Cielito Lindo - Vonore

Coming from a CA town with 15 Mexican places to choose from, I was obviously skeptical about the one Mexican restaurant in Vonore. After going several times, it is safe to say Cielito Lindo fills the void. The curb appeal is unassuming being in a strip mall, but the inside is bright and colorful, reminiscent of an Old Town, San Diego restaurant. The salsa is chunky with a bit of heat. The meat (chicken, carnitas, beef, even shrimp) is well cooked and usually well seasoned. The sides look and taste pretty typical. I would avoid the white sauce, as it is way too thick and creamy to really be considered a queso, and usually overpowers whatever dish it's on. The service is hit or miss. You will either get a server who is extremely attentive or one who wants to usher you right out the door. Overall, not a bad place for no other nearby options.

The real deal in Mexican food! The carnitas tacos were amazing.. tender flavorful meat, grilled tortillas pico de Gallo, fresh avocado pickled jalapeño! The chicken arroyo special was fantastic.. the amount of moist chicken was amazing. Will try the molcajete next visit. Like a visit to Mexico City!

We went to Cielito Lindo in search of decent Mexican food in the region. We ordered five meals from the menu so we could try a variety. So good!! The steak rancheros was my least favorite, but the quesadilla... I didn't know a quesadilla could be so good. We also had the taquitos, chimichangas, shrimp cocktail, and horchata. They did not disappoint! The environment reminded me of a place you'd actually see in Mexico, lots of vibrant colors, and excellent service.

Food is ok, I've been there several times. The last visit the service was so bad we won't return. Server came to take a drink order and never returned to take an order for the meal, even after asking the hostess why she hadn't returned. Still nothing we left. Hostess comped us for the drinks because of the service. Too many other good places to eat that are better go elsewhere.

This was an unplanned visit as we were shopping next door. First impressions from the outside didn't appeal to me. It's a strip mall. However walking in, I was surprised and I felt welcomed into my culture. The Mexican decor you find brings the ambiance of Mexican food. I was not disappointed. I'm a former Californian with the pallet of Mexican food from San Diego, Chula Vista and Tijuana. Immediately served hot chips and salsa that were oh so good. I ordered the crunchy tacos known in Tennessee as the fried tacos. And to my surprise I got Rolled Tacos that I've been craving since I moved here. The refried beans and rice are just like my Mom use to make. Pair this up with a margarita and you've just had a great dining experience. Our server Eufronio was attentive and served us well. Price was excellent. We are coming back.