Finding authentic Mexican flavor in Charlotte isn’t hard—unless you want it done right. I’ve strolled through neighborhoods trailing the scent of fresh tortillas and found plates that make you wonder if you hopped the border for dinner. From the sizzle of carne asada to the perfect hint of cilantro, this city’s Mexican spots know how to impress, no mariachi band required.
You don’t have to decipher endless online lists or get lost in the taco shuffle. Whether you crave charming taquerias, modern spins, or spots open late, Charlotte’s got hidden gems and buzzworthy institutions. If you’re ready for flavors beyond the usual, pull up a chair—these are the places serving warmth, tradition, and the sort of plates you’ll remember long after the last salsa swipe.
Where to find the best mexican restaurants in Charlotte, NC
Here are some of the top spots to find the best mexican restaurants in Charlotte, NC:
- Dos Caminos
- Paco’s Tacos And Tequila
- Cabo Fish Taco Baja Seagrill
- Azteca Mexican Restaurant
- Sabor Latin Street Grill
- Miguel’s Restaurants Incorporated
- Superica
- Salsas Mexican Grille
- Cantina 1511
- Bakersfield
1. Dos Caminos
Dos Caminos nails the balance between fiesta energy and real-deal Mexican flavor. Walking in feels like catching a flight straight to the heart of a Mexico City evening, all without leaving South Tryon. Their made-to-order guacamole is reason enough to linger at the table, bright with lime and a whisper of jalapeño.
Signature fajitas arrive with just the right sizzle, impossible to ignore and hard to share. I often find myself savoring the roasted veggie plate, proof that you don’t need meat for bold taste. Tacos here lean street-style, packed and punchy with every bite.
Dos Caminos stands out for its lively vibe and gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options. Order confidently—Charlotte’s culinary map just wouldn’t be complete without this spot.
2. Paco’s Tacos And Tequila
+1 704-716-8226
Paco’s Tacos And Tequila takes Tex-Mex up a notch, mixing southern hospitality with bold, memorable flavors. Walking in, the aroma from the wood-fired grill lets you know your meal is about to get interesting. Every table feels like a celebration, yet the menu is thoughtful, rooted in heritage cooking.
What makes Paco’s stand out is its attention to detail; every dish, from the cheese enchiladas to the sizzling fajitas, tastes carefully crafted. I’ve lost track of how many times the rich flavors in their roasted veggie fajitas surprised me—layers of smokiness, all paired with house-made tortillas.
Paco’s is a win for dietary needs, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Order the fajitas, and don’t forget the chips and salsa—they’re unapologetically addictive.
3. Cabo Fish Taco Baja Seagrill
Cabo Fish Taco Baja Seagrill brings the Pacific coast straight to NoDa. Fresh seafood, punchy colors, and the hum of conversation make every visit feel like a beach day—even if you’re in the city. The vibe here is laid-back but never lazy, with a menu that celebrates the best of Baja flavors.
The grilled mahi mahi tacos are standout favorites, loaded with fresh slaw and just the right hint of tang. I still remember my first bite—crispy, bright, and instantly addictive. Vegetarians aren’t left out, thanks to their spicy tofu and avocado tacos.
Cabo Fish Taco also offers gluten-free and vegan choices, giving everyone a taste of the coast. Don’t skip the margarita menu; it’s as inventive as the food.
4. Azteca Mexican Restaurant
Azteca Mexican Restaurant feels like an understated local secret—classic, warm, always reliable. The moment you walk in, there’s a sense of celebration, thanks to colorful decor and the inviting aroma of spicy simmered sauces. It’s the place I pop into when I crave comfort without pretension.
Their enchiladas verdes and vegetarian combo platters hit the nostalgic sweet spot, full of flavor and perfect for sharing. Every visit surprises me with generous portions and the friendly, no-rush service that keeps regulars coming back.
Azteca delivers for every appetite, with vegetarian and vegan choices woven throughout the menu. If there’s one thing to order, make it the enchiladas—they strike the balance of savory, fresh, and deeply satisfying.
5. Sabor Latin Street Grill
Sabor Latin Street Grill gives Charlotte a genuine latin street food vibe, buzzing with energy and flavor from the moment you step inside. Every visit feels like a quick trip through a busy plaza—colorful, casual, and full of unique tastes. Sabor thrives on fresh ingredients and creative combinations that go beyond the ordinary.
I always find myself drawn back to their grilled veggie tacos and plantain bowls, a testament to how simple ingredients can create bold flavor. The sauces at the salsa bar are worth sampling—each packs its own kick and character.
Sabor stands out for its approach to fast-casual, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. If you want food with personality and heart, start here.
6. Miguel’s Restaurants Incorporated
Miguel’s Restaurants Incorporated may look low-key from the outside, but step in and you’ll discover a haven for traditional Mexican fare. The staff greets diners like family, making return trips feel inevitable. What always brings me back is their commitment to true, from-scratch cooking.
The chile rellenos here steal the show, stuffed with cheese and spices, then coated in just enough sauce to tie it all together. For a lighter bite, the vegetable fajitas are satisfying without skimping on flavor or texture.
Miguel’s also shines for its vegetarian and vegan options that go beyond token dishes. Order with confidence—every plate comes packed with freshness, heart, and a little bit of home-cooked comfort.
7. Superica
Superica marries cool vintage style with the warm energy you want in a Tex-Mex joint. The dining room pops with lively colors and the clatter of plates, making every meal here feel like a mini getaway. Chef Ford Fry’s vision comes through in the vibrant flavors and the commitment to both classics and fresh takes.
The charred vegetable tacos win me over every time—simple but never boring, with each topping carefully layered. If you’re feeling hungry, the enchiladas served with house-made sauces are rich, comforting, and impressive in portion.
Superica doesn’t disappoint those looking for vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. The menu is as flexible as it is flavorful, setting a high bar for Mexican cuisine in Charlotte.
8. Salsas Mexican Grille
Salsas Mexican Grille stands out for its casual, family-first atmosphere and plates that radiate freshness. There’s always a sense you’re being taken care of, whether it’s lunch with friends or a cozy dinner after a long day. The servers seem to know exactly when you need another basket of chips, which is a win in my book.
The veggie fajitas come sizzling hot and vibrant, piled high with peppers and onions. The generously portioned combo plates make it easy to sample a bit of everything. Don’t sleep on the homemade salsa—it’s the definition of crave-worthy.
Salsas excels at variety with vegetarian and gluten-free selections throughout the menu. This spot delivers comfort food done right, without pretense.
9. Cantina 1511
Cantina 1511 has held a steady place in Charlotte’s Mexican food scene for good reason. It’s bright, bustling, and doesn’t just serve a meal—it creates an entire atmosphere, thanks to its blend of lively décor and a packed house that always promises a good time. Every dish tastes like it could have come straight from a kitchen in Jalisco.
Their vegetarian enchiladas and classic street corn are go-tos, each bringing rich flavor to every forkful. One night, I ordered the chiles rellenos and found myself scraping the plate, not wanting to miss a single bite. The menu is refreshingly varied without being overwhelming.
Cantina 1511 stands out for its dedication to tradition, with great vegetarian and gluten-free selections crafted from scratch. Expect bold, real taste in every order.
10. Bakersfield
Bakersfield delivers Mexican street flare with a casual twist that pulls in crowds night after night. The space feels tucked away and lively, balancing energy with a sense of comfort. What’s impressive is how the menu sticks to street food roots, letting fresh ingredients shine in every dish.
The black bean tacos and grilled mushroom tacos are a must, reminding me that simple can be just as satisfying as showy. Everything hits the table fast, fresh and packed with balanced flavors. The staff keeps things upbeat but never rushed.
Bakersfield stands out for its vibrant spins on classics, strong vegetarian and gluten-free options, and a no-fuss approach that keeps both locals and newcomers coming back.
More Things to Try in Charlotte, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best authentic Mexican restaurants in Charlotte, NC?
A few favorites include Azteca Mexican Restaurant, Sabor Latin Street Grill, and Miguel’s Restaurants Incorporated. Each of these spots is known for genuine flavors and welcoming service, offering everything from classic enchiladas to street-style tacos.
Which Mexican restaurants in Charlotte offer vegetarian or vegan options?
You’ll find solid vegetarian and vegan choices at Superica, Dos Caminos, and Sabor Latin Street Grill. Many others on the list cater to plant-based diners with specially marked menu items.
Are there Mexican restaurants in Charlotte with gluten-free menus?
Definitely. Cantina 1511, Bakersfield, and Dos Caminos each offer gluten-free dishes. Many restaurants are happy to customize plates to suit dietary needs, so just let your server know.
Where do locals go for Mexican food in Charlotte?
Locals love spots like Azteca, Three Amigos, and SouthBound for casual meals, reliable quality, and that extra-friendly neighborhood vibe.
Do these restaurants offer takeout or delivery?
Yes, most featured restaurants—including Salsas Mexican Grille and Paco’s Tacos And Tequila—offer takeout. Some have delivery via third-party apps, so you can enjoy Mexican comfort right at home.