Other than a fabulous margarita, this is the one thing that makes a Tex-Mex spot a go-to destination. Sure, it's not exactly the most authentic Mexican experience you can have, but one chip dripping with cheese will have you forgetting that in no time.
Below are a few of the best bowls of queso around Atlanta.
Bone Garden Cantina
1425 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318; 404-418-907, https://bonegardencantina.com/
From the couple behind The Vortex comes a Mexican restaurant with just as much edge. The shrimp enchiladas and chicken empanadas with peanut sauce are mainstays at our table. But the real star is the queso peppered with tomatoes and jalapenos.
There’s even the option for chorizo if (and when) you want to take it up a notch.
El Mexicano
1341 Moreland Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30316; 404-622-3501
This delightfully divey spot on Moreland has captured the east side of Atlanta's queso-loving hearts. It's thick and buttery, and most definitely not friendly to diets. A slight spice is available with the option for pickled jalapenos.
One thing not optional is the salsa that comes along for the ride — deep red and smokey, you'll want to drink it.
Mr. Taco
Multiple locations, http://mrtacoatlanta.com/
Queso delivered straight to your front door? Yes, please.
If you live in Roswell or Alpharetta, you are in so much luck: Mr. Taco is crazy good and crazy cheap. And if you can bring yourself to actually leave the house in search of amazing Mexican fare, their buffet of fresh salsas and peppers will have you falling in love at first sight.
Nuevo Laredo
1495 Chattahoochee Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30318; 404-352-9009, www.nuevolaredocantina.com/
For decades these guys have been serving up queso and some amazing mole on their checkered red tables. What makes the queso so good? It’s classic, no-frills melted cheese.
The additional pickled jalapenos are optional, but we recommend not skipping them. The house salsa is fresh-tasting and chock full of cilantro. The chips are thick and bright yellow. Order a Cadillac margarita and just soak up the good times
The Original El Taco
1186 North Highland Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30306; 404-873-4656, http://eltaco-atlanta.com/
Nestled in Virginia-Highland, El Taco is great for families and couples alike. The queso royale is, in a word, happiness. It arrives in a skillet with chorizo, peppers and onions. Use the accompanying tortillas and chips for cheese dip nirvana.
Bonus: The huge parking lot behind it makes it a breeze to get to.
Taqueria Del Sol
Multiple locations, http://www.taqueriadelsol.com/
From the Westside to Cheshire Bridge to Decatur, Taqueria Del Sol is the go-to spot for Mexican fare for much of Atlanta. The lines may seem intimidating, but they move quickly and the queso at the end will be oh so worth it. Pair the melty and spicy cheese dip with the salsa trip for the ultimate patio day.
Superica
99 Krog St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307; 678-791-1310
Some dishes are giggle-worthy, they're so good. The queso fundido at Superica is one of those.
As one of the anchor restaurants of Krog Street Market, Superica is always packed. Order the queso and you’ll know why: Ford Fry’s new spot is made with broiled chihuahua, monterey and jack cheeses, served with warm tortillas and avocado salsa verde.
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