Toronto’s food scene is buzzing with fantastic Mexican spots, and I’ve got the scoop on the 12 must-try restaurants that bring the essence of Mexico right to our doorstep.
If you’re short on time, Fonda Balam and La Bartola are top picks you won’t regret.
But let’s dive into what makes each of these spots special.
1. Fonda Balam
This spot’s a winner with its chill vibes and top-notch Mexican eats. It’s famous for being on the Michelin Guide’s Bib Gourmand list – that’s like a big thumbs up for great value.
Grab their housemade salsas with crispy totopos for a flavour party. Don’t miss the Taco Dorados De Papa, it’s fried taco bliss filled with a tasty potato stew. Wash it down with an Aguas Frescas for that perfect zing!
What to order: House Salsas, Taco Dorados De Papa, Aguas Frescas
Address: 802 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1V3
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2. La Bartola
Picture this: cool decor and tacos that’ll make your taste buds dance. La Bartola is a snapshot of Mexico with its leafy, skull-adorned space.
The Hibiscus Flower Taco is a must-try with its braised flowers and salsa macha magic. Want a tangy twist? The Jackfruit & Mushroom “Al Pastor” Taco has got you covered.
What to order: Hibiscus Flower Taco, Jackfruit & Mushroom “Al Pastor” Taco, Pistachio Pipian, Oaxacan Chocolate
Address: 588 College St, Toronto, ON
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3. El Catrin Destileria
Step into El Catrin for an Insta-worthy feast. Their walls are a canvas of art, setting the scene for a Mexican food journey.
Dive into their Baja Tacos or the Beef Salpicon – it’s like a hug in food form with its tender ribs and fresh veggies. End on a sweet note with their Churros, and don’t skip the cajeta sauce!
What to order: The Baja Tacos, Beef Salpicon, Churros
Address: 18 Tank House Lane, Toronto, ON
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4. Campechano
This place oozes cool with white walls and a breezy patio. Their Ceviche is a fresh start, and it’s gluten-free.
Got a big appetite? Go for the Barbacoa or Braised Lamb – it’s seasoned to perfection. Mix it up with Pescado – it’s a flavour match made in heaven.
What to order: Ceviche, Barbacoa, Pescado, Fish Tacos, Mojitos
Address: 504 Adelaide St W, Toronto, ON
5. Playa Cabana
If lively and colourful is your jam, Playa Cabana is your spot. It’s all neon lights and yummy bites.
Scoop up their Guacamole & Salsa for starters. Love spicy? The Diablo taco with red chili shrimp packs a punch. Not so much? Chorizo Verde tacos are your best bet.
What to order: Guacamole & Salsa, Chorizo Verde, Diablo
Address: 2883 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON
6. Quetzal
Quetzal’s chic and unique – think minimalist with a cave-like twist.
Their Scallop Ceviche is light and tasty, and the Octopus is tender perfection. Save space for the Tres Leches cake; it’s a sweet dream.
What to order: Scallop Ceviche, Octopus, Tres Leches
Address: 419 College St, Toronto, ON
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7. XOLA
Xola is all about cozy vibes and bold flavours.
Kick off with their Sopa Azteca, a traditional soup that fills the heart. Their Barbacoa is lamb love on a plate, and for a spicy bite, the Cochinita Pibil Pork Tacos with achiote spice will do the trick.
What to order: Sopa Azteca, Ceviche, Barbacoa, Duck Confit Tacos, and Cochinita Pibil Pork Tacos
Address: 2222A Queen St E, Toronto, ON
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8. El Pocho Antojitos Bar
El Pocho is your spot for a chill night with beers and Mexican classics. It’s dark and cozy with candle vibes at night.
Start with their seasoned-to-perfection Ceviche and Elotes. Don’t forget the gluten-free Churros – just the right amount of sweet.
What to order: Ceviche, Elotes, Churros
Address: 2 Follis Ave, Toronto, ON
Website | Instagram | Facebook
9. Wilbur Mexicana
This place has got style and tacos that’ll have you coming back for more.
The Chicken Tinga Taco is a flavour fiesta, and the Bulgogi Taco? It’s a standout with its amazing bulgogi and fresh add-ons.
What to order: Chicken Tinga Taco, Avocado Taco, and Bulgogi Taco
Address: 552 King St W, Toronto, ON
10. El Trompo
El Trompo brings the authentic Mexican vibe with its lively decor.
Try the Torta Al Pastor for a sweet and savoury mix. Mushroom Tacos here are a game-changer, and if you catch them on the weekend, the Pozole Soup is a hearty must-have.
Address: 277 Augusta Ave, Toronto
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11. La Cantina Del Pueblo
La Cantina’s the place to gather your pals for some authentic Mexican grub.
Under the hanging lights, the Enchiladas Verdes shine with zesty flavour, and the Pastor Tacos are local legends for their juicy, well-seasoned meat.
Trust me, they’re worth the buzz.
What to order: Enchiladas Verdes, Nachos, and Pastor Tacos.
Address: 671 College St, Toronto, ON
Website | Instagram | Facebook
12. Seven Lives Tacos y Mariscos
Seven Lives shines with its laid-back Cali-Mex style. Dive into their Gobernador taco, where shrimp and cheese melt together perfectly.
It’s a bustling spot in Kensington Market, famous for big flavours in every bite. Their Baja Fish Taco is legendary – it’s like a wave of fresh, crispy goodness. Plus, it’s not just tasty – it’s a feast for the eyes too, with colourful toppings piled high.
Go early, the line gets long – that’s how you know it’s good!
What to order: Enchiladas Verdes, Nachos, and Pastor Tacos.
Address: 72 Kensington Ave, Toronto
Website | Instagram | Facebook
That ends our list for the best Mexican restaurants in Toronto. Craving for something else? We’ve got you!
Check out our list for the 15 best restaurants in Toronto you have to try.
How We Create Our “Best” Lists
All Noms Magazine’s “best” lists are created using multiple factors and signals to help readers find the best restaurants, things to do, and places to stay at. Some of these factors and signs include personal experiences, correspondence with locals, and compiling experiences from review sites.
Each list is also created to be balanced (in terms of price, cuisine type, ambiance, and more) as possible. This means that the lists are not specifically created in ranking order. You should be comfortable picking from any of the spots on the list and generally have a good time. But of course, YMMV (your mileage may vary) and everyone may have different experiences/palates.