El Taxqueno — Restaurant in Chattanooga

El Taxqueno is a hidden gem nestled on Cummings Highway in Chattanooga, Tennessee. If you're on the hunt for authentic Mexican food that will transport your taste buds straight to Mexico, then this is the place to be. From the moment you step foot inside, you are greeted with warm smiles and a vibrant atmosphere that sets the tone for an unforgettable dining experience.

The first thing that caught my attention was the menu. It's clear that El Taxqueno takes pride in serving traditional Mexican dishes made with love and care. The menu offers a wide range of options, from classic favorites like tacos and enchiladas to more unique dishes that showcase the diversity of Mexican cuisine. Whether you're a meat lover or a vegetarian, there is something here to satisfy every palate.

I started my meal with their famous queso and chips. The queso was creamy and flavorful, with just the right amount of spice. The chips were fresh and crispy, making for the perfect combination. It was evident from the first bite that the ingredients used were of top-notch quality.

Next up was the main course, and I opted for their signature dish: Arroz on Pollo. The chicken was tender and juicy, bursting with rich flavors that made my taste buds dance with joy. I got a couple street tacos to go with it and they were perfectly authentic with the double corn shells, meat, topped with onions and cilantro. Each bite was a delightful explosion of flavors that transported me straight to the streets of Mexico.

What truly sets El Taxqueno apart from other Mexican restaurants in town is their commitment to authenticity. They source their ingredients locally whenever possible, ensuring that each dish is made with fresh and high-quality produce. This dedication to quality shines through in every bite, making it clear why this restaurant has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Aside from the incredible food, the service at El Taxqueno is exceptional. The staff is attentive, knowledgeable, and always willing to go the extra mile to ensure a memorable dining experience. They are more than happy to explain the menu and offer recommendations based on your preferences.

The ambiance of the restaurant is another highlight. The colorful decor, traditional music playing in the background, and the delightful aroma of Mexican spices create an inviting and lively atmosphere. It's the perfect place to gather with friends and family, or even for a date night.

In conclusion, El Taxqueno is a must-visit restaurant for anyone craving authentic Mexican cuisine in Chattanooga. From the moment you walk through the door, you are greeted with warm hospitality, incredible food, and an ambiance that transports you straight to Mexico. With a menu filled with mouthwatering dishes made from fresh, quality ingredients, this hidden gem is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. Don't miss out on this culinary journey - make your plans to stop at El...

This was a very very very disappointing experience.

Food was not good at all. Server, while nice, was clueless and had to ask the owner (leaving our table to go 4 feet) every question we asked.

The meat was overcooked and not seasoned well at all (bland as bland can be). The steak was burnt and tough, and had zero salt or any other seasoning. The salsa had no character or flavor to it.

The juice, at around $9 after tax for barely 6 ounces was a ripoff. It tasted very cleric / bitter as if the rinds or pith were left on, or had celery put in it which was not in the recipe I ordered, plus the juice was served at room temp and had so much pulp it clogged my straw from trying to drink it.

The other grind to my gear is bottle beverage service. First I believe it was $2 a bottle...EVEN FOR WATER! To me, it's only acceptable as a to go option. What is the point of having a server then??

For this place to open up down the road from an already successful Latin restaurant, it's doing a poor job trying to compete.

Think about this owners...why would I choose here when I can get beverage service and better food down the road...

I was not expecting to find fabulous Mexican food in the mountains of Tennessee. But I did. Taxqueno Mexican restaurant in Lookout Valley is not fancy to look at, but the food — and fresh juices — are well worth a visit. The salsa was served cold, and it was fresh and zingy. Nothing at all bitter or bland. The ground beef burrito was simple: just flavorful beef and white cheese sauce poured over the flour shell. The absence of tomato and lettuce was not an issue. The beef was perfectly tasty without it. I also liked that it was not served with beans and rice. The chips and salsa, burrito and my fresh juice were filling enough. As for the juice, I got the spicy pineapple juice. It contained pineapple, carrot, orange and ginger. It was blended fresh for me, not frozen. The menu has a wide selection of fresh juices and smoothies. My server was very friendly, and she helped me with my Spanish when I told her I wanted to practice. The tables and interior were nothing fancy. The bathroom was small but clean. There was ample parking. I will definitely return to this place when I am in town. It...