La Tonalteca in Scranton, PA, is a vibrant and welcoming Mexican restaurant that has earned a loyal following thanks to its flavorful dishes, festive atmosphere, and diverse menu. Whether you’re craving sizzling fajitas, crispy chimichangas, or freshly made guacamole, the La Tonalteca Scranton PA menu offers something for every kind of diner. Visitors often return not only for the taste but also for the generous portions, colorful plating, and authentic flair. The menu is a reflection of traditional Mexican cuisine with a modern American twist, making it perfect for casual lunches, family dinners, or celebratory nights out.
Overview of the Menu
Appetizers to Start the Flavor Journey
The appetizer section of the La Tonalteca Scranton PA menu is packed with flavorful options that prepare the palate for a full meal. Guests can start with classic choices such as:
- Cheese Quesadillas Grilled to golden perfection, filled with melted cheese and served with a side of sour cream and guacamole.
- Nachos Supreme A generous plate of tortilla chips topped with ground beef, beans, melted cheese, jalapeños, tomatoes, sour cream, and guacamole.
- Fresh Guacamole Made tableside with ripe avocados, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and just the right amount of seasoning.
- Chicken Wings Offered in various spice levels, a great starter for those who want a twist of Mexican and American fusion.
These small plates are perfect for sharing and offer a great introduction to the rich flavors ahead.
Main Courses That Steal the Show
The heart of the La Tonalteca Scranton PA menu lies in its entrée options. From sizzling fajitas to savory enchiladas, each dish is crafted with attention to flavor and tradition. Some standout items include:
- Fajitas Available with chicken, steak, shrimp, or a combination. Served on a sizzling hot plate with onions and peppers, accompanied by rice, beans, tortillas, guacamole, and sour cream.
- Chimichangas Deep-fried flour tortillas stuffed with chicken or beef, topped with cheese sauce and served with rice and beans.
- Enchiladas Verdes Corn tortillas filled with chicken or cheese, covered in green tomatillo sauce and melted cheese.
- Carnitas Tender slow-cooked pork served with rice, beans, tortillas, and a side of pico de gallo.
Each dish arrives at the table with vivid presentation, hot and fresh, reflecting the pride the kitchen staff takes in every order.
Mexican Combination Platters
Build-Your-Own Combinations
One of the most appealing parts of the La Tonalteca Scranton PA menu is the combination section, which lets diners mix and match their favorite dishes into one plate. Options often include:
- Taco
- Enchilada
- Burrito
- Chalupa
- Chile Relleno
- Tamale
You can typically choose two or three items, along with a side of rice and beans. This option is ideal for guests who want to sample different tastes in one satisfying meal.
Vegetarian Platters
La Tonalteca is also vegetarian-friendly. The menu includes dedicated platters that cater to guests seeking meat-free options. Some popular vegetarian dishes include:
- Veggie Quesadilla Filled with grilled vegetables and melted cheese.
- Spinach Enchiladas Corn tortillas rolled with sautéed spinach and cheese, topped with sauce and served with rice.
- Vegetarian Fajitas A colorful mix of zucchini, onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes served sizzling hot.
These dishes do not sacrifice flavor and ensure that all guests, regardless of dietary preferences, can enjoy a fulfilling meal.
Seafood Specials
Fresh and Flavorful from the Sea
Seafood lovers will find plenty to enjoy on the La Tonalteca Scranton PA menu. The seafood section combines Mexican seasoning with fresh ingredients to create dishes like:
- Camarones a la Diabla Shrimp sautéed in a spicy red sauce, served with rice, beans, and tortillas.
- Fish Tacos Grilled or fried fish topped with cabbage slaw, creamy chipotle sauce, and served on soft corn tortillas.
- Seafood Enchiladas Rolled tortillas filled with shrimp and crab, covered with white cheese sauce.
These dishes are particularly popular among diners looking for something lighter without compromising on rich taste.
Kids’ Menu and Family-Friendly Choices
Meals for the Little Ones
La Tonalteca is a family-friendly restaurant, and the kids’ menu reflects that. The children’s offerings include simplified and familiar dishes like:
- Mini Burrito with rice
- Cheese Quesadilla with fries
- Chicken Nuggets with rice or fries
- Mini Taco Plate
The menu ensures that even the youngest diners feel included and satisfied with options tailored to their preferences.
Group-Friendly Portions
Many dishes on the menu are perfect for sharing, making La Tonalteca an excellent spot for group outings or family dinners. The combination platters and large appetizer samplers provide enough variety to satisfy multiple taste preferences in one meal.
Drink Options and Specials
Refreshing Beverages
No Mexican meal is complete without a refreshing drink to complement it. The La Tonalteca Scranton PA menu features a range of beverages, including:
- Traditional Mexican soft drinks
- Fresh horchata and tamarindo juice
- Sodas and iced tea
- Full-service margarita bar with fruit flavors
Happy hour specials are often available, and guests frequently enjoy sipping a margarita or cold beer with chips and salsa while waiting for their meals.
Customer Favorites and Signature Dishes
What Keeps Guests Coming Back
Regular visitors to La Tonalteca often mention a few standout dishes that keep them returning. These include:
- Steak Ranchero A spicy steak dish cooked with jalapeños and onions.
- Pollo Fundido Chicken wrapped in a tortilla, deep-fried, and topped with creamy cheese sauce.
- Mole Poblano Chicken breast covered in rich, dark mole sauce, served with rice and tortillas.
Each of these items reflects the balance of bold seasoning and comforting textures that Mexican food lovers crave.
Atmosphere and Dining Experience
Colorful and Inviting Ambiance
The dining room at La Tonalteca in Scranton is just as important as the food. Decorated with vibrant Mexican themes, hand-painted murals, and bright colors, the atmosphere adds to the experience. It feels like a celebration from the moment you walk in, and the staff is known for being friendly and attentive.
Takeout and Convenience
For those looking to enjoy their favorite dishes at home, the La Tonalteca Scranton PA menu is available for takeout. The meals are packaged carefully, and portions remain generous even for to-go orders. This makes it easy for busy individuals or families to enjoy quality Mexican food without dining in.
La Tonalteca in Scranton, PA, offers a comprehensive and satisfying menu that covers all the bases appetizers, entrees, seafood, vegetarian meals, kids’ options, and refreshing drinks. With its warm atmosphere and a menu rooted in authentic Mexican flavors, it’s no wonder this restaurant remains a local favorite. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, the La Tonalteca Scranton PA menu promises a flavorful and fulfilling dining experience that will have you coming back for more.