We came here the first night the new location had opened. We were the only ones in the restaurant, and the owner made for a very memorable experience! He walked us through the entire menu and gave recommendations. He also gave us free drinks and apps! The handmade burrito shell was INCREDIBLE, literally game changing. Vibe is very unique inside, and I'm sure it's only gotten better since it opened. read more

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I would give la bamba a solid 4.5/5. The restaurant itself is pretty small, so it may be worthwhile to call ahead to check for availability if you're considering dining in. Also, we were told that there is a 1 entree and 1 drink minimum per customer, so keep that in mind! Also, they only take cash! I really enjoyed the food -- I got the steak fajita and cheese burrito. The meat was actually so delicious and flavorful, that was the highlight of the meal. As for my drink, I got a mango guava drink, which I added cuervo to since it was complementary, and it was very tasty. I liked that the owner asked if I wanted an even ratio of the fruits or more of one; it's cool that the drinks are very customizable. We also got complementary chips and salad which were made well. Overall, I really liked the food and drinks. I liked the vibe of the interior, with lots of eclectic decorations, it felt comfortable! read more

la bamba - Mexican Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Very enjoyable visit. The dishes tasted fresh, and presentation was beautiful. Service was prompt and professional. Just a small delay with drinks, otherwise an excellent dining experience worth recommending. read more

So amazing!! I think most people do takeout because it's really small but we sat outside by a wood fire and listened to the (fairly loud) music as the chef worked and had a great time. We tried the house mango juice and house sangria which both came out in way bigger cups that we expected! Free chips and salsa were so good and perfectly spicy, definitely home made. There's only one guy working from what I can tell so it took a while for the four of us to be served but it was sooo worth it. Two of us the steak burrito and two others got the pulled chicken and it was divine. They were huge first of all just look at this thing. The tortillas are house made, the chicken is SO FLAVORFUL and it had the perfect ratio of veggies to meat to cheese. Go here!! Cash only read more

la bamba - 2 Piece Pulled Chicken Burrito - Mexican Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

La Bamba is a family-owned business that during limited hours during the day. They only accept cash, so make sure that you have it handy. I learned about this place on TikTok, where the creator said that they create their own tortillas and their burritos were very large servings. When I entered the small restaurant, I saw the owners making the tortillas in-house, and it instantly turned up my senses. I ordered the chicken and cheese burrito and a brisket burrito and was amazed by the softness of the tortilla and the flavor of the filling. My favorite was the chicken burrito, as it had a lot of flavor with avocado, rice, and cheese. Both of the burritos are also very large, and the meat is well seasoned and tenderized to perfection. With just two individuals operating the restaurant, I was delighted by the warm ambiance and greeting and the pride that they have in their establishment. Thus far, this is the best burrito I've had in Philly by a mile, and I hope you give it a try. read more

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I was with a friend and he was berated by an employee or the owner of this place simply because he asked for their hours. It was ridiculous and seemed racially motivated. I'm not sure if the person was drunk or always a disgusting human, but it was unexpected and unacceptable. This place was dark and empty and should be shut down. I would NEVER recommend that anyone eat here. read more

The food and service was great! I order a Chicken Nachos and was delicious. I will recommended. read more

la bamba - Chicken Nachos. - Mexican Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

I cannot say enough about this little slice of heaven!!! We have been coming here during COVID for our mexican fix and JUST WOW! This place never disappoints. First off, Michael the chef/genius behind this operation is so funky. He always has the door open, music blasting, lights blinking and knows your order as soon as you walk up. meanwhile he has handmade tortillas, chips, and all the meats cooking.. this guy is great! Last night I ordered the special brisket burrito and of course it was out.of.this.world. Also ordered the chips and salsa/queso... always hits the spot but these were the freshest chips I have tasted. All hail Michael and his burrito madness! read more

la bamba - Chips and salsa and queso - Mexican Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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I've never gone OMG I have to a burrito since I overdid myself in the beginning of Chipotle, Moe's, and Qdoba days. And I had a pretty sweet one in Puerto Escondido in MlOaxaca that I didn't think could be topped. But when someone on my neighbor app said these are the beat burritos she's ever had and she's from California, I thought well ok. I guess I need to try this. And I do love a good Pastor. And yes!!! I never thought everything would be so good individually and folded all up together! Here I am waiting again for more. I absolutely love the Pastor with plantain and beans and deliciousness. Every part of it blended well. I'm already here again adding chips, churros, and juice together read more

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Doesn't look like much from the outside but very cool place and concept. Food is great, fresh as you can see them making it from the outside. We tried: the chicken, the steak and the brisket burritos. We also had guac and a few drinks (lime coconut is worth a try if you like sour) all 3 were very very filling (large portions) All 3 were fresh. Believe it or not, i was mostly impressed by the freshness of the tortillas Def will try this again as i wanted to try the fish too. read more

This place is THE bomb-a. And such value. For $24, we got the Mexican dinner and a chicken burrito (not pictured but equally delicious). First of all, it was A BUCKET OF FOOD. Secondly, it took two people 10 minutes to inhale it all and proceed into a food coma. A true testimony of how yum it was. And lastly, I was so impressed by the freshness of the salads. Like, where can I find this fresh lettuce? Not Whole Foods I tell you what. Anyways, if you're walking by this place and thinking about if you should order -- just do it. They're so good at their job and the food is fresh, tasty, and authentic. read more

la bamba - Mexican dinner - Mexican Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

updated 8/17/2021: our order of ahi tacos (only 2 in the order, not mentioned on the menu) & sirloin hash burrito came out a total of $32. That's roughly $11 per taco if the burrito was about $10. Disappointed that sirloin hash was actually just ground beef. The last time we went to La Bamba a few months ago, menu had prices listed and they were way below what we were charged last night. I can no longer recommend an establishment where there's no transparency between owner and customer; no quality of food is worth unpleasant surprises. read more

la bamba - hand for size. shrimp & octopus fajita bucket - Mexican Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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As they say, stop and take a look around you might miss something exquisite . I have no words to describe the flavors. I was looking for something off the wall for dinner and i found it. I went so far as to wait an extra hour (google had the hours wrong and so did yelp these days it's all a mess) and boy am i glad i walked nicely through queen village and waited. The décor outside looks like someone's front porch so you might miss it. But the smells coming from that kitchen, WOW. Again you have to be a little off the beaten trail here for an authentic meal so ask what the specials are. They may run out of one protein and sub another. I got the beef enchiladas, and the mole it was covered in had a depth of flavor like smoky and chocolatey. someone in that kitchen uses old school recipes and it shows. The gentleman who helped me where very 'south philly' but kind enough to allow me to hang out front while I waited. I'm glad I walked up to order I noticed the phone orders started and didn't stop! *PEOPLE* good food takes time! I think I got more than enough for 2 people to enjoy for a nice Mexican dinner. Thank you again to the nice gentleman outside(....Go Birds!) **pro tip: it's cash only** Bring a bag because you might leave with a platter in a huge pan....it's worth it 'cuz it was hot and I had to walk 4 blocks to my car lol read more

Stopped by this local place for some dinner. Immediately greeted by the owner who walked us through the specials and gave us a menu for take out. Ordered two burritos and nachos. This would have been enough food for five people. The nachos were delicious and the burritos came with fresh tortillas. Cash only spot but worth it! Had some fresh fruit drink options but we didn't get one due to fruit allergies read more

An awesome place! Guava and Berry drink with Tequila was delicious! The brisket burrito was awesome and the potato salad was probably the best I've ever had. The hours make this place harder to catch but definitely worth the challenge! read more

la bamba - Drinks - Mexican Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Their food is good and has great portion sizes, but make sure you confirm the price before ordering. We've experienced the same as other reviewers where the owner attempted to charge us 150% of the menu's price assuming we wouldn't notice (which he explained away on the basis of getting more expensive fish that day??). read more

La bamba is such a unique experience! It felt like having dinner at a friend's house. Right when you walk in, you'll notice the eclectic decor, fun music, and cozy atmosphere. We got the surf and turf fajitas, which was more than enough for two people to share. The steak and shrimp were both perfectly cooked and came with so many amazing sides and vegetables. The drinks are HUGE and come with complementary cuervo :) We got mango guava and mango hibiscus, both were great but the mango guava was my favorite. The owner was so welcoming and kept checking to see how everything was. I'd recommend this place to anyone looking for a delicious and memorable dining experience! read more

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This place is terrific in so many ways. We had no idea what to expect after receiving a menu in the mail a few months back. But my gf and I decided to give this new Mexican place a try on Labor Day. The owner/chef Michael welcomed us and was incredibly hospitable. We sat inside (there is outside seating as well). The interior is small but charming. There is some interesting Latin decor on the walls. The food is superb. This is some of the best Mexican food I've had in Philadelphia. We had: Guac and chips, a pineapple fruit drink, steak fajitas and and the swiss chard burrito (with beef added). Everything was delicious. The steak specifically was cooked perfectly. To top it off, the prices are very reasonable. The whole experience was great. It feels a bit like walking into his house, where he is cooking for you as guests. We had a nice chat with Michael as well. Everyone in the neighborhood, please try this out! You will not be disappointed. read more

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My husband and I were walking through the neighborhood when we saw la bamba's neon 'Burritos' sign blinking on the corner. The restaurant is very non descript, with no sign of the name outside. Since we had just moved to the area, we wanted to try the food in the neighborhood. We ordered burritos, a chicken for me and a steak one for him. (They were out of the pulled pork for the day, sadly). The wait was a little long but the owner was apologetic as he and another staff were the only people inside. The burritos were amazing. One bite was all it took for us to forget the long wait. The handmade tortilla is so fresh. The chicken was perfectly tender and seasoned. This ain't your Chipotle stuff (no offense to the Chipotle lovers). We will certainly be coming back again. read more

Um. I will dream about this meal. We tried a large variety of items on the menu, all were super flavorful and delicious! There is probably nothing bad on the menu, but if you would like suggestions I would definitely get the surf and turf fajita bucket, the pork burrito, and the guac nachos. I WILL be back! read more

la bamba - Surf and turf fajitas - Mexican Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Inconsistent quality and long wait times. We have ordered from here 5-6 times. Sometimes it's great, other times it's meh, tonight it was inedible. Ordered fish tacos at 6 pm. Got them at 6:40. Stood there for a long time as he fixed a mix up of giving someone the wrong order. Goy home and the only thing in the tacos was over cooked fish and half rotten lettuce. Total waste of $20 and an hour of my life. read more

la bamba - Fish taco - Mexican Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

LITERALLY THE BEST burrito I have had in Philly. They make their own tortilla and you can see the machine churning right in front of you!! The person I went with got a pork and plantain (plus other stuff) burrito and there was an ENTIRE plantain in it. I got a pulled chicken burrito and that shit was HUGE. i had to take half of it home. The owner was so kind and generous as well. Always checking in on us, and explained the whole menu to us. He made us feel right at home. He also gave us a whole basket of complimentary chips that were delicious and 3 dips (cheese and 2 salsas). And also a bottle of water for each of us. Do not judge by its outside appearance - doesnt look like much but its seriously the best mexican food in philly!!! I love it and never leave reviews but just HAD to for this one. I have to go back. Incredible. Oh and also SUPER cheap for portion sizes!!! read more

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What a neighborhood gem. I will be dreaming of the veggie tray that I had until I can return again soon! Seriously everything was delicious!!! I can't believe I waited so long to give this place a try. Don't sleep on it Philly! read more

The burritos and the organic juices were the most delicious things I've ever had. Michael, the owner was also more than generous. I highly recommend this special spot. read more

Philly Best kept Secret. La Bamba might look like a plant shop from outside but its food is far from anything you would dream of. Located on the corner of 6th and Catherine, you must check out the reviews on the web, you can totally see my pics match the comments. I order his 3-meat platter which is 6-7 adult plates for $39. Not only is that price hard to beat com at just over 5 dollars a plate but the stuff is ultra-fresh all handmade, and all the veggies are roasted to pull out the sweetness. People put that on your to do list. I am not kidding; Chef Michael even layer the containers in leaves to ensure the juices are trapped and succulent. After 2 visits you will know each other on a first name basis. read more

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It was amazing, I am so happy right now. Just had a burrito with a handmade tortilla and fresh juice. Go here!!!!

This place really just blew my mind. I'm still revelling in my impromptu Barramundi fish platter from last night. Simply amazing. The fish: perfect. The guacamole, the rice, the beans the plantains and the roasted veggies that accompanied my platter? Perfect. (not to mention it came with tortillas..) Don't even get me started on the papaya, guava and strawberry fruit water that the owner, Mike, made for me FRESH! I want to adopt that man as my uncle. After posting a picture of our "platter" ( which for less than $20 came in a HUGE aluminum pans) my friends quickly made the trip that very evening and had themselves an equally amazing experience. Will be back to this place on the regular, mark my words. Amazing. read more

la bamba - Barramundi platter - Mexican Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

I had their Steak Nachos omg it's so so good I would get it again I love finding new restaurants especially Mexican or Spanish restaurants they make everything fresh too and on site they put love into their food when they cook it, I so love their food read more

We stopped in La Bamba last night when our usual spot was closed. We were meaning to try this place for a while and we decided to walk in since it was raining. The food was not bad, it just was not that good. We got the beef nachos, Mexican dinner and fish taco platter. I think the appeal of this place is that it's home cooking, in a cute little corner shop, but there are tons more better Mexican options near by that taste more authentic and flavorful. Portions are small for the prices as well. read more

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AMAZING! a neighborhood gem! Two guys running the whole place. Cash only and the food is absolutely exceptional with huge portions the queso is the best I've had read more

Very inexpensive. The very best street tacos I've had in a long time. All fresh Staff is fabulous. Not fancy but really great food. Love it. I will take friends and family there for sure. I'll be a regular. read more

La la la la la la BAMBA! Honestly had no idea this perfect little place existed until I walked by for the first time yesterday. There's no visible signage outside or anything, but I was immediately intrigued by the hole-in-the-wall Mexican spot vibe right away. I decided to come back today and try it out for real, and I have to say, I think this is my new favorite Mexican food in the city! We walked up to order and the owner was jamming out in the kitchen, flying solo since they're only doing take-out due to Covid-19. We asked him for a few recs and went with the "Guac Nachos" and "El Pastor Pibil Burrito" which was baaaaangin' with mashed black beans, plantains, and pickled radish/veggies. The burrito wrap is also homemade which I have never had before and totally made it that much better. Wow. Blown away! And all for only $20 - we were stuffed! Great vibes, great food, hidden neighborhood gem. Will be back! read more

la bamba - "Guac Nachos" (served with 3 of these, but we were starving and ate 2 before I snapped a pic)! - Mexican Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Stopped by on a Saturday night in late March (2021) and was treated to a most delicious meal in a quirky, eclectic, utterly delightful setting. The chef/owner makes everything fresh, from the tortillas and salsa, which came with cheese sprinkled with hot Cheetos (I think) - to the perfectly prepared rancheros, vegetable burrito, and fish tacos. We enthusiastically recommend all three dishes. We left happy and satisfied. read more

You've GOT to go here. It's like a two man operation for bussing, waiting, ordering, take out, prepping and cooking the food to order, everything, and they're working their butts off for you so be patient and BRING ENOUGH CASH to tip well, there is an ATM inside but that's only helpful if you have your debit card on you! Cash only for real! I called in advance and my order was ready when I showed up, food was well packaged and still hot when I got home. Literally the burrito STAYED hot while I was eating it, you can tell how freaking fresh it was! Anyway the food: The nachos changed my friend's life. The drinks were fresh, delicious, massive. The plantains in the burrito were unparalleled and the tortilla gave it a run for its money, but the thing that keeps me up at night still thinking about this place is the mysterious turmeric potato salad thing that came in a side cup. Sounds weird I know but it could start a riot. I haven't left a review since 2015 but I couldn't leave this place hanging, that's how good it was. These 5 star reviews are NO JOKE, please give them your business! read more

Some of the best Mexican food I've ever had. Incredibly fresh. Owner is also a great guy. Highly recommend

My husband was googling to find a mexican place that we hadn't been to as we haven't been so impressed by philly mexican. This is by far the BEST Mexican that we've had in Philly and possibly anywhere else. Mike is the owner, chef, and waiter. He's a one man show and has it down to a science. The chips and guac were freshly made, salsa was incredible, and queso was perfect. The flour tortillas are made in-house daily and his special of the day was brisket which made for a great burrito. The fajitas were almost too good, I wanted to finish mine but couldn't. The mahi mahi was perfectly spiced and all of the flavors of the veggies and salsa complemented beautifully. His juices are freshly squeezed and he has every variety imaginable. I'd go back tomorrow if I thought I'd ever be hungry again. read more

A great neighborhood burrito joint and more. Complimentary shot of Cuervo in organic fresh juice. The smoked brisket burrito was amazing. Thank you to Michael the owner. read more

Hands down the best Mexican food we've ever had. I wish I could eat this every day for the rest of my life. The owner/chef is also the nicest man! Do yourself a favor and give this place a try, promise you'll be back. read more

literally life changing experience here. If you can, make reservations to sit outside on a nice day. Not only was the food delicious & reasonably priced, the employees went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and taken care of. The drinks are amazing & HUGE - make sure to ask for recommendations :) I had a magical time here and will try to visit every time I am in Philadelphia read more

Just tried for the first time - I live a block away. So glad I did...these are the best tacos I've had in the city. Got the chicken, beef and yellow fin tuna. So good is all I can say. Will def become a regular read more