Salsa Mexican Bistro

Salsa Mexican Bistro

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+44 1768 868666+ Add website
Hours
Sun
17:00 - 21:00
Mon
17:00 - 21:00
Tue
17:00 - 21:00
Wed
17:00 - 21:00
Thu
0:00 - 23:59
Fri
17:00 - 21:00
Sat
17:00 - 21:00
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What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Ratings and reviews
4.0
4.0 of 5 bubbles

RATINGS
Food
4.1 of 5 bubbles
Service
4.2 of 5 bubbles
Value
3.9 of 5 bubbles
Atmosphere
3.7 of 5 bubbles
Is this restaurant good for breakfast?
CUISINES
Mexican
Special Diets
Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner, After-hours, Drinks
FEATURES
Takeout, Reservations, Seating, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, American Express, Mastercard, Free Wifi, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service
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4.0
4.0 of 5 bubbles320 reviews
Excellent
181
Very good
74
Average
31
Poor
14
Terrible
20

kgorman1999
Northampton197 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2025 couples
Me and my partner visited on a Wednesday night whilst in the area. We pre-booked, however this wasn’t necessary as there was only us and another couple in the restaurant. Despite the restaurant being empty, the food was nice and came out in a timely manner. The staff were also friendly. We felt the restaurant was a little expensive with fajitas being around £17. Overall, we would recommend the restaurant and would return if in the area.
Written 31 January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Mya C
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2021 none
Me and my boyfriend come here almost weekly for our date night, we absolutely love it every time! The staff are so friendly and approachable, nothing is ever too much trouble for them. I always have the beef tacos and quesadillas, my plate is cleared every single time which doesn't happen often for me. All the small touches make the experience so much more enjoyable such as serving nice cold water in old mexican tequila bottles, it is much appreciated after a spicy meal haha! It can be a little pricey (usually £50/£60 for 2 courses for 2 people and a drink) but it is well worth it for the quality of food and service. I couldn't fault this place and every time I leave I look forward to going straight back again. Thank you to the team for making it a lovely experience!
Written 31 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

ThoseVeganCuties
Edinburgh148 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Nov 2021 couples
We stopped off here and got a takeaway. The staff were welcoming and helpful, the food was made fresh and it was tasty and offered fantastic vegan options (lots of veg options rather than lots of meat substitutes). We got a bunch of things and shared it like tapas. The only criticism would be it was a tad dry (could have used some salsa & vegan soured cream) and pricey (no discount for taking away) but would still return however we would choose to sit in as it had a lovely vibe inside.
Written 1 November 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Reanna J
3 contributions
1.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2024 family
Never in my life have I had a worse experience at a restaurant. There was one member of staff who was okay and polite, the rest were absolutely awful, rude and hostile. We had been turned away the day before for an ‘issue in the kitchen’ but I do not believe this to be the truth for a second as when we went back the next day we were made to feel equally as unwelcome and they did not even want to serve us. The worst hospitality staff I’ve ever been served by. Being given dirty looks when we’re ordering or sat at the table, plates being clattered onto the table, did not come over to check how food was or really at all when they didn’t absolutely have to. We were supposed to get a shot of tequila with our food but I could not even bare to ask the rude and unwelcoming staff. We just wanted to get out as to be honest I was absolutely livid. We had to approach the staff behind the bar to ask for the bill which was also clattered on the table to the point where the bill fell on the floor. Didn’t tip as it was not at all deserved and we got dirty looks on the way out. Average food, the only reason we came back after not being able to the day prior was because it looked as though it would be a nice place to go- absolutely not would not recommend the place to anyone. I would recommend some intensive customer service training for this team of staff as the several that served us were horrendous- I’ve worked in hospitality for years and I know it’s a stressful job- absolutely no need to treat customers like they’re not welcome. Made us feel so uncomfortable and as I said came out absolutely livid. Do not go here!!!
Written 19 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

G C
Cheshire67 contributions
1.0 of 5 bubbles
Apr 2024 family
We walked in and asked if dogs were allowed and was told yes they were. We sat down, ordered drinks and when the waitress came over to take our order, she looked at our 1.2kg chihuahua who was fast asleep and quiet as a mouse and said sorry we don’t allow dogs and asked us to leave. I could understand if he was huge, misbehaving but he was literally and would have been no trouble at all. The restaurant missed out on at least £120 from us as well as embarrassing us in front of other customers. Absolutely shocking attitude from the waitress and I do NOT recommend if you want somewhere friendly to eat. Most restaurants in the lakes allow dogs because of the area. Maybe they should set up business elsewhere.
Written 11 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Bobcholmes
Penrith162 contributions
1.0 of 5 bubbles
Sept 2021 couples
I rated the restaurant low, as service wasn’t great. The food was disappointing as an example the lump of beef served as part of the rib combo was so tuff I couldn’t eat it and the BBQ sauce was like dishwater. The starters looked nice but not very big. The tables were also sticky . Finally, the staff did nothing to stop one dinner vaping at the table whilst other people were eating….. Really CAN NOT recommend this restaurant !!
Written 27 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Zak Slater
2 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2025 couples
I ordered a pick up for me and my girlfriend as we couldn't be bothered to cook. We ordered the rack of ribs with cheesy wedges as a side and some cheesy nachos and chicken drumsticks we were happily surprised at the impressive size ofnthe portions. the food tasted bloody wonderful. just want to thank the cooks and the lovely friendly service of Shaniah and Jess. Wonderful experience
Written 13 January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Hollyxox
12 contributions
1.0 of 5 bubbles
Jun 2021 couples
We should have left as soon as we sat down as the tables and chairs were so sticky and had clearly not been cleaned down properly. The food was very poor and to be honest bland and tasteless. The food arrived no longer than 5 minutes after ordering - fair enough if this was fast food but disappointing when you are paying decent money for it (£60 for two) - everything was just just pre-made and microwaved to death. Do not waste your money!!!
Written 10 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Steve Stables
Hi There, Firstly we are so sorry that we did not meet your expectations for your visit with us. We strive at Salsa to make everyones dining experience fun and enjoyable. However if I may I would like to take this opportunity to answer a couple of the points you have made in your review. Firstly for the point about the sticky tables we have noticed that the disinfectant we use which is called the Cleenol Evolution surface cleaner can sometimes leave a slightly sticky residue to some but not all of our wooden tables. This disinfectant conforms to BS EN 1276 which means it is both food safe and disinfects to the required standard which during the present time we are all living in is so important. On top of that after the first lockdown we purchased a fogging machine which blasts disinfectant over the whole restaurant which we do a couple of times a week to minimise the threat of a covid outbreak at Salsa. We take the cleanliness of the whole restaurant extremely seriously and retained our 5 star hygiene rating from Environmental Health after our inspection which took place in December 2020. As we have been forced to close for the four and a half months since then in real terms the inspection took place a month and a half ago. In regards to the point about the speed of the food that you received that you claimed was "microwaved to death" I have one word that you may not have heard of but may explain the speed RATIONAL. In May 2020 during the first lockdown We invested £6,500 on a Rational 6 grid SCC Combi oven. This uses a combination of heat steam and airflow to help cook our dishes either overnight in the case of the brisket we use for the chilli beef or ribs, to cooking our chickens for the chilli chickens in around 45 minutes maintaining upto 25% moisture retention compared to traditional oven cooking. During service we have the rational set up to an optimum heat/moisture ratio so as to be able to cook things like Nachos in 54 seconds to cooking enchiladas in 5 minutes. This machine uses NO MICROWAVE TECHNOLOGY WHATSOEVER and is actually leading to a decline in microwave sales to the catering industry as it cooks food at a similar speed to a microwave without drying it out so maintaining the quality of the food. In regards to your point about the food being bland and tasteless that is totally your opinion which I respect. I do though wish you had told one of the team while you were having your meal and we could have tried our upmost to offer you something else. Since seeing this review yesterday I have investigated it with all the Salsa team that were waiting on over the previous few days and no one can recall anybody having any issues with the quality or flavourings of the food. If I may, in future whichever restaurants you visit where the food quality is not up to your satisfaction then if you mention this to the restaurant then I'm sure they will try their hardest to rectify the situation or take the criticism on board and use it for improvement. In this case I am going to see if there are alternative disinfectants that do not react so much to our wooden tables as we use the same disinfectants in three other restaurants I am involved with and which we have used since the reopening after lockdown 1. In regards to the speed and quality of the food though I can only see an improvement from where we were a year ago since the purchase of the Rational. From general feedback from customers and indeed from tripadvisor reviews this seems to also be the case so perhaps Salsa Mexican Bistro is not for you. Kind regards Steve (owner of Salsa Mexican Bistro)
Written 12 June 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Paul P
Belthorn19 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2022 none
We were staying at the North Lakes Hotel and looking for somewhere to have an evening meal. We booked this restaurant and hoped for the best. We weren't disappointed. The ribs are so delicious, we got an extra portion. One of the draught beers was Session IPA by Fell which was delicious. The sharing platter comes with tequilla shots which warmed us up after getting rained on walking there. The kids enjoyed their meals and polished off an extra bowl of nachos. Staff very friendly too. But those ribs..........
Written 27 October 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Andrew W
Glaston49 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jul 2024 friends
What a find! Fantastic atmosphere, amazing staff; nothing was too much trouble. The food was absolutely bang on, not too spicy and really tasty. Good range of dishes to satisfy omnivores and vegetarians. Particulary impressed with the sharing platter starter with tequila shots - loads of food! Didn't get to try desserts as we were all too stuffed! Can't wait to return the next time we're in Penrith.
Written 7 July 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Shortbreaker66
25 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2021 family
We visited Salsa last night and were very pleased with the food, the service and the price of the cocktails! (most are £4.50 between 5pm and 11pm on Fridays). We had fajitas, which came with plenty of sour cream, salsa and guacamole, and chicken suiza, which I haven't had anywhere before and was also very good. There is a choice of sides, one of which comes as standard with the main courses (wedges, baked potato, rice, salad etc.) and portions were a decent size. The restaurant was full when we visited and all of our fellow diners seemed more than happy with their meals too. Good for families, couples and groups of friends.
Written 13 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

ohashihana2
15 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jun 2023 family
Really friendly staff, nice location overlooking the Main Street, and lots to choose from on the menu. The salad with the mains was a nice touch too (but avoid eating the chilli on its own, I think I’m still recovering from the spice!).
Written 14 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

amanda J
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jun 2024 family
Fun, relaxed atmosphere. Nothing was too much. Lots of unexpected side dishes including mixed olives, combination of hand cut sweet potato chips/chips. Chilli poppers/mini quesadillas/spicy chicken drumsticks . Mains inc, usual Fajitas and burritos were spot on. Great service
Written 30 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

sim0nkate
Oxford3 contributions
2.0 of 5 bubbles
Jun 2021 friends
Disappointing meal at Salsa. The speciality tacos were certainly unique (and inedible) as pictured and the fajitas arrived on an iron dish but without a sizzle in sight! On the up side the squid and prawn starters were tasty, the Shiraz very drinkable and staff dealt professionally with our feedback and reduced the price of our meal. Sorry Salsa…there might be a reason your customers were all tourists?
Written 30 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

simon
Appleby-in-Westmorland9 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
May 2022 couples
Have been wanting to go here for a long time but Covid and life got in the way. The staff were great the restaurant was nice. The food was ok I was expecting more flavour (this may be personal taste). I do like a lot of heat and asked for some chilli sauce and was offered some very poor choices. I would recommend getting some nice Mexican chilli sauces to offer customers who want some extra flavour and heat. My favourite food was the chilli bites and the blue corn tacos.
Written 25 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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SALSA MEXICAN BISTRO, Penrith - Updated 2025 Restaurant Reviews, Photos & Phone Number - Tripadvisor

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