Tonala Mexican Restaurant — Restaurant in Tacoma

My boyfriend would always tell me that he thinks this is the restaurant that introduced him to Mexican food for the first time and where he fell in love with Mexican food. We were in the area and were feeling hungry so we decided to stop by. The parking was pretty packed but had a spot or two so we were able to secure a spot. Once we entered, there was a sign that you could clearly see that said wait to be seated and it wasn't long until someone came by. We were greeted by a female hostess who smiled and professionally lead us to a booth to sit at for dinner. The menu was pretty extensive but not overwhelming as they had their alcohol drinks separate from their menu. A male server stopped by with some chips and salsa which I think is now fighting for best house made salsa that I've had in Washington. We ordered the combination dinner, I got mine with the tamale and tostada with chicken while my boyfriend got the chimichanga. We got another refill of chips which were not too salty and the perfect size to get a good chunk of salsa. We eventually had two waiters who was a young gentleman and an older gentleman but they were both so courteous and friendly.

This was also probably the fastest we've gotten our food at a Mexican restaurant as it arrived maybe 8-10 minutes after we placed our order. The plates arrived nice and hot with the food portions being huge and the presentation was lovely! I wasn't a huge fan of the chicken as it felt more on the dry side for me but I also just don't like white meat and my boyfriend said it wasn't dry at all. I did love the amount of toppings on the tostada as it was stacked high with fresh ingredients on a bed of refried beans which was seasoned perfectly. The tamale was also absolutely delicious and I have had many tamales and I can say this tamale is immaculate. My boyfriend's chimichanga was delicious too from the bite I had and how he cleaned his plate. I can vouch that this place is authentic (dated a Mexican guy and their family spoiled me with amazing food and parties) and my boyfriend agrees that this spot is the perfect place for amazing Mexican food for those who are wanting to try or are hesitant. The staff here are super friendly and professional, they will even pack up your food! It just felt like going to a friend's to enjoy amazing vibes, fantastic food, and a overall good time. Definitely want to come back to try more...

First off, no idea what the person who gave 1 star is talking about, perhaps they went to a different restaurant. The staff seem to have no issue understanding what I was saying and I had no issue understanding them. This restaurant is by far the cleanest and one of the best Mexican restaurants I have been to in the state - not counting taco trucks for comparison, only a few truly good Mexican restaurants are around.

Went here tonight for the first time with my husband and our 13 mo old son. The hostess was very polite and friendly and we were seated promptly. The waitstaff was borderline amazing compared to what service we have received at other restaurants, not just those in WA. Both my husband and I ordered our food and had a slight adjustment request (enchilada sauce on the side for me and beans on the side for him) and there was no issue.

The waiter, without asking, brought the beans out first knowing we were going to let our son have some so he wouldn't have to wait, made sure to bring it on a plate that wasn't hot just in case he touched it; and, throughout the meal we were checked in on frequently enough to say if we needed anything but not so frequently as to disturb our meal. The price is comparable to other Mexican restaurants and the portions are good as well. The food, to me, tasted great. Probably one of the best flavored Mexican meals I have had (not counting trucks) since being back in WA.

We are definitely going to be returning to try this place again. Great food, staff, atmosphere, prices and family friendly. Would 100% recommend...

BEST Mexican restaurant, service, quality, servers, and price. Very clean. My daughter and I visited after we read the reviews, 1st visit was 2 months ago. We are from Seattle. The combination plates are huge. Now we drive out here just to eat,well worth the drive. Servers very nice and prompt. The owner Miguel was very nice and asked how everything was. I told him the food and servers are amazing, and we drove from Seattle just for the food. Our new favorite restaurant!

Now let me explain how helpful Miguel is. When we arrived back to my car, I had a flat tire. So amazed a man Adam and his son Jacob offered to change my tire as they were walking across the lot. I had a tow truck in route. I asked him how much? He replied no money needed, just showing his son (15) how to treat someone in need. When I took out my spare, no jack handle, no lug nut tool. I decided to go back and ask Miguel if he might have the items. He was very helpful went to his car and walked across the lot to my car. His jack was too high. He walked back asked his employees and brought another one which worked. Miguel was on his hands and knees on the asphalt in his uniform! After about 40 minutes. I was on my spare going back to Seattle! For Miguel/ owner to spend this much time with us was so amazing. I loved this place and had already returned times. I offered him compensation for his time but he also refused. He is a kind man and sincere. These 3 men really gave me hope in mankind at a time where it is so difficult. I will spread the word, and I am a loyal...