Nashville’s food scene sparkles with more than just barbecue and hot chicken. Mexican cuisine here has its own rhythm, blending tradition with local character in neighborhoods from East Nashville to downtown. If you think finding a crave-worthy taco in a city known for country music sounds unlikely, think again. I’ve wandered through every salsa-scented doorway, taste-tested guacamole, and made a personal project of spotting the fluffiest tortillas this side of the border.
This guide pulls together the best spots for everything from street-style tacos to elegant Mexican dining. Whether you seek smoky salsas, house-made tortillas, or lively patios, you’ll find somewhere to satisfy your cravings. You’ll know which menus deserve your appetite and avoid those forgettable plates. Get ready—these restaurants, handpicked after plenty of hungry research, show off just how much personality Nashville’s Mexican food scene has to offer.
Where to find the best mexican restaurants in Nashville, TN
Here are some of the top spots to find the best mexican restaurants in Nashville, TN:
- Mas Tacos Por Favor
- Bakersfield
- bartaco
- Chuy’s
- Taco Mamacita Nashville
- Saint Añejo
- Nudie’s Honky Tonk
- Chuy’s
- Cerveza Jack’s
- Nectar Urban Cantina
1. Mas Tacos Por Favor
Tucked away in East Nashville, Mas Tacos Por Favor doesn’t rely on bright signs or fancy décor. Instead, the first thing you notice is the line of locals who keep coming back, drawn by the unbeatable flavor packed into every taco. This spot captures the casual spirit of a roadside taquería, with a simple chalkboard menu and a scent that’ll reel you in from the sidewalk.
From my first visit, the fried avocado taco made a believer out of me—crisp, creamy, and perfectly matched with tangy slaw. The elote (Mexican street corn) is another must, rich and smoky with shaved cheese and fresh lime. Both highlight how Mas Tacos turns fresh, humble ingredients into crowd favorites.
Stop by for lunch or dinner, especially if you’re interested in vegetarian or gluten-free options that never feel like an afterthought. At Mas Tacos, every bite feels honest, fresh, and full of Nashville charm.
2. Bakersfield
Bakersfield sets the stage with its energetic vibe just a short walk from the hustle of Broadway. The first time I dropped by, the buzz and scent drifting from the open kitchen gave away what to expect: bold, unpretentious Mexican street food crafted to please a crowd.
Here, their vegetarian options aren’t just side thoughts—think roasted mushroom tacos and black bean creations that shine with depth and spice. The tacos are small but mighty, each bundle wrapped in soft corn tortillas and bursting with balance and flavor.
I’d steer any first-timer toward the rajas taco for its smoky poblanos, and the queso is the go-to starter. Bakersfield delivers quality ingredients in a lively setting, offering a taste of Mexico’s street fare with Nashville style.
3. bartaco
Sip a cool drink and settle into the breezy charm of bartaco on 12th Avenue South. The laid-back, coastal-inspired setting has a way of convincing you to stay a while, even if you only planned to pop in for a quick snack. My curiosity paid off here—after a few tacos and a fresh-squeezed lime agua fresca, I wished I’d found it sooner.
What makes bartaco unique is its combination of creative fillings and bright flavors, all presented on perfectly soft tortillas. The crispy portobello taco is both hearty and fresh, while the cauliflower ‘not taco’ bowl brings a colorful twist for those craving something different.
Order the guacamole to start and try a spread of tacos to get a sense of the diverse menu. This spot doesn’t just serve Mexican-inspired food—it serves up a full-on, easygoing experience you’ll want to revisit.
4. Chuy’s
Chuy’s brings a vibrant splash of color and bold Tex-Mex energy to Nashville’s Opry Mills. When you walk in, the funky decor and friendly service let you know this isn’t your average chain restaurant. Every dish has a home-cooked quality that turns a quick dinner into something to remember.
One bite of their “big as yo’ face” burrito, and you understand why regulars keep coming back. The hand-rolled tortilla, paired with your choice of filling, is packed with flavor and made fresh to order. Vegetarian and gluten-free options abound, so everyone can get in on the fun.
Order the veggie enchiladas or their classic guacamole for a true sense of Chuy’s laid-back Tex-Mex style. For a lively, crowd-pleasing meal, Chuy’s is hard to resist.
5. Taco Mamacita Nashville
Taco Mamacita Nashville gives Mexican food a playful twist in the heart of Germantown. The space buzzes with energy, somewhere between taco dive and cool hangout. I’ve sat on their sunny patio with friends, working through a basket of house chips and realizing each taco has its own personality.
Their menu isn’t afraid of mixing it up, blending Southern and international flavors. The “General Homeboy” taco pairs crispy shrimp with sweet chili slaw, while the vegetarian “Freakin’ Vegan” keeps things hearty and bright. Their guacamole hits all the right notes, creamy and perfectly fresh.
Go for the enchiladas or try one of their fresh Peruvian chicken plates if you’re feeling adventurous. This is a place where fresh and inventive truly mean something.
6. Saint Añejo
Saint Añejo captures a modern edge in the Gulch, where exposed brick meets vibrant murals and every table seems to hum with conversation. I remember visiting on a weekend and watching plates of artfully composed tacos drift by, each one as tempting as the last. The whole place feels a little like a celebration—without ever tipping into chaos.
The menu leans into bold, regional Mexican flavors. The sweet potato tacos with smoked cashew crema are a must for their surprising depth, and the house-made guacamole is a crowd-pleaser, chunky and bright.
Try the roasted vegetable enchiladas for a comforting, hearty plate that still manages to feel light. With a huge selection of non-alcoholic margaritas and brunch fare, Saint Añejo is a polished, lively spot to up your taco game in Nashville.
7. Nudie’s Honky Tonk
See Menu
Nudie’s Honky Tonk brings together classic country swagger and a dash of Mexican-American flavor in one of Nashville’s most storied spaces. Walk inside, and you’re instantly hit with music, glittering memorabilia, and a rooftop view that can turn a meal into a memory. I once spent an afternoon here, feet tapping along to live tunes while waiting on a plate of loaded nachos—worth every bite and the lively wait.
The menu covers both bar classics and south-of-the-border favorites. The tacos are generous, especially the veggie option with fresh salsa and a side of house-made chips. It’s easy to settle in, sip a chilled drink, and soak up the atmosphere that only Nudie’s can offer.
Order the street corn and a plate of their tacos for the perfect mix of comfort and flavor, all wrapped up in Nashville history.
8. Chuy’s
+1 615-321-2489
Stepping into Chuy’s near Vanderbilt feels like entering a Tex-Mex daydream, complete with quirky decor and a menu that refuses to take shortcuts. I remember a lunch here where laughter came easy and the food showed real fresh-from-the-kitchen energy. The portions are generous, but everything still feels made with care.
The “big as yo’ face” burrito, with its made-to-order filling and pillowy tortilla, is a must for anyone who shows up hungry. Vegetarian diners have plenty to smile about—from spinach enchiladas to loaded nachos, each dish tastes thoughtful rather than routine.
Their house guacamole is always spot-on, and with gluten-free options available, it’s the sort of place you can visit with a crowd and keep everyone smiling. For a satisfying Tex-Mex fix in Midtown, Chuy’s has the formula just right.
9. Cerveza Jack’s
Cerveza Jack’s drops a laid-back splash of SoCal style into downtown Nashville. When I stopped in, it felt like trading Broadway for a day at the beach—lively, breezy, and filled with energy. The staff keeps things relaxed while the scent of wood-fired meats drifts from the open kitchen.
The menu is unapologetically bold, focused on smoky Mexican classics with a twist. The signature tacos are packed with grilled veggies or fire-roasted chicken, all tucked into warm tortillas that never disappoint. For something different, try the machetes—giant stuffed tortillas that are perfect for sharing and full-on flavor.
Cerveza Jack’s nails those sunny, West Coast flavors without losing the charm and hospitality that Nashville is famous for. Order the grilled veggie tacos, grab a sunlit seat, and enjoy the effortless fun this spot brings to the heart of Second Avenue.
10. Nectar Urban Cantina
Nectar Urban Cantina is a hidden hangout that blends relaxed Nashville spirit with bright, fresh Mexican-inspired dishes. Tucked in Donelson, this spot feels both trendy and neighborly. I stumbled in for brunch once and wound up lingering through lunch, falling for the shaded patio and chilled, inviting vibe.
The kitchen puts a healthful twist on classic street food. The veggie tacos burst with roasted flavor, while the burrito bowls layer bold seasonings and loads of color. Their brunch menu is equally tempting—think avocado toast with a zesty kick or sweet potato hash for something different.
Start with the street corn and finish with churros if you’re sharing plates. The menu is built to please everyone, with plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free finds worth coming back for.
More Things to Try in Nashville, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated Mexican restaurants in Nashville?
Some crowd favorites include Mas Tacos Por Favor, Bakersfield, bartaco, and Saint Añejo. Each brings its own unique flavor and style, so there’s a spot for every mood and craving.
Do any Mexican restaurants in Nashville cater to vegetarian or vegan diets?
Yes, plenty do. Spots like Mas Tacos Por Favor, Nectar Urban Cantina, and Taco Mamacita offer strong vegetarian and vegan options, with fresh ingredients that don’t skimp on flavor.
Where can I find authentic street tacos in Nashville?
For street-style tacos, Mas Tacos Por Favor, Taqueria del Sol, and Bajo Sexto Taco are solid bets. They focus on simplicity, fresh toppings, and traditional recipes.
Are there any Mexican restaurants with gluten-free choices?
Most places on this list—such as bartaco, Chuy’s, and Nectar Urban Cantina—provide gluten-free options. Always ask your server to double-check ingredients and preparation methods.
Which Mexican places in Nashville are good for groups or families?
Try Chuy’s, Rosepepper Cantina, or Pancho and Lefty’s Cantina. These restaurants have large dining rooms, kid-friendly menus, and easygoing atmospheres great for gatherings.
Is it easy to find brunch at Mexican restaurants in Nashville?
Absolutely. Restaurants like Nectar Urban Cantina and Saint Añejo serve creative brunch items, mixing classic breakfast with a twist of Mexican spice.
Do these restaurants offer takeout or delivery?
Yes, nearly all offer takeout, and several partner with delivery services so you can enjoy your favorites at home. Check individual restaurant websites for details.