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CLEVELAND, Ohio — Finding great Mexican cuisine is not always an easy task.
We know. In 2019, cleveland.com’s Best of Cleveland team went in search of the best Mexican fare in Northeast Ohio. Blue Habanero came out on top, but after a long search, fueled by lots of input from readers, we found plenty of other great spots to satisfy south-of-the-border cravings.
Cleveland’s Best Mexican Restaurant winner is Blue Habanero! See Top 20 rankings
But that was then — before the pandemic. What about now? We’ve teamed up with our friends at Yelp Cleveland for a fresh, new spin.
Whether you are looking for the perfect spot to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, or just hankering for a great street taco or overstuffed burrito, we are certain you’ll find a new favorite cantina on this list.
Methodology:
This is an all-time list of the best Mexican restaurants in the Greater Cleveland area, according to Yelp Cleveland. Yelp Cleveland identified businesses in the Mexican category, then ranked those spots using a number of factors including the total volume and ratings of reviews.
This list looked at businesses in the following counties: Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain, Medina, Portage and Summit.
If a local chain appeared on the list more than once, we only included the highest-rated location.
We worked directly with Yelp Cleveland on this list to reflect accurate data. Want to see your favorite spot make the list next time? Pen your first review and apply for the Yelp Elite Squad today: yelp.com/elite.
Here are the results, broken down by county:
CUYAHOGA
No. 1
La Plaza Supermarket
13609 Lakewood Heights Blvd., Cleveland, 216-476-8000
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “I recently moved from Texas, where tacos are readily found in food trucks on street corners everywhere. I was happy to give this place a shot, and even happier that it tastes great! The prices are fair, and the meats are delicious. They even have menudo on the weekend! The grilled onions and jalapeños in the salsa bar are also a favorite of mine…” – Brian T.
No. 2
Tapatia’s Taqueria
12501 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, 216-600-5505
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “My fiancé and I loved everything about this place! Great service, very clean, good atmosphere and delicious tacos!! We tried a bunch of different tacos – chicken, barbacoa, chorizo, and steak – all of which were very good; the chorizo being my fiancé’s favorite and chicken mine! We will be back!” – Katie B.
No. 3
Mamacita’s
6164 Broadview Rd., Parma, 216-712-6904
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “Great food! Had a Cali burrito which was authentic and brought me right back to SoCal. So tasty and filling. Affordable pricing with great value. Also very convenient with ordering online. Most definitely coming back again.” – Andrew D.
No. 4
Momocho
1835 Fulton Rd., Cleveland, 216-694-2122
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “Love this place! We walked in randomly and we’re so happy we did! Delicious enchiladas, tacos, margaritas. Decor is so adorable, too. Definitely will be back!” – Lisa L.
No. 5
Cilantro Taqueria
20090 Van Aken Blvd., Shaker Heights, 216-465-2002
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “DELICIOUS EXCELLENCE! Cilantro Taqueria will make Chipotle seem like vending machine food. Their quesadillas are amazing and unlike the paltry thin tortillas with melted cheese, meat and cut into 4 pieces that most people think are the standard. Their delicious Mexican Street Corn is served on the cob with a stick, and their chips, salsa and queso fundido are so addictive, you may not be able to stop! My family and I can’t wait to return!” – Jim L.
No. 6
Cozumel
16512 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-228-1415
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “Always have great consistent meals at Cozumel. Expect standard American-Mexican dish’s but with great flavor and a reasonable price. They usually have interesting specials, great happy hour, and amazing salsa. Best chips and salsa in town. Quick friendly service.” – Steven V.
No. 7
Maya
368 W Bagley Rd., Berea, 440-239-0559
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “Consistently great Mexican food! Always clean and the staff is always friendly. A hidden gem right on Bagley Road.” – Bryan F.
No. 8
Las Americas
25650 Aurora Rd., Bedford Heights, 440-439-9378
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “What a gem find, courtesy of Yelp lists. I love that the setup for Las Americas almost looks secret. You come in through a Latin grocery store, find your way through a door in the back, go through an hallway and finally enter this temple of food. Everything was absolutely delicious. The guacamole is a huge portion as you can see in the picture and is some of the best guacamole I’ve ever had in Northeast Ohio. The ceviche was out of this world, highly recommended. My wife had the shrimp with garlic and mushrooms and I had the tacos, and you don’t need me to emphasize again that they were perfect and delicious, right? Service is great as well, this is a must-try place, you won’t be disappointed.” – J.P. L.
No. 9
El Carnicero
16918 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-226-3415
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “Top notch! The food, tequila, and staff are all excellent. Highly recommend the Carne Asada, Crab Guacamole, and Cantera tequila.” – Brian V.
No. 10
Blue Habanero
6416 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, 216-465-1818
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “Exquisite. Love the interior aesthetic, the theme, the people, and the service was efficient. They put in your order and in no more than, say 15-20 minutes, your food is out and served to you. I tried the margarita flights and enjoyed them. The food was phenomenal and I ordered the tres leches cake at the end. I gasped at the size of it! It was a large slice but it was incredible and I loved it. Great folks and it’s a cool spot with many other places around to check out.” – Jan L.
No. 11
Forage Public House
14600 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-226-2000
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “I’ve never had a bad meal at Forage. They have many vegetarian and vegan options, and all of their food is fresh and high quality. My favorites are the cauliflower tacos, and any of their salads. My son said his burger was one of the best he’s ever had. Even their fries are delicious and you can get delicious condiments to go with the fries.” – Gina D.
No. 12
Hacienda Tapatia
1572 W. 117, Lakewood, 216-862-9893
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “In a pool of average, commercially Mexican restaurants everywhere, this is the place you should swim. Food and friendly service is always on point and the presentation, quality, and preparation is superb. Great tequila and beer selection, nice interior and even the prices are reasonable!” – Greg P.
No. 13
Paladar Latin Kitchen & Rum Bar
28601 Chagrin Blvd., Ste. 900, Woodmere, 216-896-9020
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “Awesome food!!! Great service!!!! The avocado here is just incredible!!!! And the salads are so fresh!!!! My favorite salad is the mango chicken salad. Also the steak and blue cheese salad is incredible, too. The servers are always so friendly and the food is always so fresh, either in the restaurant or for take out.” – Sadie S.
No. 14
Barrio
806 Literary Rd., Cleveland, 216-999-7714
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “Great place for tacos. I love the Jamerita’s (margarita with Jameson’s Whiskey). I like filling in the cards to make your own custom tacos. Choose soft or hard or other shell, choose meat (beef, chicken, sausage) cheese, salsa and toppings for reasonable price. The nachos and smoked salsa put on table is great. Fun atmosphere.” – Joe B.
No. 15
Gran Fiesta Mexican Restaurant
18737 Royalton Rd., Strongsville, 440-638-1114
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “Always good food here. I came for the molcajete tonight. It is served boiling hot and the stone crock keeps it that way. There are many flavors hidden in it, from the sauce to the cactus, good to the last drop. Be ready to eat or share. It is big enough for two. The restaurant is usually busy – be prepared to wait. It is worth it, every dish we have ever had has been delicious.” – Carl S.
No. 16
Villa Y Zapata
8505-09 Madison Ave., Cleveland, 216-961-4369
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “One of the BEST authentic Mexican restaurants in Cleveland. We’ve been going to Villa y Zapata for 20+ years. Everything on the menu is great…but if you can pull yourself away from the traditional fare such as the burritos and tacos and order some of their tasty authentic entrees, you’ll be in for a real treat! Try the Chile Rellenos, Tinga Poblana or the piping-hot fajitas! The margaritas are pretty fantastic as well.” – Dawn B.
No. 17
Camino Taco & Tequila Bar
1300 W. 9th St., Ste. 400, Cleveland, 216-267-7878
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “…Highly recommended. Staff were very friendly, food came out quick and was delicious and appropriately priced. Got three different kinds of tacos and all three were just great. Bummed we don’t live here and get to come regularly.” – Scott O.
No. 18
Chili Peppers
869 E. 185th St., Cleveland, 216-531-2300
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “…we regularly order the same thing and are thoroughly satisfied with our choices — quesadillas and taco salads. The ingredients are fresh and we can order and get tasty food quickly and be on our way. Although the service is fast, I don’t consider this fast food. It is definitely a step above with the fresher ingredients and ability to customize the meal.” – Mary P.
No. 19
Los Arcos Mexican Restaurant Bar and Grill
2175 S. Green Rd., Cleveland, 216-862-6623
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “We went to Los Arcos tonight with our family of 5 and had a great experience!…Great service, great Mexican food and all the right drinks for a Mexican restaurant! Highly recommend!” – Dan P.
No. 20
Ohio City Burrito
1844 W. 25th St., Cleveland, 216-664-0908
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “We stopped in for a bite while visiting the West Side Market. What a great bite to eat! Fresh ingredients, great veggie options and friendly staff.” – Kelly C.
GEAUGA
No. 1
Coyote’s Mexican Grill
8535 Tanglewood Sq., Chagrin Falls, 440-543-0454
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “Family-run business with great food and atmosphere. The staff is beyond kind and attentive and the service is excellent. Nice combination of Tex Mex and Mexican dishes. Full bar that’s always fun. Love this place!” – Ryan B.
No. 2
Ponyboys
506 E. Washington St., Chagrin Falls, 440-247-8226
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “OMG we got the the Aguachile, Dirty Corn, Spicolli, Chillaquilles Torta and the Ribeye. EVERYTHING WAS BEYOND AMAZING!!! My husband and I have found our new favorite spot…” – Shauna B.
No. 3
Burrito Xpress Fresh Mexican Grill
8399 Mayfield Rd., Chesterland, 440-688-4096
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “…the food was delicious! I had a quesadilla and my wife had the avocado tostada. The seasonings were just right for both dishes. The staff was very friendly. We’re already planning our next visit!” – E.L.
LAKE
No. 1
El Señor’s Tacos
170 E. Washington St., La Mexicana Grocery, Painesville, 440-358-1164
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “Another great experience today. I ordered the shredded beef tacos and boy were they delicious. The tacos came on corn tortilla shells. They tasted very fresh as did all the other ingredients. You were given the option to include onions, cilantro, and cheese. I had them all as well as the hot sauce they provide. The beef was very juicy. The hot sauce definitely has some kick to it. I highly recommend these tasty delights.” – Frank Z.
No. 2
El Taco Macho
1613 Mentor Ave., Painesville, 440-350-8226
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “Super tasty…everything! First time here, won’t be our last. Margaritas, chips and salsa, street corn, chicken fajitas and mojada burrito….all were way above! Glad we tried this place tonight…the service was awesome too. Painesville, Ohio has a shining star…Painesville is lucky to have such a gem in its community. Keep up the good work.” – Amy M.
No. 3
Cocos Locos – Willoughby
35535 Euclid Ave., Willoughby, 440-942-6304
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “It was the best restaurant I’ve ever eaten at. They had lovely food, especially the tacos and enchiladas! I 1000% recommend this amazing restaurant. Definitely visiting it again!” – Jamie S.
No. 4
Wild Burrito
125 N. Lake St., Madison, 440-307-9140
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “Visited this spot on a whim while on a road trip around the corner from our hotel, and it was delicious! Ordered the signature burrito and the sampler appetizer which really hit the spot. We loved it so much, we ordered again on the way back home too, the Fish Tacos and eggrolls were also fantastic! Good service, nice establishment, definitely recommend!” – Bryan K.
No. 5
La Mexicana
170 E. Washington St., Painesville, 440-354-3896
Yelp rating: 5 stars
Sample review: “It’s located in a grocery store and has an extensive selection of tacos and burritos. I got al pastor & chicken tacos….just wow!! Authentic street-style tacos with delicious salsas on the side. I make sure to stop by every time I’m driving past Painesville. Highly recommend it!!” – Khyati P.
LORAIN
No. 1
Fiesta Jalapeños
33725 Center Ridge Rd., North Ridgeville, 440-327-1431
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “One of our absolute favorite Mexican restaurants! Fast service even though there is always a wait to get a table! Delicious margaritas!!” – Anita K.
No. 2
Las Cazueles Mexican Restaurant
445 Avon Belden Rd., Avon Lake, 440-930-4910
Yelp rating: 3.5 stars
Sample review: “Good good good. love the food, especially the quesadillas and the chicken fajitas. always warm and savory, meat is juicy and ideal. I love this business and will continue eating here.” – Carlos M.
No. 3
Rico’s Tacos & Tequila
33493 Lake Rd., Avon Lake, 440-961-1050
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “Love this place. Love the interior, reminded us of Mexico. Food was delicious. Service was pretty good. Was on a Sunday, I don’t think they were expecting much. The server was excellent and really made sure we were taken care of. Especially considering one table was with kids and adults and they were the high maintenance one if you catch my drift. We will be back!” – Mike C.
No. 4
Barra Amherst
105 Park Ave., Amherst, 440-370-8060
Yelp rating: 3.5 stars
Sample review: “We had seen this little gem…so we were like it’s the perfect time to try Barra! It also helped that they had lobster tacos and Mexican street corn…We ordered an app (also lobster) and it was yummy! Husband had a bowl for himself and I had a shredded chicken taco and a surf and turf taco with a side of Mexican street corn. Everything was so yummy! Our wait staff was so nice. The chips with the lobster guacamole were delicious. The guacamole was delicious. The tacos, chef’s kiss! If you’re looking for a nice spot for some delicious tacos, slide through Barra! You’ll be glad you did.” – Kelli W.
No. 5
Maguey Mexican Restuarant
1507 Grafton Rd., Elyria, 440-731-8351
Yelp rating: 5 stars
Sample review: “…New place. Clean. The service was good. Food was excellent. Chips and salsa were fresh and chips were warm. We ordered the chicken chimichangas to share and they were perfect! Chicken was moist and had a great flavor to it. No liquor license yet she said hopefully in a couple weeks. Can’t wait to go back and have a full meal and a margarita!” – Terry B.
MEDINA
No. 1
Mucho Buenos
1421 Town Center Blvd., Brunswick, 330-273-6294
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “My friend and I came here last night to catch up and ended up staying for 4.5 hours! We shared a large pitcher of margaritas and cheese dip to start. The pitcher was very good and we each got about 4-5 small glasses out of it. My friend ordered the chimichangas and I ordered the taquitos. Both were cooked to order, served promptly and very good. We also ordered medium raspberry margaritas later in the evening and our server was very kind, checking to make sure we hadn’t had too much to drink before we left. I really appreciate that he showed concern for us without being rude about it. I will definitely come back.” – Rena S.
No. 2
Casa Del Rio
839 High St., Wadsworth, 330-335-4001
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “Casa has been my family’s favorite Mexican staple since they opened in Wadsworth. Love the staff, love the margaritas, love the homemade chips and salsa! :)” – Nick K.
No. 3
El Taco Loco
3329 Center Rd., Brunswick, 330-741-4124
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “Everything was amazing from the service, the margaritas, the chips and salsa. I got a burrito bowl with carnitas and it was delicious! The menu was HUGE and I could not decide what to get. This was similar to typical Mexican fare but much better quality. Can’t wait to return!” – Kayley H.
PORTAGE
No. 1
The Battleground
425 Cherry St., Kent, 330-548-9019
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “Delicious, authentic food for a reasonable price. Their patio/outdoor seating area is really nice and is perfect for a summer night. Their Facebook page is always updated with their food specials / special activities such as cooking and dancing classes, holiday meals, and live music. Their parking lot can get full quickly on busy nights but there is plenty of street parking around the area.” – Liberty S..
No. 2
El Camino
395 N. Aurora Rd., Aurora, 330-995-0135
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “The Barbacoa burrito is phenomenal. Always plenty of chips and salsa, unlike other places that charge a lot of money for a bulk item. Their frozen margaritas are really good, too. Peach is awesome but I look forward to trying the others if I can tear myself away from peach…Very nondescript place, not a lot of flash. Just a great local place. and the take-out is just about as good as eating in the restaurant.” – Chris C.
No. 3
Don Patron
9800 State Rt. 14, Ste. E, Streetsboro, 330-593-9866
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “Consistently good food and drink. Staff is there to do their jobs and as friendly as possible. Chili Colorado is my frequent order, but everything is delicious.” – Sammy S.
SUMMIT
No. 1
Taqueria La Loma
459 Darrow Rd., Akron, 330-784-9300
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “Hands down the best authentic Mexican restaurant in the Akron area! It’s also the best value…The salsa was definitely fresh by the taste of it. I ordered the steak ranchero which is a ribeye steak that comes with beans, rice, and veggies on a sizzling platter with a side of tortillas. This steak was so tender it’s the best steak I’ve had in a while…I will be back very soon!” – Gabby R.
No. 2
Taqueria Tres Amigos
1444 Copley Rd., Akron, 234-334-7021
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “Finally, authentic Mexican food in Akron! Friendly place and high-quality Mexican food that isn’t like the places with the combos. Great Mexican and real food is hard to find in NE OH – I’m glad I’ve found it at Tres Amigos!” – Andy F.
No. 3
The Funky Truckeria
3200 Greenwich Rd., Norton, 330-208-0560
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “I have ordered the Crispy Fried Avocado Taco and the Korean BBQ Pork Belly Taco multiple times. Always delicious… Excellent. Kind, courteous, and professional staff.” – Jeremy B.
No. 4
Paleteria La Fresa Mexican Ice Cream
447 Darrow Rd., Akron, 234-706-2143
Yelp rating: 5 stars
Sample review: “Best burrito in Ohio I EVER had! No joke. And the customer service here is amazing as the food. That definitely adds to the charm!” – Christopher W.
No. 5
Tacos Mexicanos
223 Highland Rd., E. Macedonia, 330-467-9205
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “An always good choice!! Service was very prompt and attentive. The food was as good as always. I did notice a different spice blend or rub on the steak and french fries. The prices went up a bit, but what restaurant hasn’t gone through that during this time…Will definitely return. They always have good food and service!!” – Anthony R.
No. 6
Taqueria El Paso
1811 S. Main St., Akron, 234-788-9135
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “I love this restaurant. The portions are good (and often leave leftovers!) and the taste is solid. The menu has great options (the Torta is amazing) and I haven’t had any of the different meat selections that I didn’t like.” – Eli B.
No. 7
Latino Bar & Grill
3430 S. Arlington Rd., Akron, 330-563-4829
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “Love the food. I am stuck on the Burrito Latino but my husband always tries something new and has never had a bad meal. We eat there at least 3-4 times a month.” – Laurie B.
No. 8
Ranchero’s Taqueria
286 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave., Akron, 330-258-2910
Yelp rating: 4 stars
Sample review: “I love the menudo, which is oddly difficult to find around this area. This place never disappoints!” – Kenneth P.
No. 9
El Papa’s Mexican Bistro
400 Howe Ave., Cuyahoga Falls, 234-571-0036
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “Just go here…… we’ve known it was good but tonight it was great. The food, the service, everything. The cherry on top is when you ask if you should cash out upfront the server says “yes just cash out with mama” you’ll leave feeling warm happy and full.” – Deni Marie F.
No. 10
El Torito Tacos
10683 Ravenna Rd., Twinsburg, 234-212-9088
Yelp rating: 4.5 stars
Sample review: “Yummy went here for the first time on taco Tuesday. They have $1 tacos on Tuesday you get a choice of chicken or beef tacos hard or soft. They were so good and big lots of filling. My wife got the fajitas they were perfectly cooked and had delicious flavor. The restaurant is clean and has great service. Big menu lots of choices. We will definitely go back.” – Lee E.
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