Toronto is a city with a growing restaurant industry, and Mexican cuisine is no exception with no shortage of delicious dishes to try. For any foodie in Toronto, whether a native or a tourist, a trip to the city’s greatest Mexican restaurants is a must.
With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. But fear not!
In this blog, we’ve done the research and taste testing for you, compiling a list of Toronto’s best Mexican restaurants. From authentic family-owned eateries to trendy modern spots, we’ve got you covered.
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What Makes A Great Mexican Restaurant?
Mexican cuisine has gained immense popularity in recent years, and for good reason. It’s a cuisine that’s rich in flavor, spices, and culture. But not every Mexican restaurant is the same. So, what makes a great Mexican restaurant stand out from the rest?
- First and foremost, a good Mexican restaurant needs to serve authentic dishes made with high-quality ingredients. The meat and vegetables must be both fresh and flavorful.
- The atmosphere is vital. Even from hundreds of miles away, a superb Mexican restaurant should transport you to Mexico. Everything should be real and appealing, from the vibrant design to the music.
- An excellent Mexican restaurant should also have a cheerful, helpful staff that loves their food and wants to share it.
- Finally, a superb Mexican restaurant should feature a bar with a variety of tequila and mezcal and distinctive cocktails that complement the meal.
These are the factors that we considered while choosing the best Mexican restaurants in Toronto.
Best Mexican Restaurants in Toronto | Google Rating | No. of Google Reviews |
Wilbur Mexicana | 4.6 | 3,713 |
Seven Lives Tacos y Mariscos | 4.6 | 2,875 |
Comal y Canela | 4.5 | 1,410 |
Quetzal | 4.7 | 607 |
Gus Tacos | 4.5 | 734 |
Where To Find The Best Mexican Restaurants in Toronto
Google My Maps Link:
https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/edit?mid=1wqe_fOMGDJDnLL_-z450cW2p1Utayjk&usp=sharing
We’ve scoured the Greater Toronto Area hoping to find the best Mexican restaurants, and here are our top 5.
Wilbur Mexicana
“Experience the fun flavors”
Taco Tuesday, or any day – Wilbur Mexicana has got you covered. (Image source: Google business photo, Ames)
Wilbur Mexicana is a fast-service Mexican stand in Toronto’s hip King West Village. It’s known for its unique concept, playful decor, and authentic So-Cal-inspired Mexican dishes. The open-kitchen concept allows diners to watch as their food is freshly prepared, and the DIY salsa and hot sauce bar lets them customize their tacos to their liking.
Taco ’bout a fun and flavorful dining experience. (Image source: Google business photo, Jenna Kaplan)
The restaurant’s well-stocked bar also offers a range of cocktails that perfectly complement the cuisine. From the colorful decor to the flavorful dishes and drinks, this restaurant is the perfect spot for a fun and satisfying meal.
Pricing: Tacos start at $6.00
Pros:
- Delicious and filling burritos and tacos.
- A great variety of vegetarian options is available.
- Great place for takeout and delivery.
Cons:
- Long lineups during peak hours.
Location: 552 King St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1M3
Google Rating: 4.6 stars out of 5 (3,713 reviews)
If you’re looking for a dining experience that’s full of flavor and fun, look no further than Wilbur Mexicana. With a Google rating of 4.6 stars and over 3,700 reviews, this takeaway place is a must-try.
Seven Lives Tacos y Mariscos
“A fiesta for your taste buds”
Enjoy the sunshine and delicious food at Seven Lives Tacos y Mariscos. (Image source: Seven Lives Tacos y Mariscos Instagram)
Seven Lives Tacos y Mariscos is a must-visit Mexican restaurant for taco lovers. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with a colorful and lively atmosphere that’s bound to make you feel excited and ready to indulge in some delicious food. The decor is eye-catching, with bold and bright colors that are reminiscent of a sunny day in Mexico.
Can you handle the heat? Come try Spicy Tacos at Seven Lives Tacos y Mariscos. (Image source: Seven Lives Tacos y Mariscos Instagram)
The star of the menu at Seven Lives is the Baja-style tacos and for good reason. Their tacos feature house-smoked tuna, grilled shrimp, and cheese, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. The combination of flavors and textures is truly divine, making it a standout dish that you’ll be craving long after you’ve left the restaurant.
Pricing: Tacos start at $7.00
Pros:
- A must-visit spot for any taco lover..
- A low-key and casual atmosphere.
- Friendly staff.
Cons:
- Sometimes crowded with a line-up.
Location: 72 Kensington Ave, Toronto, ON M5T 2K2
Google Rating: 4.6 stars out of 5 (2,875 reviews)
The seating is cozy and intimate, with a few barstools, outdoor tables, and a petite nook by the window. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Seven Lives Tacos y Mariscos is the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings.
Comal y Canela
“Serving authentic Mexican classics”
Join the locals in experiencing the authentic taste of Mexico at Comal Y Canela. (Image source: Comal y Canela Instagram)
Comal Y Canela is a tiny Mexican restaurant that serves authentic Mexican food, including tamales, sope, quesadillas, and birria tacos, all freshly made every day. Despite its small size and lack of indoor seating, the restaurant has become a popular spot among locals for its truly authentic take on Mexican classics.
Savor the authentic flavors of Mexico with Comal Y Canela’s delicious cuisines. (Image source: Comal y Canela Instagram)
If you’re looking for a truly authentic Mexican dining experience, Comal Y Canela is the place to go. The cozy spot is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere and has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google with over 1400 reviews, making it a must-visit destination.
Pricing: Tacos start at $18.60
Pros:
- Authentic and homemade Mexican menu.
- Generous portions with plenty of meat in tacos.
- Large menu with many options to choose from.
Cons:
- Limited seating with only a few tables.
Location: 1692B Jane St, York, ON M9N 2S4
Google Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5 (1,410 reviews)
Quetzal
“Experience an unforgettable night out”
Get ready for a dining experience like no other at Quetzal, where unique architecture meets bold flavors. (Image source: Quetzal Instagram)
The Quetzal Mexican Restaurant is a unique and aesthetically pleasing space with a cave-like structure and minimalist aesthetic. It features a 9-seat bar overlooking a 28-foot open flame where diners can watch chefs grill meat, vegetables, and seafood. The drinks menu offers creative Mexican cocktails and a strong selection of Niagara and Prince Edward County wines.
All your favorite dishes available here at Quetzal. (Image source: Quetzal Instagram)
The restaurant’s ambiance is a perfect blend of modern and traditional Mexican designs, making it stand out from other Mexican restaurants. Its open kitchen concept allows customers to see how their meals are prepared, adding an interactive and entertaining element to their dining experience. Quetzal offers not only delicious food, but also great drinks that complement the dishes perfectly.
Pricing: Appetizers Start at $24.00
Pros:
- Unique and interesting take on Mexican cuisine.
- Excellent flavors and bold dishes that feel like works of art.
- Cool and cozy romantic ambiance that’s great for couples or groups.
Cons:
- Pricey compared to other Mexican restaurants in the area.
Location: 419 College St, Toronto, ON M5T 1T1
Google Rating: 4.7 stars out of 5 (607 reviews)
With a Google rating of 4.7 stars and over 600 reviews, Quetzal is a perfect spot for those who want to explore the unique and creative culinary creations of Mexico while enjoying a cozy and elegant atmosphere.
Gus Tacos
“Bite into the authentic tacos of Mexico”
Bite into crispy, juicy tacos and experience a fiesta in your mouth. (image source: Gus Tacos Instagram)
Gus Tacos, also known as Taqueria Gus, is a Mexican restaurant that started its journey in Toronto’s bohemian market. It has now expanded to three locations in the city due to its popularity among taco lovers. The restaurant takes great pride in the quality and technique of its food, using slow-braised carnitas, tender barbacoa, and handmade corn tortillas in its dishes.
Gus Tacos’ Burritos are bursting with fresh ingredients and mouth-watering flavors. (Image source: Gus Tacos Instagram)
In addition to a variety of tacos, Gus Tacos offers other Mexican favorites like chilacas, tortas, burritos, and quesadillas. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere with stool seating at the front and an open kitchen overlooking the checkout counter. It also features a lovely backyard patio where guests can enjoy their meals.
Pricing: Tacos Start at $5.00
Pros:
- Fast and friendly service
- Handmade corn tortillas
- Nice and private backyard patio
Cons:
- Limited variety in taco fillings
Location: 225 Augusta Ave, Toronto, ON M5T 2L4
Google Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5 (734 reviews)
With its dedication to quality and technique, a rating of 4.5 stars, and over 700 reviews, Gus Tacos has become a go-to spot for Mexican cuisine in Toronto, offering a delicious and authentic taste of Mexico to all who visit.
Discover the best Mexican restaurants in Toronto
In conclusion, Toronto’s food scene is very diverse, and there are many Mexican restaurants that offer something for everyone. From the savory flavors of tacos to the sweet indulgence of churros, these restaurants bring the authentic taste of Mexico to your table.
So why not go on a culinary adventure and try out some of Toronto’s best Mexican restaurants? Come and experience the best of Mexico in Toronto—you won’t be disappointed!