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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Downtown's best

Mexican food spots

A craving for authentic Mexican food is hard to ignore once it sets in. The combination of familiar spices and fresh ingredients is exactly what is required.

Based on 592 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
CRUDA Mariscos & Oyster Bar image 1
CRUDA Mariscos & Oyster Bar image 2
CRUDA Mariscos & Oyster Bar image 3
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Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant with modern style and traditional Mexican energy creates a cool, inviting atmosphere. Live music, including guitar performances, adds a lively, vibrant vibe. Outdoor seating and open tall tables offer a comfortable space for enjoying fresh seafood and well-crafted drinks.

Food comes straight from Hermosillo, Mexico, ensuring freshness and authentic Mexican flavors. Dishes are consistently delicious and hearty, offering a satisfying experience every time.

Tacos stand out with smoky marlin and perfectly cooked shrimp covered in a stunning sauce. The shrimp ceviche tostada and oysters add variety, while the prickly pear margarita features a taji chamoy rim that catches attention.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The Mexican food here is amazing, and Jorge's service is outstanding."

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Oysters are available for $1.95 on Thursdays.

2

Happy hour offers daily specials, but details vary.

3

Parking across the street costs $4, making it affordable.

02
Elliott's on Congress image 1

Restaurant combines laid-back vibe with an upscale atmosphere without pretension. Music includes amateur mariachi singers and a curated playlist, enhancing the open neighborhood feel. Bar area often gets overcrowded, especially around a short bar and small patio seating.

Food here is unique bar fare with dishes like duck tacos and s'mores cheesecake. The kitchen serves fresh, tasty meals quickly, even late into the night, with pricing that matches the quality.

Chicken quesadilla stands out as a favorite dish. Duck tacos and cod tacos also get strong mentions for their flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, especially the burgers and fries."

"The bar serves martinis with six olives and plenty of olive brine."

"I loved the duck tacos; they were a must-try."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

Karaoke starts at 10pm on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

3

Elliott's keeps the kitchen open until closing time for late-night snacks.

03
Street- Taco and Beer Co. image 1

Industrial-style space with large open windows creates a noisy, lively atmosphere blending casual dining and sports bar vibes. Free chip and salsa bar and dog-friendly patio add to the relaxed, social setting. True street tacos served fresh with a variety of options define the food experience.

Food comes out fresh and flavorful with authentic Mexican street style. Service is quick, making it easy to grab great food without a long wait.

Street tacos come with fresh, high-quality fillings like fish, chicken, and shredded beef. The chip and salsa bar offers amazing salsa and hot chips that complement the tacos well.

People are saying

"I found the street tacos here amazing and delicious."

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is delicious and flavorful."

"I found the food here to be fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

On Taco Tuesdays, tacos cost $2 each, including various options.

2

Happy hour offers 5 tacos for $10 during specific hours.

3

The restaurant closes at 7pm, despite online listings stating 9pm.

04
The Leo Kent Hotel, Tucson, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel image 1

Hotel offers sophisticated design and upscale furnishings with modern features throughout. Atmosphere stays peaceful and classy, supported by thick walls that block noise. Guests find walkable downtown access convenient, with a stylish bar and dining area enhancing the experience.

Ceviche stands out with its Aguachile style and crispy sweet potato strings, offering unique flavors and textures. The prix fixe menu pairs well with thoughtful service and a caring atmosphere that enhances the dining experience.

Huevos Rancheros stand out with bold flavors. Steak street tacos feature a perfect marinade and searing. Ceviche offers unique textures and flavors, even for those who usually avoid shrimp.

People are saying

"The hotel's location is fantastic, perfectly downtown with restaurants nearby."

"The food here is pretty good, especially the salmon."

"The Mexican food here is so authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

They do not accept cash at the bar, only cards.

2

Self parking costs $32 per night.

3

The bar closes at 10 PM on Saturdays.

05
The Neighborhood Bar DWTN image 1

Bar and grill combines sports bar energy with club-like bass music upstairs and offers downtown city views from the second floor. Atmosphere feels chill yet lively, with many TVs showing MMA and other sports. Crowd enjoys affordable drinks and tasty food, including standout margaritas and street tacos.

Food here is fresh and delicious, served hot and quickly. The menu offers exotic and unique bar food that exceeds typical standards.

Carne asada tacos with homemade corn tortillas stand out alongside street tacos and BLT burritos. Margaritas, especially the nomames variety, complement dishes like buffalo chicken salad, fried shrimp tacos, and mango habanero wings.

People are saying

"Vero, the bartender, made me feel so welcome and remembered my drinks."

"The bartender Vero made me feel so welcome and was great."

"The Mexican Food here is great; the staff is super friendly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 8 PM with various specials.

2

Wings are 5 for $5 during happy hour.

3

Expect a crowded atmosphere during major sports events.

06
Iguana Cafe & Bar image 1

Cozy Mexican restaurant with a quiet lunch atmosphere that shifts to lively evenings with karaoke and live music. The space feels relaxing and comfortable, suited for small groups or solo visits. Affordable prices and good quality food and drinks define the experience.

Mexican food comes out hot and freshly made with authentic flavors. Prices stay affordable while the food and service remain solid.

Mexican food here features a burrito mojado with red sauce and a shredded beef torta that stand out. The quesadilla and chimichanga come with a salsa that has a nice kick.

People are saying

"The food here was excellent and freshly made."

"The staff here makes you feel so welcomed at this lunch spot."

"The Mexican food here is delicious and yummy."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging for non-locals, so plan ahead.

2

Karaoke night is popular and happens weekly, attracting a lively crowd.

3

The restaurant offers free wifi for customers.

07
St Cruz at The Leo Kent image 1
American restaurant

Upscale American restaurant with dimmed lighting and beautiful decoration creates an intimate, welcoming atmosphere blending New York sophistication and Western charm. Large bar area complements the stylish dining space. Guests enjoy a relaxed vibe suitable for romantic or family occasions.

Food here is consistently delicious and excellent. Servers offer great recommendations and quick service, making dining smooth and enjoyable.

Guacamole stands out as exceptionally fresh and flavorful. Tacos come in several varieties like halibut street tacos, pork belly, chicken, and steak, all with juicy, rich meat. Elote fries add a tasty twist to the menu.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and made me feel like I was in heaven."

"The bar staff are always welcoming and kind."

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is so delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially before events.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait for food during peak hours.

3

Prices are on the higher side, with meals averaging around $30.

08
Tucson Antojitos image 1
Dessert shop

Bright, open space with kid-friendly play area and upstairs gaming loft creates a fun, family-oriented atmosphere. Music and clean design add to the chill, inviting vibe. The environment suits families looking for a relaxed place where kids can play safely.

Food offers amazing flavors and is consistently delicious. Prices stay great while delivering tasty dishes.

Flautas birria and queso birria Sonoran style hot dog stand out with rich flavors. Drinks like Aqua Fresca Horchata and cucumber lime agua fresca add refreshing touches.

People are saying

"It's a great kid-friendly place with a play area."

"I found the food here to be delicious and amazing."

"I found the Sonoran hot dogs and queso birria hot dogs delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is family-friendly with a designated play area for kids.

2

Expect higher prices due to the downtown location and overhead costs.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment, including the kids' area.

09
DoubleTree by Hilton Tucson Downtown Convention Center image 1

Hotel offers modern, spacious rooms with comfortable seating and beautiful mountain views. Atmosphere stays quiet and welcoming with clean, airy public spaces and a relaxed bar vibe. Amenities include a heated pool, Jacuzzi, and well-equipped fitness center.

Two bars serve happy hour with delicious bar food like homemade salsa, guacamole, street tacos, and an El Mez Burger. The restaurant offers tasty dishes alongside a lively bar scene.

Breakfast features fluffy omelets, chorizo, and large breakfast burritos with fajita veggies. Dinner offers lighter options like salads, fajitas, and chimichangas, plus a special taco night with shredded beef and shrimp tacos. Bars serve homemade salsa, guacamole, street tacos, and drinks like dark and stormies with queso fundido.

People are saying

"The hotel staff, especially Patrick, was outstanding and accommodating."

"The Mexican food here is fresh, clean, and has comfortable beds."

"I got warm cookies and extra water to go!"

Good to know

1

Parking costs $20 per night, which is not disclosed until after booking.

2

The hotel operates on a cashless system; only card payments are accepted.

3

Finding parking can be difficult, especially during events at the convention center.

10
Restaurante Mex-Sal image 1
Salvadoran restaurant

Tacos stand out with quesabirria considered the best around and avocado salsa adding fresh flavor. The spot offers unique Salvadoran items like platanos and yuca alongside Sonora hot dogs with a spicy salsa blend. Service runs slower than promised, but prices stay reasonable for the quality.

Fresh, authentic flavors define the menu with consistently delicious food that smells inviting. Options vary, and the food is worth the wait for its excellent quality.

Tacos stand out with avocado salsa and a spicy red sauce on the side. The carne asada plate includes three tacos and rice, while the quesabirria and Sonora hot dog bring a good spice kick from their salsas.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and very good."

"The quesabirria from these food trucks is the best I've ever had."

"I found the Mexican food here to be delicious and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $15 for a meal, which some may find pricey.

2

The food truck offers unique items like platanos and yuca not found elsewhere.

3

Reservations are not required, but it's best to arrive early to avoid long waits.

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