La Bamba Mexican Restaurant

La Bamba Mexican Restaurant

11760 Donner Pass Rd, Truckee, CA 96161, United States

+1 530-587-3516

Mexican restaurant
(251)
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About This Place

Located in the heart of Truckee, California, La Bamba Mexican Restaurant is a beloved local gem that delivers an authentic, flavorful Mexican dining experience. From the moment you step inside this family-owned eatery at 11760 Donner Pass Rd, you are greeted with the warm spirit of genuine hospitality that complements the mouthwatering cuisine.

The menu at La Bamba boasts an impressive variety of traditional Mexican dishes, crafted with care and seasoned to perfection. Signature highlights include the tender and richly marinated Carne Asada a La Tampiquena, a succulent New York steak charbroiled and served with guacamole, sour cream, and green onions, igniting your palate with smoky, savory notes. For seafood lovers, the Camarones al Mojo de Ajo offers shrimp sauteed with fragrant garlic, fresh cilantro, and green onions, delivering a delicate yet bold flavor that's simply irresistible.

Appetizers like crispy Tortilla Chips paired with house-made Salsa and creamy Guacamole set the tone, while comfort classics such as Mole Enchiladas and the hearty Burrito Plate bring authentic homestyle tastes to every table. Don’t miss the Alfonso’s Special, a generous sampler featuring a flauta, enchilada, chile relleno, tamale, and tinga tostada, perfect for those wanting a bit of everything.

Dining at La Bamba is more than just a meal—it’s an experience infused with warmth and care. Guests often remark on the welcoming atmosphere fostered by the family that runs the restaurant. Pilar, the kitchen maestro, crafts each dish with heartfelt dedication, and her mother Carmen’s friendly greetings create a genuine sense of community. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a satisfying meal, La Bamba’s attentive staff adds a personal touch that makes every visit memorable.

Customer reviews solidify La Bamba’s reputation as Truckee’s go-to spot for authentic Mexican food. One diner shared, “Much more authentic than Chipotle,” praising the variety of enchiladas and overall great experience despite minor inattentiveness from staff. Another highlighted the generous portions, saying Alfonso’s Special was so huge they could only eat half! Patrons also rave about the house cocktails mixed by the talented brother-sister bartending duo, Christian and Zerenea, which perfectly complement the flavors on the plate.

For dessert lovers, the Fried Ice Cream and Sundaes provide a sweet finish that lingers on the tongue, pairing beautifully with a glass of wine or a classic Jarrito soda.

In short, La Bamba Mexican Restaurant offers a true taste of Mexico right in Truckee, paired with a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere that leaves you feeling nourished and welcomed. Whether you're a long-time fan or a first-time guest, expect bold flavors, hearty portions, and heartfelt service that make every meal here an occasion to remember.

Service options
Takeaway Dine-in Delivery
Highlights
Fast service Fireplace Great beer selection Great cocktails Sport
Popular for
Lunch Dinner Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Cocktails Coffee Comfort food Happy-hour drinks Happy-hour food Quick bite Small plates Spirits Vegetarian options Wine
Dining options
Lunch Dinner Counter service Dessert Seating Table service
Amenities
Bar on site Toilet Wi-Fi Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy
Crowd
Family friendly Groups Tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids High chairs Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking Free parking lot Parking

Opening Hours

  • Monday
    Closed
  • Tuesday
    04:00 PM - 08:30 PM
  • Wednesday
    04:00 PM - 08:30 PM
  • Thursday
    04:00 PM - 08:30 PM
  • Friday
    04:00 PM - 08:30 PM
  • Saturday
    04:00 PM - 08:30 PM
  • Sunday
    04:00 PM - 08:30 PM

Map & Directions

Visitor Reviews

  • Lucas Chang
    2 month ago

    Much more authentic than chipotle. The food was good I had the enchilada, my friend had enchiladas, my other friend had the chicken enchilada, my other friend had the steak enchiladas. My other friend also happened to order an enchilada. The waiters were a little inattentive at times, but we got a lot of water refills. Overall a great experience!

  • BigBadDaddy Bob
    2 month ago

    Good food friendly staff. The dinners could be a tad larger I was regretting not ordering a 3rd dinner, I had the number 10 and number 19 both tasty but small. Other than portion size everything else was perfect.

  • Skippy Malpractice
    2 month ago

    The team was so amazing. Went up there for my mom’s birthday. They made it spectacular. The food was great, and the chips and salsa were fantastic.

  • Lynda
    3 month ago

    I remembered this place from when I lived there 15 years ago so my husband and I stopped in. It was amazing! The best jalapeno poppers we've ever had! I got Alfonso's Special and it was huge!!! I was only able to eat half of it! My husband for a pork dish that he said was perfect!! We were so full and happy when we left! We ordered flan to go and it was so good!! The waiter was very kind and attentive, even while he was serving other tables and the chip and water kid was on his game!!! My husband ordered a margarita and said it tasted great as well!! Very satisfied and worth every penny!!! Also beautiful decor and we loved the atmosphere!!!! Thank you!!

  • Gayline Clifford
    3 month ago

    Family owned and ran. Pilar is the best cook!! Her mom (Carmen) is the nicest lady who greets everyone as if they are family! And always has a smile on her face! The bar tenders (brother/sister duo) Christian and Zerenea are the bomb! They whip up some mean cocktails! Veronica is cool and held out when needed and Frank is always a cool guy and good waiter!! Best Mexican food in Truckee!

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