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Top picks in Downtown

Salsa spots

Mexican food with salsa that actually brings the heat instead of the bland, pre-packaged options that usually come to the table.

Based on 530 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Los Weyes de la Asada image 1
Los Weyes de la Asada image 2
Los Weyes de la Asada image 3
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Taco restaurant

Food truck park offers authentic atmosphere with live mariachi music and a playground for kids. Seating includes benches with umbrellas and views of the river. The vibe is welcoming and lively, attracting those seeking flavorful tacos in a casual setting.

Tacos stand out as some of the best ever tasted, especially the carne asada taco and the taco mamรณn. Tortas and papa chingon also feature prominently as favorites in authentic Mexican food offerings.

Salsas here bring out incomparable flavor with fresh, homemade tortillas and perfectly seasoned meats. The combination of grilled pineapple and a signature mesquite aroma adds a unique touch to each dish.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were among the best I ever tasted."

"The Mexican food here has this amazing smoky flavor from the charcoal grill."

"The salsa here is flavorful and spicy."

Good to know

1

The food truck is open seven days a week for convenient access.

2

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Prices for street tacos are around $7 each.

02
Carnitas Don Raรบl image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with industrial design and packed tables creates a lively, inviting atmosphere. Guests enjoy a self-serve salsa bar and cold aluminum cups for well-crafted Palomas and mezcaladas. The vibe stays laid-back with friendly staff and a focus on best carnitas in town.

Carnitas stand out as the most notable dish here, often described as the best ever tasted in the area. The torta also receives strong praise alongside consistently excellent Mexican food offerings.

A salsa bar stays neat and well stocked throughout service. The salsa Verde pairs well with rich carnitas. Both salsa and guacamole taste fresh and flavorful.

People are saying

"I thought the carnitas here were the best I've ever had."

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

"The carnitas here are tender and packed with delicious pork."

Good to know

1

Carnitas Don Raรบl closes at 5 PM.

2

Expect long lines on weekends; arrive early to avoid waiting.

3

The restaurant now has a dining area with air conditioning.

03
Papos Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open sky with a downtown view sets a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere enhanced by live music and interactive games. Evening crowds enjoy authentic Mexican street tacos known for their rich flavor and generous portions. Complimentary salsas and great value prices distinguish the experience.

Tacos stand out with rich birria flavor and meat-loaded mini tacos that deliver solid taste. Gorditas and quesadillas also offer well-cooked carne asada and satisfying fillings.

Three different kinds of salsas come with good spice and flavor. Complimentary salsas enhance the spice, but portions are small, so asking for more is common.

People are saying

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

"These tacos are the perfect late night snack."

"I loved the savory, stuffed tacos; they were so worth it."

Good to know

1

Papos Tacos is open Thursday to Saturday evenings.

2

Bring cash as credit card acceptance is unclear.

3

No restrooms are available unless you're 21 or older.

04
Cafe Alameda image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy Mexican restaurant offers a quiet, welcoming atmosphere with authentic Latinx decor. The place serves scratch-made dishes featuring house-made tortillas and flavorful salsas, creating a straightforward and genuine dining experience.

Breakfast tacos stand out with house-made tortillas and homemade serrano salsa. Chicken tortilla soup and huevos rancheros offer authentic flavors with generous portions.

Homemade salsas bring a spicy kick with the serrano and green varieties standing out. The green salsa is surprisingly spicy and pairs well with corn tortillas, though chips and salsa come at an extra cost.

People are saying

"The homemade tortillas here are amazing and taste like Grandma's."

"The homemade salsa has a spicy kick."

"The breakfast tacos here are amazing, especially with the warm tortillas."

Good to know

1

No alcohol is served at Cafe Alameda.

2

The restaurant only serves breakfast and lunch.

3

They offer daily lunch plates and provide the option to ask for your beverage in a cup to go.

05
Tejas Birria- El Camino image 1
Mexican restaurant

Food truck setup with outdoor covered seating creates a casual, inviting space. Atmosphere stays relaxed and social, especially in the late afternoon with friendly service. Small playground adds a family-friendly touch.

Birria tacos come in four big portions with an exceptionally good broth for dipping. The menu includes birria ramen and birria pizza, both praised for their unique and delicious takes on traditional flavors.

Green salsa stands out with a lime avocado flavor that pairs well with dishes. Salsas here are very good and spicy, complementing items like the birria quesadilla perfectly.

People are saying

"The birria here is juicy, cheesy, and absolutely amazing."

"The birria ramen here has such good flavors."

"The birria here is exceptional, making every dish a memorable feast."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited and can be hard to find, especially during busy hours.

2

Prices are on the higher side, but the portion sizes are generous.

3

No alcohol is served at this location, which may be a downside for some.

06
El Nogal Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, family-owned Mexican restaurant with homemade corn tortillas and authentic, flavorful tacos. Atmosphere is basic and unpretentious, with reasonable prices and a quiet vibe during off-peak hours. Popular for hearty breakfast tacos and well-balanced dishes like carne guisada.

Breakfast tacos come loaded and hot with flavorful guisada and spicy salsa. Homemade and pressed corn tortillas shine in tacos and enchiladas, which taste authentic and fresh.

Salsa comes out quickly with the chips and drinks. The green salsa is muy buena and the regular salsa is spicy.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, hot, and delicious."

"The Mexican food here is fresh and amazing."

"The salsa here is amazing and fresh."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is a family-owned local business.

2

The prices are affordable with generous portions.

3

Expect a casual atmosphere with no frills.

07
El Castillo Mexican Restaurant image 1

Small storefront with high ceilings and authentic Mexican decor creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Mexican music adds to the relaxed vibe, making it a good spot for breakfast or lunch. The space feels homey and down to earth, distinct from tourist-heavy areas.

Breakfast tacos come in large sizes with affordable prices around $2.15 each. The menu features authentic Mexican dishes like Huevos Rancheros, barbacoa, and Birria tacos made with handmade tortillas.

Green hot salsa stands out with its spicy kick that makes the nose run. Chips come with a thin salsa that has spot on flavor.

People are saying

"I loved the flavorful breakfast tacos and fresh ingredients."

"You have to try the puffy tacos; they're the best I've ever had."

"I loved the delicious food here; it's never a mistake."

Good to know

1

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

2

Prices are affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.

3

The restaurant is located near the touristy Riverwalk area.

08
Rita's on the River image 1

Restaurant offers great views of the Riverwalk with a loud, hectic, and fun atmosphere energized by an outstanding DJ. Guests enjoy top-notch margaritas and some of the best guacamole, queso, and tacos around.

Fresh guacamole stands out with a vibrant, authentic taste. Refried beans carry a traditional Mexican style, rich and hearty. Tacos and queso also deliver strong, memorable flavors.

Salsa here stays true to Mexican roots with authentic seasonings and fresh flavors. It pairs well with top notch guac and street tacos, making it a solid choice for classic tastes.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and came out fast and hot."

"The Mexican food here is on point, especially the stuffed Poblano."

"The salsa here is really good, definitely homemade."

Good to know

1

Rita's on the River offers a 10% discount for military personnel.

2

Expect high prices, with tacos costing around $18 for four.

3

The kitchen may run out of popular menu items like pork and quesadillas.

09
Poblanos Mexican Restaurant and Catering image 1

Mexican restaurant with retro decor and a cozy, inviting atmosphere featuring live country western music. The space balances pleasant music volume and warm service, attracting a crowd for breakfast and lunch with fresh, authentic dishes and strong, well-crafted margaritas.

Tacos stand out with authentic flavors and tender fillings like barbacoa and carne guisada. Breakfast tacos come in perfect portions, and the green salsa on enchiladas adds a fresh, vibrant touch.

Warm salsa comes with a spicy kick that stands out from typical cold versions. The green salsa pairs well with eggs and enchiladas, offering a well-seasoned, flavorful option, while the red salsa tastes more ketchupy and tomato-y.

People are saying

"The breakfast tacos here have incredible, fresh tortillas."

"These breakfast tacos are a great start to the day."

"The homemade salsas here are delicious."

Good to know

1

Sunday is menudo day, offering a special dish for visitors.

2

The restaurant closes at 2 pm from Monday to Wednesday.

3

Poblanos is open until 7 pm from Thursday to Saturday.

10
Mala Fama Bar & Nightclub image 1

Bar with balcony patio overlooking riverwalk offers a cool atmosphere with live DJs upstairs creating great vibes. The space combines air conditioning and awesome decor for a comfortable, trendy spot to enjoy music and drinks.

Generous portions like the 1-pound chicken fajitas easily feed four. Street tacos de pastor and rich queso stand out, paired with affordable margaritas and a solid drink selection.

Salsa comes in green and red varieties with a fresh, authentic taste and just the right kick. It pairs well with chips, tacos, and quesadillas.

People are saying

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

"The Riverwalk views from up here are awesome."

"I found the salsa here to be delicious and a great start to the night."

Good to know

1

Karaoke nights happen every Thursday starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

2

Taco Tuesday features $2 tacos and drink specials all night.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

11
Cafe Ole image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating along the riverwalk offers shaded trees, fans, and live mariachi music creating a relaxing atmosphere. Views of the river and people passing by add to the calm, enjoyable vibe. The place draws those looking to unwind with margaritas and authentic Mexican flavors.

Street tacos offer a free and heavenly taste with fresh fish options. Enchiladas verdes stand out as the best experienced, paired with salsa that has the right amount of spice.

Salsa comes fresh and full of flavor with the right amount of spice. Chips arrive in a large amount and pair well with the fresh, flavorful salsa.

People are saying

"The nice view of the riverwalk was beautiful."

"The smoked brisket tacos here are so good."

"Gina's drinks were amazing and perfectly presented."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 5 pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Kids eat free with an adult entrรฉe purchase.

3

The restaurant is located on the River Walk, offering scenic views.

12
Agave Bar image 1
Mexican restaurant

Riverside setting offers beautiful views and shady outdoor seating along the walk. Atmosphere stays relaxing and family friendly with live mariachi music enhancing the vibe. The space combines great decor with a peaceful, inviting environment.

Sizzling hot fajitas stand out with a mixed fajita plate and chicken flautas offering solid options. The queso and guacamole pair well with chips, while the cucumber watermelon margarita complements the roasted street corn and cheese enchiladas.

Salsa arrives quickly with chips and has a nice kick. It stands out as tasty and amazing compared to others.

People are saying

"The food suggestions were great and the service was amazing."

"Josh was so friendly and checked in on us."

"The salsa here is great, truly to die for."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials offer discounted drinks and bar food.

2

Seating is available directly on the riverwalk for a scenic view.

3

Expect high prices for food and drinks, which may not match the quality.

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