10 Mouthwatering Mexican Restaurants in Memphis You Can’t Miss

Memphis might be famous for barbecue, but its Mexican food scene is absolutely sizzling! From family-owned taquerias to upscale dining experiences, the Bluff City offers authentic flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to Mexico. Whether you’re craving street-style tacos, bubbling queso fundido, or perfect house-made margaritas, these ten Mexican restaurants deliver unforgettable meals that locals can’t stop raving about.

1. Los Comales Mexican Bar & Grill

Family-owned Los Comales brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico to Memphis with recipes passed down through generations. Their colorful dining room buzzes with energy as plates of sizzling fajitas and authentic mole dishes make their way to eager diners.

The house specialty is their molcajete – a volcanic stone bowl filled with grilled meats, nopales, and melted cheese that arrives steaming hot at your table. Regulars swear by their handmade tortillas, which provide the perfect vehicle for their slow-cooked carnitas.

Don’t miss their weekend specials featuring regional dishes rarely found elsewhere in Memphis, like pozole and menudo that taste just like abuela used to make.

2. Frida’s Restaurante Mexicano

Named after iconic artist Frida Kahlo, this restaurant celebrates Mexican culture through both food and decor. Colorful murals and artwork adorn the walls, creating an atmosphere as vibrant as the flavors on your plate.

Seafood shines at Frida’s, with their ceviche and camarones al mojo de ajo (garlic shrimp) drawing rave reviews from locals. The restaurant takes pride in their extensive tequila selection, featuring premium varieties perfect for sipping or in their signature margaritas. Weekend brunches bring special treats like chilaquiles and huevos rancheros, accompanied by live mariachi music that transforms your meal into a festive experience celebrating Mexico’s rich culinary heritage.

3. La Guadalupana

Hidden gem alert! Tucked away in a small strip mall, La Guadalupana serves some of the most authentic Mexican food in Memphis. The no-frills atmosphere lets the food take center stage, with homestyle cooking that feels like you’ve been invited into a Mexican family’s kitchen.

Their tacos al pastor feature perfectly marinated pork shaved from a traditional trompo (vertical rotisserie), topped simply with cilantro, onion, and pineapple. Weekends bring special treats like barbacoa and consommé that sell out quickly among those in the know.

Save room for their churros – crispy on the outside, soft inside, and dusted with cinnamon sugar that will have you licking your fingers clean!

4. BABALU

BABALU offers a modern twist on traditional Mexican flavors with their tapas-style approach to dining.

The restaurant’s industrial-chic setting creates a trendy atmosphere perfect for sharing small plates with friends over craft cocktails. Guacamole prepared tableside steals the show as servers mash fresh avocados with your choice of mix-ins right before your eyes. Their creative tacos feature unexpected combinations like blackened redfish with slaw or braised duck with cherry salsa that surprise and delight the palate.

Happy hour brings crowds for their signature margaritas and sangria, best enjoyed on their spacious patio where string lights create a magical ambiance as the sun sets over Memphis.

5. Playita Mexicana

Seafood lovers rejoice! Playita Mexicana specializes in coastal Mexican cuisine that transports you straight to the beaches of Mexico.

Whole fried fish is a house specialty, served with all the fixings to build your own perfect tacos. Their seafood cocktails brimming with shrimp, octopus, and tender fish chunks in a spicy tomato broth are legendary among Memphis foodies.

Families love the welcoming atmosphere and generous portions, while the complimentary chips with three different salsas – ranging from mild to fiery hot – keep everyone happy while waiting for their main courses.

6. Guac Fresh Mex

Fast-casual meets authentic flavor at Guac Fresh Mex. This counter-service spot has earned a devoted following for serving quick meals without sacrificing quality or taste. College students and busy professionals line up for their build-your-own burrito bowls topped with freshly prepared ingredients.

True to their name, the guacamole here is exceptional – made several times daily to ensure peak freshness and flavor. Their street corn, slathered in mayo, cotija cheese, and chili powde,r makes the perfect side dish to any meal.

Vegetarians appreciate the thoughtful plant-based options like grilled vegetable fajitas and black bean tostadas that prove Mexican food isn’t all about meat.

7. El Gallo Giro

Taco truck culture comes alive at El Gallo Giro, which started as a mobile eatery before popular demand led to a permanent location. The casual spot maintains its street food soul with simple, authentic dishes served without pretense but with maximum flavor.

Their tortas – Mexican sandwiches on fluffy bread – are stuffed generously with fillings like milanesa (breaded steak) or chorizo with egg. Weekends bring special offerings like menudo (tripe soup) that draws homesick Mexicans from across the Mid-South.

Cash only and sometimes with lines out the door, El Gallo Giro represents the true essence of Mexican street food that values substance over style and flavor above all else.

8. Caminos De Michoacan

Regional specialties from the Mexican state of Michoacán take center stage at this family-owned treasure. The warm, rustic interior, decorated with handcrafted items from Mexico, creates an authentic atmosphere that complements the traditional cooking.

Their carnitas – a Michoacán specialty of slow-cooked pork with crispy edges and tender interior – are widely considered the best in Memphis. Handmade corn tortillas arrive at your table in a covered basket, staying warm and pliable for your feast.

Adventurous eaters appreciate their expanded weekend menu featuring specialties like uchepos (sweet corn tamales) and morisqueta (a layered rice dish) that showcase the rich culinary heritage of this central Mexican state.

9. Las Delicias

A Memphis institution since 1992, Las Delicias has expanded to multiple locations while maintaining the quality that made them famous. The restaurant’s enduring popularity stems from consistently excellent food served in a comfortable, family-friendly setting.

Their signature guacamole – chunky, fresh, and perfectly seasoned – has developed such a following that they now sell it by the pound for takeout. Enchiladas suizas smothered in creamy tomatillo sauce satisfy comfort food cravings, while their street-style tacos offer a more traditional option.

10. El Toro Loco

Festive energy radiates throughout El Toro Loco, where colorful décor and upbeat music create a party atmosphere perfect for celebrations. The spacious restaurant accommodates large groups, making it a popular choice for birthday dinners and family gatherings.

Sizzling fajita platters arrive at tables with theatrical steam and aroma, while their extensive menu covers everything from Tex-Mex favorites to more traditional dishes. Margaritas come in various flavors and sizes – including their famous 32-ounce “Crazy Bull” that’s perfect for sharing (or not!).

Kids love the friendly staff who often bring balloon animals to the table, while parents appreciate the generous portions that ensure everyone leaves satisfied and happy.