Salt Lake City’s culinary landscape is blooming, a vibrant tapestry woven with flavors from around the globe. And at the heart of it all is a passionate love affair with Mexican food. From the comforting aroma of simmering carnitas to the fiery kick of a perfectly crafted salsa, Mexican cuisine has firmly established itself as a staple in the Salt Lake City dining scene. Craving authentic tacos, zesty enchiladas, or a soul-soothing bowl of pozole? Salt Lake City boasts a Mexican restaurant to satisfy every craving, every palate, and every budget.
Navigating this delicious abundance, however, can feel overwhelming. How do you choose between the countless taquerias, cantinas, and upscale eateries vying for your attention? This guide explores some of the best Mexican restaurants in Salt Lake City, showcasing a range of flavors, atmospheres, and price points to help you find your perfect Mexican food fix. We’ll be considering factors like authenticity, quality of ingredients, flavor profiles, ambiance, and overall value when highlighting these top contenders.
A Fiesta of Flavors: Top Mexican Restaurants in Salt Lake City
Let’s dive into a curated selection of restaurants that consistently deliver exceptional Mexican cuisine, offering a taste of Mexico right here in Salt Lake City. These are places where the passion for authentic flavors shines through, making them must-visit destinations for any Mexican food enthusiast.
Red Iguana: A Salt Lake City Institution
No discussion of the best Mexican food Salt Lake City has to offer is complete without mentioning Red Iguana. This iconic restaurant, a beloved fixture in the city for decades, is renowned for its complex and flavorful moles. Be prepared for a wait, as Red Iguana’s popularity is well-deserved.
The menu is a vibrant tapestry of regional Mexican dishes, with a particular emphasis on moles from Oaxaca. The flavors are deep, rich, and incredibly nuanced, a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients. While the moles are the stars, don’t overlook other specialties like the cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote) or the chile verde.
Red Iguana is considered one of the best for its unwavering dedication to authentic flavors and its commitment to providing a genuine Mexican dining experience. The atmosphere is lively and bustling, adding to the overall charm. Expect to pay a mid-range price for a memorable meal. Many consider it an adventure in dining and their portions are ample. As one reviewer aptly put it, “Red Iguana is a Salt Lake City treasure. The mole is unlike anything I’ve ever tasted.”
Frida Bistro: Modern Mexican with a Flair
For a more contemporary take on Mexican cuisine, Frida Bistro offers an innovative and upscale dining experience. Named after the iconic Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, the restaurant’s decor reflects its artistic inspiration, with colorful murals and a sophisticated ambiance.
The menu features modern interpretations of classic Mexican dishes, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Expect creative presentations and unexpected flavor combinations. Signature dishes include the duck confit enchiladas and the seared scallops with poblano cream sauce. They offer unique cocktails and pairings as well, to enhance the dining experience.
Frida Bistro earns its place among the best with its commitment to culinary innovation and its elegant atmosphere. It’s a perfect choice for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. The price point is higher than some other Mexican restaurants in Salt Lake City, but the quality of the food and the overall experience justify the cost. The elevated culinary experience makes this a unique stop on your Mexican food journey. “Frida Bistro takes Mexican cuisine to a whole new level,” says one satisfied diner. “The food is exquisite, and the service is impeccable.”
El Morelense: Authentic Street Tacos at Their Finest
If you’re seeking authentic street tacos without the frills, El Morelense is a must-visit. This unassuming taqueria is a favorite among locals for its simple yet incredibly flavorful tacos. The focus here is on quality ingredients and traditional preparation methods.
Choose from a variety of fillings, including carne asada, al pastor, carnitas, and lengua (beef tongue). The tacos are served on warm corn tortillas with your choice of toppings, such as cilantro, onions, salsa, and lime. The key to El Morelense’s success lies in its dedication to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and preparing each taco with care.
El Morelense is considered one of the best for its authentic flavors, its affordable prices, and its no-nonsense approach to Mexican street food. It’s a perfect spot for a quick and satisfying lunch or a late-night snack. Expect a casual atmosphere and friendly service. For an easy and authentic stop, this taqueria offers the perfect solution. A local taco aficionado raves, “El Morelense has the best street tacos in Salt Lake City, hands down. The carne asada is perfectly seasoned, and the tortillas are always fresh.”
Taqueria 27: Sophisticated Tacos and a Lively Atmosphere
Taqueria Twenty-Seven offers a balanced approach to Mexican dining. It delivers authentic Mexican flavors with a touch of modern flair. Its a crowd pleaser with many locations for ease and convenience.
With a focus on tacos, the menu features a wide variety of fillings, from classic carne asada and al pastor to creative options like shrimp with chipotle aioli and grilled portobello mushrooms. The tacos are served on homemade tortillas, and the restaurant also offers a selection of delicious sides and appetizers. The atmosphere is vibrant and lively, making it a popular spot for groups and families.
Taqueria Twenty-Seven is one of the best for delivering an all around dining experience. With delicious and memorable tacos in a lively environment, its a place to remember and come back to. “Taqueria Twenty-Seven is a great spot for tacos and margaritas,” says a happy customer. “The food is always fresh and flavorful, and the atmosphere is fun and energetic.”
Los Garcia: A Family Tradition of Flavor
Los Garcia’s is a perfect example of a local neighborhood shop that has gained in popularity from delivering good food consistently. They are well known for their delicious and hearty tortas as well as their authentic and savory taco variations.
Los Garcias is considered one of the best options for a quick lunch or for taking home to the family, and has continued to gain in popularity. With flavorful dishes that come in at an affordable price, this restaurant is a hit. “Los Garcia’s is always a hit and their tacos can’t be beat”
Exploring Beyond the Restaurants
While restaurants are a fantastic way to experience the best Mexican food Salt Lake City has to offer, there are other avenues to explore as well.
Mexican Food Trucks: A Mobile Fiesta
Keep an eye out for the numerous Mexican food trucks that roam the streets of Salt Lake City. These mobile kitchens offer a convenient and affordable way to sample a variety of Mexican dishes. Look out for trucks specializing in tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and other street food favorites.
Farmers Markets: Fresh Ingredients, Authentic Flavors
Visit local farmers markets to find fresh Mexican ingredients, such as chiles, tomatillos, cilantro, and corn. These ingredients are essential for creating authentic Mexican dishes at home. Many farmers markets also feature vendors selling homemade tortillas, salsas, and other Mexican specialties.
Mexican Bakeries (Panaderias): Sweet Treats and Savory Delights
Don’t forget to explore the local Mexican bakeries, or panaderias. These bakeries offer a wide selection of delicious Mexican pastries, breads, and cakes. Sample classics like conchas, pan dulce, and tres leches cake.
Tips for Finding Your Own Mexican Food Gems
Finding the best Mexican food is a personal journey. Here are a few tips to help you discover your own favorite spots in Salt Lake City:
- Listen for Spanish: Look for restaurants where the staff speaks Spanish. This is often a good indicator of authenticity.
- Read Reviews: Pay attention to online reviews, but don’t rely solely on them. Consider the source and look for reviews that are detailed and specific.
- Ask for Recommendations: Don’t hesitate to ask locals for their recommendations. They often know the hidden gems that tourists might miss.
- Be Adventurous: Don’t be afraid to try new things. Step outside your comfort zone and explore different dishes and restaurants.
- Social Media: Check social media for the latest buzz on new restaurants and food trucks. Local food bloggers and influencers often share their favorite Mexican food finds.
Concluding the Culinary Journey
Salt Lake City offers a vibrant and diverse Mexican food scene that caters to all tastes and budgets. From authentic street tacos to modern interpretations of classic dishes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We have explored a few of the best options to find something new to enjoy, or to remind you of a favorite.
So, grab your appetite and get ready to explore the best Mexican food Salt Lake City has to offer! We encourage you to try these spots and discover your own personal favorites. With so many delicious options waiting to be discovered, you’re sure to find your perfect taste of Mexico right here in Salt Lake City. Now, go out there and enjoy the sizzling flavors!
