's a lot a little ways down the street.

2

They have different specials every day of the week.

3

Margarita deals on Monday and Tuesday offer great value.

24
Chilanguita Mexican Kitchen image 1
Mexican restaurant

Colorful umbrellas and neon lights create a vibrant patio with many fun selfie spots. Music plays loudly, featuring authentic Mexican tunes that encourage dancing and add to the lively atmosphere. The bar area feels eclectic and relaxed, complementing the overall festive vibe.

Veggie burritos come with sides and guacamole that stands out. Lunch tends to be on the expensive side compared to other Mexican spots.

Salsa comes out super fresh and not spicy. Staff keep chips and salsa constantly refilled with quick, friendly service.

People are saying

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

"The salsa here is amazing and flavorful."

"The service here is amazing and second to none."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Thursday night with a DJ accommodating requests.

2

Taco Tuesday offers unbeatable deals on tacos.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink specials.

25
LA CRAZY Margarita image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright colors and vibrant decor create a lively Mexican restaurant atmosphere. Music and bartender entertainment add to a fun, energetic vibe. The space combines a casual bar feel with family-run charm and unique artistic touches.

Lunch offers great value with inexpensive and delicious entrees. Portions like the fajitas are generous, and specials include dishes such as enchiladas mole that are satisfying enough to take home.

Spicy salsa stands out with complimentary chips and free nachos served alongside. The salsa is consistently delicious and comes with to-go orders.

People are saying

"The food here was fun and delicious."

"The food at this lunch spot is delicious and amazing."

"I loved their complimentary chips and salsa."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the lot across Grand Avenue.

2

Expect to spend around $20 to $30 per person for a meal.

3

The restaurant automatically adds a 15% gratuity for bar orders.

26
San José Mexican Restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant with beautiful building and outdoor seating offers a charming atmosphere that suits solo diners, couples, and families. The space inside is roomy, and the outdoor area feels peaceful. Strong, flavorful margaritas and standout tortilla chips complement the overall experience.

Lunch here offers a shaded patio setting ideal for groups or work events. It suits both casual and team lunches with space for gatherings up to seven people.

Chips come hot, thin, and crispy with salsa that is spicy and flavorful. The salsa pairs well with the chips and adds a delicious kick to the snack.

People are saying

"The fajitas here are flavorful and come out sizzling."

"The nachos at this lunch spot are great!"

"The salsa here is spicy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Cash is preferred as they charge a fee for card payments.

2

Portions are large enough to share, making it a good option for groups.

3

Parking is available nearby, but the garage entrance is small.

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