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5 Secrets Of La Carreta Summersville WV: Why This Mexican Restaurant Is A New River Gorge Legend

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Planning a trip to the New River Gorge National Park? Your adventure is not complete until you experience the vibrant flavors of La Carreta Mexican Restaurant in Summersville, West Virginia. This local institution, a staple of the Nicholas County dining scene for decades, is more than just a place to eat; it's a culinary landmark for both residents and the thousands of tourists who flock to the area for whitewater rafting, hiking, and rock climbing.

As of late 2025, La Carreta continues to be the definitive choice for authentic Mexican cuisine, offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a menu packed with traditional favorites and signature specialties. Its prime location on Merchants Walk makes it the perfect stop after a long day exploring Summersville Lake or the New River Gorge, guaranteeing a quick, delicious, and affordable sit-down meal that consistently earns high marks from diners.

La Carreta Summersville WV: Essential Visitor Information (2025 Update)

To help you plan your visit, here is the complete and most current profile for La Carreta Mexican Restaurant, ensuring you have all the details needed for a seamless dining experience in the heart of West Virginia.

  • Full Name: La Carreta Mexican Restaurant
  • Primary Address: 205 Merchants Walk, Summersville, WV 26651
  • Established: The business trade name was established in 1997, giving it a long history in Summersville.
  • Cuisine Type: Authentic Mexican Cuisine
  • Operating Hours (Current 2025):
    • Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM
    • Friday – Saturday: 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM
  • Seating Capacity: Features a large dining area with a capacity of approximately 160 people, accommodating large groups and families.
  • Bar Service: A complete bar is available, specializing in handcrafted margaritas and other classic cocktails.
  • Payment: Major credit cards are accepted.
  • Local Landmark Proximity: Located minutes from the Summersville Lake and a short drive from the New River Gorge National Park entrance.

The 5 Unmissable Culinary Secrets of La Carreta’s Menu

While the menu is extensive, featuring everything from classic tacos to enchiladas, certain dishes and drinks have achieved legendary status among locals and repeat visitors. These five items are the secrets to truly experiencing the best of La Carreta’s authentic Mexican flavors.

1. The Legendary Raspberry Margarita (The Must-Order Drink)

Forget the standard lime—La Carreta’s true claim to fame in the drink department is its Raspberry Margarita. Customer reviews frequently single this out as the best margarita they have ever had, making it a highly praised specialty of the house. The blend of premium tequila with the sweet and tart raspberry flavor offers a refreshing and potent complement to the spicy, savory Mexican food. It's the perfect way to unwind after a day of outdoor adventure on the Gauley River or exploring the Fayette County trails.

2. The Sizzling Fajitas & Al Pastor (The Entrée Powerhouses)

For a truly theatrical and flavorful dining experience, the sizzling fajitas are the undisputed champion. Served hot on a cast-iron skillet, the aroma alone is enough to turn heads. Whether you choose the classic chicken, steak, or a combination, the generous portions of perfectly seasoned meat, onions, and peppers are a staple. Another standout that showcases the restaurant's commitment to authentic flavors is the Al Pastor, a traditional pork dish marinated and cooked to perfection, often cited by patrons as a must-try.

3. The Lunch Combo Value: Speedy González (A Traveler’s Best Friend)

For travelers needing a quick, affordable, and satisfying meal before 3:00 PM, the lunch menu is a hidden gem. The Speedy González is a popular choice, embodying the restaurant's commitment to fast service and reasonable prices. These lunch combos, which often feature a taco, enchilada, and rice or beans for a low price point, are ideal for families and budget-conscious adventurers passing through the Merchants Walk Plaza area. This focus on value and speed is part of what makes La Carreta a reliable choice in Summersville, WV.

4. The Ultimate Comfort Food: Fajitas Nachos & Burritos

When comfort food is the goal, two dishes rise above the rest: the burritos and the fajitas nachos. The burritos are known for their generous stuffing and flavorful fillings, a satisfying meal on their own. However, the fajitas nachos offer a unique twist, combining the melted cheese and crunchy chips of nachos with the savory, grilled toppings of fajitas. This blend of textures and flavors is a fan favorite, perfect for sharing as an appetizer or enjoying as a decadent main course. The Grilled Chicken Nachos are a particularly popular option for those seeking a protein-packed meal.

5. Seamless Proximity to West Virginia’s Adventure Corridor

The final secret to La Carreta’s success isn't on the menu, but in its location. Situated conveniently off US Route 19, the restaurant serves as a vital refueling station for visitors to the area’s major attractions. Its proximity to the New River Gorge National Park, a hub for outdoor activities like whitewater rafting and rock climbing, means it captures the hungry crowds looking for a substantial, high-quality dinner. This strategic location in Nicholas County positions it as the premier Mexican dining option, often drawing comparisons with other regional spots like El Bandito Mexican Restaurant and El Rio Mexican Restaurant in nearby Oak Hill.

Why La Carreta Dominates the Summersville Dining Scene

La Carreta has maintained its status as a local favorite for over two decades by consistently delivering on three core promises: authenticity, atmosphere, and speed. The commitment to serving authentic Mexican food, cooked fresh daily, is evident in the quality of their dishes.

The atmosphere is consistently described as warm and welcoming, creating a vibrant yet relaxed dining experience that is suitable for all ages. Whether you're a local celebrating a birthday or a family of tourists passing through, the friendly and fast service ensures a positive visit. The combination of reasonable prices, a diverse menu including specialties like Quesadilla Rellena, and the convenience of a complete bar makes La Carreta the gold standard for Mexican cuisine in the Southern West Virginia region. This enduring popularity solidifies its reputation as a true legend of the Summersville WV culinary landscape.

5 Secrets of La Carreta Summersville WV: Why This Mexican Restaurant is a New River Gorge Legend
la carreta summersville wv
la carreta summersville wv

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