We had planned on going to a popular Korean restaurant in town but they were short-staffed and barely acknowledged as we came through the door, so we left and decided to come here instead. Nice save. Parking when they're busy is a bit much but we found a spot around the corner from the door and walked to the entrance. You walk through their outside dining area which is all covered but because it had just rained it was a bit muggy for us so we opted to sit inside. The place has multiple floors and I really like that set up. We were sat upstairs on the second floor right by the top of the stairs. Looking around you can see another floor with a reserved area, tvs showing sports, and their salsa bar, more on that later. No chips and salsa here. Chips and Charro Bean Dip. The beans tasted refried and charred if that makes sense. I lost at rock, paper, scissors so I had to go visit the salsa bar and bring back dips to try. They had some pretty good ones like their homemade chipotle dressing, salsa verde, salsa de molcajete, etc. There wasn't one that we didn't like. Our server was really great and took care of us well. I got a Tamarindo Margarita and to eat the Enchiladas Poblanas (chicken enchiladas with mole sauce, queso fresco, raw onions) with the normal side of refried beans and rice, lettuce, tomato, sour cream, and guac. I got a side of extra cheese because I'm a little rat and dumped it on them. The mole sauce really hit the spot. The last time I had it the sauce was kinda bland but this gave such a nice sweet and earthy flavor. He got the Molcajete Azteca (lava rock bowl with char-grilled chicken, steak, chorizo, shrimp, queso fresco, grilled cactus, onions, avocados, serrano peppers, pork rinds), same sides as my dish. He ''Oooh-ed" and "Ahhh-ed" and "Oh my God, this is so good" so you know he was a happy guy. I can see what all the hype is about. Definitely a place to visit. read more

See all

Time for a revisit to Las Carretas. This time I was with my mom, and we got in there when a soccer game was playing, so there was a lot of activity happening. We got a seat inside away from the noise, oddly enough in about the same place as we almost always have gotten in this restaurant. I went for a burrito, which is also my standard. It was just as good this time around as it was the last time, and the service was still just as solid. Really, for this kind of Mexican food in Gainesville, this is one of the best places to go as far as I am concerned. We will be returning in the future. read more

Denied Service So I was excited to show my family this restaurant because it was good the last time I went to see the Mexico soccer game there, it was about an hour till close 10 o'clock and they close at 11 on a Friday, once we went inside, the hostess looked at us with a worried face and told us that the kitchen was backed up an hour, and that they close in an hour pretty much insinuating that we should leave. I've never been denied service as a restaurant, but it definitely felt that way. When I used to work at restaurants we would take people until closing time. I understand it's not ideal but if you aren't going to take more people you might as well turn off the "open" sign. If it's 10:00am don't go here. Yes even on Fridays. read more

While on an excursion to Gainesville, we chose Las carretas for lunch. The place was hopping. We were able to be seated outdoors on a mild day. Chips arrived with a small dish containing a bean dip. I was actually desiring salsa with my chips & discovered there is a salsa bar inside. At that point the chips & salsa became much better. I ordered the enchilada supremas which is a plate with 4 enchiladas. They were chicken, beef, cheese, & a bean enchiladas. The enchiladas were very average tasting with a very mild brown sauce. I was hoping for some spice or seasoning in the dish but that was lacking. read more

See all

The first time I went was the first and last time I enjoyed the food here, which is a shame because the salsa bar is always fun. The dishes under $50-60 (which is what I ordered every time I went back after my first visit, as I was a student and couldn't be paying for volcanic rock bowls every time) like the taco salad and chicken plates are, in a word, mid. I'd go when my friends wanted to, but never because I expected a good meal. Rather, the only good thing is the ambiance, which remains fun, and sometimes that can be enough. read more

Las Carretas Mexican Restaurant - Mexican Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

Food and services were fantastic! My family and I stopped by during a busy college move-in weekend, but they were well-staffed and we had no wait at all. Our server was very welcoming and gave recommendations since it was our first time visiting. We sat on their second floor, with the salsa bar nearby, and appreciated the view of the first floor and natural light. Each of us ordered something different, and we were very happy with our choices. We will definitely be back. Highly recommend! read more

See all

Food was excellent and well priced! We loved the red sangria and barria tacos! Best I've ever had! The shrimp ceviche was ok, I've had better, but very large portion. The kids enjoyed their meals too! read more

Las Carretas Mexican Restaurant - Kids meals - Mexican Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

Great food. They are very popular so it took us awhile to get seated. We were seated in 2top that was too close to bar where waiters were entering and exiting constantly bumping my seat. I really liked the vegetarian trio course and the salsa bar. They make their own salad dressing that was my favorite. We tried the margarita sampler it was fun and good presentation. Mostly frozen dessert cocktails. If you want something to pair with a main course it's better to get regular margarita. read more

Las Carretas Mexican Restaurant - Mexican Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

From the moment we walked in you could feel the energy. There was a live DJ playing Spanish music that really set the vibe for the whole night. The staff were super friendly and the service was incredibly fast. They have a large menu with pretty much every Mexican dish you can think of. We started with the queso and table-side guacamole, both of which were perfect for sharing. Of course we visited the salsa bar which everyone tells about. For the main course, we had the chicken flautas, steak quesadilla, arroz con pollo, and shrimp fajitas. I have to say, the food came out in UNDER 10 minutes, which was so impressive considering how busy they were. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and just hit the spot. A manager came out to check on us shortly after our food arrived, which was a nice touch. It really showed that they care about the customer experience here. The combination of delicious food, great music, and fast service made this place a winner. Highly recommend it for anyone looking for a fun night out with amazing food and good vibes! Will definitely be coming back. read more

See all

I think I have eaten 3 or 4 different dishes, visited the restaurant about a dozen times. Not a bad meal yet. Authentic Mexican food, great staff, and their salsa bar is awesome. You'll love it! read more

Came back to this gem with friends recently and had another great meal. We went around 6pm for dinner and the restaurant was popping! This is a popular spot and will get busy, especially on the weekends, campus functions, sporting events, etc. We were seated quickly upstairs. Service was decent and our waiter did a pretty good job taking care of us. I feel like she could have been a little more attentive to our waters and such. But overall, she was good. We were brought fresh, warm chips almost right away with a small cup of bean dip. The complimentary salsa bar is a must here. One of my favorite parts of dining at Las Carretas is their wonderful, free salsa bar. There are so many salsa options, along with a couple dressings, and some pickled veggies. They will replenish your chips if you ask them too. We easily went through about 3 baskets! One thing that we didn't love about our meal was the singing/performance they had going on. While the woman singing was nice and added to the overall experience, it was so loud. I could barely hear my friends around the table. This was slightly frustrating as I can see how it was meant to add to the overall experience of dining in the restaurant. But unfortunately it was just a little too much. For my entree, I ordered one of their new items, the Quesabirria. The dish featured "the juiciest quesabirria" filled with home made adobo chile guajillo, beef brisket, cheese, cilantro, and onions, served with rice, refried beans, and consommé broth for dipping. I thoroughly enjoyed this meal and thought it was perfect! The tortilla was fresh with just the right amount of charring on the outside. It was filled with super tender, flavorful brisket that was easily the star of the plate. Accompanied by ample amounts of melty cheese, fresh cilantro, and sautéed onions--a wonderful meal. I will say, the tortilla is stuffed with the juicy meat and it does get a little soggy and fall apart if you don't eat it quickly. I didn't mind this, as it didn't take away from the flavor of the dish. The rice and refried beans were also quite satisfying as I always enjoy theirs. The portion was large and I was easily full after clearing my plate! All in all, I had another great dinner at Las Carretas. The food was amazing, per usual. Really enjoyed the fresh chips and salsa bar to start. My Quesabirria was really good and I would highly recommend this dish. A filling plate, with plenty of tender brisket, this is sure to satisfy anyone who enjoys birria. The vibe of the restaurant was also great, per usual. As I mentioned above, the singer was a nice addition to the ambiance, but it was just too loud. Another thing I will note is that the table-side guacamole is not complimentary and is something you pay for. Many people get this confused when they come to the table. It is not a complimentary service, but I have had it before and will say it is worth trying! Service was good, nothing mind blowing though. I will be returning and will be ordering a margarita too! read more

See all

We were craving Mexican and decided to give Las Carretas one more try. We were mistaken. The water tastes like they retrieved it from the toiled bowl. They've adjusted their salsa recipes and they no longer have much of anything with a real kick. They removed the alambre de lengua from their menu, which was a fave. The quesabirria I ordered thinking I could not go wrong... $18 for what looked like a kids meal portion. Service was fine. Food below average, just stereotypical Mexican. Welp. Definitely a hard no on going back. read more

See all

This place does not do well when busy. Orders are missed, food arrives cold, and reservations are not kept. Inside and outside seating available. Reservations recommended (but you're lucky if they adhere to them). read more

Las Carretas Mexican Restaurant - Outside - Mexican Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

My favorite Mexican restaurant in Gainesville and can't believe I am just now writing a review! It is always generally pretty busy, but I personally have never had to wait (but this is for a table for two!). The service was quick - we did get our food before the tableside guac came though. Speaking of, you have to get this guac - it's phenomenal and made right at your table with all the toppings. If you prefer getting salsa, there's a variety at their salsa bar (on first and second floors). My go to is always the carne asada - I cannot stray because it just that good! read more

Service and food were excellent! You HAVE to order the tableside made guacamole! The flavor explodes with deliciousness! Good selection of beer on tap too. Fun place for sure! read more

See all

I've been to Las Carretas a few times with friends, usually on weekends, but this time I went on a weekday night. The parking lot was packed and the restaurant was busy, but since it was just two of us we got seated pretty quickly. Service was friendly and quick even though it was busy. I don't know if it was where we were sitting but I could barely hear my friend talk. They start you off with free chips and bean dip. The bean dip was watery and not really my thing, and while the chips were classic Mexican restaurant style, some were too hard and oily. What I really love here is the salsa buffet. They have a ton of different salsas and spice levels. I always go for the Carretas dressing (the white sauce) and the table salsa since I don't handle spicy stuff well. For my meal, I ordered the Blancas Enchiladas which come with char-grilled chicken enchiladas topped with queso fresco and queso dip, plus beans, rice, lettuce, pico, guac, and sour cream. The portion was good, and while the chicken was soft, it was a bit bland. The tortilla edges that didn't have sauce were dry. Rice was solid, veggies were fine, and the guacamole could have been fresher. My friend got the queso blanco with chips and flautas. She liked both and said the flavor was good. I tried the queso myself. I was a little watery but had a nice kick. read more

Las Carretas Mexican Restaurant - Enchiladas Blancas - Mexican Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

We found Las Carretas Mexican Restaurant in Gainesville through a last-minute Facebook Valentine's Day event, and WOW what a surprise! The event said no reservations needed, so we showed up not realizing how popular it would be. The place was PACKED with a line out the door! Even so, we only waited about 25 minutes for a table on Valentine's Day, which honestly wasn't bad at all considering the crowd. We went specifically for their Valentine's special: 2 margaritas, fajitas for two, and dessert, such a great deal! The margaritas were delicious. We ordered the Rita sampler and the blueberry margarita tasted like blueberry pie, so fresh, organic, and absolutely yummy. We also ordered homemade guacamole, which was delectable, paired with fresh, crispy homemade chips. Our fajitas included steak, pork, chicken, and shrimp, and everything was cooked to perfection. The flavors were incredible!!! And can we talk about the restaurant itself? It's HUGE! It felt like one of those multi-level Times Square NYC restaurants, with multiple floors and even outside patio seating. It was like a magic trick walking through it! Our waitress, Lia, was fantastic, attentive, helpful, and so sweet despite how busy it was. The staff worked incredibly hard all night and it showed. Plentiful parking, amazing food, great atmosphere. We will definitely be back to this hidden gem we didn't even know existed in town. Thank you for making our Valentine's Day special after a long day of yard work read more

I thought the food was decent for the amount of hype this place gets. When I arrived, there were a ton of people waiting and the whole establishment was filled, so I came in with high expectations. Starting with what was good, the table side guacamole and ceviche were great starters, both with good flavor. The salsa bar was also a great addition to the place and a nice differentiator from other restaurants. I enjoyed the variety of spicy salsas offered. The service was also great throughout the night as well. For the entrees, the birria tacos were the one dish I thought was tasty. The meat was very juicy and tender, but I wish they provide a little bit more consume with the dish. The other entrees we ordered weren't too great. The steak for the fajitas and mar y Tierra dish was bland and didn't have a nice texture to it. Furthermore, the vegetables had no flavor. The shrimp was tasty though. The fish that came with the tacos was also firm and not very crispy. Overall the food was ok but didn't find anything special about this place. read more

See all

Loves this place the people and the food there was so delicious and came out fast I would for sure go try them out if u get the chance read more

Las Carretas Mexican Restaurant - The chips and salsa was great and the Burrito Master was so so good and my wife's tacos where the best she had from an Mexican - Mexican Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

See all

Wevhad Alejandra as our server she was awwesome explaining items for me and tried some mew items. Food was awesome as usial, and service was 2nd to none!always authentic mexican music playing over speakers addingbthe atmosphere. read more

See all

Authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex food. Fresh made and flavorful. Their salsa selection is a bit different from many Mexican food restaurants in that it is on the table in squeeze bottles. Service was first class and the food arrived tableside hot out of the kitchen. The decor is bright colors, beer paraphernalia, and banners. Not a white tablecloth experience, but the food doesn't know that. Very good food, large dining room, great people. read more

valentina was so attentive and sweet. we loved the vibe here as well- very relaxed yet modern. they have a salsa bar with house salsa, pico, verde etc. we enjoyed the queso app and i really loved the chicken soup. read more

Las Carretas Mexican Restaurant - chicken soup - Mexican Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

See all

I was first introduced to this place by my daughter and I must say I was amazed and taking away about the atmosphere the authentic Mexican atmosphere music and the food. I had the quesadilla with the black beans and rice along with guacamole and chips that they make in front of you .Everything was fresh. It was so much food that I had to take some home for later. Do not pass this place without going there stopping in and pay them a visit you will enjoy the food in the atmosphere. read more

While the food is pretty good the noise level in this restaurant is catastrophic, read sitting in the front row of a heavy metal concert loud!! We had a party of 8 people and it was hard to even hear the person next to you let alone the waitress at the end of the table talking to you about the menu! Then to top it off a singer appeared at the table with a portable amplifier and microphone and began singing! I feel sorry for the staff having to endure this assault to their hearing! The Birria Tacos and Street Corn I had was good. But unfortunately we won't be back as the noise made it unbearable! I will say it was a Saturday night, but we have been there during the week and it was pretty much just as loud. It is busy so I guess the majority of patrons don't mind yelling to be heard at their tables. read more

Las Carretas had some great reviews online so we decided to try it on a trip to Gainesville. The restaurant is modern and clean. We were seated immediately when we walked in and the waiter quickly took our order. We ordered the Texas fajitas, which had shrimp, chicken, and steak. It also came with beans, rice, salsa, guacamole, and three tortillas. The portion size was decently large and the food came out very quickly. I really enjoyed the steak, but otherwise the dish was nothing special. They also provided a complimentary basket of chips and had a salsa bar, which unfortunately no one mentioned. Overall, it was okay Mexican food in Gainesville. read more

See all

They were voted best Mexican restaurant 2025, and I agree. Chips with a whole salsa bar - free! Their drink sizes are generous and if you purchase during happy hour, amazing value. The chicken tortilla soup will cure any cold, period. read more

Las Carretas Mexican Restaurant - Birria (shredded beef) Burrito very generous portion and thick! We had leftovers. - Mexican Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

Really good! Fresh Guac made at our table, I had steak quesadillas which was super good. Service was great and food was fantastic. Really great experience, we'll be back again. Horchata was really good tooo read more

See all

Food so good that I forgot to take a picture!! That never happens... Best rice and beans I've had in a long while, full of flavor and perfect texture. Drinks as small or large as you can imagine. Highly recommend the pepino Margarita- great cucumber flavor. read more

The food was very well seasoned! It was great to have Mexican food that did not taste "run of the mill". The only thing I did not enjoy was the tres leche. read more

Ordered take out vegan Fajitas. No tortillas came with the meal. Portions cold. No time to return to the restaurant.

Everything was wonderful. We celebrated my sister's birthday. The food, the service everything was wonderful. We will be back. read more

Las Carretas Mexican Restaurant - Sister's cake. - Mexican Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

The food is amazing, and the service is just as great! However, the only issue is with the utensils -- they're quite rough and have sharp edges on the handles, which actually hurt your hands when using them. My wife insists we can't come back unless this is addressed. The restaurant itself is beautiful, and the salsa bar is fantastic, but I might need a few aspirins afterward because of those sharp utensils! read more

Las Carretas Mexican Restaurant - Bar Area - Mexican Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

A decent all-around dinner out. Chips and bean dip were a hit. Carne asada with ribeye was perfect. Delicious from start to finish. Couple slight tuneup areas -- more attentive to table service and drink refills. read more

Been here twice & both times the food and service were great. The staff here are truly top notch. If you take a look around at the all the staff they are all working so hard! I love that they have a sauce bar!!! Menu is plentiful & the margaritas are LARGE. I got the peach which had real fruit inside. Also the line at the door was long but we were seated quickly! read more

First the customer service was awsome not only that the food came so fast me and my family didn't have to wait a long time. Also loved how the prepared the guacamole infront of us and it came fresh. The restaurant also had so many places to sit and enjoy the food. 10/10 would definitely recommend! read more

Excellent food and service. Cece was our sever and she did a great job. I love the soy tacos and guacamole. They have plenty of vegetarian options. The patio is comfortable and they have fans to help with the heat. I look forward to coming back. This is one of my go to places while in Gainesville. read more

Las Carretas Mexican Restaurant - Patio Seating - Mexican Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

This is a great Authentic Mexican restaurant located in Gainesville Florida. The menu has many food Mexican food options and the prices are very reasonable. The portions are very large. I ordered tamales and fajitas that were excellent. The fajitas had all kinds of proteins in one dish such as pork, chicken, meat and shrimp. The service was friendly, knowledgeable and quick. The interior was decorated nicely. I totally recommend and definitely will be back when I am in Gainesville again. read more

See all

Who can't resist a really good margarita? Spot on authentic Mexican food. Delicious handcrafted margaritas. Food was very good, free chips are brought to the table and everyone has access to the Salsa Bar. Wild Berry. Margarita. Fresh blueberry, blackberry, and raspberry, silver tequila, agave nectar, and fresh lime juice. Served on the rocks. This drink was packed with fresh fruit and the small was way bigger than expected. Steak Fajitas come to the table sizzling with onions and peppers, warm tortillas and a plate of lettuce, tomato, guacamole and beans. Pollo Popeye is a nice marinated grilled chicken breast with spinach, mushrooms, queso and a side of rice and beans. A different dish that was good and the chicken was so flavorful. This is a fun, lively restaurant guaranteed to put you in a good mood. read more

See all

It was our first time visiting and overall was great! Our server Ronn was great and got everything we needed! My husband got the Enchiladas Mexicanas and basically finished his plate. I got the Texas Fajitas and that was a huge portion. It was absolutely delicious especially with the corn tortillas! Highly recommend coming here! read more

See all

Food was gross. bland taste. just an over priced Taco Bell. plate presentation was awful. set tacos on their side and the hard shells got soggy. Sauce served with chips at table was disgusting read more