I have to say we were very disappointed in the food at La Olla. The salsa was bland and lacked spice. I had the chicken tacos which were black on all ends but the chicken inside was not burnt. The chicken tasted and had the consistency of canned chicken. My husband had the cheese enchiladas which were also disappointing and our son had the beef tacos. None of us enjoyed our meals. The refried beans were bland and the Spanish rice tasted like boxed rice. The only the thing that was good was the jalapeño margarita my husband had. How this establishment was voted best on the northwest side, I have no idea. We won't be back to this restaurant. read more

My husband and I arrived about 5pm and there were at least 4 booths open. I requested a booth because I have back issues and sitting on their chairs is tough for me. The young hostess said, " it's starting to get busy." I said a booth would be better for me. She grabbed menus and I thought she was leading us to a booth but she stopped at a table. I asked if we could please have a booth. She abruptly said, "No," then quickly turned and walked away. She was really rude. So we left. I was so disappointed and frustrated because we have never had a problem and we love their food. read more

This is always my go-to for chili rellenos and calabacitos. It sets a high bar for both those items. I have had various other dishes here for the last 10 years and enjoyed the quality and freshness of the food. The prices have risen since covid but the service is good and a very clean restaurant. read more

La Olla Mexican Cafe - Chili relleno with calabacitos - Mexican Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

This is a most excellent family Mexican restaurant. Delicious recipes and I always go back! They never disappoint.

Good food and service. The guy seating us was trying to give us a mid floor table even though 4 booths were available. He was the only negative part . read more

Very interesting and delicious menu. My husband got the horchata white russian, which was SO good! We shared the queso fundito, it was good but I was in the mood for queso and this was much thicker. In all fairness our waitress warned us. I had the combo #6 and it was hands down awesome. OMG, so good. The empanadas dough melted in your mouth and it sat on top of a delicious sauce. The fish taco surprised me, it looked like a corn dog on a tortilla but man it packed flavor. My husband got the Sonora dog, which came with sweet potato fries. We're visiting Tucson so that was our first Sonora dog. Not sure we're qualified to judge how it compares. But it was very good, my husband said it was in the top dogs he's ever had. We finished dinner with the fried Twinkies that came with chocolate jalapeño ice cream. The ice cream was out of this world . read more

La Olla Mexican Cafe - Fried Twinkies with jalapeño chocolate ice cream - so good!! The ice cream is out of this world. - Mexican Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

The food was ok, but the taste stayed with me all day. The spices were long lasting. My daughter enjoyed her plate and my friend loved the tamale pie. I would venture to say this was a first and a last visit. It was a good attempt at New Mexico style food but not quite what I was hoping for. The place was clean, the staff friendly and the choices plentiful. read more

I have not been over to this café in a while because I recall my other half was not too crazy about a meal we had several years back. So when my girlfriend suggested we try it for lunch, I was all on it. Oh I can say is... I am totally in shock about the meal I had for lunch with my girlfriend today. First off the restaurant was a little crowded but slowing down since we met at 1 o'clock. My girlfriend got there first and she was waiting with the menus and water, yet it took almost 5 minutes for me to get a water. While waiting, I looked at their special lunch menu and all the tacos had hard shells BUT it said they would make absolutely no substitutes on anything. So both of us ordered tacos off the regular menu (which in truth weren't really more than one dollar higher than the specials). Then, I thought I ordered just two tacos... But out came a taco plate for us both and when I said something the waitress looked at me with frustration and came back with an empty plate announcing I could place my tacos on it. Let me tell you--- these tacos were soft corn but nobody warmed or grilled the shells. As a result they were cold and pasty in texture. We both had shrimp and a fish taco a piece. Their shrimp were on edge of being fishy and the fish taco came with one little deep fat fried piece of fish about the size of my thumb. The salsa we were served also tasted like something that came out of a can along with a telltale of green chilies that definitely came out of a can. I don't think I am coming back here even if my friend suggested it, I would say let's go and I would offer a alternative. I didn't say anything though. But when we got to the gym later for our work out she confirmed that she felt it was a mundane tasteless meal. read more

La Olla Mexican Cafe - One thumb size fish piece gummy taco. - Mexican Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

A great small Mexican restaurant in Marana. Great food, comfortable atmosphere, outstanding service, and a locally owned business. Owners are always there. read more

It was INCREDIBLY expensive! The food was ok but we won't be going back. Service was quick but the food was no any where near as good as what we were expecting. read more

Have you ever seen or tried edible art? Regardless of your answer, this is where you do it! The food took a little extra time coming out while moderately busy. Once we saw the food presentation and tried it our minds were at peace. The salsa was excellent. Nice and chunky and a hint of spice with extra unique veggies in it. Chips tasted fresh and crisp. The food was absolutely delicious! Cheese enchilada and sauce was mega tasty, beef taco was really good although it looked like a thin hamburger patty as the beef, rice and beans were very good, and the cream of veggies looking stuff was really really good. It's called Calabacitas and I highly recommend it! Water was tasty and the iced tea was average. The only reason I gave a 4 star review is due to the service. Staff was friendly but everytime my server passed by I had to make a point to ask for a refill when in general I think they should ask me that, especiallywhen they look at it and see it is empty. My wife also was never offered a refill on her water. Overall, excellent food presentation and super delicious taste. We both loved our plates and will be back. It is our favorite local Mexican food spot to date :). - Your new local food critic read more

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Good service, clean, friendly, but most important, really good food. I love their calabacitas. Excellent margaritas too.

The Chocolate Jalapeño Ice Cream is one of the finest desserts I've ever eaten. I would not consider myself a dessert person but I would definitely go back for that dish alone. read more

Food is fabulous. Desserts are heavenly especially the house made dark chocolate jalapeño ice cream with carmelized pecans and a raspberry coulis!!!!!!! Did I say it was fabulous??? YESSSSS Empanadas - the best ever Service is friendly and professional read more

This past Saturday night was a chilly one here in Tucson, and we felt like a nice, warming meal. Therefore, we made a return visit to La Olla in Marana, a bit of a trek to the Northwest, but well worth it. One only has to scoot up I-10 West, take Exit 244, left on Twin Peaks, left on Coachline, left on Silverbell; then, it's right there on the right in a small strip mall. Upon arrival, we were seated promptly, given our menus, had drink orders taken and provided with chips and salsa. The chips were crisp, and the salsa was great: Just thick enough, not runny; spicy, but not too spicy. Last time, Mom had Manchego Shrimp, and I had Pork Carnitas; both entrees were delicious. Our choices were made easy this time because of the two nightly specials that were on offer. She chose Green Chili Shrimp Enchiladas, and I picked the "Surf-n-Turf," which was a combination platter of Carne Asada and Shrimp Manchego. Each was served with side orders of Frijoles Refritos, Arroz Mexicano and Calabacitas. Both the food and the plates were brought out piping-hot, caliente, not picante. The cuisine at La Olla is inspired by traditional Sonoran fare with innovative touches that one might find at a Baja resort. Mom remarked that it reminded her of more-upscale meals on which she had dined in Mexico City. The Chili Verde sauce on her entree was light and fresh, and the enchiladas were packed with shrimp that were nice and firm, neither rubbery, nor mushy. The Carne Asada on mine was perfectly seasoned, and the Shrimp Manchego was tasty, as always. Many restaurants make this shrimp dish under various names: In Puerto Penasco, Mexico, a similar dish is called Cameron Carlos Quinto. The Arroz Mexicano and Frijoles Refritos were very good, not generic, and insipid, as at some Mexican places. The Calabacitas were outstanding, just as they were last time, the best that I have ever had, bar none. For a beverage, I had my usual Horchata. The waitresses were very attentive and kept checking back to see if we needed anything else, more chips and such, and to see how we were doing. The decor at Las Ollas is very low-key with a continental feel, not that of an old-style Mexican restaurant, and that suits the food that it serves. Once again, it was a pleasurable dining experience. We will definitely be back, and we are even thinking about just having a meal of appetizers one night as we would like to try some of them, as well. Last, but not least, the hostess who bade us good night had a lovely smile. read more

La Olla Mexican Cafe - February Saturday Night Special - Tortilla, Carne Asada, Calabacitas, Arroz, Mexicano, Frijoles Refritos, Shrimp Manchego - Todo Muy Rico - Mexican Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

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Good food! Great place to eat. Great, friendly staff and clean environment. Recommend it. read more

We live in Southern California about 50 miles North of Los Angeles. This afternoon we came to La Olla and found a real Gem. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted warmly, given our choice of seating and made to feel at home. Everything was FANTASTIC!!!!!!!! We will definitely be back again. Thank you so much for making this a great experience!!!!! read more

My new Favorite Mexican restaurant! This is just what I like to see when I order. Fresh ancho Chiles for the Chile relleno, not from a can. Everything was fresh and tasty. If you like Seis, you'll love this place read more

We called ahead and reserved a table. Olivia helped us. She is amazing. We wanted to take our aunt to our favorite Mexican joint and she loved it. Our aunt is quite picky (the type that sends things back if unsatisfied). Our aunt ordered the Cadillac drink which was too tart for her taste and Olivia made it more sweet for her. That was so sweet of her. My husband order ordered the combo 3 and loved it. I ordered combo 6 because I was craving fish tacos. They have this amazing squash corn side dish that is to die for. My aunt has one of their specials. She ate the whole thing. We ordered the churro dessert. Very crunchy and perfect mix with ice cream. This restaurant is close to our house, has very professional, knowledgeable and kind employees. And the best part, they have consistently delicious food. read more

We've been coming here for several years and have never had a bad meal. They have great lunch specials for $5.95, and excellent value. My wife really likes the La Olla Bowl. I'm a big fan of Chile con carne roja, and had it today. Very flavorful, but it is more of a shredded beef texture (see picture), whereas I like larger cubes of beef like the way they prepare it at the Carlota's in Catalina. I like La Olla for their more healthful options and sides - the calabacitas are the best! read more

La Olla Mexican Cafe - Chile con carne roja with calabacitas at top of dish - Mexican Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

Nice local neighborhood spot for Mexican food. Only place I know of that has a "giant taco"... and yes it's huge.

The tacos are TDF! Like my Moms used to be, authentic and deep fried! The beans are unparalleled! Great little gem! Try it there or to go and you're in for a total treat! read more

La Olla Mexican Cafe - You can't go wrong! - Mexican Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

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The food was amazing!! The staff was so sweet and very good! The ambiance is so lovely, very family oriented and just perfect!

Carne seca was fantastic & the service was excellent. The chili Rellenos was great as well.

Wonderful wonderful wonderful food! All freshly prepared and so worth the wait if its crowded. Friendly staff. I had the Olla Wrap with is steak w marinated mushrooms cheese bacon avacodo!! Delicious!. They have lunch specials for only $7.25. I have been here twice and will be coming back. Coming back today and will update my review from ladt year. Awesome place. Today again I will have the chilpote chicken salad. So delicious with candied pecans and bleu cheese crumbles. Generous servings at la Olla. read more

Huge portions at a fair price. Friendly and efficient service. Small dining room is a bit crowded and noisy so don't expect an intimate dining experience. read more

La Olla is more New Mexico style (minus the green chilis everywhere) Mexican than the Sonoran style we are accustomed to in Tucson. This place is conveniently located for me and delivered on Postmates! My kiddos love their crunchy tacos and beef tamales (no spice which is perfect since one thinks pepper is spicy). I'm a huge fan of their version of calabacitas in all their cheesy goodness. read more

First time eating here. I don't understand the good reviews because it was complete garbage. This "ground beef taco" is a an unseasoned hamburger patty. Really?! I've had better food at Taco Bell! Thanks for ruining a birthday dinner. read more

La Olla Mexican Cafe - "Ground beef taco" - Mexican Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

Delicious, authentic Mexican food! We loved our first experience here and will be back!

The Food was good and the beer was COLD. VERY INEXPENSIVE! Very authentic tasting food. Not your typical Arizona "Mexican" Almost more of a New Mexican flare. The prices are great too!! read more

Truly the best Mexican food in 12 states! Not your typical Americanized Mexican restaurant. Their Chipotle Shrimp and Pork for $16.25 and their Manchego Shrimp are out of this world! Add their Tamale Pies, Calabacitas, chips, salsa and hand-stretched flour torillas are soooooooooooooo delicious! Wow! During this terrible time of self quarantine, ordering take out from La Olla is easy and still provides amazing meals for reasonable prices! read more

The food is good, the ambience fairly typical, the service great. Portion sizes were large and had to take home leftovers.

We were in Sedona for the week and could not get back to Tucson quick enough. We drive straight through and our first stop was La Ollie. This is our second time in and one of many more to come. You have to try the shrimp empanadas. Delicious. Service was great just like last time. And we felt at ease and welcomed just like we were old friends. read more

We had an absolutely delicious dinner here. I had the shrimp wrapped in bacon and topped with manchego cheese. It was phenomenal. My kids very much enjoyed their flautas. The service was excellent and our chips were refilled which kept everyone happy. The Horchata was was rich and sweet and the margarita was perfect. We very much enjoyed our visit to this restaurant. read more

They used butter in everything and everyone knows everything is better with butter. The shrimp tacos were tasty. The homemade chips and guacamole also knocked it out of the park. Those calabacitas were unlike any I've had before and I'll be dreaming about them for a long time! My only complaint is we were promised super spicy salsa in our take out order but got mild (still excellent) salsa fresca. read more

Outstanding, so different from every other Mexican restaurant. Everything is fresh, service great. Our favorite

The food and prices are excellent! The Cadillac margarita is the best we've ever had. The staff runs like a well oiled machine---super smooth, quick, efficient and positive to each other and to their customers. The service was absolute outstanding and attentive. read more

Excellent Cadillac Margaritas! We has enchiladas,tacos and taco salad . All were very good. The service was spot on. We got there at 5:15 on a Friday night and got right in. When we left there was a line waiting to get in. We will be back. read more

Delicious food! Great service! Everything we ordered was delicious ! We tried chili relleno and chimichanga. Trista was great!

We had dinner here and the food was great. I had the Carne Seca plate which came with calabacitas, rice and beans with a flour tortilla. The service was prompt and they were busy with take out orders. All the staff were wearing masks and tables were spread apart. It's not a very large space, and towards the end of our dinner the seating started to fill. Restrooms were clean and overall the restaurant was clean. We'll be back. read more

La Olla Mexican Cafe - CARNE SECA PLATE House dried seasoned beef, slow-simmered with rice, beans calabacitas and a warm hand-stretched flour tortilla. - Mexican Near Me - Tucson, Arizona