14 Best and Must-Try Mexican Restaurants in Nashville, TN
Nashville is famous for its music, culture, and food. But did you know that it also has some of the best Mexican restaurants in the country? You can find everything from authentic tacos to spicy enchiladas to refreshing margaritas in Music City.
Mexican food has a long history in Nashville. It started when immigrants from Mexico came to the area in the early 20th century and shared their cooking with the locals. Since then, Mexican food has become a part of Nashville’s rich and diverse dining scene, drawing in residents and tourists.
In this blog post, we’ll show you some of the top Mexican restaurants in Nashville. You’ll love their tasty dishes, cozy atmosphere, and friendly staff. No matter your occasion, you can find a Mexican restaurant in Nashville that suits your taste.
Mexican Restaurants in Nashville
Saint Añejo
Saint Añejo is one of the best Nashville Mexican restaurants that celebrate the culture and flavors of Mexico.
You can enjoy over 120 varieties of tequila and mezcal, as well as craft margaritas and Latin cocktails made with premium spirits and exotic ingredients.
The menu features house-made guacamole, creative tacos, and chef specialties inspired by regional traditions.
The restaurant has a cozy mezzanine called the Tequila Library, perfect for hosting private events like birthday parties or tequila tastings.
You can also experience the vibrant atmosphere of McGavock Street from the sizeable elevated patio or the convertible windows that open up to the street.
Here are some favorites:
- Chimichanga: A crispy fried burrito stuffed with smoked chicken, spicy chorizo, cotija cheese, roasted peppers, pico, cilantro, and onions.
- Mexican Pizza: A thin, crispy crust topped with tender carne asada, melted Oaxaca cheese, and savory charro bean—a pizza like no other.
Mas Tacos Por Favor
If you’re looking for a local favorite, visit Mas Tacos Por Favor. Although it may be challenging to locate, follow the crowds, as Mas Tacos is typically bustling during lunch and dinner.
You can find Mas Tacos Por Favor just north of the Maxwell Area, close to McFerrin Avenue and West Eastland Avenue.
Their menu offers a delightful selection of Mexican dishes, including flavorful tacos, comforting soups, sides, and more. Additionally, make sure to take advantage of their refreshing lime margaritas.
Here are some favorites:
- Avocado Taco: Savor the creamy goodness of avocado and beans in this mouthwatering taco.
- Chicken Tortilla Soup: Warm up with this hearty soup, loaded with chicken, tomatoes, onion, garlic, and chiles.
Rosepepper Cantina
If you’re looking for a lively Mexican restaurant in East Nashville, you’ll love Rosepepper Cantina. It’s so popular that people from all over the city come here to enjoy “The Rosepepper,” as the locals call it.
The menu includes Sonoran Style Mexican cuisine, a blend of flavors and ingredients from different regions. Their house-made margarita mix will amaze you with its refreshing and tasty.
And if you’re a tequila lover, you can explore their full bar, which has over eighty kinds of tequila. You can sip them on their vibrant outdoor patio or inside their cozy and colorful dining room.
Rosepepper Cantina is the perfect place to have a fun and festive meal with family or friends. Come and see why it’s one of the best Mexican restaurants in Nashville.
Here are some favorites:
- Al Carbon: Savor the smoky flavor of grilled carne asada or chicken, topped with fresh cilantro and onions, wrapped in warm corn tortillas.
- Sonora: A hearty burrito filled with your choice of tender shredded beef or chicken, along with beans, rice, and Rojo sauce.
Bakersfield
Located in Encore Condominiums, Bakersfield is one of our favorite taco places in Nashville. Many downtown hotels and shopping places are just a short walk from Bakersfield.
You can savor the flavors of Mexico with its street-style dishes and over 100 kinds of tequilas and American whiskeys.
Find a simple and refreshing menu featuring tacos, taquitos, enchiladas, and sharable sides. From classic to spicy, their ten taco options will delight your taste buds.
Here are some favorites:
- Fish Taco: Crunch on a crispy fish taco with a zesty tabasco lime sauce and a refreshing citrus cilantro slaw.
- The Trio: Dip into a trio of chips, creamy guacamole, and spicy rojo & Verde salsas.
- Johnny: Indulge in a cheesy enchilada with mixed greens, cotija cheese, bacon, hearts of palm, red onion, avocado, and toasted almond.
Nada
If you’re in Aertson Midtown of Nashville, check out Nada, a stunning Mexican restaurant with various seating options, from the patio to the booth to the window.
Nada has also opened locations in Columbus, Indianapolis, Cincinnati, and North Bethesda, bringing its casual Mexican cuisine and ambiance to the east coast.
At Nada, you’ll find friendly staff and a lively atmosphere. Book a table in advance for busy nights and brunch hours.
Here are some favorites:
- Pork Al Pastor: Savor the tangy salsa verde and juicy grilled pineapple, topped with fresh onion and cilantro on a soft corn tortilla.
- Carne Asada: Enjoy the tender and flavorful beef with crisp lettuce, pickled onion, creamy lime sauce, and melted cheese.
bartaco
Located on 12 South (Nashville), inBartaco is a chic Mexican place that offers classic and inventive tacos and a wide range of drinks.
Their interior is white and airy, with photos of exotic places on the walls, basket-shaped lamps, and a large bar in the middle.
Their elegant atmosphere, cocktails, freshly made tacos, and “not tacos” provide memorable experiences for their customers.
Here are some favorites:
- Baja fish: Crispy cod in a fiery tempura crust w/ chipotle slaw
- Esquites: Sweet and savory corn kernels w/ cheesy cotija, creamy + tangy sauce, and a kick of cayenne
- Churros: Crunchy and fluffy dough sticks w/ decadent chocolate + vanilla sauces
Cerveza Jack’s
Head to Cerveza Jack’s for the best chips and guacamole in Nashville. Located right off Broadway in Nashville, Cerveza Jack’s is the ideal spot to toast to your “Good Times and Bad Habits!”
Their menu offers a range of fun choices such as Mexican appetizers, salads, and bowls — everything you need to fuel up and enjoy your Music City adventure!
Catch some of the hottest new musicians in town while sipping one of their signature bucket-sized drinks, cold beer, and local whiskey.
Here are some favorites:
- Chips, Salsa & Guacamole: Crispy chips with house-made salsa roja & creamy guacamole sprinkled with cotija cheese.
- Queso Fundido: Melted pepper jack and Oaxaca cheese with spicy chorizo, fresh pico de gallo, and chips.
- Baja Shrimp: Tangy lime-pepper shrimp on cilantro-lime rice, salsa macha, topped with guacamole, and wrapped in a corn tortilla.
Taco Mamacita
Located in Germantown, Taco Mamacita is one of the most famous and charming Mexican restaurants in Nashville.
Taco Mamacita offers a diverse menu ranging from enchiladas to tacos, ensuring something special to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
They are passionate about creating fresh, tasty, homemade food and drinks in a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. Taco Mamacita goes above and beyond to deliver exceptional customer service to every guest, every time.
Here are some favorites:
- Salsa Sampler: Mango jalapeño, roasted tomato salsa, and salsa verde. Serve with fresh tortilla chips.
- Nacho Mama: Tortilla chips, queso, jack cheese, black beans, corn, tomatoes, lettuce, sour cream, cilantro, and jalapenos.
- Gringo Enchilada: Flour tortilla filled with refried beans, beef brisket, chorizo, queso, escabeche, ranchero sauce, jack cheese, sour cream, queso melt, cilantro, choice of one side.
Nectar Urban Cantina
Nectar is more than a restaurant. You can enjoy delicious Mexican-inspired dishes, craft cocktails, and roasted coffee in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
The menu modifications with the seasons and features fresh, healthy, and creative options for every taste. Whether searching for a quick bite, a meal, or a fun night out, Nectar has something for you.
You can bring your kids to their outdoor space, use our free Wi-Fi, park for free, and join us for our community events throughout the year. Nectar is your place for an unforgettable Mexican culinary adventure. Come and see for yourself!
Here are some favorites:
- Mexican Flag: Tomatillo salsa verde, fire-roasted tomato salsa, poblano queso, corn tortilla chips.
- Tortilla Soup: Chicken, charred corn, guajillo peppers, queso fresco, avocado, cilantro, tortilla strips.
Calacas Mexican Cuisine
At Calacas, they bring you the best of Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. Calacas has located just a short walk from Broadway/Downtown area.
They use local ingredients to create dishes that reflect the diverse flavors of Mexico’s regions.
The restaurant’s bar offers a range of Tequilas and Mezcals that complement our food and philosophy. These spirits are the base of their cocktails, crafted with skill and passion.
Here are some favorites:
- Pork Pibil Tamale:Homemade masa, pico de Gallo, mole sauce, crema fresca.
- Empanadas Oaxaca: Pickled onion, chicken, jalapeño, queso fresco, chipotle crema.
Blanco Cocina + Cantina
Blanco offers a fresh twist on Sonoran-style Mexican cuisine that will satisfy your every craving.
Its laid-back party atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to relax and sip the day away while enjoying its crave-worthy dishes like fajitas and the iconic chimichangas.
Situated near Broadway, Blanco’s boasts a big window that opens on lovely weather days, providing a picturesque view of the bustling street and the Bridgestone Arena.
Whether you’re a visitor or a local, a sit-down meal at Blanco’s is a must. With a reservation, getting seated is quick and easy, and the attentive service ensures a pleasant dining experience.
Here are some favorites:
- Fajitas: Served with caramelized peppers and onions, elote, guacamole, and queso blanco. Selection of black or charro beans.
- Spicy Mango Ceviche: Mahi, shrimp, pico de Gallo, and avocado.
- Crunchy Taco Salad: Black beans, ground beef, tomato, avocado, cheddar cheese, roasted corn, pasilla ranch dressing.
El Jaliciense
Located at 3225 Gallatin Pike in Nashville, El Jaliciense is a hidden gem that offers an exceptional dining experience. This Mexican restaurant stands out for its authentic tacos, affordable prices, and friendly service.
El Jaliciense is a top choice for vegan Mexican food lovers in Nashville. You’ll find delicious tacos made with authentic ingredients and some drinks to pair them with.
Here are some favorites:
- Pollo Ranchero: Grilled chicken cooked with fresh tomatoes, onions, and jalapenos and served with tortillas, rice, and beans.
- Botanazo: Guacamole, sour cream, Pico de Gallo, cheese dip, and cheese quesadilla.
- Veggie Burrito: A big flour tortilla stuffed with beans, rice, onions, and grilled bell peppers. It is topped with lettuce, sour cream, avocado, and tomatoes.
Cinco De Mayo
Since 2000, Cinco de Mayo has been bringing the flavors of Mexico to the Middle Tennessee area. You can discover them at several locations in Nashville.
Cinco De Mayo prides itself on authenticity, fresh ingredients, atmosphere, and visitor satisfaction. And while you’re here, remember to try the Queso Fundido and a refreshing frozen margarita!
Here are some favorites:
- Fajita Nachos Supreme: Enjoy a full fajita on your nachos! Choose between Angus steak or grilled chicken tenderloins.
- Burrito Dinner: Two burritos, filled with chicken or beef, served with rice and beans.
- Carnitas: Marinated pork served with beans, rice, tortillas, and salad.
Superica
Superica is a Mexican restaurant in The Gulch, a charming neighborhood located south of downtown Nashville.
The restaurant boasts a lovely interior and patio area, and the team provides attentive customer service.
The food is fantastic, and make sure to catch the Mexican beer and hot coffee on their drink menu.
Superica offers a private dining room that can accommodate up to 30 guests. The restaurant’s team dedicates customers to creating a unique celebration in their vibrant space.
Here are some favorites:
- Tacos Al Carbon: A trio of succulent meats, with the steak being the show’s star.
- Queso Fundido: a cheesy delight with mushrooms and bell peppers. Enjoy it with warm and homemade flour tortillas. A must-try!
FAQs
What are the best Mexican restaurants in Nashville?
Our top pick-up Nashville Mexican restaurants are Saint Anejo, Mas Tacos Por Favor, Rosepepper Cantina, Bakersfield, Narda, and bartaco.
What is the average price range for a meal at a Mexican restaurant in Nashville?
The price range for a meal at a Mexican restaurant in Nashville can vary depending on the establishment and the dishes you choose.
On average, you can spend between $10 and $25 per person for a meal, excluding beverages and gratuity.
Do Mexican restaurants in Nashville offer takeout or delivery services?
Many Mexican restaurants in Nashville offer takeout and delivery services. You can check their websites or call the restaurant for options.
Additionally, you can use popular food delivery apps like Uber Eats, Grubhub, and DoorDash to find Mexican restaurants that deliver in your area.
Can I make reservations at these Mexican restaurants in Nashville?
Some Mexican restaurants in Nashville accept reservations, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s best to check the restaurant’s website or call them directly to inquire about their reservation policy.
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.
