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Local picks

Salsa lunch spots in Nashville

You aren't interested in a lunch that doesn't prioritize the quality of the salsa.

Based on 801 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Little Rey image 1
Little Rey image 2
Little Rey image 3
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Restaurant

Restaurant offers fun atmosphere with front and back porches for outdoor seating and a self-serve salsa bar. The vibe suits groups, families, or solo diners, complemented by strong, refreshing margaritas and flavorful tacos.

Lunch features Tex-Mex cuisine with consistently good food served at a lunch counter style setup. The Arroz Con Pollo Bowl stands out as a perfectly balanced and satisfying option.

A salsa bar offers many sauce options including a caliente salsa that is flavorful and not just hot. The macha salsa stands out as a unique recipe worth trying. Chips pair well with the variety of salsas available.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The tacos here are loaded with meat and flavor."

"The food here is so good, I went back for dinner."

Good to know

1

Little Rey does brunch on weekends from 10am to 2pm.

2

Parking is available but can be limited; arrive early.

3

Reservations are recommended for large parties.

02
Gordo's Taqueria image 1
Taco restaurant

Bright space with original handmade tiles and colorful wall art creates a comfortable, fun atmosphere. Outdoor seating adds to the casual vibe. Known for large portions and classic Bay Area Mexican food, it draws a steady crowd seeking hearty burritos and tacos.

A solid choice for lunch or dinner with consistent visits making it a regular spot. The place earns a reputation as a favorite lunch spot for many.

California-style salsas come with burritos, tacos, and quesadillas featuring meat. The hot green salsa and verde salsa pair well with grilled meat and toppings like pico, guacamole, cilantro, and onions.

People are saying

"I thought their burrito was the best I had in Nashville."

"I considered this my new favorite lunch spot."

"The salsa here is authentic with amazing fresh ingredients."

Good to know

1

The prices at Gordo's Taqueria are affordable.

2

The portions at Gordo's Taqueria are large.

3

Parking is easy at Gordo's Taqueria.

03
The Salty Burrito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, clean space with outdoor seating and wooden beams creates an upbeat, family-friendly atmosphere. A complimentary salsa bar offers multiple salsas and pickled veggies, adding a distinctive touch. The dining room tends to be loud even with few guests, making conversation challenging.

Offers a quick work lunch option with reliable service. Serves as a solid choice for a once-a-week lunch spot on weekdays.

A free salsa bar offers a variety of salsas with multiple heat levels and excellent flavors. Mini containers of various salsas come on request, complementing dishes like burritos and tacos.

People are saying

"The food here is great and served quickly."

"You've gotta try their salsa bar; it's amazing!"

"This lunch spot's food was so delicious, I had to go back."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday is a popular event at the restaurant.

2

The pricing is around $10 for a meal and drink.

3

Parking in the area is paid parking.

04
Mas Amigos Mexican Kitchen image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, renovated space feels like a fancy kitchen with upscale vibe but without high prices. Warm, welcoming atmosphere combines with fresh margaritas and in-house chips and salsas. Tables are spaced far apart, making it easy to navigate and enjoy a clean, spacious setting.

Seating happens immediately during lunch, even on Sundays. Customers often express gratitude after discovering this spot and plan to return.

Chips come with fresh salsa that tastes amazing. All salsas are delicious and made fresh.

People are saying

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

"I thought the salsa was the best around, tasting like homemade."

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Sunday through Thursday until 8 pm, with $6 margaritas and $4 drafts.

2

Parking can be difficult out front, so plan accordingly.

3

The restaurant offers several unique menu items not found at other Mexican restaurants.

05
Birrieria Cielito Lindo Nashville image 1

Small, tucked-away Mexican restaurant with a quiet, welcoming, and family-friendly atmosphere. Brightly lit and clean space offers authentic birria dishes, handmade corn tortillas, and gluten-free options. Fair prices and attention to fresh ingredients create a relaxed dining experience.

Quiet atmosphere during lunch hour makes it a solid lunch choice. The spot works well for a quick, casual meal when nearby.

Chips come with free salsa that has a perfect amount of spiciness. Carne asada pairs with flavorful salsa verde, and pupusas include a hot vinegar-based sauce with pickled cabbage and oregano.

People are saying

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

"The chips and salsa here were amazing and delicious."

"You have to try these quesabirria tacos; they're the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but expect a wait during peak hours.

2

The restaurant accepts cash only, so plan accordingly.

3

Menu items are highly customizable to suit various dietary preferences.

06
Carniceria Y Taqueria Don Juan image 1

Small Mom and Pop drive-through with no indoor seating offers a lively atmosphere and quick service. Outdoor picnic tables provide limited seating without shade. Known for very reasonable prices and authentic tacos with cilantro and onions.

Lunch hour gets busy but moves well. $1 taco day draws a crowd. Local departments often choose this spot for midday meals.

Green salsa stands out with its spicy kick and creamy texture. Both salsa and guacamole taste delicious and complement many dishes.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is seasoned well and moist."

"You can get dollar tacos on Tuesdays, it's a great deal."

"The food at this Lunch Spot was great and seasoned well."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers $1 tacos, making it a popular day to visit.

2

The restaurant primarily operates as a drive-through with limited seating.

3

Prices are very reasonable, especially for tacos and burritos.

07
Baja Burrito image 1
Burrito restaurant

Small shack packed with patrons creates a loud, bustling atmosphere that feels like a well-loved hometown spot. Colorful, fun interior contrasts with tight, cramped seating, while plentiful outdoor seating offers a quieter option near traffic. A self-serve salsa bar adds to the casual, trendy vibe.

Lunch offers real meals under $10 with fast, efficient service even during busy times. Staff handle orders carefully despite the midday rush and long lines.

A spicy salsa bar offers a range of options, including a notably hot choice that stands out. Flavors like pineapple salsa and al pastor complement the dishes well.

People are saying

"This burrito spot is reliably fantastic and has been for years."

"You have to try their fresh salsa bar, especially the pineapple salsa."

"This is a great lunch spot for fantastic burritos."

Good to know

1

You cannot order online or call in your order.

2

The parking lot is challenging to find parking in.

3

Street parking nearby is available as an alternative.

08
Los tres amigos 2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a friendly and cozy environment with authentic homemade salsa and fresh guacamole that stand out. Music stays at a comfortable volume, creating a relaxed atmosphere. The place draws people looking for affordable prices and solid Mexican dishes like fajitas and chimichangas.

Offers good value meals consistently. Food quality stays solid every time for lunch.

Chips arrive with warm homemade salsa roja and a cheese dip. Salsa tastes fresh but has less spice than before.

People are saying

"I considered this the best Mexican food I have had in a long time."

"The homemade salsa here is so good, I wish they sold it."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is fast and friendly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers margaritas for a couple dollars any day of the week.

2

The restaurant closes at 9 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Parking is available nearby, but can fill up quickly during peak hours.

09
Tio Fun! image 1
Restaurant

Colorful decor and a fun bar create a vibrant, inviting space with a lively atmosphere. Patio seating adds a relaxed, neighborhood feel, drawing a diverse crowd. Frozen margaritas and authentic Mexican dishes complement the energetic vibe.

Lunch offers a friendly spot to grab a meal with a friend. Early Saturdays see a steady flow of people enjoying the casual vibe.

Homemade salsa stands out with an incredible verde variety. Chips have a perfect crunch and salt level that pairs well with the salsa.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be great."

"I loved my lunch here; the sauces were delicious."

"The verde salsa here is incredible and has a nice little kick."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-6 PM Wednesday through Saturday with great drink deals.

2

Parking is limited near the restaurant; consider street parking a block away.

3

The menu includes vegan and vegetarian options for diverse dietary needs.

10
Calle Taco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic flavors with a lively atmosphere featuring reggaetรณn music and a salsa bar with multiple choices. The space includes a brightly lit dining room and an outdoor patio for seating. Tacos, especially Birria, stand out as some of the best in the area.

Lunch service features quick and attentive staff with a menu suited for midday meals. The spot offers a casual atmosphere ideal for a relaxed lunch or dinner.

Salsa comes in a plentiful serving with a variety of tasty options including a standout verde salsa. The salsa bar offers plenty of choices that pair well with chips and tacos.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The salsa here is really tasty and plentiful."

"The tacos here are excellent, especially the Birria."

Good to know

1

Calle Taco has a 2 for 1 taco special every Tuesday.

2

They offer late night food until 3am on weekends.

3

Parking costs $11, which some consider expensive.

11
Jalisco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with chill vibes and nice decorations. The place serves authentic Mexican food with standout dishes like shrimp chimichangas and fresh, homemade salsa. Margaritas are a highlight, often described as some of the best around.

Quick service keeps lunch moving smoothly. Leftovers hold up well for next-day meals. Popular spot for coworkers to gather after work.

Homemade salsa stands out with its freshness and authentic flavor. Chips served with salsa come fresh and warm, complementing the dip well.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is awesome and the service was great."

"I found the homemade salsa to be amazing."

"The food and service at this lunch spot were excellent."

Good to know

1

The menu prices are often inconsistent with what you are charged.

2

Expect significant price increases compared to what is advertised online.

3

The restaurant has limited vegetarian options available.

12
El Toro Loco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a cozy, clean space with fresh decor and a quiet, relaxing atmosphere. Outdoor seating provides a beautiful patio ideal for casual dining. The vibe welcomes all ages, making it family-friendly and suitable for date nights.

Lunch offers include specials menu honored even near closing time and meals under $10. The spot serves dine-in lunches with options like margaritas and welcomes groups during the week.

Salsa here is seasoned and fresh with a delicious taste that stands out. Chips come with it, making the combo good and satisfying.

People are saying

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

"The Lunch Spot food here is delicious and of very good quality."

"The salsa here is seasoned and fresh."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers both inside and outside seating options.

2

Prices for dishes start at $8, providing good value for money.

3

The restaurant maintains a high level of cleanliness throughout.

13
El Mariachi Mexican Restaurant image 1

Vibrant, colorful decor creates an authentic Mexican atmosphere with upbeat music and a casual, relaxed vibe. Outdoor seating includes a covered patio with fans for comfort. The place welcomes large groups and offers a family-friendly environment.

Lunch offers affordable specials like chicken fajitas and steak with flour tortillas. Meals come in generous portions and suit both quick stops and relaxed gatherings with friends.

Fresh peppers and ingredients give the salsa a bright, authentic flavor. It carries a balanced spice that starts strong but settles just right, making the chips and salsa a solid snack or meal base.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is authentic and bursting with bold, traditional flavors."

"This lunch spot has a casual atmosphere and friendly staff."

"The salsa here tastes so fresh, like homemade."

Good to know

1

The restaurant accommodates large groups, making it suitable for gatherings.

2

Vegetarian options are available, catering to different dietary preferences.

3

Prices are reasonable, offering good value for the quality of food.

14
LOS TORITOS MEXICAN RESTAURANT MIDTOWN GULCH image 1

Mexican restaurant with festive decor and multiple TVs showing sports creates a lively setting. Live mariachi and band music add to the unmatched vibe. Patio seating offers an additional relaxed space.

Lunch features Tacos De Pollo and plates of nachos. Meals come with beverages and cost around $70 for two. The spot fills up between lunch and dinner rushes.

Homemade salsa pairs with thin chips that stand out for their crispness. The salsa is consistently delicious and served quickly with a friendly vibe.

People are saying

"You should ask for Evan; he's a legendary server."

"I thought the salsa was delicious and just the right consistency."

"This Lunch Spot's food was very tasty and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers free parking for two hours.

2

Parking at the restaurant is easy and free.

3

There is a QR code inside the restaurant that provides free parking.

15
Reyes Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with clean, inviting decor and a classy, comfortable atmosphere. Music volume varies from relaxing to loud traditional Mexican, affecting conversation. Features a salsa bar and handmade corn tortillas prepared in view.

Lunch offers include an Almabres Lunch Special and a chimichanga option. The spot suits a late lunch visit with some specials not always available.

Salsa bar offers a variety of fresh options. Table salsa and chips come out excellent and delicious, especially the green salsa served with chilaquiles.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was great and delicious."

"The salsa here is beyond amazing."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious, especially the cantina style chips."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens every Sunday, starting at 8pm with no cover charge.

2

Chips cost $4.99 after the first order, so plan accordingly.

3

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

16
La Parrilla Fresh Mexican Bar & Grill image 1

Bright festive colors and warm lighting create a happy atmosphere with friendly greetings and lively staff dancing. Seating options include an outdoor patio surrounded by tall pine trees and an indoor bar with multiple TVs showing sports. The vibe blends fun 80's music with a peaceful, welcoming environment.

Lunch features great specials and delicious food. It suits a quick meal during the workday.

Chips come with homemade salsa that tastes unique and fresh. The salsa stands out as divine and is often called the best among Mexican restaurants here.

People are saying

"I loved the food; it was delicious and outstanding."

"The homemade salsa here is amazing."

"The Lunch Spot here is amazing, Cecy always gives hugs."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers 2 for 1 margaritas, making it a great deal.

2

Karaoke happens every Saturday night, providing a fun atmosphere.

3

The restaurant is located within the Quality Suites Nashville airport.

17
West Coast Taco Shop - Donelson image 1

Mexican restaurant with casual atmosphere and quiet background music offers a large dine-in area featuring tables and benches. The space feels sparkling clean and presents an authentic aesthetic. It attracts those seeking Cali style Mexican food with notable burritos and tacos.

Frequent visits show this spot serves excellent lunch options. Groups often gather here for a casual midday meal.

Salsa offers a delightful smoke taste that is noticeable but not overpowering. It carries a moderate spiciness that adds heat without overwhelming the dish.

People are saying

"This Mexican food is top of the line and really good."

"The birria tacos and noodles were fire for lunch."

"The salsa had a delightful smoke taste and was quite spicy."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $6 for a taco, which is considered pricey.

2

They often close earlier than the posted 9 PM, so call ahead.

3

Condiments are limited and may incur extra charges if requested.

18
Taco Bamba Nashville image 1
Taco restaurant

Modern taco restaurant offers communal seating with a sports bar atmosphere and loud music featuring reggaeton and perro. Outdoor patio provides a quieter option with natural lighting and pleasant scenery. A salsa bar with four choices adds to the lively dining experience.

Casual lunch includes RICO Pollo taco and a variety of Jolenas tacos. Serves families and groups with a relaxed vibe.

Green salsa tastes fresh and mild with a strong cilantro presence. The smoky morita salsa stands out as a close second, and the salsa bar invites multiple visits.

People are saying

"The tacos here are seriously good and worth the price."

"Sophia's positive energy and knowledge made the Salsa experience refreshing."

"They were out of horchata again at the Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday between 4 and 7 PM.

2

Free parking is available nearby.

3

Expect to pay around $20 for chips and a margarita.

19
Blue Coast Burrito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Contemporary Mexican restaurant with a relaxed beach vibe and cool interior. Atmosphere feels chill and kid friendly with a variety of fresh ingredients and many salsa options. Portions are generous and prices remain reasonable.

Offers a great lunch experience with satisfying meals. Considered a favorite lunch spot for casual midday dining.

Many salsa options are available, including a notable pineapple salsa that stands out. Some salsas tend to be watery with mild flavor, even when spicy.

People are saying

"I thought the burrito here was amazing and delicious."

"I've never had a burrito with such amazing salsa."

"I loved the burritos at this Lunch Spot, especially the spicy chicken tinga."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers fast casual service with large portion sizes.

2

Prices are reasonable and considered affordable by many customers.

3

There are many salsa options available to customize your meal.

20
Acapulco Burrito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Colorful decor and intricate table designs create an authentic Mexican vibe. Live mariachi and Norteรฑo bands add lively music that sometimes competes with loud background sounds. The atmosphere feels cozy and family-oriented, inviting a casual dining experience.

Lunch offers extremely reasonable prices with specials around ten dollars. Portions like the Pollo loco con queso come large and tasty, making it a solid spot for a satisfying midday meal.

Freshness stands out with the salsa, making it hard to stop eating. Chips and salsa come with a unique flavor and are consistently delicious.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the burritos, is the best and biggest I've ever eaten."

"This lunch spot's food is always hot and delicious."

"I found the salsa so fresh, I couldn't stop eating it."

Good to know

1

Prices at Acapulco Burrito are inexpensive, making it a budget-friendly option.

2

Check the receipt carefully for hidden extra charges that may not be disclosed.

3

The restaurant can get full, leading to longer wait times for service.

21
Rancho Cantina 3 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with lively atmosphere and authentic colors and style throughout. Loud karaoke music fills the space, creating a club-like energy that makes conversation difficult. Features include a salsa bar and a dining area with a new inviting look.

Lunch plates come plenty full and the spot welcomes families with kids. The lunch specials menu lacks dates and pricing can be inconsistent, with some specials not matching the advertised $7.99 price.

Fresh, homemade salsa stands out with vibrant flavor and just the right heat. The salsa bar adds variety, making the chips and salsa a highlight.

People are saying

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

"The salsa here is homemade, fresh, and bursting with flavor."

"The food at this Lunch Spot was fantastic and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens regularly, providing a fun atmosphere.

2

Two-for-one margaritas are available during happy hour.

3

Expect longer wait times for food on weekends.

22
Tequila's Mexican Restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant with neon colors and sugar skulls creates an authentic and festive atmosphere. Live singing and outdoor covered patio add to the lively vibe. Margarita towers and flaming dry ice drinks stand out as unique features.

Lunch here offers a fun atmosphere for groups and a great meal after activities like apartment shopping.

Salsa comes with a never-ending basket of chips and offers a spicy and flavorful kick. The mango salsa adds a sweet twist to the mix.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and a great price."

"I experienced the best Mexican food I ever had."

"The rib-eye taco salad's steak was cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially on weekends.

2

The restaurant offers generous portion sizes, often enough for two meals.

3

Kids' meals are reasonably priced, making it family-friendly.

23
Las Maracas East image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small to medium Mexican restaurant with a heated patio featuring colorful art and outdoor seating. Atmosphere is warm and lively, often filled with large groups and street noise outside. Known for great margaritas and a casual, welcoming vibe.

Quick lunch options include fajita salad and Speedy Gonzales lunch plate specials. The spot offers good value and a cute setting for a fast meal.

Free chips and salsa come with meals. The salsa tastes amazing and pairs well with the chips.

People are saying

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

"I found the food at this Lunch Spot to be great."

"I loved the free chips and salsa they served."

Good to know

1

Parking is available, but the small lot can be difficult to access.

2

Children are welcome, making it a family-friendly dining option.

3

The menu features authentic Mexican classics with generous portions.

24
Los Amigos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious interior with authentic Mexican decor and handmade furnishings creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Booth seating offers secluded yet inclusive dining while pleasant music enhances the relaxed vibe. Stylish tables and custom bar stools invite guests to enjoy their time comfortably.

Lunch here offers a chance to unwind from stress with a relaxed atmosphere. Staff can be hard to find even when the place is empty, which affects service during lunch.

Salsa stands out with its balanced spice and fresh flavor. Chips and cheese dip complement the salsa well, making it a solid choice for dipping.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and fresh."

"The salsa here is so fresh and flavorful, you'll never want to leave."

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

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every third Friday of the month starting at 9pm.

2

On Friday nights, there is a live Mexican band performing.

3

Parking at Los Amigos is always simple and easy.

25
Salsarita's Fresh Mexican Grill image 1

Mexican grill with freshly made chips and sauces offers a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere despite a crowded interior and persistent air conditioning issues. The menu features distinctive tacos and quesadillas with a variety of flavorful options, setting it apart from similar chains.

Frequent visits highlight this spot's appeal for lunch with fresh Mexican grill options and consistent availability. It serves as a reliable choice for midday meals.

Many salsa choices appear at the salsa bar, offering variety. Some salsas like verde and corn show up in very small amounts, sometimes barely noticeable on dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and great."

"The staff here is so friendly and helpful with the nachos."

"The food at this lunch spot was great."

Good to know

1

Kids eat free on weekends, making it family-friendly.

2

Expect a warm dining experience due to air conditioning issues.

3

Nacho Wednesday features special deals on nachos.

26
Casa Fiesta image 1
Mexican restaurant

Classic Mexican decor fills a cozy space with a covered outdoor patio and multiple TVs. Loud rap music and lively energy create a fun atmosphere, especially during peak hours. Amazing margaritas and fresh guacamole stand out alongside humongous lunch portions.

Lunch features a very good menu with humongous portions. Service runs smoothly, though noise from nearby tables can interrupt the meal. Pricing may vary for the same dish.

Salsa comes with a good heat and fresh cilantro, offering a lot of flavor. Chips and salsa pair well with the slightly spicy kick.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and delicious."

"I thought the salsa was great and a little spicy."

"I enjoyed the delicious food at this lunch spot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs on Saturdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Parking is available, but the lot is steep and can fill up quickly.

3

There is outside seating if the noise inside bothers you.

27
Las Palmas Mexican Restaurante image 1

Indoor courtyard offers a bright, cheerful atmosphere with natural light and vacation-style decor. Space fills quickly at peak times, creating a lively, noisy environment. Multiple TV screens show sports, adding to the energetic vibe.

Lunch here fits tight schedules with quick service and accommodating staff. Portions include enough for lunch and leftovers, featuring items like ground beef tacos and cheese quesadillas.

Chips and salsa arrive quickly, often within two minutes. Salsa has a perfect amount of spiciness and ideal consistency, with quick refills on chips.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and top quality."

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

"This lunch spot's fajitas are overflowing with delicious food."

Good to know

1

Taco-Tuesday specials are available every week.

2

The restaurant gets very busy during peak hours.

3

Signing up for the email list provides a $6 off coupon each month.

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