24 Top Mexican Food Gems You Must Try in Ontario

Ontario's culinary landscape is rich and diverse, and for lovers of vibrant flavors, the Mexican food scene truly stands out. From authentic taquerias serving up the best tacos in Toronto to cozy bistros offering delicious dishes across the province, there's a Mexican restaurant to satisfy every craving. This guide highlights 24 must-visit establishments, promising a journey through savory spices, fresh ingredients, and memorable dining experiences that bring the heart of Mexico to Ontario.

Table of Contents

• Campechano Adelaide
• Quetzal
• Puerto Bravo
• Mexhico Foods
• El Pocho Antojitos Bar
• Fonda Lola Mexican Bistro
• Tulum Mexican Restaurant
• 3 Mariachis ( Esplanade)
• 3 Mariachis Mexican Restaurant (Vaughan)
• 3 Mariachis (Richmond Hill)
• Bent Taco
• Reina De Mexico
• Contigo
• La Condesa
• Por Vida Mezcal & Mexican
• The Mexican House - Downtown
• The Mexican House - Latin Market
• Playa Cabana
• Playa Cabana Cantina
• Playa Cabana Wellington
• El Catrin Destileria
• Añejo Restaurant
• Añejo Restaurant
• Comal y Canela

1. Campechano Adelaide

Your downtown destination for Toronto's finest, authentically crafted tacos.

Campechano Adelaide is consistently praised for its fantastic and flavorful Mexican food, particularly its tacos. Diners rave about the great variety of unique flavors, with many highlighting the Al Pastor, barbacoa, pescado, and choriqueso as standout options. The meat is often described as very well-seasoned, the sauces extremely flavorful, and the corn tortillas super soft, making for a perfect bite. It's considered an amazing place to gather with friends or for a date night, offering an inviting vibe despite some comments on pricing.

• Rating: 4.5 (1.794 google maps)
• Address: 504 Adelaide St W, Toronto
• Phone: +1 647-350-2800
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Try the Al pastor, barbacoa, pescado, and choriqueso tacos; also, the virgin Pina mojito and guacamole are recommended.

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2. Quetzal

A Michelin-starred culinary journey into high-end Mexican cuisine.

Quetzal offers a truly unique and amazing dining experience, recognized with a Michelin star for its expressive Mexican food. Guests consistently praise the innovative flavors and perfectly balanced dishes, especially those cooked over natural fire and wood, which impart a subtle smoky aroma throughout the restaurant. The service is described as outstanding, attentive, and friendly, making guests feel completely taken care of. Many recommend the curated tasting menu to explore a variety of dishes like the Al Pastor, Tlayuda, Duck Breast, and beef tallow with shrimp, all while enjoying a vibrant atmosphere.

• Rating: 4.7 (1.317 google maps)
• Address: 419 College St, Toronto
• Phone: +1 647-347-3663
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Highly recommended dishes include Al Pastor, Tlayuda, Duck Breast, beef tallow with shrimp, and pork secreto. Don't miss the "Mexican Pharmacy" cocktail.

3. Puerto Bravo

Authentic Mexican seafood tacos that will blow your mind.

Puerto Bravo is hailed as a hidden gem for Mexican food, particularly excelling in its seafood tacos. Diners consistently rave about the fresh, flavorful, and perfectly spiced dishes, especially the "Camarones Bravos" shrimp tacos and pulpo (octopus) tacos, often calling them the "best I've ever had." The ceviche and aguachile tostada are also highly recommended for seafood lovers. The restaurant offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere with friendly, efficient staff, making it a must-try for anyone seeking exceptional tacos in Toronto.

• Rating: 4.7 (396 google maps)
• Address: 1425 Gerrard St E, Toronto
• Phone: +1 416-551-3700
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Must-try items include Camarones Bravos, pulpo tacos, seafood birria, ceviche, and aguachile tostada. Don't forget their refreshing Jamaica water.

4. Mexhico Foods

Experience authentic Mexican flavors with tableside guacamole and a vibrant atmosphere.

Mexhico Foods is celebrated for its truly authentic Mexican food and inviting atmosphere. A highlight for many diners is the tableside guacamole preparation, offering a fresh and engaging start to the meal. Guests consistently praise the delicious and flavorful dishes, with short rib tacos and shrimp tacos frequently mentioned as favorites. The staff are noted for being attentive, welcoming, and friendly, ensuring a wonderful dining experience. With its beautiful interior and lively patio, it’s a perfect spot for enjoying traditional Mexican cuisine.

• Rating: 4.7 (936 google maps)
• Address: 26 Baldwin St, Toronto
• Phone: +1 416-597-9622
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Table-side guacamole, short rib tacos, shrimp tacos, and chicken enmoladas are highly recommended. Pair your meal with their hibiscus margaritas.

5. El Pocho Antojitos Bar

A charming gluten-free haven for delicious Mexican small plates and cocktails.

El Pocho Antojitos Bar stands out as a charming and bustling spot, especially for those seeking delicious Mexican food with gluten-free options. Reviewers consistently commend the high-quality ingredients and tasty dishes, with favorites including the fish taco, grilled corn, chorizo, and octopus. Many appreciate that the entire menu, including desserts like churros, is gluten-free. The atmosphere is described as cozy, inviting, and energetic, complemented by friendly and helpful staff who excel at giving advice on menu choices.

• Rating: 4.6 (1.026 google maps)
• Address: 2 Follis Ave, Toronto
• Phone: +1 416-551-8131
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Don't miss the fish taco, grilled corn, chorizo, octopus, ceviche, pollo fritos, birria poutine, and gluten-free churros. Excellent cocktails available.

6. Fonda Lola Mexican Bistro

A Queen Street gem offering authentic Mexican food with a cozy patio and vibrant cocktails.

Fonda Lola Mexican Bistro is a beloved spot on Queen Street West, known for its great-tasting and good-looking Mexican food. Guests frequently praise the delicious drinks, especially the spicy margarita, and the cozy back patio with its appealing ambiance. Popular food items include the hot & guac salsa trio, fish and shrimp tacos, and the comforting soup. The service is often described as friendly and attentive, contributing to a memorable dining experience.

• Rating: 4.1 (971 google maps)
• Address: 942 Queen St W, Toronto
• Phone: +1 647-706-9105
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Highlights include spicy margaritas, hot & guac salsa trio, Baja fish salad bowl, fish and shrimp tacos, and churros.

7. Tulum Mexican Restaurant

An exquisite Mexican culinary experience with vibrant decor and friendly service.

Tulum Mexican Restaurant impresses diners with its exquisite and flavorful Mexican food, as well as its beautiful, original, and modern decor. Many praise the delicious drinks and the attentive, pleasant customer service, which makes guests feel comfortable and well-cared for. Standout dishes include the perfectly cooked Rib Eye and fish and birria tacos, often described as the best. The vibrant atmosphere with great music completes the incredible experience, making it a highly recommended spot for authentic Mexican cuisine.

• Rating: 4.3 (44 google maps)
• Address: 291 King St W, Toronto
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Try the Rib Eye, Molcajete, fish and birria tacos. Don't forget their signature "La vida eterna" cocktail.

8. 3 Mariachis ( Esplanade)

A downtown Toronto hidden gem for authentic Mexican food and a lively happy hour.

3 Mariachis (Esplanade) is celebrated as an authentic Mexican restaurant and a hidden gem in Toronto's St. Lawrence area. Diners consistently praise the fresh, full-of-flavor food, with the loaded nachos, birria tacos, chicken fajitas, and molcajete Cielo often cited as delicious and generously portioned. The staff are frequently described as very friendly and attentive, providing fast service. The restaurant offers great happy hour deals on food and margaritas, making it a great value and a lively addition to the neighborhood.

• Rating: 4.6 (204 google maps)
• Address: 140 The Esplanade, Toronto
• Phone: +1 416-507-1004
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Enjoy the 10" Chimichangas, Personal Mocajete Cielo, birria tacos, and their famous loaded nachos. Pair with delicious strawberry or mango margaritas.

9. 3 Mariachis Mexican Restaurant (Vaughan)

Vaughan's go-to for hearty, authentic Mexican cuisine and vibrant atmosphere.

3 Mariachis Mexican Restaurant in Vaughan is highly recommended for its fresh, homemade, and authentic Mexican cuisine. Guests frequently rave about the absolutely amazing food, particularly the fully loaded nachos where "not one chip was lacking," and the very good birria tacos. The atmosphere is described as vibrant and full of character, with a lively, welcoming vibe. The staff are consistently praised for being friendly, personable, and attentive, ensuring a great dining experience from start to finish.

• Rating: 4.4 (2.127 google maps)
• Address: 9200 Weston Rd, Woodbridge
• Phone: +1 905-832-0606
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Don't miss the loaded nachos, birria tacos, octopus tacos, and the dessert platter. Their bulldogs (beer cocktails) are a must-try.

10. 3 Mariachis (Richmond Hill)

A delightful addition to Richmond Hill's dining scene with authentic Mexican flavors.

3 Mariachis in Richmond Hill is a very welcome addition to the local culinary scene, praised for its authentic Mexican food and pleasant decor. Diners enjoy the freshness and full flavor of dishes like their amazing tacos, including tiger shrimp, fish, and birria. The portions are noted as generous, offering good value. Guests appreciate the warm and inviting atmosphere, and the staff are consistently described as friendly, attentive, and making sure everyone feels well taken care of.

• Rating: 4.4 (613 google maps)
• Address: 16 Vogell Rd, Unit: L, Richmond Hill
• Phone: +1 905-237-6006
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Highly recommend the Tiger Shrimp Taco, Fish Taco, Birria Taco, and Elote. Don't forget their churros.

11. Bent Taco

Collingwood's culinary surprise, serving unexpectedly delicious tacos and more.

Bent Taco is consistently praised as an absolutely amazing spot in Collingwood, offering some of the best tacos diners have had outside of Mexico. The food is described as incredibly flavorful and delicious, with special mentions for the chicken tinga, meat and potatoes, and baja fish tacos. The atmosphere is relaxed yet vibrant, with a beautifully decorated interior and a nice patio in the summer. Staff are noted for being kind, efficient, friendly, and very accommodating, ensuring a wonderful overall experience for those seeking great Mexican food.

• Rating: 4.6 (1.449 google maps)
• Address: 48 Pine St, Collingwood
• Phone: +1 705-445-0202
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Must-try items include the nachos (praised for their seasoning), chicken tinga tacos, meat and potatoes tacos, Baja fish tacos, peach salad, tot supreme, and ceviche.

12. Reina De Mexico

An authentic Mexican culinary experience where every dish tells a story.

Reina De Mexico is consistently lauded for its truly authentic and delicious Mexican cuisine, with food prepared by a Mexican chef. Diners highlight the outstanding flavors of dishes like the delectable shrimp tacos, birria, and classic churros, often described as the "best I've ever had." The atmosphere is cozy and pleasant, complemented by warm, welcoming, and friendly staff who contribute to an amazing experience. Live performances, including dancing, further enhance the vibrant and party-like ambiance, making it a must-visit for genuine Mexican food in Ontario.

• Rating: 4.6 (748 google maps)
• Address: 1226 King St W, Toronto
• Phone: +1 416-531-3077
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Don't miss the shrimp tacos, birria, pollo al pastor tacos, veggie sliders, and their amazing churros. They also offer delicious beer and liquor options.

13. Contigo

Mississauga's hidden gem for authentic Tex-Mex flavors and incredible tacos.

Contigo is hailed as an authentic Mexican food gem in Mississauga, known for its fantastic and flavorful cuisine. Diners consistently rave about the "super tasty" tacos, which are available in a mix-and-match option, making it easy to try different proteins like pulled pork, sautéed shrimp, chorizo, deep-fried fish, and jerk chicken. Portions are described as generous and well-priced, offering great value. The staff, including the owner, are praised for being awesome, welcoming, and helpful, contributing to a vibrant yet cozy atmosphere with great music.

• Rating: 4.9 (901 google maps)
• Address: 6465 Millcreek Dr, Mississauga
• Phone: +1 437-880-7801
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Try the pulled pork and sautéed shrimp tacos, Supreme Quesadilla, fried fish burrito, steak fiesta bowl, and their signature cilantro mayo sauce. Wide array of sauces and Mexican sodas available.

14. La Condesa

A Prince Edward County treasure for vibrant, authentic Mexican cuisine.

La Condesa is consistently praised as an exceptional Mexican restaurant in Prince Edward County, offering a truly authentic culinary experience. Diners rave about the delicious, fresh, and perfectly flavored food, with particular highlights on the white fish and shrimp ceviche, fish tacos, tuna tostada, and Mexican street corn. The handmade tortilla shells are noted for their quality. The atmosphere is described as very cute, stylish, cozy, and vibrant, making it an ideal setting for a meal. The staff are commended for being friendly, knowledgeable, and highly accommodating, even for dietary restrictions like gluten and dairy.

• Rating: 4.7 (1.143 google maps)
• Address: 270 Wellington Main St, Wellington
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Must-try items include the white fish and shrimp ceviche, fish tacos, tuna tostada, octopus and chorizo tostada, Mexican street corn, braised beef tacos, and pork tacos. Their margaritas are also highly praised.

15. Por Vida Mezcal & Mexican

A lively Oakville spot for authentic Mexican tacos and vibrant atmosphere.

Por Vida Mezcal & Mexican offers a delicious Mexican experience, particularly known for its authentic flavors and vibrant atmosphere. Diners consistently praise the freshness and flavor of the tacos, with the birria and truffle guacamole frequently mentioned as excellent. Many appreciate the "all-you-can-eat" taco experience and the ability to mix and match proteins. The restaurant is described as lively and cozy, with a heated outdoor patio, making it a popular spot. The staff are noted for being welcoming, friendly, and providing excellent service.

• Rating: 4.3 (1.32 google maps)
• Address: 2330 Lakeshore Rd W, Oakville
• Phone: +1 289-815-8432
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Highly recommended are the birria tacos, truffle guacamole, husk and marrow appetizer, shrimp tacos, chicken tacos, and churros. Don't miss their mango pop and Mexican Mule cocktails.

16. The Mexican House - Downtown

Barrie's downtown oasis for authentic Mexican cuisine and live music.

The Mexican House - Downtown is celebrated as a true gem in Barrie, offering authentic Mexican food with exceptional flavors that are hard to find elsewhere in Canada. Diners consistently rave about the fresh, high-quality, and generously portioned dishes, especially the chimichangas, birria tacos, and their outstanding chips and salsa. The restaurant boasts a vibrant and colorful atmosphere, often featuring live music that creates a festive fiesta vibe. The staff are frequently praised for being friendly, attentive, and providing excellent service.

• Rating: 4.5 (767 google maps)
• Address: 24 Maple Ave, Barrie
• Phone: +1 705-726-7774
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Must-try items include the loaded nachos, birria tacos, chicken fajitas, chimichangas (with delicious red and green sauce), and their Flan dessert.

17. The Mexican House - Latin Market

A one-stop shop for authentic Mexican flavors and Latin American groceries in Barrie.

The Mexican House - Latin Market is highly praised as an excellent spot for authentic Mexican food and a convenient Latin grocery store. Diners consistently laud the delicious, fresh, and generously portioned dishes, with highlights often including the birria tacos, enchiladas, and chimichangas. The staff are frequently described as incredibly friendly, attentive, and welcoming, making guests feel right at home. This location is particularly noted for its true Mexican flavors and high-quality ingredients, making it a must-try for anyone seeking genuine Mexican cuisine in the Barrie area.

• Rating: 4.6 (1.502 google maps)
• Address: 12 Commerce Park Dr, Barrie
• Phone: +1 705-725-2410
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Highly recommended are the birria tacos (with perfect consomme), chimichangas, green enchiladas, beef quesadillas, campechano tacos, horchata, and churros. Also try the homemade tortilla chips.

18. Playa Cabana

A vibrant Toronto spot for delicious Mexican food and lively good times.

Playa Cabana is a popular Toronto destination renowned for its delicious Mexican food and vibrant atmosphere. Diners consistently praise the mouthwatering flavors and textures of their tacos, with the beef barbacoa, shrimp, and fish tacos (especially in a crispy hard shell) receiving high acclaim. The guacamole and elote are also frequently mentioned as excellent starters. The service is often described as great, fast, and cheerful, contributing to a fun night out with friends or a great lunch experience.

• Rating: 4.4 (1.719 google maps)
• Address: 111 Dupont St, Toronto
• Phone: +1 416-929-3911
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Must-try items include beef barbacoa tacos, shrimp diablo tacos, Al pastor pork tacos, guacamole, elote, and the tres leches cake. Don't forget their delicious cocktails.

19. Playa Cabana Cantina

The Junction's lively cantina for unforgettable Mexican taco experiences.

Playa Cabana Cantina is highly regarded as one of Toronto's best Mexican restaurants, particularly for its outstanding tacos. Diners rave about the incredibly delicious and flavorful food, with specific mentions of the octopus, grilled skirt steak, L.A. Truck, and shrimp tacos as sublime. The tuna ceviche and corn are also highly recommended. The restaurant features a charming, well-decorated interior and an upbeat, energetic ambiance. The staff are frequently praised for being attentive, friendly, and providing great service, ensuring a wonderful dining experience.

• Rating: 4.2 (1.144 google maps)
• Address: 2883 Dundas St W, Toronto
• Phone: +1 647-352-7767
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Highly recommended are the octopus tacos, grilled skirt steak tacos, Tuna ceviche, L.A. Truck taco, shrimp mariscos burrito, chicken wings, and the tres leches cake.

20. Playa Cabana Wellington

A vibrant and flavorful Mexican escape in downtown Toronto.

Playa Cabana Wellington is a delightful Mexican restaurant praised for its delicious and flavorful food, often highlighted by its exceptional fish and shrimp tacos. Diners consistently commend the fresh guacamole and chips, as well as the perfectly seasoned tuna ceviche. The restaurant boasts a very chill atmosphere with good music and decor, creating a pleasant dining experience. The staff are noted for being friendly, patient, and providing great service, making it a reliable spot for quality Mexican food in downtown Toronto.

• Rating: 4.2 (344 google maps)
• Address: 36 Wellington St E, Toronto
• Phone: +1 416-519-4886
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Try the grilled fish tacos, shrimp tacos, guacamole, tuna ceviche, Wellington Nachos, and churros. Margaritas are also a highlight.

21. El Catrin Destileria

Toronto's iconic Mexican experience with a stunning patio and exceptional flavors.

El Catrin Destileria is a renowned Mexican restaurant in Toronto's Distillery District, celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, stunning large patio, and delicious Mexican food. Diners consistently rave about the fresh guacamole made tableside, the incredibly flavorful and tender meat in their tacos (especially shrimp tacos like "gobernador"), and the perfectly done fish tacos. The decor is described as beautiful, authentic, and creating a unique experience. The service is frequently praised for being excellent, attentive, and incredibly kind, contributing to a fantastic and memorable dining experience.

• Rating: 4.2 (8.629 google maps)
• Address: 18 Tank House Lane, Toronto
• Phone: +1 416-203-2121
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Highlights include table-side guacamole, shrimp gobernador tacos, fish tacos, grilled rainbow trout, duck breast, corn, and their highly-praised tres leches cake. Don't miss the margarita flights.

22. Añejo Restaurant

King Street's lively spot for delicious Mexican food and irresistible happy hour deals.

Añejo Restaurant on King Street is a true gem, celebrated for its delicious Mexican food and vibrant, lively atmosphere. Diners consistently rave about the "absolutely delicious" margaritas and the "best guacamole I've ever had," which is often prepared tableside for ultimate freshness. The tacos, particularly the fish and braised beef options, are highly praised for their generous fillings and great flavor. Guests often recommend visiting during happy hour for fantastic deals on both tacos and margaritas. The service is consistently described as attentive, friendly, and welcoming, making every visit a great experience.

• Rating: 4.5 (3.075 google maps)
• Address: 600 King St W, Toronto
• Phone: +1 416-862-8226
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Must-try items include table-side guacamole, fish tacos, braised beef tacos, chorizo tacos, tortilla soup, and their excellent churros. Explore their wide selection of tequilas and margaritas.

23. Añejo Restaurant

Don Mills' top choice for authentic Mexican food and an inviting ambiance.

Añejo Restaurant in Don Mills offers a fantastic Mexican dining experience, praised for its authentic flavors and inviting atmosphere. Diners consistently highlight the amazing table-side guacamole and the delicious variety of tacos, including carnitas and fish. The restaurant boasts a spacious and elegant ambiance, suitable for both large groups and intimate meals. The service is frequently described as excellent, friendly, and attentive, with staff going above and beyond to explain dishes and provide great recommendations, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit.

• Rating: 4.3 (2.84 google maps)
• Address: 7 Marie Labatte Rd, Toronto
• Phone: +1 647-368-7170
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: Must-try items include table-side guacamole, carnitas tacos, fish tacos, quesabirria with beef short ribs, and their acclaimed churros. Also try their signature mango mint fresco drink.

24. Comal y Canela

Toronto's authentic birria taco heaven, bringing real Mexican flavors to your plate.

Comal y Canela is widely celebrated as the best spot for birria tacos in the GTA, offering an incredibly authentic Mexican food experience. Diners consistently rave about the tender, flavorful meat, the incredibly juicy and packed tacos, and the rich, perfectly heated consommé for dipping. Beyond birria, guests also enjoy the beef bacon nachos and shrimp tacos. The atmosphere is described as small but vibrant, with excellent decor. The staff are frequently praised for being very friendly, attentive, and helpful in guiding guests through the menu.

• Rating: 4.5 (2.932 google maps)
• Address: 1692B Jane St, York
• Phone: +1 647-689-4694
• Google Maps: Navigate with Google Maps
• Menu: The absolute must-try is their birria tacos with consommé. Also recommended are the beef bacon nachos, shrimp tacos, and braised pork burrito. Don't miss their hibiscus lemonade.

Conclusion

Whether you're craving a quick, authentic taco, a high-end culinary adventure, or a lively spot for a night out, Ontario's diverse array of Mexican restaurants offers something for everyone. From the vibrant flavors of downtown Toronto's best Mexican food spots to charming hidden gems across the province, the options above promise delicious dishes and memorable experiences. Choose a place that suits your preferences and needs, and don't forget to share your experience with us in the comments section below this article!