Mexican Restaurants in Charlotte
Grab the tacos and tequila, it’s fiesta time.
by Callie Langhorne May 03, 2021
Pick up a few tacos, enchiladas and margaritas from your favorite local Mexican restaurant in Charlotte. ¡Salud!
Eat Up
Anita’s Mexican Grill
Known as one of the top hidden gems in Charlotte, Anita’s Mexican Grill is serving up some of the best tacos, burritos, fajitas and classic Mexican plates on Yorkmont Road. Don’t let the location—in a BP parking lot between a dry cleaner and a Subway—fool you, Anita’s is a must-visit. Our recommendation? Go with a Combo #4 that includes a burrito, a taco and rice.
Cabo Fish Taco
A distinct fusion of fresh seafood and original Baja Mexican cuisine, Cabo Fish Taco features dishes that are original derivatives of Southern California and coastal Baja Mexico. Our go-to? We’re echoing Guy Fieri from “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives” and going with the BBQ Mahi Mahi Tacos.
Don Pedro Mexican Restaurant
Don Pedro Mexican Restaurant specializes in Mexican foods including shrimp, fajitas, nachos, seafood, and more, all prepared with the wonderful spices and art of traditional Mexican food. The big chairs make you feel like royalty, but the warm ambiance and attentive service will make you feel right at home. Be sure to check out their house specialties like the Carne Asada, also known as a customer favorite.
Miguel’s Mexican and American Restaurant
Miguel’s, located near the Charlotte Douglas International Airport, specializes in Mexican and American cuisine and drinks at affordable prices. The restaurant’s tagline is “where great taste speaks a universal language” and that is something we can all get on board with. May we suggest trying Miguel’s Fajitas?
Paco's Tacos & Tequila
Known for their authentic Tex-Mex dining, Paco’s Tacos & Tequila serves the freshest quality ingredients from their wood-fired fajitas to the cheese enchiladas with chili con carne. Each dish is crafted under the expert guidance of James Beard award-winning Tex-Mex culinary expert and cookbook author, Rob Walsh. Unique memorabilia and embellishments are sprinkled throughout the cozy bar and dining areas. There’s even patio seating and plenty of space to watch the big game or catch up with friends. Kick off your meal with the Volcano Queso, a blend of cheeses melted with pineapple, bacon, onions and poblano peppers.
Picante Mexican Grill
If you are the type who likes options at your fingertips as you build your perfect burrito or bowl, Picante Mexican Grill is for you. Not only do they have a plethora of options for you to choose from as you walk down the line to order. Portions are hearty and vegetarian offerings are plentiful. We know it sounds extra, but don’t skip the guacamole.
RuRu’s Tacos + Tequila
Although it’s Mexican on the menu, RuRu’s Tacos + Tequila draws inspiration from Latin, Korean, American and Greek fare to bring spicy south-of-the-border flair to your taste buds. Take advantage of their patio and dine al fresco while enjoying their recipes prepared with the integrity of using only pure and simple ingredients. Try the Three Amigos—I Am McLovin, Ma The Meatloaf, and Let It Rain all in one.
Sabor Latin Street Grill
Authentic street food from El Salvador, Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Mexico and Colombia is the name of the game at Sabor Latin Street Grill—and let’s just say, they know how to make an amazing taco (and burrito and nachos and bowl). As an independent and locally owned brand, the proof is in the pudding for why they have successfully opened 10+ locations around Charlotte. For what it’s worth, the empanadas are excelente.
Superica
While this concept wasn’t born in Charlotte, it sure has become a favorite in South End. Old West vibes mesh with warehouse-chic in a decor as stunning as the Tex-Mex fare. Our favorite order? The Tacos de Barbacoa (slow cooked brisket, Pasilla Oaxaca, avocado, onions and cilantro) never disappoint.
Taco Mama
For a laidback, funky-fun vibe, this neighborhood taqueria concept serves up signature tacos, burritos and margaritas. Fresh sides and slow-roasted meats take the offerings to a new level. The most bang for your buck? The two-taco basket with chips & salsa and a side. Snag a seat on the patio and soak up the sunshine.
Taqueria Mal Pan
Looking for a more elevated experience? Taqueria Mal Pan features a menu of chef-driven Mexican comfort foods with house-made tortillas, marinades and salsas. Their dishes are , as appealing to the eye as they are to the stomach. Indulge in the Gobernador—Oaxaca cheese mulita, sautéed spicy shrimp, pico de gallo and peanut avocado mousse.
Three Amigos Mexican Grill & Cantina
Another popular spot on Central Avenue, Three Amigos Mexican Grill & Cantina serves authentic Mexican seasonings and flavors that are made with the freshest ingredients. The prompt service and bright, friendly atmosphere make this a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Their specialties are the enchiladas and traditional seafood dishes. May we recommend the Tacos de Carne Asada Plate?
1900 Mexican Grill and Restaurant
1900 Mexican Grill and Restaurant is inspired by the flavors and smells only found in the plazas and taquerias of Mexico City. Their menu is filled with delicious plates created from scratch with the best ingredients from Mexican kitchens including taqueria-style tacos, Mole Poblano and Chiles Rellenos. For dessert, treat yourself to the Xocolate Creme Brulle—a creamy custard infused with Mexican chocolate.
Cheers to Cocktails
You can’t properly celebrate Cinco de Mayo without a cocktail, so we’ve rounded up a few places for all of the tequila lovers out there who want to order up some delightful libations.
Bardo
This experimental-meets-transformational concept takes “chef-driven tasting menus” to a new level. Order the Cooling Effect cocktail made with Lunazul Reposado Tequila, arbol & guajillo peppers, aloe, agave and lime.
Billy Sunday
This bar brings award-winning curated cocktails and vintage spirits to the Queen City. Sip on the seasonal SPF 100, made with Reposado tequila, ripe mango, lime and tajin.
Dilworth Tasting Room
Sit by the serene koi pond in one of Charlotte’s favorite “secret gardens” and enjoy a drink under the starry sky. Try the Agave Maria, made with Ilegal Mezcal, pineapple juice, lime juice, Fernet Branca, organic agave, Peychuad’s Bitters and garnished with an edible flower.
Haberdish
Reminiscent of Southern kitchens in the mill towns of old, Haberdish certainly emulates down-home hospitality. Try the If the Suze Fits, made with suze, Ilegal Joven Mezcal, tawny port and grenadine.
Idlewild
Don’t let the “no-menu” approach of this craft cocktail bar intimidate you. Just tell one of the skillful bartenders what you’re in the mood for and you’ll get a creative cocktail created just for you.
