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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of New Jersey

Chips and salsa spots

Made for those who judge a meal entirely by the quality of the chips and the depth of the accompanying salsa.

Based on 764 Opinions
+761
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Updated May 2026
01
Fiesta Bowl Sabor Latino image 1
Fiesta Bowl Sabor Latino image 2
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Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with build-your-own bowls and burritos offers a genuine, cultural atmosphere filled with good music and comfortable small tables. The vibe is authentic and lively, attracting those seeking affordable, high-quality Mexican food with generous portions.

Freshly made tortilla chips come with the tacos, paired with a simple salsa. Chips and salsa arrive as a standard side, complementing dishes like the steak tacos.

Freshly made tortilla chips come with tasty, fresh salsa. The house salsa stands out as top notch and pairs well with tacos.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and delicious."

"The salsa here is tasty and fresh."

"The chips and salsa here are served by the kindest owner."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy in the shopping center lot.

2

The restaurant offers generous portion sizes.

3

Menu options are customizable for bowls and burritos.

02
La Colina Mexican Cantina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with festive decor and unique bar creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere filled with great music. The space includes a cute outdoor area and uses iPads for menus, adding a modern touch. Service is friendly and attentive, welcoming even pets with water bowls.

Fresh chips arrive quickly with a bowl of salsa that has a noticeable kick. The salsa and chips come free and are served right after sitting down.

Chips arrive quickly with salsa that has a noticeable kick. Salsas are vibrant and complement the authentic flavors of the food.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and authentic."

"The salsa here had just enough heat to be pleasurable."

"The chips and salsa arrived right away and had just enough heat."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

Reservations are recommended for weekend dining to avoid long wait times.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

03
Cinco De Mayo Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Colorful and hand-carved wooden chairs create an authentic Mexican atmosphere that feels cozy and inviting. The space maintains a pleasantly calm vibe with festive decor and comfortable seating. It attracts those seeking a family-friendly setting with a genuine cultural touch.

Tortilla chips and salsa stand out with their amazing flavor. Chips and salsa come with free refills without needing to ask.

Freshly made homemade salsa and pico de gallo come with every order. Chips and salsa get free refills without asking.

People are saying

"I found the food to be fresh, authentic, and amazing."

"The salsa here is the freshest homemade salsa I've ever had."

"The chips and salsa here were amazing and made fresh."

Good to know

1

They are having a weekend Cinco de Mayo celebration with special events.

2

Taco Tuesday specials are available every week.

3

Parking is conveniently available behind the restaurant.

04
Taqueria Michoacán image 1

Small restaurant with colorful decor and a family-style atmosphere offers a cozy and comforting vibe. Mexican music plays alongside American sports on TV, creating a unique sound mix. Frequent comings and goings keep the energy casual and lively.

Complimentary chips come with a red salsa that stands out for its flavor. The chips and salsa are consistently well prepared and pair nicely with horchata.

Complimentary chips come with fresh salsa verde and red salsa that balance spice well. The salsa offers a spicy, fresh flavor that pairs nicely with horchata.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was really good and tasty."

"The salsa here is so flavorful and delicious."

"The complimentary chips and salsa here are very well prepared."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

The restaurant offers a vegan option on the menu.

3

Prices for tacos are $4 each, which is considered reasonable.

05
NORTE 175 image 1
Restaurant

Cool old mill building with industrial-style decor creates a cozy and fun atmosphere. Bar offers well-stocked drinks including standout margaritas and tequila flights. Space suits both casual dining and events, blending upscale and relaxed vibes.

Fresh tortilla chips come with salsa served on the house. The chips and salsa stand out as top-tier and among the best available.

Homemade salsas stand out with extensive choices including pineapple mango and pineapple salsa paired with fresh tortilla chips. The salsas complement dishes like tacos and a salmon special well.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and nicely presented."

"The homemade salsa here is the best I've ever had."

"I've never had chips and salsa this good."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Bingo events are hosted regularly, providing a fun group activity.

3

Happy hour runs on Sunday and Monday with discounted drinks.

06
Mezcal image 1
Steak house

Steak house offers a stunning interior with hand-painted murals and a unique tequila locker. Loud music from a live DJ creates an energetic vibe, especially on weekdays. Large tables suit groups enjoying show-driven service alongside outstanding steaks and cocktails.

Complimentary chips and salsa arrive fresh and tasty. They create a positive initial impression with their delicious flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is spectacular and delicious."

"Brandon made our celebration special and our experience excellent."

"Brandon made sure our celebration was special and memorable."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended well in advance due to high demand.

2

Happy hour features $10 frozen avocado margaritas on Mondays.

3

A tableside fire show occurs during dessert service for special occasions.

07
Casa Don Manuel image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright colors and traditional Mexican decor create an authentic atmosphere with large rooms and dance floors suited for celebrations. The vibe is family-friendly and kid-friendly, though music levels vary, sometimes causing noise or echo. Strong margaritas and free chips and salsa complement the setting.

Free chips and salsa come with the meal and taste very good. The chips have a crisp texture and the salsa offers a fresh, flavorful kick.

Salsa here stands out for its rich flavor and freshness. Chips come with free salsa, making it easy to enjoy the taste right away.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The salsa here is so good, I could drink it."

"The chips and salsa here are very good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Parking is available in a private lot, but it can fill up quickly.

3

Expect large portion sizes; entrees are generous and filling.

08
Cinco De Mayo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, quaint Mexican restaurant set in a cool house with a cozy, authentic outdoor patio. Friendly, fun atmosphere with lively music and close seating inside. Complimentary tequila shots and desserts add to the authentic experience and generous hospitality.

Warm chips come with great salsa and complimentary cheese quesadillas on the house.

Chips and salsa arrive quickly and free, with the salsa standing out as exceptionally good. The salsa pairs well with cheese tortillas and complements dishes like quesadilla and chicken burritos.

People are saying

"The sizzling fajitas and Bulldog margaritas here are amazing."

"I got complimentary chips and salsa with cheese tortillas."

"I started with warm chips and salsa."

Good to know

1

A 4% fee is charged for credit card payments, which is prominently posted on the front of the menu.

2

They charge for fountain soda refills at Cinco De Mayo.

3

The portion sizes are large, often enough for leftovers.

09
On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina image 1

Mexican restaurant with colorful, happy crowd and cozy interior featuring comfortable seating and Mexican decor. Atmosphere includes loud music that can make conversation difficult. Popular for various flavored margaritas and delicious salsa and queso.

Complimentary chips and salsa arrive fresh and are consistently excellent. They stand out as a favorite and come with takeout orders too.

Complimentary chips and salsa arrive with drinks and snacks. The salsa stands out as consistently delicious and a favorite for takeout. Queso also highlights the salsa experience.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"I thought their salsa was the best I ever had."

"I think their chips and salsa takeout is the best."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 7 PM on weekdays and until close on Thursdays.

2

Parking is always available right out front.

3

There is no wait time to sit on most days.

10
El Asadero Mexican Grill Secaucus image 1

Vibrant interior with cowboy-style attire and authentic mariachi music creates an immersive Mexican atmosphere. Staff wear western gear including boots and sombreros, enhancing the lively vibe. Expertly crafted cocktails and flavorful dishes add to the engaging experience.

Complimentary chips and salsa come with drinks and meals, though portions vary depending on the order. Additional chips and salsa to take home cost extra, and staff clarify portion sizes when serving.

Chips and salsa come with drinks or meals, often served with spicy house salsa on request. Portions vary, with smaller servings given alongside nachos, and guacamole offered shortly after.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and exceeded my expectations."

"I enjoyed complimentary chips and salsa with my adult beverages."

"I loved the complimentary chips and spicy salsa."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM with deals on beer, drinks, and food.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere with mariachi performances on Sundays.

3

Valet parking is available due to limited parking space.

11
Chapala Mexican Cuisine image 1
Mexican restaurant

Large space with a great bar and modern decor creates a comfortable setting. Atmosphere shifts from quiet to lively with a DJ and karaoke, especially during busy times. Known for excellent margaritas and festive energy.

Fresh chips arrive quickly with free salsa that tastes very good.

Salsa comes out quickly with free chips. It features a spiced blend of peppers and tomatoes and is not overly chunky.

People are saying

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

"The salsa was not chunky, full of spices, peppers, and tomatoes."

"I loved the chips and salsa; they came out quickly and were delicious."

Good to know

1

Chapala Mexican Cuisine charges a credit card fee in addition to taxes and tips.

2

Bring cash to benefit from cashback rewards.

3

The restaurant is perfect for large groups or parties.

12
Don Jose Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Authentic Mexican decor fills the space with a south of the border feel and colorful seating. A live mariachi band moves through the restaurant, adding lively music to the casual, friendly atmosphere. The place is often loud and suits families, groups, and friends.

Freshness stands out with fresh chips and salsa served. Timing varies, sometimes they arrive quickly with drink orders, other times only after the meal is nearly finished.

Chips come with fresh salsa that stands out for its amazing flavor. Don Jose's salsa is often noted as the best in town.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is authentic and packed with flavor."

"I thought the salsa here was delicious and fresh."

"The chips and salsa here are always fresh."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-45 minute wait during peak hours without reservations.

2

Mariachi performances occur every Saturday night, enhancing the dining experience.

3

Reservations are recommended for busy weekend nights to avoid long waits.

13
Doña Julia Mexican Kitchen image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant with an open layout and lively music creates a vibrant atmosphere. The space feels like stepping into an authentic kitchen with cultural flavors reflected in the decor and menu. Loud energy fills the room, attracting diners seeking traditional dishes and a festive vibe.

Chips and salsa come with a small serving and cost $5, not complimentary. The chips are small, and the salsa is a blended tomato style that tastes decent but unremarkable.

Chips and salsa come with a decent serving for $5 and taste good. The green salsa stands out as perfect, but chips and salsa are not complimentary here.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be above average."

"The chips and salsa were good, decent serving for $5."

"The chips and salsa here are good and a decent serving for $5."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your own drinks.

2

Chips and salsa are not complimentary; they cost $5.

3

The meal prices are generally fair compared to other local options.

14
Al Chile Mexican Bar Restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant with Day of the Dead-themed decor and vibrant traditional artwork creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Live music, karaoke, and a DJ keep energy lively and fun, especially during celebrations. Drinks like top-notch margaritas and incredible pina coladas complement the experience.

Chips and salsa come only when requested and cost an extra $2. They are not complimentary and not automatically served like at most Mexican restaurants.

Salsa verde stands out with a fresh, vibrant flavor and pairs perfectly with tacos. Chips come with delicious salsa and a hot sauce option that adds a nice kick.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so flavorful and amazing."

"Their salsa is delicious and pairs perfectly with chips."

"I snacked on their delicious chips and salsa while I waited."

Good to know

1

They have private parking, which is convenient for customers.

2

Happy hour offers $1 tacos on Taco Tuesday all day.

3

Karaoke night is popular and has great sound quality.

15
Los Cuernos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating offers a vibrant atmosphere featuring live music and a DJ. The space includes a bar with polished wood counter and a big screen showing sports. The vibe blends Mexican and Latin influences with festive decor and a lively party space.

Free chips and salsa start the meal and are tasty enough to leave some leftovers. They serve as a satisfying appetizer that complements the meal well.

A bowl of house salsa arrives with homemade chips in a woven basket. The salsa tastes fresh and flavorful, making the chips and salsa an incredible starter that can leave leftovers.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the tacos and margaritas."

"I thought the salsa was the best I have ever tasted."

"The complimentary chips and salsa were delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7 PM on weekdays and all day on Sunday.

2

Draft Modelo or Voodoo Head IPA is only $5 during happy hour.

3

Late happy hour is available every day from 10 PM till midnight.

16
Jalapeno Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with vibrant colors and a recently renovated bar offers an energetic atmosphere fueled by live DJs and dancers. Outdoor seating includes a cute backyard that adds to the lively vibe. Loud music and spirited crowds create a party-like environment where strangers mingle easily.

Tables get complimentary tortilla chips and salsa right after seating. The chips and salsa taste fresh and good and come with the meal, covered by a gratuity fee.

Fresh chips and salsa arrive promptly and free at the table. The salsa stands out as one of the best items, paired well with the complimentary tortilla chips.

People are saying

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

"You get complimentary chips and salsa right after you sit down."

"The chips and salsa they bring you are fresh and good."

Good to know

1

A 20% gratuity is automatically added to all bills.

2

Parking is available in front and at the back of the restaurant.

3

Taco Tuesdays offer tacos at $2 each with a minimum of 5 per order.

17
El Asadero Mexican Grill Fort Lee image 1

Decor revives Mexican hacienda tradition with Talavera wall plates and wooden furniture creating a warm atmosphere. Live Mariachi band performances add vibrant energy, while outdoor seating offers a relaxed vibe. Family-friendly setting features unique touches like a life-size horse at the entrance.

Complimentary tortilla chips and salsa come with orders. Chips have a great crunch that pairs well with dishes like octopus. The salsa is consistently excellent.

Complimentary chips and salsa come with every order. The salsa tastes freshly made and pairs well with the crunchy chips.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"I got complimentary chips and salsa with a great crunch."

"I got complimentary chips and salsa with a great crunch."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7 PM with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Taco entrees are half off on Tuesdays, making it a great deal.

3

Wednesdays feature a steak dinner special with mashed potatoes and a glass of wine.

18
Don Jose Mexican Restaurant East Hanover NJ image 1

Colorful, festive decor creates a vibrant Mexican theme throughout the space. Live music, including a strolling guitarist and mariachi band, adds an authentic atmosphere that feels lively and engaging. The setting suits family gatherings and relaxed dinners with a fun, cheerful vibe.

Warm, crisp chips arrive quickly with salsa that has a balanced spice and tang. The salsa adds just enough kick to awaken the appetite.

Chips come warm and crisp with salsa that has a good balance of spice and tang. Hot nachos arrive quickly, paired with great salsa that adds just enough kick to awaken the appetite.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and delicious."

"The salsa here has just enough kick to awaken your appetite."

"The chips and salsa here are amazing with a good balance of spice."

Good to know

1

The BYOB policy allows guests to bring their own drinks without a markup.

2

There is plenty of free parking available for customers.

3

Expect a wait of about 10 minutes for a table during peak hours.

19
East LA image 1
Mexican restaurant

Historic former ice cream parlor with festive decor and warm lighting creates a chill vibe that feels like a living room. Outdoor seating draws a lively crowd, especially for frozen margaritas and socializing. Atmosphere can get loud and cramped during busy times but remains enjoyable.

Chips and salsa arrive fast and keep coming steadily. The salsa pairs well with fresh, crispy chips and complements the margaritas nicely.

Chips and salsa arrive quickly as a welcoming gesture, paired with water. The salsa stands out as unbelievably good, often regarded as the best in the area.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is great, and the service is outstandingly friendly."

"I've never had salsa and chips this good."

"I always looked forward to the chips and salsa."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 3:00 to 6:00 PM with half-off margaritas and appetizers.

2

A 20% gratuity is automatically added to all bills, so check your total.

3

The restaurant is not wheelchair accessible, which may be a concern for some visitors.

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