Finding the best Mexican restaurants in Monmouth County, NJ can feel like wandering through a maze lined with the smells of sizzling fajitas and fresh tortillas. The real adventure starts when you come across a place that serves a dish you can’t stop thinking about—like the time I ordered enchiladas on a rainy Red Bank afternoon and found myself dreaming about the sauce all week. Monmouth County is quietly filled with gems, each putting their own spin on Mexican classics, from street-style tacos to burrito bowls that don’t skimp on flavor.
Whether you’re after spicy salsa, melt-in-your-mouth tamales, or that perfect guac, the local spots are ready. I’ve sampled menus from Highlands to Freehold, and this guide pulls together the ones that stood out for freshness, authenticity, and taste. If you’re serious about your next meal (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?), this list will steer you in all the right directions. Get ready to discover which taqueria deserves your next craving.
1. Dee Dee’s Kitchen
(732) 414-2715Call
Dee Dee’s Kitchen in Colts Neck is easy to miss, but skip it and you’re missing out. Tucked away on Merchants Way, this spot brings a genuine taste of Mexico to Monmouth County. The menu doesn’t try to impress with unnecessary flair; every dish is grounded in fresh ingredients and straight-up flavor.
On a recent visit, I tried the chicken enchiladas. The homemade sauce and the tender meat made each bite a small victory. This place won me over because the staff knows both their recipes and their regulars—warm service just adds to the charm.
If you’re unsure what to order, start with their steak tacos. The marinade is spot-on, hitting every note you expect in a classic taco but with Dee Dee’s signature touch. Want a bit more? Ask for their veggie quesadilla, and you’ll understand why so many locals keep coming back. Flavors here stay with you.
2. Reyna’s Mexican Restaurant
Reyna’s Mexican Restaurant in Tinton Falls is all about authenticity, from their hand-prepared salsa to the warmth that greets you at the door. The atmosphere feels laid-back and inviting, the kind of place where families settle in for a relaxed dinner and friends linger over a second basket of chips. I still remember my first meal here—the guacamole was creamy, bright, and clearly made moments before it hit the table.
What makes Reyna’s special is their commitment to freshness. You can taste it in every bite, especially in their chicken mole and shrimp tacos. If you want the full experience, don’t skip the tamales—soft, savory, and generously filled. Kids love the menu here too, so it’s truly a spot for everyone.
The homemade flavors and welcoming vibe make Reyna’s a reliable favorite any day of the week.
3. Bubbakoo’s Burritos
If you want Mexican-American comfort food with flexibility, Bubbakoo’s Burritos at Jersey Shore Premium Outlets gets it right. The vibe is casual and lively, perfect for grabbing a quick meal after shopping or meeting friends for a relaxed bite. On my most recent visit, I built a chicken burrito bolstered by fresh toppings and flavorful rice—every bite packed with taste.
Bubbakoo’s stands out because you get to craft your meal from the ground up. The mix-and-match approach means you can go classic or get a little daring with spicy salsas and all the trimmings. Their grilled chicken and vegetarian burritos are local favorites, and the portions make lunch stretch into dinner.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try their burrito bowl with black beans and roasted veggies—it’s hearty without being heavy. Great for those days when you want something customized and satisfying.
4. QDOBA Mexican Eats
QDOBA Mexican Eats in Oakhurst offers the kind of variety that makes every visit feel a bit different. The setup is fast-casual, so you get bold flavors without a long wait. My first time here, I watched the staff layer ingredients into a burrito as if building a small work of art—each filling exactly how you want it.
QDOBA’s strength is in its customization. The flame-grilled adobo chicken and fresh fajita veggies anchor their menu, while the 3-cheese queso pulls in plenty of loyal fans. The guacamole, always included, tastes homemade and makes even a simple rice bowl feel special.
Start with a burrito bowl for a lighter choice, or go for the veggie quesadilla if you want something hot and cheesy. Whether you dine in or carry out, you can expect both flavor and flexibility with every order.
5. Woody’s Ocean Grille Tinton Falls
(732) 935-0525Call
Woody’s Ocean Grille Tinton Falls takes a relaxed approach to coastal dining and mixes it up with some impressive Mexican-inspired dishes. Walking in feels like stepping into a spot that’s equal parts casual, beachy eatery and neighborhood favorite. What sets Woody’s apart isn’t just the friendly service—it’s the wide menu, where seafood meets Mexican flavors with confidence.
One of my go-tos here is the grilled fish tacos. The seafood is fresh and never over-seasoned, letting the natural flavor shine alongside crisp cabbage and a bright salsa. It’s the dish that made me realize Woody’s knows how to balance classic beach fare with south-of-the-border spices.
If you enjoy surf and turf, their shrimp quesadilla also delivers. The menu brings together the heart of a seaside grill with a nod to Mexican comfort food, keeping everyone at your table happy.
6. El Burro
(732) 256-9661Call
El Burro in Farmingdale has that unassuming look from the outside, but don’t let it fool you—inside, it’s pure flavor. This spot has a knack for nailing classic Mexican dishes, always served hot and generously portioned. The staff has a way of making you feel like a regular, even if it’s your first visit. I once dropped in on a whim and left telling everyone about their salsa verde.
What sets El Burro apart is their focus on honest, uncomplicated food. The chicken enchiladas come smothered in a house sauce that hits every taste bud without overpowering. Their rice and beans are always fresh and never an afterthought.
If you’re choosing just one thing, go for the carne asada tacos—they’re tender, perfectly seasoned, and capture what El Burro is all about. This is a reliable spot whenever you crave real Mexican food done right.
7. Pacos Tacos
(732) 851-4848Call
Pacos Tacos in Marlboro sets the bar for fresh, authentic Mexican food in Monmouth County. Walk in and you’ll notice right away that everything is made to order. The energy is bright and casual—perfect for a weekday lunch or a relaxed family dinner. My favorite visit ended with discovering their house-made green salsa, which instantly became a must for every future order.
The range here covers mild to bold flavors, making it easy for everyone to find their new favorite. The staff is also willing to adjust dishes for special diets, so it’s a welcoming spot for all tastes.
Try the chicken or veggie tacos if you want to taste their commitment to quality—they’re always packed with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. The portions are generous, and every bite feels crafted with care.
8. Casa Comida Mexican Restaurant
Casa Comida Mexican Restaurant in Long Branch is that friendly local spot where the atmosphere is vibrant and the food is always satisfying. When I visited, the staff greeted everyone with genuine warmth, making the place feel like a neighborhood gathering spot. The décor and energetic buzz inside set the stage for a memorable meal.
What distinguishes Casa Comida is their balance between classic recipes and creative twists. The menu is full of standout options, but the shrimp fajitas impressed me most—juicy, flavorful, and still sizzling when they reached the table. The rice and beans here are just as worthy of praise, always fresh and well-seasoned.
For first-timers, the veggie enchiladas are also a winning choice. This is a place where traditional recipes and fresh flavors make every dish a safe bet.
9. Escondido Mexican Cuisine & Tequila Bar
Escondido Mexican Cuisine & Tequila Bar in Freehold feels like a vibrant retreat after a busy week. The moment you walk in, the energy is lively yet relaxed, making it just as good for groups as for a quick solo bite. I once stumbled in during a rainstorm and ended up lingering over tortilla soup and crispy tacos, thanks to the friendly service and upbeat crowd.
What helps Escondido stand out is their commitment to fresh, top-quality ingredients. Each dish comes out with bold flavors and just the right touch of heat. The chicken enchiladas are a personal favorite—stuffed, saucy, and satisfying from the first forkful. Their made-to-order guacamole always hits the mark, chunky and rich with every dip.
If you’re looking for variety, try the shrimp tacos or a sizzling veggie fajita platter. This spot nails both the details and the big flavors, offering a true taste of Mexican cuisine in Monmouth County.
10. Mexico Lindo
Mexico Lindo in Freehold is a cozy reminder that quality doesn’t have to come at a high price. The space is unpretentious, and that’s part of its charm. On my first visit, I was won over by the aroma of fresh tortillas and the hum of regulars chatting away at their favorite tables.
What keeps people coming back is the honest, home-style cooking. The vegetarian tacos are packed with perfectly seasoned veggies and come with a side of rice that’s anything but ordinary. The staff makes everyone feel at home—even a quick lunch becomes a welcome break.
If you’re up for something hearty, the chicken enchiladas are a local favorite and worth every bite. This spot proves that simple flavors, done right, are unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some highly rated Mexican restaurants in Monmouth County, NJ?
Some of the most popular options include Dee Dee’s Kitchen in Colts Neck, Reyna’s Mexican Restaurant in Tinton Falls, and Escondido Mexican Cuisine & Tequila Bar in Freehold. Each spot is known for fresh ingredients and authentic dishes.
Are there any Mexican restaurants in Monmouth County with vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, many local spots, such as QDOBA Mexican Eats and Pacos Tacos, offer customizable dishes with vegetarian fillings. You’ll also find veggie tacos and quesadillas at several others.
Which Mexican restaurants in Monmouth County are best for families?
Reyna’s Mexican Restaurant, Casa Comida, and Bubbakoo’s Burritos are all family-friendly, with kids’ menus and a welcoming vibe.
Do Mexican restaurants in Monmouth County offer catering?
Absolutely. Reyna’s Mexican Restaurant, Pacos Tacos, and Casa Comida all provide catering services for parties and special events.
Are there places serving traditional Mexican food rather than just Tex-Mex?
Yes, El Burro, Mexico Lindo, and Mi Pueblo Querido are great bets if you’re after a more authentic, home-cooked style of Mexican cuisine.