The Best Mexican Restaurants in Washington, D.C.

One of the newest restaurants on this list, La Puerta Verde, located in the booming Ivy City neighborhood, has already made quite a name for itself. Freshly made tortillas make for incredible tacos, but their appetizers and main course plates are all as enticing. The elote (street corn) is a favorite, as is the “Esquites con Camarones”—shrimp on grilled bread topped with corn and tequila butter. Meat lovers should get the “Carne Arrachera”—grilled beef skirt steak, chorizo, cactus paddle, tomatillo, spring onions, queso fresco, and jalapeño. Their bar is no joke either; try the “Mezgroni,” a creative take on the Negroni, made with mezcal instead.

At Taqueria Habanero, you can get delicious, authentic Mexican food in a somewhat no-frills atmosphere. Feast on the fish tacos, the chicken enchiladas, and a Michelada—you’ll feel as though you’re in Mexico. It’s a popular place, so there might be a wait; however, it’s worth it.

The Taqueria Los Compadres is a family-owned spot that is a bit of a secret (so far)—but not for long. Their homemade and home-style Mexican food is comfort at its best. From squash blossom and huitlacoche tacos to sopes, tamales, and enchiladas, there is something for everyone. The fresh salsas and accompaniments are just as delicious.

Another new addition to the city’s Mexican food scene is Mezcalero, which is extremely popular for its street tacos, huaraches, tortas, and quesadillas. Their extensive menu not only has favorites that you will recognize, but it also has a lot of Mexican specialties not commonly found in other restaurants.

A favorite stop, complete with a fantastic happy hour, El Chucho’s elote itself makes it worth a stop, but don’t miss trying out their drinks or a torta on their rooftop patio space. It makes for a great spot to wind down at the end of a summer day.

Taking a family-style approach, but crafted by a professional chef, the food at El Sol is some of the freshest and most authentic Mexican food around. Diners rave about this restaurant’s queso fundido, handmade tortillas and tacos, and a fantastic three-course brunch. Don’t let the location and small space fool you.

On the fancier side of Mexican restaurants in D.C., celebrity chef Jose Andres’ Oyamel features an array of traditional Mexican small plates that will transport your taste buds to Mexico. The salt air-topped margarita and tableside guacamole make for a great start, and the selection of tacos to follow continues the feast. It’s a great date night option.