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The Best Mexican Restaurants in Rio De Janeiro

Mexican burrito
Mexican burrito | © adoproducciones/Pixabay

The international cuisine scene is experiencing a boom in Rio de Janeiro, as venues are increasingly influenced by growing numbers of immigrants and foreign visitors. Finding Mexican dishes in Rio is relatively easy and the menus range from authentic dishes to a more Tex-Mex style. Here are some of the best Mexican restaurants in Rio de Janeiro.

Azteka

Restaurant, Mexican

organic food Rio de Janeiro
© Jorge Andrade / WikiCommons

Located in the heart of Ipanema, on the neighbourhood’s main street, the tiny Azteka is easy to pass by, as it’s surrounded by commercial galleries and large shops. Yet the tables and chairs set up outside in the evening will alert you of its presence, and despite its small size, it’s a restaurant that packs in plenty of authentic Mexican food, from burritos bursting with fillings to tacos and generously portioned nachos. There are often happy hours on weekdays, including two-for-one margaritas.

Rota 66

Restaurant, Mexican

Decked out in typical Route 66 decor, with travel imagery on the walls and a casual set-up of wooden tables and chairs, Rota 66 is a classic Tex-Mex eatery. There are two branches located in the south zone of the city – one in Copacabana and one in Ipanema – and both places are ideal post-beach pitstops. The nachos are served as a starter, yet are generous enough for two or three people, and can be washed down with one of the many cocktails (lots of them tequila-based, of course) or chilled beers on the menu.

Que Quieres?

Restaurant, Mexican

This small yet comfortable eatery is based in Ipanema and offers both an eat-in option and a takeaway service. The food is authentic Mexican cuisine served in a contemporary style; think bowls edged with nachos and filled with seasoned meat and freshly made guacamole, salsa, and sour cream. The burritos here are one of the most popular items on the menu and come bursting with fillings and tightly wrapped for an easy, on-the-go snack.

Guacamole Jardim Botanico

Restaurant, Mexican

Nachos
© Pixabay

Set in the upscale neighbourhood of Jardim Botanico, Guacamole blends the sophistication of the surrounding area with a casual flair to create a colourful, fun restaurant that serves typical Tex-Mex cuisine. The festive ambiance makes it ideal for a birthday or other celebratory occasion, further enhanced with the tequila servers whose job it is to tempt you into a cheeky tequila shot. Live music sets the scene for a memorable night out with dinner and drinks.

Puebla Cafe

Diner, Mexican

Set within the historical surroundings of Humaita, Puebla Cafe is a charming Mexican eatery that offers fresh, homemade options such as tortillas and combo platters that let you try a little bit of everything. Of course, there is a good tequila selection available too. Humaita is a lively region of Rio next to Botafogo with lively nightlife. Head to Puebla Cafe to eat and drink before finishing the night in any of the other nearby late-night bars.

Tacos & Wraps

Restaurant, Mexican, American

A laid-back venue in lively Botafogo, Tacos & Wraps has a selection of typical Tex-Mex options and American-style wraps. The food comes in generous portions, and this is an ideal place to sit down and enjoy the hustle and bustle of Botafogo’s streets with a chilled beer or two. There are also vegan-friendly options on the menu.

La Calaca

Restaurant, Mexican

Its location in Barra da Tijuca means that La Calaca is away from the usual tourist hotspots of Copacabana and Ipanema, yet it’s worth the trip. The modern restaurant has an animated vibe, providing a casual yet vibrant place to enjoy good Mexican food accompanied with strong yet smooth tequila-based cocktails. The food is the usual Mexican cuisine, served with contemporary flair.

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About the author

Sarah is a British freelance journalist and writer based in Rio de Janeiro. Her favourite travel experiences so far include swimming with whale sharks in Mexico, trekking through Rio's urban forest and enjoying the city life in Madrid. Find her on Instagram @sbgrio

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