Of all of the things Minnesota is known for, Mexican food certainly is not one of them. But that doesn't mean we Minnesotans don't love it. We may be about as north of the border as you can get, but Minnesotans still crave delicious Mexican food. Luckily, we do have quite a few options throughout the state. In the Twin Cities and beyond, these 11 Mexican restaurants in Minnesota will definitely add some spice to your life.
1. Tavial Mexican Grill - St. Paul
Tavial is a family-operated spot that opened in 2014. Originally from Mexico, the owners use family-taught methods of preparing fresh, delicious ingredients. It shows in just how busy this place often gets. The portions are plentiful, the meat is flavorful, and the service is fast. What more do you need? Address: 1199 7th Street West, St. Paul.
2. El Burrito Mercado - St. Paul
This restaurant has been around since 1979, so they know a thing or two about serving great Mexican food. With the addition of a unique marketplace, you can even pick up some ingredients for home cooking. Address: 175 Cesar Chavez Street, St. Paul.
3. Homi - St. Paul
Homi may not look like much from the outside, but this little St. Paul restaurant serves up some delicious food. The owners use fresh ingredients to make both the dishes you'd expect at a Mexican restaurant and some more unique dishes as well. Next time you're driving down University Avenue in St. Paul, stop in for a quick bite! Address: 864 University Avenue West, St. Paul.
4. Bravo Burritos - St. Cloud
In a town with several popular Mexican options, Bravo Burritos sticks out. The restaurant bills its food as some of the healthiest Mexican cuisine in Minnesota. In fact, the restaurant was recognized for having the best vegetarian food in Central Minnesota a few years back. And if that doesn't sway you, maybe the casual atmosphere and plentiful, fresh ingredients will do the trick. Address: 68 33rd Avenue South, St. Cloud.
5. Catrinas - Oakdale and St. Anthony
You may not think Oakdale would have such a great Mexican restaurant, but the rave reviews this place receives may make you change your mind. With everything made in-house using fresh ingredients, you'll keep coming back. Visit either the Oakdale or the St. Anthony location. Addresses: 1091 Geneva Avenue North, Oakdale; 2510 Kenzie Terrace, St Anthony.
6. Cha Chis - Winona
This little spot in Winona may not be as well-known as some of the others, but those in the know cannot stop raving about this restaurant. As the most highly rated Mexican restaurant in Winona according to Yelp reviewers, it's definitely worth a trip next time you're in southern Minnesota. Better yet, you can even stop if you're just passing through - Cha Chis is available for takeout. Address: 155 East 3rd Street, Winona.
7. Taqueria Los Ocampo -Minneapolis and St. Paul
Taqueria Los Ocampo claims to be the most authentic Mexican restaurant in Minnesota, and they may just be right. In each of its four locations, Taqueria Los Ocampo serves up mouth-watering Mexican food in huge serving sizes. Weekly specials bring even more value to the already reasonable menus. Addresses: 417 East Lake Street, Minneapolis; Global Market, 920 East Lake Street, Minneapolis; 809 East Lake Street, Minneapolis; 895 Arcade Street, St. Paul.
8. La Poblana - Rochester
Located in the back of a Mexican grocery store, La Poblana may be Rochester's best kept secret. But don't let its humble location fool you - La Poblana packs amazing flavor into every single thing on its menu. Try out a taco platter - or one of the rotating daily specials - to taste what just may be the best Mexican food you'll find in southern Minnesota. Address: 1131 Civic Center Drive Northwest, Rochester.
9. Las Teresitas - Minneapolis
Hailed by many as the best Mexican restaurant in all of Minnesota, we would be remiss to leave out this classic Minneapolis eatery. Serving up fresh ingredients carefully cooked into your south-of-the-border cravings, Las Teresitas lives up to its reputation as a local favorite. Address: 5748 34th Avenue South, Minneapolis.
10. El Taco Riendo - Minneapolis
In Northeast Minneapolis, this Mexican restaurant creates quite a buzz when it opens its doors each day. Often noted as serving some of the best tacos in Minnesota, it's a definite must-eat for anyone who craves Mexican food. After one taste of an El Taco Riendo taco, you'll be swearing off fast food tacos for good. Address: 2412 Central Avenue Northeast.
11. Azteca's Mexican Grill - Duluth
Duluth may be almost as far north as you can get, but that doesn't mean there aren't any great Mexican restaurants there. Aztecas Mexican Grill is by far the most well-reviewed Mexican place on Yelp, making it a go-to restaurant for anyone in the area who has a hankering for Mexican food. Address: 2224 Mountain Shadow Drive, Duluth.
Do you have any other favorites? Let us know in the comments. If you're interested in more must-visit restaurants, check out this list of 9 restaurants in Minnesota to visit before you die.
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