Welcome to Katie's Tex Mex
Katie's Tex Mex serves up delicious Salvadoran and Mexican eats from a surprising location—a gas station! This gem, found at 13400 Old Columbia Pike in Silver Spring, MD, defies expectations with its vibrant flavors and welcoming atmosphere. Expect quick service, casual dining, and a menu packed with comfort food that brings a taste of home. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Katie's provides a unique dining experience for solo diners and families alike. Who knew fuel stops could serve such fantastic food?
Popular dishes
Restaurant Gallery
About
Located conveniently inside an Exxon gas station, Katie's Tex Mex adds a unique twist to the typical fast-food experience. It stands out in the bustling neighborhood of Silver Spring, where many overlook its culinary offerings because of its gas station setting. But once you step inside, the rich aromas emanating from the kitchen invite you to discover the full spectrum of flavors.
Katie's Tex Mex caters to a diverse crowd, featuring spacious wheelchair-accessible facilities and a cozy seating area for diners wanting to enjoy a meal on the spot. The staff is friendly, always ready to share their recommendations, ensuring each visitor feels welcome. Parking isn't an issue either—free street and lot parking add to the ease of visiting this local treasure.
Open every day, the peak hours coincide mostly with breakfast and lunch, particularly during the weekends when loyal patrons flock to savor carne asada burritos and fresh papusas before heading off on their errands. However, for a quieter experience, the evenings, particularly on weekdays, are perfect for enjoying a tasty meal without the hustle and bustle.
Working Hours
- SundayOpen
- MondayOpen
- TuesdayOpen
- WednesdayOpen
- ThursdayOpen
- FridayOpen
- SaturdayOpen
What People Say
Most Liked
Customers rave about the delicious carne asada, often calling it a highlight of their visit. The pupusas also earn glowing reviews, praised for their authenticity and comforting flavors. Quick service is a significant draw, allowing busy diners to grab their meals on the go without compromising quality.
The casual vibe makes it an ideal spot for families—everyone can find something on the menu that suits their taste. Plus, the prices, ranging mostly from $10-$20, offer great value for the generous portions served, making it easy to return again and again.
Another popular aspect is the accessibility of the restaurant, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a meal without worrying about parking or seating, a big plus for families and solo diners.
Most Disliked
While the food shines, the location can sometimes deter potential new customers. Dining inside a gas station can feel unappealing, leading some to miss out on the fantastic fare prepared daily at Katie's Tex Mex. Despite the clean and casual setting, the 'no frills' ambiance may not be everyone's cup of tea—some prefer a more traditional dining environment.
Another concern voiced by diners is that not all staff consistently match the friendly service standard. While many enjoy their interactions, there have been mentions of less than friendly service during busy hours, which can leave a sour taste after an otherwise enjoyable meal.
Reviews
Garcia D.
Fresh delicious food at the gas station. Got the carne asada and it was so good. Highly recommended
Raul A.
Great, authentic food. Made fresh and staff is very friendly. We've enjoyed it so much we decided to have them cater for a few events. Quality did not decrease.
Ben
$12 burrito was yummy. We got a steak burrito and a pork-with-pineapple burrito
Fer R.
The food is first rate in terms of quality, flavor and price. And the ladies running the place are nice (except one). The downside is that it's inside an average gas station store. There are two tables w/chairs but your car for sure is an upgrade to the zero frills ambiance of the place. Think of it as an upgrade to an 'indoors food truck'.LOL
Waimar T.
Who would have thought I would enjoy food from a gas station?! The workers at our house were eating some papusas and they told me they got it from here. I’ve lived here so long and never knew it was just right here at my local gas station! Food was excellent. Like homemade food. They need to put an ad there so people would know about it. Friendly ladies! Oh and it’s not Mexican. It’s Salvadoran food.
Kayla A.
Come here for some amazing, delicious, authentic tacos, carne asada and more! We come here all the time, because the food and the prices are unbeatable. These ladies before the grille cook with LOVE ❤️
James G.
Food was excellent. Tacos are $4. A bit pricey for the environment but they are a decent size and very tasty. Tamal was excellent, as was pupusa and the rice and beans. Beef tacos have a slight soy/teriyaki glaze but it makes them taste extra tasty. Lengua was excellent. Service was very nice and helpful and very friendly.