From smoky salsa roja to spicy salsa verde and everything in between, the flavor profiles and combinations for salsa are endless. Not that you ever need a reason to enjoy this iconic duo of a snack, but National Tortilla Chip Day is right around the corner (Feb. 24, to be exact), and what better way to celebrate than by eating at a local restaurant? Here are a few of our favorites to try out!
YOLA Cocina Mexicana
Though known for its curated menu of tacos and seafood, Yola doesn’t skimp on the pre-dinner accompaniments. The chips and salsa order includes three different salsas – a spicy habanero blended to perfection, a bright salsa verde and a smoky, taquera salsa with a lot of heat. Pro tip: enjoy this selection on Monday evenings with a $5 margarita to pair. 3818 S Alameda St, Corpus Christi, TX 78411
Acapulco #1
At Acapulco on Airline, you don’t have to choose between salsa verde or salsa roja. The stars of the show here, though, are the flour tortilla chips. These thick-cut flour tortilla chips are an excellent contrast to the bright green or savory red salsas. Acapulco is open late and the chips and salsa pair nicely with a post-dinner margarita. 1133 Airline Rd, Corpus Christi, TX 78412
Kiko’s Mexican Food Restaurant & Cantina
A Corpus Christi Tex-Mex landmark, Kiko’s is known for its homemade flour tortillas and sizzling fajita plates, but the feast begins with fresh red salsa and house-made corn tortilla chips. The salsa consists of fresh tomato, onion, cilantro and lime. While you’re there, order a side of queso … you won’t regret it. 5514 Everhart Rd, Corpus Christi, TX 78411
To-Ce-Chi Antojitos Mexicanos
Not your typical table chips and salsa, the salsa ranchera at To-Ce-Chi is a show-stopping, spicy and smoky pairing to not just chips, but any menu item. Comprised of roasted tomatoes, green chiles, garlic, onions and cilantro, the end result has a surprising depth of flavor that will keep you coming back for more. 4028 Weber Rd, Corpus Christi, TX 78411
El Sol De Mexico #1
If you prefer a creamy, not-so-spicy component to salty, crisp tortilla chips, look no further than the salsa verde at El Sol De México #1. With an avocado base, cilantro and mild tomatillo, this salsa is refreshing with chips and a bright topping for breakfast tacos or fajitas. 3511 S Staples St, Corpus Christi, TX 78411
La Playa Mexican Grille Port Aransas
Known for its welcoming atmosphere and slow island vibes, the chips and salsa is a wonderful start to a delicious, laid-back Tex-Mex food experience at La Playa Grille in Port Aransas. A fresh blend of tomatoes, onion, cilantro, chili and lime, the subtle heat and fresh flavor pair well with any of their acclaimed fresh seafood dishes and exciting tequila offerings. 222 Beach Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373
Señor Jaime’s Mexican Restaurant
We can’t talk about salsa without including its creamy confidant, guacamole. Señor Jaime’s takes the cake with its tableside guacamole, assembled with tomatoes, onion, cilantro, avocado and plenty of lime – it doesn’t get much fresher than that. 4615 Everhart Rd, Corpus Christi, TX 78411
