20 BEST Mexican Cuisine Spots in Washington DC You Need to Explore This Year
Embark on a flavorful journey through the vibrant streets of Washington, DC, where the aroma of sizzling fajitas and the zesty tang of freshly-made salsa beckon both locals and wanderlust-filled travelers alike. In a city renowned for its diverse culinary scene, Mexican cuisine stands out as a spicy masterpiece that tantalizes the taste buds and warms the soul. From cozy family-owned taquerias to trendy urban eateries, each bite captures the essence of Mexico, offering a culinary escape just steps away from iconic DC landmarks.
Beyond the savory tacos and refreshing margaritas, this guide unveils hidden gems that not only cater to your taste buds but also cater to your furry friends with pet-friendly patios and relaxed atmospheres. So, whether you’re a seasoned local seeking a new go-to spot or a curious traveler eager to delve into DC’s rich flavors, this compilation promises to elevate your dining experience with each dish that celebrates the fusion of tradition and innovation. Get ready to savor
Best Mexican Cuisine In Dc
1. Oyamel Cocina Mexicana
“Fast service”“Great dessert”
Oyamel Cocina Mexicana is a fancy Mexican restaurant that serves unique and delicious dishes. The restaurant has a lively atmosphere and offers a variety of Mexican tapas and street food. They also have a wide selection of cocktails and wines for guests to enjoy.
The upscale spot is known for its creative take on traditional Mexican cuisine, making it a popular choice for those looking for a special dining experience. Whether you’re craving tacos, guacamole, or ceviche, Oyamel Cocina Mexicana has something for everyone to enjoy.
2. Lauriol Plaza
“Fast service”“Great cocktails”“Great coffee”
Lauriol Plaza is a popular Mexican restaurant and bar known for its lively atmosphere and delicious food. The restaurant is always bustling with customers enjoying classic Mexican dishes and refreshing frozen margaritas. With a spacious dining area and a rooftop deck, Lauriol Plaza is the perfect spot for a fun night out with friends or family.
The menu at Lauriol Plaza features all your favorite Mexican fare, from tacos and enchiladas to fajitas and burritos. The frozen margaritas are a crowd favorite, perfect for cooling off on a hot day or celebrating a special occasion. Whether you’re looking for a casual dinner or a festive night out, Lauriol Plaza has something for everyone to enjoy.
3. Dleña By Chef Richard Sandoval
“Fast service”“Great beer selection”“Great cocktails”
Dleña By Chef Richard Sandoval offers upscale Mexican cuisine in a stylish setting. The restaurant serves elevated Mexican dishes and wood-fired grilled specialties in a beautiful rustic-chic venue.
Guests can enjoy delicious food prepared by Chef Richard Sandoval, known for his innovative take on traditional Mexican flavors. The restaurant’s chic ambiance and delectable dishes make it a must-visit for those looking to experience high-quality Mexican cuisine in a sophisticated setting.
4. Mi Vida
“Fast service”“Great cocktails”“Great dessert”
Mi Vida offers modern Mexican cuisine with a touch of artistry, all while overlooking a beautiful river. The restaurant is known for its high-end dishes created by a celebrity chef, served in a glamorous two-story space with stunning waterfront views.
Guests can enjoy a unique dining experience with a menu that showcases the flavors and ingredients of Mexico in a sophisticated setting. The restaurant’s ambiance and delicious food make it a popular choice for those looking to indulge in upscale Mexican fare while taking in the scenic views of the river.
5. El Sol Restaurante & Tequileria
“Fast service”
El Sol Restaurante & Tequileria is a cozy eatery that specializes in authentic Mexican cuisine and a wide selection of tequila. The menu features traditional dishes that are bursting with flavor, all carefully crafted by talented chefs. From classic tacos and enchiladas to savory tamales and refreshing ceviche, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
The simple setting of El Sol allows the focus to be on the delicious food and drinks. The tequila selection is extensive, offering a variety of options for tequila enthusiasts to explore. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a night out with friends, El Sol Restaurante & Tequileria is the perfect spot to indulge in the vibrant flavors of Mexico.
6. Taqueria Habanero
“Fast service”
Taqueria Habanero is a cozy restaurant that offers delicious and authentic Mexican food. They make their own tortillas and fill them with tasty ingredients, creating mouthwatering dishes. The menu includes a variety of options, from tacos to burritos, all made with care and attention to detail.
In addition to their food, Taqueria Habanero also serves refreshing pitchers of margaritas and sangria. This makes it a great spot to enjoy a meal with friends or family while sipping on some tasty drinks. If you’re looking for a taste of Mexico in a casual and welcoming setting, Taqueria Habanero is the place to go.
7. El Chucho – Cocina Superior
“Fast service”“Rooftop seating”
El Chucho – Cocina Superior is a vibrant spot known for its tequila selection and delicious taqueria menu. The restaurant offers creative twists on traditional taqueria dishes, as well as margaritas on tap, making it a popular destination for those looking for a fun and flavorful dining experience.
With three levels to explore, El Chucho offers a lively atmosphere perfect for enjoying Mexican cuisine and drinks with friends. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos, nachos, or a refreshing margarita, this restaurant has something for everyone to enjoy.
8. Guapo’S Restaurant
“Fast service”“Sports”
Guapo’s Restaurant is a fun and lively Tex-Mex joint that is perfect for a festive night out. They serve up delicious and sizable burritos, tacos, and other classic Tex-Mex dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. The atmosphere is always buzzing with energy, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal with friends or family.
One of the highlights at Guapo’s is their margaritas, which come in pitcher form for sharing with your group. The margaritas are the perfect complement to the flavorful and spicy dishes on the menu. Whether you’re looking for a casual dinner or a lively night out, Guapo’s Restaurant is the place to be for delicious Tex-Mex eats and refreshing margaritas.
9. Mxdc Cocina Mexicana | By Chef Todd English
“Fast service”
Mxdc Cocina Mexicana, created by Chef Todd English, is a trendy Mexican kitchen and bar with a hip south-of-the-border vibe. The restaurant features a bi-level, rustic-modern design that sets the stage for a unique dining experience.
Chef Todd English puts his own twist on traditional Mexican staples, offering a menu filled with reimagined dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. And for those who enjoy a good tequila, Mxdc Cocina Mexicana has an impressive selection of tequilas to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a casual night out with friends or a special dining experience, Mxdc Cocina Mexicana is the perfect spot to enjoy delicious food and drinks in a lively atmosphere.
10. Mission Dupont Circle
“Sports”
Mission Dupont Circle is a trendy Mexican restaurant located in Washington, D.C. The restaurant features a charming outdoor patio where guests can enjoy their delicious meals in a relaxed setting. The hacienda-style decor adds to the authentic Mexican dining experience.
The menu at Mission Dupont Circle offers a variety of traditional tacos and a wide selection of tequila for guests to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch or a fun night out with friends, this stylish eatery is the perfect spot to satisfy your Mexican food cravings.
11. El Rinconcito Cafe
“Fast service”“Sports”
El Rinconcito Café is a popular spot for delicious Mexican and Salvadoran food. They offer a variety of dishes such as pupusas and fajitas at affordable prices, making it a favorite among locals. The simple venue attracts a loyal following of fans who appreciate the authentic flavors and generous portions.
Whether you’re craving traditional Mexican fare or Salvadoran specialties, El Rinconcito Café has something for everyone. The casual atmosphere and friendly service make it a great choice for a tasty and budget-friendly meal. Don’t miss out on this hidden gem for a satisfying dining experience.
12. Paraiso – Mexican Restaurant Taqueria & Mezcaleria
“Fast service”“Great beer selection”“Great cocktails”
Paraiso is a Mexican restaurant that offers a variety of traditional Mexican dishes in a stylish setting. The rustic-chic decor adds to the ambiance, making it a great place to enjoy tacos and other Mexican staples. They also offer tequila and mezcal flights for those looking to try something new or enhance their dining experience.
The menu at Paraiso features a range of authentic Mexican cuisine, perfect for those craving a taste of Mexico. With a focus on quality ingredients and flavorful dishes, this restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for a delicious meal in a trendy atmosphere. Whether you’re a fan of tacos or interested in trying out different types of tequila and mezcal, Paraiso has something for everyone to enjoy.
13. Mezcalero Cocina Mexicana
“Fast service”
Mezcalero Cocina Mexicana is a cozy restaurant that specializes in authentic Mexican cuisine with a focus on mezcal, a traditional Mexican spirit. The menu features a variety of Mexican street food and regional dishes, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant also boasts a mezcal bar, where guests can enjoy a selection of artisanal mezcal cocktails.
The space is decorated with colorful photos and kitschy decor, creating a fun and vibrant atmosphere for diners to enjoy their meal. Whether you’re looking to try traditional Mexican dishes or sample different types of mezcal, Mezcalero Cocina Mexicana offers a unique dining experience that is sure to satisfy your cravings for delicious food and drinks.
14. Mission – Navy Yard
“Fast service”“Live music”“Sports”
Mission – Navy Yard is a cool Mexican restaurant and bar with an industrial-chic vibe. The spacious setting is perfect for enjoying delicious Mexican food and weekend brunch. The central bar adds to the hip atmosphere, and weekend DJs provide a fun soundtrack for your dining experience.
Whether you’re looking for a tasty meal or a lively night out, Mission – Navy Yard has you covered. With its trendy decor and delicious menu, this restaurant is the perfect spot for a casual meal or a night out with friends. Don’t miss out on the weekend brunch and DJs for a memorable dining experience.
15. Cactus Cantina
“Fast service”
Cactus Cantina is a fun and lively restaurant that serves basic Tex-Mex food in a festive atmosphere. The menu includes popular dishes like tacos, burritos, and fajitas, as well as refreshing margaritas to enjoy with your meal. The restaurant is popular among college students and families, who are drawn to its casual and welcoming setting.
With a vibrant patio for outdoor dining, Cactus Cantina is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal with friends and family. The restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere and delicious food make it a favorite among those looking for a taste of Tex-Mex cuisine in a fun and lively setting.
16. Johnny Pistolas
“Fast service”“Sports”
Johnny Pistolas is a trendy Mexican bar and taqueria that offers a modern twist on traditional Mexican cuisine. The restaurant features a casual and inviting atmosphere, perfect for enjoying street tacos and margaritas with friends.
With a focus on contemporary Mexican flavors, Johnny Pistolas serves up a variety of delicious tacos made with fresh ingredients and bold seasonings. The menu also includes a selection of refreshing margaritas, perfect for washing down the flavorful dishes.
Whether you’re looking for a fun night out with friends or a casual dinner with family, Johnny Pistolas is the perfect spot to enjoy modern Mexican cuisine in a convivial setting. Come in and experience the vibrant flavors and laid-back vibe of this L.A.-style taqueria.
17. Alero Restaurant Dupont
“Fast service”
Alero Restaurant Dupont is a fun and lively Mexican restaurant located in the heart of Dupont Circle. The restaurant has a vibrant atmosphere with upbeat music and a colorful decor that makes you feel like you’re in Mexico.
Their menu offers a wide variety of classic Mexican dishes, from tacos and enchiladas to fajitas and burritos. They also serve pitchers of margaritas, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying on your own. Alero Restaurant Dupont is the perfect spot for a casual night out with delicious food and drinks in a hip setting.
18. Vera Cocina & بار
“Great cocktails”“Great dessert”“Great wine list”
Vera Cocina & بار is a trendy restaurant and bar located in the heart of the city. The restaurant offers a unique fusion of Mexican and Middle Eastern cuisine, creating a one-of-a-kind dining experience for guests.
The menu at Vera Cocina & بار features a variety of delicious dishes, from traditional Mexican tacos to flavorful Middle Eastern kebabs. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of cocktails and beverages, making it the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a special date night.
19. Republic Cantina
“Fast service”
Republic Cantina is a cozy Tex-Mex restaurant that feels just like home. With a homestyle kitchen serving up all your favorite Tex-Mex dishes, you’ll feel like you’re dining in your own kitchen. The patio is the perfect spot to enjoy your meal and soak up some sun.
On weekends, Republic Cantina offers a delicious brunch menu that will satisfy all your cravings. And if you’re in a hurry, you can always opt for their convenient take-out option. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely meal or a quick bite, Republic Cantina has something for everyone.
20. Mi Vida
“Fast service”
Mi Vida is a heartwarming coming-of-age story about a young girl named Juana who is navigating the challenges of growing up in a new country. She struggles to balance her Mexican heritage with her American identity while facing the pressures of high school and family expectations. Juana’s journey is filled with moments of self-discovery, friendship, and cultural pride.
As Juana learns to embrace her unique background and find her place in the world, she discovers the power of resilience and determination. With the support of her family and friends, she embarks on a journey of self-acceptance and growth, ultimately finding her voice and purpose in life. Mi Vida is a story of hope, courage, and the importance of staying true to oneself in the face of adversity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Washington, DC offers a diverse and vibrant culinary scene, including some of the best Mexican cuisine in the city. From traditional taquerias to upscale Mexican restaurants, there is something for every taste bud to enjoy. So next time you’re in DC, be sure to explore the flavors of Mexico at one of these top dining spots.
For a truly authentic Mexican dining experience, be sure to visit Oyamel Cocina Mexicana or Espita Mezcaleria. These restaurants are known for their delicious and creative takes on classic Mexican dishes, as well as their extensive tequila and mezcal selections. And if you’re looking for a more casual dining experience, don’t miss out on Taqueria Habanero for some mouth-watering tacos and burritos. So come hungry and get ready to indulge in the best Mexican cuisine that DC has to offer!
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