Cinco de Mayo is a tradition and holiday celebrated in Mexico in commemoration of their army’s victory over France in the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Traditionally, it is celebrated with mariachi music, parades, and classic cuisine like tacos. In honor of this Mexican tradition, which consists of celebrating the army on the fifth of May every year, I celebrated by trying different chips and salsa at three Mexican restaurants. Here are my ranks in order from worst to best.
A chips-and-salsa comparison across three local restaurants found that atmosphere and branding do not always match what arrives at the table.
At Ancho and Agave in Village Pointe, the atmosphere felt “casual and inviting”, but the food fell short of the restaurant’s promise of being “simple, fresh, and flavorful.” The homemade chips earned a 6.5 out of 10 after tasting slightly burnt and leaving a flour-like aftertaste. The salsa, which also appeared to be homemade, scored an 8 out of 10. While it was solid, it lacked a standout quality. Overall, Ancho and Agave received a 7.5 on the chips-and-salsa scale, while online reviews give the restaurant a 7.2 out of 10.
Taco Bell, located in Shadow Lake Towne Center near 72nd and Highway 370, offered a different kind of performance. Though its chips and salsa did not have the homemade appeal of the other restaurants, the chain delivered in convenience, consistency, and flavor. The chips were warm, plain, and easy to pair with a variety of sauces, earning a 7.5 out of 10. The salsa, served in Taco Bell’s green avocado verde packet, was not fresh, but its flavor still impressed and earned an 8 out of 10 for its craveability and simplicity. Altogether, Taco Bell scored a 7.75 on the chips-and-salsa scale, compared with a 6.2 out of 10 from online reviewers.
Lil Burro on Capehart Road emerged as the strongest of the three. The family-owned Mexican restaurant, recognizable by the signature lil burro on the front of the building, delivered on its promise of “genuine Mexican meals.” Its homemade chips were warm and comforting, with a balanced flavor that was neither too salty nor too floury, earning a 9 out of 10. The salsa stood out even more. Made with a blend of vegetables and tomatoes, it earned a 10 out of 10 for both taste and freshness. According to the owner, the ingredients are grown in a garden behind the restaurant, where much of the produce for the kitchen is cultivated. With an overall score of 9.5 out of 10 on the chips-and-salsa scale and a 9-star review from online critics, Lil Burro ranked as the clear favorite in the comparison.
So, in celebration of Cinco de Mayo, I ranked Ancho and Agave third, Taco Bell second, and Lil Burro first on the chips and salsa scale.
