Nacho Libre in Ooltewah: Playful Vibes, Authentic Flavors, and Top-Notch Tacos Just Outside Chattanooga
If you’re the kind of diner who loves a little personality with your meal, Nacho Libre in Ooltewah should be at the top of your list. Just a short 15-minute drive from Chattanooga, this locally-owned Mexican spot brings the energy of lucha libre wrestling into a fun setting filled with vibrant murals, fresh flavors, and a menu that surprises in the best way. Whether you're a taco regular, margarita enthusiast, or just curious to try something new, Nacho Libre strikes a balance between bold theming and genuinely good food.
The Experience
From the moment you pull up to Nacho Libre on Apison Pike, you can tell this place isn’t trying to blend in. Inside, the walls pop with character thanks to original artwork-including a colorful vinyl mural created by an Ecuadorian artist—and a display of replica lucha libre wrestling masks that immediately sets the tone. It’s playful, but not gimmicky, making it a hit for date night, group dinners, or even a casual solo outing.
Though newly opened in September 2024, the restaurant already feels welcoming and lived-in, thanks to the warmth of its owners and staff. It's owned by a local couple who wanted to create an experience that feels more like Mexico and less like a run-of-the-mill Tex-Mex chain.
Now, onto the food. The tacos are a standout-they come out fresh, vibrant, and full of texture. The shrimp tacos in particular hit that perfect balance of grilled flavor and freshness, but their mix-and-match menu means you can sample several different fillings without overcommitting. Salsas are made fresh daily, and that care in prep shows in every bite.
On the drinks side, expect house-squeezed lime juice, made-daily guava syrup, and fun cocktails named after famous wrestlers. We tried the Ric Flair and El Santo—both flavorful, balanced, and perfect for pairing with the salty, spicy goodness of taco night.
What to Know Before You Go
Location:Nacho Libre
8206 Apison Pike
Ooltewah, TN 37363
Hours:
11am- 8pm tuesday-Friday
12pm- 8pm weekends
CLOSE Monday
Parking:
Free lot parking is available in front of the restaurant, usually easy to find a spot without much trouble.
Pricing:
Tacos are affordably priced, especially during specials. Most entrées and drinks seem to hover in the casual dinner range—perfect for a night out without breaking the bank.
No reservation is typically needed, and right now it's flying under the radar so waits are minimal.
Deals to Keep in Mind
Nacho Libre keeps the weekly promotions rolling with themed food and drink specials:
- Taco Tuesday: Mix & match tacos for $3.50 each
- Margarita Wednesday: $7 margaritas
- Daily Happy Hour: $7 margaritas + $3 beers
- Thursday Special: Tortas + fountain drink for $10.99
These offers make it especially worth visiting mid-week, and they rotate in some seasonal or holiday specials as well throughout the year.
Extra Tips and Bonuses
If you're someone who likes a meal with a photo-friendly vibe, this place checks the boxes. The mural art, colorful plating, and wrestler-themed décor make it a great spot to snap a few pics.
Visiting for a birthday or group dinner? Let the staff know—they're great about adding a little flair to the experience.
Make it a night out by pairing your meal with a nearby stop—try Wired Coffee Bar or 1885 Grill in nearby Cambridge Square for a stroll or post-dinner espresso.
Final Thoughts
Nacho Libre in Ooltewah is the kind of place you tell your friends about the next day—not because it’s flashy, but because it’s fun, refreshingly different, and delivering food that stands on its own. Whether you’re local to Chattanooga or just exploring restaurants around the area, it’s a great pick for all kinds of diners: families, date nights, or anyone out to enjoy tacos and a drink in a laid-back, memorable setting.
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