12+ Incredible Mouthwatering Mexican Restaurants in Portland

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No joke y’all, this whole post started because I was CONVINCEDDDD there were no good Mexican restaurants in Portland. You could not tell me otherwise.

You see, I grew up in southern California. As you can imagine, my standards for Mexican cuisine are pretty darn high.

If you don’t know anything about me, or this is your first time on my blog, welcome! I moved to Oregon for university, and the small college town I lived in (Corvallis)…well, there was a Chipotle. But surely – SURELY – the biggest city in Oregon had to have more flavor, right?

Right???

Fast forward a few years and degrees later, I relocated to Portland. I hit up the MOST POPULAR Mexican restaurants in Portland and…they’re all lackluster. Or just plain bad. It was heartbreaking. In fact, after maybe the third or fourth attempt, I just stopped eating at “Mexican” restaurants in Portland altogether. I won’t go into it HERE and NOW, but know that Portland has had…a long history of food appropriation.

And not even GOOD food appropriation at that. The most “popular” and “highest rated” Mexican restaurants in Portland, and thus the ones getting all the public acclaim were mediocre at best. Owned by, unsurprisingly, white chefs. Now, I’m not saying a chef can’t be great at a cuisine from another culture, but how are you “the best” when your food tastes like watered down??

It’s because…that was the audience…

But I digress. Just like with getting my hair done, I had accepted that it was probably just better to wait until I was back in Los Angeles to get good Mexican food.

As you can probably guess from the simple fact that I’m making this blog post, you can probably guess that my stance on Mexican restaurants in Portland has changed. So what happened?

My good friend Monty (I’m manifesting this level of friendship lol) invited me out a restaurant that completely flipped my perspective on Mexican restaurants in Portland. That was…the beginning of 2020, and since then I’ve had the time of my life (and my taste buds) rediscovering Portland’s Mexican cuisine.

What I’m NOT Looking For

Now I mentioned before, unlike the much smaller pool of Black owned restaurants in Portland, there ARE quite a bit of Mexican restaurants in Portland. Like…A LOT. That doesn’t mean they’re all good though, which is what this list is for. However, just as a heads up, I did limit my search (for this list) to sit down restaurants. If I had included food trucks…it would take me years to narrow down my favorites. Same with taquerias.

Now obviously for me personally, the best Mexican restaurants in Portland HAVE to be food-first. I’m not really a drinker, so regardless of how good a restaurant’s bar is, if their food doesn’t match or exceed their drinks, it unfortunately did not make the cut for me. Or, even if their side plates were AMAZING, but the real highlight of the establishment were the drinks, I opted to leave them out as well. There were a few that fell into this category, and I’ll probably definitely include them in a best bars in Portland post, but just not this one.

Nothing personal.

What I’m Looking For

In terms of the menu, I do have a natural preference to enjoy menus with a bit more variety, but I definitely didn’t hold it against any restaurant if they only had a few menu items. After all, it’s always better to do a few things REALLY well than a lot of things poorly.

I did not have a specific price-point or budget in mind when I visited these restaurants. As with any cuisine, there is a huge range of prices for the below mentioned Mexican restaurants in Portland. Some of them are super casual spots, some are fine dining, and a lot fall somewhere in-between. That doesn’t make any of them less or more authentic than the rest.

A few years ago, I read one of the BEST food articles in my life. It talked about America’s obsession with seeing “authentic” Mexican food as “cheap.” If it’s not, then it’s not “real/good Mexican food”, and it’s “not worth it.”

I can’t seem to find it now, but if I do, I’ll definitely link it. Anthony Bourdain has also spoken out against the assumption that Mexican food (and Indian food, and a lot of cuisines in the global south) “should be cheap,” an assumption that stems from imperialism. I will fight any and everybody that thinks a certain cuisine cannot offer the elegant experience that are readily accepted for other cuisines.

It’s racist to try to box Mexican chefs into a lower price point. Why are you okay paying $300 at a fancy French restaurant, but not the same for a fancy Mexican restaurant?

MEXICAN FOOD CAN BE DOWNRIGHT REVOLUTIONARY OKAY?!?! And whew…if y’all went to some of the 5-star spots in Mexico….

But I digress. #IYKYK

Mexican Restaurants in Portland

Alright alright, let’s just get into it!! The following Mexican restaurants in Portland are my tried and true. I’ve been to each of them at least three times, and they’ve never let me down. Even when I order to-go, forget about it, then swing by 15 minutes before closing to pick it up.

Firstly, I’m so sorry *cry emoji

But it just goes to show some of the outstanding customer service and food quality of these fantastic Mexican restaurants in Portland.

Now, without further ado.

República

I don’t usually start these lists this way, but with the best Mexican restaurants in Portland…I gotta start it out with my absolute favorite. And not even like, favorite Mexican restaurant. No. ONE OF THE BESTTT RESTARUANTS IN PORTLAND. I can’t even say “my favorite” because at this point it’s just fact.

Please welcome. República.

Y’all.

This restaurant CHANGED MY LIFE. And I know the owner Angel is gonna rage for me calling República a “Mexican restaurant” (lollll let me explain!!!!), but this list LITERALLY would not exist without República. This was the restaurant that my friend Monty took me to, for a casual lunch, and I was like…hold up. This…

THIS IS GOOD. REAL GOOD.

So I decided to go back for their tasting menu dinner and…whew. Blew my mind. I don’t even keep track of the seasons by dates or weather anymore. I just go off the restaurant switching their chef’s menu.

Now, back to the reason why this isn’t exactlyyyy a “Mexican restaurant.” It’s because you will not find this food in Mexico. Anywhere. República uses ingredients from the pre and post colonial region that is now Mexico, BUT the dishes are completely new. Like some NEXT LEVEL innovation stuff. República is living in 3008, fo real. The chef’s menu really takes you on a journey, and each course is served with a side of insightful homage to its traditional uses or preparation. Again – YOU WILL NOT FIND “Mexican food” here. So leave your expectations at home.

I’m personally not a fan of alcohollies, but if you are I’ve heard they have one of the best wine/mezcal pairings as well!

Casa Colima

Casa Colima is a super casual, super family-style restaurant that you’re probably more accustomed to in terms of the dishes they sell. This is a spot that I probably would have never found if I weren’t intentionally looking for more Mexican restaurants in Portland.

Honestly, I would visit more often, but it’s located off of this street that has a speed trap camera (HEADS UP!!), and physically it is not my favorite to get to. BUT THE FOOD – the food is bomb. I highly highly highly recommend you get one of their appetizers, because they steal the show, especially the chicharrons. Also, if you are not a fan of super spicy salsas (I am not), definitely try them out before you pour them over your meal, okay? They bring the heat.

They also have taco Tuesday promotions, so look into that if you need a beginning of the weak eatery!

Pig Patas Tacos

If you don’t know where to look, you might just pass right by Pig Patas Tacos without even knowing.

It’s right off the corner of MLK Blvd and Killingsworth, so while you might get the impression that it’s always packed or busy, they usually have enough parking onsite, especially if you visit outside of the normal mealtime rushes.

Every staff member I’ve ever interacted with is so incredibly sweet and welcoming. Seriously, you’ll probably start feeling like family after the first or second visit, haha. This is one of the best Mexican restaurants in Portland just on the vibe alone! I appreciate that there menu has items that you won’t find at too many other places, like their alambres, and their bomb lil tortitas (it’ll change your entire lunch game frfr).

They also have a good selection of vegetarian options!

Tamale Boy

After República, Tamale Boy was really one of spots that restored my faith in Mexican restaurants in Portland.

Tamale Boy stole my heart from the moment I walked in because one of the staff said my dress was pretty *cry emoji

But amazingly sweet employees aside, the food is incredible! ESPECIALLY their pozole. They have both seasonal and staple menus, so I’d recommend going AT LEAST once a quarter to try all of the amazing new dishes they invent. I mean, you gotta try their seasonal tamale – it’s in their name. It’s a gamechanger. Plus, while their Happy Valley location is technicallyyyy outside of Portland, it IS in the greater Portland area and most definitely worth the trip.

Verde Cocina

I would also like to take a quick intermission to thank all of the friends and loved ones who accompanied me on eating at all of these Mexican restaurants in Portland. I know y’all probably got sick of me, but thank you for joining anyway hahah.

Anyways, Verde Cocina!

They are on the “hipper” side of Mexican restaurants in Portland, and while they do have a location in the Pearl (which I ALWAYS pass), I’ve actually only been to their Hillsdale location haha. It’s just closer to my house haha. And there’s free parking at Hillsdale. But their menu doesn’t doesn’t differ too much so both are good options.

If you are vegan or plant-based, Verde Cocina is one of the best Mexican restaurants in Portland for you because their plant-based menu is incredible – and extensive! Plus, all of their sauces are inherently vegan anyway. so you don’t have to ask!

Rocio’s

Rocio’s is another hip spot, and actually the only one of these Mexican restaurants in Portland that I’ve only been to once. I know I knowwww, cardinal sin, but y’all it was so delicious, I’m itching to go back. So, I’m listing there up there with the best of the best Mexican restaurants in Portland.

Aside from being super sweet and attentive, I also appreciated their wide variety of non alcoholie bevies. FOUR flavors of agua fresca you say??? Also, as far as Mexican restaurants in Portland that serve more traditional Mexican comfort foods – Rocio’s has some of the BESTTTT desert. Whew, it’s delicious. I’d go there for their tres leches alone.

I also appreciate that it’s very spacious, and is a great option for groups. And! It’s right across from Best Friends Juice, one of the best juice bars in Portland! Where else can you double fist a Christmas burrito and a carrot smoothie?

Güero

Imma be honest. I am skeptical of AND place that claims to have the best of anything. Like…how do you KNOW??? Those are pretty high claims!! But Guero was true to their word and TRULY have Portland’s absolute best tortas. Plus, they’ve solved one of my biggest strifes with tortas – Guero has options WITHOUT beans. I know I know, it’s not the tortas fault and completely on me for being a picky eater, but it’s nice to be accommodated.

Anyways, Guero usually has a good amount of street parking, so you won’t have any major problems there. Though, full disclosure, you might have to park a block or two away during peak hours *cry emoji

The menu is pretty straightforward as well. Obviously, I’d recommend getting a torta and maybe an appetizer (or two!) to share. They don’t have the biggest drink menu, but they do pair well with their dishes. Also, special shoutout to their special sauce: it’s not too hot (for babies like me), but super flavorful!

La Bonita | Food for the People

Now, La Bonita?

La Bonita took me back to LA.

If you’re looking for a quick home-y bite with affordable prices, La Bonita is definitely one of the best Mexican restaurants in Portland to keep your eye on. They have very generous portions, AND they have the great tastes to truly give you a bang for your buck. What REALLY puts La Bonita on the map is their extensive salsa bar. Seriously, they’re all delicious and will have you coming back just to have more food to eat with all of the different sauces haha.

Basically, if you’re looking for a spot that even your picky grandmother would like, go to La Bonita. They also have REALLY good horchata. Like, arguable one of the best in Portland, hands down.

Papi Chulo’s

Okay, sooo I know I said I’m not focusing on taquerias but Papi Chulo’s is one of the BEST Mexican restaurants in Portland for birria tacos!! I had to put y’all on!! Even BEFORE dipping, the meat is juicy and plump with flavor.

They also have really good bowls as well, highly recommend the fresca bowl. It is located in a pretty hoppin’ place, and is right next to one of the best bars in Portland, so if you go at nighttime, there might be a wait. Howeverrr, the trick is to go for lunch. That’s when there will be ample seating, chill ambiance, and a dope playlist for you and your stomach to enjoy.

Bar Carlo

So, as you know, I’m not much of a drinker. Which…may have you wondering why Bar Carlo is on the list. WELL, for your information, I didn’t know it was primarily a bar when I visited.

But…Kay…it’s literally in the…

YEAH YEAH I DIDNT KNOW THEY MEANT IT LITERALLY???

Okay, my own ignorance aside, I show up at Bar Carlo during happy hour. Quickly learning that the bar in Bar Carlo stood for…surprise, A BAR, I ordered a few items from their small (but mighty!) food menu. Y’all. It’s DELICIOUS. I absolutely LOVE their salad, and their bowl is right behind it. I know it’s a bar and whatever, but I’d honestly come here after a workout just for the good food.

Plus, easily adjustable for vegetarian and vegan diets. Although I haven’t been for brunch (yet!), it looks really really good.

Tierra Del Sol Cuisine (Montavilla)

SPEAKING OF POST-WORKOUT SPOTS. Tierra Del Sol Cuisine is my go-to. Which…is why I have such a terrible picture, please excuse that, I only order takeout because I’m on my way home from a workout class.

Y’all. You will FALL IN LOVE with their food. They specialize in Oaxacan cuisine (that’s a state in Mexico, for those who don’t know), and it lives up to Oaxacan expectations. They actually have a food truck at Portland Mercado, but I usually just swing by their physical Montavilla location when I’m on the go. I’d also recommend their tlayuda! They actually won best tacos in Portland a few years ago, though surprisingly I’ve never had their tacos haha.

But, with so many Mexican restaurants in Portland competing for that title, I’m sure they got that title for a GOOD reason!

Xico

Omg, so sorry, another terrible picture, BUT IM NOT A FOOD BLOGGER OKAY?!?!? Please forgive me Xico, and everyone else – trust me when I say Xico is another one of the great Mexican restaurants in Portland.

I mean, where else can you get a Sonoran hot dog in the Pacific Northwest??? But, my obsession with hot dogs aside, Xico truly has some of the best appetizers around. Seriously, I got so full off my appetizers (because I couldn’t pick just one) that I had to take my entire entrée home to-go. IF you want to like…order a reasonable amount of food or whatever, please for the love of cuisine, order their totopos.

With the entrees, you can also get wine, tequila, or mezcal pairings, or opt for one of their specialty cocktails. Or…order horchata like me haha.

One unique thing about Xico is that they have an “on the fly” menu, which feature dishes that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, super helpful if you’re just looking for something to order out. They are an upscale more modern restaurant, so keep that in mind! Also, super helpful to make reservations, especially if you’re visiting on a weekend.

Snacks & Pop-Up Mexican Restaurants in Portland

Omg, I literally started drooling just reminiscing about all of the delicious Mexican restaurants in Portland. Now…I do want to shout-out a couple of places that aren’t settled down in one place yet, but you’ll definitely want to keep up with them on Instagram so you can drop in for one of their pop-up events! Many are also available for catering as well!

As it turned out though, many of these are…dessert spots haha. Don’t worry, whenever I get around to the best desserts in Portland, I’ll be sure to include them there as well.

• Here for the Cakes: They do wedding cakes, celebration cakes, dessert bars, and even monthly Bakers choice boxes!
• Chelo: They do vegetable-focused local Mexican cuisine pop-ups all over Portland! You can also order their sauces to keep in your pantry!
• Churros Locos: Churro food truck – need I say more?? Trust me, you’ll want them to cater for your event
• Matutina: A bakery right next to one of the best coffee shops in Portland (La Perlita)!

NEARBY Mexican Restaurants in Portland

Okay okay, so it KILLS me to leave out a couple of my favorite Mexican restaurants just because they aren’t technicallyyyyyy in the zipcode of Portland. But yanno what, they deserve some recognition for their delicious food as well! So while the following establishments aren’t technically Mexican restaurants in Portland, they’re in the greater PDX metro area. If you aren’t opposed to a short lil drive, you should definitely check these places out!

• Little Conejo
• Mezcaluna
• Choza

Best Mexican Restaurants in Portland: Conclusion

Alright, this was fun, but all good things must come to an end. I hope you enjoyed my round up of my favorite Mexican restaurants in Portland – as much as I enjoyed eating at them! You can thank me later for elevating your restaurant repertoire.

Most of all, however, I hope that this post broadens your view on Mexican cuisine and its contributions to the culinary world. And I mean that much deeper than tacos and margaritas.

Mexico, including pre-colonial “Mexico”, has contributed SO MUCH to the food we eat every day. Corn, for starters. And I could honestly stop there. Vanilla. Cacao (chocolate). Gum. Pumpkin. Avocados. Beans. Chilis. Papaya. Tomatoes.

Even your precious chia seeds in your post-yoga smoothie bowl.

It is my honest opinion that we would not have advanced as a society without the invention of Mexican candy (and yes, I have a whole post on where to find the best online mexican candy store).

Whether you live in the city, or are just visiting, I hope this post inspires you to try out some of these incredible Mexican restaurants in Portland. Who knows, it just might become one of your favorites as well!

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