First, I thought I had reviewed them already-- so if I do two, that's why. I'm giving this 5 stars relating it to other SIMILAR places-- that is, Mexican restaurants within a grocery store--- i.e. more limited menu (although their's is pretty broad), not full bar-service (but they have beer), and not fancy. For what it is-- it is really scrumptious. I had a few tacos, a ceviche tostada and a beer. BIG lunch-- I took one taco home. All the items were really chock-ful of meat. The carnitas on that taco was way too much to be able to pick up the taco with it all inside. They had a good mix of onions and cilantro on them, although I'd have preferred to add my own (I LOVE cilantro). I wish it was nearer; I'd go back often. read more

This restaurant is located in the back of a Mexican supermarket. It's not very big and if you're coming here during the week come before noon, a lot of construction workers come in here and fill the place up. The salsa and chips--- First bite tasted like tomato paste to me, very tangy and had a kick of spice. Chips were warm. No Guacamole!!!! What Mexican place has no guac? Chimichanga de pollo-- Shredded chicken with some onions, peppers and covered in cheese sauce. Fajitas mixta-- Steak was a little tough and chicken was very thin slices. Lacked some spices. More onions, green peppers and tomatoes than meat. It wasn't bad, but for our taste we have had better. The whole meal lacked spices. Would we recommend? Yes, give it a try, you might like it. Salsa is good but it's too tomato pastey for us. read more

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Fast and friendly service in an unassuming atmosphere. I found the dining area clean and updated. A perfect spot for a quick meal and grabbing some groceries. The tacos were very good! My favorite was the pastor. While I enjoyed the carnitas and barbocoa, my personal preference is a little more shredded meat and crispier carnitas. Both of the red and green salsas were excellent. Do yourself a favor and stop in! read more

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Food top notch and huge portions Authentic Mexican sometimes a little hard to communicate because everybody here is Mexican, but we managed to work our way through it read more

I'm giving this five stars meaning compared to other similar places, it's really great. By similar places, I mean a small restaurant tucked in the backside of a Mexican grocery store. So it's not fancy, it doesn't have a full bar, and so on. But what it does have is a really tasty, from my experience. I loved their ceviche, and I love it when you can get a serving that's meant and priced for one person rather than a larger table. I had a few of their tacos, the Carnitas was just a stuffed with big giant pieces of pork that were very tender. I had my baby granddaughter with me and she absolutely loved that pork. She had some beans which were really good for her. Everybody was very friendly and nice, although I find that usually when you are carrying a 10 month old, that's the case! They do have beer, which for me really rounded out some great food. Oh the grocery store itself is very well stocked with Mexican and other Latin American cuisine foods. read more

La Esperanza - Not a great photo, but I thought of it after I started. Ceviche tostada, a couple of tacos. - Mexican Near Me - Knoxville, Tennessee

Great food for a great price. There is a grocery store inside as well. Portions are substantial.

Authentic Mexican food! Large portions. The sauces are all delicious. The servers are very nice and attentive too.

Weekend barbacoa taco special was bangin, hole in the wall grocery store kitchen but a very clean spot, and very nice people

So good and fresh. Delicious food. I loved the torta and he said his meal was delicious. Definitely recommend for great food

Fast service and top notch food! Everything we have tried is wonderful and crazy fast how quickly it comes out after ordering. Horchata was very good too! I would recommend the pastor tacos and the carnitas sopes! Does not disappoint. read more

La Esperanza - Pastor tacos, carnitas sopes, enchiladas rancheras, and pollo nachos - Mexican Near Me - Knoxville, Tennessee

Holy pozoley! If your gringo sense is put off by plates from previous patrons left on a table not cleared expeditiously, walk away. Your tastebuds will hate you and everyone will know your an L7, weenie! Hell, you might have to take some of those plates and put them on another table and wipe it yourself to get a spot. Who knows, but it is worth it! That being said, walk into the market and head to the back seating area and take a seat! What's good? All of it! If you're uncertain of what to try but want to experience something, start with the gringo friendly options like a burrito or variety of tacos. The house red sauce and green sauce served with the meal is superb. Salsa and queso has a savory element to it. El Yucateco red and green are the standard bottle sauce at the table here. Weekend only menu is divine. This is the not messing around crew folks. When you are done eating you'll pay at the front where one register takes a card and the others are only cash. Be sure to pick up a Boing to drink for the road as you make your way out. Be mindful that you're the guest and you should happily enjoy yourself. If you're not comfortable being in a location where English is not the primary language spoken by employees and patrons alike this likely is not your spot. read more

First time I was here, I ordered the chicken burrito, and the caldo res (beef stew). The chicken burrito might have been the best I've ever had. It's not really a burrito, more like fajita chicken and then tucked the ingredients in ready for bedtime. Meaning you can not, will not, and should not pick this up by hand. Portion is very good, and add on being delicious. It was so good, that I returned the week after. Unfortunately, the meat was not seasoned the second time, so consistency may be an issue. Free chips were terrible. stale The caldo res was... very very bland. It tasted like they boiled some beef in water and then served it to you. Beef stew? more like beef water and the cow was on a diet. Beef stew? Nah more like drinking hot water and imagining the flavor of beef. Beef stew? Nah more like the pacquiao and mayweather beef (not real). Thats to say, burrito good, chips bad, caldo res very bad. read more

La Esperanza - caldo res ( beeeeef steeeeew) - Mexican Near Me - Knoxville, Tennessee

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Fantastic food the hurrachas are great all the taco options are the best in Knoxville read more

La Esperanza - Enchiladas rancheros - Mexican Near Me - Knoxville, Tennessee

the food is so good, also the service you don't have to wait a long time,they are also very nice the market has very single good candy you can imagine , the chips are amazing you should go here as fast as you can read more

Some of the best Mexican I've found in TN so far! Good flavor and HUGE portions! Can't wait to try more off the menu. Street tacos were a 7/10 and steak burrito was a solid 9 and could feed 2 people easily. read more

La Esperanza - Street tacos and burrito - Mexican Near Me - Knoxville, Tennessee

Came here for lunch with my soft tissue rotation peeps. I had high hopes for this joint since my experience with Mexican grocery/restaurant joints have been great. I ordered 3 tacos: marinated pork, shrimp and fish. All the tacos were dry and bland. I was extremely disappointed. I do not recommend ordering any of their tacos but their main entrees are a must get. I sampled some from my peers and it was good. Portions are huge for the price. Chips were served cold but the salsa was good since it was chunky and had a mild spice. We bought a pinata for a little over $35 and a bunch of random candy in the store. I never felt so gross from eating candy before. Maybe it's because I haven't had candy since I was a kid? read more

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Delicious, rapid service. Fajitas could use more seasoning. Giant portions. Don't forget to purchase some glass bottle Coca Cola on the way out. read more

My favorite Mexican place in town. Has huge portions for good prices, is exactly what you want a hole in the wall Mexican place to be, with no frills, and had great servers with good conversation. read more

So far our favorite Mexican restaurant in Knoxville. Their salsa is unlike any I've had it is very good and the perfect amount of heat. The pastor taco was my favorite, then carne asada, the carnitas, then barbacoa. This is the most authentic I've had in a long time. Definitely recommend and will be going back. The staff is very nice and service is very quick. read more

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Great service, friendly staff, and as always delicious food! Tried the carnitas torta this time and was not disappointed. read more

La Esperanza - Carnitas torta - Mexican Near Me - Knoxville, Tennessee

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Food is basic Mexican, good quality, fair prices. There are tables in the back of grocery store. Not much ambiance, No veggie choices...friendly service. read more

This is legit. I found a Mexican spot for all my needs. I'm sure there are others but this place... damn it was legit. Can we first start off and talk about where this place is located? It's located at the back of a grocery story. Yeah. A grocery store. It reminds me of like a kitchen from a gas station...but so much better. Why? Because the butcher is a few steps away. This place was so hidden, I didn't read any reviews and all I heard was that you just have to go and check this place out and when I got there I was confused and was questioning if I was at the right place. Definitely a hidden gem as no one was there (then again we went right before they closed). Let's get to the food: I ordered a couple of tacos, the Al Pastor Taco, and let's say they were pretty tasty. They serve Al Pastor!! I haven't seen that since my last visit to San Francisco! So finding a place that serves it... is awesome. Next thing, since I was surprised that they had Al Pastor, I continued on this line of thought and got the Al Pastor Torta. And shit, it was awesome. It's just this huge sandwich with a ton of meat. I think me thinking back on this Torta, I'm probably going to schedule a trip over there soon. The only negative thing about the food that we ordered was the burrito which was a little salty (on top of that they served it under queso which isn't quite authentic, according to the GF) but, in all honesty it could be personal taste. No worries about if you think this place is cash only. It isn't. You can pay by card at the front and that's actually how you pay. So, when you get that ticket just go up to the counter. We were a little lost for a while and didn't know what we were supposed to do, but we figured it out. Dinner was filling and our experience was pretty top notch. I'm sure we won't get the burrito again, but maybe try something else that's on the menu. I think I'll definitely have Al Pastor again and judge it a little harder, but by far I feel like this is probably the best Mexican restaurant thus far in Knoxville for me. read more

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I'm telling you guys these reviews are not lying . Great gem of a place . I am Puerto Rican and I was looking forward to the trip down memory lane going into the store I found some amazing finds which reminded me of my childhood since I was raised with Mexican cousins. I went over to the restaurant with my friend who speaks no Spanish . Honestly he was glad I was there to guide him through the menu since he doesn't know anything other than pollo and carne asada. We ordered and the food came out quickly. Per reviews we both got the chicken burrito but he got it shredded and I got it on the grill (plancha). I loved mine since it was full of flavor and huge chunks of onion and green peppers. I'm telling you that you can't beat $9.99 for a full meal. I couldn't finish it all and it could have easily fed two people . All in all generous portions and perfectly seasoned. I'm not a fan of guac but theirs is creamy and there refried beans are unlike any one's. Nothing beats an authentic home cooked Mexican meal and they met expectations and more. They have an awesome variety of dishes that you won't find anywhere else as well. Planning on going back with my friend soon. read more

La Esperanza - Chicken burrito - Mexican Near Me - Knoxville, Tennessee

All I can say is wow! If you are looking for not only the best best-tasting but also the most authentic tacos and Knoxville then look no further. Located in the back of a small Mexican market, La Esperanza delivers tasty Tacos for under $3 a pop! Served warm on double corn tortillas, each taco starts out with your choice of protein, onions, and cilantro, No nonsense. Feel free to dress them up with your choice of extras at $0.30 each. They also have a small selection of cold bottled beer and Mexican soft drinks (Coke, Sprite, Jarritos) with real sugar. As many mentioned in their review, it helps if you know a bit of Spanish to place your order and help navigate the menu. The staff is always hospitable, and the food arrives hot and fresh. (Truth be told, I have not explored anything else on the menu aside of the tacos - that's how good they are!) Note beforehand that the entire party's bill goes on the same tab, so you will need to take the ticket to the register and split yourself. Don't forget to peruse the snack aisle and get some candy or a paleta before you leave. read more

La Esperanza - Asada and pollo tacos with pico and cheese added. - Mexican Near Me - Knoxville, Tennessee

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Excellent tacos!!! We tried asada, pollo & pork- love all three! These are served traditional style w cilantro & onions. Three great salsas on the table. Sweet staff. Pay at the counter. The restaurant is in the back of the store. I really loved the rice and beans. We will be back! The fried tilapia looks amazing, can't wait to try it! I really enjoyed sampling all the little candies for vet low prices in the market after dinner for a cheap dessert & fun experience. read more

This is an overlooked jewel of a dining spot. THE BEST chicken burritos (my favorite) I have found anywhere, a wonderful guacamole dip, fresh everything, and a very tasty salsa and fresh pico de gallo, all well-prepared and served up by friendly people. Want great tacos? Look no further! It is a come-as-you-are grocery/dining spot that gets working folks by day and couples/families in the evenings, and the food is wholesome and very satisfying. read more

!!!Wonderful tacos!!! Great service, very attentive Awesome drink selection Food is very tasty and quick to come out! read more

La Esperanza - Carnitas and Asada tacos - Mexican Near Me - Knoxville, Tennessee

One of my favorite authentic Mexican restaurants in Knoxville. It's at the very back of a grocery store. Incredible prices & solid choice for tacos. Complimentary warm chips and salsa are always at the start. I always get three tacos everytime I come here and my favorites are cabeza (head), lengua (tongue), and pastor (marinated pork). These meats might sound a little crazy and not what's normally eaten at American restaurants but it's so worth trying. All of the meats are so tender and so flavorful. Huge amount of onions and cilantro on the tacos which I love!! I always eat it with the green sauce they give for an extra kick (forgot the name). Service doesn't speak too much English here but everytime I come here, they are always so kind and accommodating. Highly recommend if you're looking for authentic hole-in-the-wall Mexican food in Knoxville. read more

La Esperanza - taco menu - Mexican Near Me - Knoxville, Tennessee

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There are a few things you need to know before you eat at La Esperanza! 1) You will need to be able to speak some spanish to order your food. The alternative to this is an awkward silence followed by a lively game of charades where you do your best to act like a burrito. 2) What you will find here does not resemble what you would find at most local Mexican restaurants. If you are looking for somewhere where they deliver your meal shouting "hot plate, hot plate" or a plate covered in some gooey cheesy meltiness, you should stick to your favorites. 3) If you are willing to step out of your comfort zone, you will discover some amazing Mexican food, delivered in ginormous portions by delightful servers who light up when you even attempt their language. The whole fam-dam stopped in over the weekend for lunch and we ordered avariety of entrees from a burrito, to enchiladas, a quesadilla, and (for the win) a plate of chorizo tacos. While we waiting for our food, which seemed to be delivered in lightning speed, we snacked on chips and salsa. If I wrote letters, I just might write home about this heavenly sauce. Fresh and with a kick... just the way I like it! Our food did not disappoint. And holy portion size! We were all able to take some home for leftovers. It's like 2 meals in one...SCORE! If you like authentic and delicious food, I'd highly recommend discovering La Esperanza. read more

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This is the best authentic Mexican food in our area. The ambience is what you would expect to find if you went off road in Central America and ventured away from tourist centers. Located in the back of a Mexican/Spanish grocery store the restaurant area is clean, efficient and adequate. And, the best part, all of the store employees are fluent in Spanish and are probably from Central America. Be adventurous, try items like the chorizo taco, you will not be disappointed. read more

La Esperanza - You will also love the prices! - Mexican Near Me - Knoxville, Tennessee

I don't know how I haven't reviewed this place yet. This is, without a doubt, the best taco place in the city. And the enchiladas, rellenos, caldos.......oh my. I've seriously had nothing bad here. And it's moderately priced too. The restaurant is tucked away in the back corner of the market, so be sure and walk in and head straight to the back right. Find a table and you'll be greeted shortly with a most attentive wait staff. I've posted numerous pictures. Take a look and find your passion. Also, I was in there on a Saturday afternoon once, and everyone was ordering micheladas. I will certainly be giving those a try ASAP! read more

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Love this place. True authentic Mexican food. I eat here 3 times a month ! Lol. It is a block from my house! Best Mexican I have ever had hands down. You're welcome read more

This ain't fast food hombre. It's down home Mexican cuisine served with no frills in styrofoam and foil. It takes a while, but the flavors are great combinations. The tacos are soft, on corn tortilla shells. They are also quite small, so this fat American needed three to break the ice. I wanted more, but I didn't go back to get it because I felt it would seem gluttonous. Restaurant is in the back of the Mexican Grocer, which had a good variety of groceries. I like the Mexican versions of soda. Pretty neat. read more

La Esperanza - Best Tacos I have had in Knoxville. Period. LA Esperanza in North Hills. - Mexican Near Me - Knoxville, Tennessee

An unusual place to find a hiden gem but the search is worth the discovery. Tucked in the back corner of the market, Esperanza reminds me that there is good Mexican food outside of Mexico and LA, where I am from. The quesadillas are big and loaded with perfectly seasoning carne asada. The tacos de lengua are delicious too. Honestly, I am super impressed and have been sooo disappointed with the rest of the so-called Mexican restaurants in the area that claim to serve Mexican food, that lack flavors, and the chewable and edible textures in their food. They have horchata :) read more

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I read the other reviews and they don't lie, what a great little restaurant within a grocery store. The steak used in the burritos is perfect and they give you a ton of food for the price. Great service and the free chips and salsa are perfect read more

Great place for truly authentic Mexican food. The grocery store was well stocked with all the Mexican staples and a lot of candy. read more

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Well I'm from California 805 I was look for Tacos like the ones in my local taco shop They came pretty close but I give them a 6 from 10 Food is pretty good they have more than just tacos read more

La Esperanza - Tacos beef and pork - Mexican Near Me - Knoxville, Tennessee

Ding ding ding ding!! We found a winner! This, my culinary friends is Mexican food! To say I am impressed is an understatement. Go to the market and in the back is the restaurant. They serve breakfast all day long. The salsa is fresh the chips are delicious the tortillas are homemade. The portions are far too big to finish, unless you are feeling super hungry, otherwise you can easily share a dish. I will be back next week with a few more of my Texas family members.. GOOD, really good Mexican found in Knoxville! I will take photos next time, left phone today. read more

I love the food here. I've been to many Mexican restaurant around Knoxville and this is my new favorite. The food is clearly fresh, the portions are huge and the service is quick. My boyfriend and I ordered a chicken burrito to go. We ordered beers while we waited and we had hardly finished them before our food was ready. I've seen the reviews about slow service and I haven't personally experienced this issue. We usually eat here during the week but I'm sure there have been busy times but I haven't seen them for myself. I highly recommend La Esperanza to anyone who wants an authentic experience and great food. read more

La Esperanza - Burrito Pollo - Mexican Near Me - Knoxville, Tennessee

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It was pretty good Mexican. I can't say anything special about it compared to other places, but I would certainly go back.