Philadelphia’s food scene is legendary, but while cheesesteaks and soft pretzels often steal the spotlight, the city’s Mexican culinary landscape is equally vibrant and diverse. From the bustling streets of South Philly to the historic charm of Old City, authentic taquerias and upscale Mexican kitchens are redefining the local dining experience.
Whether you are a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, navigating this rich tapestry of flavors can be an adventure in itself. The key to finding the best Mexican food in the City of Brotherly Love lies in understanding the regional diversity of the cuisine.
Philadelphia is home to a significant population with roots in Puebla, Oaxaca, and Veracruz, which means the menus here go far beyond the standard Tex-Mex fare found in other parts of the country. You will find everything from complex, mole-slathered enchiladas to fresh, citrusy ceviches and hand-pressed tortillas made from heritage corn.
For the discerning diner, the difference between a good meal and an unforgettable one often comes down to the details. The best establishments in Philadelphia prioritize fresh ingredients, house-made salsas, and traditional cooking methods that have been passed down through generations.
Whether you are looking for a quick bite of birria tacos or a sit-down dinner featuring tableside guacamole and top-shelf tequila, the city has a table waiting for you. We have scoured the neighborhoods, consulted local food critics, and relied on community word-of-mouth to curate a definitive guide to the city’s top spots.
This list focuses on the quality of the food, the authenticity of the atmosphere, and the consistency of the service. We understand that “authentic” can mean different things to different people, so we have included a mix of traditional street-food havens and modern, chef-driven concepts.
Philadelphia’s dining scene is fiercely loyal, and once a restaurant earns the trust of the locals, it becomes an institution. The venues listed below represent the pinnacle of what the city has to offer right now, combining culinary skill with a deep respect for Mexican culture.
They are the places where the margaritas are strong, the corn tortillas are warm, and the hospitality makes you feel like family. Whether you are planning a casual date night, a family celebration, or simply hunting for the best al pastor in the city, this guide is your roadmap.
We have organized the list to help you find exactly what you are craving, from the smoky depths of a bowl of pozole to the crispy perfection of a fish taco. Prepare to explore the flavors that make Philadelphia a true destination for Mexican cuisine.
El Vez
| Address | 121 S 13th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 928-9800 |
Excellent place in the heart of the city. Went here off a recommendation from a friend and it did not disappoint. A very vibrant and unique atmosphere, which was loud but not enough to not be able to hear my counterparts.
The staff were very friendly, and enjoyed a bit of banter that my friend had.
We all got various margaritas. The highlights were the frozen spicy pineapple and the golden gloves. They all had amazing flavor!
I got the taco sampler with 5 different tacos on it. They were all very good and flavorful. It was great having different variations to pick and choose from. The mahi mahi and the carnitas ended up being my favorites.
Recommended by the hotel, easy walk from city center.
Felt welcomed, seated quickly
Excellent service, kind and professional.
Drinks came quickly and felt no pressure to order.
Guacamole - many types , had originall, very good. Chunky but watch out - very filling.
Corn empanadas were really good - great sauce too.
Shared taco platter - really nice presentation and tasted great too.
Extensive tequila menu also.
Would definitely return
The food at El Vez Philadelphia was absolutely delicious! Everything was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented, with a great variety of Mexican-inspired dishes. The flavors were rich and well balanced, and every bite was enjoyable. Definitely a great place to visit if you’re looking for delicious food in Philadelphia!
Some places are old ye faithfuls for a reason and that can be said about El Vez. I’ve been coming here now for the better part of two decades ever since I was living in Philly as an undergrad.
I was lookin for solid options for my quick 36 hours back in my old hometown and this could not have been a more clutch pick. Centrally located right downtown, open and sizable space including a seemingly always bumping bar, and the best food, drinks and service you could ask for. The servers made nothing of a cranky toddler who was with us at the table for as long as the kid and dad could put up with it.
The area has changed a lot since I started going here and has only gotten nicer with all of Philadelphia buzzing around.
So good! The tacos were very delicious! 🤤 the drinks were good too however the nachos were meh. The Photo Booth was a nice touch that me and my friend enjoyed!
MI VIDA
| Address | 1150 Ludlow St, Philadelphia, PA 19107 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (445) 447-3097 |
I've been wanting to try this place out for awhile. So, when looking for a place to meetup with a friend for lunch, I suggested here so I can finally try it out. Gives a very upscale like feel, with a tropical chic ambiance. I made a reservation to be on the safe side, but it wasn't really busy for the time that we were there (around 12pm on a Monday). The hostess was very friendly and greeted me with good energy when I walked in. She promptly checked me in and brought me over to our table. Our waitress during our meal was really great too! Good energy, personable made some great suggestions on food options to and did a good balance of checking on us while giving us time to enjoy food or talk.
Now to the food - it was pretty good. I was concerned it would be a place with all the good decor, ambiance and vibe with bad food, but luckily that wasn't the case. We both felt the portion sizes were good and the food has good flavors. I got the Express Lunch which gave a sampling of a couple of core menu items. Because of the portion size, I was able to take some home with me to finish later - after eating chips, salsa and guacamole before our entrees, I was too full to eat everything there.
Cool spot that I plan and want to check out again, especially during like happy hour.
Everything provides an amazing experience! Sadly is not an option in Florida! The food was very flavorful, the drinks amazing and the service was excellent… highly recommended!
My fiancé and I came here for date night and ordered the $45 per person family-style menu. The restaurant is absolutely beautiful, and the food was good overall. We enjoyed most of the dishes, especially the guacamole, queso, tacos, and enchiladas. My only complaint about the food was the main steak entrée. It was sliced into about six very small pieces, and for the price, the portion was disappointing.
The biggest issue was the service. Since we ordered the family-style menu upfront, I expected the courses to come out at a better pace, but we waited about 20–30 minutes between each course. Our waitress also seemed distracted and rushed throughout the evening. She asked if we wanted more soda, took our glasses, and never brought them back or refilled them until we reminded her about 15 minutes later.
Overall, the food was good, but the service really took away from what should have been an enjoyable date night. I would still be willing to give Mi Vida another chance, maybe during happy hour, because I do think the food has potential. I just hope the service is much more attentive next time.
The food is really good, our server was amazing and the restaurant is very beautiful.
This place is fantastic. The atmosphere feels like lo-fi and dim lighting blended seamlessly. The service was welcoming and respectful. We had Rebecca as our server, and she was informative and timely. Everything from the flavor of the drinks to the portion size and quality of food was outstanding. We will be back.
El Fuerte de Loreto Philly
| Address | 1412 S 5th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (445) 285-1214 |
We went on a Saturday morning to try the Mexican breakfast. The service was pleasant and food was served quickly since we were the only people there. It is on the pricey side for the portion size. Really enjoyed the sweet fried plantains in the Huevos Motulenos!
We absolutely adored our experience here. The service was fantastic, the food was perfect (my fiancé got the salmon special with poblano sauce, I got the fajitas), and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. The service staff consistently checked on us and made us feel at home. After only one experience, we’re confident that this is going to become one of our favorite spots in the city.
We came for taco Tuesday and had a fantastic experience. The food was finger licking delicious, the service was superb, and the atmosphere was great. The care and attention put into every detail from the cleanliness and decor to the fresh flowers and exceptional service really stood out. It’s clear that they take great pride in their business and genuinely care about customer satisfaction. We will definitely be back and highly recommend this place to others!
We came here for brunch on a rainy day so it wasn’t too crowded which made the experience even better. Our server was super friendly, attentive and took the time to answer all of our questions. The restaurant has really nice decor and a cozy ambiance that made the meal feel relaxing and enjoyable.
Everything we ordered was delicious and the portion sizes were very generous. I left completely full and satisfied. Definitely a spot I’d recommend checking out if you’re visiting Philly!
This is my second time here and the food has been amazing both times. I had the blueberry waffles and my friend had the creme brulee waffles. They were both delicious and the waffle is light with a strong vanilla flavor. The service is always great and this is one of my favorite spots in Philly. Such a gem. Thank you!
La Catrachita Taqueria
| Address | 1201 S 9th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | (267) 876-7187 |
Great food. Me and my wife ordered tacos al pastor and a chicken torta. So much flavor and the portions are great. If you get one torta and fries it's enough to split for two if your on a budget. This is definitely a place you want to try different things. We also got an orchata and jugo de jamaica. Its almost an hour drive from where I live, but it's worth the trip. The tacos was so good I forgot to take a picture first lol
This place is known for their birria, and I think it is okay, normal. The portion is big overall, but price is not cheap so reasonable I guess. The quesadilla is okay. I think the quesa birra taco would be better but somehow I ordered wrong so will update next time I try. I don't recommend the ramen because the noodle is overcooked; they do give a lot of meat tho. I also tried al pastor and campechano (steak, al pastor, and chorizo (slightly spicy)). They are both okay, but would love to have some pineapple in there. Would like the option to be able to mix birria taco with others. Watermelon agua fresca is good.
IVE HAD BETTER
chicken was dry and some bits were crunchy. Beef was dry as well. Kidney beans on the nachos were cold. Prefer black beans. Who puts kidney beans on nachos. Nacho chips were soggy and stale. I’d say this was a tourist spot right next to Genos and Pats steaks bcuz the price for better birria cost way less. My daughter ate the birria ramen and said it was delicious. She’s 6. They also surcharge 4% for card and credit. You order on a kiosk then pay for your food at a separate kiosk like a papi store on the corner. Bathroom code is printed on the receipt. Bathroom isn’t available until you order. No pico de gallo. No sour cream. Jus chili pepper sauces. Sour cream packet is runny like water and doesn’t taste like sour cream.
The service is great, the staff is very friendly. The food is cooked to order and absolutely delicious.
My friends ordered the birria burrito, and I ordered the birria ramen and tacos.
The birria broth is full of flavor. The ramen is packed with meat and cheese.
There are no tables in the restaurant, but there is counter space where you can eat.
They also have lots of desserts that looked absolutely delicious.
I will be back.
Gracias chef!
Amazing birria tacos. We had the mixed chicken and beef. The consommé is also outstanding for dipping. Also quite a full dessert case. (Pic of the huge flan!)
El Mictlan Restaurant
| Address | 2053 S Beechwood St, Philadelphia, PA 19145 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (267) 876-7012 |
I recently visited this place, and honestly, I feel scammed. The tacos were overpriced, and the presentation was really uninspired. Plus, the containers were poorly packed, making it a mess. I ordered all three desserts: the chocolate cake was the only decent one. The tres leches was dry—definitely not supposed to be—and the cheesecake was just awful. For the price, I expected high-quality food, but it didn’t live up to the hype at all, especially after seeing all their social media. This is a total pass for me.
This place is easily one of the most disappointing restaurants I’ve tried in Philly. I ordered online because of all the hype and positive reviews, but the food wasn’t even close to what I expected. It was overpriced, flavorless, and so unappetizing that I couldn’t even finish my meal.
What I don’t understand is how a restaurant can constantly brag about having great food when the quality is this bad. The food lacked seasoning, had no real flavor, and felt like a complete waste of money. For the prices they’re charging, customers should be getting something memorable—not food that makes you regret ordering it after a few bites.
The hype surrounding this place makes absolutely no sense to me. Between the disappointing food and underwhelming experience, I honestly can’t recommend it to anyone.
Visited this cute restaurant for the first time in July 2025 and absolutely adored it! We loved the authentic and homey feel of the dining room, and the food was wonderful! The Nopalito cactus soup was delightful (and spicy!), the enchiladas mole were SO yummy, and the Guajillo Risotto was to die for! The horchata tres leches was light, fluffy, and a great way to cap off the meal. The servers were a little timid and confused at times, but overall we had a great time and can't wait to come back!
We had a very nice experience at El Mitclan. The food was tasty and well presented. The waitress was nice and helpful.
I had the seared tuna tacos. It was very good and had the right level of spice. My wife had the grilled salmon entrée: very nice presentation and taste.
I highly recommend it !
We have the most amazing experience here! We found this place on accident a few weeks ago and since been back. The service is 10/10 our waitress was so attentive and very sweet. If you are looking to dine at an authentic Mexican restaurant ( coming from a Mexican herself) look no further. Always bring some tequila they sell a wonderful margarita mix. Cannot say enough great things about this place!!! We will be back like always
Buena Vista Mexican Restaurant and Bar
| Address | 767 S 9th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (267) 319-1818 |
The best skinny margarita I’ve ever ever had, and I’ve had many! Ask for Maria, she is kind, attentive and super sweet. Highly recommend for an excellent Mexican place in the area!
Had the flautas and chicharrones. Everything tasty. Very good, just not amazing. Everything is expensive these days and it's typical for restaurants to add 2.50 if you're using credit card. What can you do. Tip was not automatic, unlike what someone else said. But it was VERY cold by the stairs because there's an INSANE draft coming from a hole in the ceiling that they won't patch. Not great value. Really wish they would have horchada
If you’re looking for delicious Mexican food, drinks, and low key vibes. This is the spot. This is the second time I’ve been here. The first time was only for drinks at the bar but this time we sat and got some lunch. The carnitas chimichanga 👌 and the mezcal margarita was on point. Shout out to the entire staff, especially Maria who took care of us the whole time! As a NY-er that comes into Philly often, this will be my go-to that gets a return visit.
small but has large variety! our sever/ bartender was super sweet. my boyfriend and I enjoyed our meal.
Good music and atmosphere. The food is delicious! There is something for everyone even the pickiest eaters. I got birria tacos and they were very flavorful. Seriously good. Came with beans and rice-also delicious! Staff is very friendly and attentive. 10/10
Holy Guacamoly
| Address | 1722 Sansom St, Philadelphia, PA 19103 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 AM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 AM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 AM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 AM Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 AM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 AM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 AM |
| Phone | (215) 375-9900 |
Apologies ahead for the photos. We came here hungry and chose coz of reviews. At first I didn’t had high expectations so started eating our food. But,tbh the food was pretty good. The service team was great. I wish the tables were well kept and clean. That’s the only thing I could think of about the entire experience. Hope food remains the same authentic flavor & quality.
PS: food portions are always good (sometimes even more)
My sister, her friend, and I stopped in around 5:45 for a light dinner. It was our first time ever trying, and it was an outstanding experience all around! The food is SUPER GENEROUS and PHENOMENAL.
The staff was incredible! Super friendly and attentive.
Hoping to see Holy Guacamole come out our way super soon!!!!!!
A decent place, good, high-quality food, and friendly staff.
Perfect service and amazing environment. Food was delicious! A lot better than any place in New York, will definitely be coming back!
Very calm, genuine atmosphere with polite and non-rude services. FOOD SMELLS AMAZING ONCE YOU WALK IN.. Busy during the night but Food is GREAT… THIS MY 2nd BOWL
La Jefa Café
| Address | 1605 Latimer St, Philadelphia, PA 19103 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 475-5500 |
What a fabulous spot! Came for brunch so we could try their pastries too. The concha with mole, volcano ash and chocolate had great flavors but was a little bit dry. The chilaqueles omelet was incredible and I loved the little salad with pickled beans that it came with. Was great for breakfast, seems like it's also a vibey fun spot for drinks and dinner in the evening
While dining at Pietramala, my server recommended breakfast at La Jefa, a beautifully-designed space modeled after the restaurants found in Mexico’s Guadalajara. Around the corner from my hotel, I went the next morning and was not disappointed.
On a Sunday, their famous brunch doesn’t start until 10am, but their cafe is open before that. Walking in around 9:30am, I ordered their ham and cheese croissant and the Totomoxtle latte with corn husk, burnt tortilla, espresso, and milk. It was balanced between savory and sweet and so unique. The croissant had a subtle taste of fennel and mustard, which made it stand out.
Service is excellent as is the space. After having spent a summer in Guadalajara, it transported me back to Mexico’s second-largest city.
Two weeks ago, my wife and I were looking for a quick spot to eat, before we took in a show. The spot we picked had a long wait, so we ventured around the corner and found THIS place! Walk inside: quaint and cozy, a few tables up front and more towards the back behind a partial curtain. The hosting human was amazing and accomdating and the food BEYOND reproach. So much so that we came back two weeks later (tonight) to celebrate our anniversary. Tonight we had the same affable and accommodating host, and this amazing bartender whose label was "J.D." JD showed us an amazing time, kept bringing us excellent food and better company, and made our special day even better-er. Not enough can be said about this gem in the City; reservations will guarantee you a seat when you show up but you don't lose much by showing up, speaking with that charming host-human and waiting for a seat at the bar. As for the menu - toss the thing in the air and throw a dart; whatever you hit you will adore. Their ceviché will make you wonder why you don't eat ceviché every day. Their drinks are mexicali-leaning and artfully crafted. And their desserts were super tasty! In fact, next person to read this: go there and ask for JD, and prepare for one of the best casual culinary experiences you've had in the City. AND you don't have to worry about the bill - we were two people, we had an entree, and app, three drinks and two desserts and did not cross the $100 mark. 5 stars for "La Jefa" - we've added this to our list of favorite spots and you should too!/
Stopped by for a snack
Stayed for a 3 course meal
John the bartender is INCREDIBLE
Everyone functions like a family with really prompt service and quick communication
They have homemade sodas….on TAP.
The nopalitos were so fresh and crunchy. Their vegetarian menu options are phenomenal. The star of the show is somehow the dessert. Like after so many bangers how can they also produce incredible conchas to end the meal??? I was happy crying by the end. Just. 10/10 everything. Must visit
The best spot in the city. Drinks are unbelievable, the care and attention to detail with their drink ingredients is what sets them apart. I never knew I needed warm beef jerky with guac and my life will never be the same again. Another amazing restaurant from a wonderful family.
Cholula Mexican Grill
| Address | 134 N 52nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19139 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (267) 969-3913 |
Second visit to Cholula. My first visit I had the birria tacos, so this time I tried the Lomo Saltado. The steak had good flavor but was a little chewy. There was rice topped with a half of sliced ripe advocado. The homemade fries were soft from sitting under the hot steak, onions, and peppers. The vegetables were sautéed soft but not mushy, and everything together was still very tasty. This location is take-out only and the food was still hot when I got home. Tip: Great choice, if you want something different from the usual tacos!
Thank You for choosing West Philly for your establishment! I had the Birria Tacos and a Guava Jarritos. I was given 3 cheesy and well seasoned tacos. The tacos came with some refreshing sliced cucumber, lime slices, and included a generous cup of consomme. There were 2 sauces a verde and a red they both tasted like they were made fresh. The cilantro sprinkling was great since I love cilantro. They have a breakfast menu that has turkey product options. I appreciate that because many people don't eat pork. There is no seating just take out.
This San Diego native gives their California burrito five full stars. It’s almost impossible to find a burrito spot on the east coast that doesn’t just fill with rice and beans, let alone that gets the carne asada right. But Cholula gri got it right. Thank you to the staff and workers here for making something so delicious.
Just stuffed my face with one of their burritos and hot damn it slapped so hard I'm gonna wake up from my food coma with bruises. Chips and guac are also on point. And the folks that run the place are great. This spot is well worth your hard earned cash!
Update:
Been to this spot many more times since my original review. I'm a mail carrier so I'm always coming in needing more calories than a Blue Whale during mating season. This place ALWAYS slaps. I'm proud to give these folks money I work hard for. Their food is just awesome!
I keep coming back here for a reason. The ingredients are always fresh, the sauces are insanely flavorful, and the meat is consistently great. Honestly some of the best Mexican food in Philadelphia.
amazing food, went on cinco de mayo and will 1000% be back
Tacoteca Mexican Grill
| Address | 1829 John F Kennedy Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19103 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (215) 964-9981 |
I heard about this place through a coworker last week and I’ve been here easily 5 times since!
I cannot get enough of their honey chipotle quesadilla. Large size/portion and they fill it up nicely, and are happy to add more if you ask 🙂
I also tried their chips and queso last time and hadddd to get it again. My favourite sauce is their cilantro lime.
This has become a regular place for my lunches, and I find myself thinking about it even when I’m not downtown at work.
Everything tastes so fresh, and that’s why I keep coming back. Plus it’s awesome they’re open until midnight, as some days I’m at work very late into the evening.
This is a must stop for anyone in centre city!
Fries probably weren't the move but the ingredients were all fresh and about the same price as their big chain competition but better tasting to me!
Great food and customer service to all. The managers energy and thoughtfulness made the experience more heartwarming and pleasibg to be in. Id love to try new and better ootions they have based off how amazing this was
Delicious hand-slaughtered halal Mexican.
Better than Chipotle but has all the fixings you'd get there 😌🤩
All ingeredients taste fresh and are seasoned to perfection.
10/10, 5 stars.
Don't believe me? Come try for yourself 😎
Sincrerely, a Previous Chipotle Veteran
First time trying the place with my family, ordered various item, very generous portions.
The person responsible was generous to give us a discount. Definitely recommend to try out.
Picositos Mexican Restaurant & Bar
| Address | 1122 S 9th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 660-9594 |
My husband n i love mexican food, and have tried so many restaurants. Im gonna say Picositos is our top favorite! All their food are delicious and ohhh their salsa both red and green are literally the best! Everyone there are so nice, place is clean, good vibe! Totally recommend!
Stopped in today while coming up to the Italian Market to shop. I wanted to grab a quick solo bike, and this was the perfect place. Hector was extremely friendly and welcoming, and the food was extremely delicious as well. I got the chorizo tacos, which were some of the best I’ve had in a while. Fast service, kind people, and a great experience overall.
Don’t walk, Run!!!! Excellent service, amazing authentic food!!! Can’t go wrong with the Birria burrito, Birria taco, horachata, and piña colda!
We enjoyed a family dinner here with our teens. The food was delicious! We had tacos bistec, tacos al pastor, chicken rings quesadillas, and an order of chips and guacamole. Everything was seasoned well, and the meat was tender and juicy but not fatty. Highly recommend! We'll be back.
Great service and prices! I believe I was able to get a combo of an Agua Fresca and 3 Tacos for around $10.
Tu Rinconcito
| Address | 17 N 3rd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (445) 223-2733 |
Found this place on TikTok and sooo glad that I did! My family and I took a ride to try their matcha and coffee. We ended up getting matcha, coffee lattes and nachos. I don’t know what was better, the matcha, the coffee or the nachos. We LOVED EVERYTHING, even went back for second lattes. I couldn’t decide on which matcha flavor to try so I got both, so glad I did! The nachos were filled with fresh ingredients, excellent guacamole and delicious chicken. Prices were on point, great atmosphere. We will definitely be back!
Catching up on past reviews. I have been here twice now and had two very different experiences. My first visit was solid (3/19). The young lady who took my order was welcoming and pleasant. The horchata matcha was delicious. While the fried steak quesadilla was a bit heavy on the dough and lacking in meat, the overall experience was still positive.
My second visit (5/17) fell short on service. The two young men working struggled with basic hospitality and manners. We were not greeted when we walked in, and they forgot to bring us our table number. Fortunately, the food remained consistent. The horchata matcha was just as good as the first time, and the chicken and steak tacos were enjoyable.
The matcha is one of the best I’ve had. It is sweet, but they use ceremonial tea and the authentic matcha prep method. The syrups are house made which means a lot to me. My gf and I travel to the city just to get this matcha. Customer service is always great! They always repeat my order back to me and are super nice! Food is really good I recommend the Mexican street corn and the Tortas :).
I wouldn’t trade this place for anything. I found Tu Rinconcito on TikTok and, honestly, I thought it was Puerto Rican food at first but it turned out to be Mexican, and wow… it did not disappoint.
The menu isn’t huge, but that’s how you know everything they make is done right. Every bite was so good, fresh, and full of flavor. You can really tell they focus on quality over quantity.
I loved it and would 100% recommend it to anyone. Everybody needs to try this spot it’s definitely worth it.
my family and i absolutely loved the drinks, the food was pretty good, with the exception that they went cheap on avocado on my tostadas. i’m deducting another star after hearing a recent experience of my family visiting afterwards. they described an awkward and hostile experience, including being stingy on my sister using the bathroom before she ordered, and missing my brothers drink but not believing him and counting all the drinks on the table to verify.
it sounds like it was different people working than when we originally went. we are a mexican family, so feeling unwelcomed in a mexican establishment is not only ironic, but ridiculous.
Tips for Choosing the Right Mexican Restaurant in Philadelphia
Finding the perfect spot to eat involves more than just searching for “tacos near me.” The culinary landscape is vast, and knowing what to look for can elevate your dining experience from average to exceptional. Whether you are a purist looking for regional authenticity or a foodie searching for innovative fusion, these guidelines will help you navigate the menus and neighborhoods of Philadelphia like a local expert.
1. Look for House-Made Tortillas and Masa
The foundation of any great Mexican meal is the tortilla. Restaurants that take the time to nixtamalize their own corn or press their tortillas by hand are demonstrating a commitment to quality that will translate to the rest of the menu.
If you see a restaurant boasting about their “heirloom corn” or “house-made masa,” you are likely in for a treat. Avoid places where the tortillas are stiff, dry, or clearly store-bought if you are seeking an authentic experience.
2. Follow the Crowd and the Neighborhood
In Philadelphia, the most authentic Mexican food is often found in the neighborhoods where the community lives, particularly in South Philly around the Italian Market and East Passyunk.
If you walk past a small, unassuming storefront that is packed with families and Spanish-speaking patrons during lunch hours, that is a sign of excellent, affordable food. Don’t judge a book by its cover; some of the best barbacoa and carnitas are served in very casual settings.
3. Check the Salsa and Sauce Complexity
A restaurant can be judged by its salsas. A great Mexican kitchen will offer a variety of condiments, from bright, fiery salsas verdes to deep, smoky red salsas. Beware of places that serve only a bland, watery tomato dip.
The complexity of the mole is also a key indicator; a true mole poblano takes hours, if not days, to prepare and should have a balance of sweet, spicy, and savory notes.
4. Explore Beyond the Standard Taco
While tacos are essential, the best restaurants in Philadelphia offer a deep dive into regional specialties. Look for dishes like chiles en nogada, tlayudas (Oaxacan pizzas), cochinita pibil, or huaraches.
If a menu has a section dedicated to seafood (mariscos) or offers weekend-only specials like pozole or menudo, it is a strong indicator that the chefs are cooking for a clientele that demands tradition.
5. Consider the Agave Spirit Program
For many, a Mexican meal is incomplete without a proper drink. The quality of a restaurant’s margarita often mirrors the quality of its food. Look for places that use fresh lime juice and real agave nectar rather than sour mix.
If the bar has a curated list of Mezcals and Tequilas, or if they offer flights, it shows a dedication to the broader culture of Mexican dining and hospitality.
Philadelphia’s Mexican food scene is a dynamic and ever-evolving treasure trove waiting to be explored. While the classics will always have a place in our hearts, the constant influx of new regional concepts and chef-driven pop-ups means there is always something new to taste.
By prioritizing fresh ingredients and supporting the local families behind these establishments, you are not just eating a meal—you are participating in a rich cultural exchange.
So, whether you find yourself squeezing into a bustling taqueria in South Philly or sipping a smoky mezcal in a dimly lit Center City lounge, take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship in front of you. The dedication to flavor, family, and tradition is what makes the Mexican restaurants of Philadelphia truly world-class.
