10 Spots:Best Mexican Food in Denver

Discover where to find the best Mexican food in Denver, from street-style tacos and burritos to authentic regional dishes to the tastiest restaurants!

Denver’s dining landscape is enriched by the vibrant presence of Mexican cuisine, which is as significant as craft beer and locally sourced beef. The city offers a diverse range of Mexican restaurants, spanning from charming family-owned taquerias to contemporary upscale establishments. These eateries represent various regional styles, including Baja, Oaxaca, and Southwestern U.S. cuisine. While this list features 10 premium spots, it’s important to note that Denver’s current Mexican food scene constantly evolves and expands. Additionally, explore highly acclaimed food trucks and pop-ups such as Kiké’s Red Tacos and El Borrego Negro, known for their mouthwatering barbacoa. Excitingly, the chef from El Borrego Negro is about to launch Denver’s first pozole ria, La Diabla, which is worth checking out. This vibrant culinary landscape offers much for those seeking the best Mexican food in Denver.

1. Comal Heritage Food Incubator

best mexican food in denver

Comal Heritage Food Incubator

Comal in Denver’s RiNo neighborhood is renowned for serving the city’s finest Mexican cuisine. As a nonprofit project by Focus Points Family Resource Center, it empowers women entrepreneurs from local immigrant and refugee communities. Comal’s menu boasts a variety of delectable dishes, such as chicken in spicy pumpkin-seed sauce, pork shoulder in salsa verde, and chipotle shrimp tacos. By dining at Comal, you not only savor exceptional food but also contribute to the success of aspiring entrepreneurs. This unique initiative combines culinary excellence with a noble cause, making it a must-visit destination for the best Mexican food in Denver.

2. Mr. Peralta Mariscos

best mexican food in denver

Mr. Peralta Mariscos

Tucked away in Sunnyside, this unassuming restaurant stands out among Denver’s impressive selection of Mexican seafood specialists. Despite its modest size, the place is run by a small but dedicated staff who go above and beyond to deliver exceptional dining experiences. Their menu is a seafood lover’s dream, offering various dishes like aguachile, cocteles, botanas, ceviche, caldos, molcajetes, and more, bursting with the flavors of the ocean. In addition to their seafood delights, they also serve grilled and fried fish dishes that are equally delightful. And remember to try their irresistible goat birria tacos, which are an absolute must-try. This hidden gem truly shines when it comes to the best Mexican food in Denver.

3. Tortas ATM

best mexican food in denver

Tortas ATM

Tortas A Toda Madre, located in the West Highland neighborhood, is one of the two outstanding torterias on this map. This hidden gem is known for its exceptional sandwiches, or tortas, packed with various meats, cheeses, and condiments. What sets them apart is the inclusion of unique ingredients not commonly found elsewhere. For instance, they offer suadero, a flavorful cut of beef, and colito de pavo, a turkey tail. These distinctive additions bring a delightful twist to their sandwiches.

When it comes to the best Mexican food in Denver, Tortas A Toda Madre stands out with its delicious and innovative tortas. Whether you’re a torta enthusiast or simply seeking a satisfying meal, this spot will impress with its mouthwatering creations.

4. Los Carboncitos

best mexican food in denver

Los Carboncitos

Bringing the vibrant culinary traditions of Mexico City to the forefront, this beloved family-run restaurant in Highland, with additional locations in Villa Park and Aurora, offers a diverse menu that showcases the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine. One of their standout offerings is the huaraches, which are oblong masa flatbreads topped with various flavorful ingredients, ranging from steak and cactus to chicken and mushrooms. Another must-try is their alambres, tantalizing mixed grills featuring a combination of meat or seafood, veggies, and cheese, all served with warm tortillas.

This establishment takes center stage when experiencing the best Mexican food in Denver. Their commitment to preserving the culinary heritage of Mexico City shines through in every dish they serve. Whether you’re a fan of huaraches and alambres or simply eager to explore an extensive menu bursting with authentic flavors, this family-run gem is a destination to be noticed.

5. Bellota

best mexican food in denver

Bellota

Denver’s dining scene was shaken by the unexpected closure of Acorn last fall, but its replacement has exceeded all expectations. The new restaurant delivers exceptional Mexican cuisine, led by talented chef Manny Barella from Monterrey. Even the simplest classics are elevated to artful and complex creations. Picture tacos adorned with flavorful king trumpet mushrooms al pastor and charred pineapple or a blue-corn quesadilla filled with requéson, onions, and epazote, complemented by a jalapeño-cilantro vinaigrette. Indulge in the must-try sikil pak, a pumpkin-seed dip, accompanied by a suave agave spirit-based cocktail like the Mexico City Martini. This establishment truly offers some of the best Mexican food in Denver, where every dish showcases Chef Barella’s culinary prowess and innovation.

6. Xicamiti La Taquería Bistro

best mexican food in denver

Xicamiti La Taquería Bistro

Escape to Golden and discover a hidden gem run by a couple with roots in Chihuahua, Mexico. While their menu of burritos, tacos, and quesadillas is reliably delicious, their secret to success lies in their ever-changing lineup of imaginative specials. Brace yourself for a delightful surprise each visit. One day, you may encounter tacos and dorados bursting with mashed sweet potatoes, queso Oaxaca, and blistered chiles. Next, indulge in tamal-stuffed tortas, followed by hibiscus-peach tacos adorned with coconut and chipotle. As an added treat, they bottle their own infused mezcals and margaritas. Try flavors like jalapeño-cilantro or kiwi-tamarind for a unique twist. If you’re pursuing the best Mexican food in Denver, this charming spot in Golden is a must-try. Let their creative specials and handcrafted libations transport you to culinary bliss.

7. Lola Coastal Mexican

best mexican food in denver

Lola Coastal Mexican

Located in Denver’s vibrant LoHi neighborhood, this restaurant has long been a trailblazer in showcasing coastal Mexican cuisine’s diverse and rich flavors. However, a new chapter began when esteemed chef Javier Plascencia, originally from Tijuana, joined as a partner in 2019. Since then, the menu has evolved to reflect his renowned Baja-Med style, resulting in a truly exceptional dining experience.

Prepare your taste buds to explore flavors as you indulge in their seasonal offerings. Picture succulent grilled oysters complemented by serrano ponzu and machaca, or savor the delightful roasted spatchcock chicken with Manzanilla olive mole. The lobster enchiladas accompanied by aromatic arroz verde are a true treat, while the parfaits featuring jackfruit, green strawberry, and makrut lime provide a refreshing conclusion.

When discovering the best Mexican food in Denver, this restaurant is a standout. With the culinary artistry of Chef Javier Plascencia shaping every dish, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience that beautifully combines the coastal flavors of Mexico with innovative Baja-Med influences.

8. Chili Verde

best mexican food in denver

Chili Verde

Located in Jefferson Park, this vibrant and artsy restaurant is a hidden gem run by a family from Puebla, Mexico. Their menu revolves around the region’s specialties, offering an authentic taste of Pueblan cuisine. If you spot the word “poblano” in a dish description, whether a mole or chicken-stuffed crêpes, you can be sure it’s worth trying. However, their ultimate claim to fame is the festive chile en nogada. This mouthwatering dish features a roasted pepper filled with a delightful combination of beef, fruit, and nuts, all topped with a walnut cream sauce and sprinkled with pomegranate seeds. When experiencing the best Mexican food in Denver, this vibrant and welcoming spot is a must-visit for authentic Pueblan flavors and a delightful dining experience.

9. Zocalito Latin Bistro

best mexican food in denver

Zocalito Latin Bistro

This downtown restaurant is a true gem for those seeking the best Mexican food in Denver. Chef Michael Beary’s unwavering commitment to authenticity shines through as he works with farmers in Oaxaca to import rare and exceptional ingredients that are hard to find elsewhere in the U.S. The result is a culinary experience that delights the senses.

Indulge in the standout dishes that beautifully showcase these unique flavors. Treat yourself to the chicken tamales wrapped in fragrant hoja santa leaves and taviche chile mole. Explore the refreshing combination of shrimp and octopus in a tangy lemon-chilcosle dressing. And don’t miss the irresistible pork belly tacos, enhanced by the bold flavors of the negro chilhuacle salsa.

Prepare to be transported to the vibrant culinary landscape of Mexico as you savor each thoughtfully crafted dish. With Chef Beary’s dedication to sourcing exceptional ingredients, this downtown destination offers an unforgettable Mexican dining experience that sets it apart.

10. Tacos El Paisa

best mexican food in denver

Tacos El Paisa

When finding the best Mexican food in Denver, this place is like a cozy and welcoming roadside diner. It offers comfort, friendliness, and a reliable menu that satisfies cravings at any time of day. So whether you’re stopping by in the morning, at noon, or even late at night, they have something for everyone.

Indulge in various options, from classic tacos and burritos to seafood delights like shrimp-octopus cocktails and caldo de siete mares. They also serve Tex-Mex favorites like fajitas and chimichangas, ensuring there’s something to please every palate. And if you’re in the mood for breakfast for dinner, their huevos rancheros won’t disappoint.

Step into this welcoming eatery and experience Mexican cuisine’s comfort. With a menu that caters to all tastes and cravings, it’s the perfect place to satisfy your hunger any time of day.

For those seeking the best Mexican food in Denver, it’s time to embark on a culinary adventure. From the vibrant flavors of Pueblan cuisine at Chili Verde to the innovative Baja-Med influences of Plascencia and the comforting Tex-Mex classics at Tacos El Paisa, this city offers something for everyone. So whether you’re in the mood for a unique culinary experience or traditional Mexican fare, explore the best Mexican food Denver offers and discover what makes this city’s vibrant culinary landscape unique. Bon appetite!