Clearwater, FL might be famous for its white sand beaches, but it’s the local Mexican restaurants that keep me coming back. The first time I wandered off the waterfront in search of food, I found myself pulled in by the aroma of sizzling carne asada and the sight of crisp tortilla chips peeking out of colorful baskets. Every spot has its own charm, but common to all is a knack for combining vibrant flavors with laid-back coastal flair. You don’t just taste the Gulf in the seafood tacos—you feel a bit of fun in every dish.
Deciding where to eat Mexican in Clearwater is more than picking a place—it’s picking your experience. Some joints are breezy and bright, perfect for a post-beach snack. Others beckon with rooftops, tequila flights, and piquant guac made tableside. And, yes, I’ve braved the taco trucks and mainstays alike, hunting for the crunchiest tostada or boldest salsa. This guide is made for anyone ready to find Clearwater’s best Mexican food, minus the guesswork. Dive in and let’s map out your next flavor adventure.
1. Marina Cantina
Step onto the rooftop at Marina Cantina, and the view of Clearwater’s waterline nearly steals the show. But the real star is the plate in front of you—especially if it holds their signature Grouper del Sol. The seafood is caught by their own boats, so every bite tastes like a fresh story from the Gulf.
Marina Cantina brings bold Mexican flavors together with local ingredients. The pork belly tacos pack a punch, as smoky and crisp as any I’ve tried, while their casa ceviche is bright, clean, and dotted with fresh citrus. Even a classic carne asada feels elevated when paired with a margarita flight and sunset views.
Don’t skip brunch. The huevos rancheros and bottomless mimosas make weekends here feel endless.
2. Pearly’s Beach Eats
Pearly’s Beach Eats feels like a secret hideaway wrapped in tropical charm, just steps from the shoreline. The picnic tables tucked under palms make you want to linger long after lunch. I stopped in after a surf session, sandy and sunburned, and was greeted with a smile and a seriously good fish taco.
This spot stands out for its beachy vibes and fresh, unfussy food. The Baja fish tacos are a local legend—lightly fried and topped with a zippy slaw. Their black bean burritos, loaded and full of flavor, are friendly to vegetarians and taste like comfort on a plate.
If you’re after a chill spot with honest flavors and no rush, start here. It’s a little slice of paradise with a flair for Mexican eats.
3. Badfins Food + Brew
Badfins Food + Brew is where locals and visitors blend in over street-style eats that never feel typical. After a hot Clearwater afternoon, I ducked inside for a quick bite and got hooked by their creative tacos and craft brews.
This place shines with inventive Mexican food and a laid-back, modern vibe. The shrimp tacos are plump, seasoned, and served with house-made salsa that delivers just the right amount of kick. Their veggie nachos come loaded and crisp, a must-try whether you’re plant-based or just hungry.
Pair your meal with one of their local brews and snag a seat outdoors if you can. It’s a spot that keeps things light and lively, perfect for refueling after the beach.
4. The Spotted Donkey Cantina
The Spotted Donkey Cantina is tucked inside the Hilton but feels far from your usual hotel fare. My first visit was an accidental detour—and turned into a go-to for bold Mexican plates and a relaxed, festive mood.
What sets it apart? The attention to flavor in every dish. Their classic street tacos are stacked high and burst with color and spice, while the queso dip is the kind you end up scraping the bowl for. Vegan and gluten-free options are woven seamlessly into the menu, so everyone’s happy at the table.
If you can, visit at sundown for a late-night bite and a cool breeze from their patio. The vibe here makes any meal feel like a celebration.
5. Taco Bus
Taco Bus is part legend, part comfort food fix, and entirely devoted to real Mexican street flavor. I first stopped at this bright, roll-up eatery after a late beach walk, lured by the sizzle of the grill and the colorful menu.
The magic here is the variety—every order feels personal and packed with tradition. Their grilled veggie tacos come bursting with fresh squash and peppers, while the carne asada burrito hits all the right notes: smoky, hefty, satisfying.
If you’re new, grab a plate of their daily special and a side of chipotle salsa. It’s Mexican street food done with genuine love and no frills, perfect for a post-swim meal or a casual bite at any hour.
6. Pan Filo’s Co. Bar & Grill
+1 727-240-4998
Pan Filo’s Co. Bar & Grill has a way of drawing you in—something about the relaxed space, cool drinks, and tempting aroma from the kitchen. I wandered in with sand still clinging to my shoes, and found a menu that blends casual comfort with bold Mexican flavors.
What makes this spot shine is its homey vibe and generous portions. Their vegetarian enchiladas are smothered in a perfectly tangy verde sauce, and the street corn is smoky, sweet, and impossible not to share. Even the basics, like rice and beans, feel made with care.
For a taste of Mexico in Clearwater that doesn’t feel rushed, Pan Filo’s delivers. It’s the kind of place you settle into for lunch and somehow manage to stay through dinner.
7. Tequila’s Mexican Grill & Cantina
Tequila’s Mexican Grill & Cantina is the heart of downtown Clearwater, lively even on a weekday afternoon. My first visit meant catching up with friends over tacos, and before long, it turned into a regular date spot for me—the energy here is seriously inviting.
This cantina stands out thanks to its range of flavorful, well-balanced dishes and a menu that welcomes every diet. Their fajitas sizzle to the table and come loaded with grilled veggies and your choice of protein. The vegetarian enchiladas are rolled with bright vegetables and just the right amount of spice.
Start with their chunky guacamole and finish with a tamarind-flavored agua fresca. Meals here stretch out, thanks to generous servings and a staff that makes every guest feel at home.
8. Senor Tequila
+1 727-475-9081
Step into Senor Tequila and you’re met with a burst of color and the hum of a friendly crowd. On my last visit, I grabbed a window seat and found myself lingering longer than planned—the relaxed pace makes it easy to unwind.
Senor Tequila shines with hearty, classic fare and welcoming service. Their chicken enchiladas are especially memorable, sauced just right and topped with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. The veggie tacos, meanwhile, are crisp and bright, letting fresh ingredients speak for themselves.
If you want the comfort of Mexican home cooking right near the beach, this is the spot. Generous portions mean you’ll likely leave with leftovers, and maybe plans to come back tomorrow.
9. La Cabana del Tio
La Cabana del Tio feels like a cozy invitation into a family kitchen. My first breakfast here left a strong impression, starting with warm greetings and ending with the sort of flavors usually reserved for Mexican Sunday mornings.
This eatery stands out for both its authenticity and versatility—serving everything from hearty breakfast burritos to generous dinner plates. The huevos rancheros come with just the right hit of sauce and spice, and the chilaquiles are a rare local find that hit all the right comfort notes.
For lunch, their platillos—like enchiladas verdes or spicy sopes—are filling and packed with homemade touches. If you’re after an unfussy meal that tastes like it’s been passed down through generations, La Cabana del Tio is a must.
10. El Huarache Azteca 3
El Huarache Azteca 3 is the definition of a hidden gem, tucked away behind a car dealership but serving flavors worth hunting for. The rows of homemade salsas and the aroma of fresh masa make you feel like you’ve stumbled into a neighborhood favorite.
What makes this place special is its commitment to old-school, house-made classics. Their namesake huaraches are the standouts—thick, pillowy masa ovals piled with beans, veggies, or steak. I stopped by for lunch and found their mole enchiladas had a depth usually reserved for family feasts.
Start with their freshly made horchata, and don’t skip the breakfast chilaquiles if you’re in early. El Huarache Azteca 3 delivers true Mexican comfort, minus any frills but all the heart.
More Things to Try in Clearwater, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best Mexican restaurants in Clearwater for authentic cuisine?
Try El Huarache Azteca 3 for traditional flavors, La Cabana del Tio for classic breakfast dishes, and Taco Bus for authentic street-style eats.
Are there Mexican restaurants in Clearwater with vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, many spots offer plant-based choices. Check out Pearly’s Beach Eats for loaded veggie burritos, Marina Cantina for creative seafood and vegetarian fare, and Tequila’s Mexican Grill & Cantina for a dedicated vegan menu section.
Which places have outdoor seating or a great view?
Marina Cantina features a sweeping rooftop panorama. Badfins Food + Brew and Pearly’s Beach Eats both offer casual outdoor spaces—perfect for breezy afternoons.
Do any Clearwater Mexican restaurants provide gluten-free options?
Absolutely. Taco Bus, Tequila’s Mexican Grill & Cantina, and The Spotted Donkey Cantina are all known for gluten-free selections.
Where can I find Mexican brunch in Clearwater?
Marina Cantina hosts a popular weekend brunch with Mexican twists on classic favorites. La Cabana del Tio also serves breakfast specialties daily.
Are there any Mexican restaurants open late?
Taco Bus and Tequila’s Mexican Grill & Cantina both keep their kitchens going well into the evening, great for those late-night taco cravings.
