If you’re craving the zesty flavors and vibrant spices of Mexican cuisine in the heart of Philadelphia, you’ll be thrilled to know that the city boasts a multitude of delicious options to satisfy your taste buds. From sizzling fajitas to mouthwatering tacos, there’s a perfect spot waiting to transport you to the streets of Mexico. So, whether you’re a local or a visitor seeking an unforgettable culinary experience, let’s embark on a journey to discover the best Mexican food in Philadelphia and indulge in a fiesta of flavors that will leave you craving for more.
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Mexican Restaurants in Philadelphia
Philadelphia may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of Mexican cuisine, but it has a surprising number of fantastic options for lovers of Mexican food. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic taco, some authentic street food, or a fancy upscale dining experience, there’s a Mexican restaurant in Philadelphia to satisfy your cravings. Here are some of the top Mexican restaurants in the city.
El Vez
If you’re looking for a lively and vibrant Mexican dining experience, look no further than El Vez. Located in the heart of Center City, El Vez offers a modern twist on traditional Mexican cuisine. The colorful decor, upbeat music, and friendly staff create an inviting atmosphere that will instantly transport you to Mexico. From their famous guacamole to their mouthwatering Pescado a la Talla, every dish at El Vez is bursting with flavor. Don’t forget to pair your meal with one of their delicious margaritas or tequila flights for the complete El Vez experience.
Distrito
For a unique dining experience that combines Mexican cuisine with a colorful and eclectic ambiance, Distrito is the place to go. Inspired by the streets of Mexico City, this vibrant restaurant offers a menu filled with delicious dishes that represent the diverse flavors of Mexican street food. From their famous tacos to their mouthwatering guacamole, every bite at Distrito is a burst of flavor. The modern and playful decor, complete with vintage VW Beetle booths, adds to the overall excitement and fun of dining at Distrito.
Los Cuatro Milpas
If you’re in the mood for authentic Mexican comfort food, Los Cuatro Milpas is the perfect choice. This family-owned and operated restaurant has been serving up traditional Mexican dishes for over 40 years. From their homemade tortillas to their flavorful enchiladas verdes, every dish at Los Cuatro Milpas is made with love and care. The simple yet cozy atmosphere adds to the charm of this hidden gem, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Lolita
For a modern and upscale take on Mexican cuisine, look no further than Lolita. This trendy restaurant in Midtown Village offers a menu filled with innovative dishes that combine traditional Mexican flavors with a contemporary twist. From their mouthwatering Mole Poblano to their delectable ceviche, every dish at Lolita is a work of art. The sophisticated and stylish ambiance, complete with dim lighting and elegant decor, sets the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience.
La Calaca Feliz
If you’re searching for a casual neighborhood spot that serves delicious Mexican food, La Calaca Feliz is the place to be. Located in the Fairmount neighborhood, this cozy restaurant offers a menu filled with flavorful dishes that showcase the rich culinary traditions of Mexico. From their sizzling fajitas to their indulgent churros, every bite at La Calaca Feliz is a treat for your taste buds. The warm and inviting atmosphere, with its colorful walls and vibrant artwork, makes it the perfect place for a relaxed and enjoyable meal.
Authentic Mexican Cuisine
While there are many restaurants in Philadelphia that offer Mexican-inspired dishes, if you’re looking for an authentic Mexican dining experience, there are a few places that stand out from the rest.
Tacos el Rodeo
For some of the most authentic tacos in Philadelphia, head over to Tacos el Rodeo. Located in South Philly, this no-frills taqueria is a favorite among locals. The menu is simple, but the flavors are anything but. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic al pastor taco or a flavorful barbacoa burrito, Tacos el Rodeo has you covered. Don’t forget to try their homemade salsas and wash it all down with a refreshing horchata.
Taqueria La Veracruzana
If you’re craving authentic Mexican street food, Taqueria La Veracruzana is the place to go. Located in the heart of South Philly, this taqueria offers a wide variety of tacos, tortas, and quesadillas, all made with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor. From their mouthwatering carne asada to their spicy chorizo, every bite at Taqueria La Veracruzana is a taste of Mexico.
Los Taquitos de Puebla
For a taste of Puebla, a region known for its rich culinary traditions, head over to Los Taquitos de Puebla. This family-owned restaurant in South Philly specializes in dishes from the Puebla region, including their famous mole poblano and chiles en nogada. The flavors are bold and the portions are generous, making Los Taquitos de Puebla a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
El Tlaloc
If you’re looking for an authentic Mexican dining experience in Northern Liberties, El Tlaloc is the place to go. This cozy restaurant specializes in dishes from the state of Oaxaca, known for its complex flavors and unique ingredients. From their flavorful tlayudas to their mouthwatering mole negro, every dish at El Tlaloc is a true reflection of the cuisine of Oaxaca. The warm and welcoming atmosphere, combined with the attentive service, makes dining at El Tlaloc a truly memorable experience.
South Philly Barbacoa
For a taste of the famous barbacoa, head over to South Philly Barbacoa. This small, unassuming restaurant is known for its flavorful and tender barbacoa, made with locally sourced ingredients. The menu is simple, but the quality of the food is unparalleled. From their succulent lamb barbacoa to their flavorful consommé, every bite at South Philly Barbacoa is a true delight. The friendly and welcoming staff make dining at this hidden gem a truly enjoyable experience.
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Mexican Street Food
If you’re in the mood for something quick, easy, and packed with flavor, Mexican street food is the way to go. Luckily, Philadelphia has a number of food trucks and small eateries that specialize in authentic Mexican street food.
El Compadre
For some of the best street tacos in Philadelphia, look no further than El Compadre. This food truck, often found in Northern Liberties, offers a variety of tacos, including classics like al pastor and carnitas. The tacos are made with fresh ingredients and topped with flavorful salsas, creating a burst of flavor with every bite. The friendly staff and quick service make El Compadre a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
El Zarape
If you’re in the mood for some authentic Mexican antojitos (snacks), El Zarape is the place to go. This food truck, often found in University City, offers a variety of delicious snacks, including quesadillas, huaraches, and sopes. The dishes are made with fresh ingredients and topped with flavorful salsas, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The affordable prices and generous portions make El Zarape a great option for a quick and satisfying meal.
Mari Mi
For a taste of authentic Mexican street food with a unique twist, head over to Mari Mi. This food truck, often found in Fishtown, offers a menu filled with delicious fusion dishes that combine Mexican flavors with Asian influences. From their mouthwatering bulgogi tacos to their flavorful kimchi quesadillas, every bite at Mari Mi is a unique and delicious experience. The friendly and knowledgeable staff make dining at this food truck a truly enjoyable and memorable experience.
Tacos Don Memo
If you’re looking for some of the best carnitas in Philadelphia, Tacos Don Memo is the place to go. This food truck, often found in South Philly, offers a variety of dishes made with their famous slow-cooked carnitas. From their flavorful tacos to their indulgent tortas, every bite at Tacos Don Memo is a meat-lover’s dream. The friendly and attentive staff make dining at this food truck a truly enjoyable experience.
Taco Loco
For a taste of authentic Mexican street food in University City, Taco Loco is the place to go. This food truck offers a variety of delicious tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, all made with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor. From their mouthwatering al pastor to their flavorful vegetarian options, every dish at Taco Loco is a true delight. The quick service and affordable prices make dining at this food truck a convenient and satisfying experience.
Mexican Food Trucks
When it comes to Mexican cuisine, food trucks have become increasingly popular in Philadelphia. These mobile eateries offer a convenient and tasty way to enjoy your favorite Mexican dishes on the go.
Los Gallos Mexican Food Truck
If you’re looking for a food truck that offers a wide variety of delicious Mexican dishes, Los Gallos Mexican Food Truck is the place to go. From their flavorful tacos to their hearty burritos, this food truck has something for everyone. The friendly staff and quick service make dining at Los Gallos a truly enjoyable experience.
Philly Tacos
For some of the best tacos in Philadelphia, look no further than Philly Tacos. This food truck is known for its flavorful and authentic tacos, made with fresh ingredients and topped with flavorful salsas. The affordable prices and generous portions make Philly Tacos a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
El Guaco Loco
For a taste of authentic Mexican guacamole, head over to El Guaco Loco. This food truck specializes in delicious guacamole made with fresh avocados and a variety of flavorful ingredients. From their classic guacamole to their unique and inventive creations, every bite at El Guaco Loco is a true delight.
Tacodelphia
If you’re in the mood for some of the best burritos in Philadelphia, Tacodelphia is the place to go. This food truck offers a variety of flavorful and filling burritos, made with high-quality ingredients and bursting with flavor. The friendly staff and quick service make dining at Tacodelphia a truly enjoyable experience.
Chidos Tacos
For a taste of authentic Mexican tacos without breaking the bank, Chidos Tacos is the place to go. This food truck offers a variety of delicious and affordable tacos, made with fresh ingredients and topped with flavorful salsas. The friendly staff and quick service make dining at Chidos Tacos a convenient and satisfying experience.
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Regional Mexican Specialties
Mexico is known for its diverse regional cuisines, each with its own unique flavors and specialties. Luckily, Philadelphia has a few restaurants that specialize in regional Mexican dishes, allowing you to experience the flavors of different regions without leaving the city.
Cabo
For a taste of Baja California, head over to Cabo. This restaurant in University City offers a menu filled with dishes that represent the flavors of the Baja California region. From their flavorful fish tacos to their refreshing ceviche, every bite at Cabo is a taste of the sea. The laid-back and beachy ambiance, combined with the friendly service, makes dining at Cabo a truly enjoyable experience.
Mole Poblano at Lolita
If you’re in the mood for one of Mexico’s most famous dishes, head over to Lolita. This upscale Mexican restaurant in Midtown Village is known for its mouthwatering Mole Poblano, a complex and flavorful sauce made with a blend of chili peppers, spices, and chocolate. The tender and flavorful chicken, smothered in the rich and velvety mole sauce, is a true culinary masterpiece. Pair it with one of their handcrafted cocktails or a glass of Mexican wine for the perfect combination of flavors.
Pescado a la Talla at El Vez
For a taste of the flavors of the coast, head over to El Vez. This lively Mexican restaurant in Center City offers a wide variety of dishes inspired by the seafood-rich cuisine of the coastal regions of Mexico. One standout dish is the Pescado a la Talla, a whole grilled fish marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and chilies. The fish is cooked to perfection, with crispy skin and tender, flaky flesh. Pair it with one of their refreshing margaritas or a glass of Mexican beer for a truly satisfying meal.
Guacamole at Distrito
For a taste of authentic guacamole with a modern twist, head over to Distrito. This vibrant Mexican restaurant in University City is known for its creative and flavorful guacamole, made with fresh avocados and a variety of interesting ingredients. From their classic guacamole to their unique variations like the bacon and goat cheese guacamole, every bite at Distrito is a culinary adventure. The lively and colorful atmosphere, complete with quirky decor and neon lights, adds to the overall fun and excitement of dining at Distrito.
Enchiladas Verdes at Los Cuatro Milpas
If you’re in the mood for traditional Mexican comfort food, head over to Los Cuatro Milpas. This family-owned restaurant in South Philly is known for its flavorful and satisfying dishes, including their famous Enchiladas Verdes. These rolled tortillas filled with chicken and smothered in a tangy and slightly spicy green salsa are a true delight. The cozy and welcoming atmosphere, combined with the friendly service, make dining at Los Cuatro Milpas a truly enjoyable experience.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Finding vegetarian and vegan options at Mexican restaurants can sometimes be a challenge, but Philadelphia has a few restaurants that offer delicious plant-based Mexican dishes.
Pistola’s Del Sur
For some of the best vegetarian and vegan Mexican food in Philadelphia, head over to Pistola’s Del Sur. This trendy restaurant in Center City offers a menu filled with flavorful and creative dishes that cater to vegetarians and vegans. From their mouthwatering mushroom tacos to their delectable sweet potato quesadillas, every bite at Pistola’s Del Sur is a true delight. The stylish and modern ambiance, complete with colorful murals and trendy decor, adds to the overall dining experience.
Dos Tacos
For a quick and casual vegetarian and vegan Mexican meal, Dos Tacos is the place to go. This small eatery in University City offers a variety of customizable tacos, burritos, and bowls, allowing you to create your perfect plant-based Mexican meal. From their flavorful black beans to their spicy roasted corn salsa, every ingredient at Dos Tacos is fresh and made with care. The affordable prices and quick service make dining at this eatery a convenient and satisfying experience.
Blue Corn
For a taste of authentic Mexican flavors with a vegetarian and vegan twist, head over to Blue Corn. This cozy restaurant in Northern Liberties offers a menu filled with delicious dishes that cater to vegetarians and vegans. From their flavorful tofu mole to their indulgent vegan churros, every bite at Blue Corn is a true delight. The warm and inviting atmosphere, combined with the friendly service, make dining at Blue Corn a truly memorable experience.
Mi Lah Vegetarian
For a unique and innovative vegetarian dining experience, head over to Mi Lah Vegetarian in Center City. This restaurant offers a menu filled with flavorful and creative dishes that are sure to impress even the most devoted meat-eater. From their delicious vegan chorizo to their mouthwatering jackfruit carnitas, every dish at Mi Lah Vegetarian is a masterpiece of flavor. The chic and modern ambiance, complete with sleek decor and elegant lighting, adds to the overall dining experience.
Tuk Tuk Real
For a taste of authentic Mexican flavors with a vegan twist, head over to Tuk Tuk Real in University City. This small eatery offers a variety of delicious and affordable vegan Mexican dishes, made with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor. From their flavorful vegan chorizo tacos to their indulgent vegan churros, every bite at Tuk Tuk Real is a true delight. The cozy and relaxed atmosphere, combined with the friendly service, make dining at this eatery a truly enjoyable experience.
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Family-Friendly Mexican Restaurants
When dining out with the whole family, it’s important to find a Mexican restaurant that caters to kids and adults alike. Fortunately, Philadelphia has a few family-friendly Mexican restaurants that offer a variety of dishes to please everyone’s taste buds.
El Fuego
For a fun and family-friendly dining experience, head over to El Fuego. This casual Mexican restaurant in South Philly offers a menu filled with flavorful dishes that are sure to please both kids and adults. From their cheesy quesadillas to their indulgent nachos, every bite at El Fuego is a crowd-pleaser. The colorful and playful decor, featuring sombreros and piñatas, adds to the overall excitement and fun of dining at El Fuego.
El Limon
If you’re in the mood for some delicious and family-friendly Mexican food, El Limon is the place to go. This popular restaurant in Northern Liberties offers a menu filled with flavorful dishes that are sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings. From their tasty tacos to their cheesy enchiladas, every bite at El Limon is a true delight. The vibrant and lively atmosphere, complete with festive decorations and vibrant artwork, sets the perfect backdrop for a fun and enjoyable family meal.
The Blue Corn Grill
For a casual and family-friendly dining experience, head over to The Blue Corn Grill. This neighborhood restaurant in University City offers a menu filled with delicious Mexican dishes that are perfect for the whole family. From their flavorful tacos to their cheesy quesadillas, every bite at The Blue Corn Grill is a crowd-pleaser. The warm and inviting atmosphere, combined with the friendly service, make dining at The Blue Corn Grill a memorable experience for the whole family.
Xochitl
For a more upscale and family-friendly dining experience, head over to Xochitl. This stylish Mexican restaurant in Society Hill offers a menu filled with flavorful dishes that are sure to satisfy both kids and adults. From their tasty guacamole to their indulgent enchiladas, every bite at Xochitl is a true delight. The sophisticated and modern ambiance, complete with contemporary decor and elegant lighting, creates a welcoming atmosphere for a memorable family meal.
Veracruzana
If you’re looking for a family-friendly Mexican restaurant that offers a variety of dishes for everyone’s taste, Veracruzana is the place to go. This cozy restaurant in South Philly offers a menu filled with flavorful and satisfying dishes, including tacos, burritos, and fajitas. From their mouthwatering carnitas to their flavorful vegetarian options, Veracruzana has something for everyone. The friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere make dining at this restaurant a truly enjoyable experience for the whole family.
BYOB Mexican Restaurants
If you’re looking to enjoy your favorite Mexican dishes with a bottle of your favorite beer or wine, there are a few BYOB Mexican restaurants in Philadelphia that allow you to do just that.
Taco Riendo
For a casual BYOB Mexican dining experience, head over to Taco Riendo. This small and cozy restaurant in Northeast Philly offers a menu filled with delicious and authentic Mexican dishes. From their flavorful tacos to their indulgent enchiladas, every bite at Taco Riendo is a true delight. The friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere make dining at this restaurant a truly enjoyable experience.
Chismosa’s Cantina
If you’re looking for a BYOB Mexican restaurant with a lively and festive atmosphere, Chismosa’s Cantina is the place to go. Located in Northern Liberties, this vibrant restaurant offers a menu filled with flavorful and satisfying dishes. From their tasty burritos to their indulgent fajitas, every bite at Chismosa’s Cantina is a true delight. The lively and colorful decor, complete with piñatas and papel picado, adds to the overall fun and excitement of dining at Chismosa’s Cantina.
Cielito Lindo
For a taste of authentic Mexican flavors in a BYOB setting, head over to Cielito Lindo. This cozy and relaxed restaurant in South Philly offers a menu filled with delicious and satisfying dishes that showcase the best of Mexican cuisine. From their mouthwatering tamales to their flavorful enchiladas, every bite at Cielito Lindo is a true delight. The warm and inviting atmosphere, combined with the friendly service, make dining at this restaurant a truly enjoyable experience.
Kafeteria
For a unique and BYOB Mexican dining experience, head over to Kafeteria. Located in Fishtown, this trendy restaurant offers a menu filled with innovative and flavorful dishes that combine Mexican flavors with Eastern European influences. From their mouthwatering pierogi tacos to their delectable borscht nachos, every bite at Kafeteria is a true culinary adventure. The stylish and modern decor, complete with sleek furniture and contemporary artwork, adds to the overall dining experience.
El Purepecha
For a taste of authentic Mexican flavors in a BYOB setting, head over to El Purepecha. This cozy and welcoming restaurant in South Philly offers a menu filled with flavorful and satisfying dishes that represent the culinary traditions of Michoacán. From their delicious carnitas to their mouthwatering tamales, every bite at El Purepecha is a true delight. The warm and inviting atmosphere, combined with the friendly service, make dining at this restaurant a truly enjoyable experience.
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Upscale Mexican Dining
If you’re in the mood for an upscale dining experience that combines the flavors of Mexico with an elegant setting, Philadelphia has a few restaurants that fit the bill.
Tequila’s Restaurant
For a truly upscale Mexican dining experience, head over to Tequila’s Restaurant. Located in Center City, this elegant restaurant offers a menu filled with delicious and refined dishes that showcase the rich culinary traditions of Mexico. From their mouthwatering mole poblano to their flavorful chiles en nogada, every dish at Tequila’s is a culinary masterpiece. The sophisticated and luxurious ambiance, complete with sleek decor and elegant lighting, sets the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience.
La Fusion
For a taste of modern Mexican cuisine in an upscale setting, head over to La Fusion. This trendy restaurant in Northern Liberties offers a menu filled with innovative dishes that combine traditional Mexican flavors with contemporary techniques. From their delectable ceviche to their mouthwatering short rib enchiladas, every bite at La Fusion is a true delight. The stylish and modern decor, complete with colorful murals and trendy lighting, adds to the overall dining experience.
Border Spring
For a taste of fine Mexican dining with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, head over to Border Spring. This upscale restaurant in Queen Village offers a menu filled with flavorful dishes that showcase the best of Mexican cuisine. From their succulent lamb chops to their flavorful arroz con pollo, every bite at Border Spring is a true delight. The elegant and sophisticated ambiance, combined with the attentive service, makes dining at Border Spring a truly memorable experience.
Antojitos – Centro de Mexico
For a taste of Mexico City’s vibrant street food scene in an upscale setting, head over to Antojitos – Centro de Mexico. Located in Northeast Philly, this stylish restaurant offers a menu filled with delicious and authentic dishes that represent the flavors of Mexico City. From their flavorful tacos al pastor to their indulgent chiles en nogada, every bite at Antojitos is a culinary journey through the streets of Mexico City. The modern and trendy decor, complete with graffiti-style murals and stylish furniture, adds to the overall dining experience.
Rosario’s Tacos & Mexican Grill
For a taste of upscale Mexican dining with a focus on fresh ingredients, head over to Rosario’s Tacos & Mexican Grill. This elegant restaurant in Society Hill offers a menu filled with flavorful and satisfying dishes that showcase the best of Mexican cuisine. From their mouthwatering shrimp tacos to their indulgent mole enchiladas, every bite at Rosario’s is a true delight. The sophisticated and stylish ambiance, complete with contemporary decor and elegant lighting, makes dining at Rosario’s a truly memorable experience.
Affordable Mexican Eateries
If you’re looking for delicious Mexican food on a budget, Philadelphia has a number of affordable eateries that offer tasty dishes at affordable prices.
Los Jalapeños
For some of the best affordable Mexican food in Philadelphia, head over to Los Jalapeños. This small and cozy eatery in South Philly offers a menu filled with flavorful and satisfying dishes that won’t break the bank. From their delicious tacos to their indulgent burritos, every bite at Los Jalapeños is a true delight. The casual and laid-back atmosphere, combined with the friendly service, make dining at this eatery a truly enjoyable experience.
Cantina Los Caballitos
If you’re in the mood for affordable Mexican food in a lively and vibrant setting, Cantina Los Caballitos is the place to go. Located in East Passyunk, this popular eatery offers a menu filled with flavorful and satisfying dishes that are perfect for a casual meal with friends. From their tasty quesadillas to their indulgent fajitas, every bite at Cantina Los Caballitos is a true delight. The lively and colorful decor, complete with vibrant murals and festive lighting, adds to the overall fun and excitement of dining at Cantina Los Caballitos.
Tres Jalapenos
For a taste of affordable and authentic Mexican cuisine in Northeast Philly, head over to Tres Jalapenos. This cozy eatery offers a menu filled with flavorful and satisfying dishes, including tacos, burritos, and enchiladas. From their mouthwatering al pastor tacos to their indulgent chiles rellenos, every bite at Tres Jalapenos is a true delight. The warm and inviting atmosphere, combined with the friendly service, make dining at this eatery a truly enjoyable experience.
Taco Riendo
For tasty and affordable Mexican food in Frankford, head over to Taco Riendo. This small and casual eatery offers a menu filled with flavorful and satisfying dishes that are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. From their mouthwatering carnitas tacos to their indulgent enchiladas, every bite at Taco Riendo is a true delight. The casual and relaxed atmosphere, combined with the friendly service, make dining at this eatery a convenient and satisfying experience.
Cafe Ynez
For a taste of affordable Mexican food in a stylish and modern setting, head over to Cafe Ynez. Located in Graduate Hospital, this trendy eatery offers a menu filled with flavorful and satisfying dishes that won’t break the bank. From their tasty breakfast burritos to their indulgent mole poblano, every bite at Cafe Ynez is a true delight. The chic and contemporary decor, complete with sleek furniture and stylish lighting, adds to the overall dining experience.