Experience Avon's Mexican food at these fantastic spots.
“"I've been looking around a while You've got something for me Oh, I've got a brand-new pair of roller skates You've got a brand-new key" (Melanie) They are brand new, and have some service issues to iron out, but our dinner from the brand-new Salsa Fresca in Avon was excellent. If you're familiar with the menu and the ordering process at Chipotle or Moe's, you'll feel right at home at Salsa Fresca. You order your food by moving down the ordering line "Subway Style" and select 1) your style -Burrito, Bowl, Tacos, Salad, Nachos or Quesadilla, 2) your protein - chicken, 2 kinds of beef, pork, or roasted veggies, 3) your extras -cheese, guacamole, pico, corn, beans, etc. You can customize your meal as above or go with one of their "Signature" dishes or specials. All choices come with a bag of very lightly salted chips and a container of fresh salsa. We ordered a chicken quesadilla and a customized "Made to Order" Salad Bowl with Chipotle Chicken. They totaled $23 after tax and before tip. My salad bowl included Mexican rice, chicken, lettuce, pico, roasted vegetables, fajita onions and peppers, and a spicy salsa. It was a HUGE portion, I liked it a lot, and thought it tasted great. My wife's chicken quesadilla looked pretty stacked with chicken, and her portion was big enough that we know what we'll have for dinner Saturday night. Being so new, we definitely saw some improvement opportunities on the service side. #1 - Each individual order is to include a small bag of chips and a container of salsa. We had to ask for our second bag, and there was no second container of salsa. #2 Our experiences while ordering and while signing up for their Rewards Club did not go smoothly and required a more experienced worker to jump in and navigate the serving line and get us signed up on line. #3 After we signed up for the Rewards Club, the screen flashed a message "Congrats for signing up -you get a free guacamole and 50 points for joining". The server said we get the free guacamole NEXT time, not now, which is 1,000% at variance to what we saw on the screen. Eventually, she conceded our point and gave us one of those 1/4 cup containers of guac., which by the way was fantastic. But it was disappointing to have to argue for it. Bottom Line? The food was excellent, portions were big, and the overall value is very good. On a side note, yesterday was their soft opening, and all customer orders were free, But I was disgusted to hear about one piggish customer that ordered 14 things and probably needed a wheelbarrow to transport his free bounty. What a greedy pig!“
“I stop in here easily once or twice a week since I work very close by and the service, food, and staff are all great. While I wouldn't call my order complicated, I do have a standing "special request" for a couple extra Southwest vinaigrette on the side and every time the staff sees me they grab it for me. It may be a small thing, but working in this industry I know attention to detail matters. While I don't know any individual names of the employees, I recognize the same few people most time and just wanted to give them a shout-out, hoping that the company and management above them takes notice. This work isn't easy and I appreciate them!“
“Very loud and echoey.Asked for an unsweet tea ended up getting a Lipton lemonade tea.I really wanted to give this place a bad rating cause of obnoxious customers but as soon as the food arrived 5 stars isn't enough.This is the best Mexican food I've found this far north.Got the Mexican menu breakfast burrito sub chorizo and bacon.HOLY COWSavory, salty, spicy and tasted amazing!I'll definitely be saving this place and visiting any time I'm in the area.“
“This place has become a weekly stop for me. I hit it up at the start of the week and by mid week I'm already thinking about my next visit. These are great tacos starring some amazing handmade tortillas and flavorful meat fillings. After trying some other taco spots in the area I've come to the conclusion that if these aren't 5 star tacos then 5 star tacos don't exist.“
“Quaint spot with authentic Mexican food. Pricing is good and portions are large. The staff was great. They were attentive to us and helpful with ordering.Parking: Parking is located in front, the back lot, and on street.Kid-friendliness: They offer a kids menu.“
“The food is amazing, let me tell you how flavorful the shrimp was.. I only ate one empanada and shrimp taco and was full but it didn't go to waste believe that I had to share this with the fam. I'm giving this place a solid 8.7. Only issue is that they only accept cash and they close at 8, but they have very good customer service. Look at the plating presentation even tho it's a to go order they take their time out for each order.“
“Ever since moving here from Texas we’ve been looking for good Mexican food. It is rare to find a place with authentic “sazón” but this place makes the cut. Being of Hispanic descent, we tend to be pretty picky about Mexican food but it was excellent. Their bar is well stocked too and the drinks were on the money. The atmosphere is a bit crowded but I would expect that from a place that’s as good as this. The owner stopped in to say hello, chatted a bit and really made us feel welcome. We’ll definitely be back and likely make this one of our regular spots.“
“This place is one of my favorite restaurants to go out with the family enjoying good atmosphere food and pleasant service.This place is one of my favorite restaurants to go out with family enjoying good food, atmosphere and pleasant service.“
“Cool hidden spot with a nice variety of Authentic Mex food !Vegetarian options: Many substitutes for most item on the menuParking: Open / safe more than 20 availableKid-friendliness: Small and a few tables to sitWheelchair accessibility: Flat & easy access“
“I can't say what I like best, because it is all delicious. I usually get the enchiladas huertenas because I can't decide if the mole, red sauce, or green sauce is better; they are all equally wonderful. So are their tender, flavorful tamales. even their chips & salsa are a cut above. Pickup during the pandemic is fast and painless, which we appreciate.“
“i have been to bartaco a few times now and i always have a great experience! i went with my dad and sister earlier today and got the new cauliflower pistachio rice bowl and a couple of mushroom tacos. i’m SO glad they have tasty vegan options. kiki was super helpful and made great suggestions! highly recommend :) “
“Will definitely be back! Highly recommend the fried chicken taco (amazing), fish taco, and churros (the dulce de leche dip ?). Had the special dahlia sour cocktail and it was so yummy! It’s a smaller place, but service is quick and super friendly.“
“Nice place! Very authentic Mexican both in ambiance and the food. We had chicken quesadillas and carne asada tacos - they were perfect. Great taste, hot and plentiful. The server was very friendly and attentive to us the whole time. We were traveling through and found them on Yelp. Excellent choice!“
“The word "hidden gem" is throw around often in the foodie world. So often enough, that it's almost annoying when people use it because when you go to the business's Yelp page they have 10,000+ reviews. Lol. Well, it's obviously not hidden very well is it? Anyway, Salsas 4 Taqueria IS a hidden gem, but hidden in plain sight...Atmosphere/Appearance: Set right in a old-looking plaza with a state credit union, a regular bank and a learning center of sorts is this gem. The outside just doesn't look like much and the sign isn't too elaborate either. There is parking out front of course since it's in a plaza so there's nothing to worry about. Once inside it's just like a traditional Mexican spot. Dimly lit, colorful walls painted with the colors of the Mexican flag, cheap wooden chairs and exposed brick. It's exactly what you want to see from a place like this.Service: I've never eaten inside the restaurant because I always order online. This place doesn't even have its own website because they don't need it. You can order online through various services, but I personally go through Yelp. So I just go in, give my name and my order is usually ready.Food: So on their menu is something I've never seen before called a tlayuda. It's a handmade dish in traditional Oaxacan cuisine, consisting of a large, thin, crunchy, partially fried or toasted tortilla covered with a spread of refried beans, asiento (unrefined pork lard), lettuce or cabbage, avocado, meat (usually shredded chicken, beef tenderloin or pork), Oaxaca cheese, and salsa. Tlayudas are typical of Oaxaca and receive their name thanks to the particular texture of the tortilla. Unlike a soft tortilla, like those we usually see at taco stands or in the store, tlayudas are usually larger, heavier, and more consistent than a soft tortilla. They offer 4 types and I went with the Guelaquetza Tlayuda which is protein heavy filled with carne asada, chorizo, and al pastor. This this is SO DENSE and so delicious! I'm 5'9", 260 pounds and I could only eat half of this thing. It was so filling and I LOVED IT. It's the only thing I've ever eaten from here. Lol.Value: The Guelaquetza Tlayuda is $18.00 and 100% worth it. Period.I loved this place! It's nearby to where I live so I plan on paying this place many more visits in the near future!“
“We were interested in finding a New Mexican restaurant in our area and were excited when we found Don Bigote. I was blown away by the flavors of every dish and drink we ordered starting with the complimentary chips and salsa. The waitress was nice and the manager came out to check on us as well. I was craving cocktail de Cameron and they had the best I have ever had. We also got empanadas and the burrito don bigote. For drinks we had Mexican candy which was to die for and the el jefe which was a on point marg. Looking forward to making this our new spot for when we are craving Mexican.“
“I'm from Mexico and I think this is one of the best Mexican stores/restaurants in the area! They have pan dulce, chiles, herbs, hot sauces, etc. All the essentials. We were in a rush but managed to get an esquite and a torta al pastor and they were so good. We'll definitely be back!“
“Hands down the best Mexican I've found in CT. It was super busy so we waited at the bar. Even though the bar was stacked deep with people the bartender was super fast and attentive. Great service. Got seated in the timeframe they had estimated. We all had a variety of dishes and drinks and everything was fantastic. The chorizo nachos were outrageously good. I'll definitely be back, a lot.“
“Each time we’ve ordered from this little gem we’ve been so satisfied with the great food and really quick service! I wish this amazing taqueria was right next door though! My husband is headed over right now for a large order so we can enjoy the leftovers!“
“The experience at 1001 was incredible, we were there to celebrate my sister's birthday with about 10 people, each of us ordered different typical Mexican dishes, quesadillas, tacos, burritos, soda, water that comes with the house, it is a charming presentation. The prices are very affordable, most are under 20 dollars.The place is well located, it has free parking, a green area where you can eat outside with a view of the main avenue.The attention to service was most attentive.Parking: No warm or any inconvenience when parking. It has parking in the front area for two hours.Kid-friendliness: Children are allowed. It has all the accommodations for children/high chair.“
“On a scale of 1-10, this food truck is an 11. We visited on a weekend they were serving at a brewery and I am so impressed! The servers were so friendly! And the food was outstanding.We tried the birria tacos, shrimp quesadilla, carne asada tacos, and the churros. Everything was so amazing. The sides and sauces were so fresh. I would literally seek out where this truck is just for the food. Highly recommend!“
“The food was hands down amazing. Wasn't too busy when we but the waitress can be hard to find at times. I do plan to return many more times.Vegetarian options: As a vegetarian I had now problem finding something to eatParking: Restaurant is located in a small plaza plenty of parking.“
“It was a good time with my wife for Valentine's Day. They accommodated us last minute with a very busy night and we had a table in the back. I understand that it was Vday so I will give the service some grace, it was very busy in there, wait was a little long for food, but the overall experience was GREAT. Food is delicious, come with an appetite, and be ready to take food home. The waitress was checking in a lot but she was only stalling because the night was busy and she knew the food was taking long. She still asked what we needed and was very supportive throughout the process. I would definitely go back. Popular restaurant in a popular area, so I would still recommend making reservations before dining. Won't be my last time returning... The person next to us had the short ribs, when it came out I told my wife I will order that next time lol. El Santo is a beautiful place.“
“Nice place! Very authentic Mexican both in ambiance and the food. We had chicken quesadillas and carne asada tacos - they were perfect. Great taste, hot and plentiful. The server was very friendly and attentive to us the whole time. We were traveling through and found them on Yelp. Excellent choice!“
“I had the shredded beef burrito with refined beans, red rice and it was very good it reminded me of the real Mexican food back in Los Angeles where we are from. Very good will definitely come back again.Vegetarian options: There is vegetarian option“
“Each time we’ve ordered from this little gem we’ve been so satisfied with the great food and really quick service! I wish this amazing taqueria was right next door though! My husband is headed over right now for a large order so we can enjoy the leftovers!“
“Great local restaurant. Outstanding food, wonderful service, fair prices and an excellent Margarita! We've been on several occasions and will continue to enjoy their fare. When I call to make a reservation and let them know that there will be a wheelchair involved this restaurant could not be more accommodating. They help with the door and have a very accessible table well prepared. This is absolutely one of our favorite places to enjoy a meal if not our favorite. To the good people of Monterey I can only say, "Gracias"!Wheelchair accessibility: It's very accessible and if you forewarn them that a wheelchair will be in use they go out of their way to accommodate you.“
“My current top hidden gem for amazing and authentic Mexican food. Hidden in La plaza del Mercado, this spot has the most amazing tripe soup, where the tripe was properly cleaned, no funky taste/smell, cooked perfectly tender. Great caldo de res as well, the meat was tender and had a strong beef flavor, soup was light and refreshing and the veggies provided a nice natural sweetness and the squash was incredible inside. Their tacos are great as well and their pricing is a bargain and their portions are quite good.“
“Hands down the best Mexican food I have had in CT. My husband and I ordered the elote( off the Cobb) and the steak burrito. Everything was was seasoned to perfection and tasted made to order. Bonus: the customer service was superb. Can’t wait to visit again!“
“Haven't been back in 2 yrs. No worries it was excellent then and with updated menu, excellent today. We ordered quesadilla appetizers. First order of quesadilla was burned on top and was delivered by whom I think was the boss. As she delivered it she said it was not cooked as it should and asked if she could make another. Absolutely, never in my 70 + yrs has someone been gracious as a host to know what to do. We had the Huasteca sampler. To us when not sure, go for the sampler you won't be disappointed. Wait and service staff very attentive. Beers, cold.We will be back.“
“We love Toro! Casual eatery, with tons of options, including for kids and vegetarians, and the whole place is gluten free.The burrito has some kind of cooked cheese on the outside and is to die for. They also make a mean mezcal margarita, would recommend.Dietary restrictions: Gluten free“
“This restaurant is in a plaza, but it's really good authentic Mexican food. The salsa is so fresh, the jalapeno cheese dip was one of the best Ive had, the chicken soup was great very fresh, everything was great, and the Margaritas were very good as well. I will definitely be back to try more items off the “
“The tacos are fire!!! Everything is fresh and flavorful. 100000% enjoyed the quality of the food and pleasant service. The people running this truck KNOW what they are doing. However, my only reason for not giving 5 stars is that I find them to be pricey. There are other options in the city that are just as great at a more reasonable price. I still highly recommend them for the quality food but the cost adds up super quick. Last time we had a craving and stopped here, they wanted to charge $35 for 10 tacos. Another taco spot I love charges $25 for the same 10 tacos. For the prices, I'd only go here if I'm buying for just me or in a pinch for something fresh and healthy.“
“just an hug selection of food, nice people, and good vibes!!!the food was sooooo good and they cater at all sorts of diets you pick what you want all fresh veggies, fruits, newly made meats and rice sooooo many things great placebig shame to miss out on it!!“
“We were in Hartford for the weekend, and were hungry for lunch as we were heading out of town. We looked for something interesting on yelp, and found the Mercado. We went in, and went to the last counter down the line, as they had these amazing Columbian Tamales. I had never seen such big and round tamales. They are to die for. Perfectly cooked, well spiced, and just simply delicious. Went very well with the fried plantains. Very much enjoyed.“
“From out of town and we were very glad we stopped here. I had the quesadilla with el pastor. My wife had a mole enchilada and we both loved our meals. The service was friendly and got our orders right. Really great service. And the ambiance was store front simplicity but decorated with deliberate care. Not pretentious but fun and festive!“
“The food was absolutely amazing. I am originally from the West Coast and have been missing authentic tacos. We drove 40 min for these tacos and it was completely worth it. The service was absolutely amazing and the dining area was decorated nicely. 100% recommend“
“I just love Salsa Fresca. The West Hartford location is always clean, I've only had friendly and helpful service, the food is always fresh with plentiful protein options, toppings and sauces to choose from, and, every meal is ALWAYS delicious. I literally have not had a bad meal at Salsa Fresca. Everything truly is fresh, and you will taste the difference between their food and the competition. Each meal also comes with a small bag of chips and salsa. Make sure to sign up for their rewards program! You will be back again and again!“
“We went out for lunch on a rainy Saturday. The place wasn't too busy, maybe because of the rain. The restaurant was classy and clean; love the wall of candles. It really makes the place feel romantic. This was a pretty spacious restaurant too.They dropped off complimentary chips and salsa; the chips were super fresh and warm, the salsa was ok. We started off with the classic margaritas which were good. The waitress asked if we wanted large or small, we opted for large but didn't realize the price difference. A small was $11 and a large was $19; we probably should've looked at the price before purchasing it but it was a big margarita and it was good.I decided to get the super nachos as my meal because I love loaded nachos. This had fresh tortilla chips, ground beef, cheese, guacamole, and sour cream. I thought it was pretty big and I got full off of it; I actually took the rest home. I had a bite of my husband's burrito and that was really good. Next time, I want to try out their combination meal, you have a choice between one, two, or three. You can pick burrito, enchilada, tostada, etc. The service was quick and attentive. Overall, a good Mexican restaurant in the area and I look forward to going back.“