13 Must-Try Mexican Restaurants in Gilbert, AZ
Located in the southeast of the Phoenix area, Gilbert still has its small-town charm and a strong feeling of community. The welcoming mood extends to the local food scene too.
You can find various restaurants there that reflect Gilbert’s diverse population. Locals and visitor more embrace Mexican restaurants in Gilbert. Many restaurants serve delicious authentic dishes that honor Mexico’s culinary traditions.
The city has a Mexican place for every taste and budget – from taco shops with tasty tacos and tamales to full-service restaurants with colorful decor and mariachi music.
The many Mexican spots show how famous this cuisine is across cultures. They also celebrate the Mexican-American community’s critical role in Gilbert.
So, If you’re a tourist, checking out the best Gilbert Mexican restaurants below can give you more insight into choosing your location.
Mexican Restaurants in Gilbert
La Ristra New Mexican Kitchen
Discover La Ristra at 638 E. Warner Road in Gilbert. It’s a warm and family-run eatery serving genuine New Mexican flavors.
Step into a cozy, down-to-earth ambiance that resonates with traditional charm and genuine New Mexican vibes, making your dining moments even more special.
Enjoy the menu, featuring treats like Blue Corn Nachos, Chile Plate, Green Chile Tacos, and Ristras Relleno Dinner.
These recipes passed through generations, bring an authentic taste of New Mexico to your plate. But that’s not all—explore their extensive drink selection with over 100 tequilas.
Are you hosting a more extensive gathering or event? Count on La Ristra to cater to or accommodate your group with open arms.
For a one-of-a-kind, flavorful dining escapade, gather your loved ones and head to La Ristra.
Barrio Queen
You’ll love the energizing atmosphere and authentic Mexican flavors at Barrio Queen in Gilbert! This hip, street-style eatery celebrates the rich culture and cuisine of Mexico’s vibrant neighborhoods.
The Día de los Muertos decor fills the restaurant with a festive, social vibe. Their menu brims with traditional recipes straight from the barrios, expertly crafted for incredible taste.
You won’t find “Americanized” Tex-Mex dishes here. Barrio Queen stays true to Mexico’s culinary heritage. Sip margaritas, Mexico’s classic cocktail, as you savor enchiladas, tacos, and other authentic dishes.
Daily specials, happy hour deals, and seasonal menus add variety. Barrio Queen on North Gilbert Road opens seven days a week, with hours varying daily. For an unforgettable and uniquely Mexican dining experience, don’t miss Barrio Queen!
Joyride Taco House
Go on a joyful tacos ride to Joyride Taco House at North Gilbert Road in Downtown Gilbert. You can enjoy incredible tacos like juicy pork Adobada, sizzling carne asada, Baja fish, and fresh veggies.
Joyride radiates a laid-back vibe, perfect for spending quality time with family and friends. The groovy 1960s-inspired decor fills the interior with good vibes.
You’ll also find other Mexican favorites like nachos, quesadillas, and burritos loaded with flavor.
Wash it all down with their handcrafted margaritas, including the Tropicale and cooling Cucumber Serrano. Remember to try the thirst-quenching ranch waters and frosty pitchers of beer too!
Joyride offers weekday happy hour from opening until 6 PM with margaritas, ranch waters, beer pitchers, and wine.
Rio Rico Mexican Grill
Stop by Rio Rico at Park Village in Gilbert for authentic Mexican cuisine. This family-run Gilbert Mexican restaurant features a relaxing interior.
Their scratch-made dishes showcase authentic Mexican flavors – huevos rancheros and chorizo for breakfast or fajitas Chile rellenos and burritos for lunch. Especially try their Carnitas plate, which includes Machaca con Huevo, Chilaquiles, and beef fajitas.
Sip top-notch margaritas inside the full bar, and significant parking options are available. With friendly service and a casual vibe, Rio Rico makes enjoying Mexican cuisine an absolute delight.
Nando’s Mexican Cafe
You’ll feel right at home when you visit Nando’s in Gilbert near Lakeview Village.
Their welcoming staff serves up hearty portions of classic Sonoran dishes like tacos, chimichangas, and more in a modern, inviting setting.
Try local favorites like Pollo Rico or chicken fajitas. Or go for familiar bites like their take on seafood enchiladas and Barrio tacos.
During their happy hour from 3-6 pm Monday through Friday, you can score deals on chorizo bean tacos, pizzas, sliders, fajita quesadillas, and loaded nachos.
Quench your thirst with Nando’s Margaritas or Poor Man’s Margaritas (just a Tecate with lime and salt).
You can find a spacious indoor area for dining. Come to Nando’s Mexican Cafe for a fun time with great Mexican food and drinks!
Backyard Taco
Located at 1420 South Higley Road in Gilbert, Backyard invites you to savor tacos and other classics from South of the border.
The restaurant features outdoor and indoor seating to soak up the Arizona sunshine or beat the heat.
Their menu popular options include carne asada (steak), birria (shredded beef), pollo (chicken), and al pastor (pork) tacos.
If you are with family, order their Family Pack, which includes 1b of Meat, 16 Tortillas, salsa, and taco toppings.
Among the Mexican restaurants in Gilbert, Locals have voted Backyard the best taco in the Arizona East Valley for six years.
Isabel’s Amor
You can find Isabel’s Amor near Forum Nail Salon. Nana Isabel warmly welcomes you to Isabel’s Amor! She eagerly shares her cherished family recipes that have delighted three generations of the Vasquez family and countless friends.
With over 40 years of food-filled memories, Isabel’s Amor brings you the tastes you love made with care.
Isabel’s Amor menu includes slow-cooked chilis, flavorful carnitas, street tacos, homemade tamales, and more. You’ll also find dessert cocktails, wine, and tasty tequilas to sip.
With its tasty food and drinks prepared with love, Isabel’s Amor is the perfect place to gather with friends and family and make new memories.
Pescado Borracho
Visit Pescado Borracho in South Val Vista Dr of Gilbert for Mexican seafood in a laid-back yet classy setting.
Pescado Borracho welcomes families, couples, and out-of-town guests with its comfortable interior and super-friendly staff.
Seafood rules the menu with crispy whole fish, shrimp tacos, octopus appetizers, and their famous PB Burrito loaded with aquatic deliciousness.
Try margaritas or beers expertly paired with your meal from their extensive drink selection.
Those avoiding gluten can also find plenty of options to enjoy. Be sure to make a reservation or order online for delivery or take-out.
Sports fans will love the TVs by the bar; the music creates a festive vibe. In short, Pescado Borracho is one of the best Mexican restaurants in Gilbert.
Salt Tacos y Tequila
You’ll love the lively vibes and delicious food at Salt Tacos y Tequila in SanTan Village! This modern restaurant features attractive sugar skull artwork and comfy seating areas with big TVs – the perfect setup for a fun night out.
You’ll find authentic Mexican dishes with a modern twist on the menu, like their signature tacos, loaded macho nachos, burrito bowls, salads, and many more.
And with over 120 tequilas and handcrafted margaritas like the Cadillac and Cucumber, their drink menu is sure to impress.
Enjoy happy hour specials on drinks or go all out with their Mexican brunch featuring almost bottomless beverages.
With top-notch service and inviting decor to match its mouthwatering cuisine, Salt Tacos y Tequila is a can’t-miss spot for Mexican food fans in Gilbert!
Caldwell County Mexi-Q
Get ready for a one-of-a-kind taste adventure at Caldwell County Mexi-Q on North Gilbert Road! They’ve fused the best Texas BBQ and Mexican cuisine to bring you mouthwatering Mexi-Q creations.
Clay Caldwell, who owned the award-winning Waldo’s BBQ for 20 years, joined forces with his partner Julio to create this innovative Mexican and Texas BBQ mashup.
Clay brought his expertise in authentic Texas-style BBQ, while Julio shared his deep knowledge of Mexican cuisine.
Together, they’ve whipped up some Mexi-Q dishes like Brisket Birria Tacos, Smoked Chili Verde Burritos, and Brisket Tostadas in a welcoming modern farmhouse setting.
For a delicious Mexican-inspired appetizer, try the Roasted Creamed Elote. This dish includes roasted sweet corn and then topped with a creamy sauce flavored with traditional spices and ingredients.
You can even bring your furry friend to soak up the atmosphere on the outdoor patio! If you want BBQ with Mexican flavors and even better service, try Caldwell County Mexi-Q. You won’t be disappointed!
Gecko Grill
Come on in and take a seat at Gilbert’s beloved Gecko Grill! This cheerful Mexican eatery greets you with an outdoor bar perfect for soaking up the sunny atmosphere.
The tidy servers happily recommend their favorite dishes and keep the free chips, salsa, and bean dip flowing.
Gecko Grill freshly prepares fajitas, enchiladas, tacos, and quesadillas with tropical twists like mango chicken and shrimp. Significant portions of juicy protein and warm, fresh tortillas always hit the spot.
And don’t forget to sip a Paloma or their signature mango margarita – fruity cocktails that add even more flavor to the fiesta!
With its lively local vibe, TVs, generous helpings, and creative spins on classics, Gecko Grill promises a fantastic family meal. Join the crowds at this beloved Gilbert spot!
Rancho de Tia Rosa
Rancho de Tia Rosa welcomes you into its brightly colored hacienda in Gilbert. The ceramic tiles and patios create a warm, inviting atmosphere for diners.
This Gilbert Mexican restaurant has consistently delicious food, so it’s no wonder many families consider it their go-to spot.
When you walk in, the colors, flavors, and textures give you a one-of-a-kind experience. The tortilla soup contains spicy chicken broth, vegetables, avocado, salsa, cheese, and crispy corn chips in one bowl.
The restaurant also offers take-out from their taqueria and family meal deals. For example, the Family Taco Meal Deal for $45 includes a pound of meat, 16 street-size corn tortillas, Mexican white cheese, pico de gallo salsa, a large bag of chips, and shredded lettuce.
Stop by for Happy Hour Monday through Saturday and enjoy specials like the Prickly Pear Margarita with lemon, orange juice, lime, and prickly pear.
Fridays and Saturdays, they feature live Mariachi music and a magician. With generations of family, recipes focused on homemade Mexican cuisine, Rancho de Tia Rosa has become a beloved dining spot in the Gilbert community.
Boca Taqueria
Boca Taqueria operates in three locations in Arizona. The first opened in 2007 with an old Mexico look in Mesa. This original spot is famous for its cozy atmosphere.
2017 they opened a second, more modern, industrial location in Gilbert. It shares a parking lot with other shops, making work lunches or family dinners convenient.
Boca offers fajitas, chimichangas, quesadillas, and other Mexican favorites. They have specials like the Low Carb Fajitas with lettuce wraps instead of tortillas. They also supply family packs for groups. These include tacos, burritos, or enchiladas with sides.
Their happy hour has deals on margaritas, beer, and appetizers like taquitos and mini chimichangas. Boca can cater events too. They will customize menus for any party size. With daily specials and catering, Boca Taqueria aims to be people’s go-to for Mexican food.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
What type of Mexican food can I find in Gilbert?
You can find diffrent authentic Mexican dishes in Gilbert, including tacos, burritos, enchiladas, tamales, fajitas, chimichangas, tortas, pozole, menudo, and more. Both traditional and modern creative takes on Mexican cuisine are available.
Which Mexican restaurants in Gilbert are suitable for families?
Family-friendly Mexican restaurants in Gilbert with kids’ menus include Nando’s Mexican Cafe, Gecko Grill, Rancho de Tia Rosa, and Caldwell County Mexi-Q. These spots offer lively atmospheres and outdoor seating.
Where can I find the best tacos in Gilbert?
Locals highly recommend the tacos at Joyride Taco House, Backyard Taco, Barrio Queen, and Salt Tacos y Tequila for freshly made with high-quality ingredients.
What Mexican restaurants offer vegetarian options?
Pescado Borracho, Barrio Queen, Nando’s Mexican Cafe, and Gecko Grill are some spots with good veggie tacos, burritos, fajitas, and other meatless Mexican fare.
Which restaurants have the best margaritas in Gilbert?
Top choices for handcrafted margaritas and extensive tequila selections are Salt Tacos y Tequila, Joyride Taco House, Barrio Queen, Pescado Borracho, and Rancho de Tia Rosa.
Are there Mexican restaurants with gluten-free options in Gilbert?
Many Gilbert Mexican restaurants like Boca Taqueria, Salt Tacos y Tequila, Gecko Grill, and Pescado Borracho offer gluten-free menu items.
Note: Since all the information in this article is based on the date of publication, for some reason (health, economic, social), these businesses may be temporarily or permanently closed or moved to another location.
