Salsa Fresca Mexican Grill Spices up Dutchess County
The made-to-order Mexican chain has caused a stir in the local restaurant scene, as two new locations of Salsa Fresca open in Dutchess County.
Crowds of locals and students from surrounding colleges and high schools have been bustling through the doors of the 3434 North Road Salsa Fresca since its grand opening on Jan. 14. I took to the manager to see how this lively hub for lovers of Mexican cuisine compares to other local Mexican eateries.
Salsa Fresca prides themselves on being different from other Mexican chains and restaurants in Dutchess County.
“Our food is almost all fresh. We get daily deliveries, and there are no freezers in here” according to Shift Manager, Tony W.
He also spoke to the chain’s success at the new 3434 North Road location. The first few weeks have been “pretty busy,” and he’s seen a trend in student customers, many being from Marist College.
It appears to be a trendy spot among this demographic, as Salsa Fresca offers a too-good-to-be-true student discount.
“There’s a student special, so it’s $5 anything in the menu from 2–4p.m. weekdays.”
In addition to student perks, Salsa Fresca offers a civil discount for firefighters and Marist Security. With a single text, all customers can join the ‘Salsa Club’ and receive special deals and promotions every month.
Operating under an assembly line style, the Salsa Fresca layout is much like other fast-casual Mexican chains. Aside from the illustrious build-your-own burrito bowl, their menu offers various signature dishes for those indecisive eaters.
The North Road location has increased the competition among local Mexican restaurants. Molé Molé, a casual Mexican eatery just half a mile from the new Salsa Fresca location also offers fresh Mexican food, sit-down style.
Tamar, a full time employee at Molé Molé, has seen “a slight change” in their business since the opening of the 3434 North Road Salsa Fresca, but is confident that Molé Molé is a better choice for locals seeking authentic Mexican fare.
At Molé Molé, “everything’s grilled and cooked fresh. The only stuff not made in house is the cheese.”
Confident in the fresh ingredients and authenticity of Molé Molé’s food, Tamar boasts that “Everyone that works here besides me is from Mexico.” In other words, they make the good stuff.
Speaking to the new competition of Salsa Fresca, Tamar points out how the general customer-base for Molé Molé has always been predominately Marist faculty and employees of the MidHudson Regional Hospital, so she’s not expecting a significant impact in business due to Salsa Fresca attracting local students.
Even so, Molé Molé offers a 10% student discount – no minimum.
Salsa Fresca is certainly trending in the local Mexican restaurant scene with its discounts, service and prime location. Will locals remain loyal to their tried and true Mexican eateries, or cave for deals and fast service?
Salsa Fresca Dutchess County Locations:
3434 North Rd, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
1110 State Rte 55, Lagrangeville, NY 12540
Salsa Fresca Hours of Operation:
Monday through Sunday 11a.m. – 9p.m.
