19 Best Mexican Restaurants In Las Vegas, Ranked
Las Vegas is home to some of the most exciting and extravagant restaurants in the country. From small and locally-owned favorites to celebrity chef and fine dining experiences, there are a seemingly endless array of options for locals and tourists to explore. Between the presence of a flourishing culinary scene and Las Vegas's southwest location, it is no surprise that quality Mexican food has exploded across the greater Las Vegas area.
Whether you're looking for your new favorite hole-in-the-wall taco shop or sit-down dining complete with tequila tastings and vibrant desserts, many of the Mexican restaurants we are highlighting are doing a great job at representing the authentic fare that is famous south of the border. Like in any major city, however, it can get a bit overwhelming trying to navigate the many restaurant options in Sin City. That said, we ranked some of the best Mexican restaurants in Las Vegas.
19. Carnitas y Tortas Ahogadas Guadalajara
Don't let the exterior of this hole-in-the-wall joint fool you, Carnitas y Tortas Ahogadas Guadalajara is serving some of the most comforting Mexican food in all of Las Vegas. With a mission to bring family recipes from the Jalisco region, each dish on the menu is made with the freshest ingredients possible, allowing you to taste the history and deep cultural roots in every bite.
The torta ahogada is the restaurant's namesake dish and is best known for its bold flavor. This traditional Mexican sandwich is made with birote bread, a style of sourdough from Guadalajara, and comes dressed in a zesty homemade salsa. The torta is also topped with pickled onions and seasoned generously. You can choose between the traditional carnitas torta, or explore some of the other delicious proteins like the Asada, birria, or al pastor.
18. Tacos El Gordo
Since the business opened in 1972, Tacos El Gordo has been wowing people with authentic Tijuana-style tacos. This family-owned spot now boasts four Las Vegas locations, bringing excellent service and consistent cuisine to each spot. The tacos are made with handmade corn tortillas, top-grade meats that are generously seasoned and cooked with care, fresh produce, and salsa and guacamole that are handmade in-house daily.
The menu is simple and straightforward, and as the name suggests, Tacos El Gordo specializes in the art of that taco. From the adobada-marinated pork tacos to the traditional lengua tacos, the quality and freshness of the ingredients allow the meats to shine and are accented by toppings of your choice. Check out the cheesy quesadilla for another tasty way to enjoy the restaurant's handmade tortillas.
17. El Segundo Sol
If you're looking to find some refuge from the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas, El Segundo Sol should be at the top of your list. Though its Las Vegas Boulevard location allows diners to enjoy views of the strip, El Segundo Sol's spacious patio encourages guests to enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine underneath the shade of beautifully lit trees. Drawing inspiration from the shaded taquerias of Mexico City, El Segundo Sol showcases a flavor-forward menu that is some of the best Vegas has to offer.
The tableside guacamole is handmade with Del Rey Farms avocados, fresh lime, cilantro, onion, and house-made tortilla chips, making it the ideal appetizer. The signature taco selection is also worth checking out. Each taco dish is served with herbaceous cilantro rice, Oaxacan-style black beans, and bright house pico de gallo. The chile-garlic shrimp dorado tacos are a must-try for any seafood lover and are served in a crispy flour tortilla with queso Oaxaca and a smoky chipotle crema.
16. Javier's
Javier's is a popular Mexican food chain that is known for its stiff margaritas and upscale Mexican cuisine. The Javier's in Las Vegas is located in the ARIA and has a particularly edgy and masculine vibe. The leather couches are met with dim lighting and black accents, creating a mysterious yet enticing atmosphere that is ideal for sipping on cocktails in between activities. That said, the menu at Javier's has everything from beloved classics like steak fajitas to seafood dishes like Dungeness crab enchiladas.
Javier's is also known for its steaks, all of which are aged, top-notch Angus beef center cuts. Choose between luxe options like steak picado made with filet mignon or a lobster enchilada. When it comes to margaritas, the Javier's is a blended classic topped with Grand Marnier.
15. Las Cazuelas
Named after the small clay pots used by abuelas to cook up some of the most traditional Mexican recipes for centuries, Las Cazuelas specializes in authentic cuisine from Puebla, Mexico. This local spot takes pride in its recreation of some of Puebla's best dishes, bringing the bright bold flavors from central Mexico to the Las Vegas food scene. Each dish is prepared from scratch and in-house daily, resulting in only the freshest food being served in the charming dining space.
The Huarache is a staple for those looking to dive into Pueblan cuisine and makes it steps above the competition in this ranking. The fried corn flatbread is topped with beans, salsa, lettuce, cotija cheese, cream, and a choice of either chorizo, carne asada, carne al pastor, or scrambled eggs for a fun breakfast twist on the delicious savory dish.
14. Casa Don Juan
Casa Don Juan is a family-owned, home-style Mexican food spot with three locations across the greater Las Vegas area. Enjoy a meal at the Summerlin, Henderson, or downtown Las Vegas location for a stand-out for a hospitable, family-friendly dining experience that melds high-quality service with no-frills cuisine across the board. Guests are greeted with a warm basket of house-made tortilla chips and the famous homemade salsa that is full of fresh tomatoes, onions, and Mexican chiles.
The burrito mojado is one of Casa Don Juan's most revered dishes: Choose a protein from the menu's protein options, including chicken, carne asada, grilled vegetables, and more. You can then add a bright and tangy salsa verde or the bold and smoky salsa roja, along with melted cheese and fresh guacamole.
13. Border Grill
Culinary moguls Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken are the chefs, owners, and powerhouse duo behind the Border Grill brand. What once started as a small taqueria-inspired restaurant in Los Angeles has since grown into a chain of Mexican restaurants across the United States. The Border Grill Las Vegas location is located within the Mandalay Bay Resort and offers the same bold Mexican flavors fused with the chef's fine-dining culinary training to create a unique menu that delivers quality and creativity.
Start off with a hand-crafted cocktail from the extensive list of beautifully balanced libations like the guayaba spritz, which is a tasty tropical combination of Tanteo jalapeño tequila, rhubarb, raspberry, guava, and fresh lime. The Yucatan pork offers an elevated twist on classic achiote pork roasted in banana leaves with pickled onion, orange, and cinnamon, then paired with sauteed plantains, rice and beans, and guacamole.
12. El Dorado Cantina
Since its opening in 2014, El Dorado Cantina has worked to create a dynamic menu serving authentic dishes from various regions in Mexico made from organic and non-GMO ingredients. The dedication to using farm-sourced and sustainable ingredients allows El Dorado Cantina to operate not only as sustainably and locally as possible but also ensures that each dish remains healthy, clean, and fresh.
For an authentic Mexican starter, check out the aguachiles, which is a vibrant appetizer of wild shrimp that is cooked in lime juice, jalapeño and rich spices with cucumbers, cilantro, red onions, avocados, and chiles served with corn tostadas. Pair with a Mexican-inspired cocktail like the mole-spiced Old Fashioned, an inspired combination of Bulleit, Bittermens Xocolatl, Jägermeister cold brew, agave, orange peel, and cherry.
11. China poblano
China Poblano is an innovative Chinese-meets-Mexican, street market-inspired restaurant that is owned and operated by the renowned Chef José Andrés. From the menu to the decor, China Poblano seeks to tell the story and highlight the culture-rich history of both Mexican and Chinese cuisine, creating unique dishes that stand out on this ranking by artfully fusing the two together on the plate.
Check out the tasting menu for an exploratory tour of some of China Poblano's most popular dishes. The coursed menu starts off with house-made chips and salsa, as well as tuna ceviche and young coconut ceviche. Other featured dishes include the quail egg siu mai, golden pig steamed buns with Chinese barbeque pork and condensed milk, and tacos de nopales y queso. You'll also find 20 vegetable fried rice, mango sticky rice, and more.
10. Chica
Chica, located in the Venetian hotel, is a trendy and modern spot that puts a contemporary twist on Latin fare. The restaurant is led by Chef Lorena Garcia and offers a unique take on Mexican food traditions. Diners can expect a wide variety of flavors ranging from bold and spicy to subtle and nuanced. When it comes to decor, Chica is inspired by the vibrant colors and energy of Mexico, and the atmosphere is lively and welcoming.
The menu features classic dishes like tacos and enchiladas, as well as more modern and creative options like achiote-marinated chicken and tamarind-glazed pork belly. Chica also offers a selection of hand-crafted cocktails that are the perfect complement to the bold flavors of the food. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or a special occasion, Chica is the perfect destination for a memorable dining experience in the heart of Las Vegas.
9. Tacos & Beer
As the name suggests, Tacos & Beer specializes in all things artisanal tacos and craft beer. This local favorite offers a 20-faucet draught beer system that is ever-rotating in new brews for guests to try. The off-the-strip location and stylish yet laid-back interior make this the perfect spot for diners to enjoy a filling meal and a craft beverage away from the hustle and bustle of the strip itself.
Although Tacos & Beer is most known for its two namesake dishes, the menu also offers an array of other delicious Mexican dishes, as well as craft cocktails and signature margaritas. You can even create your own taco platter and choose from the impressive list of house-specialty tacos. The puerco verde tacos are vibrant and exciting, made with slow-roasted pork in a tomatillo sauce with onion, cilantro, and chicharrones. For an equally delicious vegetarian option, check out the one-of-a-kind vegan Korean BBQ taco made with marinated soy protein, slaw, mango-habanero salsa, vegan cilantro-lime dressing, and morita salsa served in a flour tortilla.
8. Letty's
Letty's is a locally-owned and operated Mexican spot that is just as tasty as it is beautiful, bringing it higher on our ranking. The exterior of the building boasts an impressive mural that pays homage to many mystical figures in Mexican culture, standing out even in the funky downtown Vegas arts district where it is located. Chef and owner Leticia takes pride in the flavors and quality of each dish on the menu, making everything from scratch daily, including every salsa and guacamole option.
Some of the standout dishes include the pan-seared scallops, the slow-cooked short ribs, and the signature steak tartare. The restaurant also boasts an impressive wine list with a selection of bottles from around the world that have been curated to complement the menu. Between the stunning decor and delicious food and beverage, Letty's is an ideal spot for those needing to cure their craving for contemporary Mexican cuisine.
7. Sin Frontera Tacos
With two locations in Summerlin, Sin Frontera Tacos has made quite the name for itself as some of the best Mexican food in Las Vegas. Be sure to start off with the chips and salsa, which showcase the house-made tortilla chips along with eight zesty Sin Frontera salsas, all offering bold, bright flavors with various levels of spice and acidity. The shrimp ceviche is another popular starter that combines shrimp and mango with cucumber, onion, tomato, and avocado served with a side of mini tostadas.
The signature dishes section of the menu offers diners a selection of Mexican favorite dishes prepared with bold and comforting flavors in mind. Order the chiles rellenos, which is a dish made of two deep-fried poblano peppers stuffed with Mexican cheese, and served with a roasted tomato salsa, crema, pico de gallo, house-made tomato rice, and tortillas.
6. Milpa Las Vegas
Looking for a Mexican-inspired restaurant that is both indulgent and health-conscious? Milpa Las Vegas is a breakfast, brunch, and lunch spot serving fresh and health-conscious Mexican food in Las Vegas. One of the many signature coffee selections offers a great start to any day, and the options range from the sweet and cinnamon-forward horchata latte to the Mexican favorite Cafe de Olla.
Whether you are in the mood for a healthy bowl, a classic taco or tamale, or a brunch specialty, Milpa Las Vegas has it all. Check out the romaine and jicama salad, which is a bright and nutritious combination of romaine lettuce, jicama, cucumber, radish, cranberries, pumpkin seeds, pomegranate, queso fresco, and a citrus jalapeño vinaigrette. For something a little heartier, dive into the birria chilaquiles with a filling preparation of tortilla chips tossed in salsa, birria-style meat, two fried eggs, Mexican crema, queso cotija, radish, and cilantro.
5. Bajamar Seafood & Tacos
Bajamar Seafood & Tacos is bringing all the flavor and energy of a Baja California surf shack to Vegas. This bright and inviting spot has quickly become a crowd-pleaser among locals and tourists alike, welcoming people in with its community-oriented bar top, oceanic decor, and general surfer mentality. While Bajamar specializes in Baja California-style fish tacos, the menu offers a wide array of food and a full bar for guests to enjoy.
When it comes to appetizers, the aguachiles at Bajamar Seafood & Tacos is one of the most popular dishes. The signature Aguachile Bajamar features fresh raw shrimp marinated in a house blend of lime juice, beets, onions, carrots, onions, and habanero chile on a bed of cucumbers, making it a refreshing and light appetizer that can be shared by a small group.
4. Salud Mexican Bistro
Located near The Lakes in Summerlin, Salud Mexican Bistro offers a complex menu of modern Mexican food and a wide selection of unique tequilas and mezcals in the full bar. This family-owned spot is operated by a father and daughter who strive to make each guest feel like family as they indulge in modern Mexican cuisine.
If you're looking to partake in an award-winning beverage, the classic margarita is a great go-to. However, the El Catrina is a more unique and fruity libation made with rum, pomegranate, Frangelico, agave, and lime. As far as the food goes, be sure to check out some of the duck carnitas for a twist on classic carnitas preparation. The carefully cooked duck is paired with a berry jalapeño chutney, cilantro rice, and black beans and served with a warm fresh tortilla.
3. Lindo Michoacan
What once began as a tiny 12-table hidden gem in 1990 has since become one of Las Vegas's most beloved Mexican spots. Under the expert leadership of owner Javier Barajas, Lindo Michoacán works to bring regional Michoacán cuisine to Sin City. That said, it is best known for its expert use of produce and other fresh ingredients that never seem to fail in consistency and quality.
Check out the nopalitos starter, a traditional preparation of fresh cactus grilled with onion, tomato, carrots, cilantro, and jalapeños that is served with a side of house-made tortillas. You can't go wrong with any of the selections from the "Recommended by Javier" section, but the rich and luxe Langostas preparation of two lobster tails, served al ajillo, sarandeada, or a la diablo style, is a real winner.
2. Juan's Flaming Fajitas
With three locations across the greater Las Vegas area, Juan's Flaming Fajitas & Cantina serves authentic Mexican cuisine ranging from burritos to enchiladas, and of course, the signature Juan's fajitas. Whether you are looking for a sit-down spot to enjoy with family or a lively happy hour spot to enjoy a drink with a friend, Juan's Flaming Fajitas is one of the best Vegas Mexican food options for any occasion.
The margarita flight is an exciting way to try out three of Juan's Flaming Fajitas' signature margaritas with flavors like guava, passionfruit, mango, and more. As the name suggests, Juan's Flaming Fajitas specializes in a showy presentation of grilled meat and veggies that arrive flaming at the table for a fun and decadently charred dish. Every fajita dish is cooked with grilled onions and bell peppers and served with a garnish of sour cream, guacamole, and pico de gallo.
1. Bonito Michoacán
At the top of our list, Bonito Michoacán Mexican Restaurant is a must-try for any Mexican food fans in Las Vegas. Owned and operated by Javier Barajas (the chef behind Lindo Michoacán), Bonito Michoacán works to elevate traditional Mexican cuisine for a classic and timeless dining experience.
If you're looking to start off with a craft cocktail from the signature drink list, check out the La Cazuela, which is a cocktail for two made with Tequila Antiguo, fresh grapefruit, orange juice, lime juice, a splash of squirt soda, and a dash of salt and tajin. The mole poblano is a true standout among the many beloved dishes on the menu; this tender and rich chicken dish features a balanced blend of chiles, spices, and rich chocolate. It is slow-cooked, allowing for maximum flavor and a signature smooth and creamy texture.