Mamacita’s: Asheville's Dixie-Mex Connection

A standard in downtown Asheville since it opened in 2004, Mamacita’s serves up Mexican cuisine fresh.  John Atwater, owner of Mamacita’s, proudly boasts using fresh local ingredients like many Asheville dining spots do.  It’s the way Asheville does food but uniquely call their brand of Mexican cuisine Dixie-Mex.  He has created an inviting experience in a convenient location sandwiched between the Orange Peel and Wicked Weed Brewing; they share the building that also houses Seven Sows Bourbon and Larder.

Talk to most Ashevillians and they will tell you that they either have eaten at Mamacita’s or are a regular at the popular Mexican ‘fast food’ joint.  It’s fast food only because they swiftly create your meal from fresh ingredients in front of you while you watch.  It’s probably a good thing that they make the food so fast for you since the aromas along with watching the staff make your meal causes your mouth to water by the time you walk the line and pay.

And forget about going away hungry!  This is one meal that won’t leave you craving a snack anytime soon.  The portions are as large as they are scrumptious – and mine was pretty scrumptious.  The menu isn’t massive but it has plenty of options for all; besides, you have some ingredient options as you walk along the line to make your meal exactly the way you want it.

On this particular visit, I ordered the Chicken Fajita Burrito ($7.99).  I asked for the wheat tortilla along with black beans, rice, chicken fajita fixings and of course some tantalizing guacamole (it made my day to have some good guac included).  Huge burrito and for the price, fantastic value.  I was hungry and didn’t realize until I polished off the entire burrito just exactly how hungry I was.  By the way, chips come with the meal and there are four choices of salsa at the salsa bar once you receive your meal at the counter.

Maybe the food is just that good.  The friends I was with commented on finishing their entire meal when they anticipated have leftovers!

It’s not unusual to see a line at the door, but don’t let that scare you off because the staff is terrific about keeping things moving.  This is another Asheville dining spot to add or keep on your must dine list.

Contact Information

Mamacita’s

(828) 255-8080

77 Biltmore Ave

Asheville, North Carolina 28801
http://mamacitasgrill.com/

Tweet