2025 Guide to Ultimate Five Mexican Diners in Memphis, Tennessee

Race Day Live , (Memphis, TN) – There’s more to Memphis than its world-famous BBQ. The Home of the Blues is also home to diverse cuisines, including Mexican food.

Take your pick from the taco stands and fancy joints tracing the Mississippi River. We promise that every bite will take you to the land on the other side of the border. Discover the best Mexican restaurants in Memphis using our guide below.

Maciel’s Tortas & Tacos

Located in downtown Memphis, Maciel’s hits the sweet spot between affordable and authentic. Maciel’s is a small taco joint found in central Memphis. Despite its small size, it’s a local favorite for great tacos at reasonable prices.

While there are choices for indoor dining, its fast-casual vibe makes it great for takeout. Customers also love the place’s options for delivery and catering. This mix of quality and service puts Maciel’s in the top spots for the tastiest tacos near you.

You can never go wrong with their Street Tacos. Starting at three dollars, expect meaty tacos stuffed with onion, cilantro, and lime. The Fried Tacos are delicious bestsellers as well.

Aside from rice and beans, they have extra toppings of lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese. The savory flavors pair well with dollops of sour cream on top.

Babalu

With daily operating hours, Babalu guarantees only the freshest ingredients. Unlike other joints, this casual dining resto offers Latin-inspired southern cuisine. They take pride in their made-from-scratch meals and handcrafted drinks.

Customers also love the place’s modern vintage interiors. If you don’t feel like eating outside, you can always order online. For big parties, Babalu has excellent catering services. Curb your appetite with their homemade Tableside Guacamole served with House Chips.

The avocados taste even better once you add in crispy bacon bits and extra heat from the jalapenos. Moving on to the main course, you must try their Shrimp Tacos. Smack your lips to grilled shrimp slathered with their signature comeback sauce.

La Cocina Mexicana Bar & Grill

If you’re craving authentic Mexican food in Memphis, La Cocina Mexicana Bar & Grill is the place to be. La Cocina Mexicana Bar & Grill is a family-friendly pub known for its delicious food at affordable prices.

Compared to other places, they also have bigger portion sizes. Whether you’re eating with friends or loved ones, you’ll love the mellow vibe. It’s situated close to many local hotels as well.

So expect plenty of tourists during the peak season. Start your meal with a big bowl of Supreme Nachos. The chips have chicken, beef, and beans and are loaded with creamy white cheese sauce.

Each serving comes with sour cream to balance the juiciness. Another crowd favorite is their Taquitos. Expect four rolled and deep-fried tortillas stuffed with your choice of meat. On top of that, you also have lettuce, guac, and tangy pico de Gallo.

Playita Mexicana

Loved by local Latinos, Playita Mexicana is one of the top Mexican restaurants in Memphis. Playita Mexicana serves mouth-watering Tex-Mex cuisine for family and friends. With hands-on owners, the place radiates a feeling of comfort and home.

Thanks to the great food and cozy vibe, it’s a popular place for Clevelanders. So we recommend visiting during the off hours, especially if you’re not a big fan of crowds. And did we mention their generous portions?

When it comes to recipes, Playita Mexicana believes that simple is best. Guests love their Chips and Salsa made with the freshest ingredients available. Their cheese sauce is so savory and creamy that you’ll want to drink it.

Their Enchiladas are also a must-try. Stuffed with yummy chili rellenos and beans, you’ll surely leave your plate clean.

Molly Gonzales’ LA Casita

With over 40 years in Madison Avenue, Molly’s is an award-winning resto with lots of heart. Molly’s is impossible to miss. Located in Midtown, this peach-colored joint is a neighborhood staple.

Guests love coming back for their tried-and-tested recipes, plus the weekend brunch menu. And don’t forget their Margarita Mondays. Who doesn’t love two dollars off on their house margaritas?

For appetizers, Molly’s boasts the best Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Shrimp. Each shrimp has spiced cheese and crunchy bacon cooked to perfection. You’ll also have a spicy and smoky BBQ sauce to go with it.

Locals recommend trying their Original Chimichangas. Imagine a large chili relleno smothered with cheese sauce. Topped with raisins, pecans, and red onion, the dish is a celebration of flavors.

Also Read: 2025 Guide to Best 11 Mexican Restaurants in El Paso