Reviews Little Mexico

Your Father's Tex-Mex. Like much of Nebraska, Kearney has its share of good, authentic Mexican restaurants. Many have popped up in the past decade. Then there are the "old school" Tex-Mex places. Little Mexico is definitely Old School. It reminded me of the better Tex-Mex places I used to seek out in my youth, back in the 1980s. The atmosphere was probably quite attractive when the reataurant first opened, but is now rather dated, yet still colorful. There is a central bar, ringed by four good sized dining rooms. This is a large restaurant, seating well over 100 people.
Despite the fact that the restaurant has received very negative reviews and ratings on Urbanspoon/Zomato, I rather enjoyed my weekday lunch. And I noted that by 12:30 pm there were no empty tables to be had inside. That represented an awful lot of people happily choosing to dine here.
The menu is classic Tex-Mex: tacos, enchiladas, burritos and fajitas make up 90% of the offerings. Many combo plates are featured for those preferring to sample different items. There is no separate lunch menu, however a number of menu items come in both smaller and larger sizes. It seemed that many items are served a la carte, which means that you may end up spending more for your meal here than at other area Mexican places.
On the plus side of the ledger, I was promptly seated, and excellent complimentary chips and salsa were brought out. I was asked if I preferred mild or hot salsa. I opted for mild, but it wasn't wimpy on flavor. Likewise I loved the thin tortilla chips, which were as fresh as could be, and devoid of any noticeable grease.
My shredded pork enchilada was served a la carte, except for a covering of delicious, somewhat pungent enchilada sauce and cheese. It reminded me of the enchiladas I ate while growing up. I really liked it.
I also ordered a side of rice, and it came in a small bowl, accompanied by a tortilla. I must say I totally loved the rice, which had small bits of red and green peppers, onion and a smidge of refried beans mixed in. It had an intense, slightly smoky flavor, which was a nice contrast to the bland rice so often served at most other Mexican restaurants.
Now to the down side of the ledger. Prices are a bit higher here than at other restaurants around town. And though I couldn't quite put my finger on it, the restaurant has a somewhat distinctive, but not overpowering smell to it. I found it slightly annoying. It probably comes from the fact that it is an older restaurant, but who knows?
I found all of the help to be friendly and efficient. I was in and out in less than 40 minutes.
If you are craving Mexican seafood, head elsewhere. But if you enjoy revisiting Tex-Mex menus of 25 or 35 years ago, by all means try Little Mexico.
Food: B+
Atmosphere: B
Service: A-
Value: B

Very good chips and food is always consistently good. Alcoholic drinks can be on the weaker side, but taste great. Service can be hit and miss, but everywhere is like that anymore when you are hurting for staff. I recommend anything with the pork, very tender.

We've lately gotten our food from here as take-out and it is just as good an experience as dine-in. The flavor is very good, the portions are outstanding, and they build a good carry-out package. Our orders are always ready for pick-up when they say they will be and we have been pleased with them for a long time. We'll keep coming back!