33 Best Mexican Restaurants in Charleston

Restaurantji's Charleston Mexican restaurant picks are here. Enjoy the city's top Chips and Salsa, Nachos, Al Pastor, and other dishes.

Rancho Lewis Mexican • $$
1503 King St, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Traditional Frozen Margarita
Beef Back Ribs Half the Cow
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Old Fashioned Tacos
Guacamole and Chips
Green Chile Pozole
Christmas Burrito
Smothered Burrito
Nachos Especiales
So Far so Bueno

“Finally, an authentic West Texas [El Paso] Mexican restaurant in Charleston, SC. The food was delicious with layers of seasoning and flavors. Authentic Hatch Chilis!! Everything was wonderful. Not your Daddy's Mexican restaurant.Update 4.16.2024: unfortunately the food quality has decreased since Patty left Rancho Lewis. Our last few visits have seen a significant slip in food quality - stale tortillas, room temp food, un-melted cheese in Chilis Rellenos, .... the food just misses the mark. Some items are still excellent, but there are disappointments also in execution.“

4.4 Superb164 Reviews
El Molino Supermarket Mexican • $$
1610 Sam Rittenberg Blvd Suite 301, Charleston

“We go for taco box Tuesdays (you can get them any other day but they're on special for taco Tuesdays) and are never disappointed. Definitely the most consistent place for tacos we have found. We were hesitant to try their birria because you get such a great deal with the taco box but their birria con queso taco trio are stuffed and much bigger than their "street taco" sized tacos in the box. Oh and super tasty.Fresh salsa has also been great, and I've treated myself to a horchata a couple of times which has been really good too.Also, they aren't super convenient for me location-wise, but when I can't find queso fresco (which is most of the time) I know they will have it and multiple brands to choose from.“

4.7 Superb95 Reviews

3
Maya

Maya Mexican • $$
479B King St, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Flourless Chocolate Cake
Chips and Guacamole
Brussels Sprouts
Brisket Tacos
Skillet Queso
Chicken Tacos
Black Beans
Tuna Tostada
Fish Tacos
Churros

“This place is awesome! The hostess was friendly and we couldn’t have had a better waiter than Tyler. We started with the Dip Trio, which the four of us thoroughly enjoyed. All of us were happy with the taste and quantity of our food. I had the Soft-shell Crab, which was very unique for a Mexican dish, but was well executed! My wife and kids enjoyed their food as well. We will definitely go back here again.“

4.3 Superb319 Reviews
Matador Charleston Mexican • $$
235 Meeting St, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Mango-Pineapple Shrimp Salad
Familia Street Tacos for
Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Chile Rellenos
Blackberry Habanero
Chicken Fajitas
Black Bean Dip
Steak Nachos
Shrimp Tacos
Quesabirria

“Bar hopped a few places while visiting Charleston. Overall between the food and drinks everything was better than most of the places. Stayed in town for the week and ended up returning multiple times over the past week. Sebastian and the rest of the Bar staff is great and very friendly too! Great location in downtown Charleston, close to everything. Would definitely return next time in town!“

4.3 Superb118 Reviews
Los Reyes Mexican Restaurant Mexican • $$
1119 Wappoo Rd Unit Q, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Shrimp Chicken Steak Fajitas
Fried Beef Chimichanga
Michelada Con Camarones
Camarones a La Diabla
Enchilada Supreme
Fried Ice Cream
Chicken Fajitas
Chips and Salsa
Burrito El Rey
Pollo Jalisco

“Was passing through the area. Wanted to have Mexican food. Wife and I liked how this looks from the street. So happy we stopped and went inside. Very friendly staff, clean inside and out. Nice bar area with great selection, they also had an outdoor tables. Service was outstanding. The moment they saw the chips or the salsa was half way, they refilled with fresh ones. Food selection was great. We picked couple of dishes and both were great. Fresh and flavorful. Mid lunch we saw they also have a good size buffet option.Will eat here again when back in the area.“

4.6 Superb89 Reviews
Santi’s Restaurante Mexicano Mexican • $$
1302 Meeting St, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Enchiladas Potosinas 2
Camarones À la Diabla
Enchiladas Verdes 2
Mama's Specialty
House Quesadilla
Chips and Salsa
Burrito Grande
Street Tacos
Chimichanga
Pastor Taco

“Food specialties well prepared extremely clean everythingParking: It has a fairly large free parking area.Kid-friendliness: It's normal there are hours because it closes at 10 at night I always go for El Dia I don't see anything out of place everything is fineWheelchair accessibility: The room is spacious apart from the room that is in the hall, there is a city room that is more reserved. I always like that place. The food prices are very good.“

4.3 Superb74 Reviews
YoBo Cantina Fresca Mexican • $
10 Windermere Blvd, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Carnitas Quesadilla
Enchilada Burrito
Chips and Queso
Chips - Salsa
Tortilla Soup
Shrimp Tacos
Black Beans
MO Burrito
Fish Tacos
Guacamole

“The restaurant staff did a great job making accommodations for me and my wheelchair. Despite being busy, the bartender came around and helped me clean food off my chair and arm after one of my fits. Thanks to Abbi for a great first Yobo Cantina experience.Wheelchair accessibility: The space has enough flexibility to accomodate wheelchairs“

4.4 Superb53 Reviews
Tacos El Pariente Mexican • $
2398 Clements Ferry Rd, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Street Tacos De Carne Asada
Coctel De Camaron
Al Pastor Burrito
Torta Cubana
Quesadillas
Chicharron
Mr Nachos
Burritos
Carnitas
Bistek

“This spot is a fantastic mom and pop Mexian food truck. You can tell they put some love into their food and it shows because I had one of the best torta sandwiches ever! Definitely a must if you're around Daniel's Island and you want something authentic.“

4.7 Superb41 Reviews
Rio Chico West Ashley Mexican • $$
1975 Magwood Dr STE. B, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Quesadilla with Chicken and Shrimp
Veggie Burrito and Cheese
Chicken Fajita Quesadilla
Cheese Steak Burritos
Burrito Bean and Rice
Tacos De Pescado mmmm
Fajitas Con Mariscos
Rio Grande Fajitas
Arroz Con Mariscos
Bistec Con Mariscos

“Food is great, service is fast and professional, clean and nice atmosphere.Parking: It's in a Super Marker strip mall, so when busy you have to park a little further but it's not far, sometimes getting right in front is hard to do on weekends and holidays“

4.5 Superb58 Reviews
California Tortilla Mexican • $
1405 Folly Rd, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Southwest Mesquite Chicken Salad
Create Your Own Burrito or Bowl
Blackened Chicken
Side of Sour Cream
Classic Quesadilla
Chips & Queso
Blackened Fish
Steak Burrito
Rice & Beans
Cubano Bowl

“I love this place! I have been coming since they opened. Such wonderful tasting food. And always made fresh. The staff are courteous and the restaurant is always clean. You should definitely give it a chance. You won't regret it, I promise!“

4.4 Superb74 Reviews
Ru Ru's Tacos & Tequila Mexican • $$
159 E Bay St, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Quesadilla with Black Beans and Corn
Kid's Quesadilla
It Was the Dukes
Long Duck Dong
Chicken Fajita
Steak Burrito
Three Amigos
Shrimp Tacos
Burrito Bar
Cheese Dip

“This place was extremely fun and i would of never expected it they had one of the best margaritas ive ever had and seem to be very tequila centric but the other cocktails i tried were all great as well but the true stand out was just the names of the drinks i mean where else do you get a drink called the divorce “

4 Good123 Reviews
Rio Chico Mexican • $
520 Folly Rd, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Rice Refried Beans Sour Cream Guacamole Pico De Gallo
Grilled Chicken Fajitas Grilled Steak Fajitas
Chicken and Shrimp Fajita
Enchilada Rice and Beans
Cheese Steak Burritos
Deep Fried Ice Cream
Vegetarian Fajitas
Grilled Taco Salad
Rio Chico Salad
Fajita Burrito

“I was a Rio Chico aficianado who was romanced away by the latest Mexican Bar, but I have come back home. Why?- neverending chips and salsa- giganto draft beers and margaritas- warm platesAs a 3rd generation immigrant and CA native I am dangerously demanding with portions and presentation ('yes, but, what would Grandma order?'). Beware the portions - they are giant. I heartily recommend fajitas, tamales y tacos. Accept that you will have extras for lunch tomorrow and order the large Dos Equis on draft or the Medium Margaritas (large only if someone else is driving). Come for your BDay, but don't ask the staff to sing for you - that is for visitors; as a local, order a round of lemon drops and the fajitas to share.“

4.4 Superb57 Reviews
The Lucky Luchador Bar • $$
35 Hanover St, Charleston

“This place is a true gem. It's everything you want from a neighborhood bar including a great staff, good drinks and awesome food options. The local community that Lucky Luchador serves is warm and welcoming--as an out of towner I felt completely embraced by them. I wish I had a great spot like this near where I live, and can't say enough nice things about it. If you're lucky enough to live in Charleston, you won't regret visiting Lucky Luchador.“

4.9 Superb22 Reviews
Cachitas Kitchen Mexican • $$
792 Folly Rd, Charleston

“I got a Cachitaco, a shrimp taco, and a fish taco. The fish and shrimp tacos were both on a double stacked corn tortilla. I know a lot of places that do this, but I'm just not a fan. The stuff inside was very good though. The cachitaco was AWESOME! 5/5, would eat again. They dip a flour tortilla in the rendered fat from the meat, then char it before filling it up with meat and cheese.“

4.7 Superb28 Reviews
Señor Tequila Mexican • $
1836 Ashley River Rd Ste A, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Three Tacos Al Senor Steak and Sausage with a Banana Margarita
Fajitas Texanas Mixtas Estuvo Bueno
Senor Tequila Fajita Nachos
Salsa Guacamole and Queso
Tequila’S Lite Salad
Camarones Al Chipotle
Chicken Quesadilla
Chicken Fajitas
Fajitas for Two
Lunch Special

“Update. an amazing place! 3/9/24Luv luv this location everything is always fantastic! But definitely not the Dorchester rd location they constantly mess up our takeout order. Repeatedly let the know but no changes. West Ashley location gets it all right every time and great atmosphere for dine in!!!!“

4.2 Good81 Reviews
El PinchoTaco Mexican • $
616 Meeting St ste b, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Chips and Salsa
Any 4 Tacos
Al Pastor
Asada

“I went for lunch with a buddy. I got two carnitas tacos with rice and beans which is their lunch special. Everything was great the meat was very flavorful. My friend got the ramen and I tried some and it was very close to being the best ramen I’ve ever had. I will definitely be back and I will definitely get the ramen.“

4.3 Superb57 Reviews
Taco Kitchen Mexican • $
2065 Savannah Hwy, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Acapulco Burrito Bigest
Tacos Rice and Beans
Potato and Egg Taco
Fancy Fish Taco
Clasico Burrito
Chips and Queso
Flautas Plate
Jumbo Burrito
Street Tacos
Cheese Sauce

“The food was amazing. The staff was very nice, though communication was sometimes difficult. There was no wait when we came in. We got our food quickly. The tables were clean. This place is a hole in the wall with good food and kind people.“

4.2 Good74 Reviews
Bodega Todo Mexican • $
218 President St, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich
Bacon Cheeseburger
Taco Box Combo
French Fries

“Really glad I don’t own a restaurant in this city, some of these reviews are so hyper-critical and nitpicky.This place is awesome. As someone who is GF/DF, I can safely eat some of my favorite foods that are typically difficult to find allergen friendly.Have been numerous times, never disappoints. Staff are friendly, music is spot on, and the seating is charming.One of the staff even gave us a homemade, complimentary salsa on our way out.Will continue to go back and recommend this to my fellow locals who support local.“

4.2 Good69 Reviews
Taco Boy Charleston Mexican • $
217 Huger St, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Carne Asada Taco Tempura Avocado Taco Fried Chicken Taco
Tres Leches Cake Slice
Tacos and Street Corn
Classic Guacamole Mkt
Mexican Street Corn
Chicken Quesadilla
Nachos with Chicken
Carne Asada Tacos
Grilled Chicken
Corn on the Cob

“My wife’s and my favorite restaurant. The guacamole is the best we’ve ever had. The Baja Tacos were insane. And the courtyard, whether intended this way or not, was a safe place for our kids to play while we enjoyed ourselves (for once at a sit down restaurant).Makes me want to move back to Charleston.Kid-friendliness: We sat outside where there were some games like cornhole. More kids showed up, and they all played in the courtyard. It was nice to enjoy ourselves and know our kids are safe. They offer a kids menu as well.“

3.9 Good114 Reviews

20
MESU

MESU Mexican • $$
570 King St, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Barbacoa Braised Beef Taco
Lobster Rangoon Roll
Baja Fish Taco
Chips & Queso
Rainbow Roll
Tsunami Roll
Quesadilla
Tiger Roll
Taco Salad
Mesu Roll

“Delicious sushi and queso and chips! The chips had seasoning salt which made it so yummy! ? We got the Tusunami & Lobster Rangoon Rolls. It was a LOT of food! And honestly they were excellent together! They complimented each other really well! Happy hour was awesome! $2.00 of everything on the menu! Definitely satisfied that craving for Mexican and sushi! It was just what we both wanted.“

4 Good241 Reviews
Azul Mexicano James Island Mexican • $
1989 Maybank Hwy Unit 101, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Fish Taco Pork Taco Chicken Enchiladas
Chicken Quesadilla with Rice and Beans
Kids Grilled Chicken and Fries
Steak Burrito Mexicano
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Vegetable Quesadilla
Chimichanga Dinner
Fajita Quesadilla
Lunch Chimichanga
Azul Chicken Bowl

“The food was amazing. Surprisingly, not very salty like other restaurants around here. I really liked how fast it was serviced. I loved every dish, but what I loved the most was the churros. It was so yummy and crunchy and the filling along with the ice cream was like a symphony.I will for sure go back again♥️“

4.1 Good76 Reviews
Pericos Mexican Cuisine Mexican •
1990 Hawthorne Dr, Charleston
5 Superb13 Reviews
Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge Mexican • $$
145 Calhoun St UNIT 301, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Hero Doughnut Chicken Sandwich Sliders
Seasonal Salad
Crab Benedict
Crab Tostada
Shrimp Tacos
Steak Tacos
Guacamole
Churros

“Sam the bartender is truly his personality. What sets Sam apart is his warm and engaging personality, making every visit to the bar a memorable experience. The attention to detail, combined with a genuine passion for mixology, ensures that each drink is crafted to perfection. Sam's ability to read customers and suggest personalized drink recommendations adds a delightful touch to the overall service. If you're looking for a skilled bartender who elevates your drinking experience, Sam is the one to seek out. Cheers to Sam for making every visit to the bar a highlight!“

4 Good107 Reviews
Casa Fiesta Mexican • $
808 Folly Rd, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Beans and Rice with Salad for Molcajete
Chicken & Bean Quesadilla
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Cheese Steak Burrito
Taco Burrito Combo
Chicken Fajitas
Trio Enchiladas
Rice and Beans
Shrimp Tacos
Chimichanga

“I throughly enjoyed dining here despite what the other reviews might suggest. The restaurant is clean, the service was great, and the food was good! I had the steak Mexicanos and I wouldn't have changed anything about the dish. I also enjoyed the margarita flight. Some flavors more than others, but that was expected. It felt like a bargain to get 4 different decently sized margs for $12. I will definitely return and highly suggest giving it a try!“

4 Good81 Reviews
Pink Cactus Charleston Mexican • $
100 A Spring St, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Pollo Taco and Carnitas Taco
Queso Fundido Con Chorizo
Chips and Guacamole
Cauliflower Taco
Chips and Salsa
Cheese Dip
Enchiladas
Rice Bowl
Ice Beer
Birria

“Flawless experience. My girlfriend and I came here for lunch and we had a fine time. The appetizer trio featured two flavors of salsa and both were fire. The queso and the gauc were equally on point. The service was great and our food came out quick. Definitely check this place out.“

3.8 Good80 Reviews
Viva Tacos & Tequila Mexican • $
864 Island Park Dr Suite #105, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Spicy Mango Michelada
Tower of Margaritas
Guacamole Casero
Queso Birria Taco
Chips Salsa
Quesadilla
Empanadas
Fish Taco
Ceviche
Fajitas

“Vegetarian options: Modern restaurant with home made tortillas hand crafted cocktails. This place makes me feel right at home. All ingredients are fresh. Staff is knowledgeable and they have a tequila sommelier to guide you to your favorite tequila.“

3.9 Good85 Reviews
Juanita Greenberg's Nacho Royale Mexican • $
439 King St, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Nachos Royale
Chips & Salsa
Taco Plate
Steak Taco
Burritos
Veggie
Queso
Fish

“I HAVE to come here EVERY TIME im in town (which is every year)!! I'm talking, even before I go to put my bags down, lol! I always get the chicken nachos. It's something about that cheese that keeps bringing me back, lmao!! I will see you in about 3 months, Juanita!“

3.9 Good82 Reviews
Azul Mexicano Downtown Sports Bar • $
385 Meeting St, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Fajitas
Shrimp Tacos
Street Tacos
Chimichanga

“First off the extremely courteous service, I felt very well welcomed. The atmosphere was great. Nice patio for outside dining and good view of outside downtown. Food wait time was extremely fast and tasted great! I will definitely come back. For Mexican that’s good and fast (extremely low wait time), clean and good customer service… I highly recommend. If tequila is your drink of choice, they have ALL the good brands. Azul won’t disappoint.“

3.9 Good79 Reviews
Mex 1 Coastal Cantina Mexican • $$
817 St Andrews Blvd, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Herradura Seleccion Suprema
Baja Spiced Santos Shrimp
Spicy Shrimp Quesadilla
Bangin' Shrimp Taco
Bangin Shrimp Taco
Street Corn Queso
Rice and Beans
Nachos Mamas
Triple Dipper
Chicken Bowl

“My Stars! The corn cheese dip is out of this world ? So delicious ?? absolutely love the banging shrimp ? Taco. The new pick 2 tacos and rice with beans . My new favorite! The corn chips are warm airy and crisp. This is my favorite restaurant.“

3.9 Good72 Reviews
Agaves Cantina Mexican • $
885 Island Park Dr, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Tortilla Soup
Taco Salad Chicken
Chips and Salsa
Street Tacos
Cheese Dip
Carnitas
Fajitas
Steak
Pepe

“Service is always amazing, and you're made to feel very welcomed there. Food is great, but I get nachos, so you can't really mess those up. My only complaint is they shred their lettuce into very skinny shreds - thinner than a string - and it somehow impacts the flavor of things. A slightly thicker shred would probably make a positive difference. And, yes, I know I just said that about iceberg lettuce! Overall, I highly recommend Agave.“

3.7 Good60 Reviews
El Gallo bar and grill Mexican • $
2601 Clements Ferry Rd, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Salad Beans and Rice
Cocktail Campechano
Mixed Meat Fajitas
Fresh Guacamole
Steak Mexicano
Quesadilla
Cheese Dip
Carnitas
Chicken
Cameron

“The food is phenomenal. The service is impeccable. The drinks are on-point. I’ve sat down and ordered takeout multiple times from this place and they never disappoint. The staff is always friendly and inviting. The cooks know what they’re doing. I love this place.“

3.8 Good60 Reviews
Santi’s West Ashley Mexican • $
1660 Savannah Hwy, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Cheese Dip
Salsa

“Excited to try the new Santi's in West Ashley! I have been a fan of the original Santis downtown for years. This new addition is fun, funky and a fantastic addition to this side of the river. The decor is fun and vibrant. Lots of artwork, murals and a Frida vibe. The food was delicious and the prices were great! They have lunch specials and favorites. We tried an appetizer, three entrees, a round of drinks for 75 dollars before tax and tip. Excited to have a fun spot for margaritas and Mexican food close by!“

3.8 Good48 Reviews
Agaves Cantina West Ashley Mexican • $$
3871 W Ashley Cir Unit 320 & 330, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Queso Fundido Con Chorizo
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Cheese Steak Burrito
Fried Chimichanga
Cheese Quesadilla
Quesadilla Fajita
Tortilla Chips
Fajita Chicken
Shrimp Tacos
Chicken Taco

“I had the Taquitos Mexicanos & it was amazing !!! it comes with 2 chicken & 2 steak. Me personally, i love the steak much better!! I ordered a side of steak to go on top of my lettuce, rice, sour cream, guac & tomatoes & i used the chips we get to make a nacho type of thing ! Was going to order churros until i found out that their frozen & come pre-made with caramel inside them. I hate caramel so that was a disappointment. Our server was super nice !“

3.6 Good68 Reviews
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