Ever find yourself craving those bold, spicy flavors that only Mexican cuisine can deliver? Well, you’re in luck.
Thankfully, Philly’s got some great spots that bring the taste of Mexico right to your plate.
So, let’s explore the top places in the city where you’ll find the best Mexican food in Philadelphia.
TABLE OF CONTENTS 
1. Condesa & El Techo—Best for a Rooftop Dinner with a View
Located at 4443 Spruce Street, Condesa & El Techo offers much more than food—it’s a cool spot to unwind above the city.
A go-to for locals searching for a “Mexican restaurant near me” in Philadelphia, this place is known for its rooftop setting that’s great for a laid-back dinner with a view.
Whether you’re there for the tacos or the burritos, kids, and adults will find something to love while taking in the city skyline.
2. Don Barriga—Best for Family Dining
Also located at 4443 Spruce Street, Don Barriga sets the scene for laid-back, family-friendly dining.
With several locations across the city, Don Barriga is known for its cozy, welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy for families to feel at home.
Their delicious menu is a hit among the little ones, featuring everything from cheesy tacos to hearty burritos.
We say that it’s the quintessential spot for a relaxing family meal.
3. El Chingon—Best for Authentic Mexican Flavors
Located at 1524 S. 10th Street, El Chingon is the place in Philly for authentic Mexican flavors.
This cozy café is known for its Puebla-style cemitas and other traditional dishes that are hard to find elsewhere.
With Chef Carlos Aparicio, a James Beard Award nominee, El Chingon delivers the rich, authentic taste of Mexico City right to your plate—no travel required.
4. El Mezcal Cantina—Best for Margaritas and Mexican Specialties
Over at 1260 Point Breeze Avenue, El Mezcal Cantina is where the fun happens.
Famous for its lively atmosphere and killer margaritas, this spot has a menu that covers all the Mexican favorites.
Whether you’re digging into some zesty agua chile or scooping up freshly made guacamole, it’s the perfect place for a night out with a bit of extra flavor.
5. El Purepecha—Best for Comfort Mexican Food
When you’re in the mood for something comforting, head to El Purepecha at 315 N. 12th Street.
Locals love this spot for its ‘burrito mojado’ and warm, homey vibe.
It’s undoubtedly the go-to place for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying meal with authentic Mexican flavors—the kind that reminds you of a home-cooked meal.
6. El Vez—Best for a Fun Night Out
El Vez, located at 13th and Sansom, has a fun crowd and really tasty Mexican food.
The menu’s creative dishes, like Mexican-style pizzas and flavorful enchiladas, make it an excellent spot for dinner with friends.
It’s safe to say that this place has a lively but relaxed atmosphere, so it’s easy to enjoy a night out without feeling rushed or overly formal.
Thus, if you’re in the mood for good food and a laid-back vibe, El Vez is the place to go.
7. Tamalex Bar & Grill—Best for a Chill Night Out
Found in Headhouse Square, Tamalex Bar & Grill is the place to go when you want an easy, relaxed night with friends.
With tasty dishes like tamarind margaritas and chicken enchiladas, it’s a simple, comfortable spot to enjoy good food without any fuss—just good times in a cozy setting.
8. La Llorona Cantina—Best for Late-Night Eats
If you’re craving something tasty late at night, La Llorona Cantina in West Passyunk is the place to be.
Whether you’re stopping in for a mezcal or grabbing some late-night tacos, look no further than La Llorona Cantina.
With cochinita tacos and elote served in the early hours, it’s where night owls can enjoy great food without rushing home.
9. Casa Mexico—Best for Quick Bites in the Italian Market
Next on our list, Casa Mexico is the go-to spot for fast, flavorful Mexican bites in the heart of the bustling Italian Market.
Locals rave about this place as it’s perfect for grabbing a quick meal without skimping on flavor.
While seating is a bit tight, the bustling market atmosphere makes it all part of the fun, turning a quick bite into a lively experience.
10. Blue Corn Restaurant and Bar—Best for an Authentic Mexican Experience
Tucked away at 940 S 9th Street, Blue Corn feels like a little slice of Mexico right in Philly.
The menu contains traditional favorites, from rich mole to handmade tortillas, bringing genuine Mexican flavors to your table.
And it’s not just about the food—a welcoming vibe here makes it easy to settle in and enjoy.
If you’re after a spot that offers real, authentic Mexican cooking without the frills, Blue Corn is where you’ll want to be.
11. Taqueria Aguila—Best for a Family Day Out
Taqueria Aguila in Warminster is a spot where you can enjoy a meal and make a day of it with the family.
Why not grab some tasty tacos and crunchy chicharrones, then wander through the grocery section to pick up fresh ingredients for home?
It’s a relaxed, no-rush place where you can hang out, enjoy good food, and do a little shopping all in one go—perfect for keeping things simple and fun with the family.
12. El Primo Plaza—Best for Large Menu Selection
El Primo Plaza in Bensalem is ideal when you’re torn between cravings, as their huge menu has almost every Mexican dish you can think of. It’s like the Cheesecake Factory but with a Mexican twist.
This place has everything from rich moles to filling tortas, plus a bakery full of fresh pastries.
The real standout is the portion size: dishes are served in hearty servings, so you can enjoy multiple flavors in one meal or take home delicious leftovers.
13. South Philly Barbacoa—Best for Authentic Barbacoa
South Philly Barbacoa is the real deal when it comes to Barbacoa. They serve slow-cooked lamb until it’s fall-apart tender, and their tortillas are made fresh right there.
The straightforward approach emphasizes what matters most: top-notch ingredients and authentic Mexican flavor.
14. LMNO—Best for Modern Mexican Cuisine
LMNO isn’t your typical Mexican restaurant. It has a cool, retro 1970s vibe, and the food is anything but ordinary.
Chef Frankie Ramirez modernizes classic dishes, creating unexpected delights like fish tacos with a crispy beer batter and a decadent birria benedict.
So, if you’re looking for a delicious twist on Mexican classics, LMNO is worth checking out.
15. Las Bugambilias—Best for Traditional Mexican Decor
Las Bugambilias, one of the best Mexican restaurants in Philadelphia, feels like a little piece of Mexico tucked away on South Street. It has a warm, festive atmosphere, with colorful decorations everywhere.
And the food? You’ll find authentic dishes like chiles en nogada—a hit with the locals.
Come here to experience Mexico’s authentic flavors and spirit right in the heart of Philly.
16. Revolution Taco—Best for Innovative Tacos
Think you’ve tried every taco under the sun? Revolution Taco is here to prove you wrong. They’re unafraid to get creative, stuffing their tortillas with everything from duck confit to Korean BBQ pork.
Oh, and they even have a vegan option that’s just as delicious as the meaty ones.
If you want to expand your taco horizons, this is the place to do it, and you won’t be disappointed.
17. Cantina Los Caballitos—Best for Vegan Options
Okay, so Cantina Los Caballitos on East Passyunk is the place to be if you’re looking for a Mexican spot with something for everyone.
The icing on the cake: a whole section of the menu is dedicated to plant-based dishes, like jackfruit carnitas tacos and chipotle potato enchiladas—seriously, you won’t believe how good they are.
The atmosphere is always lively, whether you’re soaking up the sun on their patio or enjoying margaritas with friends.
18. Distrito—Best for a Vibrant Party Atmosphere
The moment you step inside, Distrito is a full-on fiesta. Its colorful luchador masks and upbeat music make it a fantastic place to celebrate a special occasion or just let loose with friends.
When it comes to food, let’s just say their tacos and margaritas are some of the best Mexican food in Philadelphia.
19. Lolita—Best for Tequila and Cocktails
Alright, so Lolita in Midtown Village is the place to be if you’re serious about your tequila.
They have an impressive selection and some seriously creative cocktails that go way beyond the usual margarita.
And hey, the food’s not just an afterthought either. Their modern Mexican cuisine is on point, with dishes like their signature guacamole and grilled octopus.
The atmosphere at Lolita is intimate, so it’s ideal for a date night or a special occasion.
20. Tequilas Restaurant—Best for Upscale Mexican Dining
Tequilas Restaurant is where you go to experience the finer side of Mexican cuisine, with dishes like the Filete Cantinflas (a perfectly cooked filet mignon with a smoky poblano pepper cream sauce) and the Camarones al Ajillo (succulent shrimp in a fragrant garlic and chile butter).
And their tequila selection is top-notch. Whether you pair it with your meal or just enjoy a few sips, you’re in for a treat.
Not to mention, the whole place has an elegant vibe that would complement a special occasion or a fancy night out. So, it’s undoubtedly one of the best high-end Mexican restaurants you’ll find in the city.
Discover Your New Favorite Mexican Restaurant in Philadelphia
After looking at the amazing variety of Mexican cuisine available in Philly—from the authentic classics at El Chingon to the festive atmosphere at El Vez—it’s clear that Philadelphia is a genuine hotspot for Mexican food lovers.
So why wait? Go and find your new favorite Mexican spot today!
