Best Mexican Restaurants in Clifton, NJ

Craving real tacos that taste like they rolled straight out of a neighborhood in Jalisco? Clifton, NJ doesn’t just flirt with Mexican food—it dives right in. Whether you want a laid-back spot for burritos or a bustling cantina packed with secrets behind smoky salsas, this city has your back.

Wandering Clifton in search of dinner has put me in some wildly flavorful situations. Think soft tortillas stacked with charred vegetables, creamy guacamole served in stone bowls, and an energy that buzzes even on a Tuesday night. Each of these restaurants does something memorable, so if you take food seriously, you’re in good company. Let’s get into the best Mexican restaurants in Clifton that know how to keep bellies full and taste buds busy.

1. Chevys Fresh Mex

Finding cheesy, flavorful comfort food is a breeze at Chevys Fresh Mex on Route 3. Everything feels vibrant, from the décor to the made-daily salsa. You know they take freshness seriously when you see tortillas puffed up on the griddle before they land at your table.

I once spent a rainy afternoon watching friends carve into the mesquite-grilled fajitas, the table sizzling away, while I experimented with their veggie enchiladas. Portions lean generous and spice levels stay easy, so every visit feels relaxed, not rushed.

For a real taste of Clifton’s Tex-Mex scene, grab the tableside guacamole. It lands at your table bright and creamy, made to order. Go for the fajitas, and don’t skip their homemade salsa selection.

2. Chipotle Mexican Grill

If flexibility tops your must-have list, Chipotle Mexican Grill is all about personalization. Walking into the River Front Center location, you can sense the buzz from fast-moving lines and peppery aromas.

I’ve spent more than a few lunch breaks building the perfect burrito bowl—always with cilantro-lime rice and extra black beans. The menu makes it easy to fit most preferences, with vegetarian and gluten-free options at every turn.

Try a hearty bowl with fresh salsa and crisp lettuce or tuck into a soft corn tortilla taco. Chipotle keeps things simple and fast, but the flavor never feels rushed. It’s Clifton’s reliable stop when you want flavor without fuss.

3. El Mexicano Urban Bistro

El Mexicano Urban Bistro has a flair for flavor that sits a little outside the ordinary. The space fuses old-school Mexican recipes with a contemporary vibe, making it just as good for brunch as it is for late-night bites. You can sense the pride in every colorful plate.

I tried their mole enchiladas on a slow Saturday, and the depth of the sauce stayed with me long after. Every detail—from the soft tortillas to the bright salsa—spoke of tradition with a clever twist.

If you’re undecided, start with the tacos de nopales for a vegetarian spin. The menu takes risks, and it pays off. Nothing feels mass-produced here; each bite feels intentional and fresh.

4. Bitol Mexican Kitchen & Handcrafted Cantina Home

There’s something inviting about Bitol Mexican Kitchen & Handcrafted Cantina Home from the moment you walk in. The setting feels vibrant but never overdone, with hand-painted touches that give the space charm.

I stopped by for dinner and it was clear this spot takes its time with details. The handcrafted salsas set the tone right away—each batch tasted layered, bright, and complex. Nothing gets drowned out; every flavor has its moment.

Order the veggie tacos or their classic elote. Both showcase what Bitol does best: ingredients treated with respect, simple but far from boring. If you appreciate Mexican food as an art, you’ll recall your visit after the last bite.

5. Clifton City Tavern Mexican Cantina

Clifton City Tavern Mexican Cantina buzzes with the kind of energy that only a true neighborhood spot can offer. It’s the sort of place where your table is never far from laughter or the hum of a karaoke night.

I was instantly drawn to the aromatic pozole. The deep, earthy broth carried the slow-cooked comfort of home. Vegetarian-friendly options also stand out, showing care and color in every plate.

Try their tacos dorados or a big plate of nachos if you need a crowd-pleaser. Portions are generous, prices are right, and the kitchen doesn’t rush. Every visit feels like you’re part of a big gathering—food and fun, no frills needed.

6. Tio Taco + Tequila – Clifton

Step into Tio Taco + Tequila – Clifton and you get a burst of color and sound. The space is alive, packed with energy that begs you to linger a little longer. It’s equal parts fun and flavor, with a menu that proves you can do casual without cutting corners.

I’ve sat outside on a breezy afternoon tearing into their carne asada tacos. Charred and tender, these tacos shine against a bright backdrop of fresh salsa and crisp slaw. Portions run generous, so nobody walks away hungry.

If you’re looking to sample something new, the street corn comes dressed up in crema and plenty of spice. Tio Taco balances classic Mexican comfort with a dash of creativity you won’t soon forget.

7. Moe’s Southwest Grill

At Moe’s Southwest Grill, the pace is casual and the flavors are honest. Walking in, you’re greeted by the aroma of fresh salsas and that well-loved sound of chips hitting the basket. It’s a friendly, come-as-you-are kind of stop where picky eaters and spice lovers sit side by side.

I found myself drawn to their burrito bowls—pure comfort, layered with beans, rice, heaps of veggies, and just the right kick from their in-house salsas. Each bowl is made fresh for you, so you call the shots on what’s inside.

Don’t miss the complimentary chips and salsa; it’s the snack that keeps the conversation going. Moe’s is great for a quick bite or a slow lunch, and the choices never feel boring or routine.

8. Taqueria Los Gueros

Taqueria Los Gueros is where you go when you want authentic flavors minus the frills. The place has a buzz to it; families and solo diners alike gather over trays of tacos that never skim on flavor or freshness.

I showed up craving straight-up street food and left having found my new favorite spot for al pastor tacos. The meat is rich and perfectly seasoned, with pineapple lending a hit of sweetness you don’t find everywhere.

If you’re in a sharing mood, stack the table with their grilled veggie tacos and elotes. Every bite reminds you why classic Mexican food holds its own—simple, honest, done really well. Taqueria Los Gueros never overcomplicates things.

9. EL Dorado Mexican Grill

EL Dorado Mexican Grill is the sort of place you discover thanks to word-of-mouth, then return to for the warm service and bold flavors. This unassuming spot on Parker Ave delivers a menu grounded in Mexican tradition.

On my visit, I ordered the enchiladas verdes and was impressed by how the tangy tomatillo sauce played off the tender filling. The kitchen isn’t afraid of seasoning, and each dish arrives with inviting color and aroma.

If you’re in the mood for comfort, go for their homemade guacamole and soft tacos. EL Dorado’s approach feels cozy and honest, offering Clifton diners a chance to slow down and enjoy food that feels both home-cooked and special.

10. Sombrero Tacoria Clifton

Walking into Sombrero Tacoria Clifton feels like stepping into a bright, welcoming space where the details matter. There’s a relaxed energy here that makes you want to settle in, whether you’re flying solo or rounding up friends for taco night.

I zeroed in on the crispy tacos, loaded with beans and fresh slaw for a satisfying crunch in every bite. It’s clear everything is made to order, and the flavors stay true to classic Mexican roots without getting fussy.

For something shareable, try the loaded nachos or veggie quesadilla. These dishes showcase the kitchen’s playful edge, all while keeping tradition in play. Sombrero Tacoria’s approach is simple: good food, good company, and no shortcuts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best Mexican restaurants in Clifton, NJ?
Clifton offers great spots like Chevys Fresh Mex, Taqueria Los Gueros, La Fortaleza, and Sombrero Tacoria Clifton, each serving up signature dishes and a unique atmosphere.

Are there vegetarian options at Mexican restaurants in Clifton?
Absolutely. Most Mexican restaurants in Clifton, including Chipotle and Bitol Mexican Kitchen, offer vegetarian and even vegan-friendly dishes like veggie tacos, burrito bowls, and enchiladas.

Which Mexican restaurants in Clifton, NJ are good for families?
Chevys Fresh Mex and Moe’s Southwest Grill have relaxed vibes, kid-friendly menus, and plenty of seating, making them great for family outings.

Where can I find authentic street tacos in Clifton?
Head to Taqueria Los Gueros or El Mexicano Urban Bistro for classic street tacos packed with fresh toppings and real flavor.

Do any Mexican restaurants in Clifton offer takeout or delivery?
Most places, including Chipotle and Clifton City Tavern Mexican Cantina, offer both takeout and delivery, perfect for a meal at home or on the go.