How Many Mexican Restaurants Are There in the US?
There are over 85,000 Mexican restaurant businesses across the United States as of 2024, according to Restaurantji data. This is a 1.5% increase from the previous year. These Mexican restaurants are heavily concentrated in a few key states. Over half (51%) are located in just six states - California (19,5%), Texas (16,8%), Florida (4,1%), Illinois (3,9%), New York (3,6%) and Arizona (3,2%).
Big national restaurant chains serving Mexican food are also very common. Taco Bell has the largest share with over 7,550 locations across the country. Taco Bell accounts for 8,8% of all Mexican restaurants and almost a half (45,7%) of the Mexican chain (i.e. more than 5 locations) restaurant market. Other top national Mexican chains serving their takes on burritos, Mexican rice, elote, and other favorites include Chipotle, Qdoba, Moe's Southwest Grill and Del Taco.
Looking at the different styles, 22% of Mexican restaurants nationwide are considered fast food places, while 12% specifically serve tacos. 8% are food trucks or carts, and 6% offer Tex-Mex cuisine. The majority (52,4% or 44,716) are reasonably priced restaurants rated as one "$" on Restaurantji.
While Americanized Mexican dishes like hard-shell tacos, overstuffed burritos, and lots of melted cheese are very popular menu items, there are differences from authentic Mexican food. Traditional Mexican uses more corn tortillas instead of flour, fresh cheeses like queso fresco rather than heavy cheeses, and more subtle, complex flavored sauces and seasonings.
Mexican food is extremely popular and common all across the United States. It is deeply rooted in American food culture in every part of the country. Let Restaurantji guide you to great Mexican restaurants every day.
7 Mexican Culinary Regions
The North
With a strong ranching tradition, Northern Mexican cuisine revolves around beef. Grilling is very popular, along with staples like refried beans, rice, and dried beef machaca. The cattle industry also produces a variety of cheeses like queso fresco. Flour tortillas enabled the invention of the burrito in Sonora. Other famous dishes include marinated arrachera skirt steak, cabrito roasted baby goat, and capirotada bread pudding.
The North Pacific Coast
Stretching along the Pacific, this region supplies much of Mexico's produce, cheese, chiles, and seafood. The cuisine showcases the abundance with many vegetable, fruit, grain, and seafood dishes cooked with chiles and European spices like parsley, thyme, and cilantro. Guadalajara is the cultural center, known for stews like birria and pozole. The Pacific coast also produces tequila.
The Bajio
Very similar to Spain's central plains from the earliest settlers, the Bajio cuisine features rice, pork and spices. Popular dishes include morisqueta (sausage and rice), carnitas (fried pork), and typical sweet treats like cajeta (goat's milk caramel), arroz con leche (rice pudding), and bunuelos (fritters). The town of Cotija is known for its namesake aged cheese. The local spirit is charanda from fermented corn.
The South Pacific Coast
The indigenous cuisines of Oaxaca, Guerrero, and Chiapas feature staples like chicken, pork and Oaxaca's string cheese. Oaxaca is famous for its seven distinctive mole varieties using chiles, chocolate, nuts and cinnamon. Other specialties include tamales, enfrijoladas (tortillas in bean sauce) and diverse fiery chiles like the chile de siete caldos. In Chiapas, corn is the main staple used for tortillas, empanadas and more, often with very spicy chile condiments on the side.
Central Mexico
As a cosmopolitan capital, Mexico City offers foods from all regions like barbacoa lamb, birria goat stew, cabrito kid, carnitas pork, and complex moles from Puebla. Street food is hugely popular with taco stands, torta sandwich shops, and lunch counters everywhere. The city is also home to restaurants serving pre-Hispanic cuisine with ingredients like insects. For haute cuisine, this is the place to go.
The Gulf
With influences from indigenous, Spanish and Afro-Caribbean cultures, Gulf coast cuisine makes use of tropical fruits, vanilla, citrus, olives, capers and annatto seed. Seafood like Veracruz's signature snapper dish is emblematic. The flavors extend to dishes with peanuts, plantains, yuca and sweet potatoes. Tabasco offers incomparable seafood variety including crab and crayfish.
The South (Yucatan)
Based on Mayan food with Caribbean, European, Asian and Middle Eastern influences, the Yucatan peninsula's cuisine is distinct. Corn is the staple used for liquids and solids. Annatto seed adds color and flavor, used in recado pastes for pit-cooked dishes like cochinita pibil. Other specialties include tropical fruit salsas, habanero condiments, honey drinks and seafood like conch.
Tex-Mex vs Cal-Mex vs Traditional Mexican Cuisine
Traditional Mexican cuisine uses staples like corn, beans, chiles, tomatoes and avocados in dishes like moles and tamales. Tex-Mex originated when Mexican-American communities in Texas blended Mexican recipes with American ingredients like beef, cheddar, wheat tortillas and cumin. It includes dishes like nachos, fajitas and crispy tacos. Cal-Mex from California emphasizes fresh, healthy ingredients like avocados and grilled meats. It features burritos stuffed with non-traditional items and fuses Mexican flavors with other cuisines.
Most Popular Mexican Dishes in The US
Restaurantji has millions of restaurant reviews across the US and Canada. We've taken all the reviews in the Mexican food category to determine Americans' favorite Mexican dishes
Quesadilla - A quesadilla is a simple Mexican dish made by putting cheese between two tortillas. The name means "little cheesy thing." Quesadillas likely started in northern Mexico, especially the state of Sonora. They are a handy finger food that can be dipped in salsa. Common ingredients are cheese (often a mild white cheese) and tortillas.
You can try some of the best quesadilla in the country here:
Talkin' Tacos Buckhead in Atlanta, GA
Mexican Mariachi Grill y Tequila Bar in Glassboro, NJ
Guacamole - This avocado dip dates back to the Aztecs in 1500s Mexico. The Aztecs made an "avocado mixture" called ahuaca-mulli from the avocados native to the region. Guacamole became popular due to the high nutrition in avocados - they are full of healthy fats and protein for a fruit. Key ingredients are mashed avocados, onion, cilantro, lime juice, and chili peppers.
Check out these restaurants for a perfect guacamole:
Fat Rosie's Taco & Tequila Bar in Frankfort, IL
Los Sarapes Horsham Mexican Cuisine Margarita and Tequila Bar in Ambler, PA
Joe T. Garcia's in Fort Worth, TX
Chips & Salsa - Salsa (a spicy sauce) and tortilla chips originated in Latin America before becoming hugely popular in the US and Canada. According to Mayan myth, dried corn kernels were used by peasants to make a snack for kings. By 2003, chips and salsa was declared the official state snack of Texas! Common salsa ingredients are tomatoes, onions, chilies, cilantro and lime juice.
These restaurants have the most positive comments on their Chips & Salsa:
Rj Mexican Cuisine in Dallas, TX
Loco Burro Fresh Mex Cantina and Tequila Bar in Knoxville, TN
Chimichanga - While not authentic Mexican food, the origins of the chimichanga are disputed between restaurants in Tucson and Phoenix, Arizona. The story goes that a burrito was accidentally dropped in a deep fryer, creating this crispy fried burrito dish. Chimichangas stuff flour tortillas with rice, beans, cheese and meat like beef or chicken.
Restaurantji recommends these places:
Guadalajara Grill, Tucson's Best Mexican Restaurant in Tucson, AZ
Top Shelf Mexican Food & Cantina in Phoenix, AZ
Agave Azul Winter Park in Winter Park, FL
Carnitas - Meaning "little meats" in Spanish, carnitas are made by frying pulled pork in milk and orange juice until crispy outside but tender inside. Typically using pig legs, ribs, stomach and tongue. The exact origins are debated between states like Michoacan and Jalisco. Carnitas are often enjoyed with salsas, onions, cilantro, cheese and lime for added flavor.
The best restaurants with carnitas on the menu according to Restaurantji:
Solita Tacos & Margaritas in Orlando, FL
Palenque kitchen by Mezcal in Riverside, CA
Carnitas La Piedad Taqueria in Fresno, CA
Is Mexican Food Healthy?
Mexican food is quite healthy. Most dishes feature fresh, natural ingredients like lean proteins, grilled chicken, seafood and a rainbow of vegetables. Traditional tacos don't usually have melted cheese, unlike Tex-Mex versions. Mexican cuisine relies on corn tortillas which are naturally gluten-free and are fiber-rich complex carb that aids digestion. Even guacamole, made from avocados, provides heart-healthy fats.
What is National Taco Day?
National Taco Day is celebrated in the US on October 4th every year. It's an unofficial food holiday started by taco chains to promote and sell more tacos. Mexican restaurants, Tex-Mex restaurants and taco trucks offer deals and discounts. Fast food chains like Taco Bell do social media marketing, limited-time offers and giveaways. Grocery stores give discounts on taco ingredients. People celebrate by having taco parties and sharing photos using #NationalTacoDay.
What is the Oldest Mexican Restaurant in the US?
Established in 1922, El Charro Café in Tucson, Arizona is the nation's oldest Mexican restaurant continually operated by the same family. The original owner is said to have invented the chimichanga.
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“Melissa was great! The food came out super fast and everything was delicious as always!!”
“Visiting from L.A. Diego the host, waiter was great. Food was delicious without the salsa, but green and red were home made and made tacos and burritos...”
“Jason took care of us and we had the best dining experience. The food and service were amazing. Will definitely be coming back and recommending.”
“Our visit to the restaurant was a great experience thanks to the morning team and Viviana who made us feel part of the Chavo neighborhood.”
“Wendy’s service was great. The food and margaritas are amazing. The bar should consider a flight so one could sample a variety?”
“I have only ordered delivery from Agave Azul I haven't actually been there but the food is always amazing. The flavors of the food give your mouth m...”
“Coyote Taqueria is fantastic. Definitely stop in if you're in the area. Hopefully you are in when Martin is working the bar - he's outstanding!”
“JULIA!! That’s all I have to say. She is so attentive, sweet & caring. She made sure our glasses were never empty of margaritas or water and refilled...”
“Kevin, our server, is the best!!! He needs a raise.Food and margaritas were awesome and tasty.”
“Excellent services, delicious food and the first class attention that Eduardo gave me, I really recommend it.”
“Tres Leches! 10 out of 10. Honestly, Michael's service made the food 30 times better. we've had Cyclone Anaya's in multiple cities. Simply...”
“Exceed expectations, go ahead and try the guacamole burger. Fast service and great food 10/10Vegetarian options: 10/10Dietary restrictions: 10/10Kid-frie...”
“Marisol was awesome! The food was delicious. I will definitely have to go againVegetarian options: OkParking: SeveralKid-friendliness: Kid friendlyWhee...”
Recently Opened Restaurants
“This place is one of a kind! I’ve never had an experience like this one! Chef Johnny and Kasie have absolutely nailed it with this concept! This food ...”
“I highly recommend getting a burrito here. The best one I have had in awhile. The salsa was also so fresh and full of flavor. I’ll be back soon!”
“Food was awesome great . chilaquiles also quesadillas amazing .I do recommend this place is inside store”
“Service was still adequateBut think I perturbed my waiter because I asked for a couple items to be removed from what I ordered ? I just don't like e...”
“Best Mexican food I've had in a while.Fresh and tasty food. Clean and new interior. Friendly staff.Will definitely be back.”
“The first time I ate here I had the juevos rancheros, nothing was seasoned and I didn't love it. Had a burrito from there a few weeks later and it w...”
“Food wasn’t bad but it wasn’t great. Service wasn’t good but not horrible. The decor is pretty bad and the burned meat smell and heavy smoke were very un...”
“Old school family owned taqueria, super chilled, food made fresh, taste great and even better with a Corona Familiar.”
“If you’re looking for great tasting a latte, this is the spot fresh tasty and yummy”
“Mar 26th, 2024I’ve ordered 3 tacos: Birria, Cabesa and Lengua. Cabesa was the best, lengua - alright, birria looked and tasted like shredded beef (still ...”
“Hands down the best spot to go to in town! Their burritos and tacos are always very good. Very friendly staff!”
“Tried 3 times; each time at the drive through. Hardly anyone was in line or inside and service took at least 10-15 minutes. Chicken hard shell tacos had ...”
“I was hoping for better being that I can walk here from home..but once again, az mexican food fails..I gota say though, it was all the way edible..nothin...”
“My new go to spot. The families tried carnea asada nachos, Chile Verda, fajitas. All were great.”
“Taco truck. Morning till like 9pm. Good tacos. Good people. Takes both cards and cash.”
Recent Reviews
“We ordered supreme fajitas… we picked them up brought them home and there were no tortillas. We called and told them… they said tha...”
“The food was delicious and seasoned just right. The chips were a bit over cooked. Overall--GREAT EXPERIENCE!”
“Absolutely DELICIOUS!!!! A few months ago we stopped and got two chicken burritos, to go ,the smokers out front made the place smell amazing. Got home an...”
“Very rude and hostile manager towards wait staff and hostesses. Overheard manager berating employees and calling them hoes.”
“The margaritas were outstanding. The food was excellent as well as the customer service. My only suggestion was that they should serve chips that are...”
“Who are the owners? Real authentic? I’m from California so I know Mexican food lol”
“Our family recently had a birthday party in the patio room for approximately 30 people. I have to say it was wonderful! They gave me so much help from un...”
“The lunch buffet is back and as yummy as ever! I’ve been a fan of Mexico in Alaska since the mid-80s. Great food, great service, wonderful owne...”
“Over priced burrito Wasn’t hot Way to much meat”
“We come here frequently, one thing i really like is they have people to translate if they can't understand. the waiter we have had several times and...”
“OMG. WHAT A NASTY NASTY RESTAURANT. Food all over the kitchen floor- no one seemed to care- they just stepped over it, instead of sweeping it up. The sta...”
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“Look.... I'm just gonna say it.... the other Lil local Mexican place that I thought was so good, lost a regular customer after tasting the food here...”
“The very BEST Mexican food around!!”
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“My man working the register was super friendly. The food was delicious. 5/5. Definitely check these guys out.”
“You will never have better tacos .. ther birria is on point by far my favorite taco spot in Cali hands down”
“staff is warm and welcoming , food is always good never have had an issue with it, way better than the places nearby. would recommend!!”
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“Very delicious food and fairly priced. I ordered the California burrito and it was one of the best burritos I’ve had in a while.”
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“The nachos and aguas frescas were so good. They have a small table and you can eat by the food truck. Definitely a great meal.”
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“Oh you’re missing out if you haven’t been here. They taste even better than the pictures.i got my mango snack and hurried home to dig in. I was NOT disap...”
“The flower Tortillas was good food is average will not be coming back to this location customer service she had an attitude at the drive-through.10:00 AM...”
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“Amazing experience!!! first time eating at Madre Maiz, great customer service, restaurant very clean. I order a Carne Asada torta that was very delicious...”
“LOVE THEIR FOOD!!!! Try the table side ceviche. WOW. Hate it when they're out of it. Only happened once. And their staff is always so kind”
“I actually was surprised how good the food was, better than most Mexican restaurants, great beans and mole, good chicken. I would definitely bring family...”
“Food taste amazing and the service is great! Came here we the family had a great time !Parking: They have a person guiding for parking”