• Banner 1
  • Banner 2
  • Banner 3

Welcome to Lala's Cafe

Founded over 70 years ago in Oilton, Texas, Lala's Cafe stands as a cherished South Texas institution. This humble shack may lack the frills of upscale dining, but its authentic, made-from-scratch Mexican cuisine speaks volumes. Renowned for its crispy beef tacos and homemade corn tortillas, Lala's delights patrons with flavors that resonate deeply. Visitors drive from afar, driven by word-of-mouth acclaim and features on the Texas Bucket List. Each bite encapsulates the cafe's rich history and dedication to quality, leaving diners with a sense of warmth and nostalgia. Experiencing Lala's is not just a meal; it's a cherished tradition.

LOCATIONS

Welcome to Lala's Cafe, a cherished gem nestled at 602 Main St, Oilton, TX. With a history spanning nearly 70 years, this quaint establishment has become a beloved institution in South Texas, attracting both locals and visitors alike seeking authentic Mexican cuisine. Don't be misled by its modest exterior; inside this little shack, you'll find big flavor that has fans raving.

What sets Lala's Cafe apart is its commitment to quality and tradition. As noted by long-time patrons, the food is made from scratch, capturing the essence of homemade Mexican fare. The renowned crispy beef tacos are not just a menu item; they are celebrated culinary creations, often described as "to die for." A highlight from Dale Jones, a seasoned customer, articulates it perfectly: “The food knocks it out of the park. Easily the best tacos I’ve ever had.”

  • Homemade Tortillas: The corn tortillas are crafted with care, ensuring freshness and lent perfect texture, leading to tacos that are light and puffy, never soggy or difficult to handle.
  • Flavorful Salsa: The green salsa, lauded by patrons such as Joseph Wattigney, has earned a reputation for being the best in the region, adding a delightful kick to every dish.
  • A Taste of History: Beyond the food, Lala's Cafe embodies a sense of history and community. With customers traveling from distant cities solely for a taste of its offerings, this café stands as a testament to the power of great food bringing people together.
  • Consistent Quality: Customers like Edward Pettijohn have noted the cleanliness and ordered nature of the establishment, reflecting the pride and dedication of its staff towards delivering an exceptional dining experience.

Lala's Cafe isn't just about the food; it’s an experience—a trip down memory lane for some, and a culinary revelation for others. As you step through its doors, you're not just a customer; you're part of a long-standing tradition. Both Keith George, who reminisced about dining there in 1979, and Michelle M, who drove from afar upon its mention on Texas Bucket List, can attest to the enduring charm and allure of this special spot.

If you find yourself in the vicinity, make sure to stop by Lala's Cafe. Here, every dish served is a chapter in the story of South Texas cuisine—a narrative that continues to evolve and delight, one taco at a time.

START YOUR REVIEW OF Lala's Cafe
Dale Jones
Dale Jones

The food knocks it out of the park. Easily the best tacos I've ever had. The cafe has been there for about 70 years and is a South Texas institution. It's just a little shack, so don't expect a fancy restaurant. Highly recommend.

Keith George
Keith George

I ate here a couple if times in 1979 when I was working as a field geophysicist south of Mirando City. We would drive out from Laredo for dinner. The food and service was fantastic back then.

Michelle M
Michelle M

Shown on Texas Bucket list so my dad & I drove from the valley to come check it out and let me say the food was delicious

joseph wattigney
joseph wattigney

Lala's has the best green salsa ever the best mexican food also. a south texas institution

Edward Pettijohn
Edward Pettijohn

The lunch was very good as everything is made from scratch. The crispy beef tacos are to die for. It was my first time in there and my friend gave me a tour of the restaurant as well as the kitchen. Everything was very clean and orderly. I drove from Corpus Christi for this excellent lunch. Oh it is a historic marker also.

Laura
Laura

Lala's serves the most delicious Mexican food. I have been eating at Lala's for over 40 years. No other Mexican restaurant can come close. The corn tortillas are homemade. The tacos are puffy. They are light, perfectly fried and not thick with too much masa. They are not soggy nor fall apart when eating. The chalupa is perfect. I love every dish served at Lala's. Lala's is located in Miranda City, TX. It's a very small community of about 366 residents. Their customers drive from other cities just to eat this fabulous food.

DelRob Rmz
DelRob Rmz

Food was delicious... as ALWAYS! Great taste, great portions, great service and great price!!! Going back real soon!!!!!

C Monz
C Monz

You feel the history of this place, food is made to order so it's fresh, stopped after seeing it on Texas Bucket list and was glad I did. Very well served plate.