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Loved by locals

Authentic Mexican food in Saint Paul

A Mexican meal that honors traditional recipes instead of relying on Americanized shortcuts.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Tromperia El zac image 1
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Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and comfortable booths creates a welcoming, relaxed vibe. Interior features historic pictures and clean, attractive decor. Upbeat music adds energy while guests enjoy authentic al pastor tacos and flavorful margaritas.

Tacos al pastor stand out for their authentic flavor and freshness. The menu delivers fresh, tasty Mexican food that stays true to traditional recipes.

Offers authentic Mexican food with al pastor en trompo, a rare find. Tacos and burritos stand out, with fabulous guacamole complementing the dishes.

People are saying

"I found the birria tacos here to be amazing."

"The al pastor here is juicy, well-marinated, and authentically spit-roasted."

"I found the al pastor to be authentic and juicy with a little char."

Good to know

1

The restaurant accepts cash only for tips; no card payments for tips.

2

Parking can be challenging due to ongoing construction in the area.

3

The establishment maintains a clean environment with an open kitchen.

02
Carnitas don Tacho image 1

Small, authentic Mexican eatery with best carnitas in Minnesota and perfect salsas. Atmosphere is busy and crowded on weekends, reflecting strong local demand. Offers affordable prices and a clean, humble setting that feels true to Mexican street food.

Bold, authentic flavors capture the style of Michoacán in every dish. Carnitas and tacos deliver a legit Mexican taste that reminds of hometown meals in Mexico.

Juicy, flavorful carnitas tacos come in generous portions with care in every bite. Authentic salsas rate a perfect 10, and the torta with tripe and skin tastes best hot, capturing the spirit of roadside Jalisco taquerías.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was the best ever."

"I found the carnitas to be the best Mexican food in town."

"I found the food to be authentic, with bold flavors."

Good to know

1

Prices are affordable, with six tacos costing about $20 without drinks.

2

Expect longer wait times during dinner hours, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant often runs out of burgers during lunch, so arrive early.

03
La Morelense Restaurant and Sweets image 1

Fresh flowers on every table create a welcoming atmosphere with a laid back vibe and cute decor. The menu features authentic Mexican dishes like birria tacos and menudo, praised for their flavor and preparation. Plenty of parking and a small kitchen support a casual, neighborhood dining experience.

Mexican food here tastes truly authentic and delicious. The dishes capture real flavors close to traditional recipes.

Burritos here are big and packed, while tacos come with two tortillas for extra crunch and are perfectly seasoned. Menudo, birria tacos, and quesabirria stand out as authentic and flavorful dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

"The birria tacos and pork carnitas burrito are delicious."

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

Good to know

1

They have daily specials posted on the wall.

2

There is plenty of parking available nearby.

3

Expect a technology fee added to your bill.

04
EL CHARRITO TAQUERÍA image 1
Taco restaurant

Small taco restaurant offers authentic Mexican food with a friendly atmosphere and good music. An open salsa bar with six salsas ranging from mild to hot stands out. The space feels cozy, suitable for casual dining with friends or a romantic booth.

Food features authentic Mexican flavors with fresh ingredients and street taco style. Prices stay reasonable in a small neighborhood setting.

Tacos come with a variety of meat options like tripa, steak, chicken, and Al Pastor, all packed with bold flavor and spice. The salsas and relishes add a fresh, flavorful kick that complements the dishes perfectly.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was authentic and delicious."

"I thought the tacos here were the best I had anywhere."

"I found the food to be authentic and very tasty."

Good to know

1

Weekday specials are available from Monday to Thursday.

2

Reservations are required two days in advance for large orders.

3

The restaurant has a small parking lot available.

05
Marquez Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small dining area with a fun interior creates a cozy, home-like vibe reminiscent of Mexico. Fresh salsa bar and fresh ingredients highlight the food, which includes best-in-state carnitas and affordable prices. The atmosphere feels welcoming and lively, making it a standout for Mexican cuisine.

Food shows authentic flavors and is cooked perfectly. Every dish tastes genuine and well-prepared.

Carnitas stand out as some of the best in the area, paired well with a self-serve salsa buffet that adds variety. Tacos de asada come with homemade corn tortillas, and burritos like the Ranchero and baby chicken options deliver strong flavors with perfect sauces.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and made with fresh ingredients."

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

"The authentic food here tasted great and was cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

2

Expect a little longer wait for dishes compared to fast food.

3

Two orders of enchiladas and tacos cost roughly $50.

06
Lulu's Salsas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright space with ample seating and a warm, friendly vibe hosts a mix of casual diners enjoying authentic Mexican street tacos and flavorful burritos. Soccer games play softly over the radio, adding to the small town family atmosphere. The setting feels clean but still developing its personality.

Tacos and the tingo chicken burrito stand out with Mexican rice, pico de Gallo, and guacamole. The food delivers a consistently authentic Mexican flavor.

Breakfast burritos come tightly packed with perfectly cooked eggs, meat, beans, and cheese, plus guacamole on the side. Tacos like carne asada and al pastor are extremely flavorful and authentic, with salsas that add a delicious kick.

People are saying

"I loved the flavorful al pastor and steak tacos."

"I thought the breakfast burritos were the best I ever had."

"I found the Mexican food here to be truly authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Lulu's Salsas operates on counter service; order and receive an order number.

2

Parking is available in the lot for customers.

3

They offer breakfast all day, providing a variety of options.

07
Homi Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, casual Mexican restaurant with an intimate, cozy atmosphere and a calm, welcoming vibe. Regulars come for authentic Mexican food and best birria tacos, enjoying freshly cooked dishes in a modest setting. The space feels like a family-owned spot with few tables seating small groups.

Bold flavors define the authentic tacos and handmade dishes here. Fresh ingredients create genuine Mexican food with a uniquely amazing taste.

Birria tacos stand out with their rich consomme and crispy fried shells packed with flavor. Fresh guacamole and authentic bold flavors complete the Mexican food experience here.

People are saying

"These birria tacos are the best Mexican food I've ever had."

"The Sunday buffet is an amazing family-style brunch."

"I found the authentic Mexican food here to be amazing."

Good to know

1

The Sunday Brunch is available from 10 AM to 3 PM for $19.

2

On Sundays, the owners offer a Mexican Buffet from 10 AM to 3 PM.

3

Expect limited parking behind the building, which is very small.

08
Taco'n Madre Taqueria Y Cevicheria image 1

Small dining room with a cute outdoor patio creates a casual, authentic vibe. Karaoke and DJ music bring lively energy but can get loud, affecting conversation. Known for outstanding tacos and birria, it feels like a hidden gem with a fun, informal atmosphere.

Food shows authentic Mexican flavors with tacos Al pastor and high-quality ceviche standing out. The atmosphere matches the genuine vibe of the cuisine.

Tacos stand out with tacos al pastor and birria de res praised for their authentic flavors. Fresh guacamole, excellent salsa, and chimichangas add to the solid Mexican food lineup.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was authentic and delicious."

"You have to try the birria tacos; they're to die for."

"I found the Mexican food here to be amazing and super authentic."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens every weekend with a two-drink minimum.

2

Taco specials are available every Monday.

3

Street parking is easy to find near the restaurant.

09
Red Luna Seasons image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a cozy vintage interior and outdoor terrace featuring historic local photos. Atmosphere feels warm and fun, blending casual and nostalgic vibes. Offers authentic Mexican dishes alongside a variety of margaritas, creating a lively yet comfortable dining experience.

Food features authentic Mexican and Salvadoran flavors with dishes that stay true to traditional recipes. The menu includes Latin and American cuisine prepared with care and consistency.

Tacos stand out with options like shrimp street tacos and build-your-own choices. Burritos come smothered in a sauce close to Colorado Green Chile. Dishes like birria tacos, fajitas, and carnita nachos offer authentic Mexican flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is wonderful and incredibly flavorful."

"This Mexican food is surprisingly delicious and flavorful."

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

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers 2 tacos for $3.75 with various meat options.

2

Happy hour features BOG1/2Off Margaritas.

3

Different food deals are available every day from Monday to Saturday.

10
La Cabaña image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space offers a cozy ambiance with a welcoming atmosphere. Menu features a large selection of Mexican dishes, including notable seafood options and flavorful sauces. Street vendors sometimes interact with diners, adding an unusual dynamic to the setting.

Mexican dishes here taste very authentic and stay true to traditional flavors. The food feels delicious and genuine, making it a solid choice for anyone craving real Mexican cuisine.

Authentic Mexican food shines through dishes like burritos, red sauce enchiladas, and taco bowls with chicken. Free chips and salsa start the meal, and sides like guacamole and tortas add tasty variety.

People are saying

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

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

"I had the best burrito I ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Parking is often full; consider street parking as an alternative.

2

Prices at the restaurant are generally higher than average.

3

Expect a large selection of food and drink options available.

11
Hamburguesas El Gordo #3 image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small space with old school Latino vibe and old pictures on walls creates a welcoming feel. Atmosphere is warm and smoky, filled with smells of fresh vegetables and spices. Music adds to the experience while seating remains limited.

Tacos and other dishes come fast and taste authentic with strong Mexican street food vibes. The menu focuses on traditional flavors that stand out in the area.

Tacos stand out with birria and flour tortillas leading the way. Options include vegan tacos, burritos, and elotes, all served fresh and juicy with friendly service.

People are saying

"I found the burgers here to be very satisfying and flavorful."

"The Mexican food here is packed with flavor and perfectly seasoned."

"I found the tacos here to be authentic and sooo good."

Good to know

1

Street parking is available, but limited; there's a small lot behind for three cars.

2

The restaurant is women-owned, which may appeal to some visitors.

3

Expect uncomfortable dining conditions during summer due to broken air conditioning.

12
Gorditas El Durango image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a family atmosphere with colorful traditional decor and sturdy, older furniture. The vibe feels homey and community-oriented, creating a comfortable setting. The place features plastic cutlery and simple, no-frills service.

Food offers authentic Mexican flavor with top-notch tacos and gorditas. The taste stays true to traditional recipes.

Gorditas stand out with flavorful meat and a spicy orange sauce that complements them well. Fresh flour tortillas with chicharrones add a crispy touch, alongside authentic menudo and burrito ranchero options.

People are saying

"The Mexican food, especially the gorditas, is super delicious and flavorful."

"The salsa here is seriously hot, a lovely heated kiss."

"The food here has such an authentic Mexican flavor."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 30-35 minutes after placing an order.

2

Gorditas are served without vegetables, only pickled options available.

3

Prices are inexpensive, with gorditas costing around $4 each.

13
Taqueria Los Paisanos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy Mexican restaurant with a casual, unpretentious vibe and multicultural atmosphere. Offers affordable, authentic cuisine with counter service and booth seating. Space feels rundown but carries a charming, family-run feel.

Authentic Mexican tacos cook right before you on a grill. The food is inexpensive and delicious, capturing true Mexican flavors.

Authentic tacos like al pastor, birria, and steak come fresh off the grill. Burritos and chips with guacamole are also affordable and satisfying.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"I found the best tacos and Mexican dishes in the neighborhood."

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

Good to know

1

Free parking is available, but it can get tight during peak hours.

2

Prices are very reasonable, making it an affordable dining option.

3

The menu can be unclear, so ask about dish details before ordering.

14
La Cucaracha Mexican Restaurante image 1

Mexican restaurant with a laid back atmosphere and a warm family feel that transports guests to Mexico. A quaint bar offers a top notch margarita experience with fresh lime and a good tequila selection. The environment feels welcoming and comfy, making it a neighborhood jewel.

Good, authentic food comes with a fresh lime squeeze Margarita that feels genuine. The atmosphere feels like a relaxing spot in Cabo San Lucas, adding to the authentic vibe.

Carnitas tacos and puerco guisado stand out with rich flavors. Crispy flautas, banana leaf wrapped tamales, and chicken enchiladas add variety. The salsa and chips are notably fresh, paired well with bullfighter margaritas and sangrias.

People are saying

"The owner Eddie made me feel like family."

"I thought the carnitas tacos were amazing."

"The food here is so authentic, it reminded me of Mexico."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Taco Tuesday features $1 tacos all day long.

3

A lunch buffet starts in September, available on weekends.

15
Mañana Salvadoran Restaurant image 1
Salvadoran restaurant

Salvadoran restaurant offers a chill atmosphere with comfortable seating and a shaded back patio ideal for outdoor dining. Tables feature nice decorations that create an immersive vibe reminiscent of El Salvador. The kitchen's karaoke adds a lively, informal touch to the experience.

Pupusas made with rice flour deliver authentic flavor. Chilaquiles and other dishes stay true to traditional Salvadoran recipes with flavorful, authentic tastes.

Street tacos come with fresh corn tortillas and authentic flavors like pollo, asada, and al pastor. Chilaquiles taste authentic and delicious, and the salsas range from mild to hot, all well made.

People are saying

"The carne asada tacos are so flavorful and delicious."

"The food here is authentic and delicious."

"The chilaquiles here are authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

An 18% gratuity is added to bills for parties over 5.

2

Parking can be tricky, especially during peak hours.

3

The restaurant serves both Salvadoran and Mexican dishes.

16
Habanero Tacos Grill & Bar image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, clean space with an industrial feel and spacious layout including booths, high tops, and a long bar. Atmosphere feels authentic and neighborhood-oriented, with many regulars and a casual pace. Multiple TVs show sports, creating a lively backdrop during busy times.

Food matches what you'd find at an authentic Mexican taco truck with fish tacos standing out. The menu offers authentic Mexican cuisine that tastes genuine and delicious.

Tacos here stand out, especially the quesabirria and birria tacos. House-made salsas, agua de horchata, and micheladas add authentic Mexican flavors. Burritos and flautas also deliver solid taste.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

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

"I found the food to be authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens every Friday and Saturday starting at 9pm.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

3

Expect a $5 cover charge for karaoke nights.

17
Panadería y Cafeteria El Quetzal image 1

Modern setup combines with a tiny bakery filled with authentic Guatemalan foods and great music. Atmosphere feels fun and lively, with massive portions and a variety of Central American dishes. Self-service style and unique condiments like chilero add to the distinct experience.

Tiny bakery packed with authentic Guatemalan and Latin American foods. Offers authentic South Central and South American dishes with noticeable wait times for preparation.

Carnitas stand out as exceptional and flavorful. The menu includes al pastor burritos, street tacos, pork tamales, chicken chomin, and steak quesadillas, often served with rice and beans.

People are saying

"I found the bread here to be really tasty."

"I loved the authentic Latin American food here."

"I thought the carnitas were exceptional."

Good to know

1

You must serve yourself; no food is brought to your table.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of dishes from different Central American countries.

3

Chilero is a unique condiment not commonly found in Minnesota.

18
Cancun Mexican Grill & Cantina image 1

Cantina style space with two seating areas creates a less crowded feel. Atmosphere ranges from relaxed to lively with loud music and multiple TVs showing sports. Drinks stand out, especially margaritas served with fruit popsicles, adding a unique twist to the bar experience.

Food here lacks authentic Mexican flavors and does not match traditional cuisine standards. It leans more toward Americanized versions rather than true Mexican dishes.

Tacos al pastor and quesa birria tacos stand out with rich, authentic flavors. Fresh, house-made guacamole and browned carnitas add depth, while burritos and bowls come hot and well-seasoned.

People are saying

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

"The margaritas here are great, served with a fruit popsicle on top."

"The quesa birria tacos here are legitimately great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers free chips and half-price appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Taco Tuesday special features three tacos for $9.99.

3

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

19
Casa Azul Agave Authentic Mexican Restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant with very loud music and a hot, stuffy atmosphere. Serves authentic dishes like street tacos and aguachile that stand out for quality. Pricing includes hidden costs that affect the overall experience.

Tacos and plates deliver real authentic Mexican food with bold flavors and traditional preparation. Some dishes arrive cold with unmelted cheese, affecting the overall authenticity.

Tacos stand out with authentic flavors and fresh, bright ingredients that recall traditional Mexican street food. The tres leches cake and horchata offer rich, homemade-style sweetness. Burritos with carnitas and queso add a hearty touch to the menu.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the tacos."

"I found the food delicious and authentic, with no added sugar."

"The fish tacos with chipotle sauce were so enjoyable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant charges $4.00 per taco, despite menu prices being $3.50.

2

There is a $0.99 charge for to-go orders.

3

A $4.00 fee applies for using a debit card.

20
Taqueria Los Ocampo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic food with a wide salsa bar and late-night hours until 3 or 4 AM. Atmosphere shifts from calm and casual during the day to crowded and lively at night. Decor feels family friendly and comfortable.

Mexican food here is authentic with good portions and affordable prices. Tacos and burritos stand out as genuine Latin dishes that taste pretty tasty overall.

Tacos stand out with quesabirra and beef barbacoa quesadillas delivering authentic flavors. Portions come with three types of salsas and sauces, making the Mexican food both genuine and satisfying.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is authentic, affordable, and delicious."

"I thought the Mexican food here was the best."

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

Good to know

1

Taqueria Los Ocampo closes at 4 AM on Saturdays, making it a late-night option.

2

The restaurant offers a limited menu after 1:30 AM, so plan accordingly.

3

Tacos cost $2.50 each on Thursdays, providing a budget-friendly option.

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