The Best Mexican Restaurants in Calgary, Alberta

Those looking to sate their spice cravings are well catered for in Calgary
Those looking to sate their spice cravings are well catered for in Calgary | © Henryk Sadura / Alamy Stock Photo
Kathryn Beeson

We’ve asked our local insiders to share their favorite Calgary spice spots, for those times when nothing but beans, barbecued meats, cheese and chilies will do. Indulge your craving for your favorite taco combos, or take a look at what other Mexican cuisine Calgary has to offer and try something new.

1. Tu Tierra Restaurant

Restaurant, Mexican

Tucked just off Macleod Trail, Tu Tierra’s scintillating menu of authentic Mexican favorites is one of Calgary’s best-kept secrets. You’ll find all your go-to Mexican classics here, with tacos, enchiladas, burritos, tostadas and quesadillas aplenty, alongside less-widespread (but equally mouthwatering) dishes. There is also a great range of vegetarian dishes, plus a list of oh-so-tempting margarita variations – try the Corona-based beergarita for something a little different. Trust us, it works. Recommended by local insider Yamila Godoy

2. La Casa Latina

Restaurant, Mexican

Explore both Mexican-inspired dishes and food from the rest of South America at La Casa Latina, which prides itself in celebrating all things Latino. Come for your taco or fajita fix, or perhaps try something a little different – the El Salvadoran and Columbian fish meals might become your new favorite. It’s worth keeping an eye out for special events too; La Casa Latina hosts all-day parties on South American independence days, and also participates in the Festival Latino each summer. Recommended by local insider Yamila Godoy

3. Native Tongues Taqueria

Restaurant, Mexican

Native Tongues is all about serving up fresh, hot and unbelievably delicious Mexican market and street food. As a taqueria, there is, of course, a big emphasis on tacos, which are served on gorgeous warm corn tortillas with plenty of salsa verde and salsa roja. With both braised meat and charcoal grill options available, plus a separate tostada (toasted tortilla taco) menu, your only difficulty here will be choosing which ones you should go for. Once you’ve decided, sit back and watch the chefs work their magic while sipping on a cocktail, catching up with friends or impressing your date with your exciting restaurant choice. Recommended by local insider Stuart Forster

4. The Moose and Poncho

Restaurant, Mexican

The Moose and Poncho certainly takes the prize for Calgary’s best-named Mexican restaurant. A newcomer for 2020, its hearty but reasonably priced portions of tacos, deep fried taco dorados and quesadillas live up to the hype it has generated since opening. It makes its chorizo verde, chicharrónes (fried pork rinds) and suadero (thinly sliced beed) in house to maximize on flavors. The menu is seasonal (its hearty soups will see you through Calgary’s famously chilly winters). Check its Facebook page for information about menu updates and limited-time specials. Recommended by local insider Stuart Forster

5. Tres Marias Food Market

Restaurant, Mexican

Long-established local favorite Tres Marias has been providing Calgary with a delicious menu of Mexican food for over 15 years. Once you experience its meals, all sourced from fresh, local ingredients, made with artisan tortillas wraps and garnished with a range of authentic salsas and dips, it’s easy to see why it’s been around so long. Food is available to go or as a dine-in option, and there is a small selection of groceries available that you should definitely take a look at if you’re trying to up your home-cooked tacos game. Recommended by local insider Coco Hiu Tung Yuen

6. Costa Vida

Restaurant, Mexican

If you find yourself craving a quick-but-tasty spice hit, head to Costa Vida. Your best chain Mexican option in the city, friendly service greets you as you walk in, and staff are happy to suggest menu favorites or new things to try. You can ask to try out the different sauces on offer prior to ordering to establish how spicy you can take it. Most menu items are highly customizable, so you can order your favorite Mexican dishes just how you like them at a very reasonable price. Recommended by local insider Coco Hiu Tung Yuen

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