TSM Verdict
The Verdict
Colima Mexican Restaurant is a sit-down Mexican eatery known for its flavorful fajitas and grilled meats. With a menu that highlights traditional dishes, it offers a vibrant dining experience in Sylva, North Carolina.
Worth it?
Yes, especially if you are near Sylva.
Best order
Fajitas, Palomilla, Combo 1: Cheese Enchilada and Taco (Asada), Combo 2: Chicken Enchilada and Chile Relleno
Best time
Lunch or early dinner
Verify
Check current hours before driving.
Go For
- Fajitas
- Palomilla
- Combo 1: Cheese Enchilada and Taco (Asada)
- Combo 2: Chicken Enchilada and Chile Relleno
- Combo 6: Two Enchiladas
Skip If
- You are looking for a restaurant in Tennessee, as it is located in North Carolina.
- You prefer a casual dining experience, as it is a sit-down restaurant.
- You are on a strict budget, as typical entrée prices range from $13.50 to $17.95.
Before You Go
Confirm current hours on the official site or Facebook.
Decision Guide
Decision Guide
Is it worth visiting?
Colima Mexican Restaurant is ideal for those seeking authentic Mexican cuisine with a focus on grilled meats and traditional dishes. It offers a satisfying dining experience for families and groups.
Best first order?
Fajitas
Best time?
Worth driving from Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge?
While it may not be a casual stop, Colima Mexican Restaurant offers a distinct dining experience that could be worth the drive for those seeking quality Mexican food.
Current concern?
Planner Snapshot
At a Glance
Location
Sylva, Tennessee
Cuisine
Mexican restaurant
Price
$
Best meal
Lunch or early dinner
Families
Confirm fit before going
Planning fit
Best as part of a Sylva stop
Best For
Families looking for casual dining • Fans of authentic Mexican food • Visitors seeking generous portions at reasonable prices
Website
colimamexrest.comMenu
View menuPro tip: Try the chicken dishes, which are often praised for their flavor and freshness
About Colima Mexican Restaurant
Colima Mexican Restaurant has been serving Sylva's craving for Mexican cuisine for over a decade, becoming a reliable standby for both locals and Western Carolina University students. The restaurant's main draw is its budget-friendly pricing, with weekday lunch buffets offering a spread of Tex-Mex favorites and their popular $1.25 Taco Tuesdays bringing in crowds.
The menu covers traditional Mexican restaurant staples - from sizzling fajitas and combination plates to enchiladas and burritos. House specialties include their queso dip and complimentary chips and salsa that arrive promptly when you're seated. The portions are generous, making it a good value for families and groups.
While the dining room's decor is showing its age, the casual atmosphere makes it a comfortable spot for quick lunches or relaxed dinners. The service experience can vary - some servers are notably attentive and friendly, while others may need prompting during busy periods.
Located in downtown Sylva, Colima offers ample parking and is easily accessible from the main strip. The restaurant tends to be busiest during lunch hours and weekend evenings, though wait times rarely exceed 15 minutes. Most entrees fall in the $10-15 range, with lunch specials offering even better value.
For first-time visitors, the lunch buffet provides a good sampling of their menu offerings, while regular diners often praise the fajitas and combination plates. Recent reviewers report some inconsistency in food quality, Colima remains a reliable option for Mexican food in Sylva, especially for those seeking wallet-friendly prices and familiar Mexican restaurant favorites.
Amenities & Features
- Lunch and Wednesday night buffets offer great value with good variety
- Taco Tuesday specials at $1.25 draw consistent crowds
- Chicken Tortilla Soup and Poker Plate get specific praise from regulars
- Long-time community staple with many repeat customers who visit multiple times monthly
Insider Tips for Colima Mexican Restaurant
Insider tips
Try the chicken dishes, which are often praised for their flavor and freshness.
Before you go
Current price guidance on this page is $. A website is linked here for direct confirmation of current details.
Menu Guide
What to Order at Colima Mexican Restaurant
Main
Fajitas
Sauteed with bell peppers, onion, and tomato, and served with rice, beans, and guacamole. A signature dish that showcases the restaurant's focus on grilled flavors.
Main
Palomilla
Grilled top sirloin served on a hot platter with onions, chiles toreados, and guacamole. This dish highlights the restaurant's commitment to quality meats.
Main
Combo 1: Cheese Enchilada and Taco (Asada)
A combination plate served with rice and beans, offering a taste of classic Mexican flavors in one dish.
Main
Combo 2: Chicken Enchilada and Chile Relleno
This combination plate features ranchera or cream sauce, served with rice and beans, perfect for those wanting a variety of tastes.
Main
Combo 6: Two Enchiladas
Choose from chicken, cheese, or beef enchiladas, served with rice and beans, making it a versatile option for enchilada lovers.
Best For
- Families looking for casual dining
- Fans of authentic Mexican food
- Visitors seeking generous portions at reasonable prices
Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit Colima Mexican Restaurant
Check the restaurant's current seating policy before weekend evenings; popular spots can have waits.
Tags
Traveler Questions
What are the current hours for Colima Mexican Restaurant?
Public hours on this listing show Friday 11 AM to 10 PM, Monday 11 AM to 10 PM, Sunday 11 AM to 9 PM, and additional days in the hours table. Call (828) 586-9999 before driving over if timing matters.
Where is Colima Mexican Restaurant located?
Colima Mexican Restaurant is listed at 62 E Sylva Shopping Center Sylva NC 28779. Use the directions button for current routing, traffic, and drive time from your lodging.
Does Colima Mexican Restaurant take reservations or call-ahead seating?
This listing does not have a verified reservation policy. Call ahead before peak lunch or dinner periods, especially if you are bringing a group or driving in from outside Sylva.
What should I order first at Colima Mexican Restaurant?
Start with the most category-specific items on the current menu and ask about daily specials when you arrive. Check directly before driving if you need a specific dish.
Is Colima Mexican Restaurant worth a detour from Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge?
Colima Mexican Restaurant makes the most sense when you are already exploring Sylva or the east side of the Smokies. For most travelers, it is better as part of a local day trip than a standalone drive from the main tourist strip.
What should I know about parking, groups, or accessibility?
We do not have verified parking, group seating, or accessibility details for this listing yet. Call the business directly before arriving with an RV, trailer, large group, or specific accessibility needs.
More in Sylva
Nearby picks around Sylva
Explore More
Plan around Sylva
Explore Sylva attractions
Discover top-rated spots
Top-rated mexican restaurant in Sylva
More places to eat in Sylva
Browse Smoky Mountain dining
Coffee and quick bites
Find your perfect stay
Expert travel tips