Brooklyn does more than just borrow flavors from Mexico—it crafts experiences that breathe with local character and creative touches. More than once, I’ve found myself chasing the aroma of just-made tortillas drifting through a crowded street, only to discover a hidden gem that isn’t afraid to honor tradition while adding its own flair. Whether you’re a purist searching for soft corn tacos or on a mission to taste salsas as lively as Prospect Park on a Saturday, this borough delivers.
Consider this guide your passport to the most memorable Mexican food Brooklyn has to offer. Each spot on this list brings something fresh to the table—some with old-school heat, others with modern technique—but all with a genuine love for flavor. If you want to taste the real highlights of Mexican cuisine without wandering aimlessly, keep reading. Give your curiosity (and your appetite) proper treatment, one meal at a time.
Where to find the best mexican restaurants in Brooklyn, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best mexican restaurants in Brooklyn, NY:
- Chavela’s
- Bar San Miguel
- Oxomoco
- Gran Electrica
- Seamore’s
- Fonda
- Arepera Guacuco
- Habana Outpost
- Xixa
- Alma
1. Chavela’s
Step inside Chavela’s and you’ll notice right away that this isn’t a run-of-the-mill Mexican spot. Tall ceilings, hand-painted tiles, and a buzz of conversation set the scene for bold flavors. Their cactus salad and tamales make regular appearances in my food daydreams—they’re the kind of dishes that remind you simple ingredients can sing when made with care.
What makes Chavela’s shine is its mix of authenticity and creative edge, all while being vegetarian and gluten-free friendly. Tables fill up fast, and it’s no wonder.
I always recommend their tacos de nopales or enchiladas verdes. They’re fresh and bright, with flavors that shout “Brooklyn meets Mexico.” If you want a meal that feels both rooted and exciting, Chavela’s never disappoints.
2. Bar San Miguel
Bar San Miguel feels like a secret garden tucked in bustling Carroll Gardens. The first time I wandered in, I spotted the cozy back patio lined with twinkle lights and felt instantly at ease. They lean into classic Mexican flavors but add a Brooklyn twist—each dish feels handmade, no shortcuts.
The menu is best explored with friends, especially the tacos and enchiladas. Their vegetarian options like the rajas or black bean tacos are both hearty and rich. The salsas bring just enough heat, balancing out every bite.
I keep coming back for the enchiladas suizas: tangy salsa verde and good, melty cheese tied together in soulful comfort. Pair it with their fresh lime margarita, and chances are you’ll want to linger a little longer.
3. Oxomoco
Oxomoco has a way of turning a simple meal into a spectacle. My first visit left me thinking about wood-fired tortillas long after the last bite. This spot balances laid-back Greenpoint energy with the polish of a Michelin-star experience, never losing its warmth.
The crackle of the open fire comes through in every dish, making tacos unforgettable. Try the mushroom or squash blossom tacos if you want depth and smoke in every mouthful. The tlayuda, with its crispy corn base and fresh toppings, is impossible to pass up.
Each plate feels inventive but rooted in Mexican tradition—a hard balance Oxomoco hits perfectly. From brunch to dinner, there’s real creativity and attention to detail in every element of the menu.
4. Gran Electrica
Gran Electrica sits a stone’s throw from the Brooklyn Bridge, and it brings as much character as the view outside. The first time I ducked in after a walk along the water, the blend of bright murals and buzzing tables felt like a quick trip south. Fresh, local ingredients take center stage with every traditional dish, giving the menu a vibrant, seasonal touch.
If you’re here for an introduction, start with their guacamole and house-made chips—they’re crisp, creamy, and quietly addictive. The baja-style fish tacos and earthy mushroom tacos show how the kitchen marries Brooklyn’s produce with Mexican recipes.
Gran Electrica’s sunny outdoor garden makes a perfect escape, but it’s the focus on quality and bold flavor that keeps me coming back.
5. Seamore’s
Seamore’s brings a laid-back yet thoughtful vibe to Dumbo, where seafood meets fresh Mexican flair. On my last visit, I found the space bright and inviting, with big windows framing the city just beyond. Seamore’s draws its appeal from impeccably fresh ingredients and a menu that feels light, vibrant, and fun.
Unlike a typical taqueria, here you’ll find tacos that celebrate the best of the local catch. Try the blackened fish tacos: lively slaw, punchy salsa, and tender fish come together in a way that’s both simple and satisfying. Their cauliflower tacos are bright, zesty, and perfect for sharing.
If you want a taste of the sea washed in bold Mexican flavors, Seamore’s delivers every time.
6. Fonda
Fonda offers that rare mix of homey comfort and polished ambience, perfect for slow dinners or lively brunches. I’ve found myself lingering here, just to savor the deep flavors and relaxed feel of the outdoor patio—even in colder months, thanks to their heaters. The kitchen at Fonda excels at contemporary takes on Mexican classics, turning straightforward recipes into something memorable.
The vegetarian enchiladas de mole get my vote every time—dark, velvety sauce hugging fresh corn tortillas, packed with roasted vegetables. Their guacamole, made fresh to order, turns any meal into an occasion.
If you want proof that Mexican home cooking can feel both inventive and welcoming, Fonda is the answer. The menu is fresh, and the flavors stay with you long after you leave.
7. Arepera Guacuco
Arepera Guacuco brings a warm, homey feel to Bushwick, where the welcome is as generous as the portions. My first meal here was all about comfort—bright colors, friendly faces, and, of course, the aroma of arepas grilling just behind the counter. This isn’t strictly Mexican, but the fresh corn arepas and vibrant fillings echo the heart of Latin street food.
The menu is packed with vegetarian and vegan options, all made with the kind of care you hope for in a neighborhood spot. I highly recommend the reina pepiada arepa, creamy avocado and tender chicken spilling out of a crisp shell. Their black bean and plantain arepa is another favorite, and it hits all the right notes.
Come hungry—the flavors here are bold, and portions leave you satisfied long after the last bite.
8. Habana Outpost
Habana Outpost is the kind of spot where summer never really leaves. The first time I stopped by, I found myself drawn into the colorful outdoor space, surrounded by murals and laughter. This casual, eco-friendly spot is famous for good vibes and fresh street food with a Mexican-Cuban twist.
The grilled corn on the cob, dusted with cheese and chili, is a must-try. For something heartier, go for the veggie tacos or black bean burrito—both pack plenty of flavor and make the most of fresh ingredients.
No matter what you choose, the food tastes like sunshine on a Brooklyn afternoon. Habana Outpost shines brightest when you’re looking for an easygoing meal with energy and personality.
9. Xixa
Xixa isn’t your everyday Mexican restaurant—it’s creative, bold, and full of surprises. When I first visited, the dim lighting and fun playlist set a scene that felt more like a dinner party than a restaurant. The kitchen brings inventive touches to every plate, always respecting the roots of Mexican cuisine.
The menu takes risks, and it pays off. I recommend starting with the brussels sprouts in mole, which balance sweet and earthy notes in a way I haven’t found anywhere else in Brooklyn. The mushroom tacos, packed with texture and smoky flavor, are not to be missed if you’re searching for something both familiar and new.
If you’d like your Mexican food with a side of curiosity and flair, Xixa draws you in and keeps things interesting from start to finish.
10. Alma
+1 718-643-5400
Alma is one of those places where the view almost steals the show—rooftop seating lets you soak in the Manhattan skyline, making every meal feel a bit cinematic. The first time I brought friends here, we lost track of time over plates of well-seasoned tacos and lively conversation. Alma stands out for pairing its relaxed Brooklyn vibe with truly memorable Mexican dishes.
Their veggie breakfast burrito delivers serious flavor with smoky potatoes and fresh salsa; it’s a favorite for early risers. At lunch or dinner, the grilled fish tacos are a must: flaky fish, tangy slaw, and just the right kick of heat.
With generous portions and a laid-back energy, Alma is perfect for sharing food and skyline views—no matter the hour.
More Things to Try in Brooklyn, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best Mexican restaurants in Brooklyn for vegetarians?
Chavela’s, Xixa, and Gran Electrica offer plenty of vegetarian and vegan options without sacrificing flavor or creativity.
Where can I find authentic Mexican food in Brooklyn?
Look for places like Tacos El Bronco, Tortilleria Mexicana Los Hermanos, and Fonda—each spot takes pride in classic recipes and traditional ingredients.
Which Mexican restaurants in Brooklyn have outdoor seating?
Alma, Gran Electrica, and Habana Outpost all provide great outdoor spaces, with Alma winning bonus points for its rooftop views.
Are there Mexican restaurants in Brooklyn with gluten-free options?
Yes, several spots such as Oxomoco and Chavela’s make gluten-free dining easy and delicious, offering dedicated menu items and careful preparation.
Is delivery available from Mexican restaurants in Brooklyn?
Many top restaurants, including Fonda, Chavela’s, and Bar San Miguel, offer delivery as well as takeout, so you can enjoy vibrant flavors at home.