I want to start off by saying I love Chipotle. Sometimes, though, I get tired of the routine: waiting in line for 30 minutes, eating the exact same combination of ingredients, spilling water all over myself, etc. When I’m feeling the need to spice things up a bit, I feel lucky that Gainesville has plenty of other Mexican dining options, each as delicious as the last. The restaurants I’ve shared are not listed in any particular order and you can also click on the restaurant name to view their website.
1. La Tienda, 2204 SW 13th St.
Located south of campus on Thirteenth Street, La Tienda will transport you to Mexico with its authenticity. Using the most basic of ingredients, La Tienda creates perfect flavors. The time from when you order your food until it hits your table might be a little while, but that’s only because they are making your order from scratch. La Tienda is one of the few places in Gainesville to serve authentic Mexican food. I’m a fan of their burritos, but feel free to explore some other great dishes, like their quesadillas! La Tienda also has amazing sides like pico de gallo or arroz Mexicano (Mexican rice).
2. Boca Fiesta, 232 SE 1st St.
Located downtown, Boca Fiesta will bring you delicious food in a cool atmosphere. You can sit outside and watch the Gainesville nightlife unfold while sipping on delicious margaritas or eat indoors with a hipster vibe and delicious food. If you’re brave enough, try some dishes featuring locally caught gators! If the idea of eating our mascot makes you queasy, try their tuna tacos — they won’t disappoint!
3. El Indio, 407 NW 13th St.
Maybe you’ve passed this place without ever giving it a second thought. Or worse, that thought was “Who would ever eat here?” Don’t judge a book by its cover, and try El Indio — you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Go there for really great and affordable tacos. Next time you’re craving that late night Taco Bell, think about stopping by El Indio instead for some authentic cuisine.
4. Tijuana Flats, 1720 W. University Ave. & 3414 SW Archer Rd.
Strategically located across campus, sometimes I just can’t fight off the allure of TJ’s deliciously seasoned chips, flavorful hot sauce bar and awesome decor. It can get pretty crowded like Chipotle, especially on Taco Tuesday and Burrito Thursday. The food is delicious, and if you time it just right, you can eat without waiting in line. There are two locations in Gainesville, one on Archer Road and one on University Avenue. Leave room for dessert because their cookie dough flautas are to die for.
5. Chuy’s, 3410 SW Archer Rd.
Chuy’s will always hold a special place in my heart. There’s nothing not to love about this place. The service is excellent, the food is even better and the atmosphere is fun. They serve you light and crunchy chips with fresh salsa, the food is reasonably priced, and you’ll never walk away with an empty stomach. Consume the food that is fit for an Aztec god at Chuy’s with your friends or on a date. Either way it’ll be a great experience.
Picture a Thursday evening when you and your friends are bored and hungry (a dangerous combination). Someone has the brilliant idea to go eat tex mex. Before someone can even say “Chipotle,” remember there are other options! You’ll be thanked for saving your friends from waiting in that agonizing line leading out the door.
Photo Credits:
www.senorgrandes.com
www.taquerialabonita.com