I have been to La Hacienda Del Sol several times during my stint in West Lafayette. It’s a convenient spot to meet friends and classmates due to its very central location. While not exactly fine dining, the specials are hard to beat, making it a great choice for the budget-minded student craving Mexican inspired fare.
Location
La Hacienda is a little bit of a trek from campus but definitely walking distance if the weather is decent. It’s located on Howard Ave.—that very oddly angled street off of River Rd.— right across from Nine Irish. The closest CityBus stop is probably River Market or Wabash Landing, but it’s only a 10-15 min walk from the PMU/Krannert stops. There is ample parking if you are traveling by car.
Mood & Ambiance
Hmm, where to start…
It may not look very charming on the outside, but hey, neither do I most mornings. The feel is definitely laid back. The décor is exaggeratedly Mexican but not necessarily in a bad way. The interior is dim but still inviting—sort of like a cavern where every day is Cinco de Mayo. Patio seating is cheerful, open, and as pleasant as the weather is that day. Dress is casual.
The Service
I think sometimes they are understaffed, which is not the fault of the waiters and waitresses. The people are generally friendly and accommodating, just a little hard to flag down at times when they are attending too many tables.
The Food
I have tried many of the dishes and some of the specials. Specials are unabashedly based on the principle of quantity not quality, which is perfectly fine for the hungry student. However, there is an extensive menu for those who have other priorities. The fajitas are on par with pretty much everywhere else if that’s your go-to. My personal favorite is the seafood enchiladas. Just the other day I tried the chorizo nachos. I really appreciated that they used actual cheese and not “nacho cheese”, but for the price, I do wish that they had layered it a little so that there weren’t so many naked chips at the base. If you are there for Taco Tuesday, I would recommend the steak but skip the barbacoa (unless you like the flavor of barbecue sauce). Overall, the dishes I have tried met my expectations.
The Drinks
This patron had already had a rough week…and it was only Monday. Margaritas can fix that. 
You’ll be hard pressed to find a deal that beats $3 margaritas all day Monday through Wednesday! However, for all you folks harboring some irrational, deep-seated marg hate, there are plenty of other specials throughout the week to quench your thirst. If you and your crew are feeling extra adventurous (or if you already know you like micheladas), why don’t you give the Six Amigas a try? Hehe.
Closing Time
Ah, speaking of closing time, Monday-Wednesday they close at 9, so plan accordingly. There aren’t too many Mexican Restaurants on the west side of the Wabash, so I consider it fortunate that La Hacienda del Sol is around to dish up decent plates. It’s a fun and festive spot to grab an impromptu bite and drinks with your besties, your coworkers, or your favorite grandma. Not once have I left hungry or dissatisfied, and I hope to continue that tradition for as long as I have the opportunity.