Consider this a review of both locations- I see the owners and staff in both restaurants, and my experience has been great at both this one and the Newberry Road location. I have always had complimentary warm, crisp chips and the salsa (especially the hot) is the best in town, but that's just my taste. They have a lot of great lunch specials, and I leave happy and full for less than $10. That's work lunch; dinner with the family is always enjoyable, as well. They bring out crayons and coloring books for the kids, and interact with them a little. They don't put hot plates or knives near the kids, which a scary large number of other places do. They have the obligatory XX on tap, and fried ice cream, flan, churros, for dessert. How does Dos Equis go so well with Mexican food, anyway? But, I digress. Birthday parties are exciting, they bring out a sombrero and sing, which some people enjoy, and embarasses others. While the service has always been good, I like the food, which is pretty authentic, plain, and delicious, with maybe a little TexMex in there, but I'm fine with that. For me, it's a familiar place with just good food. I should add that this location is larger and more spacious, not packed in like Newberry Road.
(5)
Roshni S.
I love La Fiesta. It's my favorite Mexican restaurant in all of Florida. The staff is very friendly and constantly checked up on me. The place is big so it can fit any party big or small. I haven't been to Gainesville in about 5 years. I was very disappointed when I went to the old location thinking that la fiesta and closed down completely. To my joy I realized the 39th st location was still open. I got the hot salsa which is made fresh. It's so flavorful. I also got the enchilada dinner with cheese and onion enchiladas. They were delicious. They don't put that fake Velvetta like cheese in there. in the past I've also had their guac tostada which is also tasty. It is definitely a treat to get to go to la fiesta! I wish they would open a location in Tampa!
(5)
Joseph H.
Very fast. Cheap, and good food. A decent bar. The atmosphere is loud and sports bar.
(4)
Colin C.
They have the most amazing Chile Relleno in the world. I have eaten all over California, all the popular places here in town, and nobody comes close to La Fiesta. The beans here are so good that I normally order a bucket sized bowl whenever I come in. I don't know how they cook them, but they have unique flavor. Not like the bland beans and rice most places serve. Plus the servers and staff are really polite and attentive. Wish they would open a downtown location for late night after bar grubbing.
(5)
Lea T.
This is the place to go for an quick lunch or awesome dinner of Mexican dining. Everyone is friendly and professional. Their Margaritas so delicious, you'll want another. The guacamole is homemade daily and amazing along with their queso dip and chips served with salsa hot or mild. Their are always specials so if your not sure what your in the mood for, the staff is helpful to recommend a dish. Make the drive to La Fiesta for your next lunch or dinner out, where you will feel as part of the family. We Love La Fiesta!
(5)
Ashley T.
we stopped here on our way back home from sarasota. i wanted mexican food and the next billboard we saw was for this place. it is located conveniently right off I-75. (although the parking lot is slightly confusing on the way out!) we were immediately seated and our server was very friendly. they offer you either mild, hot, or both salsas. we chose both and we preferred the hot salsa to the mild. we ordered a couple beers and our food. my husband chose the vegetarian chimichanga and i chose the grilled fish tacos. his was tasty but way cheesy. some may consider that a good thing but we both thought it was a little too cheesy. i really liked the fish tacos. they were simple and tasty. they came with an avocado sauce that was nice too. also their rice and beans were really great. the best of either i've had in a long time at a mexican restaurant. i wish this place was closer to home!
(4)
Andrew B.
¡AsÃ, asÃ, amigos! If one star is the baja flavored horse meat goodness of Taco Bell, and five stars is as if you were at casa de Juan Valdez, then this place is a solid three. El Average-o. Rolling up to La Fiesta, you think: welp, this probably isn't going to be earth shattering. And you know what? It isn't! But I can tell you that the food will be warmed and served to you alarmingly fast...as if they knew you were coming. If you're traveling and you have the incredible urge for the most amazing mediocre food, pack your sombrero for La Fiesta. For something actually good, you should probably go elsewhere.
(3)
Jamie H.
Let me preface this by saying I'm sort of a mexican food snob. I lived in California for 26 years. I had amazing, authentic, exciting mexican food at my disposal and sort of took it for granted. That is, until I moved to North Florida. What passess for mexican here would get laughed out of california faster than you can say "taco". So, when I give La Fiesta 3 stars, it means that they're probably the best of the blah. If you care about authentic flavors and having a meal that won't put you to sleep, go to La Tienda. If you can't make it to La Tienda, go to La Fiesta.
(2)
Gregg M.
My wife and I went to lunch there today. If this is a Mexican restaurant then I am very confused. My wife ordered the Steak Fajita lunch it was very bland, very little meat and greasy. I ordered the lunch special #3. It has a beef and bean burrito that had no taste and extremely bland also. The Burrito had no cheese, no sauce, no sour cream so in other words it was a flour tortilla, beans and beef. My taco was as bland as the rest of the meal. Beef, cheese and lettuce. Their was no hint of seasoning in either meal, no taste at all. Service was ok. When I was asked how my meal was by the cashier I said bland and he said would you like a copy of your receipt? He ignored everyrhing else I said. We spent $27.00 with tip and it definitely was not worth it!. This will be our last visit to LA Fiesta.
(1)
Michael P.
So first off the service is fast and friendly. Food came out fast which was good and bad. Mexican enchilada and burrito ranchero were warm not hot. On the other hand the refried beans were tremendous and so was the queso. Kids meal chicken fingers were the real deal. Overall really good as we did arrive half hour before closing.
(4)
John D.
Coty S. Nailed it. We stayed at a hotel down the street and were too tired to forage further than La Fiesta's for dinner. The food is harmless, if not bland. Margaritas taste more like paint thinner and flat Sprite than anything else. You could do worse, but I think any of the fast food places nearby would be just as good, if not safer.
(2)
Coty S.
This La Fiesta location appears to have everything going for it: -excellent location right off of I-75 -great service -festive and casual atmosphere that just puts you in a good mood as you as you enter -immaculately clean dining area -plenty of outdoor patio seating at the front and back of the establishment Unfortunately, I base my reviews on food served... Everything I have eaten here is totally bland, including the salsa. Yes, including the "spicy" salsa. How do you make salsa bland? The burrito was bland, the taco was bland, the enchilada was bland, the cheese dip was bland, the fried ice cream was bland. The only item I like here is the complimentary basket of chips because they were warm, crispy, and super thin. I ate here, I am over it, I can move on now. Never to return.
(2)
David D.
Lunch report: Crowd on a Friday picked up after 12pm so expect a bit of a rush. Service was quick (perhaps a bit too pushy). Chicken chimichanga lunch portion was a tad small and little cool on one side of the center which makes me wonder if a microwave was getting a workout in the kitchen. Salsa & chips were free and tasty. Price was reasonable. Not outstanding but not the worst either. 2.75 out of 5.
(3)
Gordon M.
Not very authentic. my enchiladas had this nasty, salty, cheese sauce poured over them, that solidified. I have to say I felt rather unwell, while eating it and had to stop. Keep it authentic people!! Americans will eat authentic mexican food!!
(1)
Bruce B.
My favorite Mexican food joint! The food and service(usually) are excellent! The owners are always on sight and do their absolute best to make sure the customer are being taken care of properly. They have an extensive selection of Tequila, with LOTS of high end top shelf stuff! The prices are very reasonable on the even the most exotic Tequilas! The other adult beverages are priced fairly and poured generously. Oh yeah the food! I've NEVER been disappointed with a meal there. That's a strong statement, but true. I made an error once and ordered Chile Rellenos and forgot to order them without meat-not at all my preference, but they were still tasty! My wife and I will sometimes split an order of the chicken nachos supreme and it's a meal in itself! The cheese dip is to die for. My wife has tried to duplicate it and the seasoning they use with the shredded chicken (without luck).
(5)
Keith S.
Best restaurant in town! The queso and taquitos are absolutely amazing! I highly recommended this to anyone who wants a great place to eat. Food is served quickly and the service is great.
(5)
Erin P.
I have passed by this many times, as I live off 39th and it's on my work route. Finally went in and we were not disappointed! My husband had the carnitas and I had the vegetarian chimichanga plate. Mine wasn't greasy, which surprised me- most are as they are fried. The rice was decent, but the refried beans were amazing. Usually it's a pasty, obviously- from- a- can slop with some cheese on it. These were smooth, and very tasty. The chips and salsa were good...I enjoy a really good, cilantro-y salsa and this was it. Didn't taste commercial at all. I wasn't able to finish, got through about 1/2 my entree before feeling full, but not uncomfortable like I have at other Mexican restaurants from all the grease. The service was really good too. The waitstaff really helped each other out, our drinks were refilled by someone passing by, plates were removed, etc. It was really refreshing. And the environment was awesome as well. The music was at the right level, and I saw large parties being seated with no issue. We will absolutely come back!
(5)
Charles L.
Best chicken steak fajita hot and sizzling always comes with great customer service and speedy refills on the sweet tea. My daughter loves the cheese dip and hot fresh chips nothing like a fried ice cream to finish off a great meal!
(5)
Dee C.
Phenomenal food, great service, and very clean! The shredded beef chimichangas are not to be missed. Their guacamole is also fantastic. Highly recommended!
(5)
Tessa M.
The only Mexican food place in town that's good, that we know of. Every time family is in town they want to come here. They are closed on Sundays. We call the one near the mall the old one- hard to find a parking space And the one on 39th the new one - it's a little nicer but the food seems to be a little different maybe a little bland.
(4)
Vicki M.
Really good food, fast service, friendly staff, excellent margaritas, no complains!
(5)
Tamika S.
Delicious, Authentic Mexican Food, Inexpensive, and Clean Atmosphere
(5)
Debra B.
Very tasty cheese & onion enchilda and very good beef taco. Yummie salsa (mild version for me) and crispy, warm chips. Friendly, prompt service. Rice was also very good. Lunch special was $5.50. Great price! I ate lunch but went and looked at patio which seemed nice and good place for margarita after work. The manager showed me out to patio which was after I told waitress I just wanted a quick look. Very nice&friendly place.
(5)
Kevin L.
Couldn't ask for better food and service. Great, reasonably priced lunch specials. So glad I found this place while I was in Gainesville.
(5)
Peeico P.
Reliable, decently priced. Wednesday is taco night. Got two chicken tacos, and my wife the beef on corn tortillas. Our 17 year old son got the enchiladas and couldn't finish, so that will be the midnight snack, I am sure.
(3)
Vicky Z.
Good taste, reasonable price, and awesome service. We tried Fajita, too big for one person, but taste awesome.
(4)
Wilhelmina R.
This place is super fast for lunch. You can definitely be in and out in 30 minutes. The food is accidentally an Italian Mexican fusion. Instead of salsa, they give you marinara sauce. Also, the refried beans have a lot of sugar to taste. Maybe like a baked bean style of flavoring, even though they look normal. Chile relleno is legit with a pablano pepper and not some fake bell pepper. Lunch is pretty cheap, and fast, so I go back.
(4)
Erin P.
I have passed by this many times, as I live off 39th and it's on my work route. Finally went in and we were not disappointed! My husband had the carnitas and I had the vegetarian chimichanga plate. Mine wasn't greasy, which surprised me- most are as they are fried. The rice was decent, but the refried beans were amazing. Usually it's a pasty, obviously- from- a- can slop with some cheese on it. These were smooth, and very tasty. The chips and salsa were good...I enjoy a really good, cilantro-y salsa and this was it. Didn't taste commercial at all. I wasn't able to finish, got through about 1/2 my entree before feeling full, but not uncomfortable like I have at other Mexican restaurants from all the grease. The service was really good too. The waitstaff really helped each other out, our drinks were refilled by someone passing by, plates were removed, etc. It was really refreshing. And the environment was awesome as well. The music was at the right level, and I saw large parties being seated with no issue. We will absolutely come back!
(5)
Charles L.
Best chicken steak fajita hot and sizzling always comes with great customer service and speedy refills on the sweet tea. My daughter loves the cheese dip and hot fresh chips nothing like a fried ice cream to finish off a great meal!
(5)
Dee C.
Phenomenal food, great service, and very clean! The shredded beef chimichangas are not to be missed. Their guacamole is also fantastic. Highly recommended!
(5)
Tessa M.
The only Mexican food place in town that's good, that we know of. Every time family is in town they want to come here. They are closed on Sundays. We call the one near the mall the old one- hard to find a parking space And the one on 39th the new one - it's a little nicer but the food seems to be a little different maybe a little bland.
(4)
Vicki M.
Really good food, fast service, friendly staff, excellent margaritas, no complains!
(5)
Gordon M.
Not very authentic. my enchiladas had this nasty, salty, cheese sauce poured over them, that solidified. I have to say I felt rather unwell, while eating it and had to stop. Keep it authentic people!! Americans will eat authentic mexican food!!
(1)
Tamika S.
Delicious, Authentic Mexican Food, Inexpensive, and Clean Atmosphere
(5)
Debra B.
Very tasty cheese & onion enchilda and very good beef taco. Yummie salsa (mild version for me) and crispy, warm chips. Friendly, prompt service. Rice was also very good. Lunch special was $5.50. Great price! I ate lunch but went and looked at patio which seemed nice and good place for margarita after work. The manager showed me out to patio which was after I told waitress I just wanted a quick look. Very nice&friendly place.
(5)
micah j.
Consider this a review of both locations- I see the owners and staff in both restaurants, and my experience has been great at both this one and the Newberry Road location. I have always had complimentary warm, crisp chips and the salsa (especially the hot) is the best in town, but that's just my taste. They have a lot of great lunch specials, and I leave happy and full for less than $10. That's work lunch; dinner with the family is always enjoyable, as well. They bring out crayons and coloring books for the kids, and interact with them a little. They don't put hot plates or knives near the kids, which a scary large number of other places do. They have the obligatory XX on tap, and fried ice cream, flan, churros, for dessert. How does Dos Equis go so well with Mexican food, anyway? But, I digress. Birthday parties are exciting, they bring out a sombrero and sing, which some people enjoy, and embarasses others. While the service has always been good, I like the food, which is pretty authentic, plain, and delicious, with maybe a little TexMex in there, but I'm fine with that. For me, it's a familiar place with just good food. I should add that this location is larger and more spacious, not packed in like Newberry Road.
(5)
Coty S.
This La Fiesta location appears to have everything going for it: -excellent location right off of I-75 -great service -festive and casual atmosphere that just puts you in a good mood as you as you enter -immaculately clean dining area -plenty of outdoor patio seating at the front and back of the establishment Unfortunately, I base my reviews on food served... Everything I have eaten here is totally bland, including the salsa. Yes, including the "spicy" salsa. How do you make salsa bland? The burrito was bland, the taco was bland, the enchilada was bland, the cheese dip was bland, the fried ice cream was bland. The only item I like here is the complimentary basket of chips because they were warm, crispy, and super thin. I ate here, I am over it, I can move on now. Never to return.
(2)
David D.
Lunch report: Crowd on a Friday picked up after 12pm so expect a bit of a rush. Service was quick (perhaps a bit too pushy). Chicken chimichanga lunch portion was a tad small and little cool on one side of the center which makes me wonder if a microwave was getting a workout in the kitchen. Salsa & chips were free and tasty. Price was reasonable. Not outstanding but not the worst either. 2.75 out of 5.
(3)
Bruce B.
My favorite Mexican food joint! The food and service(usually) are excellent! The owners are always on sight and do their absolute best to make sure the customer are being taken care of properly. They have an extensive selection of Tequila, with LOTS of high end top shelf stuff! The prices are very reasonable on the even the most exotic Tequilas! The other adult beverages are priced fairly and poured generously. Oh yeah the food! I've NEVER been disappointed with a meal there. That's a strong statement, but true. I made an error once and ordered Chile Rellenos and forgot to order them without meat-not at all my preference, but they were still tasty! My wife and I will sometimes split an order of the chicken nachos supreme and it's a meal in itself! The cheese dip is to die for. My wife has tried to duplicate it and the seasoning they use with the shredded chicken (without luck).
(5)
Keith S.
Best restaurant in town! The queso and taquitos are absolutely amazing! I highly recommended this to anyone who wants a great place to eat. Food is served quickly and the service is great.
(5)
Kevin L.
Couldn't ask for better food and service. Great, reasonably priced lunch specials. So glad I found this place while I was in Gainesville.
(5)
Roshni S.
I love La Fiesta. It's my favorite Mexican restaurant in all of Florida. The staff is very friendly and constantly checked up on me. The place is big so it can fit any party big or small. I haven't been to Gainesville in about 5 years. I was very disappointed when I went to the old location thinking that la fiesta and closed down completely. To my joy I realized the 39th st location was still open. I got the hot salsa which is made fresh. It's so flavorful. I also got the enchilada dinner with cheese and onion enchiladas. They were delicious. They don't put that fake Velvetta like cheese in there. in the past I've also had their guac tostada which is also tasty. It is definitely a treat to get to go to la fiesta! I wish they would open a location in Tampa!
(5)
Peeico P.
Reliable, decently priced. Wednesday is taco night. Got two chicken tacos, and my wife the beef on corn tortillas. Our 17 year old son got the enchiladas and couldn't finish, so that will be the midnight snack, I am sure.
(3)
Vicky Z.
Good taste, reasonable price, and awesome service. We tried Fajita, too big for one person, but taste awesome.
(4)
Wilhelmina R.
This place is super fast for lunch. You can definitely be in and out in 30 minutes. The food is accidentally an Italian Mexican fusion. Instead of salsa, they give you marinara sauce. Also, the refried beans have a lot of sugar to taste. Maybe like a baked bean style of flavoring, even though they look normal. Chile relleno is legit with a pablano pepper and not some fake bell pepper. Lunch is pretty cheap, and fast, so I go back.
(4)
Joseph H.
Very fast. Cheap, and good food. A decent bar. The atmosphere is loud and sports bar.
(4)
Colin C.
They have the most amazing Chile Relleno in the world. I have eaten all over California, all the popular places here in town, and nobody comes close to La Fiesta. The beans here are so good that I normally order a bucket sized bowl whenever I come in. I don't know how they cook them, but they have unique flavor. Not like the bland beans and rice most places serve. Plus the servers and staff are really polite and attentive. Wish they would open a downtown location for late night after bar grubbing.
(5)
Lea T.
This is the place to go for an quick lunch or awesome dinner of Mexican dining. Everyone is friendly and professional. Their Margaritas so delicious, you'll want another. The guacamole is homemade daily and amazing along with their queso dip and chips served with salsa hot or mild. Their are always specials so if your not sure what your in the mood for, the staff is helpful to recommend a dish. Make the drive to La Fiesta for your next lunch or dinner out, where you will feel as part of the family. We Love La Fiesta!
(5)
Ashley T.
we stopped here on our way back home from sarasota. i wanted mexican food and the next billboard we saw was for this place. it is located conveniently right off I-75. (although the parking lot is slightly confusing on the way out!) we were immediately seated and our server was very friendly. they offer you either mild, hot, or both salsas. we chose both and we preferred the hot salsa to the mild. we ordered a couple beers and our food. my husband chose the vegetarian chimichanga and i chose the grilled fish tacos. his was tasty but way cheesy. some may consider that a good thing but we both thought it was a little too cheesy. i really liked the fish tacos. they were simple and tasty. they came with an avocado sauce that was nice too. also their rice and beans were really great. the best of either i've had in a long time at a mexican restaurant. i wish this place was closer to home!
(4)
Andrew B.
¡AsÃ, asÃ, amigos! If one star is the baja flavored horse meat goodness of Taco Bell, and five stars is as if you were at casa de Juan Valdez, then this place is a solid three. El Average-o. Rolling up to La Fiesta, you think: welp, this probably isn't going to be earth shattering. And you know what? It isn't! But I can tell you that the food will be warmed and served to you alarmingly fast...as if they knew you were coming. If you're traveling and you have the incredible urge for the most amazing mediocre food, pack your sombrero for La Fiesta. For something actually good, you should probably go elsewhere.
(3)
Jamie H.
Let me preface this by saying I'm sort of a mexican food snob. I lived in California for 26 years. I had amazing, authentic, exciting mexican food at my disposal and sort of took it for granted. That is, until I moved to North Florida. What passess for mexican here would get laughed out of california faster than you can say "taco". So, when I give La Fiesta 3 stars, it means that they're probably the best of the blah. If you care about authentic flavors and having a meal that won't put you to sleep, go to La Tienda. If you can't make it to La Tienda, go to La Fiesta.
(2)
Gregg M.
My wife and I went to lunch there today. If this is a Mexican restaurant then I am very confused. My wife ordered the Steak Fajita lunch it was very bland, very little meat and greasy. I ordered the lunch special #3. It has a beef and bean burrito that had no taste and extremely bland also. The Burrito had no cheese, no sauce, no sour cream so in other words it was a flour tortilla, beans and beef. My taco was as bland as the rest of the meal. Beef, cheese and lettuce. Their was no hint of seasoning in either meal, no taste at all. Service was ok. When I was asked how my meal was by the cashier I said bland and he said would you like a copy of your receipt? He ignored everyrhing else I said. We spent $27.00 with tip and it definitely was not worth it!. This will be our last visit to LA Fiesta.
(1)
Michael P.
So first off the service is fast and friendly. Food came out fast which was good and bad. Mexican enchilada and burrito ranchero were warm not hot. On the other hand the refried beans were tremendous and so was the queso. Kids meal chicken fingers were the real deal. Overall really good as we did arrive half hour before closing.
(4)
John D.
Coty S. Nailed it. We stayed at a hotel down the street and were too tired to forage further than La Fiesta's for dinner. The food is harmless, if not bland. Margaritas taste more like paint thinner and flat Sprite than anything else. You could do worse, but I think any of the fast food places nearby would be just as good, if not safer.
Takes Reservations : Yes 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 : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
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.
micah j.
Consider this a review of both locations- I see the owners and staff in both restaurants, and my experience has been great at both this one and the Newberry Road location. I have always had complimentary warm, crisp chips and the salsa (especially the hot) is the best in town, but that's just my taste. They have a lot of great lunch specials, and I leave happy and full for less than $10. That's work lunch; dinner with the family is always enjoyable, as well. They bring out crayons and coloring books for the kids, and interact with them a little. They don't put hot plates or knives near the kids, which a scary large number of other places do. They have the obligatory XX on tap, and fried ice cream, flan, churros, for dessert. How does Dos Equis go so well with Mexican food, anyway? But, I digress. Birthday parties are exciting, they bring out a sombrero and sing, which some people enjoy, and embarasses others. While the service has always been good, I like the food, which is pretty authentic, plain, and delicious, with maybe a little TexMex in there, but I'm fine with that. For me, it's a familiar place with just good food. I should add that this location is larger and more spacious, not packed in like Newberry Road.
(5)Roshni S.
I love La Fiesta. It's my favorite Mexican restaurant in all of Florida. The staff is very friendly and constantly checked up on me. The place is big so it can fit any party big or small. I haven't been to Gainesville in about 5 years. I was very disappointed when I went to the old location thinking that la fiesta and closed down completely. To my joy I realized the 39th st location was still open. I got the hot salsa which is made fresh. It's so flavorful. I also got the enchilada dinner with cheese and onion enchiladas. They were delicious. They don't put that fake Velvetta like cheese in there. in the past I've also had their guac tostada which is also tasty. It is definitely a treat to get to go to la fiesta! I wish they would open a location in Tampa!
(5)Joseph H.
Very fast. Cheap, and good food. A decent bar. The atmosphere is loud and sports bar.
(4)Colin C.
They have the most amazing Chile Relleno in the world. I have eaten all over California, all the popular places here in town, and nobody comes close to La Fiesta. The beans here are so good that I normally order a bucket sized bowl whenever I come in. I don't know how they cook them, but they have unique flavor. Not like the bland beans and rice most places serve. Plus the servers and staff are really polite and attentive. Wish they would open a downtown location for late night after bar grubbing.
(5)Lea T.
This is the place to go for an quick lunch or awesome dinner of Mexican dining. Everyone is friendly and professional. Their Margaritas so delicious, you'll want another. The guacamole is homemade daily and amazing along with their queso dip and chips served with salsa hot or mild. Their are always specials so if your not sure what your in the mood for, the staff is helpful to recommend a dish. Make the drive to La Fiesta for your next lunch or dinner out, where you will feel as part of the family. We Love La Fiesta!
(5)Ashley T.
we stopped here on our way back home from sarasota. i wanted mexican food and the next billboard we saw was for this place. it is located conveniently right off I-75. (although the parking lot is slightly confusing on the way out!) we were immediately seated and our server was very friendly. they offer you either mild, hot, or both salsas. we chose both and we preferred the hot salsa to the mild. we ordered a couple beers and our food. my husband chose the vegetarian chimichanga and i chose the grilled fish tacos. his was tasty but way cheesy. some may consider that a good thing but we both thought it was a little too cheesy. i really liked the fish tacos. they were simple and tasty. they came with an avocado sauce that was nice too. also their rice and beans were really great. the best of either i've had in a long time at a mexican restaurant. i wish this place was closer to home!
(4)Andrew B.
¡AsÃ, asÃ, amigos! If one star is the baja flavored horse meat goodness of Taco Bell, and five stars is as if you were at casa de Juan Valdez, then this place is a solid three. El Average-o. Rolling up to La Fiesta, you think: welp, this probably isn't going to be earth shattering. And you know what? It isn't! But I can tell you that the food will be warmed and served to you alarmingly fast...as if they knew you were coming. If you're traveling and you have the incredible urge for the most amazing mediocre food, pack your sombrero for La Fiesta. For something actually good, you should probably go elsewhere.
(3)Jamie H.
Let me preface this by saying I'm sort of a mexican food snob. I lived in California for 26 years. I had amazing, authentic, exciting mexican food at my disposal and sort of took it for granted. That is, until I moved to North Florida. What passess for mexican here would get laughed out of california faster than you can say "taco". So, when I give La Fiesta 3 stars, it means that they're probably the best of the blah. If you care about authentic flavors and having a meal that won't put you to sleep, go to La Tienda. If you can't make it to La Tienda, go to La Fiesta.
(2)Gregg M.
My wife and I went to lunch there today. If this is a Mexican restaurant then I am very confused. My wife ordered the Steak Fajita lunch it was very bland, very little meat and greasy. I ordered the lunch special #3. It has a beef and bean burrito that had no taste and extremely bland also. The Burrito had no cheese, no sauce, no sour cream so in other words it was a flour tortilla, beans and beef. My taco was as bland as the rest of the meal. Beef, cheese and lettuce. Their was no hint of seasoning in either meal, no taste at all. Service was ok. When I was asked how my meal was by the cashier I said bland and he said would you like a copy of your receipt? He ignored everyrhing else I said. We spent $27.00 with tip and it definitely was not worth it!. This will be our last visit to LA Fiesta.
(1)Michael P.
So first off the service is fast and friendly. Food came out fast which was good and bad. Mexican enchilada and burrito ranchero were warm not hot. On the other hand the refried beans were tremendous and so was the queso. Kids meal chicken fingers were the real deal. Overall really good as we did arrive half hour before closing.
(4)John D.
Coty S. Nailed it. We stayed at a hotel down the street and were too tired to forage further than La Fiesta's for dinner. The food is harmless, if not bland. Margaritas taste more like paint thinner and flat Sprite than anything else. You could do worse, but I think any of the fast food places nearby would be just as good, if not safer.
(2)Coty S.
This La Fiesta location appears to have everything going for it: -excellent location right off of I-75 -great service -festive and casual atmosphere that just puts you in a good mood as you as you enter -immaculately clean dining area -plenty of outdoor patio seating at the front and back of the establishment Unfortunately, I base my reviews on food served... Everything I have eaten here is totally bland, including the salsa. Yes, including the "spicy" salsa. How do you make salsa bland? The burrito was bland, the taco was bland, the enchilada was bland, the cheese dip was bland, the fried ice cream was bland. The only item I like here is the complimentary basket of chips because they were warm, crispy, and super thin. I ate here, I am over it, I can move on now. Never to return.
(2)David D.
Lunch report: Crowd on a Friday picked up after 12pm so expect a bit of a rush. Service was quick (perhaps a bit too pushy). Chicken chimichanga lunch portion was a tad small and little cool on one side of the center which makes me wonder if a microwave was getting a workout in the kitchen. Salsa & chips were free and tasty. Price was reasonable. Not outstanding but not the worst either. 2.75 out of 5.
(3)Gordon M.
Not very authentic. my enchiladas had this nasty, salty, cheese sauce poured over them, that solidified. I have to say I felt rather unwell, while eating it and had to stop. Keep it authentic people!! Americans will eat authentic mexican food!!
(1)Bruce B.
My favorite Mexican food joint! The food and service(usually) are excellent! The owners are always on sight and do their absolute best to make sure the customer are being taken care of properly. They have an extensive selection of Tequila, with LOTS of high end top shelf stuff! The prices are very reasonable on the even the most exotic Tequilas! The other adult beverages are priced fairly and poured generously. Oh yeah the food! I've NEVER been disappointed with a meal there. That's a strong statement, but true. I made an error once and ordered Chile Rellenos and forgot to order them without meat-not at all my preference, but they were still tasty! My wife and I will sometimes split an order of the chicken nachos supreme and it's a meal in itself! The cheese dip is to die for. My wife has tried to duplicate it and the seasoning they use with the shredded chicken (without luck).
(5)Keith S.
Best restaurant in town! The queso and taquitos are absolutely amazing! I highly recommended this to anyone who wants a great place to eat. Food is served quickly and the service is great.
(5)Erin P.
I have passed by this many times, as I live off 39th and it's on my work route. Finally went in and we were not disappointed! My husband had the carnitas and I had the vegetarian chimichanga plate. Mine wasn't greasy, which surprised me- most are as they are fried. The rice was decent, but the refried beans were amazing. Usually it's a pasty, obviously- from- a- can slop with some cheese on it. These were smooth, and very tasty. The chips and salsa were good...I enjoy a really good, cilantro-y salsa and this was it. Didn't taste commercial at all. I wasn't able to finish, got through about 1/2 my entree before feeling full, but not uncomfortable like I have at other Mexican restaurants from all the grease. The service was really good too. The waitstaff really helped each other out, our drinks were refilled by someone passing by, plates were removed, etc. It was really refreshing. And the environment was awesome as well. The music was at the right level, and I saw large parties being seated with no issue. We will absolutely come back!
(5)Charles L.
Best chicken steak fajita hot and sizzling always comes with great customer service and speedy refills on the sweet tea. My daughter loves the cheese dip and hot fresh chips nothing like a fried ice cream to finish off a great meal!
(5)Dee C.
Phenomenal food, great service, and very clean! The shredded beef chimichangas are not to be missed. Their guacamole is also fantastic. Highly recommended!
(5)Tessa M.
The only Mexican food place in town that's good, that we know of. Every time family is in town they want to come here. They are closed on Sundays. We call the one near the mall the old one- hard to find a parking space And the one on 39th the new one - it's a little nicer but the food seems to be a little different maybe a little bland.
(4)Vicki M.
Really good food, fast service, friendly staff, excellent margaritas, no complains!
(5)Tamika S.
Delicious, Authentic Mexican Food, Inexpensive, and Clean Atmosphere
(5)Debra B.
Very tasty cheese & onion enchilda and very good beef taco. Yummie salsa (mild version for me) and crispy, warm chips. Friendly, prompt service. Rice was also very good. Lunch special was $5.50. Great price! I ate lunch but went and looked at patio which seemed nice and good place for margarita after work. The manager showed me out to patio which was after I told waitress I just wanted a quick look. Very nice&friendly place.
(5)Kevin L.
Couldn't ask for better food and service. Great, reasonably priced lunch specials. So glad I found this place while I was in Gainesville.
(5)Peeico P.
Reliable, decently priced. Wednesday is taco night. Got two chicken tacos, and my wife the beef on corn tortillas. Our 17 year old son got the enchiladas and couldn't finish, so that will be the midnight snack, I am sure.
(3)Vicky Z.
Good taste, reasonable price, and awesome service. We tried Fajita, too big for one person, but taste awesome.
(4)Wilhelmina R.
This place is super fast for lunch. You can definitely be in and out in 30 minutes. The food is accidentally an Italian Mexican fusion. Instead of salsa, they give you marinara sauce. Also, the refried beans have a lot of sugar to taste. Maybe like a baked bean style of flavoring, even though they look normal. Chile relleno is legit with a pablano pepper and not some fake bell pepper. Lunch is pretty cheap, and fast, so I go back.
(4)Erin P.
I have passed by this many times, as I live off 39th and it's on my work route. Finally went in and we were not disappointed! My husband had the carnitas and I had the vegetarian chimichanga plate. Mine wasn't greasy, which surprised me- most are as they are fried. The rice was decent, but the refried beans were amazing. Usually it's a pasty, obviously- from- a- can slop with some cheese on it. These were smooth, and very tasty. The chips and salsa were good...I enjoy a really good, cilantro-y salsa and this was it. Didn't taste commercial at all. I wasn't able to finish, got through about 1/2 my entree before feeling full, but not uncomfortable like I have at other Mexican restaurants from all the grease. The service was really good too. The waitstaff really helped each other out, our drinks were refilled by someone passing by, plates were removed, etc. It was really refreshing. And the environment was awesome as well. The music was at the right level, and I saw large parties being seated with no issue. We will absolutely come back!
(5)Charles L.
Best chicken steak fajita hot and sizzling always comes with great customer service and speedy refills on the sweet tea. My daughter loves the cheese dip and hot fresh chips nothing like a fried ice cream to finish off a great meal!
(5)Dee C.
Phenomenal food, great service, and very clean! The shredded beef chimichangas are not to be missed. Their guacamole is also fantastic. Highly recommended!
(5)Tessa M.
The only Mexican food place in town that's good, that we know of. Every time family is in town they want to come here. They are closed on Sundays. We call the one near the mall the old one- hard to find a parking space And the one on 39th the new one - it's a little nicer but the food seems to be a little different maybe a little bland.
(4)Vicki M.
Really good food, fast service, friendly staff, excellent margaritas, no complains!
(5)Gordon M.
Not very authentic. my enchiladas had this nasty, salty, cheese sauce poured over them, that solidified. I have to say I felt rather unwell, while eating it and had to stop. Keep it authentic people!! Americans will eat authentic mexican food!!
(1)Tamika S.
Delicious, Authentic Mexican Food, Inexpensive, and Clean Atmosphere
(5)Debra B.
Very tasty cheese & onion enchilda and very good beef taco. Yummie salsa (mild version for me) and crispy, warm chips. Friendly, prompt service. Rice was also very good. Lunch special was $5.50. Great price! I ate lunch but went and looked at patio which seemed nice and good place for margarita after work. The manager showed me out to patio which was after I told waitress I just wanted a quick look. Very nice&friendly place.
(5)micah j.
Consider this a review of both locations- I see the owners and staff in both restaurants, and my experience has been great at both this one and the Newberry Road location. I have always had complimentary warm, crisp chips and the salsa (especially the hot) is the best in town, but that's just my taste. They have a lot of great lunch specials, and I leave happy and full for less than $10. That's work lunch; dinner with the family is always enjoyable, as well. They bring out crayons and coloring books for the kids, and interact with them a little. They don't put hot plates or knives near the kids, which a scary large number of other places do. They have the obligatory XX on tap, and fried ice cream, flan, churros, for dessert. How does Dos Equis go so well with Mexican food, anyway? But, I digress. Birthday parties are exciting, they bring out a sombrero and sing, which some people enjoy, and embarasses others. While the service has always been good, I like the food, which is pretty authentic, plain, and delicious, with maybe a little TexMex in there, but I'm fine with that. For me, it's a familiar place with just good food. I should add that this location is larger and more spacious, not packed in like Newberry Road.
(5)Coty S.
This La Fiesta location appears to have everything going for it: -excellent location right off of I-75 -great service -festive and casual atmosphere that just puts you in a good mood as you as you enter -immaculately clean dining area -plenty of outdoor patio seating at the front and back of the establishment Unfortunately, I base my reviews on food served... Everything I have eaten here is totally bland, including the salsa. Yes, including the "spicy" salsa. How do you make salsa bland? The burrito was bland, the taco was bland, the enchilada was bland, the cheese dip was bland, the fried ice cream was bland. The only item I like here is the complimentary basket of chips because they were warm, crispy, and super thin. I ate here, I am over it, I can move on now. Never to return.
(2)David D.
Lunch report: Crowd on a Friday picked up after 12pm so expect a bit of a rush. Service was quick (perhaps a bit too pushy). Chicken chimichanga lunch portion was a tad small and little cool on one side of the center which makes me wonder if a microwave was getting a workout in the kitchen. Salsa & chips were free and tasty. Price was reasonable. Not outstanding but not the worst either. 2.75 out of 5.
(3)Bruce B.
My favorite Mexican food joint! The food and service(usually) are excellent! The owners are always on sight and do their absolute best to make sure the customer are being taken care of properly. They have an extensive selection of Tequila, with LOTS of high end top shelf stuff! The prices are very reasonable on the even the most exotic Tequilas! The other adult beverages are priced fairly and poured generously. Oh yeah the food! I've NEVER been disappointed with a meal there. That's a strong statement, but true. I made an error once and ordered Chile Rellenos and forgot to order them without meat-not at all my preference, but they were still tasty! My wife and I will sometimes split an order of the chicken nachos supreme and it's a meal in itself! The cheese dip is to die for. My wife has tried to duplicate it and the seasoning they use with the shredded chicken (without luck).
(5)Keith S.
Best restaurant in town! The queso and taquitos are absolutely amazing! I highly recommended this to anyone who wants a great place to eat. Food is served quickly and the service is great.
(5)Kevin L.
Couldn't ask for better food and service. Great, reasonably priced lunch specials. So glad I found this place while I was in Gainesville.
(5)Roshni S.
I love La Fiesta. It's my favorite Mexican restaurant in all of Florida. The staff is very friendly and constantly checked up on me. The place is big so it can fit any party big or small. I haven't been to Gainesville in about 5 years. I was very disappointed when I went to the old location thinking that la fiesta and closed down completely. To my joy I realized the 39th st location was still open. I got the hot salsa which is made fresh. It's so flavorful. I also got the enchilada dinner with cheese and onion enchiladas. They were delicious. They don't put that fake Velvetta like cheese in there. in the past I've also had their guac tostada which is also tasty. It is definitely a treat to get to go to la fiesta! I wish they would open a location in Tampa!
(5)Peeico P.
Reliable, decently priced. Wednesday is taco night. Got two chicken tacos, and my wife the beef on corn tortillas. Our 17 year old son got the enchiladas and couldn't finish, so that will be the midnight snack, I am sure.
(3)Vicky Z.
Good taste, reasonable price, and awesome service. We tried Fajita, too big for one person, but taste awesome.
(4)Wilhelmina R.
This place is super fast for lunch. You can definitely be in and out in 30 minutes. The food is accidentally an Italian Mexican fusion. Instead of salsa, they give you marinara sauce. Also, the refried beans have a lot of sugar to taste. Maybe like a baked bean style of flavoring, even though they look normal. Chile relleno is legit with a pablano pepper and not some fake bell pepper. Lunch is pretty cheap, and fast, so I go back.
(4)Joseph H.
Very fast. Cheap, and good food. A decent bar. The atmosphere is loud and sports bar.
(4)Colin C.
They have the most amazing Chile Relleno in the world. I have eaten all over California, all the popular places here in town, and nobody comes close to La Fiesta. The beans here are so good that I normally order a bucket sized bowl whenever I come in. I don't know how they cook them, but they have unique flavor. Not like the bland beans and rice most places serve. Plus the servers and staff are really polite and attentive. Wish they would open a downtown location for late night after bar grubbing.
(5)Lea T.
This is the place to go for an quick lunch or awesome dinner of Mexican dining. Everyone is friendly and professional. Their Margaritas so delicious, you'll want another. The guacamole is homemade daily and amazing along with their queso dip and chips served with salsa hot or mild. Their are always specials so if your not sure what your in the mood for, the staff is helpful to recommend a dish. Make the drive to La Fiesta for your next lunch or dinner out, where you will feel as part of the family. We Love La Fiesta!
(5)Ashley T.
we stopped here on our way back home from sarasota. i wanted mexican food and the next billboard we saw was for this place. it is located conveniently right off I-75. (although the parking lot is slightly confusing on the way out!) we were immediately seated and our server was very friendly. they offer you either mild, hot, or both salsas. we chose both and we preferred the hot salsa to the mild. we ordered a couple beers and our food. my husband chose the vegetarian chimichanga and i chose the grilled fish tacos. his was tasty but way cheesy. some may consider that a good thing but we both thought it was a little too cheesy. i really liked the fish tacos. they were simple and tasty. they came with an avocado sauce that was nice too. also their rice and beans were really great. the best of either i've had in a long time at a mexican restaurant. i wish this place was closer to home!
(4)Andrew B.
¡AsÃ, asÃ, amigos! If one star is the baja flavored horse meat goodness of Taco Bell, and five stars is as if you were at casa de Juan Valdez, then this place is a solid three. El Average-o. Rolling up to La Fiesta, you think: welp, this probably isn't going to be earth shattering. And you know what? It isn't! But I can tell you that the food will be warmed and served to you alarmingly fast...as if they knew you were coming. If you're traveling and you have the incredible urge for the most amazing mediocre food, pack your sombrero for La Fiesta. For something actually good, you should probably go elsewhere.
(3)Jamie H.
Let me preface this by saying I'm sort of a mexican food snob. I lived in California for 26 years. I had amazing, authentic, exciting mexican food at my disposal and sort of took it for granted. That is, until I moved to North Florida. What passess for mexican here would get laughed out of california faster than you can say "taco". So, when I give La Fiesta 3 stars, it means that they're probably the best of the blah. If you care about authentic flavors and having a meal that won't put you to sleep, go to La Tienda. If you can't make it to La Tienda, go to La Fiesta.
(2)Gregg M.
My wife and I went to lunch there today. If this is a Mexican restaurant then I am very confused. My wife ordered the Steak Fajita lunch it was very bland, very little meat and greasy. I ordered the lunch special #3. It has a beef and bean burrito that had no taste and extremely bland also. The Burrito had no cheese, no sauce, no sour cream so in other words it was a flour tortilla, beans and beef. My taco was as bland as the rest of the meal. Beef, cheese and lettuce. Their was no hint of seasoning in either meal, no taste at all. Service was ok. When I was asked how my meal was by the cashier I said bland and he said would you like a copy of your receipt? He ignored everyrhing else I said. We spent $27.00 with tip and it definitely was not worth it!. This will be our last visit to LA Fiesta.
(1)Michael P.
So first off the service is fast and friendly. Food came out fast which was good and bad. Mexican enchilada and burrito ranchero were warm not hot. On the other hand the refried beans were tremendous and so was the queso. Kids meal chicken fingers were the real deal. Overall really good as we did arrive half hour before closing.
(4)John D.
Coty S. Nailed it. We stayed at a hotel down the street and were too tired to forage further than La Fiesta's for dinner. The food is harmless, if not bland. Margaritas taste more like paint thinner and flat Sprite than anything else. You could do worse, but I think any of the fast food places nearby would be just as good, if not safer.
(2)