Mexican food can mean a quick taco or an authentic meal. In Tallahassee, it means all of the above! We’ve done our research (i.e. ate a lot of chips and salsa) and narrowed down the long list of Mexican restaurants to the 10 best spots in town.
#1. La Tiendita
La Tiendita is one of those holes-in-the-wall restaurants that you need a recommendation before visiting. Well, this is it. If you’re looking for the most authentic Mexican experience in town, La Tiendita has the tamales, enchiladas, chilaquiles and guacamole of your dreams. (The Yelp community agrees!) Brave their small parking lot and you’ll get great service, great prices and large portions that will leave you full for days!
#3. El Jalisco
El Jalisco (on North Monroe) has a great atmosphere for parties, dinner gatherings and happy hour! Their menu has all the Tex-Mex classics; regulars love the carnitas, chimichanga platter and inexpensive lunch specials. Make sure to visit during Happy Hour because Yelpers give their margaritas 10/10!
#2. Taco Republik
Taco Republik offers an impressive array of tacos, nachos, bowls and more, all made with fresh ingredients. Among the favorites are the Carne Santana taco (steak) and the James Camarones taco (shrimp). It’s a great spot for lunch located in Midtown, walking distance from boutiques, bars and a bookstore. 123 users on Yelp gave Taco Republik 4 ½ stars. Make sure to try their amazing yucca fries with aioli!
#4. El Cocinero
Located on East Tennessee St, next to Leon High School, El Cocinero has a taco for everyone. They have an adventurous menu with options for meat-lovers and vegetarians alike; the favorites are fried avocado, shrimp and steak tacos. The atmosphere is casual and trendy, and they have a cute outdoor seating area. Their bar area has a great vibe, great choices of margaritas and craft beers, and super-friendly servers. 82 Yelpers gave El Cocinero a solid 4 stars.
#5. Tacospeak
Tacospeak’s location right on the edge of Florida State’s campus as well as its free delivery service make it 100% college-kid approved.Their menu includes large-portioned tacos on homemade tortillas, including their famed breakfast tacos. If you’re looking for an upgrade from Chipotle or Moes, Tacospeak has a great atmosphere and even better guac!
#6. El Patron
For a strong margarita, visit El Patron. Their drinks, lively atmosphere and friendly bar service make for a great late-night experience and their food is authentic and reasonably-priced. Their made-to-order guacamole will give your two avocados and fresh add-ins. The Yelp community gave El Patron 3 ½ stars, and their complaint was mediocre service.
#7. La Fiesta
La Fiesta is a true party! Their indoor/outdoor dining space has a vibrant, authentic atmosphere, and both their margaritas and salsa pack the perfect punch. Those who frequent La Fiesta love their 2 for 1 margaritas and Taco Tuesday specials. Plus, it got 4 stars on Yelp!
#8. Echalee
Among a large selection of customizable menu items, Echalee’s authentic Mexican Horchata, marinated chicken quesadilla and carne asada stand above the rest. Yelpers praised Echalee for great food and a loaded salsa bar, but gave the service mixed reviews. Its location on Tennessee St makes the restaurant easy to get to, but beware of the shenanigans that happen next door at The Strip, a series of bars that college kids flock to on weekend nights.
#9. Casa Grande
With great lunch and drink specials, a cozy atmosphere and authentic flavors, Casa Grande is a local favorite. Their salsa is fresh and service is friendly. Yelp gave them 4 stars. Try their super cheesy quesadillas and burritos or their famous Pollo Casa Grande.
#10. Chuys
We were thrilled when Tallahassee got a Chuy’s earlier this year. Although the restaurant is a chain, the atmosphere and food are one of a kind! Its flamboyant, spacious dining room makes it perfect for larger dinner parties. Yelpers raved about their queso and gave Chuy’s 4 out of 5 stars.
