“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.” 

— Virginia Woolf, A Room of One’s Own.

Vallarta’s is a family-owned, hidden gem of a restaurant that I have learned about in recent months and have grown to love ever since. This restaurant is locally owned and operated by the original founder, Jose Jimenez Macias, his wife, and his two cousins (About Us). The atmosphere of this restaurant is lively, colorful, and genuinely makes you feel like you stepped foot into a close-knit family’s kitchen for some deliciously-cooked, authentic Mexican food. 

In my opinion, this restaurant consists of the most incredible Mexican food I have experienced since my travels down South by a landslide. Vallarta’s differentiates from their competitors by offering a real Mexican atmosphere, intricate decorations, and rapid service. The colors on the walls and chairs consist of vibrant reds, blues, oranges, and greens. The layout and design of the restaurant is very attractive to what meets the eye. I have been to Vallarta’s on several occasions, but I have only been to their original establishment, located at 9255 North 56^thStreet Temple Terrace, Florida, 33617. This location was built back in June of 1992, but it was such a success that they have opened several more in different cities of Florida (About Us). This is a must-stop restaurant if you are currently living here, or if you are traveling with someone that has a strong appreciation for Mexican food and culture.

I must say, one downside of the restaurant is the location due to its difficulty to find, and unaware, potential customers overlooking it. The Vallarta’s in Temple Terrance is located in a strip mall, alongside a few other restaurants and quick-stop shops. It is a location that may be ignored if you are not specifically on a scavenger hunt for it. Although, once you know of its existence and step inside, you are instantly appreciative of your decision to sit down. It does not look like anything special from the outside, but the inside is magical and the parking is easy.

Vallarta’s has a beautiful fenced in patio with limited seating. From my times spent there, I have noticed that their establishment is almost never busy, which may turn a skeptical customer away. However, once you’ve eaten there, it will keep you coming back. The staff has always been extremely friendly and on top of orders. The food comes out as fast as you finish your first drink, and the daily specials consist of a great value for what you are getting. Every day, from 2-7pm, Vallarta’s has “buy one, get one margaritas” of a decent size for only seven dollars. As if that deal is not a good enough, on Mondays and Tuesdays, they offer one-dollar tacos all day long. If you utilize these deals, you end up getting great food and quality drinks on an incredibly low tab. Not to mention, their website has print off deals and coupons to save your money. As a college student, that is another reason to keep my loyal to their Mexican food.

However, without the deals, Vallarta’s can be slightly pricey. Altogether, the restaurant is only expensive if you make it that way though. Vallarta’s has a whole menu selection dedicated to “10.95 Combos” for lunch, which includes rice and beans or Chile relleno. The food is absolutely worth the money spent, in my opinion. I have tried many different items on the menu, but the “quesadilla especial” is my favorite by far. Ultimately, I recommend Vallarta’s in the highest regard if you have never been before. Below, I have attached the website for further exploration.

Website:

https://www.vallartasmexican.com

Works Cited:

https://www.vallartasmexican.com/about-us