Finding good Mexican food in Highland, NY isn’t about chasing trends. It’s a matter of knowing where to look and what to order, without getting lost in fluff. I once found myself hungry and skeptical in Highland, wandering into a spot just as they brought out a platter piled high with burritos and salsas. The smell alone made me drop any doubts. One bite, and I realized the bold, comforting flavors you dream about after a long day are alive and well here.
Highland’s local scene is sprinkled with restaurants that take Mexican cuisine seriously—no shortcuts, no watered‑down menus. Whether your taste leans toward simple classics or you crave generous plates and real spice, this town delivers. This guide cuts through the noise, focusing on authentic taste, consistent quality, and the kind of hearty meals you’ll want to recommend. If you’re ready to put your hunger in good hands, read on. The tacos, the mole, and maybe the best fresh guacamole in Ulster County are just up ahead, waiting.
Where to find the best mexican restaurants in Highland, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best mexican restaurants in Highland, NY:
- El Paso Paso Restaurant LLC
- La Catrina Mexican Restaurant
- Fresco Tortillas
- Salsa Fresca Mexican Grill
- Coyote Flaco
- La Kermes Mexican Restaurant
- El Bracero Mexican Restaurant
- La Fonda Mexicana Restaurant Inc
- Mexican Mexican Mexican
- El Covarruvias
1. El Paso Paso Restaurant LLC
El Paso Paso Restaurant LLC sits quietly on Vineyard Avenue, but what happens in the kitchen speaks loudly. The first time I dropped in, a basket of warm tortilla chips and a side of tangy salsa hinted I was in the right place. Everything felt homemade, from the refried beans to the hearty rice.
The chiles rellenos and soft chicken tacos set this spot apart. Each bite has depth—robust flavors without any unnecessary flair. It’s clear El Paso Paso cares about craftsmanship, not shortcuts.
Pair your meal with their fresh guacamole or a comforting bowl of tortilla soup. These staples show off the warmth and confidence of real Mexican cooking; you’ll taste balance in every spoonful and crunch.
2. La Catrina Mexican Restaurant
La Catrina Mexican Restaurant is easy to spot—just look for the inviting buzz coming from its corner of the parking lot on Albany Post Road. My first meal here was a family dinner, where the laid-back vibe made everyone feel right at home. There’s no rush, only friendly faces and the steady sizzle from the open kitchen.
The menu is stacked with familiar favorites, but the standout for me was the enchiladas verdes—tender chicken, lively tomatillo sauce, and perfectly melted cheese. Each bite was fresh and full, not just spicy for the sake of it.
Don’t skip their street corn or the sizzling fajita platter. Both offer a true taste of Mexican comfort, showing off La Catrina’s knack for classic recipes done right.
3. Fresco Tortillas
Fresco Tortillas, tucked away near Vassar College, is proof that you don’t need frills to have serious flavor. My first visit was pure curiosity—I needed a quick lunch and ended up with a new favorite. Service is unfussy, and prices stay easy on the wallet.
Their namesake tortillas are impossibly fresh and form the backbone of everything from soft tacos to burritos stuffed generously. I was hooked by the way each filling—from grilled vegetables to chicken—tasted vibrant and clean, never heavy.
Try the grilled veggie tacos or the classic chicken burrito. Both let the homemade tortillas shine, reminding you that authentic Mexican staples sometimes just need the right dough and a little know-how.
4. Salsa Fresca Mexican Grill
Salsa Fresca Mexican Grill always feels sunny, even on a cloudy afternoon. I stopped in with a couple of friends and found the dining room buzzing, everyone happily scooping up house-made salsas. You can taste the care that goes into every fresh ingredient.
The customizable burrito bowls are the real draw—think smoky grilled chicken, crisp veggies, and rice packed into one perfect bite. If you love heat, try their signature hot salsa; it’s bold, without overwhelming the dish itself.
Order the guacamole with freshly fried chips to get a real sense of their style. Salsa Fresca lets quality speak for itself, making it a go-to for anyone craving straightforward, satisfying Mexican food.
5. Coyote Flaco
Coyote Flaco is the place I visit when I want more than just good food. The atmosphere is always lively, and with over two decades in the game, their confidence shows with every plate. My first taste was their classic tortilla soup—a broth rich enough to stand on its own.
There’s a sense of heritage in dishes like their pollo asado, cooked over a gentle flame and finished with a hint of citrus. It’s that extra care that sets Coyote Flaco apart from the rest.
Go for the vegetable enchiladas or the shrimp fajitas if you want something bright but deeply satisfying. Every bite delivers that honest, from-scratch flavor that keeps locals coming back for more.
6. La Kermes Mexican Restaurant
(845) 471-6193Call
La Kermes Mexican Restaurant is one of those places that feels like a special find, tucked right on Academy Street. I tried it on a rainy night and found the interior bright, bustling, and instantly comforting. There’s a sense of family here that goes deeper than the decor.
The mole poblano is the star, rich and layered with subtle spices—exactly how mole should taste. Their rice and beans don’t just fill space; they’re essential, well-seasoned sides that round out every plate.
Sample their tacos de pescado or the fresh salsa for something lighter. At La Kermes, even the simplest dishes taste generous, as though you’ve been welcomed to someone’s dinner table.
7. El Bracero Mexican Restaurant
El Bracero Mexican Restaurant has the kind of charm that makes Main Street feel like your own backyard. The first meal I had here was a lunchtime detour—one that turned into a habit. It’s welcoming, not only in service but in the familiar, hearty aroma that greets you at the door.
Their carne asada is perfectly seasoned and arrives sizzling, while the salsas, made in-house daily, are bright but never overpower the mains. You notice straight away that nothing is rushed, from the hand-pressed tortillas to the careful braise on slow-cooked beans.
Try the chicken enchiladas or the vegetable burritos for a generous helping of their style. El Bracero is all about honest flavors and comforting classics, served just how you’d like them.
8. La Fonda Mexicana Restaurant Inc
(845) 471-2021Call
La Fonda Mexicana Restaurant Inc feels like stepping into a friend’s home, where the air is rich with spices and the sound of laughter. I went in with a craving for old-school comfort and found a menu that delivers everything with warmth and color.
Their tamales are soft and full of flavor, wrapped in corn husks and generously topped with fresh salsa. The attention to detail here makes even a simple bowl of rice worthy of mention.
Try their enchiladas verdes or the vegetable quesadilla. Each plate feels crafted by someone who’s cooked these recipes a thousand times and knows exactly what needs to shine.
9. Mexican Mexican Mexican
(845) 471-6193Call
Mexican Mexican Mexican does away with any extra fuss, letting bold flavors speak for themselves. I landed here on a whim one evening and was rewarded with plates that were straightforward, fresh, and just what I needed. The space is casual and unpretentious, making it easy to settle in and enjoy.
The sopes are a standout—thick corn cakes stacked with beans, lettuce, and cheese, each bite satisfying and bright. You can tell every dish gets individual attention, right down to the generous use of fresh cilantro and crisp vegetables.
Go for their tacos de pollo or vegetable tostadas for something quick and filling. This spot nails the art of comfort food, Mexican-style, without cutting corners.
10. El Covarruvias
(845) 849-9486Call
El Covarruvias is one of those places where the mood feels upbeat and the food arrives fast, but never rushed. I stepped in curious and left impressed by how balanced and lively each plate tasted. There’s a genuine energy that makes every meal here feel personal.
The burritos are a mainstay—packed with rice, beans, and your choice of filling, always wrapped tight and finished on the grill for a perfect golden edge. Their fresh house salsas add just the right kick.
If you want something classic, opt for their tacos with grilled chicken or vegetables. El Covarruvias keeps it simple but always satisfying, great for both quick lunches and relaxed dinners.
More Things to Try in Highland, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are some of the best Mexican restaurants in Highland, NY?
A: Some favorites include El Paso Paso Restaurant LLC, La Catrina, Fresco Tortillas, and Salsa Fresca Mexican Grill. Each spot offers its own twist on classics like tacos, enchiladas, and burritos.
Q: Do any Mexican restaurants in Highland, NY offer vegetarian options?
A: Yes, most places offer a range of vegetarian choices. Look for vegetable enchiladas, burrito bowls, or tacos with fresh toppings at spots like La Kermes and Salsa Fresca.
Q: Is it common to find halal or haram-free options?
A: Yes, many Mexican restaurants in Highland, NY highlight vegetarian or seafood dishes that strictly avoid haram items, so you’ll find something suitable in most kitchens.
Q: Are there kid-friendly options on the menu?
A: Absolutely. Most restaurants will have mild dishes like cheese quesadillas, bean burritos, and rice bowls that younger eaters enjoy.
Q: Which places are good for takeout or quick bites?
A: Fresco Tortillas and Salsa Fresca Mexican Grill are known for fast service and easy takeout. Both are reliable when you want good food on the go.