Colorful murals outside of Uno Mas in downtown Lynchburg. Photo by Peyton Saunders 
The Uno Mas brunch menu is available from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekends. Source https://www.unomasrestaurant.com/. 
Uno Mas has murals, plants, and wall fixtures to create a festive atmosphere. Photo by Peyton Saunders 
Uno Mas offers margaritas available in flights, as well as chips and salsa as an appetizer. Photo by Peyton Saunders 
Uno Mas offers margaritas available in flights, as well as chips and salsa as an appetizer. Photo by Peyton Saunders 
This is the much-loved burger, served with fries and a grilled jalapeño. Photo by Peyton Saunders 
This dessert is the pastel de leche topped with strawberry syrup and popcorn. Photos by Peyton Saunders 
There is a charming thrift shop next door, which is a nice place to explore before or after your meal. Photos by Peyton Saunders
One of the newer restaurants on Fifth Street in Downtown Lynchburg is Uno Mas, which specializes in Mexican cuisine and boasts a vibrant atmosphere.
Less than 10 minutes from the University of Lynchburg’s campus, Uno Mas is an affordable student option for lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch.
The atmosphere of the restaurant was vibrant and lively. Some of the restaurant’s standout features included colorful umbrellas in the courtyard and outdoor games including cornhole.
The restaurant’s interior transports you to Mexico, coming alive with color through murals and decorations throughout, including cacti adorned with lights. It is framed by large windows that allow natural light and gorgeous views of the downtown area.
Complimenting the decor is the excellent service at the restaurant. My server, Pacsi, was amazingly attentive and accommodating during my visit.
Customers who are accustomed to Lynchburg staple La Caretta may be put off by the non-complimentary chips. However, chips and salsa are available as an appetizer for $3, and chips and queso are available for $5.50. This can be paired with a variety of sauce options, including Verde, Classic, Fuego, Surf, Pico, Avocado, and Chimichurri. I tried the avocado, which had a pleasant kick, and the classic salsa, which tasted a little too reminiscent of ketchup. The spicier salsas have a richer flavor that complements the chips better.
While tequila is not usually my go-to drink, I definitely tried the flight of margaritas and enjoyed the fruit accompaniments the most.
And yes, I did try a burger at the Mexican restaurant; in my defense, it was on the menu and they incorporated Mexican-style ingredients into an iconically American dish. The burger was a blend of beef and chorizo, served with caramelized onions, white queso, avocado, lettuce, jalapeño, a homemade spread (likely a combination of ketchup and mayonnaise), and a side of French fries. The burger was the perfect blend of American and Mexican influences and culture.
To wrap up the meal, I tried the pastel de leche, or milk cake, for dessert. This was the perfect way to wrap up the meal after also trying the grilled jalapeño. It offered a sweet treat that helped balance the spice and cleansed the palate for the rest of the day.
Uno Mas is a great option for students to experience affordable dining in Downtown Lynchburg. With Empire Fleet Vintage nestled next door, it’s the perfect weekend adventure in the city.
Find more information about Uno Mas at https://www.unomasrestaurant.com/ and find more information about Downtown Lynchburg at https://downtownlynchburg.com/.
