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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Washington's best

Chips and salsa bars

A bar visit is incomplete without a reliable bowl of chips and salsa on the table.

Based on 776 Opinions
+773
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Updated April 2026
01
Tapatios Mexican Grill & Cantina image 1
Tapatios Mexican Grill & Cantina image 2
Tapatios Mexican Grill & Cantina image 3
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Mexican restaurant with a cozy, warm atmosphere and a lovely bar offering a variety of fresh margaritas. The space feels clean and inviting, suitable for casual meals or relaxed dinners. Generous portions and authentic flavors create a comfortable, satisfying dining experience.

Cozy atmosphere defines the bar with a lovely setup. The space feels inviting and well-maintained.

Chips come out tasty and fresh with salsa that stands out from competitors. The combination is so good that it keeps people coming back for more.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was amazing, like grandma's cooking."

"I found the bar to be really nice and cozy."

"I found the chips and salsa to be fantastic and tasty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $5 margaritas from 3:00pm to 6:00pm.

2

The restaurant accommodates large groups, perfect for parties.

3

Inexpensive lunch specials are available, filling enough for most appetites.

02
Fuego Restaurant Lounge Ballard image 1

Historic firehouse converted into a sleek Caribbean-Latin fusion lounge with huge TVs and a patio with fire pits. Loud, energetic atmosphere with Latin music and a DJ that keeps the crowd dancing. Frequented for sports viewing and lively weekend parties.

The bar features a lounge area with large TV screens ideal for watching sports. It offers excellent service and a fun atmosphere that livens up after 10 PM.

Chips and salsa come as a free mini appetizer before meals. Portions are generous and the salsa tastes good.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic Dominican and Puerto Rican."

"The food and drinks here are delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"The chips and salsa here are crisp and very tasty."

Good to know

1

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

2

The venue transforms into a nightclub after 9 p.m. on weekends.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially on weekends.

03
La Gloria Modern Mexican Bar image 1

Small space with vibrant Mexican decor and a sizable bar shares room with an Asian restaurant. Lively atmosphere features live mariachi music on Fridays and fresh, well-crafted margaritas. Outdoor seating adds a comfortable option for socializing.

Owner works behind the bar showing clear passion. Drinks are delicious and bartenders like Enrique provide great service.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and always fresh."

"The bar staff here are so attentive and friendly."

"Our waitress Siphiwe was incredible and very attentive."

Good to know

1

This is a 21+ bar and restaurant.

2

Kids are not allowed in the bar area.

3

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

04
Tenoch Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, charming space with cozy vibes and authentic atmosphere feels like a grandmother's home. Live music on some nights adds energy alongside a bar area for a livelier scene. Decor includes plants and art, blending warmth with local character.

Small but fun bar area offers a lively vibe with seating for drinks and meals. One side hosts the bar, the other the restaurant, keeping spaces distinct.

Fresh chips and salsa come with meals like the Pollo Adobada Burrito. The chips and salsa taste above average and often feel perfect alongside the food.

People are saying

"This burrito is the best I've ever tasted."

"Their margaritas are delicious and the habanero salsa has a unique sweet flavor."

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

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays offer a deal with beer and margaritas.

2

Happy hour menu features fun combos and discounts.

3

Parking in the area is easier than expected.

05
Laredo's Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open kitchen and outdoor patio create a cozy, low-key vibe with a mix of dining and sports-watching. Music ranges from lively Mexican tunes to very loud, contributing to a dive bar feel. Regulars enjoy outstanding tequila options and some of the best tacos and enchiladas around.

Full service bar offers a variety of great cocktails including a house margarita. TVs show games, and the atmosphere includes positive bar top chatter with music that encourages dancing.

House-made red and green salsas come with the chips. Both salsas and chips taste fresh and flavorful.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and served in good portions."

"The bar's margaritas are a tradition with friends."

"The chips and salsa here are excellent and tasty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is daily, offering discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Taco Tuesdays feature special pricing on tacos.

3

Fajitas and margaritas are a Thursday tradition with great deals.

06
Isla Bonita image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space filled with colorful, hand-painted Mexican artwork and carved furniture creates a lively, bright atmosphere. Loud and crowded energy mixes with kitschy decor like fake toucans and a pool table. Strong, well-made margaritas complement the authentic vibe.

A great bar with a good selection of drinks and a pool table creates a lively spot. Some unwelcoming stares appear when entering the bar area.

Complimentary chips arrive quickly with flavorful salsa and a side of bean dip. Chips come with beans and cheese options, offering solid and enjoyable starters.

People are saying

"The chips and salsa here are amazing, especially with the bean dip."

"I love the enchiladas here; I get them all the time."

"The bar had a good selection of potent, large margaritas."

Good to know

1

Expect large portion sizes; two people can share one order.

2

Credit cards were not accepted during our visit.

3

Prices for some meals may be higher during holiday weekends.

07
Villa Escondida Restaurant and Bar image 1

Mexican restaurant with a lively bar area and authentic Latin music creates a fun, welcoming energy. Interior feels like a well-decorated dive bar with ample indoor and outdoor seating. The atmosphere balances cool, unique vibes without being too loud.

A fully stocked bar offers a lively but not too loud atmosphere with a fun, welcoming energy. It sits away from busy areas, making it a great spot to enjoy drinks without overwhelming noise.

Fresh, warm chips come with homemade spicy salsa that has a good kick. The chips and salsa stay hot and pair well with drinks.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and tastes truly authentic."

"The drinks here are fresh and flavorful."

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with special drink prices.

2

A 20% gratuity is automatically added to all bills.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider using public transport.

08
Avocados Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant with high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling wood paneling creates an inviting, comfortable atmosphere. Staff engage guests with singing birthday celebrations and lively music, while a large patio offers outdoor seating and fresh air. The vibe feels like a big family gathering, blending festive energy with room to relax.

Dozens of margaritas and a wide range of cocktails fill the bar menu. The bar area looks great and the staff is super nice.

Chips arrive quickly with fresh salsa that stands out. Staff also bring bean dip alongside and check in regularly.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always fresh."

"The chips and salsa here always hit the spot."

"The chips and salsa at this Bar are the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-5pm, overlapping with the lunch menu.

2

A Mariachi band performs live during special events like Cinco de Mayo.

3

Parking can be challenging, so consider arriving early.

09
Tonala Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious interior with modern decor and a full bar creates a lively setting. Atmosphere suits families, couples, and solo diners, often filled with happy Hispanic-American families. Noise levels rise with crowd size due to lack of sound dampening, giving a cafeteria-like feel.

A full bar offers a wide range of cocktails plus red and white wines. The bar area features counter seating and a beautiful setup.

Free warm chips and salsa arrive right after sitting down. The house-made salsa has great flavor and stands out among others in Washington.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here has excellent, complex flavors and heat."

"The drinks and food here are delicious."

"The chips and salsa here have great flavor."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a Seniors menu with discounted meals.

2

Free warm chips and salsa are provided upon seating.

3

Prices are reasonable, averaging about $30 per person for an entrée and drink.

10
Mezcalitos Mexican Restaurant image 1

Fresh tortillas made by hand greet guests upon entry, setting a unique authentic touch. The space offers big comfy booths and a bar area with TVs for games, but the atmosphere leans toward a loud, adult-oriented vibe despite family-friendly intentions.

The bar features a Mezcalitos bar and a TV for catching games. Happy hour runs exclusively in the bar area, which has an enjoyable atmosphere.

Freshly made tortillas lead to tasty chips served with salsa and bean dip. Chips and salsa come quickly and satisfy cravings well.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was the best I had in years."

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

"The bar's margarita selection was extensive and delightful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers food and drink specials from 3 to 6 PM Monday through Friday.

2

Taco Tuesday features special deals on tacos.

3

Reservations can be made ahead of time for dining.

11
Matador Ballard image 1
Mexican restaurant

Stylish Spanish tequila bar and restaurant with vibrant atmosphere and warm lighting creates a cozy, old-world feel. High ceilings and a fire table at the bar add to the unique ambiance, complemented by a lively throwback playlist. Extensive tequila selection and well-regarded margaritas draw a crowd that enjoys happy hour deals and outdoor seating.

Fire tables create a unique focal point at the bar, offering a cozy spot to sit. The bar combines a relaxed vibe with restaurant-quality food and a stylish interior.

Complimentary fresh and crispy chips come with free salsa on the house. Staff offer them promptly alongside drinks.

People are saying

"The happy hour food and drinks are an incredible value."

"This bar has a great vibe and energetic music."

"The complimentary chips and salsa here are fresh and crispy."

Good to know

1

Matador Ballard does walk-ins only and can be incredibly busy at peak times.

2

The kitchen closes at 1 a.m., making it a late-night dining option.

3

Happy hour offers 5 street tacos for $10, a great deal.

12
El Gran Taco Restaurant & Bar image 1

Spacious interior with bright lighting and multiple TVs showing various sports creates an energetic atmosphere. Loud music and live mariachi performances add to the festive vibe. The space features colorful Mexican decor and a well-equipped bar serving strong margaritas and mezcalitas.

Cocktails stand out with their really good quality despite an abbreviated selection. The bar offers a full-service setup and looks well equipped.

Complimentary chips and salsa come with every meal and get refilled often. Servers stay attentive, making sure the appetizer never runs low, and they even pack some to-go.

People are saying

"Their Mexican food catering was a hit at our celebration."

"They kept refilling our chips and salsa, which was a thoughtful touch."

"The Bar staff here felt like family, so friendly and attentive."

Good to know

1

El Gran Taco offers Halal food options, including chicken and beef dishes.

2

Catering services are available for large events, accommodating up to 200 guests.

3

Prices are reasonable and affordable for the portion sizes offered.

13
Yõli Mexican Restaurant image 1

Bright, modern interior blends traditional Mexican decor with a spacious, well-lit layout centered around a casual bar. Atmosphere feels welcoming and lively, with friendly staff and options like karaoke and sports on TV. Menu offers authentic Mexican dishes with generous portions and a variety of cocktails.

Friendly and knowledgeable bartenders create a welcoming vibe. The mix drinks stand out as dangerously good. The bar area feels nice and inviting.

Homemade tortilla chips and salsa come warm and tasty, costing around $4. Sometimes chips and salsa come free, but usually they charge, and guacamole may arrive even if not ordered.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and has fantastic flavor."

"The drinks here are flavorful and bursting with flavor."

"The homemade chips and salsa were scrumptious and perfect."

Good to know

1

They offer $3 tacos on Taco Tuesday.

2

Margaritas are $8 on Mondays.

3

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers.

14
Tacos and beer image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with vibrant Hispanic decor and close seating creates a lively, authentic Mexican cantina atmosphere. Music plays loudly, making conversation challenging amid the energetic crowd. Strong, well-priced margaritas and highly regarded tacos define the experience.

An outstanding tequila selection stands out at the bar alongside an expansive bar menu. Seating is limited with only three seats, and drink service can take a minute.

Crunchy tortilla chips come with fresh, tasty salsa. They offer a solid start with a nice crunch and bold flavor.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here has big, bold flavors and fresh tortillas."

"The bar menu is expansive and the tacos are amazing."

"The chips and salsa had a nice crunch and fresh taste."

Good to know

1

Expect a busy atmosphere during Taco Tuesday around 5:45 pm.

2

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

3

A 3% restaurant fee is added to the bill, making menu prices misleading.

15
Antojos Mexican Grill Tacoma image 1

Mexican-themed decor creates an upscale and inviting atmosphere with comfortable booths and an open fireplace adding warmth. A large open tortilla grill near the entry and a mobile margarita bar enhance the experience. The mood is pleasant and electric, encouraging relaxed, unhurried visits.

Maria behind the bar is hilarious, engaging, and knowledgeable. A mobile Margarita Bar comes around, adding a unique touch to the experience.

Fresh chips and salsa arrive quickly, paired with hot refried beans for dipping. House-made tortillas and a bean dip accompany the chips, creating a solid start to the meal.

People are saying

"I found the food really good and tasty."

"The bartender was hilarious, engaging, and knowledgeable."

"The chips and salsa here are very good, served with bean dip."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 9 PM to close with drinks for $3.99 each.

2

Expect limited parking with tight stalls and potential difficulty leaving.

3

Lunch specials are available daily, offering great value.

16
Las Palmas Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a large dining room and bar, featuring uplifting stencil statements and pleasant salsa music. Atmosphere feels warm and family-friendly, evoking a sense of being in Mexico. Outdoor seating and multiple TVs add to the lively yet cozy vibe.

A typical bar joint with a fairly large dining room and a comfortable bar area where you can sit and watch TV.

Warm nacho chips come with complimentary salsa that tastes fantastic. Kids eat them up quickly because they are delicious.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and has amazing flavor."

"The chips and salsa here are delicious and perfectly spiced."

"It's a great neighborhood bar with a warm, comfortable feel."

Good to know

1

On Saturdays, the place transforms into a nightclub.

2

The restaurant is located at the South end of the Link light rail Angle Lake Station.

3

Expect generous portions at reasonable prices.

17
Fogón Cocina Mexicana image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with fresh tortilla making visible at the entrance creates an authentic vibe. Atmosphere is lively and fun with loud music and close tables, making it energetic but noisy. Decor includes Day of the Dead altar and papel picado, enhancing cultural feel.

The bar offers specialty cocktails and has great service. Miguel at the bar is especially friendly, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

Complimentary chips and salsa arrive during happy hour and taste really delicious. Sometimes a small bean taco replaces the chips, adding a unique welcome twist.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing and the portions are large."

"The food and drinks at the bar were excellent."

"I thought the chips and salsa were excellent and really delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is difficult to find near the restaurant.

2

Happy hour runs daily from 3 to 6 PM with $8 bites and drink specials.

3

Expect a 30-40 minute wait during weekend dinner hours.

18
Santa Fe Mexican Grill & Cantina image 1

Mexican restaurant with a family-friendly atmosphere and a play space for toddlers creates a comfortable and lively environment. Bar area features two TVs for game watching, adding to the energetic vibe when busy. The space feels clean and modern, balancing casual dining with a touch of style.

A charming and gracious bartender runs the bar. Two TVs, including the largest one in the picture, show the game.

Chips and salsa come with the meal and are served alongside food and drinks. Staff sometimes remove the chips and salsa early but offer more after the meal.

People are saying

"The bar's margaritas are fantastic, especially during happy hour."

"You have to try their jalapeño queso dip; it's to die for."

"Chepe made our birthday celebration with chips and salsa so special."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs on weekdays with limited food and drink specials.

2

Taco Tuesday offers special pricing on tacos.

3

Margaritas are available for $8 during happy hour.

19
Angelica's Restaurant & Lounge image 1

Separate dining area offers a family-friendly atmosphere away from the bar. Dim lighting and sports on TVs create a relaxed bar vibe during the day, shifting to loud music and disco lights at night. Comfortable booths and clean tables support a casual, traditional Mexican-American setting.

Friendly bartenders stand out, with both the girl on Saturday night and the guy on Tuesday providing great service. Angelica also delivers solid service behind the bar.

People are saying

"The food here is always good and the drinks are great."

"The food at these dinner spots is always cooked to perfection."

"The chips and salsa here are up to my standards."

Good to know

1

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

2

Karaoke starts at 9pm on weekends with a two-drink minimum.

3

Kids menu options are available for picky eaters.

20
La Palmera Mexican Restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant with modern decor and lively atmosphere featuring loud music and multiple TVs showing sports. It fills up after work, creating a buzzing social scene. Indoor plants add a fresh touch, blending indoor comfort with an outdoor feel.

Eclectic ambience sets the tone with a modern bar area featuring TVs that show sports. Staff in the bar consistently remember and welcome back guests, creating a familiar vibe.

Free chips and salsa arrive right after seating. The salsa is spicy and flavorful, and staff keep the chips refilled efficiently, even for large groups.

People are saying

"The Mexican food drinks are strong and a great deal."

"The bar staff was so friendly and remembered us."

"The chips and salsa here were really good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers all-day deals on food and drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure accommodation.

3

Parking can be challenging; arrive early to find a spot.

21
LITTLE DONKEY MEXICAN KITCHEN AND BAR image 1

Mexican restaurant with stylish decor and unique interior lighting creates a warm, cozy atmosphere. Bar seating includes power outlets and USB-C ports, supporting a lively, social vibe often paired with freshly made margaritas and well-regarded tacos.

Fun bar menu features cocktails and street tacos. The bar has a dim, beautifully lit atmosphere with unbeatable happy hour prices.

Chips come in a large quantity and the salsa ranges from mild to hot. Prices stay modest for the amount served.

People are saying

"I loved the happy hour margaritas and nachos."

"The food and margaritas here are fresh and yummy."

"The chips and salsa here have a hip, inviting atmosphere."

Good to know

1

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

2

Brunch is served on weekends featuring unique dishes like Dutch baby pancakes.

3

Parking is available behind the restaurant, but can be limited during peak hours.

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