Last Updated on October 27, 2023 by Emma White
A tourist heaven in the state of Tennessee, Pigeon Forge is an exciting spot for a memorable vacation. From the breathtaking view of the Smoky Mountains to the myriad of enthralling experiences, the town is buzzing with fun and adventure. But that’s not all!
You can also enrich your experience by embarking on an exotic dining journey at Pigeon Forge. We recommend skipping the burgers and fried chicken and opting for an authentic Mexican experience for a truly memorable holiday – and why shouldn’t you? According to Statista, the US Mexican food industry has grown consistently since 2019 because of ravishing demand.
That said, if you are not well-versed in Mexican cuisine, it is useful to familiarize yourself with some dos and don’ts of ordering at a Mexican restaurant.
Read on as we take you through some of the most useful tips for ordering at a Mexican restaurant.
Top 5 Dos for your Mexican Food Adventure
Mexican food is not just about loading up on some nachos and sipping on margaritas. There’s a lot more.
Listed below are 5 dos that ensure you have an enriching experience in the Mexican restaurants at Pigeon Forge.
1. Begin with the Appetizers
Not sure which Mexican restaurant to pick in Pigeon Forge? Try the appetizers! It’s a great way to gauge the quality and service of a restaurant.
Begin with some nachos and salsa – simple appetizers that can give you an idea about the quality of the food. If you succeed at finding a good restaurant, you’ll be munching on fresh nacho chips with salsas made from scratch. This appetizing introduction hints at a high-quality meal ahead.
However, if you come across stale chips and store-bought salsa sauce, heading to a different restaurant would be a good idea.
2. Explore the Entire Menu
As you embark on your exciting holiday journey in Pigeon Forge, seize the chance to savor some fresh and authentic Mexican delights. Before making your choice, take a thorough look at the entire menu. Open up your taste buds to new experiences and sample something you’ve never tried before.
How about a tangy ceviche or a hearty pozole? You never know what you might discover!
3. Specify your Preferred Spice Level
One trait that makes Mexican food stand out is the heat. Jalapenos, Serrano peppers, habaneros, and other chili peppers infuse delicious Mexican food with its distinctive bold flavor. However, not everyone can handle the fiery heat. Specify your preference for your server to avoid the overwhelming spiciness.
4. Pair your Meal with Traditional Beverages
Enhance your Mexican dining experience by pairing your meal with traditional drinks. These beverages are not just accompaniments but an essential component of the Mexican cuisine.
Enjoy your spicy enchiladas with a creamy horchata – a sweet beverage made with rice flavored with cinnamon. Similarly, try a refreshing and tangy tamarind-based drink like Tamarindo.
Not sure about what to order? Let the server recommend their top beverages.
5. Finish off with a Sweet Mexican Indulgence
After a memorable main course experience, don’t leave the restaurant without treating yourself to a tempting Mexican dessert. Explore the sweet side of Mexico’s culinary traditions with crispy and sweet churros or a classic flan.
Don’t miss the opportunity to discover some delightful dessert options on the menu. It’s a delectable way to complete your authentic Mexican dining experience.
Top 3 Don’ts of Ordering Your Mexican Food
Avoid potentially awkward moments by keeping these “don’ts” in mind when ordering at a Mexican restaurant.
1. Don’t Rush your Order
Take your time to order your food for the best culinary experience. Instead of rushing to order the typical Mexican burritos or the same old quesadillas, ask the server for the night’s specials. That will help you discover unique and freshly prepared dishes or deals that might not be on the menu.
Moreover, if you are not sure about the fancy names on the menu, request your server to provide details. Find out the ingredients and the flavor profiles of a dish before ordering it. You will save yourself from unpleasant surprises.
2. Don’t Request for Excessive Modifications
You may request to customize your dish according to your preferences for the spice level or vegan variations. However, you will deprive yourself of an authentic Mexican experience if you ask for excessive modifications. At the same time, it may create a challenge in the kitchen to fulfill your special requirements, leading to a longer wait time for you.
We recommend that you keep it original and savor the traditional flavors.
3. Avoid Over-Ordering
Mexican food stands out for its hearty portion sizes and the tradition of sharing. Most dishes, such as sopes – thick tortillas topped with an assortment of fillings – can be shared with your dining partners. Similarly, meals like tacos are generously filled to the brim with savory meats, fresh veggies, and lip-smacking condiments, making them a satisfying option. The same goes for other Mexican main course items that fill you up and leave little room for overindulgence.
So, order wisely, and don’t go overboard with the number of dishes you select.
Final Thoughts
Eating at a Mexican restaurant is an adventure filled with exciting choices. To ensure a delightful experience and get the most value for your money, remember to follow the dos and don’ts of ordering. This way, you’ll create cherished memories to savor.
