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The 5 Best Mexican Restaurants in Brisbane

The 5 Best Mexican Restaurants in Brisbane

  • Freshness - We assessed the quality and sourcing of fresh ingredients, guaranteeing vibrant flavours and wholesome dining experiences.
  • Spice sensation -  We considered the use of spices and chili peppers in dishes. It’s important for us to assess the balance of heat and flavour in each dish, ensuring a memorable and authentic Mexican spice experience.
  • Cultural immersion - We assessed the incorporation of Mexican art, music, and cultural elements in the restaurant’s ambiance, enhancing the authenticity and immersive experience for diners.
  • Dietary accommodations - We checked the availability of gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan options, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for guests with diverse dietary needs.

Did you know that Mexico introduced chocolate, chilies, and corn to the world, revolutionising global cuisine with its vibrant flavours? Fast forward to today, and it’s no surprise that Mexican cuisine continues to captivate palates worldwide.

In fact, in Brisbane, the Mexican restaurant scene is thriving, offering a delightful array of authentic dishes and innovative creations.

Hungry for some holy guacamole? Continue reading to uncover the best Mexican restaurants Brisbane has to offer!

1. Baja

1. Baja

Services: Dine-in, Private Dining

Website: http://www.bajamodernmexican.com/ 

Address: 211 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley, QLD 4006, Australia

Contact Details: +61 7 3625 0069

Operating Hours: Tuesday – Thursday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM; Friday – Saturday: 5:00 PM – 10:30 PM

Google reviews score4.6/5
Facebook reviews score4.1/5
Total reviews4.3/5
Score consistency5/5
Freshness4.3/5
    Availability of seasonal ingredients    4.5/5
    Farm-to-table practices    4/5
Spice sensation5/5
Cultural immersion4.5/5
    Art & decor    4.5/5
    Music & entertainment    4.5/5
Dietary accommodations4/5

Pros

  • Quick service
  • Has sophisticated interiors
  • Showcases chef’s culinary creativity by mixing Mexican flavours with other ingredients

Cons

  • Limited business hours
  • Some reports of small servings for the price

At Baja in Brisbane, we’re delighted by the explosion of flavours in every dish. From the zesty salsas to the rich mole sauces, we appreciate how each bite was a culinary adventure that left us craving more.

We love how stepping into Baja feels like entering a chic Mexican oasis. The sleek decor, vibrant colours, and tasteful artwork create an inviting ambiance that perfectly complement the dining experience.

Speaking of dining experience, we appreciate the efficient and attentive service at Baja. Despite the busy atmosphere, our dishes arrived promptly, allowing us to savour every mouthful without unnecessary delay.

In terms of this restaurant’s menu, Baja’s innovative approach to Mexican cuisine left us impressed.

The fusion of traditional Mexican flavours with unexpected ingredients like pear, radish, and kohlrabi elevated our dining experience to new heights, showcasing the culinary creativity of the chefs.

Although the dishes at Baja were undeniably delicious, we couldn’t help but notice the relatively small portion sizes compared to the prices. For some diners, the value proposition may not align with their expectations.

Moreover, while we made the most out of our time at Baja, we’re a bit disappointed to discover its limited business hours. This may pose a challenge for diners seeking a late-night dining option or those with busier schedules.

2. Cartel Del Taco

2. Cartel Del Taco

Services: Dine-in, Takeaway Delivery

Website: http://carteldeltaco.com.au/ 

Address: 290 Hawthorne Rd, Hawthorne, QLD 4171, Australia

Contact Details: +61 7 3096 0516

Operating Hours: Monday – Tuesday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM; Wednesday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM; 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM; Sunday: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM; 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Google reviews score4.6/5
Facebook reviews score4.7/5
Total reviews4.5/5
Score consistency5/5
Freshness4.8/5
    Availability of seasonal ingredients    4.8/5
    Farm-to-table practices    4.8/5
Spice sensation5/5
Cultural immersion4.8/5
    Art & decor    4.8/5
    Music & entertainment    4.8/5
Dietary accommodations4.9/5

Pros

  • Owned by Mexican ex-pats
  • Has outdoor seating
  • Offers vegetarian options
  • Family-friendly atmosphere
  • Utilises fresh local produce

Cons

  • Some reports of slow service, especially during peak hours
  • Rates are on the premium side

What sets Cartel Del Taco apart is its authentic Mexican ownership. With two Mexican ex-pat owners leading, the restaurant exudes genuine Mexican culture and influence, ensuring an immersive dining experience.

We also enjoyed the option to dine al fresco at Cartel Del Taco. The outdoor seating area provides a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, perfect for enjoying Brisbane’s sunny weather while indulging in delicious tacos.

What’s great about Cartel Del Taco is that they’re a family-friendly restaurant. Even better, high chairs are available for young diners.

This Mexican restaurant’s welcoming ambiance and accommodating staff make is an ideal spot for families looking to enjoy a tasty Mexican meal together.

We appreciate that Cartel Del Taco caters to vegetarian diners with a selection of flavourful and satisfying dishes. From grilled vegetable tacos to loaded nachos, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Additionally, Cartel Del Taco is committed to using fresh, locally sourced produce. Each dish bursts with vibrant flavours and quality ingredients, reflecting the restaurant’s dedication to supporting local farmers.

While the quality of food at Cartel Del Taco is undeniable, it’s worth mentioning that the prices reflect a premium dining experience. Diners should be prepared for slightly higher rates compared to other Mexican eateries in Brisbane.

3. Mama Taco

3. Mama Taco

Services: Dine-in, Takeaway Delivery

Website: https://www.mamatacobrisbane.com/ 

Address: Shop 4/59 Hardgrave Rd, West End, QLD 4101, Australia

Contact Details: +61 488 009 694

Operating Hours: Wednesday – Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM

Google reviews score4.5/5
Facebook reviews score4.8/5
Total reviews4.5/5
Score consistency5/5
Freshness4.8/5
    Availability of seasonal ingredients    4.8/5
    Farm-to-table practices    4.8/5
Spice sensation4.5/5
Cultural immersion4.3/5
    Art & decor    4.3/5
    Music & entertainment    4.3/5
Dietary accommodations4/5

Pros

  • Utilises traditional Mexican preparation and cooking techniques
  • Uses homemade and organic ingredients

Cons

  • Seasonal menu changes can happen
  • Limited menu variety

Mama Taco impresses with its dedication to traditional Mexican preparation and cooking techniques. From hand-pressed tortillas to slow-cooked meats, each dish reflects authentic flavours and textures.

What’s great about Mama Taco is its use of homemade ingredients. From tangy salsas to creamy guacamole, every element of the meal is crafted with care and attention to detail.

It’s worth mentioning that Mama Taco sources its produce organically, ensuring the highest quality and freshness in every bite. The commitment to organic ingredients reflects the restaurant’s dedication to sustainable and healthy dining.

Another thing we like about Mama Taco is its use of meat from ethically raised animals. We love that this Mexican restaurant prioritises animal welfare and sustainability, offering diners peace of mind with every bite.

We also commend the guys at Mama Taco for being hands-on, and exuding warmth and hospitality to their customers. From the welcoming smiles to the attentive service, the staff ensures that every visit feels like a homecoming.

On top of that, Mama Taco is a family-friendly restaurant that welcomes guests of all ages. With a relaxed ambiance and accommodating staff, it’s the perfect spot for a casual meal with loved ones.

While Mama Taco’s commitment to using fresh, seasonal ingredients is commendable, it may result in frequent changes to the menu, disappointing diners who have developed favourites or who prefer consistency in their dining experience.

4. El Planta

4. El Planta

Services: Dine-in, Takeaway Delivery

Website: https://elplanta.com/ 

Address: 58 Hope St, South Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia

Contact Details: +61 412 728 047

Operating Hours: Tuesday – Thursday: 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM; Friday – Saturday: 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM

Google reviews score4.7/5
Facebook reviews score4.9/5
Total reviews5/5
Score consistency5/5
Freshness4.5/5
    Availability of seasonal ingredients    4/5
    Farm-to-table practices    5/5
Spice sensation4.5/5
Cultural immersion4.3/5
    Art & decor    4.3/5
    Music & entertainment    4.3/5
Dietary accommodations5/5

Pros

  • No waiting time
  • Plant-based specialisation
  • Value for money

Cons

  • Staff attentiveness could still be improved
  • Limited dessert options

What’s great about El Planta in Brisbane is its dedication to plant-based Mexican cuisine, catering perfectly to vegan, vegetarian, and plant-based enthusiasts. 

Even better, dining at El Planta aligns with environmentally conscious values. 

By choosing plant-based options, diners contribute to reducing their carbon footprint and supporting sustainable food practices, making every meal at El Planta a step towards a greener future.

And despite being plant-based, we love how the dishes at El Planta are still bursting with flavour and depth. From zesty salsas to hearty bean fillings, each bite is a celebration of vibrant Mexican spices and ingredients, which we adore!

While El Planta excels in these savoury dishes, the dessert selection may be limited, leaving diners with fewer options to satisfy their sweet cravings. 

Meanwhile, it’s worth mentioning that El Planta has been known for its efficient service, with no waiting time for diners. The staff goes above and beyond to accommodate guests promptly, ensuring a seamless dining experience—yes, even during a holiday!

Another thing we love about El Plant is that they offer excellent value for money, with generous portions and reasonable prices. Customers can indulge in delicious plant-based cuisine without breaking the bank.

We just have our reservations when it comes to their staff’s attentiveness. While generally friendly, there may be instances where customers feel the need for more proactive assistance or attention to detail.

5. El Camino Cantina

5. El Camino Cantina

Services: Dine-in, Takeaway Delivery

Website: http://elcaminocantina.com.au/ 

Address: All Gas Building, 153 Stanley St, South Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia

Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM; Friday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM

Google reviews score4.5/5
Total reviews5/5
Score consistency5/5
Freshness4/5
    Availability of seasonal ingredients    4/5
    Farm-to-table practices    4/5
Spice sensation4.8/5
Cultural immersion5/5
    Art & decor    5/5
    Music & entertainment    5/5
Dietary accommodations4/5

Pros

  • Offers midweek deals
  • Has a strong party vibe
  • Extensive business hours
  • Offers TexMex fusion

Cons

  • Food quality could still be improved
  • Slower serving time compared to its counterparts

El Camino Cantina’s extensive business hours make it the perfect spot for late-night revelry or a post-work TexMex fix. Whether you’re craving tacos at midnight or margaritas after a long day, El Camino Cantina in Brisbane has you covered.

What’s even great about El Camino Cantina is its reputation for TexMex cuisine done right. From sizzling fajitas to cheesy nachos, each dish bursts with bold flavours and heartier portions, delivering an authentic TexMex experience.

While El Camino Cantina delivers on flavour and portion size, some diners may feel that the quality of food could be improved. Consistency in execution and attention to detail could elevate the dining experience even further.

In terms of the restaurant’s atmosphere, El Camino can give its customers a memorable night out. With lively music, colourful decor, and crowd-favourite jumbo Margaritas, we love how it’s become an ultimate destination for those in search of great cocktails and good times!

Another thing we appreciate about El Camino Cantina is that it offers enticing midweek deals, including $2 tacos on Wednesdays and half-price fajitas on Thursdays.

These specials add value to the dining experience and make it more accessible for budget-conscious diners.

One thing to note is that the serving time at El Camino Cantina can be a little slower during peak hours. Diners may experience longer wait times, especially when the restaurant is busy.


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