11 Best Mexican Restaurants in Denver

mexican dish selection at denver mexican restaurants

Denver’s vibrant culinary scene offers a delectable journey into the heart of Mexico through its diverse array of Mexican restaurants. Nestled amidst the Rockies, these dining establishments provide a unique opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of Mexican cuisine without leaving the Mile-High City. From street food stalls serving mouthwatering tacos to upscale eateries offering contemporary twists on traditional dishes, Denver’s Mexican restaurants cater to every palate. Whether you’re a fan of smoky, slow-cooked barbacoa, zesty and tangy ceviche, or the comforting warmth of homemade tamales, these establishments embrace the authentic flavors and aromas of Mexico. But it’s not just about the food; it’s an immersive cultural experience. The warm hospitality, lively atmospheres, and colorful decor transport diners to the heart of Mexico, making every visit a celebration of Mexican heritage and culinary artistry. Join us on a journey through this article, where fiesta meets foodie heaven.

Adelitas Cocina Y Cantina

1294 S Broadway, Denver, CO 80210
303-778-1294
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Try Michoacán cuisine at this western Mexican place on Broadway and E Louisiana Ave. Adelitas Cocina Y Cantina is in South Denver near the South Platte River, and it’s the perfect place to go for brunch or cocktails. The vibe is festive, and it’s a fun location for parties and big groups. Order tacos a la carte on Taco Tuesday, or enjoy special deals for Happy Hour. I like the corn tortilla enchiladas, which you can fill with chicken, cheese, carnitas, or carne asada. The possibilities are endless with their custom tamales, and you can choose your favorite flavors. If you’re vegetarian, try the veggie bowl with guacamole.

Chili Verde

2311 Federal Blvd, Denver, CO 80211
720-287-2296
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Chili Verde is a cozy restaurant near Jefferson Park. It’s family-owned and uses traditional recipes from Mexico, and it’s famous for authentic sauces and Mexican hot chocolate. The Food Network named Chile Verde’s choriqueso the best dip in Colorado, and it’s a cheesy sauce you won’t want to miss. Try it with house chips or on top of enchiladas. The chicken sandwich is one of my favorite handheld meals, and it comes drenched in green sauce and melted cheese. For dessert, you have to try the Mexican caramel crepes. The crepes are decadent with walnuts, strawberries, bananas, and ice cream.

La Loma

1801 Broadway, Denver, CO 80202
303-433-8300
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Head to the Central Business District for margaritas and traditional Mexican cuisine. La Loma boasts barrel-aged tequila, family recipes, and grilled dishes. It’s on 18th St and N Broadway near the American Museum of Western Art, right in the heart of Denver. The vibe is charming and welcoming, and you’ll feel at home in the friendly space. I like the fajita chicken nachos, which are great to share with your table. The chefs marinate the chicken to perfection and add beans, sour cream, and guacamole. Don’t forget to sample a house-ground burger, a grilled specialty with flour tortillas and green sauce.

Machete Tequila + Tacos

Multiple locations
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Order a jar of margaritas to take home, or dine on-site at this trendy Mexican restaurant. Machete Tequila and Tacos has several locations, including Lodo, Congress Park, and Cherry Creek. The cuisine centers around tacos, but you can also order enchiladas or quesadillas. I recommend the Barbacoa tacos paired with a Lucky One margarita with a splash of lime. The lobster enchiladas are a unique choice that will add a twist to your evening, so try ordering them with creamy white sauce. If you have any vegetarians in your group, I recommend the baked jackfruit with mushrooms, potatoes, and avocado.

Tacos Tequila Whiskey

Multiple locations
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Tacos Tequila Whiskey serves Mexican street food with a contemporary twist, and the restaurant gives a fresh interpretation of classic dishes like street tacos, sliders, and churros. The modern eatery has multiple locations in Denver, including the City Park and West Highland neighborhoods. It’s a taqueria with an extensive drinks menu and one of the trendiest Mexican restaurants in the city. I recommend starting with Queso Fundido al Tequila, a tequila-infused cheese dip. Mix and match a plate of street tacos, and choose from tacos like agave fried chicken, spicy tuna, and walnut chorizo. Pair them with a signature margarita.

El Taco de México

714 Santa Fe Dr, Denver, CO 80204
303-623-3926
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Experience a classic, old-school atmosphere at El Taco de México in Lincoln Park. It’s on Santa Fe Dr and W 7th Ave, near the Museo de las Americas, and the cuisine follows traditional Mexico City recipes. El Taco de México has been a Denver staple since 1985, and the locals love it. I recommend the marinated pork burrito, paired with a chorizo torta or tamales with onions and cilantro. Try a taco plate with three pork tripe tacos and a side of beans and rice, or order from the all-day breakfast menu and enjoy the huevos rancheros, a Mexico City classic.

Comal Heritage Food Incubator

3455 Ringsby Ct #105, Denver, CO 80216
720-500-3455
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You can feel good about where your dollars go at Comal Denver, a Mexican restaurant in the River North Art District. Comal Denver supports the Denver community and helps immigrants and refugee women find entrepreneurial success. It’s right on the riverfront and has a fantastic patio for casual dining. I love to order the locally-sourced, fresh meals at Comal Denver. My favorite is the Calabacitas Plate, which has fresh vegetables, queso, and crema. Enjoy sides of homemade corn tortillas, rice, and beans. For Postre or Mexican dessert, you can order Tres Leches Cake de Coco, a milk cake with chocolate.

Garibaldi Mexican Bistro

3298 S Broadway B, Englewood, CO 80113
303-781-0812
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Head to Englewood and visit Garibaldi, a bistro-style restaurant with Mexico City cuisine. It’s on Broadway and E Floyd Ave, near the iconic Gothic Theatre. Garibaldi has a relaxed vibe and creative dishes, and the food often has hints of Aztec cuisine. It’s a great place to kick back and relax with a drink and ample servings of homestyle Mexican food. I like to customize my favorite enchiladas with chicken or steak and mild green sauce, and I also like a side of rice and beans. The plate also has generous quantities of fresh toppings like queso and sour cream.

La Calle Taqueria Y Carnitas

1565 W Alameda Ave, Denver, CO 80223
720-583-6586
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La Calle Taqueria is a taco eatery with old-school vibes. It’s in the Valverde district, and the restaurant specializes in authentic Mexican street food, especially barbacoa and carnitas. Stop by on Taco Tuesday for deals on street tacos, or get delivery to other parts of Denver. The Cochinita Pibil plate is my favorite, and you can stack as many street tacos as you want. The chef slow-cooks the meat to perfection and stuffs the tacos with marinated pork. Sip a Mexican Horchata with your meal, a rice drink with cinnamon flavors. Or, try a fresh hibiscus or melon tea with lemon.

Los Carboncitos

Multiple locations
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Los Carboncitos is a casual Mexican restaurant with two locations in Denver. It’s famous for housemade salsas and creative cocktails, and it’s perfect if you want to explore unique and innovative Mexican dishes. The Highland location is by Raza Park, and the Villa Park location is off Sheridan Blvd. Sample the ancient cuisine of Mexico and try the Aztec-style soup with sour cream and avocado. I like the Huarache de Pollo con Chorizo, which comes with Mexican sausage. Kids will love the quesadillas, and older members of your group can try the Prickly Pear or the El Charro Negro tequila with coke.

SOL Mexican Cocina

200 Columbine St Unit 110, Denver, CO 80206
303-953-2208
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SOL Mexican Cocina, on Columbine St and E 2nd Ave, is a stylish restaurant in Cherry Creek. It’s right across from the Denver Country Club and has beautiful city views. Visit for the upscale vibe, and enjoy the chic decor and trendy plates. Try everything from gourmet tacos to Mexican seafood. I recommend the Spanish octopus, a grilled dish with potatoes and chorizo. The short ribs with blue corn are fantastic, and the popcorn cauliflower tacos are also a great choice. Don’t forget dessert! Try the Seven Deadly Sins pudding, a decadent dish with vanilla beans, pecans, and chocolate cookies.