Date(s) visited: about 1 time. Food/Drink: 5/5 Service: 5/5 Atmosphere: 5/5 Price: 5/5 Parking: 5/5 "MY NEW FAVORITE MEXICAN RESTAURANT IN DENVER!" Food/Drink: I ordered the Calhoun plate which was a Chili Relleno, one Chicken Enchilada, and Spanish Rice and was just FLOORED with the quality and the taste! The chili in the relleno tasted very fresh and still had somewhat of a nice "crisp" to even after being cooked (not soggy in other words) and also the tortilla was fried perfectly and packed with cheese all the way to the end! In the Spanish rice all you could taste was FRESH tomato as though it came straight from the garden and the chicken enchiladas were packed with a juicy meat and smothered with Green Chili (ABSOLUTELY DELISH!!!) My other half had a Chicken Chimichanga which came out as a humongous portion which was nicely decorated and smothered with red sauce. Inside of the chimichanga it was stuffed to the brim with a LOT of chicken. Also, their Salsa and Chips was "off the chain"! It was just the right spice and also the chips are fried fresh every day. EVERY SINGLE BIT WAS SCRUMPTIOUS (oh Lord...Whew!) Service: Upon walking in, we saw they only took cash so my other half and I were going to leave to avoid the fees charged. The manager offered to take whatever "fees" were accrued from using their ATM off the plate so we could stay. After that, we received nothing but GREAT service from our waitress who continued to check on us (regardless of how busy the place started to become). We had generous refills of salsa and also great descriptions from our waitress about everything from the food to the history of the restaurant. For a $23 plate, I just had to give her a $5 tip for providing EXCELLENT service and food. Atmosphere: From the outside of the place, you would notice it is in the downtown area close to Champa (kind of a "not so shnazzy" area). Yet upon walking in, you would see that the place is quite spacious with lots of open seating (there is also seating located on the outside of the restaurant). I also like the fact that there is even a bar and a stage area right in the middle of the restaurant (where they at times also do benefit concerts). There are lots of things to look at including masks on the wall of indigenous Mexican art and even a beautiful picture of a Hispanic woman on their menu. The place has a very cozy and authentic Mexican feel to it which one can appreciate (especially myself since I LOVE ethnic food). The waiters and waitresses are all very friendly and the place gets VERY busy during lunch (and I definitely can see why!) Price: For what you pay for it is SO worth it! My other half bought a HUGE chimichanga for around $9 and still had a lot to take home! They even have daily specials throughout the week and a kids menu. From what I was told also, they have Happy Hour specials between 3-7 pm for Margaritas where if you buy one for $5, you get the other one for free! :) Parking: Lots of parking in front of the restaurant and also on the street. MY THOUGHTS? After having a bad couple of weeks of eating at restaurants that had bad customer service or even bad food, I stumble across this place as my other half and I were looking for lunch in the area. After giving this place a chance all I can say is AH-MAY-ZING!!!! I had a great foodie experience here after going to several places that made me wonder, "Do people even care about providing quality food or customer service anymore? Are there any real "hole in the walls" that can make a person appreciate they are unique and off the beaten path?" My anticipation about excitedly eating out in different restaurants started slowly going "downhill" and I have even started to cook at home more (which is actually a good thing). Yet, this place made my day and I am now a happy camper again.... "Thank you La Fiesta!!!" MUCHO GRACIAS! RECOMMENDATIONS: Their Chili Rellenos are quite popular from what I know (and SO damn good...)
(5)
Stephanie M.
The worst place I have ever been....well maybe not the worst but it runs on par with Casa Bonita and Taco Bell. Awful Bloody Mary, Velveeta cheese, grease, and canned beans as far as food goes.... who charges for chips and salsa anyway? Especially when they automatically put it on your table? The meats (chicken or beef) taste like dog food.... I do not know who the Westword is trusting or asking when they say it is a top food joint... AWFUL! Nothing authentic.
(1)
Meagan R.
3 stars is just about right for this place. My fiance's family is OBSESSED with La Fiesta, and they would all rate it as 5 stars for sure, but I personally don't get the appeal. The salsa and green chile are good but there's not much beyond that. I don't care much for the fake cheese. Just to clarify, I like La Fiesta. It's cheap and tastes good. But if I'm going to be consuming mega amounts of calories they need to be REALLY good tasting calories.
(3)
Sherri K.
The green chile!! Hot and good. I love how the menu let's you order as much or as little as you choose. There are traditional Mexican dishes as well and American fare (burgers, steaks, etc). I was disappointed that the chips were not authentic (they looked as if they had been poured from a bag) but the salsa was perfect. I love chile relleno's - it is basically the only thing I order at Mexican restaurants. I love them, and I would eat them every day if my mom was Mexican and cooked them for me. Every day I tell you. These were no exception. Love, I tell you. You can order them with red or green chile, and the green chile is famous. It is almost too hot (if that is possible), But oh! so delicious. Oh! and 2 for 1 margarita's at Happy Hour! Bonus! Possibly the best margarita I have ever had. I am not generally a margarita gal! I think sweet and sour, or whatever that yellow juice is that is used to mix perfectly good tequila is simply gross. These margaritas were mixed perfectly - not too sweet and not gross at all. I could easily find myself a marg-girl after tonight. The service was good. Pleasant and good. Our server seemed super busy and perhaps a bit overwhelmed with the dinner rush that was beginning, but was so sweet. Overall, splendid, and considering it's in my back yard, I should have been a regular a long time ago. Note: Cash only and lunch only except for Fridays when they are open til 9p.
(4)
Vin F.
Better call first. My first trip there ended up being a bust, they were closed that night, I believe it was a Wednesday. Do yourself a favor and skip this place; unless you like old worn out restaurants which serve marginal food. If that is the case it is perfect for you! The only redeeming item might be their green chile, and to a lesser extend their chile rellano. Not bad at all. The cheese in the enchilatas tasted like liquid processed cheese, think Chese Whiz out of a can.
(2)
KDenver S.
Best green chili and Mexican good in Denver. Period. (Don't forget cash, it's cash only but they have an ATM).
(5)
Chris B.
Really delicious. The green chili, as others have stated is amazing. Super rich full taste and perfect heat. The chili rellenos, my personal favorite, are also to die for. It's hard to find a truly great chili relleno, but La Fiesta hits the mark for me. The atmosphere is truly something else to behold, very non-chic, very, hmm, interesting. Adds to the overall experience. Service was on-par and attentive. The only minor hassle is they are cash only, so make sure to think ahead before visiting.
(4)
Margaret B.
The house salsa is VERY spicy... I like a little kick to my salsa, but that was a bit much. The server was very pleasant and our orders were taken quickly and the food arrived quickly. So I can appreciate that aspect of La Fiesta. I got a combo platter and it was smothered in a weird nacho cheese sauce and red chili sauce that was just 'off' somehow. There was lumps of food on my plate that were kind of a mystery to me. It is a large restaurant and they do have a parking lot, so I guess it'd be good for a group outing. Service is good, I just really really didn't care for the food, but had to eat it because I was on lunch break from work with co-workers. The food was such a bore that I will most certainly not be going back. ***Finally, CASH ONLY!***
(2)
Garth E.
Eh. As far as cheap and authentic Mexican restaurants go, Denver has a lot of options and unfortunately this place just doesn't live up to the high standard that has been set by other similar restaurants in the area. The chips tasted like they came out of a bag and were kind of stale but the salsa was good and it definitely had a kick to it. Spice is nice. I ordered a large combination, not because I'm a fatty but because I wanted to get a sampling of many different menu items (and it was only $1 more than the small combination). Our very inattentive waitress brought me a SMALL combination and when I hesitated she snapped "NO. That's what you ordered." Well okay then. To be honest, I didn't think the food had that much taste at all. The green chile sauce was good enough and the cheese filling to the enchilada and chile relleno was oddly appealing even though I'm pretty sure it was some kind of cheez whiz... At the end of the day, my biggest problem with La Fiesta is that I've had much better Mexican food at lunchtime in the city so it will be hard to justify going back. But it's worth a try if you, like me, are on a quest to experience all of Denver's Mexican food offerings.
(2)
A B.
Great food. Great Place. Denver natives understand why La Fiesta is the way it is - hours, cash only - because we know the history of the city and its neighborhoods. Lunch at La Fiesta is what I look forward to in Denver. Some of the best Colorado green chili around. I buy it, freeze it, take it back to the state I am living in and only share it with people I really love. True, if you are a hipster, suburbanite, and/or transplant - this is probably not the place for you but it is certainly not "faux-mexican food for old white people in a terrifying neighborhood." La Fiesta is fantastic Colorado Mexican with old Denver (down to earth) atmosphere. If you are here - learn to appreciate Colorado Mexican food - if you can't - stop complaining and move back where you think the Mexican food is the best.
(5)
Brock S.
Meh, this is faux-mexican for old white people. No corn adobada street tacos here. Nice venue, meh food.
(3)
Jessica M.
I really liked this place! Yes, the hours are weird. Yes, it's in a dumpy part of town. Yes, the Mexican food is good. To be honest, I hadn't explored much in the way of Mexican food since moving to Denver, but this really hit the spot. Definitely more Tex-Mex style than what I'd consider authentic Mexican, but it hit the spot all the same. It should be noted that when they say, "with green or red sauce," they mean SMOTHERED. And it's more cheesy than saucy, but it's still pretty good, just not my personal preference. If you like your food swimming on your plate, go for it, but be forewarned that they don't skimp here.
(4)
Steve S.
I'm always questing for great Mexican food, and I'm no stranger to Denver's (and the surrounding areas) offerings, so on a whim a buddy and I decided to check this place out. The place is HUGE (looks much larger on the inside than on the outside) and during primetime lunch hour we saw but maybe 2 other small groups in the place, not a good sign, but we decided to venture forth anyhow. I live by the mantra 'you can always judge a Mexican restaurant by its chips and salsa' and again that proved to be true. First, they charge for it (a sign that the place is going to be overpriced), and second it's just not that good. We were presented with a bouquet of shattered chips (and hopes) which were bordering on stale. The salsa does have a nice zing to it heat-wise, but that merely covers up the bland flavor. No fresh veggies in this salsa, this stuff just tastes like spicy tomato sauce with too much salt. At this point I knew this place was probably going to suck, these places always seem to suck when they can't even get the chips and salsa right, but we pressed on. I wanted to go with something simple, so I got a smothered chicken burrito with rice on the side. My tortilla had a hard spot, the chicken wasn't shredded right and it had an off-flavor, the lettuce was browning, the tomatoes were mush, the rice had about as much flavor as a rice cake and the green chili tasted like that canned 505 green chili you get at the grocery store. The water was good though. I couldn't believe that everything was so bad, there's no redemption here, it all stinks. Why are there so many reviewers who say the green chili here is great? It sucks! Either I have bad taste, or many of the reviewers here do, and I know it ain't me! My buddy got a chile relleno plate, and he was not impressed. The cheese they use for the rellenos is like that fake nacho cheese, who does that? These guys, that's who. Service wasn't terrible, but it wasn't great. It took a little time to get the check and we were disappointed that they only accept cash. If you want excellent Mexican food in the downtown Denver area then check out D'Corazon just south of 16th and Blake. If you want terrible Mexican food then come here.
(1)
Edie S.
Their green chili WAS great but their version of a chili rellano was not so great. It was like cheese whiz inside of some unknown substance. I myself use egg roll wrappers for the chili rellano and have no problem with using a cover for the chili pepper, but I could not quite identify what they had used. I was also disappointed that they did not serve any Mexican Seafood there. Because I truly love Mexican Seafood I had hoped for a nice fish taco or a Seafood Vallarta. The Margarita was fine, the service was very good. The place was comfortable and clean.
(3)
Jason M.
I've been a regular here since the mid 90s. The staff are all great, especially the manager Robert. The food is nowhere near authentic Mexican but it's absolutely unique and delicious. The green chili really is super spicy and excellent in flavor. The chili rellenos are outstanding, as is the stuffed and smothered sopapilla. I've never had a bad meal here. The atmosphere is divey and quirky. My only complaint is they are only open M-F for lunch (Though I think they are doing Friday night dinners too) Oh and the no credit card thing. Come on guys, it's 2014. Get a credit card machine already.
(5)
Lily S.
Better than last time, the DUGAN COMBINATION has everything I want, well, except the egg, which I remember was so good from last time, I requested a sunny side up on top of my chicken enchilada, it got placed on the crispy chile relleno instead, oh well. Asked for refried beans instead of rice, it was OK, I just gotta remember La Fiesta doesn't have the best refried beans, they're not bad, just not the greatest. The Xango fried cheesecake is more the reason to come back, read my last review for details.
(4)
N C.
5 STAR! ALL THE WAY! First, the only reason this place has a few negative reviews is because they USED to only accept cash. Not anymore, so go ahead and ignore all of those 1 star reviews. :) I wish we could eat here every Friday night! Anyhow, great SALSA & GREEN CHILI! I LOVE the salsa (I don't eat green chili) but my husband is in love with it, along with everyone else, according to the other reviews here. :) As for the salsa, I don't love "chunky" salsa or super runny salsa. That's why this is perfect! It's truly my all time favorite! Packed with a kick & tons of flavor! Great staff who's owned the place forever! Great service from every waiter we've ever had, and of course, great food!! One more thing... I read a few reviews about the cheese being velveta or cheese whiz?! Seriously people! This cheese is shredded and an amazing blend. I drive there from Parker to buy a bag of cheese to go, and a quart of salsa if I plan to make mexican food at home. That's how GOOD the cheese is! I don't know what these people are thinking. Maybe because it's melted on your food? Weirdo's! Anyhow, you won't regret this place! Enjoy! You're welcome! :)
(5)
Stephanie H.
The 2 for $5 margarita special lured us in. We soon regretted that choice. The chips and guac were good but over priced. When we asked the waiter what he would recommend he told us he doesn't usually eat here. Every thing we ordered was substandard. The green chilli was so hot it was inedible. And the rest seemed to just be grease and velveeta. Gross.
(1)
Mo C.
Stick to the Chile Rellenos & Green Chile and you'll be fine. This place has incredibly weird hours. No dinner hours Monday thru Thursday, then they're closed on Saturday & Sunday. WTF? It made it really, really difficult to find a time to get downtown to use my Groupon type thing. They do have their own parking lot, which would be helpful if they were ever open at a convenient time. I ordered the Beef Fajitas. Don't do that. They are not good. I'm not sure what grade of beef it is or if it is even beef. Just, take a pass. But, because it was obvious it was my first time there, they hooked me up with a Chile Relleno sample with Green Chile and that was pretty fantastic. Their chips and salsa are quite good as well. Stick to the Chile Rellenos and you'll be fine.
(3)
Sean C.
Place appears to have been closed for some time. No furniture on patio - no lights in the sign - no cars in the lot. Place locked up tight. And this was on Cinco De Mayo. Love walking around Five Points looking lost!
(1)
Jennifer E.
My food was so disgusting I couldn't even eat it. Other reviewers mention the annoyance of having to use their ATM: an ATM would be an improvement. They actually have a credit card machine with a sign that says "ATM", then they used an old 10 key to calculate the tax on my order (chicken enchiladas), but it wasn't working so my server left to go do math somewhere else, came back and gave me my total, then I handed her my credit card slip and she gave me my change from their antique cash register. Super bizarre. All the other customers appeared to be old white people. Despite being literally across the street from my apartment, I will never go back, not even for tequila.
(1)
Cliff T.
I almost wanted to give this place 5 stars but then I read some of the other reviews and was reminded that the whole ATM thing, while humorous in a way, is just a pain-in-the-ass. However, whoever says this place has no charm is blind. I think the fact that it is so obviously an old dancehall of the American Legion variety is awesome. Parts of the wall are carpeted(!!!) and the orange booths are straight dope. I love this place and am so happy I finally made it for Friday happy-hour. 2-for-1 Margs are great. Sure, the hours are crazy but it's worth it. I recommend the cheese burger smothered in green chile. Doesn't get any better than that!
(4)
Sage H.
There is something utterly endearing about La Fiesta. It feels like it's seen better days, and the food, while tasty in the way certain gloppy Mexican food can be tasty, is not really up to snuff. But. I love the warmth of the staff, the enormous parking lot, the location, and the questionable decorative elements. I've never regretted stopping in for a bite.
(3)
joseph g.
Get anything, as long as it's smothered in green chili.
(5)
Tiffany N.
The server and I started off on the wrong foot when I ordered a margarita and he told me it was 2 for 1 because of happy hour and then looked at his watch and said actually I had just missed happy hour. Why did he want to toy with my emotions like that? It was just cruel. But, after that hiccup, we got along just fine. I am a person that likes to eat little bites of everything so I can try it all. La Fiesta helps me out by offering pretty much everything a la carte. So I was able to try a taco, a tostada and an enchilada, all with different stuff inside and even both the red and green chile. Holy fire in my mouth! That green chile is spicy. The salsa is spicy. I had to order some guacamole to tone it down. When our server took our order he said, "I'll be right back." And he actually came right back with our food. It took approximately 5 minutes. Amazing. It was good, but still not up to my favorite place - Los Carboncitos - good. Important things to know is that they are open until 9 pm (at least on the weekends) and it's cash only friends.
(3)
Jason C.
Wow you know what I love Mexican food. I even love the sort of Tex Mex cheese coated sort. But for the love of all that's good it has to have actual cheese in the thing jesus christ almighty. A couple of friends of mine swear by the place, and their chile rellenos. I am quite serious about chile rellenos: I grow my own chiles, smoke my own cheese and make them myself. My standards are high but you know what? Most of the time I enjoy chile rellenos anywhere. They're basically unfuckwitable. Not at La Fiesta though. When my girlfriend and I walked into La Fiesta I muttered that this was my new neighborhood Mexican joint. The decor was just so... I don't know... anachronistic? It was totally rad. Also the staff was immediately super friendly and borderline awesome. Then, the food came. What the fuck are you people putting in these chile rellenos? This isn't cheese, its some sort of futuristic equivalent. It doesn't go with the decor, La Fiesta. Cheese is made from milk not vegetable oil. This american cheese Kraft singles bullshit is getting in the way of my enjoyment of the fruity, spicy chile aspects that good chile rellenos should exemplify. My dog won't even eat this cheese anymore (please see earlier review on dog food). In Summary: Cheese is a sacred sacred thing. It should be met with a serious mind and all the due respect it deserves.
(2)
Bobby T.
Everytime I have had food from La Fiesta, it has just been A-OK. I always feel like the portions are really not that great for the $$. However, the food is good to great. I started out getting the chimichanga, expecting a gut bomb of deep fried Mexican goodness. Sadly, it was small and hardly sated me. The green chile (get it on the side if you are doing a carryout order) is delicious, though. I drank the leftover green chile I had straight from the side cup. Recently, my co-worker coerced me to try the rellenos. I succumbed, ordering a combo that had a relleno in it. Boy was that tasty! I was never a fan of Chile Relleno before, but I am now. La Fiesta's is the high water mark for me. To sum up: La Fiesta has very tasty food, but portion sizes lack, especially for the price. Get a relleno or 2. Definitely get 2. Drink the green chile.
(3)
J S.
Denver has some fair Mexican food, but I am afraid that this place isn't it. It isn't "Casa Bonita" bad, but there is much better around town. This is our second visit. I was disappointed the first time too, but gave them the benefit of doubt.. Also, while not accepting credit cards could be a concern to some people, it doesn't usually bother me that much. It is usually a sign that they are either financially unstable, or they are playing games with their taxes. It doesn't affect the food, not directly anyway. What DOES bother me is the "ATM" that they have inside on the bar. It isn't really a ATM, it is a credit card system. this should be a concern for everyone.
(2)
Melissa J.
This place can get away with only being open M-F for lunch, being cash only, and being horrendously decorated because its La Freakin' Fiesta. Haters gonna hate but IMO its the best dive Mexican in Denver. The green chili is amazing, the crispy rellenos are near perfect, and it's cheap to boot! I also admittedly have a soft spot for their processed cheese. I think the people giving it one or two stars expected more than it is. It's been exactly the same for thirty years and it's always packed with locals.
(5)
Matt B.
Not authentic by any means. My combo platter was dowsed in the cheese sauce you find at the nacho machine at the movies. Not very enjoyable even though I was looking forward to greasy Mexican. Their saving grace was their salsa which was pretty hot and tastey. If you want authentic go to federal, if you want greasy go to Emilio's
(2)
Suzi S.
I am also a bit perplexed by the bad reviews. The service was good, and while it was certainly different than other good mexican food (I think its like trying to pick a favorite kid), I thought it was great. That said, i do love the Velveeta-like cheese that filled the relleno and enchilada. The green chile was different than other places, but tasted great. The ground beef in my daughter's taco was delicious. I ADORE mexican food and can appreciate different types and styles. I thought this was a tasty change from the usual places. Also, the interior is kind of old and rundown, but I thought it just added to the experience. I would recommend it to friends and family without reservation. The only thing that I found really strange is their open hours - lunch only M-TH and lunch and dinner on Friday. No weekends?
(4)
Nixie G.
This place is ok. Nothing spectacular but its fast. Cash only, which is inconvenient. Its also close to the office, so it makes for a nice break mid-day.
(3)
Heidi S.
I have been a regular since 1983. Authentic - not so much. Satisfying - very much. I crave the green chili, it is thick and dotted with cubed pork. I can't live without the chips and salsa - chips are medium thick and the salsa is loadddeeeddd with garlic and you will have to go into hiding if everyone you work with didn't have any. The cheese is yellow and gooey and melted on everything - that is not a bad thing in this case. When I die I want heaven to to have a La Fiesta, or even if I end up in Hell - everything has proper heat. Happiness. Sit in Rose's section on the far wall across from the main entrance. No better service in Denver. They are only open for lunch during the week but stay open for dinner on Fridays.
(4)
Jay B.
Since this old school restaurant is literally 15 steps from my house, I should have been here more often. I can't answer why I haven't. That being said, I am pissed I have been missing out on some of the best green chili this side of New Mexico. Jay likes it spicy!!! Wooooooohoooooo that is spicy! And GOOOOOOOOD. The problem is I have a difficult time deciding what to get because I want to get something other than the usual enchiladas. By the way, I got enchiladas. My gf hates it because she wants to eat! How about bringing some of those 2 for 1 happy hour delicious Margs? Not too sweet and how bout that......I can taste the tequila. I usually fill up on chips and salsa before the main arrives but I don't think that will happen here. Although the salsa is spicy goodness, the chips were awful. Not even decent yellow corn chips. Round and from a bag for sure. No taste. I was expecting a little better since this place has certainly been around since the 60's. Sipping on the margarita's I daydreamed about what this place would've been like 20 years ago. There's still a stage set up (sort of), disco ball and lights for the stage. I bet there have been some pretty awesome parties here. But those days are long gone. Oh....the enchiladas were ok. I'm sure I'll be back to choose from a very large menu but I'll probably just get the green chili again. But I will still look at the menu for 10 minutes.
(4)
Aileen D.
I am not a connoisseur of Mexican food but La Fiesta makes me happy. I am a wimp when it comes to green chile and they laugh when I ask for my plates to be "Christmas" or to leave the water/iced tea pitcher ont he table. For that alone I am a fan. Their guac is fresh and yummy. The burritos are stuffed to the gills. The service is most often quick yet friendly. The decor is very 70s but I don't think people really care.
(4)
Graham W.
Ehhhh-Yuck! Worst Mexican food in Denver hands down. I would have been happier at Taco Bell or Casa Bonita. The lady got the super burrito which was anything but super. I ordered steak fajita which was the special for the night and the meat was just awful quality. Server was nice and efficient and the salsa was okay those are the only two good things i have to say about this place. Needless to say i wont ever be visiting La Fiesta again.
(1)
Lindsey M.
This place is one of my favorite restaurants in all of Denver. I have been there for lunch on my birthday every year since I remember and maybe it is nostalgia, but the green chili just burns so good. I assume they make it at the beginning of the week because by Friday, it is just shy of too hot, but it is delish! Tears of joy, my friend, tears of joy. I agree. This is not authentic by any means, but the welfare cheese, the creamiest beans I have ever had, the chile rellenos, the smothered soft tacos... It's the stuff my inner (and outer) fat girl dreams are made of. The only problem is that the craving has too much time to build because they are only open for lunch during the week (well, and dinner on Friday) so when I do get the opportunity, I usually eat too much. This is a Denver institution and anyone that says otherwise, is not from here. A new favorite is the Murray Combination (named after a friend of the family and a faithful patron). Chile relleno, soft chicken taco, rice beans and tortillas. Or the classic Fiesta Combination (add cheese on the burrito). I want it all right now.
(5)
Nick S.
Alright... Let me preface this review with I used to actually think La Fiesta was one of the only good, authentic, Mexican restaurants in Denver. NOT ANYMORE. After going there for years, knowing the waiter's on a first name basis, and putting up with less than favorable decor/atmosphere/neighborhood my run with La Fiesta is over. A group of five of us went in there for a great meal and will never come back. The reason: HUGE. BLACK. FLY. That's right! A huge black fly was in my girlfriend's margarita and after sending it back we received no apology and were charged for the replacement upon getting handed the check. It wasn't until after we had all finished our meal and we had to ASK for the replacement was it rendered and then charged for it. We promptly spoke with a manager who rectified the situation, but damage done. Our waiter, who used to be an acquaintance, clearly tried to stiff us with the extra margarita after everyone working that night saw the drink returned with the pest floating on top. Needless to say... we will not be back.
(1)
i n.
Love this place. Everyone that writes AUTHENTIC MEXICAN FOOD on this review should be shot. It is very American Mexican! They use a (sort of) Velveeta like cheese in the enchiladas and relinos that is awesome with the green chiles. This does make the food very heavy and your stomach might not like it the best but it's great going down. If you have a huge appetite try the Large Combination; 1 enchilada, 1 chile relino, 1 burrito, 1 taco & 1 Tostata!!! The service here is excellent. We used to sit in Rose's section for 10 years but since she has retired we have tried other sections and all of the wait staff is amaizing. The resaurant itself is not pretty inside since it looks like they haven't changed anything so don't take a date here for lunch. Also IT IS ONLY OPEN FOR LUNCH.
(5)
Lel S.
The green chili looks like snot and all the cheese they used in the 5 different things my table ordered was velveeta! We were given chips and salsa and were never told they were not free and at the end of the meal we were charged for them even though we didnt order them! I will never go back and I recommend you never go!
(1)
David T.
I don't suppose you have to be Bronco fan to enjoy this place. But it might help. The light is orange, the booths are orange and the food is orange. Cheese, sauce, meat, chips--it all looked kind of orange. The room is huge and kind of empty, what looks like a stage is piled high with old furniture, the kitchen looks filthy, the decorations rely heavily on the free crap that beer companies give away and they don't take credit cards. So what's the attraction? Let's face it, some days you just want to soak in the voluptuous love of orange Mexican food, the kind of stuff smothered in fatty flavors and the perfect dinner before a night of drinking or immediately after. This place is homey, old school and hip because of everything that's wrong with it. In a world of prefabricated style and fashion in eateries, La Fiesta may not be high end, but it is what is without any pretense. Go with a bunch of friends. Drink a bunch of beer. You'll have fun. If you like orange.
(2)
Jon K.
Very busy place. My food was great as usual. Service was awesome even with how busy it was. I'm not a big fan of liquid salsa. I usually like tomato and onion chunks in it but it wasn't bad. Chip were a bit salty but o well. I usually end up salting my chips everywhere else. Check it out if you have a chance. Great Food
(3)
Baxter L.
Processed cheese on everything. Makes it all taste like plastic. Bad chips, weak margs and really pricey. Salsa was good and service was friendly. Would NOT recommend going here.
(2)
David L.
If you like cheez whiz then you'll love La Fiesta! For some reason La Fiesta has become the embodiment of Mexican food in Denver, with it emblematic smothered plates of cheese and green salsa and a decor that hasn't changed in 30 years. The service is fast and attentive, lots of free chips, good salsa and great prices....so whats the problem??? My issues come when you hybrid what would be decent mexican food, with american fast food. Take a perfectly good chile rellenos with mexican cheese, beautiful! Now fill the same thing with an american cheese, especially one with the taste of cheese whiz, and you've just ruined the dish. Mexican food can be excellent, with its simple ingredients and distinct flavors, but mix that with the highly processed orange cheese and someone is bound to get hurt.
(2)
Doug Y.
This is old school Denver chicano style mexican food at it's greasy best. Too much cheese, and everything including the soft tacos are smothered in green chile. It's not a meaty green but it does have good flavor. I suppose we were shown extra attention since the owner is a long time client of my cuz's Harley shop but I think everyone in the joint was smiling and smacking down the chips and salsa or their over abundant plates full of smothered something or other while drinking margarita's or cervezas. This is not a joint for everyone but if you're a native Denverite and your collar is probably colored blue, this joint is right up your alley (or if your a YUP with a penchant for good cheap plentiful food with decent heat involved in the chile dept. this place will work alright for you too.). Try the rellenos or the soft tacos and if you like more heat ask for some roasted jalapenos. Cheesy, gloppy, heart stopping goodness. For dessert try the zango. It's a fried cheesecake with a flaky crust and caramel drizzle. I'm so damn full right now I can hardly write. Sorry... No, I guess I'm not actually : )
(4)
Kay M.
This place is great! We go on Friday nights for Happy Hour 2-for-1 margaritas. The food is good, not the best I've ever had but we love this spot!
(4)
Ali P.
Two words: Government Cheese
(1)
Aaron W.
This place is only open for lunch, but luckily an old friend worked right near here and discovered this true gem in the city. Voted best Chile Rellenos in recent years, pretty much all the food at this joint is tasty. The salsa and chips are great and the green chile is good on everything. If you have the free time at lunch and like mexican food, don't miss this great spot just outside of downtown.
(5)
Marcee t.
Not sure why there's so many low reviews. I thought the food and service were great. I loved it and so did my hubby.
(4)
Sara G.
La Fiesta serves old-school, greasy, cheesy, gooey Mexican food. They have a killer salsa, firey green chili (it seems true that everything is smothered), yummy "crispy" chile rellenos and a warm, friendly atmosphere. I think their beans and rice are only okay, but I still love the place overall. Yes, it's true: they are only open for lunch during the week, and they take cash only.
(4)
David H.
Hey, this is what's so great about Yelp. You read about a 3 1/2 star restaurant, that you have loved for years, and you wonder why it only gets 3 1/2 stars. A fly in the margarita (happens everywhere), velveeta in the rellenos (I doubt it), and the kitchen is filthy (even though there is no real access to the kitchen, and I've been in 5-star restaurants kitchens that have all sorts of debris on the floors). Hey, that's just the way a restaurant works. But, read the comments about the food. That's where you learn. And hay, we are never on top of our game everyday or 100% of the time. But look at the overall attitude about the food. That's what Yelp gives us. And that's why I love Yelp, and La Fiesta.
(4)
Jeff Y.
The best mexican i've had in denver, and now it's open an extra 1/2 hour, til 2:30. Get the calhoun plate - 1 chile relleno and 1 chicken enchilada, with or without meat in the enchilada - I prefer without, smothered in the the almost turkey gravy-esque green sauce. You will lick the plate clean. Great chips and salsa, and i love how they give you your own pitcher of water, crucial when it's slammed - which it always is. They only take cash, but they have an atm at the bar. Expect some mild to serious -itis afterwards (a general feeling of malaise and immobility).
(5)
Walter S.
La Fiesta is only open for lunch and dinner on Fridays. The dated interior includes carpeted walls, posters from the 80s. The green chili is amazing. They don't take credit cards.
(3)
Linda L.
My husband and I went to La Fiesta early on a Friday afternoon to try their Happy Hour and food. We were greeted and sat at a booth. The waitress came by, dropped off chips and salsa, and asked us what we wanted to drink. I asked "How much are the Happy Hour margaritas?" to which she replied "Two for one". We ordered two margaritas, and each had one chicharrone and bean burrito, smothered with lettuce and tomatoes. The margaritas were very small and weak, arriving in a small wine glass. The food came quickly and was good. There was only a small amount of lettuce and tomatoes on the burrito even though the extra charge for this was $1.99 each. When the bill came, we noticed that we had been charged $2.99 for chips and salsa. When we asked our waiter, he said "We charge for our chips". We were then told that no credit cards were accepted, only cash. We also noticed that we had been overcharged $1.00 for each burrito. When we told the cashier she said "We appreciate our customers who have the strength of character to bring mistakes to our attention" and took off the $2 overcharge. So what happens to the customers who do not scrutinize their bill or do not have the strength of character to ask for it to be corrected? Do they just get ripped off? How unfortunate. We will not return
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Accepts Bitcoin : No Good For : Lunch Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Divey Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Dogs Allowed : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.
Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.
Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.
Catherine D.
Date(s) visited: about 1 time. Food/Drink: 5/5 Service: 5/5 Atmosphere: 5/5 Price: 5/5 Parking: 5/5 "MY NEW FAVORITE MEXICAN RESTAURANT IN DENVER!" Food/Drink: I ordered the Calhoun plate which was a Chili Relleno, one Chicken Enchilada, and Spanish Rice and was just FLOORED with the quality and the taste! The chili in the relleno tasted very fresh and still had somewhat of a nice "crisp" to even after being cooked (not soggy in other words) and also the tortilla was fried perfectly and packed with cheese all the way to the end! In the Spanish rice all you could taste was FRESH tomato as though it came straight from the garden and the chicken enchiladas were packed with a juicy meat and smothered with Green Chili (ABSOLUTELY DELISH!!!) My other half had a Chicken Chimichanga which came out as a humongous portion which was nicely decorated and smothered with red sauce. Inside of the chimichanga it was stuffed to the brim with a LOT of chicken. Also, their Salsa and Chips was "off the chain"! It was just the right spice and also the chips are fried fresh every day. EVERY SINGLE BIT WAS SCRUMPTIOUS (oh Lord...Whew!) Service: Upon walking in, we saw they only took cash so my other half and I were going to leave to avoid the fees charged. The manager offered to take whatever "fees" were accrued from using their ATM off the plate so we could stay. After that, we received nothing but GREAT service from our waitress who continued to check on us (regardless of how busy the place started to become). We had generous refills of salsa and also great descriptions from our waitress about everything from the food to the history of the restaurant. For a $23 plate, I just had to give her a $5 tip for providing EXCELLENT service and food. Atmosphere: From the outside of the place, you would notice it is in the downtown area close to Champa (kind of a "not so shnazzy" area). Yet upon walking in, you would see that the place is quite spacious with lots of open seating (there is also seating located on the outside of the restaurant). I also like the fact that there is even a bar and a stage area right in the middle of the restaurant (where they at times also do benefit concerts). There are lots of things to look at including masks on the wall of indigenous Mexican art and even a beautiful picture of a Hispanic woman on their menu. The place has a very cozy and authentic Mexican feel to it which one can appreciate (especially myself since I LOVE ethnic food). The waiters and waitresses are all very friendly and the place gets VERY busy during lunch (and I definitely can see why!) Price: For what you pay for it is SO worth it! My other half bought a HUGE chimichanga for around $9 and still had a lot to take home! They even have daily specials throughout the week and a kids menu. From what I was told also, they have Happy Hour specials between 3-7 pm for Margaritas where if you buy one for $5, you get the other one for free! :) Parking: Lots of parking in front of the restaurant and also on the street. MY THOUGHTS? After having a bad couple of weeks of eating at restaurants that had bad customer service or even bad food, I stumble across this place as my other half and I were looking for lunch in the area. After giving this place a chance all I can say is AH-MAY-ZING!!!! I had a great foodie experience here after going to several places that made me wonder, "Do people even care about providing quality food or customer service anymore? Are there any real "hole in the walls" that can make a person appreciate they are unique and off the beaten path?" My anticipation about excitedly eating out in different restaurants started slowly going "downhill" and I have even started to cook at home more (which is actually a good thing). Yet, this place made my day and I am now a happy camper again.... "Thank you La Fiesta!!!" MUCHO GRACIAS! RECOMMENDATIONS: Their Chili Rellenos are quite popular from what I know (and SO damn good...)
(5)Stephanie M.
The worst place I have ever been....well maybe not the worst but it runs on par with Casa Bonita and Taco Bell. Awful Bloody Mary, Velveeta cheese, grease, and canned beans as far as food goes.... who charges for chips and salsa anyway? Especially when they automatically put it on your table? The meats (chicken or beef) taste like dog food.... I do not know who the Westword is trusting or asking when they say it is a top food joint... AWFUL! Nothing authentic.
(1)Meagan R.
3 stars is just about right for this place. My fiance's family is OBSESSED with La Fiesta, and they would all rate it as 5 stars for sure, but I personally don't get the appeal. The salsa and green chile are good but there's not much beyond that. I don't care much for the fake cheese. Just to clarify, I like La Fiesta. It's cheap and tastes good. But if I'm going to be consuming mega amounts of calories they need to be REALLY good tasting calories.
(3)Sherri K.
The green chile!! Hot and good. I love how the menu let's you order as much or as little as you choose. There are traditional Mexican dishes as well and American fare (burgers, steaks, etc). I was disappointed that the chips were not authentic (they looked as if they had been poured from a bag) but the salsa was perfect. I love chile relleno's - it is basically the only thing I order at Mexican restaurants. I love them, and I would eat them every day if my mom was Mexican and cooked them for me. Every day I tell you. These were no exception. Love, I tell you. You can order them with red or green chile, and the green chile is famous. It is almost too hot (if that is possible), But oh! so delicious. Oh! and 2 for 1 margarita's at Happy Hour! Bonus! Possibly the best margarita I have ever had. I am not generally a margarita gal! I think sweet and sour, or whatever that yellow juice is that is used to mix perfectly good tequila is simply gross. These margaritas were mixed perfectly - not too sweet and not gross at all. I could easily find myself a marg-girl after tonight. The service was good. Pleasant and good. Our server seemed super busy and perhaps a bit overwhelmed with the dinner rush that was beginning, but was so sweet. Overall, splendid, and considering it's in my back yard, I should have been a regular a long time ago. Note: Cash only and lunch only except for Fridays when they are open til 9p.
(4)Vin F.
Better call first. My first trip there ended up being a bust, they were closed that night, I believe it was a Wednesday. Do yourself a favor and skip this place; unless you like old worn out restaurants which serve marginal food. If that is the case it is perfect for you! The only redeeming item might be their green chile, and to a lesser extend their chile rellano. Not bad at all. The cheese in the enchilatas tasted like liquid processed cheese, think Chese Whiz out of a can.
(2)KDenver S.
Best green chili and Mexican good in Denver. Period. (Don't forget cash, it's cash only but they have an ATM).
(5)Chris B.
Really delicious. The green chili, as others have stated is amazing. Super rich full taste and perfect heat. The chili rellenos, my personal favorite, are also to die for. It's hard to find a truly great chili relleno, but La Fiesta hits the mark for me. The atmosphere is truly something else to behold, very non-chic, very, hmm, interesting. Adds to the overall experience. Service was on-par and attentive. The only minor hassle is they are cash only, so make sure to think ahead before visiting.
(4)Margaret B.
The house salsa is VERY spicy... I like a little kick to my salsa, but that was a bit much. The server was very pleasant and our orders were taken quickly and the food arrived quickly. So I can appreciate that aspect of La Fiesta. I got a combo platter and it was smothered in a weird nacho cheese sauce and red chili sauce that was just 'off' somehow. There was lumps of food on my plate that were kind of a mystery to me. It is a large restaurant and they do have a parking lot, so I guess it'd be good for a group outing. Service is good, I just really really didn't care for the food, but had to eat it because I was on lunch break from work with co-workers. The food was such a bore that I will most certainly not be going back. ***Finally, CASH ONLY!***
(2)Garth E.
Eh. As far as cheap and authentic Mexican restaurants go, Denver has a lot of options and unfortunately this place just doesn't live up to the high standard that has been set by other similar restaurants in the area. The chips tasted like they came out of a bag and were kind of stale but the salsa was good and it definitely had a kick to it. Spice is nice. I ordered a large combination, not because I'm a fatty but because I wanted to get a sampling of many different menu items (and it was only $1 more than the small combination). Our very inattentive waitress brought me a SMALL combination and when I hesitated she snapped "NO. That's what you ordered." Well okay then. To be honest, I didn't think the food had that much taste at all. The green chile sauce was good enough and the cheese filling to the enchilada and chile relleno was oddly appealing even though I'm pretty sure it was some kind of cheez whiz... At the end of the day, my biggest problem with La Fiesta is that I've had much better Mexican food at lunchtime in the city so it will be hard to justify going back. But it's worth a try if you, like me, are on a quest to experience all of Denver's Mexican food offerings.
(2)A B.
Great food. Great Place. Denver natives understand why La Fiesta is the way it is - hours, cash only - because we know the history of the city and its neighborhoods. Lunch at La Fiesta is what I look forward to in Denver. Some of the best Colorado green chili around. I buy it, freeze it, take it back to the state I am living in and only share it with people I really love. True, if you are a hipster, suburbanite, and/or transplant - this is probably not the place for you but it is certainly not "faux-mexican food for old white people in a terrifying neighborhood." La Fiesta is fantastic Colorado Mexican with old Denver (down to earth) atmosphere. If you are here - learn to appreciate Colorado Mexican food - if you can't - stop complaining and move back where you think the Mexican food is the best.
(5)Brock S.
Meh, this is faux-mexican for old white people. No corn adobada street tacos here. Nice venue, meh food.
(3)Jessica M.
I really liked this place! Yes, the hours are weird. Yes, it's in a dumpy part of town. Yes, the Mexican food is good. To be honest, I hadn't explored much in the way of Mexican food since moving to Denver, but this really hit the spot. Definitely more Tex-Mex style than what I'd consider authentic Mexican, but it hit the spot all the same. It should be noted that when they say, "with green or red sauce," they mean SMOTHERED. And it's more cheesy than saucy, but it's still pretty good, just not my personal preference. If you like your food swimming on your plate, go for it, but be forewarned that they don't skimp here.
(4)Steve S.
I'm always questing for great Mexican food, and I'm no stranger to Denver's (and the surrounding areas) offerings, so on a whim a buddy and I decided to check this place out. The place is HUGE (looks much larger on the inside than on the outside) and during primetime lunch hour we saw but maybe 2 other small groups in the place, not a good sign, but we decided to venture forth anyhow. I live by the mantra 'you can always judge a Mexican restaurant by its chips and salsa' and again that proved to be true. First, they charge for it (a sign that the place is going to be overpriced), and second it's just not that good. We were presented with a bouquet of shattered chips (and hopes) which were bordering on stale. The salsa does have a nice zing to it heat-wise, but that merely covers up the bland flavor. No fresh veggies in this salsa, this stuff just tastes like spicy tomato sauce with too much salt. At this point I knew this place was probably going to suck, these places always seem to suck when they can't even get the chips and salsa right, but we pressed on. I wanted to go with something simple, so I got a smothered chicken burrito with rice on the side. My tortilla had a hard spot, the chicken wasn't shredded right and it had an off-flavor, the lettuce was browning, the tomatoes were mush, the rice had about as much flavor as a rice cake and the green chili tasted like that canned 505 green chili you get at the grocery store. The water was good though. I couldn't believe that everything was so bad, there's no redemption here, it all stinks. Why are there so many reviewers who say the green chili here is great? It sucks! Either I have bad taste, or many of the reviewers here do, and I know it ain't me! My buddy got a chile relleno plate, and he was not impressed. The cheese they use for the rellenos is like that fake nacho cheese, who does that? These guys, that's who. Service wasn't terrible, but it wasn't great. It took a little time to get the check and we were disappointed that they only accept cash. If you want excellent Mexican food in the downtown Denver area then check out D'Corazon just south of 16th and Blake. If you want terrible Mexican food then come here.
(1)Edie S.
Their green chili WAS great but their version of a chili rellano was not so great. It was like cheese whiz inside of some unknown substance. I myself use egg roll wrappers for the chili rellano and have no problem with using a cover for the chili pepper, but I could not quite identify what they had used. I was also disappointed that they did not serve any Mexican Seafood there. Because I truly love Mexican Seafood I had hoped for a nice fish taco or a Seafood Vallarta. The Margarita was fine, the service was very good. The place was comfortable and clean.
(3)Jason M.
I've been a regular here since the mid 90s. The staff are all great, especially the manager Robert. The food is nowhere near authentic Mexican but it's absolutely unique and delicious. The green chili really is super spicy and excellent in flavor. The chili rellenos are outstanding, as is the stuffed and smothered sopapilla. I've never had a bad meal here. The atmosphere is divey and quirky. My only complaint is they are only open M-F for lunch (Though I think they are doing Friday night dinners too) Oh and the no credit card thing. Come on guys, it's 2014. Get a credit card machine already.
(5)Lily S.
Better than last time, the DUGAN COMBINATION has everything I want, well, except the egg, which I remember was so good from last time, I requested a sunny side up on top of my chicken enchilada, it got placed on the crispy chile relleno instead, oh well. Asked for refried beans instead of rice, it was OK, I just gotta remember La Fiesta doesn't have the best refried beans, they're not bad, just not the greatest. The Xango fried cheesecake is more the reason to come back, read my last review for details.
(4)N C.
5 STAR! ALL THE WAY! First, the only reason this place has a few negative reviews is because they USED to only accept cash. Not anymore, so go ahead and ignore all of those 1 star reviews. :) I wish we could eat here every Friday night! Anyhow, great SALSA & GREEN CHILI! I LOVE the salsa (I don't eat green chili) but my husband is in love with it, along with everyone else, according to the other reviews here. :) As for the salsa, I don't love "chunky" salsa or super runny salsa. That's why this is perfect! It's truly my all time favorite! Packed with a kick & tons of flavor! Great staff who's owned the place forever! Great service from every waiter we've ever had, and of course, great food!! One more thing... I read a few reviews about the cheese being velveta or cheese whiz?! Seriously people! This cheese is shredded and an amazing blend. I drive there from Parker to buy a bag of cheese to go, and a quart of salsa if I plan to make mexican food at home. That's how GOOD the cheese is! I don't know what these people are thinking. Maybe because it's melted on your food? Weirdo's! Anyhow, you won't regret this place! Enjoy! You're welcome! :)
(5)Stephanie H.
The 2 for $5 margarita special lured us in. We soon regretted that choice. The chips and guac were good but over priced. When we asked the waiter what he would recommend he told us he doesn't usually eat here. Every thing we ordered was substandard. The green chilli was so hot it was inedible. And the rest seemed to just be grease and velveeta. Gross.
(1)Mo C.
Stick to the Chile Rellenos & Green Chile and you'll be fine. This place has incredibly weird hours. No dinner hours Monday thru Thursday, then they're closed on Saturday & Sunday. WTF? It made it really, really difficult to find a time to get downtown to use my Groupon type thing. They do have their own parking lot, which would be helpful if they were ever open at a convenient time. I ordered the Beef Fajitas. Don't do that. They are not good. I'm not sure what grade of beef it is or if it is even beef. Just, take a pass. But, because it was obvious it was my first time there, they hooked me up with a Chile Relleno sample with Green Chile and that was pretty fantastic. Their chips and salsa are quite good as well. Stick to the Chile Rellenos and you'll be fine.
(3)Sean C.
Place appears to have been closed for some time. No furniture on patio - no lights in the sign - no cars in the lot. Place locked up tight. And this was on Cinco De Mayo. Love walking around Five Points looking lost!
(1)Jennifer E.
My food was so disgusting I couldn't even eat it. Other reviewers mention the annoyance of having to use their ATM: an ATM would be an improvement. They actually have a credit card machine with a sign that says "ATM", then they used an old 10 key to calculate the tax on my order (chicken enchiladas), but it wasn't working so my server left to go do math somewhere else, came back and gave me my total, then I handed her my credit card slip and she gave me my change from their antique cash register. Super bizarre. All the other customers appeared to be old white people. Despite being literally across the street from my apartment, I will never go back, not even for tequila.
(1)Cliff T.
I almost wanted to give this place 5 stars but then I read some of the other reviews and was reminded that the whole ATM thing, while humorous in a way, is just a pain-in-the-ass. However, whoever says this place has no charm is blind. I think the fact that it is so obviously an old dancehall of the American Legion variety is awesome. Parts of the wall are carpeted(!!!) and the orange booths are straight dope. I love this place and am so happy I finally made it for Friday happy-hour. 2-for-1 Margs are great. Sure, the hours are crazy but it's worth it. I recommend the cheese burger smothered in green chile. Doesn't get any better than that!
(4)Sage H.
There is something utterly endearing about La Fiesta. It feels like it's seen better days, and the food, while tasty in the way certain gloppy Mexican food can be tasty, is not really up to snuff. But. I love the warmth of the staff, the enormous parking lot, the location, and the questionable decorative elements. I've never regretted stopping in for a bite.
(3)joseph g.
Get anything, as long as it's smothered in green chili.
(5)Tiffany N.
The server and I started off on the wrong foot when I ordered a margarita and he told me it was 2 for 1 because of happy hour and then looked at his watch and said actually I had just missed happy hour. Why did he want to toy with my emotions like that? It was just cruel. But, after that hiccup, we got along just fine. I am a person that likes to eat little bites of everything so I can try it all. La Fiesta helps me out by offering pretty much everything a la carte. So I was able to try a taco, a tostada and an enchilada, all with different stuff inside and even both the red and green chile. Holy fire in my mouth! That green chile is spicy. The salsa is spicy. I had to order some guacamole to tone it down. When our server took our order he said, "I'll be right back." And he actually came right back with our food. It took approximately 5 minutes. Amazing. It was good, but still not up to my favorite place - Los Carboncitos - good. Important things to know is that they are open until 9 pm (at least on the weekends) and it's cash only friends.
(3)Jason C.
Wow you know what I love Mexican food. I even love the sort of Tex Mex cheese coated sort. But for the love of all that's good it has to have actual cheese in the thing jesus christ almighty. A couple of friends of mine swear by the place, and their chile rellenos. I am quite serious about chile rellenos: I grow my own chiles, smoke my own cheese and make them myself. My standards are high but you know what? Most of the time I enjoy chile rellenos anywhere. They're basically unfuckwitable. Not at La Fiesta though. When my girlfriend and I walked into La Fiesta I muttered that this was my new neighborhood Mexican joint. The decor was just so... I don't know... anachronistic? It was totally rad. Also the staff was immediately super friendly and borderline awesome. Then, the food came. What the fuck are you people putting in these chile rellenos? This isn't cheese, its some sort of futuristic equivalent. It doesn't go with the decor, La Fiesta. Cheese is made from milk not vegetable oil. This american cheese Kraft singles bullshit is getting in the way of my enjoyment of the fruity, spicy chile aspects that good chile rellenos should exemplify. My dog won't even eat this cheese anymore (please see earlier review on dog food). In Summary: Cheese is a sacred sacred thing. It should be met with a serious mind and all the due respect it deserves.
(2)Bobby T.
Everytime I have had food from La Fiesta, it has just been A-OK. I always feel like the portions are really not that great for the $$. However, the food is good to great. I started out getting the chimichanga, expecting a gut bomb of deep fried Mexican goodness. Sadly, it was small and hardly sated me. The green chile (get it on the side if you are doing a carryout order) is delicious, though. I drank the leftover green chile I had straight from the side cup. Recently, my co-worker coerced me to try the rellenos. I succumbed, ordering a combo that had a relleno in it. Boy was that tasty! I was never a fan of Chile Relleno before, but I am now. La Fiesta's is the high water mark for me. To sum up: La Fiesta has very tasty food, but portion sizes lack, especially for the price. Get a relleno or 2. Definitely get 2. Drink the green chile.
(3)J S.
Denver has some fair Mexican food, but I am afraid that this place isn't it. It isn't "Casa Bonita" bad, but there is much better around town. This is our second visit. I was disappointed the first time too, but gave them the benefit of doubt.. Also, while not accepting credit cards could be a concern to some people, it doesn't usually bother me that much. It is usually a sign that they are either financially unstable, or they are playing games with their taxes. It doesn't affect the food, not directly anyway. What DOES bother me is the "ATM" that they have inside on the bar. It isn't really a ATM, it is a credit card system. this should be a concern for everyone.
(2)Melissa J.
This place can get away with only being open M-F for lunch, being cash only, and being horrendously decorated because its La Freakin' Fiesta. Haters gonna hate but IMO its the best dive Mexican in Denver. The green chili is amazing, the crispy rellenos are near perfect, and it's cheap to boot! I also admittedly have a soft spot for their processed cheese. I think the people giving it one or two stars expected more than it is. It's been exactly the same for thirty years and it's always packed with locals.
(5)Matt B.
Not authentic by any means. My combo platter was dowsed in the cheese sauce you find at the nacho machine at the movies. Not very enjoyable even though I was looking forward to greasy Mexican. Their saving grace was their salsa which was pretty hot and tastey. If you want authentic go to federal, if you want greasy go to Emilio's
(2)Suzi S.
I am also a bit perplexed by the bad reviews. The service was good, and while it was certainly different than other good mexican food (I think its like trying to pick a favorite kid), I thought it was great. That said, i do love the Velveeta-like cheese that filled the relleno and enchilada. The green chile was different than other places, but tasted great. The ground beef in my daughter's taco was delicious. I ADORE mexican food and can appreciate different types and styles. I thought this was a tasty change from the usual places. Also, the interior is kind of old and rundown, but I thought it just added to the experience. I would recommend it to friends and family without reservation. The only thing that I found really strange is their open hours - lunch only M-TH and lunch and dinner on Friday. No weekends?
(4)Nixie G.
This place is ok. Nothing spectacular but its fast. Cash only, which is inconvenient. Its also close to the office, so it makes for a nice break mid-day.
(3)Heidi S.
I have been a regular since 1983. Authentic - not so much. Satisfying - very much. I crave the green chili, it is thick and dotted with cubed pork. I can't live without the chips and salsa - chips are medium thick and the salsa is loadddeeeddd with garlic and you will have to go into hiding if everyone you work with didn't have any. The cheese is yellow and gooey and melted on everything - that is not a bad thing in this case. When I die I want heaven to to have a La Fiesta, or even if I end up in Hell - everything has proper heat. Happiness. Sit in Rose's section on the far wall across from the main entrance. No better service in Denver. They are only open for lunch during the week but stay open for dinner on Fridays.
(4)Jay B.
Since this old school restaurant is literally 15 steps from my house, I should have been here more often. I can't answer why I haven't. That being said, I am pissed I have been missing out on some of the best green chili this side of New Mexico. Jay likes it spicy!!! Wooooooohoooooo that is spicy! And GOOOOOOOOD. The problem is I have a difficult time deciding what to get because I want to get something other than the usual enchiladas. By the way, I got enchiladas. My gf hates it because she wants to eat! How about bringing some of those 2 for 1 happy hour delicious Margs? Not too sweet and how bout that......I can taste the tequila. I usually fill up on chips and salsa before the main arrives but I don't think that will happen here. Although the salsa is spicy goodness, the chips were awful. Not even decent yellow corn chips. Round and from a bag for sure. No taste. I was expecting a little better since this place has certainly been around since the 60's. Sipping on the margarita's I daydreamed about what this place would've been like 20 years ago. There's still a stage set up (sort of), disco ball and lights for the stage. I bet there have been some pretty awesome parties here. But those days are long gone. Oh....the enchiladas were ok. I'm sure I'll be back to choose from a very large menu but I'll probably just get the green chili again. But I will still look at the menu for 10 minutes.
(4)Aileen D.
I am not a connoisseur of Mexican food but La Fiesta makes me happy. I am a wimp when it comes to green chile and they laugh when I ask for my plates to be "Christmas" or to leave the water/iced tea pitcher ont he table. For that alone I am a fan. Their guac is fresh and yummy. The burritos are stuffed to the gills. The service is most often quick yet friendly. The decor is very 70s but I don't think people really care.
(4)Graham W.
Ehhhh-Yuck! Worst Mexican food in Denver hands down. I would have been happier at Taco Bell or Casa Bonita. The lady got the super burrito which was anything but super. I ordered steak fajita which was the special for the night and the meat was just awful quality. Server was nice and efficient and the salsa was okay those are the only two good things i have to say about this place. Needless to say i wont ever be visiting La Fiesta again.
(1)Lindsey M.
This place is one of my favorite restaurants in all of Denver. I have been there for lunch on my birthday every year since I remember and maybe it is nostalgia, but the green chili just burns so good. I assume they make it at the beginning of the week because by Friday, it is just shy of too hot, but it is delish! Tears of joy, my friend, tears of joy. I agree. This is not authentic by any means, but the welfare cheese, the creamiest beans I have ever had, the chile rellenos, the smothered soft tacos... It's the stuff my inner (and outer) fat girl dreams are made of. The only problem is that the craving has too much time to build because they are only open for lunch during the week (well, and dinner on Friday) so when I do get the opportunity, I usually eat too much. This is a Denver institution and anyone that says otherwise, is not from here. A new favorite is the Murray Combination (named after a friend of the family and a faithful patron). Chile relleno, soft chicken taco, rice beans and tortillas. Or the classic Fiesta Combination (add cheese on the burrito). I want it all right now.
(5)Nick S.
Alright... Let me preface this review with I used to actually think La Fiesta was one of the only good, authentic, Mexican restaurants in Denver. NOT ANYMORE. After going there for years, knowing the waiter's on a first name basis, and putting up with less than favorable decor/atmosphere/neighborhood my run with La Fiesta is over. A group of five of us went in there for a great meal and will never come back. The reason: HUGE. BLACK. FLY. That's right! A huge black fly was in my girlfriend's margarita and after sending it back we received no apology and were charged for the replacement upon getting handed the check. It wasn't until after we had all finished our meal and we had to ASK for the replacement was it rendered and then charged for it. We promptly spoke with a manager who rectified the situation, but damage done. Our waiter, who used to be an acquaintance, clearly tried to stiff us with the extra margarita after everyone working that night saw the drink returned with the pest floating on top. Needless to say... we will not be back.
(1)i n.
Love this place. Everyone that writes AUTHENTIC MEXICAN FOOD on this review should be shot. It is very American Mexican! They use a (sort of) Velveeta like cheese in the enchiladas and relinos that is awesome with the green chiles. This does make the food very heavy and your stomach might not like it the best but it's great going down. If you have a huge appetite try the Large Combination; 1 enchilada, 1 chile relino, 1 burrito, 1 taco & 1 Tostata!!! The service here is excellent. We used to sit in Rose's section for 10 years but since she has retired we have tried other sections and all of the wait staff is amaizing. The resaurant itself is not pretty inside since it looks like they haven't changed anything so don't take a date here for lunch. Also IT IS ONLY OPEN FOR LUNCH.
(5)Lel S.
The green chili looks like snot and all the cheese they used in the 5 different things my table ordered was velveeta! We were given chips and salsa and were never told they were not free and at the end of the meal we were charged for them even though we didnt order them! I will never go back and I recommend you never go!
(1)David T.
I don't suppose you have to be Bronco fan to enjoy this place. But it might help. The light is orange, the booths are orange and the food is orange. Cheese, sauce, meat, chips--it all looked kind of orange. The room is huge and kind of empty, what looks like a stage is piled high with old furniture, the kitchen looks filthy, the decorations rely heavily on the free crap that beer companies give away and they don't take credit cards. So what's the attraction? Let's face it, some days you just want to soak in the voluptuous love of orange Mexican food, the kind of stuff smothered in fatty flavors and the perfect dinner before a night of drinking or immediately after. This place is homey, old school and hip because of everything that's wrong with it. In a world of prefabricated style and fashion in eateries, La Fiesta may not be high end, but it is what is without any pretense. Go with a bunch of friends. Drink a bunch of beer. You'll have fun. If you like orange.
(2)Jon K.
Very busy place. My food was great as usual. Service was awesome even with how busy it was. I'm not a big fan of liquid salsa. I usually like tomato and onion chunks in it but it wasn't bad. Chip were a bit salty but o well. I usually end up salting my chips everywhere else. Check it out if you have a chance. Great Food
(3)Baxter L.
Processed cheese on everything. Makes it all taste like plastic. Bad chips, weak margs and really pricey. Salsa was good and service was friendly. Would NOT recommend going here.
(2)David L.
If you like cheez whiz then you'll love La Fiesta! For some reason La Fiesta has become the embodiment of Mexican food in Denver, with it emblematic smothered plates of cheese and green salsa and a decor that hasn't changed in 30 years. The service is fast and attentive, lots of free chips, good salsa and great prices....so whats the problem??? My issues come when you hybrid what would be decent mexican food, with american fast food. Take a perfectly good chile rellenos with mexican cheese, beautiful! Now fill the same thing with an american cheese, especially one with the taste of cheese whiz, and you've just ruined the dish. Mexican food can be excellent, with its simple ingredients and distinct flavors, but mix that with the highly processed orange cheese and someone is bound to get hurt.
(2)Doug Y.
This is old school Denver chicano style mexican food at it's greasy best. Too much cheese, and everything including the soft tacos are smothered in green chile. It's not a meaty green but it does have good flavor. I suppose we were shown extra attention since the owner is a long time client of my cuz's Harley shop but I think everyone in the joint was smiling and smacking down the chips and salsa or their over abundant plates full of smothered something or other while drinking margarita's or cervezas. This is not a joint for everyone but if you're a native Denverite and your collar is probably colored blue, this joint is right up your alley (or if your a YUP with a penchant for good cheap plentiful food with decent heat involved in the chile dept. this place will work alright for you too.). Try the rellenos or the soft tacos and if you like more heat ask for some roasted jalapenos. Cheesy, gloppy, heart stopping goodness. For dessert try the zango. It's a fried cheesecake with a flaky crust and caramel drizzle. I'm so damn full right now I can hardly write. Sorry... No, I guess I'm not actually : )
(4)Kay M.
This place is great! We go on Friday nights for Happy Hour 2-for-1 margaritas. The food is good, not the best I've ever had but we love this spot!
(4)Ali P.
Two words: Government Cheese
(1)Aaron W.
This place is only open for lunch, but luckily an old friend worked right near here and discovered this true gem in the city. Voted best Chile Rellenos in recent years, pretty much all the food at this joint is tasty. The salsa and chips are great and the green chile is good on everything. If you have the free time at lunch and like mexican food, don't miss this great spot just outside of downtown.
(5)Marcee t.
Not sure why there's so many low reviews. I thought the food and service were great. I loved it and so did my hubby.
(4)Sara G.
La Fiesta serves old-school, greasy, cheesy, gooey Mexican food. They have a killer salsa, firey green chili (it seems true that everything is smothered), yummy "crispy" chile rellenos and a warm, friendly atmosphere. I think their beans and rice are only okay, but I still love the place overall. Yes, it's true: they are only open for lunch during the week, and they take cash only.
(4)David H.
Hey, this is what's so great about Yelp. You read about a 3 1/2 star restaurant, that you have loved for years, and you wonder why it only gets 3 1/2 stars. A fly in the margarita (happens everywhere), velveeta in the rellenos (I doubt it), and the kitchen is filthy (even though there is no real access to the kitchen, and I've been in 5-star restaurants kitchens that have all sorts of debris on the floors). Hey, that's just the way a restaurant works. But, read the comments about the food. That's where you learn. And hay, we are never on top of our game everyday or 100% of the time. But look at the overall attitude about the food. That's what Yelp gives us. And that's why I love Yelp, and La Fiesta.
(4)Jeff Y.
The best mexican i've had in denver, and now it's open an extra 1/2 hour, til 2:30. Get the calhoun plate - 1 chile relleno and 1 chicken enchilada, with or without meat in the enchilada - I prefer without, smothered in the the almost turkey gravy-esque green sauce. You will lick the plate clean. Great chips and salsa, and i love how they give you your own pitcher of water, crucial when it's slammed - which it always is. They only take cash, but they have an atm at the bar. Expect some mild to serious -itis afterwards (a general feeling of malaise and immobility).
(5)Walter S.
La Fiesta is only open for lunch and dinner on Fridays. The dated interior includes carpeted walls, posters from the 80s. The green chili is amazing. They don't take credit cards.
(3)Linda L.
My husband and I went to La Fiesta early on a Friday afternoon to try their Happy Hour and food. We were greeted and sat at a booth. The waitress came by, dropped off chips and salsa, and asked us what we wanted to drink. I asked "How much are the Happy Hour margaritas?" to which she replied "Two for one". We ordered two margaritas, and each had one chicharrone and bean burrito, smothered with lettuce and tomatoes. The margaritas were very small and weak, arriving in a small wine glass. The food came quickly and was good. There was only a small amount of lettuce and tomatoes on the burrito even though the extra charge for this was $1.99 each. When the bill came, we noticed that we had been charged $2.99 for chips and salsa. When we asked our waiter, he said "We charge for our chips". We were then told that no credit cards were accepted, only cash. We also noticed that we had been overcharged $1.00 for each burrito. When we told the cashier she said "We appreciate our customers who have the strength of character to bring mistakes to our attention" and took off the $2 overcharge. So what happens to the customers who do not scrutinize their bill or do not have the strength of character to ask for it to be corrected? Do they just get ripped off? How unfortunate. We will not return
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