La Carreta

La Carreta

949 E Lincoln Ln, Gardner, KS 66030, United States

+1 913-884-7098

Mexican restaurant
(1695)
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About This Place

La Carreta is a vibrant Mexican restaurant located in the heart of Gardner, KS, at 949 E Lincoln Ln. Renowned for its authentic flavors and warm hospitality, this eatery offers a flavorful journey through Mexican cuisine that keeps locals and visitors coming back for more. Whether you're craving the hearty, sizzling goodness of their Special Fajita or the refreshing zest of a Mango Margarita, La Carreta serves dishes crafted with passion and a keen eye for detail.

The menu is a treasure trove of classic and specialty items that tantalize the senses. Highlights include the Tampico Trio Enchiladas, a harmonious blend of savory fillings wrapped in soft corn tortillas, each bite bursting with rich, comforting textures. The Super Nachos deliver a satisfying crunch layered with melted cheese, fresh toppings, and perfectly seasoned beef or chicken, making it an irresistible starter or a meal in itself. For those seeking an adventurous palate, the Camarones Con Chipotle—a creamy, smoky shrimp dish infused with mushrooms and bacon—is a standout specialty that speaks to the restaurant’s dedication to bold, authentic flavors.

Dining at La Carreta is more than just eating; it’s an experience filled with warmth and attentiveness. Customers often praise the inviting atmosphere that feels both lively and intimate. Despite bustling Sunday evening rushes, service remains swift and polished, ensuring every guest feels valued. For instance, one guest shared how their waitress Olivia’s politeness and readiness to assist elevated their entire dining experience, reminding us that exceptional service is part of the meal here.

The restaurant also caters to families, offering options like the Kid Crispy or Soft Taco, and balances indulgence with fresh, vibrant flavors such as those found in the Fajita Salad topped with guacamole and sour cream, or the Tilapia Fish Salad, a lighter choice that doesn't compromise on taste. La Carreta’s atmosphere perfectly complements these enticing dishes, creating a space where patrons can savor every bite accompanied by friendly smiles and attentive care.

Particularly notable are the customer reviews that sing praises for both food and service. One diner declared it “the best Mexican restaurant in town,” highlighting their memorable outdoor dining experience and exceptional service—“10/10 will come again.” Another described their fajitas as not just a meal but a sensation, with sizzling skillets that captivate not just the appetite but the heart, prompting a reconsideration of their life choices about where to eat.

From the freshly baked chips paired with flavorful salsa to indulgent desserts like Fried Ice Cream, every dish at La Carreta invites you to embrace the joy of Mexican cuisine in an atmosphere that feels like coming home. Whether you're in for a casual lunch or a festive dinner, La Carreta stands out as a truly authentic and heartfelt Mexican dining destination in Gardner.

For reservations or takeout inquiries, you can reach La Carreta at +1 913-884-7098. Get ready to dive into a delicious Mexican culinary adventure where every dish tells a story and every visit feels like a celebration.

Service options
Outdoor seating Delivery Takeaway Dine-in
Highlights
Fast service Great beer selection Great cocktails Serves local specialty
Popular for
Lunch Dinner Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Cocktails Coffee Comfort food Happy-hour drinks Happy-hour food Private dining room Quick bite Small plates Spirits Vegetarian options Wine
Dining options
Lunch Dinner Catering Dessert Seating Table service
Amenities
Bar on site Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy Trendy
Crowd
Groups Tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids Changing table(s) High chairs Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking Free parking lot Parking

Opening Hours

  • Monday
    11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Tuesday
    11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Wednesday
    11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Thursday
    11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Friday
    11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Saturday
    11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Sunday
    11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Map & Directions

Visitor Reviews

  • Summer Wimmer
    1 month ago

    Our waitress was Olivia and she’s one of the most polite and helpful ladies I’ve ever met! The other staff was very attentive too. Even though we stopped in during a Sunday evening dinner rush, the wait for our food was incredibly small! I was genuinely surprised! The mild salsa served with the chips as an appetizer was absolutely fantastic as well! If you’ve read my previous reviews, you know I’m not at all a spice person. This mild salsa has my Low Spice Tolerance Stamp of Approval! If you’re heading west out of Kansas City, this little restaurant is worth venturing off the beaten path!

  • Emily Lauren
    1 month ago

    We’ve eaten many times at this restaurant- both in-person and takeout. The service is exceptional. They are always willing to modify and provide to make customers happy without it ever seeming like an inconvenience. I wanted quesabirria, and though they didn’t have a direct menu option for that, they said they would be happy to make it for me. It was one of the best quesabirria orders I’ve ever had. I also love spicier than spicy (I’m talking Carolina Reapers and Ghost pepper spicy at times). They brought me a salsa that was exactly what I was craving. I can’t recommend this restaurant enough. My family and I will continue to give them our business for years to come!

  • Timothy Peal
    2 month ago

    I've eaten here many times and it's always enjoyable and tastes good. I ate outside and had fantastic service. They served me as if I was inside. My server tonight was Josias. 10/10 will come again. Hands down, the best Mexican restaurant in town.

  • Rebecca C
    2 month ago

    If these fajitas had a fan club, I’d be the president, treasurer, and guy handing out free samples in a sombrero. La Carreta didn’t just serve fajitas—they served feelings. The skillet came out sizzling louder than my Spotify playlist, and I’m pretty sure the steam alone cleared my pores. One bite and I started rethinking my life choices, like why I haven’t been eating here every day since birth. The steak was so tender it practically whispered sweet nothings to my taste buds, and the peppers were cooked to perfection—not too crunchy, not too soft, like they were raised by a five-star chef and a therapist. Anyway, 10/10. Will return. Might propose to the fajitas.

  • Elaine Shannon
    3 month ago

    Delicious food and cheerful service. My family always enjoys coming here. The chips are often freshly baked and the chimichangas are excellent!

  • Chad Motter
    3 month ago

    Great Mezican restaurant of Gardner. Food and service were on point. They always do a great job. Most of the server staff is fun and will joke around. 2nd time - The service is absolutely wonderful. The food is also great. Always hot when they are brought to us.

  • E Finn
    4 month ago

    Everything was wonderful. Clean, plenty of parking, friendly service, great portions of food. Homemade salsa! This vegetarian girl loved the grilled fajita. Even frosted glasses for the beer. Thank you Manny for a surprisingly perfect meal.

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