La Fiesta
8825 Centre Park Dr, Columbia, MD, 21045
La Fiesta Menu
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Visit below restaurant in Columbia for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Columbia for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Columbia for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
8825 Centre Park Dr
Columbia, MD, 21045 - Phone (410) 997-7182
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Opening Hours
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Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Dinner
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : No
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Quiet
Alcohol : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : Paid
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : Yes
Categories
Mexican Cuisine
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.
Pizza
Pizza is a famous Italian dish savored around the world. The entire credit for the popularity of Pizza in the United States goes to the chain of pizzerias all over the country. While the base and the texture of Pizza remains same across the globe, it's the toppings that differs from country to country. In the United States, you will find the top pizzerias serving pizzas with the toppings of mainly beef, bacon, chicken, ham, and sausage for the non-vegetarians. Other than these famous meat options, Pizzas with veg toppings such as mushrooms, pepperonis, garlic, tomatoes, spinach, etc. are also famous in most restaurants in the United States.
Irrespective of your locality, you will find a variety of different restaurants in your cities offering pizzas of all different types. Pizza is hot favorite among people of all ages in the United States. A large size pizza is enough to feed a family of 3 or 4 at large. Pizza is also the most preferred food whenever a group of friends is hanging out together. Pizza gained popularity in the United States after the American soldiers stationed in Italy returned from World War II.
Over the years, different pizzerias in the United States have developed their own respective regional variations. Pizza gained popularity as the iconic dish in the United States in the second half of the 20th century. Whether you prefer thin or thick crust pizza, you can find a pizza of your preference at the best pizza restaurants in your city.
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John C.
Let's just keep this short and sweet. The interior reminds me of a bad Mexican-themed mini golf course. My "steak taco" must have been the kitchen's idea of a joke. It was a hard taco shell filled with greasy ground beef and finely-shredded industrial cheese. My wife's enchiladas were bland, and both the enchilada sauce and refried beans were probably from a can. The server was nice enough. The meal (plus a margarita) cost us $20. If you like the Taco Bell brand hard-shell taco kits from the "Mexican" aisle at the grocery store (located two aisles over from the one with food that Hispanic people *actually* eat), then go for it! If you actually like Mexican food and value your money, then just stay away.
(1)Bob J.
My wife and mother-in-law (both very picky) go here. This morning I went with my wife and got a Chorizo Burrito. I was in Man Heaven! They brought me a burrito STUFFED with scrambled eggs, spicy sausage, jalapenos and cheddar cheese...lots and lots of cheddar cheese. Their chili con queso was also muy excellente. Anyway, that burrito made me feel like such a Man that, after we left the restaurant, I brought my wife to a Staples so she could get some accounting supplies. Near the front door, there was a snow scraper that looked like it could de-ice a tank. I bought it. Blame the burrito. It was SO damn good, it forced me to do a Man Impulse Buy. I'm headed back to La Fiesta soon!
(5)Vivian K.
so here's to you columbia, one of the only suburbs i've ever been in that can really use 'family life' as it's motto.. everything's within 15 minutes away, and as a secret-suburb-lover-when-i-have-kids, this is definitely a place for a great dinner, or just a pit stop when you're traveling between baltimore and DC. hmmphh.. so here's how it went down.. once a upon a time, my bf and i were looking for something to eat at lunch, and remembered, that on centre park dr. there's a thai restaurant next to a giant. it was a brisk sunday afternoon, and we just drooled over the possibilities of what to order as we drove into the plaza.. but to our dismay, the thai place was CLOSED.. dum dum DUUMMM... ( background music really makes the effect just that better). what are we going to do?? as i stare at my bf's "home alone" face, i glanced next door to find, that la fiesta, is opened.. i walked over to my bf.. held him in my arms.. and then i consoled him with the thought of some mexican food.. so, 15 minutes later, we were warming up with some salsa, chips and water, as we glanced at the menu.. since i have ADD, i begin to look everywhere to check out the place.. PLUSES: 1) there's a bar, and they have margarita nite.. 2) at the bar, there's several types of tequila.. 3) the bathroom and the hallway to it, is clean.. no slippage expected .. and 4) the decor is obviously mexican, but it's clean and neat and nothing that would make me cringe.. MINUSES: it's a place for individuals, couples and .. ** as aaron R cringes in his socks** kids !!!!!!!! so, finally, finishing my ADD lapse, i check the menu.. it's a lil' more pricier than i'd expect.. there's no lunch menu, just one menu.. ( i mean, mexican food should be $12.00 and under... unless i'm speaking on behalf of all cheap asians).. BUT they offer some interesting meals.. there's lots of lump crabmeat on this menu and that's unheard of for me.. you know, crabmeat and mexican, unless here i go again, showing off my unculturedness... the nice smiling waitor comes around, and we finally order : i get this seafood thing with shrimp, crabmeat, rice and soup.. ( i eat alot).. and the bf gets a crab burrito with rice. the soup was a spinach soup,.. and it's like non i've had before.. cavewoman impression: spinach soup .. good.. mmm.. goood.. but the winning dish.. the most satisfying and delectable and fulfilling and worthy of returning every day dish.. is.. is.. TA DAAA!!!!! the crab burrito, which i got to taste, and was envious of my bf for the day... it's this huge, enormous, burrito full of JUST CRABMEAT and covered with a light layer of cheese and a ton of this garlic wine cream sauce.. i could swim in it .. it was really garlicky.. but it was soo delish, and you can taste every bit of the herbs, spices and wine in this sauce.. i practically was licking the plate when he was done.. and that's quite sad.. final price for our hefty lunch $30.. maybe a lil' more than expected for lunch, but worthwhile for dinner.. since that's the price for two. so, when someone asks you if you wanna go to la fiesta.. you say : "call me a sissy and slap my silly, get my ass there as fast as you can!!!" .
(5)F D.
The enchiladas were eatable, but my wife's taco salad wasn't good. Qdoba is better.
(1)Patrick S.
I don't understand all 4 and 5 star reviews for this restaurant. I work nearby and have been here for lunch and dinner a few times. Each time I realize what a bad idea it was! The ingredients used are low quality. I agree with another reviewer who likened their food with the taco kits you can get at the grocery store. I eat Mexican regularly (I'm from Southern California and have been to Mexico many times) and usually don't have problems, but I've had indigestion more than once after eating here. The ambiance is very tacky, which wouldn't bother me if the food was decent. I don't remember having any problems with the service. I do realize there are not a lot of Mexican choices in Columbia, but you could do better than this place. Check out Lily's Mexican Market for some great take out!
(1)Don R.
Friendly, relaxing, good service, hot food, quiet enough to talk to your date without all the nonsense and noise found at most other places in the area.
(5)Donna H.
The waiter forgot our 2 year olds food, brought it when we were almost done and she ate off of us then charged us $6.00 and refused to take it off the bill. When we spoke to the manger he got very upset and said no free food, put his finger in our face and yelled disrespectfully in the restaurant in front of everyone. Our bill was 135.00 which we paid and left no tip. The manager followed us out of the restaurant still yelling at us.
(2)Julia F.
Very disappointing. I was really hoping that this restaurant would be good and that they would be respectful when you let them know you have food allergies. I guess not! Plus the food tastes old and the salsa is sub-par. Not my worst food experience, but certainly not the best.
(1)Guv M.
Great convienent local restaurant. They do have a decent lunch menu, and dinner is always good, but their secret is a a really solid breakfast on the weekends, no one is ever there and the food is very fresh. The french fries are addictive and the portions huge. The story is of a immigrant fron iran who came to this country and fell in love with mexican food, that is why all the servers (the men anyway) are persian, but trust me the food is solid, I would not travel up from DC but if you are in the area very tasty.
(4)Shaun M.
2 stars because the food is edible, and doesn't taste bad. I had 2 steak enchiladas with Señor Ram (eew) sauce w/ rice n beans. The rice & beans were good. The server flustrated himself and couldn't get the orders right. Nothing about the food was "Authentic Mexican" actually the food screamed "Tex-Mex" but I've only had Tex-Mex once while at the River-Walk in San Antonio and that was 5 years ago. I think I'd have better luck going to On The Border. The options here are limited. No Camarones a la Diabla, no Chicken or Steak Milanesa, no Cabbage Salsa. Disappointing.
(2)Danny C.
I don't care about the decor of this place. I just wanna eat! I don't understand why people have such expectations to see ONLY Hispanics working at Tex-Mex places and if they don't see that, they think it's odd. So what? Misconceptions of society. After doing a back and triceps work out, I decided to come here for buffet. I came right when it opened and they said in about 5 minutes, I can eat. Cool, so I ordered an unsweetened iced tea and they gave me some chips and salsa. The chips were warm and the salsa had a kick to it. In fact the salsa was pretty tasty. I used that salsa as a dip for some of my buffet items because it was so good. I waited a few minutes when my waiter informed me that I could go ahead and devour their mid-sized buffet. I should have taken pictures of the buffet but I was so hungry that I forgot... There are 3 cold appetizers and 3 hot appetizers including a make-your-own taco with all the usual toppings you can think of then there are about 5-7 trays of food and each tray consists of 2 kinds. There are also 2 big open plates of quesadillas and grilled chicken with veggies. There were foods like stuffed peppers which had strong hints of alcohol in em, 4 different kinds of mini-burritos which kinda tasted the same lol but still good and the usual rice and beans dishes. They also had a Chicken Curry but it's nothing like the Curry we all know. Since I came right when it opened, the food was fresh(er) and I enjoyed almost all of it. The only things I didn't enjoy much were their desserts. Crispy bread with honey drizzled on it which didn't taste like anything but honey and a pastry filled with fruit and drizzled with chocolate. Tasted like they made that dessert a while ago. Now before you decide to come here for the food, know that I was starving when I came. When people are starving, anything is delicious. So if you come and the food wasn't all that then don't blame me! haha Service was good because I was the only 1 there. The food was good and as I was about to leave, people started coming in. Even if La Fiesta has some low reviews, it's not stopping others from going. I'm definitely coming back for their buffet again soon!
(4)Chau M.
This was the only restaurant open July 4th- beggars cant be choosers. Its not authentic spanish food. Chicken was dry, salsa came out of a can, & $17 a dish!!! Margaritas were good though.
(1)Brook H.
The atmosphere is just so-so or leaves a little to be desired, but the food is pretty tasty and for an acceptable price!
(3)David M.
Don't go here. This isn't good Mexican. If you think it is, you need a reality check. I don't even think the people running the place are Mexican? Not to mention, the prices don't match the food. It's not the worst out there, but it's definitely not that good.
(1)Alison P.
We got enchiladas. The sauce was runny and the chicken was bland. While eating we were also afraid the table was going to collapse from the wall it was jerryrigged to at any moment. I guess we know know why they kept their lights so low.
(1)Samuel C.
2 stars because the food is edible, and it doesn't taste bad at all. The inside the restaurant looks nice like any normal Mexican restaurant. Now they serving buffet for lunch. I've been always found it to be interesting, but not really Tex-Mex food. The staff are nice and friendly. It seem like the staff are East Indian or Hispanic... The rice and beans are good. I like the tacos. Not worth eating at this place.
(2)Russ H.
Loved this place. Had chicken stuff jalapeños as an appetizer. So good. Perfect spiciness for me. Then I had a chicken and bacon quesadilla which totally rocked. Check this place out.
(5)Rishima P.
Awful. The food is not fresh not authentic it's crap. The place had gnats and flies. The cheese tasted frozen the sauces were gross. Straight from a can. Avoid this place at all costs. The buffet is terrible too. Chicken was dry the pork fajitas were raw. Ugh. What a waste of money and lunch. One and done. Will never be back here. Sorry.
(1)S B.
I grew up in southern Texas, which is where I developed a love of Mexican Food. Finding decent Mexican food in Maryland is definitely more difficult than down south, but this place more than passes. I had the lunch buffet. Not only was everything I tried (everything except the make your own tacos) solid Mexican food, it was really good.
(4)Karissa G.
There is so much shade thrown in previous reviews. I personally love this place. I consistently do take out and I've brought several friends here. I'm a big advocate of the queso, salsa, and enchilada platters. Also one of the few Mexican places that serves crab. I've always received excellent service, my water is always full, and I visit enough that the servers always carry on conversation. I encourage you to try the place and see for yourself!
(5)Jacquelyn J.
La Fiesta has been a big part of my childhood and adult life. Many an afternoon or evening was spent there with my grandparents and was always a favorite choice when asked by them, "What do you want to eat for your birthday?". I've continued going there loyally into my adulthood. So what makes this place so special? Well, first of all, of course there is the food. I am a sucker for their homemade salsa as well as anything that has their ranchero sauce on it. Also, the specialty ram sauce is an amazing treat. I know it's only made for steak dishes primarily... But you can put that sauce on anything in my opinion and it's awesome. However, more than the food, the thing that makes this place so special is the people whom work there. Most places you go to for food, you're just a customer. Sure, the waiters might be nice and do a decent job, but a lot of times, anywhere else, you still ultimately usually get the feeling you are just another body that the waiter/waitress is trying to please to get their big juicy tip. That's not La Fiesta. La Fiesta, you walk in? You're family. They are a place that genuinely care about you and make you feel like you are not just going to a restaurant to eat, but you are going home to family for dinner. It is rare to get that feeling anywhere else. While the food is awesome and I recommend it highly, I ask that that not be the only reason you go. I ask you to go because when you are there, you will be made to feel truly welcome...and that's not something you can get a lot of places anymore. La Fiesta gets (and will always get) 5 stars from me.
(5)Joe S.
Dissatisfied. Mexican food for gringos. Total lack of understanding of Mexican cuisine and flavors. The margaritas had booze in them, so at least they had that going for them. Save your money and go somewhere else better, like Chipotle...
(1)Phil B.
In my never ending quest to find just one decent mexican restaurant in Columbia, I vsited this dump. It's not good. Decor is dated, old and greasy. Bartender/waiter is of Indian decent, which seemed odd. Food was just awful, and not cheap. Chimichanga, rice and beans had zero flavor. No hot sauce either! But the worst are the chips and salsa. Omg, I have never tasted so much garlic in one dish! Literally took days to get its out of my mouth. Why can't Columbia have just one decent Mexican restaurant?
(1)L. Michelle H.
La Fiesta serves a very old fashioned idea of Mexican food for Americans. The food and décor are a throwback to Chi Chi's and El Toritos of 30 years ago. The fresh, vibrant Mexican cuisine that is so popular now and so much better and readily available is not at all present in what is served at La Fiesta. Platters come covered in cheese and canned enchilada sauce with a side of dry rice and a cup of beans. Edible, but not especially enjoyable. Still, I wouldn't call the food bad, I just wouldn't call it Mexican. The service is quite good. The bar area looked comfortable and there was a nice television with soccer on. I plan to return for drinks and appetizers. Maybe for dessert - we didn't have any this time but the selection looked appealing. I just won't have dinner there again.
(2)Will S.
This is the best little hole in the wall spot. It totally deceives you by presentation but, the food is undeniably good for a $9.99 lunch buffet. Great coworker luncheon spot. I showed up at the top of the hour for the buffet and had to wait 15 minutes and guess what, it was worth it. Can somebody say Chimi-Changa??!!!!!
(5)Sandra B.
The guacamole dip is AMAZING! It's so creamy delicious that I swear there must be butter or something in the mix. I ordered the spinach enchiladas also very good. The bartender was friendly, food portions were enormous, and prices are fair for the area. Chips are thick and served warm. My only complaint is that the salsa tasted more like Siracha sauce than salsa (not bad, but not great). Margaritas were ok too, but I'll try the Sangria next time. Will definitely recommend to others and go back again.
(4)John L.
Warning! My manager and I went for lunch today. We were both so sick this evening that I had to write a review to warn people about this place. I had the chicken chimichanga which actually resembled turkey slices, dry and old. I cannot believe they would serve it. My manager got a chicken quesadilla which unfortunately for him, he ate the entire thing. He wrote me and said his stomach felt like a biochem explosion. I just felt Nassau all night. Beware of this place.....
(1)EmilyGrace D.
What is with all the 2stars?? I've been coming here since I was born and 19 years later I'm still here. Anyone who insults their food has clearly NEVER had their guacamole. No the staff is not Mexican but that doesn't determine the quality of the food, 9 out of 10 times I come to La Fiesta my server is Ramish and he is always amazing. I don't even need to order because when I walk in he already knows I want my guacamole, spinach enchilada and brownie Sunday. Where I am very stuck in my ways I can only attest for their A+ spinach enchiladas, salmon platter, guacamole, black bean soup and brownie sunday that have not disappointed me once in all of my 19 years. The restaurant decor is slightly outdated but it doesn't matter because they have brought in 2 life sized cut outs of the Dos Equis man and we all know he is the most interesting person in the world. For anyone who says their is never a single Mexican in the place they clearly haven't been because I am ALWAYS there. I celebrate my birthday, graduation, half birthday, and living there! Did someone really complain that the sauce on their burrito was running? You do know what sauce is right? I've been there during lunch hour before and my boyfriend really enjoys eating their buffet along with their chicken burrito. The owner is also very friendly and sits down and talks to his regular customers sometimes. Their is never a wait for a table except on Cinco de Mayo but don't let that scare you off because their food is truly amazing. Anyone looking for guacamole to die for really must stop by this fantastic restaurant but be warned! Their portions are VERY generous..watch your waistline!!
(5)Pauli K.
I've been coming here ever since I was a kid. La Fiesta is easily my favorite Mexican restaurant in the area--their tacos are fantastic (and my husband orders beef soft tacos every time), but the steak enchiladas are my favorite. That dark brown sauce is wonderful, very savory and spicy. The staff is also very courteous and kind! My family and I have been treated very nicely every time we come in. We usually come here for dinner, but the lunch buffet is incredible too!
(5)Joe C.
Margarita was poured out of a liquor store pre-mixed container. Salsa was completely salty. The chicken in the enchilada was a bit chunky but not too bad. The service was terrible even though the place was empty. The staff was not sure what to do and there was a definitive communication barrier between us and them. It's a shame because with the amount of traffic in area, that place could be packed. Probably will not return.
(2)Tim F.
Service was slow. Food was edible. Jalapeno poppers were excellent. Crab quesadilla was very good. Steak fajitas were of poor quality beef that was thinly sliced to make it chewable, mostly onions, and bland. Chicken fajitas were about the same. Fiesta burrito was half eaten by a hungry teenager. "Not good" was his comment. Tilapia tacos were very good but entirely too expensive. Add $3.50 PER TACO for fish instead of beef. 3 taco platter costs $22.00. We had 1 beer, 3 margaritas (2 virgin), 1 soda, and the food above. Bill was $111.00, which was about $61 more than it was worth. Won't be returning and don't recommend it.
(2)Chris W.
Not good. Horrible food, horrible service, sketchy clientele and not a single Latino in the place. The pico was made with chick peas, the cheese dip was canned, the refried beans were just pinto beans, and the cholula was merely red hot in cholula bottles (Seriously? We can't even get real cholula?). My burrito was also very small, the salsa was mostly garlic, and the chip basket came to the table only half full. My server was also the bartender, which probably wouldn't have been a big deal if the bar wasn't on the other side of the restaurant. He came to my table twice - order and check. My conclusion: Liquor must be the only thing keeping this place running. Other reviews say this is TexMex, it isn't. It is just bad food parading as something familiar for the excuse to have a bar.
(1)Francis U.
Not really Mexican food. The staff (owners? employees?) are from India. The cheese tastes like Velveeta. The margarita tastes like lime kool-aid.
(2)Melissa S.
I was actually trying to find the Jimmy John's off of Centre Park Dr. Saw La Fiesta there as I pulled in and thought Mexican sounded better for lunch. There was only one couple there but it was still early, 11:30 or so. It looked clean and decorated in the typical Mexican decor. I looked over the buffet which looked good but decided to get something to-go. The waiter was very nice and offered me something to drink and chips and salsa while I waited for my Chicken Burrito to-go. I opened the box when it came and it looked and smelled yummy. They gave me rice and beans on the side as well and the rest of the chips and salsa I was snacking on. I couldn't get back to my office soon enough to try it! Then it went downhill from there....the rice...okay, the beans...a little better than okay, the burrito...SOOOO disappointing!! It was just meat inside...bland, unseasoned chicken meat. No peppers, no onions, no sour cream, no cheese, NOTHING...JUST Chicken MEAT. The best part was the tortilla with the sauce and cheese on top used to wrap the meat. Definitely not worth the $10 I paid...WILL NOT BE BACK. There seriously can't be any self-respecting Mexican cooking in that kitchen.
(2)Karin T.
First, let me say this. I have never reviewed any business on yelp and because of this experience I decided now is the time! Woke up with a craving for Mexican food. Googled around and found this place for a lunch buffet. Close to my home and can't go wrong on buffet! NO, never again, NO, NO, NO!! Pulled into parking lot and noticed restaurant of different cuisine next door offering a lunch buffet....hum competition?... but let me stick with the plan and try this place. We, tween daughter and I, walk in and greeted immediately by nice friendly waitress, possible owner. Will say she was friendly, recommended the buffet while seating us and wondered off for a bit. Note: we were the only customers in the restaurant. We looked at the menu and came up with a game plan. While making this game plan, a "chef" started putting out dished on the buffet table. It took me about 3.5 seconds to realize that nobody has been in this restaurant all day (12:00pm) and now they have decided to stock the buffet for us......felt sad when I realized that...freaking sad....But hey, I haven't tried their food so let me not judge. Waitress pops up to deliver salsa and chips and our order, we go with recommendation of buffet for 2, order of chile con queso and basic drinks. I start attacking the salsa and......man that salsa is on point! As I'm eating the salsa like a pig, I'm watching the "chef" put more food on the buffet. Abut 15 minutes go by from entrance, salsa is dried up from me.. not my starving child and ample enough time for them to prepare for the buffet.....First walk through was so unimpressed! All the fixings for an excellent taco except taco meat...gasp... NO taco meat. WTF!!! OK, so I'm not getting my taco fill in today, let me think outside the box. A label of fajita chicken is next, my daughter gambles and gets that...Next, Beef??? or Chicken?? I Go with beef?? Next tray is...Rice and Curry...Well hell yes, not expecting curry but I always say YES to curry! Ok didn't do it first go around....read on... Next chafing dish is rice, black beans, and I guess? pinto beans? I'm guessing again....anyway it was a darker colored rice from the curry rice and 2 offerings of beans..looked nasty and skipped that chafing dish of puke. next was a open platter of chicken quesadilla and soft taco shells. Daughter and I both get quesadilla Next is a very sad cold food area... Ranch dressing!! freaking Ranch, Not sour cream, RANCH! a small hot chafing dish with what is actually in this mystery chicken meat......Pre-cut Tyson chicken.the kind of stuff you buy at the supermarket!! and I want to say onion rings and French fries were offered in that sheet pan! So that is first look at buffet...nothing but disappointment and lackluster food. Now first bite is another feeling.....Diarrhea!! Yes, Diarrhea is now a feeling I have. Loose bowels, poisoning yourself knowingly, thoughts of how far can I go from home until I know I'm screwed? All crossed my mind. Daughter decided n first meal, the fajitas... Looked like trouble to me so I said No! No! while she piled it on her plate, don't judge, LIKE I SAID, salsa was great, what does she know!! "MOM! it is cold" I touch the meat on her plate and sure enough...not even close to warm! Out the freezer cold! Hasn't seen a oven cold in at least 3 days cold!! I take a bite in my beef chmi spelling wrong so what should it be calledi? and that bitch is not only nasty but cold too!!! Frozen Cold in the center!! I break it apart, push to center of table and go for soft Tyson chicken taco....cold, no flavor and just plain nasty. It is at this pint the queso is delivered and I realize that I have been had! Queso is fresh out of a can and not even the good stuff you find at the movie theatre when you want to pig out. Nasty Salty half warm, microwave on 50% for a minute and pray these American idiots eat it and stay quiet about our crappy food type of queso! I didn't know you could get worse than movie nacho cheese but this place did!!! Now on to second plates for both of us...she filled her plate up with mostly edible quesadillas and a small portion of curry....I went back for my least favs.... Mexican rice and beans and we both tried the curry with rice. Lets just say the second place was the cherry on top in food poisoning standards!! I took one bite of the curry (note I just put curry sauce on rice and not the ...vegetable or .gasp...chicken) I was scared and now know for a good reason,,,bubble guts!!! My child did full curry on rice and 2 seconds asked to be excused to the bathroom. When she cam back her exact words were 'mom "we need to go home! this hurt my stomach! All in all, I paid $30 plus my crappy tip of $3 for salsa, 2 chips dipped in nasty cheese sauce, #bubbleguts #scaredpoop#
(1)Kendal M.
La Fiesta is actually pretty good! Large portions, good margaritas and good service. We go here when we just want some quick Mexican food and a good drink. Never disappointed!!
(4)Mandy R.
If I could have done 1/2 of a star I would. This place was such a disappointment to my husband and I. I can cook better Mexican food at home than this place. Even the take home kits from the grocery store are better than La Fiesta's Food. I should have known to walk out when I walked in and it was all Indian workers (not to mention the Indian restaurant right next door). First, the chips and salsa were good, but have had way better! The chips were not homemade like a true "Authentic" Mexican restaurant. The salsa was watered down. Second, I ordered the soft Chicken Tacos. They were horrible. The chicken looked like it was cooked days ago and then just put in the microwave to reheat. It was disgusting, I only took one bite. The flour tortillas were out of a bag and they used lettuce, tomatoes and cheddar cheese for the topping. I have never gone to a true Mexican restaurant and received that as a topping. I always get Pico de Gallo on my authentic Mexican tacos as a topping. My husband ordered the Steak Tacos. His were the same as mine. The steak was tough like it had been sitting out then reheated. I got my kids the Chicken Quesadillas, the chicken was the same in there Quesadillas. I would not let them eat it. Lastly there Rice and Beans were a joke. They should have been embarrassed to serve that to a family who are half Mexican half Caucasian. The rice I do not know what they did to that. Definitely not Spanish rice. It was yellow looking with red peppers. The beans looked dumped out of a can, not even cooked. Our bill came to $38 what a joke! I told the guy that the food was horrible, all of us only took a bite and he still charged us full price. I told him they need to take "Authentic Mexican" off their sign because this place is far from authentic. I should have just driven to El Salto in Brooklyn. They have true authentic Mexican food.
(1)Alyce M.
OK. Any place that has sangria automatically gets 2 stars from me. That being said, this place was really good. The wait staff is friendly, the food is good, and there's decent ambiance (they actually have a really nice aquarium!). The spinach enchiladas were really, really good. Their veggie quesadilla was also really good. I wasn't a huge fan of their salsa but the chips were so much better than the last few Mexican places I've been lately. And, of course, most importantly ... the sangria is wonderfully strong and delicious. It's definitely not worth being the main destination from DC but is definitely worth being the go-to restaurant if I'm in Columbia/Jessup/Laurel area.
(4)John C.
Let's just keep this short and sweet. The interior reminds me of a bad Mexican-themed mini golf course. My "steak taco" must have been the kitchen's idea of a joke. It was a hard taco shell filled with greasy ground beef and finely-shredded industrial cheese. My wife's enchiladas were bland, and both the enchilada sauce and refried beans were probably from a can. The server was nice enough. The meal (plus a margarita) cost us $20. If you like the Taco Bell brand hard-shell taco kits from the "Mexican" aisle at the grocery store (located two aisles over from the one with food that Hispanic people *actually* eat), then go for it! If you actually like Mexican food and value your money, then just stay away.
(1)DA K.
Ladies and Gentlemen, This place here is sad, I should have known something when the parking lot was empty and only one couple in the restaurant. We only stayed 3 mins, If I can give this place no stars I would. YELP need to add that option cause some of the places dont deserve shit. The place look dirty and sad. The table we sat at for 20 seconds was greasy, The menus was greasy. I looked at my baby. I said lets go. The place aint that busy they need to clean or something. That place needs chef ramsey. I know that place aint clean. I wish YELP had a health Inspector section cause I would definetly send them to this place. Please avoid if you value your time and money. You be warned! STAY TUNED
(1)Tracy L.
I have been going here since high school when our Spanish class would march us across the street to try some "authentic" Mexican food (I think the people who run it are actually of eastern European decent?). I think I like their chips and salsa best out of all the Mexican restaurants in the area, the chips are kind of thinner and crispier and the salsa builds up a nice heat. Lately I've just been getting the bean and cheese burrito, eating half of it and taking the other half home. By the next day the garlic has thoroughly seeped through the entire thing and it is delicious cold. I used to get a lot of the crab based burritos, which were really good but the garlic wine cream sauce is kind of rich and probably super high in calories (which I don't need after eating 2 baskets of the fried chips). The rice that comes on the side isn't very good, but I never think it is except the super expensive restaurants. Unfortunately this place is a little pricy, especially their drinks, I guess I am just too used to a $4 pablorita.
(3)Hoyt H.
Let me say right off that these three stars are based on this place as a restaurant, but not as a MEXICAN restaurant. I've been coming here off and on since 2002, and I've always found it to be interesting but not really Tex-Mex food. Maybe because everyone in the kitchen is East Indian instead of Hispanic? I do like much of the food. The seafood enchiladas are good, with a white wine cream sauce, and I like their chimis. Today, I had a crab quesadilla, which was decent, although I would have preferred it without the fries, and perhaps served with some type of pico de gallo or fruit-based salsa. The SO had a spinach and chicken burrito that she quite enjoyed. But as I said, it's just not quite.. Mexican ;) The salsa with the chips tastes more like chili sauce you might get with asian food. It's still good though. I keep going back once in a while, just not when I want authentic Mexican food. Still haven't really found a great place for that in MD, although Tampico in Laurel comes the closest so far. Service is fine, and this is a nice quiet restaurant for a chat. I haven't tried out the bar.
(3)Bob J.
My wife and mother-in-law (both very picky) go here. This morning I went with my wife and got a Chorizo Burrito. I was in Man Heaven! They brought me a burrito STUFFED with scrambled eggs, spicy sausage, jalapenos and cheddar cheese...lots and lots of cheddar cheese. Their chili con queso was also muy excellente. Anyway, that burrito made me feel like such a Man that, after we left the restaurant, I brought my wife to a Staples so she could get some accounting supplies. Near the front door, there was a snow scraper that looked like it could de-ice a tank. I bought it. Blame the burrito. It was SO damn good, it forced me to do a Man Impulse Buy. I'm headed back to La Fiesta soon!
(5)Vivian K.
so here's to you columbia, one of the only suburbs i've ever been in that can really use 'family life' as it's motto.. everything's within 15 minutes away, and as a secret-suburb-lover-when-i-have-kids, this is definitely a place for a great dinner, or just a pit stop when you're traveling between baltimore and DC. hmmphh.. so here's how it went down.. once a upon a time, my bf and i were looking for something to eat at lunch, and remembered, that on centre park dr. there's a thai restaurant next to a giant. it was a brisk sunday afternoon, and we just drooled over the possibilities of what to order as we drove into the plaza.. but to our dismay, the thai place was CLOSED.. dum dum DUUMMM... ( background music really makes the effect just that better). what are we going to do?? as i stare at my bf's "home alone" face, i glanced next door to find, that la fiesta, is opened.. i walked over to my bf.. held him in my arms.. and then i consoled him with the thought of some mexican food.. so, 15 minutes later, we were warming up with some salsa, chips and water, as we glanced at the menu.. since i have ADD, i begin to look everywhere to check out the place.. PLUSES: 1) there's a bar, and they have margarita nite.. 2) at the bar, there's several types of tequila.. 3) the bathroom and the hallway to it, is clean.. no slippage expected .. and 4) the decor is obviously mexican, but it's clean and neat and nothing that would make me cringe.. MINUSES: it's a place for individuals, couples and .. ** as aaron R cringes in his socks** kids !!!!!!!! so, finally, finishing my ADD lapse, i check the menu.. it's a lil' more pricier than i'd expect.. there's no lunch menu, just one menu.. ( i mean, mexican food should be $12.00 and under... unless i'm speaking on behalf of all cheap asians).. BUT they offer some interesting meals.. there's lots of lump crabmeat on this menu and that's unheard of for me.. you know, crabmeat and mexican, unless here i go again, showing off my unculturedness... the nice smiling waitor comes around, and we finally order : i get this seafood thing with shrimp, crabmeat, rice and soup.. ( i eat alot).. and the bf gets a crab burrito with rice. the soup was a spinach soup,.. and it's like non i've had before.. cavewoman impression: spinach soup .. good.. mmm.. goood.. but the winning dish.. the most satisfying and delectable and fulfilling and worthy of returning every day dish.. is.. is.. TA DAAA!!!!! the crab burrito, which i got to taste, and was envious of my bf for the day... it's this huge, enormous, burrito full of JUST CRABMEAT and covered with a light layer of cheese and a ton of this garlic wine cream sauce.. i could swim in it .. it was really garlicky.. but it was soo delish, and you can taste every bit of the herbs, spices and wine in this sauce.. i practically was licking the plate when he was done.. and that's quite sad.. final price for our hefty lunch $30.. maybe a lil' more than expected for lunch, but worthwhile for dinner.. since that's the price for two. so, when someone asks you if you wanna go to la fiesta.. you say : "call me a sissy and slap my silly, get my ass there as fast as you can!!!" .
(5)F D.
The enchiladas were eatable, but my wife's taco salad wasn't good. Qdoba is better.
(1)Russ H.
Loved this place. Had chicken stuff jalapeños as an appetizer. So good. Perfect spiciness for me. Then I had a chicken and bacon quesadilla which totally rocked. Check this place out.
(5)Joe S.
Dissatisfied. Mexican food for gringos. Total lack of understanding of Mexican cuisine and flavors. The margaritas had booze in them, so at least they had that going for them. Save your money and go somewhere else better, like Chipotle...
(1)Samuel C.
2 stars because the food is edible, and it doesn't taste bad at all. The inside the restaurant looks nice like any normal Mexican restaurant. Now they serving buffet for lunch. I've been always found it to be interesting, but not really Tex-Mex food. The staff are nice and friendly. It seem like the staff are East Indian or Hispanic... The rice and beans are good. I like the tacos. Not worth eating at this place.
(2)Will S.
This is the best little hole in the wall spot. It totally deceives you by presentation but, the food is undeniably good for a $9.99 lunch buffet. Great coworker luncheon spot. I showed up at the top of the hour for the buffet and had to wait 15 minutes and guess what, it was worth it. Can somebody say Chimi-Changa??!!!!!
(5)Karissa G.
There is so much shade thrown in previous reviews. I personally love this place. I consistently do take out and I've brought several friends here. I'm a big advocate of the queso, salsa, and enchilada platters. Also one of the few Mexican places that serves crab. I've always received excellent service, my water is always full, and I visit enough that the servers always carry on conversation. I encourage you to try the place and see for yourself!
(5)Rishima P.
Awful. The food is not fresh not authentic it's crap. The place had gnats and flies. The cheese tasted frozen the sauces were gross. Straight from a can. Avoid this place at all costs. The buffet is terrible too. Chicken was dry the pork fajitas were raw. Ugh. What a waste of money and lunch. One and done. Will never be back here. Sorry.
(1)S B.
I grew up in southern Texas, which is where I developed a love of Mexican Food. Finding decent Mexican food in Maryland is definitely more difficult than down south, but this place more than passes. I had the lunch buffet. Not only was everything I tried (everything except the make your own tacos) solid Mexican food, it was really good.
(4)Jacquelyn J.
La Fiesta has been a big part of my childhood and adult life. Many an afternoon or evening was spent there with my grandparents and was always a favorite choice when asked by them, "What do you want to eat for your birthday?". I've continued going there loyally into my adulthood. So what makes this place so special? Well, first of all, of course there is the food. I am a sucker for their homemade salsa as well as anything that has their ranchero sauce on it. Also, the specialty ram sauce is an amazing treat. I know it's only made for steak dishes primarily... But you can put that sauce on anything in my opinion and it's awesome. However, more than the food, the thing that makes this place so special is the people whom work there. Most places you go to for food, you're just a customer. Sure, the waiters might be nice and do a decent job, but a lot of times, anywhere else, you still ultimately usually get the feeling you are just another body that the waiter/waitress is trying to please to get their big juicy tip. That's not La Fiesta. La Fiesta, you walk in? You're family. They are a place that genuinely care about you and make you feel like you are not just going to a restaurant to eat, but you are going home to family for dinner. It is rare to get that feeling anywhere else. While the food is awesome and I recommend it highly, I ask that that not be the only reason you go. I ask you to go because when you are there, you will be made to feel truly welcome...and that's not something you can get a lot of places anymore. La Fiesta gets (and will always get) 5 stars from me.
(5)EmilyGrace D.
What is with all the 2stars?? I've been coming here since I was born and 19 years later I'm still here. Anyone who insults their food has clearly NEVER had their guacamole. No the staff is not Mexican but that doesn't determine the quality of the food, 9 out of 10 times I come to La Fiesta my server is Ramish and he is always amazing. I don't even need to order because when I walk in he already knows I want my guacamole, spinach enchilada and brownie Sunday. Where I am very stuck in my ways I can only attest for their A+ spinach enchiladas, salmon platter, guacamole, black bean soup and brownie sunday that have not disappointed me once in all of my 19 years. The restaurant decor is slightly outdated but it doesn't matter because they have brought in 2 life sized cut outs of the Dos Equis man and we all know he is the most interesting person in the world. For anyone who says their is never a single Mexican in the place they clearly haven't been because I am ALWAYS there. I celebrate my birthday, graduation, half birthday, and living there! Did someone really complain that the sauce on their burrito was running? You do know what sauce is right? I've been there during lunch hour before and my boyfriend really enjoys eating their buffet along with their chicken burrito. The owner is also very friendly and sits down and talks to his regular customers sometimes. Their is never a wait for a table except on Cinco de Mayo but don't let that scare you off because their food is truly amazing. Anyone looking for guacamole to die for really must stop by this fantastic restaurant but be warned! Their portions are VERY generous..watch your waistline!!
(5)Pauli K.
I've been coming here ever since I was a kid. La Fiesta is easily my favorite Mexican restaurant in the area--their tacos are fantastic (and my husband orders beef soft tacos every time), but the steak enchiladas are my favorite. That dark brown sauce is wonderful, very savory and spicy. The staff is also very courteous and kind! My family and I have been treated very nicely every time we come in. We usually come here for dinner, but the lunch buffet is incredible too!
(5)Phil B.
In my never ending quest to find just one decent mexican restaurant in Columbia, I vsited this dump. It's not good. Decor is dated, old and greasy. Bartender/waiter is of Indian decent, which seemed odd. Food was just awful, and not cheap. Chimichanga, rice and beans had zero flavor. No hot sauce either! But the worst are the chips and salsa. Omg, I have never tasted so much garlic in one dish! Literally took days to get its out of my mouth. Why can't Columbia have just one decent Mexican restaurant?
(1)Chris W.
Not good. Horrible food, horrible service, sketchy clientele and not a single Latino in the place. The pico was made with chick peas, the cheese dip was canned, the refried beans were just pinto beans, and the cholula was merely red hot in cholula bottles (Seriously? We can't even get real cholula?). My burrito was also very small, the salsa was mostly garlic, and the chip basket came to the table only half full. My server was also the bartender, which probably wouldn't have been a big deal if the bar wasn't on the other side of the restaurant. He came to my table twice - order and check. My conclusion: Liquor must be the only thing keeping this place running. Other reviews say this is TexMex, it isn't. It is just bad food parading as something familiar for the excuse to have a bar.
(1)Don R.
Friendly, relaxing, good service, hot food, quiet enough to talk to your date without all the nonsense and noise found at most other places in the area.
(5)Shaun M.
2 stars because the food is edible, and doesn't taste bad. I had 2 steak enchiladas with Señor Ram (eew) sauce w/ rice n beans. The rice & beans were good. The server flustrated himself and couldn't get the orders right. Nothing about the food was "Authentic Mexican" actually the food screamed "Tex-Mex" but I've only had Tex-Mex once while at the River-Walk in San Antonio and that was 5 years ago. I think I'd have better luck going to On The Border. The options here are limited. No Camarones a la Diabla, no Chicken or Steak Milanesa, no Cabbage Salsa. Disappointing.
(2)Donna H.
The waiter forgot our 2 year olds food, brought it when we were almost done and she ate off of us then charged us $6.00 and refused to take it off the bill. When we spoke to the manger he got very upset and said no free food, put his finger in our face and yelled disrespectfully in the restaurant in front of everyone. Our bill was 135.00 which we paid and left no tip. The manager followed us out of the restaurant still yelling at us.
(2)Julia F.
Very disappointing. I was really hoping that this restaurant would be good and that they would be respectful when you let them know you have food allergies. I guess not! Plus the food tastes old and the salsa is sub-par. Not my worst food experience, but certainly not the best.
(1)Guv M.
Great convienent local restaurant. They do have a decent lunch menu, and dinner is always good, but their secret is a a really solid breakfast on the weekends, no one is ever there and the food is very fresh. The french fries are addictive and the portions huge. The story is of a immigrant fron iran who came to this country and fell in love with mexican food, that is why all the servers (the men anyway) are persian, but trust me the food is solid, I would not travel up from DC but if you are in the area very tasty.
(4)Mandy R.
If I could have done 1/2 of a star I would. This place was such a disappointment to my husband and I. I can cook better Mexican food at home than this place. Even the take home kits from the grocery store are better than La Fiesta's Food. I should have known to walk out when I walked in and it was all Indian workers (not to mention the Indian restaurant right next door). First, the chips and salsa were good, but have had way better! The chips were not homemade like a true "Authentic" Mexican restaurant. The salsa was watered down. Second, I ordered the soft Chicken Tacos. They were horrible. The chicken looked like it was cooked days ago and then just put in the microwave to reheat. It was disgusting, I only took one bite. The flour tortillas were out of a bag and they used lettuce, tomatoes and cheddar cheese for the topping. I have never gone to a true Mexican restaurant and received that as a topping. I always get Pico de Gallo on my authentic Mexican tacos as a topping. My husband ordered the Steak Tacos. His were the same as mine. The steak was tough like it had been sitting out then reheated. I got my kids the Chicken Quesadillas, the chicken was the same in there Quesadillas. I would not let them eat it. Lastly there Rice and Beans were a joke. They should have been embarrassed to serve that to a family who are half Mexican half Caucasian. The rice I do not know what they did to that. Definitely not Spanish rice. It was yellow looking with red peppers. The beans looked dumped out of a can, not even cooked. Our bill came to $38 what a joke! I told the guy that the food was horrible, all of us only took a bite and he still charged us full price. I told him they need to take "Authentic Mexican" off their sign because this place is far from authentic. I should have just driven to El Salto in Brooklyn. They have true authentic Mexican food.
(1)L. Michelle H.
La Fiesta serves a very old fashioned idea of Mexican food for Americans. The food and décor are a throwback to Chi Chi's and El Toritos of 30 years ago. The fresh, vibrant Mexican cuisine that is so popular now and so much better and readily available is not at all present in what is served at La Fiesta. Platters come covered in cheese and canned enchilada sauce with a side of dry rice and a cup of beans. Edible, but not especially enjoyable. Still, I wouldn't call the food bad, I just wouldn't call it Mexican. The service is quite good. The bar area looked comfortable and there was a nice television with soccer on. I plan to return for drinks and appetizers. Maybe for dessert - we didn't have any this time but the selection looked appealing. I just won't have dinner there again.
(2)Danny C.
I don't care about the decor of this place. I just wanna eat! I don't understand why people have such expectations to see ONLY Hispanics working at Tex-Mex places and if they don't see that, they think it's odd. So what? Misconceptions of society. After doing a back and triceps work out, I decided to come here for buffet. I came right when it opened and they said in about 5 minutes, I can eat. Cool, so I ordered an unsweetened iced tea and they gave me some chips and salsa. The chips were warm and the salsa had a kick to it. In fact the salsa was pretty tasty. I used that salsa as a dip for some of my buffet items because it was so good. I waited a few minutes when my waiter informed me that I could go ahead and devour their mid-sized buffet. I should have taken pictures of the buffet but I was so hungry that I forgot... There are 3 cold appetizers and 3 hot appetizers including a make-your-own taco with all the usual toppings you can think of then there are about 5-7 trays of food and each tray consists of 2 kinds. There are also 2 big open plates of quesadillas and grilled chicken with veggies. There were foods like stuffed peppers which had strong hints of alcohol in em, 4 different kinds of mini-burritos which kinda tasted the same lol but still good and the usual rice and beans dishes. They also had a Chicken Curry but it's nothing like the Curry we all know. Since I came right when it opened, the food was fresh(er) and I enjoyed almost all of it. The only things I didn't enjoy much were their desserts. Crispy bread with honey drizzled on it which didn't taste like anything but honey and a pastry filled with fruit and drizzled with chocolate. Tasted like they made that dessert a while ago. Now before you decide to come here for the food, know that I was starving when I came. When people are starving, anything is delicious. So if you come and the food wasn't all that then don't blame me! haha Service was good because I was the only 1 there. The food was good and as I was about to leave, people started coming in. Even if La Fiesta has some low reviews, it's not stopping others from going. I'm definitely coming back for their buffet again soon!
(4)Alison P.
We got enchiladas. The sauce was runny and the chicken was bland. While eating we were also afraid the table was going to collapse from the wall it was jerryrigged to at any moment. I guess we know know why they kept their lights so low.
(1)Alyce M.
OK. Any place that has sangria automatically gets 2 stars from me. That being said, this place was really good. The wait staff is friendly, the food is good, and there's decent ambiance (they actually have a really nice aquarium!). The spinach enchiladas were really, really good. Their veggie quesadilla was also really good. I wasn't a huge fan of their salsa but the chips were so much better than the last few Mexican places I've been lately. And, of course, most importantly ... the sangria is wonderfully strong and delicious. It's definitely not worth being the main destination from DC but is definitely worth being the go-to restaurant if I'm in Columbia/Jessup/Laurel area.
(4)Francis U.
Not really Mexican food. The staff (owners? employees?) are from India. The cheese tastes like Velveeta. The margarita tastes like lime kool-aid.
(2)Melissa S.
I was actually trying to find the Jimmy John's off of Centre Park Dr. Saw La Fiesta there as I pulled in and thought Mexican sounded better for lunch. There was only one couple there but it was still early, 11:30 or so. It looked clean and decorated in the typical Mexican decor. I looked over the buffet which looked good but decided to get something to-go. The waiter was very nice and offered me something to drink and chips and salsa while I waited for my Chicken Burrito to-go. I opened the box when it came and it looked and smelled yummy. They gave me rice and beans on the side as well and the rest of the chips and salsa I was snacking on. I couldn't get back to my office soon enough to try it! Then it went downhill from there....the rice...okay, the beans...a little better than okay, the burrito...SOOOO disappointing!! It was just meat inside...bland, unseasoned chicken meat. No peppers, no onions, no sour cream, no cheese, NOTHING...JUST Chicken MEAT. The best part was the tortilla with the sauce and cheese on top used to wrap the meat. Definitely not worth the $10 I paid...WILL NOT BE BACK. There seriously can't be any self-respecting Mexican cooking in that kitchen.
(2)Karin T.
First, let me say this. I have never reviewed any business on yelp and because of this experience I decided now is the time! Woke up with a craving for Mexican food. Googled around and found this place for a lunch buffet. Close to my home and can't go wrong on buffet! NO, never again, NO, NO, NO!! Pulled into parking lot and noticed restaurant of different cuisine next door offering a lunch buffet....hum competition?... but let me stick with the plan and try this place. We, tween daughter and I, walk in and greeted immediately by nice friendly waitress, possible owner. Will say she was friendly, recommended the buffet while seating us and wondered off for a bit. Note: we were the only customers in the restaurant. We looked at the menu and came up with a game plan. While making this game plan, a "chef" started putting out dished on the buffet table. It took me about 3.5 seconds to realize that nobody has been in this restaurant all day (12:00pm) and now they have decided to stock the buffet for us......felt sad when I realized that...freaking sad....But hey, I haven't tried their food so let me not judge. Waitress pops up to deliver salsa and chips and our order, we go with recommendation of buffet for 2, order of chile con queso and basic drinks. I start attacking the salsa and......man that salsa is on point! As I'm eating the salsa like a pig, I'm watching the "chef" put more food on the buffet. Abut 15 minutes go by from entrance, salsa is dried up from me.. not my starving child and ample enough time for them to prepare for the buffet.....First walk through was so unimpressed! All the fixings for an excellent taco except taco meat...gasp... NO taco meat. WTF!!! OK, so I'm not getting my taco fill in today, let me think outside the box. A label of fajita chicken is next, my daughter gambles and gets that...Next, Beef??? or Chicken?? I Go with beef?? Next tray is...Rice and Curry...Well hell yes, not expecting curry but I always say YES to curry! Ok didn't do it first go around....read on... Next chafing dish is rice, black beans, and I guess? pinto beans? I'm guessing again....anyway it was a darker colored rice from the curry rice and 2 offerings of beans..looked nasty and skipped that chafing dish of puke. next was a open platter of chicken quesadilla and soft taco shells. Daughter and I both get quesadilla Next is a very sad cold food area... Ranch dressing!! freaking Ranch, Not sour cream, RANCH! a small hot chafing dish with what is actually in this mystery chicken meat......Pre-cut Tyson chicken.the kind of stuff you buy at the supermarket!! and I want to say onion rings and French fries were offered in that sheet pan! So that is first look at buffet...nothing but disappointment and lackluster food. Now first bite is another feeling.....Diarrhea!! Yes, Diarrhea is now a feeling I have. Loose bowels, poisoning yourself knowingly, thoughts of how far can I go from home until I know I'm screwed? All crossed my mind. Daughter decided n first meal, the fajitas... Looked like trouble to me so I said No! No! while she piled it on her plate, don't judge, LIKE I SAID, salsa was great, what does she know!! "MOM! it is cold" I touch the meat on her plate and sure enough...not even close to warm! Out the freezer cold! Hasn't seen a oven cold in at least 3 days cold!! I take a bite in my beef chmi spelling wrong so what should it be calledi? and that bitch is not only nasty but cold too!!! Frozen Cold in the center!! I break it apart, push to center of table and go for soft Tyson chicken taco....cold, no flavor and just plain nasty. It is at this pint the queso is delivered and I realize that I have been had! Queso is fresh out of a can and not even the good stuff you find at the movie theatre when you want to pig out. Nasty Salty half warm, microwave on 50% for a minute and pray these American idiots eat it and stay quiet about our crappy food type of queso! I didn't know you could get worse than movie nacho cheese but this place did!!! Now on to second plates for both of us...she filled her plate up with mostly edible quesadillas and a small portion of curry....I went back for my least favs.... Mexican rice and beans and we both tried the curry with rice. Lets just say the second place was the cherry on top in food poisoning standards!! I took one bite of the curry (note I just put curry sauce on rice and not the ...vegetable or .gasp...chicken) I was scared and now know for a good reason,,,bubble guts!!! My child did full curry on rice and 2 seconds asked to be excused to the bathroom. When she cam back her exact words were 'mom "we need to go home! this hurt my stomach! All in all, I paid $30 plus my crappy tip of $3 for salsa, 2 chips dipped in nasty cheese sauce, #bubbleguts #scaredpoop#
(1)Kendal M.
La Fiesta is actually pretty good! Large portions, good margaritas and good service. We go here when we just want some quick Mexican food and a good drink. Never disappointed!!
(4)Joe C.
Margarita was poured out of a liquor store pre-mixed container. Salsa was completely salty. The chicken in the enchilada was a bit chunky but not too bad. The service was terrible even though the place was empty. The staff was not sure what to do and there was a definitive communication barrier between us and them. It's a shame because with the amount of traffic in area, that place could be packed. Probably will not return.
(2)Tim F.
Service was slow. Food was edible. Jalapeno poppers were excellent. Crab quesadilla was very good. Steak fajitas were of poor quality beef that was thinly sliced to make it chewable, mostly onions, and bland. Chicken fajitas were about the same. Fiesta burrito was half eaten by a hungry teenager. "Not good" was his comment. Tilapia tacos were very good but entirely too expensive. Add $3.50 PER TACO for fish instead of beef. 3 taco platter costs $22.00. We had 1 beer, 3 margaritas (2 virgin), 1 soda, and the food above. Bill was $111.00, which was about $61 more than it was worth. Won't be returning and don't recommend it.
(2)DA K.
Ladies and Gentlemen, This place here is sad, I should have known something when the parking lot was empty and only one couple in the restaurant. We only stayed 3 mins, If I can give this place no stars I would. YELP need to add that option cause some of the places dont deserve shit. The place look dirty and sad. The table we sat at for 20 seconds was greasy, The menus was greasy. I looked at my baby. I said lets go. The place aint that busy they need to clean or something. That place needs chef ramsey. I know that place aint clean. I wish YELP had a health Inspector section cause I would definetly send them to this place. Please avoid if you value your time and money. You be warned! STAY TUNED
(1)Sandra B.
The guacamole dip is AMAZING! It's so creamy delicious that I swear there must be butter or something in the mix. I ordered the spinach enchiladas also very good. The bartender was friendly, food portions were enormous, and prices are fair for the area. Chips are thick and served warm. My only complaint is that the salsa tasted more like Siracha sauce than salsa (not bad, but not great). Margaritas were ok too, but I'll try the Sangria next time. Will definitely recommend to others and go back again.
(4)John L.
Warning! My manager and I went for lunch today. We were both so sick this evening that I had to write a review to warn people about this place. I had the chicken chimichanga which actually resembled turkey slices, dry and old. I cannot believe they would serve it. My manager got a chicken quesadilla which unfortunately for him, he ate the entire thing. He wrote me and said his stomach felt like a biochem explosion. I just felt Nassau all night. Beware of this place.....
(1)David M.
Don't go here. This isn't good Mexican. If you think it is, you need a reality check. I don't even think the people running the place are Mexican? Not to mention, the prices don't match the food. It's not the worst out there, but it's definitely not that good.
(1)Chau M.
This was the only restaurant open July 4th- beggars cant be choosers. Its not authentic spanish food. Chicken was dry, salsa came out of a can, & $17 a dish!!! Margaritas were good though.
(1)Brook H.
The atmosphere is just so-so or leaves a little to be desired, but the food is pretty tasty and for an acceptable price!
(3)Tracy L.
I have been going here since high school when our Spanish class would march us across the street to try some "authentic" Mexican food (I think the people who run it are actually of eastern European decent?). I think I like their chips and salsa best out of all the Mexican restaurants in the area, the chips are kind of thinner and crispier and the salsa builds up a nice heat. Lately I've just been getting the bean and cheese burrito, eating half of it and taking the other half home. By the next day the garlic has thoroughly seeped through the entire thing and it is delicious cold. I used to get a lot of the crab based burritos, which were really good but the garlic wine cream sauce is kind of rich and probably super high in calories (which I don't need after eating 2 baskets of the fried chips). The rice that comes on the side isn't very good, but I never think it is except the super expensive restaurants. Unfortunately this place is a little pricy, especially their drinks, I guess I am just too used to a $4 pablorita.
(3)Hoyt H.
Let me say right off that these three stars are based on this place as a restaurant, but not as a MEXICAN restaurant. I've been coming here off and on since 2002, and I've always found it to be interesting but not really Tex-Mex food. Maybe because everyone in the kitchen is East Indian instead of Hispanic? I do like much of the food. The seafood enchiladas are good, with a white wine cream sauce, and I like their chimis. Today, I had a crab quesadilla, which was decent, although I would have preferred it without the fries, and perhaps served with some type of pico de gallo or fruit-based salsa. The SO had a spinach and chicken burrito that she quite enjoyed. But as I said, it's just not quite.. Mexican ;) The salsa with the chips tastes more like chili sauce you might get with asian food. It's still good though. I keep going back once in a while, just not when I want authentic Mexican food. Still haven't really found a great place for that in MD, although Tampico in Laurel comes the closest so far. Service is fine, and this is a nice quiet restaurant for a chat. I haven't tried out the bar.
(3)Patrick S.
I don't understand all 4 and 5 star reviews for this restaurant. I work nearby and have been here for lunch and dinner a few times. Each time I realize what a bad idea it was! The ingredients used are low quality. I agree with another reviewer who likened their food with the taco kits you can get at the grocery store. I eat Mexican regularly (I'm from Southern California and have been to Mexico many times) and usually don't have problems, but I've had indigestion more than once after eating here. The ambiance is very tacky, which wouldn't bother me if the food was decent. I don't remember having any problems with the service. I do realize there are not a lot of Mexican choices in Columbia, but you could do better than this place. Check out Lily's Mexican Market for some great take out!
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