La Altena Restaurant

We eat here at least once per week. Always good food at a good price.

Siempre es un placer visitar este lugar tengo años visitando y siempre mi familia contenta

This is hands down the best Mexican restaurant that I’ve eaten at since I was a child. I am 52 so this is a huge compliment that spans across decades and states in the country. The only thing that could be perceived as a negative for some is that it’s nothing fancy and the bathrooms are in rather poor condition but because of the quality and the price of the food I don’t even care! It’s that typical hole in the wall place that you find hidden ever now and then that makes you wonder how you lived without it your whole life!!??? Everything is made fresh. Nothing is microwaved. When they start you out with salsa let me tell you it is perfection! The cilantro and jalapeños and onions are countered with an acidity level that is hard to achieve. It’s not overly spiced and no cumin that I can taste. As far as ordering, I recommend the fajita chimichangas because they are EXCELLENT and they are HUGE. This with the grilled chicken breast, peppers and onions inside and a very generous amount of cheese dip smothered on the outside can’t be beat. I mean it’s just so much food with every entree that I don’t know how they are making money. This is why I forgive the bathroom situation! The waiter with the pony tail on top of his head is excellent and hilarious to communicate with. These people run their business with a servants heart which is becoming too rare. If you love good, FRESH ingredients then you have got to try this place in downtown Chattanooga. I love it!!!

Go here most Fridays for Lunch. They have a very small buffet but have all you need for lunch at a great price. UPDATE: Buffet is no more since 2020. They have a very good variety on a new menu. Still love the food.

Good food portion sizes and great prices. Definitely will be back.