La Veracruzana — Restaurant in Northampton

Was good before the pandemic. Now they change prices when they feel the need to without the menu reflecting the price. It's self service so I'm not sure why they ask for a tip, it's awkward when the kid at the register asks you if you want to leave one when he literally does nothing but put your order in, something doordash does automagically. Then he'll sit with his girlfriend in the back booth and complain and judge every customer that walks through the door and get in a huff when he has to do his job.

It was $30+ for chips, guac, a burrito and enchiladas. Besides the salsa (which is free, that's nice) for the price point you are better off just going to a chain like Chipotle for better tasting food and just a better experience. Again, why are you asking if I want to tip when it is self bussing and self serve.

Food was the definition of "meh"

Salsa is on point, literally the only reason to go here.

TL;DR there are better places for...

I am just not sure how this is getting such high praise unless it's for the lovely salsa bar or maybe the drinks are just really killer (admitting we did not try tacos or alcohol). What we did have were bland carne burrito, and some "meh" chicken enchiladas. Everything was just relatively okay, with mushy rice. The stand out items were really good guacamole and very tasty refried beans, but I was expecting to like more than the guac and beans. I hadn't been here in over a decade but I couldn't remember why....it's coming back to me now. Nothing is terrible, it's just all so...bland. you really need those salsa bar salsas. The atmosphere is nice, staff were fine, but it's an order at the counter, seat yourself type place with no real flow, so Everytime you get up (salsa bar, bathroom, napkins, etc.) you have to cut across the line of people who are trying to order at the counter. The design isn't great. I want to like it...

Short walk from any of the public lots or side street parking. Walked in and wasn't aware it was a counter service type ordering process which wasn't a problem. The woman at the counter was very helpful and welcoming. Placed our order after some guidance and recommendations including a couple of margaritas. The menu can be somewhat overwhelming your first time. After ordering you're given a number to post at your table. They will then bring it to you once it's done. Service was quicker than expected considering it was the Saturday night rush. Be sure to grab some salsa from the salsa bar before sitting. We sat outside on a beautiful evening and all four of us really enjoyed the atmosphere and food. Plentiful portions and nothing was over salted which tends to be a challenge with other Mexican restaurants. The margaritas were VERY generously poured... Lol. Nice place and we...