Color me confused. There are many fantastic ratings for this restaurant on many review sites. To me, they seem on the decline and still riding off their numerous positive reviews from the good ol' days. The place is pricy, especially for Mexican food in the middle of nowhere. Large slanted floor to ceiling windows let in ample light and the decor is ethnic and cheerful. Tables are paired with a colorful arrangement of chairs and come with pickled carrots and salsa. Salsa was spicier than average (4 stars) and had a nice earthy flavor. These notes of toasted seaweed were probably toasted leaves. We ordered the carnitas, chicken mole tamale, horchata and flan. The carnitas arrived half immersed in a pool of oil. Ick. The pork was not flavorful and was begging to be seasoned. On the plus side, it wasn't dry or tough, but still a far cry from tender. Nor was it slightly crispy like I expect my carnitas to be. The flan was creamy except the sauce was bitter. Burnt sugar. I'm surprised they still served it. I feel sorry for the lady before us that ordered two. If I came back, it would only be for the salsa. read more

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We plan our trip to Gig Harbor around stopping at La Tarasca for lunch. This is our favorite Mexican restaurant. Though we stop only once or twice a year they are always friendly. The food is hot, service is fast and reasonably priced. read more

AMAZING. Authentic. Life. Altering. Charming. Heart and soul warming. Delicious. read more

Ordered Carne Asada Meat was severely overdone They don't give chips And the pickled carrots are not a good substitute read more

La Tarasca has been our mandatory pitstop on our way down to and back from Oregon for a number of years now (apologies for only now getting around to adding our rave review to the list!). My wife LOVES the pickled carrots that they start you with. We've enjoyed everything we've ordered, but our current favorites are definitely potato sopes and pineapple tomales. And the service is wonderful! Whether you live in the area or are just passing by, make sure to have a bite at this family owned and operated business! read more

My wife and I came here unsure what to expect. The fantastic Yelp reviews lured us in, but would the restaurant turn out to be just your standard greasy/beany/cheesy Mexican fare with more taste, or something entirely different? We're huge fans of Baja-style Mexican food, which is completely different from most regular Mexican restaurants. Hence, we were suspicious. Upon arriving, we were greeted by an "hola," so I immediately knew I was going to like this place. We glanced at the menu and thought it looked interesting - at least enough to stay for dinner. My wife ended up getting the carnitas (their specialty), and I opted for the chili relleno. The dishes came within minutes and were delicioso! Both entrees came with rice and refried beans, which were very flavorful (I think the rice had been flavored with tomatoes). The entrees themselves tasted great, and were enhanced by wrapping them in the corn tortillas. I'm not even a big corn tortilla fan, but these were excellent. We finished off the meal with flan, which was definitely house made and had a great caramel flavor. Prices were perhaps slightly higher than normal, but only slightly. We also can't say enough about the staff, who were incredibly professional, prompt, and friendly. While the restaurant was not our preferred Baja style, it was a very unique Mexican fare that we've not seen in America before and we would definitely return. read more

This place is unreal! It is amazing. It's incredibly fresh and the tortillas are super soft and delicious. I was a little nervous when I pulled up because it's a small, unassuming place with a super tiny parking area on the sides of the building. The staff was super nice and attentive. We got the tamales, chiles rellenos, and some tacos. Not one thing was a disappointment. I was so surprised at how amazing the food was. It isn't cheap, greasy Muchas Gracias kind of food, but authentic, handmade food and it really shows. I am already asking when we will be going back up there so we can go there again. I absolutely recommend this place to everyone! read more

Never thought I would find a gem in Centralia. We were driving towards Olympic national park from Portland and realized Centralia was our last chance to get food. Looking up on yelp, we found this highly rated restaurant. The food was pretty expensive for Mexican food but it was delicious. Definitely will be back read more

La Tarasca - Mexican Near Me - Centralia, Washington

The carnitas plate at La Tarasca is my go-to dish, especially when returning from an epic day at White Pass. Succulent pork can also be found in their adobada. It is like none other I've ever experienced. No chips, no problem. I like to order 2 adobada tacos and the carnitas plate. They don't have chips, and they pride themselves in going against the grain on typicalness. Not sure why, but I believe it because they want you to focus on their regional dishes and specialties, rather than be known as a typical Mexican restaurant, which they're not. The owner/staff are fantastically hospitable, too. read more

La Tarasca - Carnitas plate. Enjoy an authentic beer, too! - Mexican Near Me - Centralia, Washington

Great food, had the carnitas with beans and rice. The refined beans were some of the best I've had. Also great wait staff.

Truly authentic Mexican food must be hard to find in Seattle, because we used to drive down here for lunch. From Seattle. 90 miles away. 1.5 hours each way. 4 hours total. For lunch. During the work week. Yes, it was worth it. This is a family run business. Mercedes is up front. Her mom and dad are in the kitchen. Her daughter is one of the waitresses. Together they serve my favorite adobadas and flan that I've had. If you find yourself driving through Centralia, stop by and say hi -- and eat an adobada for me! read more

We were regulars here even before we moved to Lewis County. Really outstanding food, nice family service. Just the best.

Rude service bland food. This was not what I expected. You wait forever for tasteless food. No thank you. The staff is rude and not happy to see you. I will go to the Salvadoran Restaurant just down the road. Now that is good food! read more

I love, love, love this place. Food is always on point. Each table has a jar of the most spankin delicious herb seasoning that screams authenticity. The ladies that work here are so unbelievably efficient and extremely friendly, like family (that you actually like). Fresh, handmade corn tortillas and grilled jalepeños?!??! Um YEAH! Never, ever been disappointed here. read more

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Awesome authentic food, and great service! We visited during covid-19 times and were happy to find that there was plenty of space between tables and the staff was talking extra care to keep things safe. Our kids were over the moon at how good things tasted and are excited to come back! read more

Wow! That's all I can say, we'll not really, if you're looking for the most flavorful Mexican food this is the place. You start out with a couple of small bowls of marinated carrots and salsa. Their specialty is the Pork Carnitas and it is amazing. Super moist and tender to the point you don't need a knife to cut it. The fresh pico is really good and loaded with the marinated carrots. The vegetarian options are many and I love that the enchiladas are filled with either beans or potatoes with the meat option on the side. One member put our party had the chicken in the side, which was bone in pieces, moist and flavorful. If I didn't live out of town, this would be the family's GO-TO restaurant option. read more

Fantastic and authentic food with amazing flavors. The pork carnitas melted in your mouth! All the meats were prepared to perfection. Treat your taste buds adventure! Also, fantastic vegetarian and non-dairy options. read more

We stayed here on our way back from the great wolf lodge and I am so happy we decided to not eat in the resort! This place is authentic, food is freshly made, recipes are truly family recipes and you can taste it! Bast mexican food I've ever had in US!! Plus, the service is amazing. Fast and very kind and accommodating waitresses. If I could have given 10 stars, I would have! read more

Excelleni authentic food. Homemade tortillas and tamales. Actually everything sermed to be made there with family recipes. If you want nachos and a taco salad - go someplace else. If you want to try authentic family recipes and enjoy food that is prepared with care. You'll love this place. We'll be back! Would have posted a photo of our food...but we ate too fast! read more

Update: prices went up after the new year and it's pricey! The steak that came with one of the dishes was a dry piece of beef resembling beef jerky. Was it supposed to be like that? My 1st review was 5 stars: Nice little find. I come out to Centralia from Portland once a week for work and wanted to pick up some dinner. So I yelp'd ofcourse. Who I assume is the owner had told me the tamales had just come out so I ordered a pork tamale. A little too spicy for me, but my fiance loved it! And their homemade tortilla... Whoa so soft and chewy. I saved one to eat the next day and still delicious! The pozole is yummy too, I almost couldn't decide between that or menudo. But can't forget the pickled carrots... Mmmmmmm... Can't wait to stop by tomorrow an bring home some dinner. But check them out before they close for Xmas vacation because they won't be back til January! read more

La Tarasca - Sittin at the counter... - Mexican Near Me - Centralia, Washington

This place is amazing. My favorite restaurant by far, in WA state. This place is so good they could open it up down south and it would still thrive, & that's saying a lot. I highly recommend their pork. read more

This place is a little family run delight with easy access to the freeway. Everything is home made and authentic. Try the daily special, whatever it is. The chile verde is another of my go-tos. They don't serve chips, and only have corn tortillas. Beyond the food, the staff is extremely friendly, and the restaurant if cor fully decorated. If you're making the Seattle-Portland trip along I-5, this place is definitely worth a stop. read more

La Tarasca - Inside - Mexican Near Me - Centralia, Washington

For a style of Mexican that is unique and tasty this is the place to go! We have been eating here literally for years, since our kids were little and now they too are grown. If you don't have room for dessert, order the flan to go! read more

Good food is one thing but when you couple that with an exceedingly friendly/pleasant staff and a "5-star" is well deserved. This family operated Mexican restaurant serving authentic delights from South of the US border, I had the impression of sitting in their home kitchen with pleasant conversation being offered up along with the traditional and delightful dishes. Highly recommended. read more

The BEST mole anywhere north of Puebla. This family run restaurant is a treasure that you cannot miss if you're traveling along I-5. They don't serve chips and salsa because they're way too authentic for that trite convention. Home made tortillas, made with love and care. Everything that we've tried here is excellent. But for us, it's all about the mole. read more

Amazing authentic food and wonderful people here. An absolute must try if you are in the area.

Absolutely delicious authentic Mexican food. The mole is spectacular!! Definitely worth stopping for if you're n the area.

Some of the best and most authentic Mexican food I've had in the US. I had the Chile Colorado which came with rice, beans, and home made tortillas. The meat was tender and the flavors were amazing. Just the right amount of spicy. Finished with the flan for dessert which was very tasty. Service was friendly, fast, and attentive. I'll be back. read more

SET YOUR FACE ON FIRE ! The Chili Colorado is so spicy (and good) it will make you sweat! The Corriso Tacos are also muy excelente! My wife loves the Adobada Tacos. We live in Centralia and have eaten here for many years. It is family owned and operated. We have met grandma (she may still be cooking in the kitchen), Mom waits tables, grown daughters wait tables, grandkids have been there once or twice. The food is completely UN-like Taco Bell, Taco Time, or any other Mexican chain restaurant. Only 1 mile off I-5. Worth the drive! read more

Best authentic Mexican food hands down. Wait....I am not just saying best Mexican in Centralia. No. Not even best in Western Wa. I just moved back from Long Beach, Cali and this is the best Mexican I have had ever! I would compare it to eating in Mexico and even then, top 5 best spots! The carnitas are to die for, and I think most popular meal (?), and the tortillas are heavenly. I would drive miles just for those. I have been taking my family here for 15-16 years. When I lived in Olympia, I would drive down at least once a month. For a short time, my mother lived in Vancouver and I would stop EVERY TIME to pick up lunch/dinner for my mom and I. After recently moving back from California, I have the pleasure of living in Centralia (for a short time) and the best part, besides my sister having the #1 pizza place here, is my close proximity to La Terasca. If anyone remembers La Palmas Mexican Restaurant that was in South Sound Mall, when that was a thing in Lacey, the best waitress there (I want to say her name is Carla? But I remember her by face) is the granddaughter in this family. She and her sister wait tables, Grandma in the kitchen (although this info from years ago) but it is a family affair and the food is so awesome because this is generations of family recipes. Folks, it does not get more authentic or more delicious than La Terasca!! Anyone posting on here about their lack of chips and salsa should go to any other Mexican restaurant around. There are several that will seat you with chips and salsa but, as far as I know La Terasca is the only one that will seat you with fantastic pickled carrots. Delish! If you are really looking for a satisfying party for your palette, head to La Terasca and eat your heart out! You're Welcome. PS~ They are closed on Tuesday, I believe. read more

We discovered this restaurant about 12 years ago and deliberately plan trips heading south on I-5 around stopping here for a meal. The tamales, Chile Colorado, and Chile Verde are favorites, but we often try other things. Even the refritos are exceptional. No, there aren't chips and salsa and there shouldn't be- the cuisine is true to the Michocan heritage of the family. read more

What a gem! Driving through and stopped for gas with the family and ended up at this restaurant. Mercedes is the owner and she makes this a must stop if you are looking for a sit down meal. Highlights: homemade corn tortillas, carnitas, and staff. Downside: a little off the beaten path. read more

La Tarasca - Carnitas plate - Mexican Near Me - Centralia, Washington

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What a sweet old school restaurant! Delicious food super clean , and very attentive staff.

I only came here twice while living in Centralia and each time I really didn't enjoy it. The first time was more of an overall let down with the food and the second time was rude staff. This is not your typical Mexican restaurant. They do not serve chips and salsa at the table. Instead they serve pickled carrots. Their food is a much more traditional representation of Mexican cuisine. I tried one of their enchiladas and tamales and I just didn't enjoy the taste of either. I think I ate about half and left the rest. The second time we came was with some friends who were expecting the typical chips and salsa and asked about whether we could have some. The waitress nearly snapped our heads off for asking about that and said we don't do that here...if you want that go somewhere else. Well...so we did...right down the street. If you enjoy a more traditional aspect of Mexican food then this is the place for you. But don't expect the usual Americanized add-ons that we are used to. read more

Found it on Yelp, and glad that I did. Had a business lunch here & the hospitality and wonderful food made it a great meal. Greetings from the owner in a beautiful regional embroidery dress, pickled carrots and onions on the table - great with salsa - dishes from southwest Mexico, all at a fair price. I had Pozole soup and I'd go back for it tomorrow - wonderful chile laced broth with hominy, pork and cabbage. Skip the familiar and give it a try! read more

5 stars for the tortillas they were awesome but the rest just good/okay. I love carnitas but this does not rank high in my book. It was very bland I almost thought I was still eating leftover Thanksgiving turkey. The beans and rice were good. Service was very nice. Another plus is it was super fast so we were back on the road heading home. They did change out some lightbulbs so its not completely florescent, hooray. read more

Absolutely the best authentic Mexican food north of the border! Yummy! The tamales are sooooo good!

** #900 ** Wow -can't believe I'm only 100 away from 1000! I try to make all milestone reviews a place that I found thru Yelp. I've had this place bookmarked for a couple of years and finally got the chance to go here. Actually, it is my only bookmark between Olympia and Portland. Everything we had was great!! I love good authentic Mexican food and this place is one of the best I've ever eaten at. It was completely full on a Wednesday afternoon at 2pm.... My oldest ordered Moms special chicken (7.95) and she said it was the best chicken she's ever had - her and little one polished off 3 bowls of pickled carrots before our food even came. The kids tostado, horchata, tamale, adobada tacos and the house made tortillas were all to die for. Prices were great and we even got a to go order (and since my girls liked the carrots so much - they even surprised them with a small bowl full!). I spent close to $30 for a TON of incredible food. Will definitely stop here on my next roadtrip to Oregon! read more

(Cue theme music...) Truly a wonderful Mexican food experience. We found the servers and staff incredibly gracious, inviting, and enjoyable. We each ordered different items and were very pleased at the complex flavors of each dish- a chicken herb special, carnitas, mole tacos, chicken tamales, and chile poblano ... I didn't enjoy the pickled carrots... The are served with a deceptively spicy green sauce that will remove paint from carpeting... Be careful. The corn tortillas were like eating a pat of warm butter- delicious! The decor is a little busy and the place itself is a little throwback. Plenty of parking, local flavor, and good food! read more

We stopped by here on the way to Seattle because of the Yelp reviews. To be honest, I don't think the place is five stars, but the food is very good and it's certainly worth a four star rating. Mexico is a big place, and the food is regional. They make Chili Rellenos differently all over Mexico. The Chili Relleno at La Tarasca is fried in an egg batter, and served bare except for sour cream. I spooned on a heaping helping of their Chili Verde sauce, and man-o-man, I'm a happy camper. La Tarasca is nothing fancy, but the food is a couple of cuts above the typical Mexican restaurant fare. read more

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