Atlanta locals whisper about a certain plate that turns first-timers into regulars: the chicken mole at Nuevo Laredo Cantina. Tucked along Chattahoochee Avenue, this neighborhood favorite pairs homestyle cooking with a lively cantina energy.
The mole steals the spotlight, but the experience—warm service, generous portions, and margaritas that mean business—seals the deal. If you’re hungry for a story your taste buds can believe, this is the place to start.
The Legend of the Chicken Mole
Word travels fast in West Midtown, and it often starts with a fork. Tender chicken arrives cloaked in mole that balances cacao warmth, gentle spice, and a whisper of sweetness. The sauce has depth—like toasted seeds, nuts, and peppers took their time to introduce themselves. Fans swear a bite feels both nostalgic and new.
Order it with rice and beans, then pace yourself. Portions run generous, and you’ll want leftovers. A squeeze of lime brightens everything, while warm tortillas invite DIY bites. This is comfort cooking with a capital C.
What Makes the Mole Sing
Great mole isn’t just sauce; it’s storytelling in a skillet. At Nuevo Laredo Cantina, layers unfold—smoky chile, nutty sesame, bittersweet chocolate, and savory depth. Each spoonful hints at toasting, grinding, and patient simmering. That’s why it’s balanced, not sugary, and why it lingers without feeling heavy.
Pro move: ask for extra tortillas to mop the plate. Add a side of pico for a bright pop. If you like heat, a few drops of house salsa brings a slow-building kick. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure that rarely disappoints.
Navigating the Wait Like a Regular
Busy nights happen here, and the line often means you picked correctly. Aim for early dinner on Fridays or slide in after the rush around 8 PM. Sunday afternoons are popular but manageable. While you wait, grab a spot outside on the brick steps and catch up with friends.
Call ahead for current quotes, but expect 20–40 minutes at peak. The team moves tables efficiently without rushing you. Once seated, order chips quickly—they disappear fast. It’s all part of the rhythm that keeps the room buzzing and plates moving.
Smart Pairings: Margaritas and More
Strong, cold, and unfussy—the house margarita is a classic companion for mole’s richness. A salt rim keeps the sweetness in check, and frozen pitchers make sharing easy. Beer drinkers find plenty of crisp options to reset the palate. For a lighter touch, ask for a skinny build with fresh lime.
Balance is the goal: sip, then savor a mole bite to appreciate the contrast. If spirits aren’t your thing, iced tea or a citrus soda cuts through like a charm. Keep water nearby; big flavors deserve a clean slate.
Starters That Set Up the Main Event
Chips hit the table warm, which is dangerous in the best way. The salsa pops with fresh tomato and chile, so try not to fill up. Queso is a crowd magnet; share a large if your group has range. Those saving room for mole should split appetizers to avoid food envy later.
Looking for variety? Add guacamole for texture and a cooling counterpoint. The trick is pacing—small bites, steady sips, then straight to the main attraction. Your future self will thank you when the mole arrives.
For the Table: Backup Favorites
It’s tough to ignore the hits. Steak fajitas arrive sizzling and aromatic, a solid sidekick to share alongside mole. Tacos Diablo bring heat for the spice-inclined, while chorizo tacos win on savory snap. Burritos and chimichangas come hefty—ideal for friends who like to split plates and compare bites.
Vegetarians have options too; many sauces are house-made and vibrant. Rotate a second entree so no one gets order envy. The point isn’t to outshine the mole—it’s to build a table that keeps the conversation going.
Value, Portions, and When to Go
Price ranges from about $10–$20, and the kitchen doesn’t skimp. Lunch hours are a sweet spot for faster seating and easy parking. Evenings carry more buzz, especially Fridays and Saturdays. If you plan a group night, arrive early or split into smaller parties to be seated quicker.
Leftovers are likely—ask for a container before you finish to keep tortillas from steaming. Sunday service stays friendly and steady, while Mondays are closed. A little planning turns a good meal into a seamless night out.
Plan Your Visit
Set your GPS to 1495 Chattahoochee Ave NW and look for on-site lots, plus overflow across the street. The dining room is casual, photo-lined, and always lively. Hours run Tuesday to Thursday 11 AM–9 PM, Friday and Saturday 11 AM–10 PM, Sunday 12–9 PM. Closed Mondays—worth remembering.
Call +1 404-352-9009 for updates or peek at nuevolaredocantina.com. Arrive hungry, leave happy, and save room for dessert if you can. The chicken mole may be the headline, but the hospitality is the lasting memory.