Best of 11 Tex Mex restaurants in Philadelphia
Tex Mex restaurants in Philadelphia have gained popularity, offering a unique blend of Mexican and American cuisine. These establishments showcase a variety of flavors and dishes, such as sizzling fajitas, cheesy enchiladas, and crispy tacos. Among the top-rated Tex Mex restaurants in Philadelphia are El Rey, Cantina "Calaca" Feliz, Lucha Cartel, Cantina Dos Segundos, and South Philly Barbacoa, all providing unique and delicious dining experiences.
1. Lucha Cartel
colorful decor, lively music, and excellent service

The food at this establishment is generally well-regarded, with many reviewers praising the taste. The Philly taco and fajitas are two dishes that receive frequent recommendations. However, not all reviews are entirely positive. Some diners have reported issues with cold food and the unpleasant discovery of bones in their dishes.
In terms of service, there are many positive comments about the friendliness and attentiveness of the staff. However, some reviewers note a lack of energy or responsiveness during their visit. It's worth noting that these negative comments are less frequent than the positive ones, but they suggest that there may be some inconsistency in the level of service provided.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Happy Hours
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2. Loco Pez
Colorful and quirky atmosphere with a focus on sustainability and local ingredients

The food served at this establishment is generally well-received, with many customers praising the flavorful dishes that often come with beans and rice. However, there are a few reports of unsatisfactory dining experiences, with some customers expressing disappointment with the food.
The drinks offered are a standout feature, often described as unique, delicious, refreshing, strong, and flavorful. The establishment boasts a good selection of drink choices, providing customers with a variety of options. Despite the positive reviews, a few customers have noted inconsistencies in the taste of the drinks.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Mid-Range
3. El Rey
Authentic Mexican cuisine in the heart of Philadelphia

The author had an incredible experience with their gluten sensitivity being perfectly accommodated. The food was outstanding and the service was friendly, leaving them eager to return. They highly recommend this place.
The service and food both received exceptional ratings. Every dish was delicious, with the Tumbada being a standout. The staff were described as super nice and cool, contributing to the overall positive atmosphere.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Gluten-Free
- Happy Hours
4. Cantina Dos Segundos
Unique urban setting with a lively bar scene

Drinks, including margaritas and beer, are a highlight at this establishment, with customers praising their taste and availability. The bartenders are a key part of this experience, as they are known for their attentiveness and efficiency in serving drinks.
Reviewers have consistently commented on the fast, friendly, and excellent service they have received. This high level of service contributes to the overall positive atmosphere and experience of the establishment.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
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5. Cantina "Calaca" Feliz
Colorful decor, impressive murals, unique and authentic Mexican dishes

The food at this establishment is generally praised by reviewers, with standout items such as the pork Al pastor tacos and Smothered Burrito. The taco selection is varied, including options for fish tacos with either salmon or tilapia. The fresh guacamole was a highlight for many visitors. However, there have been complaints about long wait times for food and inconsistent quality of the tacos.
One area that received criticism was the limited dessert options, with some hoping for flan but leaving disappointed. The fresh guacamole was a bright spot, and the taco selection includes both salmon and tilapia for the fish tacos. Unfortunately, there were issues with long wait times for food and varying quality in the tacos.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
6. Buena Onda
Fresh ingredients, flavorful dishes, and a lively atmosphere

Buena Onda in Philadelphia is known for its delicious fish tacos that are reasonably priced. It's an excellent spot for a quick to-go taco meal. The restaurant is famous for its fish tacos and margaritas, which are both highly recommended.
In summary, Buena Onda is a great place to grab affordable and tasty fish tacos in Philadelphia. Their reputation for excellent fish tacos and margaritas is well-deserved, making it an ideal place for a quick, satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Happy Hours
7. Blue Corn Restaurant and Bar
Authentic New Mexican cuisine and lively atmosphere

Blue Corn Restaurant and Bar is a Philadelphia establishment known for its authentic Mexican cuisine and exceptional margaritas. The restaurant's ceviche is a highlight, though some customers might appreciate the addition of saltine crackers. The tender cheek tacos are a must-try, and the red mole is nearly as delicious as a home-cooked version.
The restaurant's menu features a variety of unique and delicious options beyond the standard fare. Dishes like nachos and quesadillas are elevated with ingredients like squash blossom, providing a distinct and satisfying dining experience. Anyone seeking authentic Mexican flavors should consider giving Blue Corn Restaurant and Bar a try.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
8. El Azteca Mexican Restaurant Bar & Grill
Family-owned restaurant with a lively bar scene

El Azteca Mexican Restaurant Bar & Grill offers highly-rated Mexican food, with customers praising its taste, quality, and authenticity. The restaurant's menu includes dishes such as the shrimp burrito, which have impressed patrons. However, some customers mention that the food can be a bit pricey. Despite this, many view the food as high-quality and worth the cost.
In addition to its delicious food, El Azteca excels in service, atmosphere, and drinks, creating an excellent dining experience. The establishment's friendly and attentive staff contribute to its positive reputation. Furthermore, the restaurant's ambiance is warm and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a night out. To top it all off, El Azteca offers a wide range of drinks to complement its meals.
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9. Don Panchito Mexican Grill
Family-owned and operated for over 20 years

Some guests have expressed mixed opinions about the prices at the establishment, with some considering them reasonable and others finding them overpriced. The quality of the Mexican food offered has been highly praised, with popular dishes including flautas, tacos, and quesadillas. However, there have been some complaints about the chimichanga having too much rice and not enough chicken.
Guests seem to have differing views on the value for money provided by the establishment, with some feeling that the prices are reasonable and others disagreeing. The Mexican food served has received positive feedback, particularly the flautas, tacos, and quesadillas. However, there have been issues raised with the chimichanga, specifically that it contains too much rice and not enough chicken, which may affect guests' overall satisfaction with the meal.
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10. El Fuego
Live mariachi music on weekends, delicious homemade sauces
El Fuego is a restaurant that offers a wide variety of vegetarian options, making it a great choice for both meat-lovers and those who prefer to go meat-free. The restaurant has a family-friendly atmosphere, with staff who are known for being friendly and engaging, particularly towards children.
One of the most popular items on El Fuego's menu is their burritos. Customers rave about their delicious taste and generous portions. The fast service is also frequently mentioned, as is the freshness of the tortilla. These standout features make El Fuego's burritos a hit with customers.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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11. Tico's Tacos Tex Mex
Lively local favorite for Tex-Mex with a great selection of vegetarian and gluten-free options

The service at the restaurant was exceptional and memorable. The waitstaff, especially the waitress, went above and beyond to ensure a fantastic dining experience. She was friendly, knowledgeable, and provided excellent recommendations, particularly when it came to the tacos. Although the atmosphere was a bit dull, the restaurant still offered a cozy and comfortable setting.
The food was the highlight of the visit, with authentic Mexican flavors and generous portion sizes. The tacos, in particular, were outstanding and truly mouth-watering. The ingredients were fresh, and the flavors were expertly balanced, resulting in taste explosions with every bite. The affordability of the dishes further added to the overall satisfaction of the meal. The cleanliness of the restaurant and the kindness of the server contributed to the feeling of being back in Mexico, making for an enjoyable and memorable dining experience. The intention to return to the restaurant speaks volumes about the quality of food and service.
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