Discovering the Best Mexican Food in Colorado Springs: A Culinary Journey

Colorado Springs has transformed into a vibrant hub for authentic, high-quality Mexican cuisine. Gone are the days when finding genuine Mexican flavors was a challenge. The city’s growth has brought increased diversity, with a significant rise in the Hispanic and Latino population – a 38% increase between 2010 and 2020. This demographic shift has enriched the local culinary scene, especially for those seeking genuine Latin and Latin-inspired dishes. While concrete data is elusive, the correlation between this demographic growth and the flourishing Mexican food scene is undeniable. It’s now delightfully overwhelming to pinpoint just the “best” Mexican restaurants in Colorado Springs.

To navigate this delicious dilemma, our team of food writers embarked on a flavorful quest. The result is our curated list of 20 top-tier Mexican restaurants in Colorado Springs – our favorite spots where you’re guaranteed a fantastic meal. However, your opinion matters too! Cast your vote in our poll for your personal best, and if your cherished eatery isn’t listed, let us know. With culinary research this enjoyable, we’re always eager to explore further and refine our recommendations.

Here’s our geographically organized guide to the best Mexican Food Colorado Springs has to offer. ¡Salud!

Downtown Colorado Springs Mexican Restaurants

Azada Mexican Grill

There’s something captivating about watching the tortillas being made fresh right before your eyes at Azada Mexican Grill. It’s the perfect prelude to what might just be the perfect breakfast burrito – arguably the best in Colorado Springs. Their build-your-own burritos are a hit throughout the day, and keep an eye out for Monday burrito specials, often under $10. This family-run gem, unassuming yet authentic, has been serving up genuine recipes since 2013. If you’re a fan of chains like Chipotle or Qdoba, it’s time to discover Azada. —Jeremy Jones

16 E. Bijou St. @azadamexicangrillCS

Dos Santos

Dos Santos offers a modern take on Mexican fusion, boasting a bright, urban atmosphere and a bar program that excels in crafting potent, fruit-forward margaritas. Start with their fresh seafood appetizers like poke nachos and ceviche – perfect for sharing – before indulging in their signature Taco of the Month, a seasonal culinary highlight. For hip-hop enthusiasts, Wu-Tang Wednesdays are a must, featuring old-school beats all day long. —Dionne Passacantando

70 E. Moreno Ave. dossantostacos.com

Salsa Latina

For those who fondly remember the cherished family recipes of the former El Taco Rey, Salsa Latina is your answer. This Aguilar family offshoot keeps the legacy alive and flavorful. Beyond excellent menudo and Mexican gumbo, you’ll find their rendition of El Taco Rey’s famous Avocado Pork Burrito. Order it smothered in rich pork green chile sauce, accompanied by rice and beans, for a downtown dining experience that’s both top-notch and budget-friendly, all for under $10. Salsa Latina is also the go-to spot for New Year tamale orders. —Warren Epstein

28 E. Rio Grand St. salsalatina.net

Zocalo

A downtown newcomer but already a sensation, Zocalo has quickly become a favorite in Colorado Springs. Its playful swinging chairs, an indoor VW taco bus, and Tulum-inspired woven décor create a trendy, beachy vibe. The extensive menu, featuring family recipes and expertly crafted cocktails, delivers authentic Mexican flavors at reasonable prices. We highly recommend their steak chimichurri, mushroom and panela cheese tacos, poke nachos, and chile rellenos. Discover more about why Zocalo is a Mexican food favorite in our detailed review: Zocalo: New Restaurant Is Already a Mexican Favorite and see why it earned a spot on our 30 Best Restaurants in Colorado Springs list. —J.J.

418 S. Tejon St. zocalocolorado.com

Central Colorado Springs Mexican Cuisine

El Chapin

Located outside Ranch Foods Direct, El Chapin food truck is a treasure trove of authentic Mexican street food in Colorado Springs. This unassuming spot delivers incredibly flavorful dishes made with high-quality, local proteins from Callicrate Meat, also available inside the adjacent grocery store. Step outside your usual choices and try the lengua tacos – a delicious and texturally interesting experience. Pair them with a refreshing agua fresca and enjoy your meal on their covered patio. —D.P.

1228 E. Fillmore St. elchapinfoodtruck.com

Monica’s Taco Shop

Monica’s Taco Shop may seem understated from the outside, and the interior is equally unpretentious. This is a place where the focus is squarely on the food. The tacos truly speak for themselves. Even when you’re short on time, they whip up a breakfast burrito in an instant. Voted best tacos six years ago by Springs Magazine, Monica’s continues to serve the same outstanding tacos that earned them the accolade. —Steven Hayward

5829 Palmer Park Blvd. monicastacoshop.com

North Side Mexican Restaurants in Colorado Springs

Jarrito Loco

This relaxed Monument restaurant radiates a family-friendly atmosphere, serving homemade recipes passed down from co-owners Angel and Angie Jimenez’s Grandmother Maria. Don’t miss their weekly Tuesday specials and all-day breakfast menu. They also offer a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options. For a taste of their signature flavors, try the Carne Tampiqueña, featuring their mole enchilada alongside carne asada and all the traditional accompaniments. —D.P.

315 W. Highway 105, Monument jarloco.com

Milagro’s Cocina Mexicana

Milagro’s Cocina Mexicana elevates the Mexican dining experience with vibrant art, décor, and an upscale ambiance that celebrates Mexican culture. Their menu showcases the diversity of regional Mexican cuisine. Explore their extensive tequila and mezcal collection with specialty cocktails (the spicy pineapple margarita is a favorite) paired with pickled apertivos or bacon-wrapped prawns. For a memorable entrée, the Cochinita Pibil is highly recommended – a beautifully braised pork shank wrapped in banana leaves, served with habanero jam and frijoles charros. —D.P.

7455 N. Academy Blvd. milagroscocinamx.com

PigLatin Cocina

PigLatin Cocina consistently delights with its Latin fusion, blending Mexican, Colombian, and other South American influences. The flavors and atmosphere are always vibrant and bold. This is the creation of Chef Andres Velez, Aaron Ewton, and their Atlas Group, also behind COATI Uprise and Colorful Colorado at the Garden. They are known for pushing culinary boundaries, one craft cocktail, street taco, and arepa at a time. —J.J.

2825 Dublin Blvd. piglatincocina.com

Salsa Brava Fresh Mexican Grill

Randy Price, CEO of Rocky Mountain Restaurant Group, deserves credit for creating consistently excellent restaurants. Even those that didn’t last, like Slayton’s Barbecue and Mayfield Wine Bar, were exceptional and ahead of their time. Salsa Brava, the original concept, remains a standout: a balanced and ambitious blend of Mexican, Tex-Mex, and Southwestern cuisines. Now located at Powers and Dublin, this bustling restaurant is popular with families and groups, holding its own amongst the many chains in the area. Our favorite dishes include the slow-roasted carnitas and the sour cream and chicken enchiladas. —W.E.

5925 S. Dublin Blvd. salsabravacolorado.com

East Side / Southeast Colorado Springs Mexican Food

Arceo’s

Arceo’s serves generous portions of family-style Mexican food at incredibly affordable prices. It’s undoubtedly the best value in town for classic, delicious Mexican fare. Most dishes, including the fajitas with all the extras, are around $15. The food is consistently delicious, the service is quick, and the portions are huge. A must-try is the Super Molcagete, a hearty Mexican stew featuring a flavorful combination of chicken, shrimp, fish, and beef. —Frank Frey

1605 S. Nevada Ave. arceosrestaurant.com

Maria’s Taco Shop

Maria’s Taco Shop offers a no-frills, authentic taqueria atmosphere. Listen closely, and you’ll hear a constant stream of orders for their famous fish tacos (two for $8). They are remarkably similar to those found on the beaches of Puerto Vallarta – perfectly fried, moist fish with pickled cabbage and a flawless tartar sauce. Everything at Maria’s stands out, even in the heart of Eastside’s Mexican Food Truck Central. It’s also one of the best spots for micheladas, a clamato and beer concoction known for its hangover-curing properties. —W.E.

2812 E. Pikes Peak Ave. mariastacoshop.com

Sofia’s Antojitos

Sofia’s Antojitos brings a fresh and fun vibe to the Colorado Springs dining scene with its unique and eclectic selection of Mexican street food and snacks. While snacks are a highlight, you can certainly enjoy a full meal here. They offer a wide array of tortas, but the specialty quesabirria tacos are a must-try – pure Mexican comfort food. Sofia’s will keep you coming back to explore their creative snacks, such as the decadent Elote Preparado and Esquites corn dishes, and the Vaso Chorreado, a unique ramen-nacho fusion. Don’t miss their fresh juices and creamy Mexican popsicles, paletas. Find the original, brightly muraled location at Galley and Academy, and keep an eye out for their second location opening at 4037 Tutt Blvd. —J.J.

1035 N. Academy Blvd. @sofiasantojitos

Tacos El Amigo

Tacos El Amigo is a well-known favorite among Colorado College students and local food enthusiasts – the place to go, anytime, for any reason. They are home to the best birria tacos in Colorado Springs and the perfect spot for menudo when you need it. My personal favorite is the Hamburguesa Estilio Juares, a hamburger loaded with a hotdog, ham, guacamole, lettuce, tomato, onion, and cheese. It’s a must-try, but come hungry! —S.H.

2416 E. Boulder St. tacoselamigoco.com

Tlaquepaque

Like many exceptional Mexican restaurants, Tlaquepaque is located in an unassuming strip mall on the Eastside. Here, you’ll find consistently outstanding traditional, authentic Mexican food. Tlaquepaque is particularly renowned for their birria tacos, filled with tender and flavorful stewed beef that melts in your mouth. The rich broth served alongside is equally delicious and complements the birria tacos perfectly. The chilaquiles are also excellent, but truly, everything on the menu is a winner. —F.F.

911 N. Murray Blvd. ordertlaquepaque.com

Westside Mexican Restaurants of Colorado Springs

Alfonso’s Mexican Food

It’s 2:00 AM, and while most of Colorado Springs is asleep, Alfonso’s Mexican Food is your late-night haven. Reliably excellent and seemingly always open, it’s a long-standing local institution for those in the know when hunger strikes late. For a true feast, order the Don Poncho – a foot-long burrito packed with everything imaginable, including fries! It’s a challenge for even the heartiest appetites. —S.H.

1022 S. 21st St. alfonsosmexicanfoodcs.com

Crystal Park Cantina

Crystal Park Cantina has been a beloved Manitou Springs fixture since 2011, famous for its fantastic margaritas and stunning views. Their commitment to fresh ingredients shines through in both their food and drinks. The pomegranate margarita is a perfect balance of sweet and tart, pairing wonderfully with their rich, smoky mole. It’s the ideal spot to unwind after a hike up the Manitou Incline. —F.F.

178 Crystal Park Rd. @crystalparkcantina

La Unica

A vibrant explosion of pink, yellow, and blue décor, adorned with colorful lights and parrots, welcomes you to La Unica on Colorado Springs’ Westside. This delightful, authentic sit-down restaurant began as a small taqueria on Platte Avenue, long before many knew what real Mexican food was beyond a crunch wrap. Their chunky, spicy salsa is among the best in town, as is the zesty guacamole. However, the true stars are the complex and savory sauces, especially the mole on the roast pork and the ranchero sauce on the Sonora Style Chicken. Enjoy it all on their patio with a margarita. ¡Ole! —W.E.

3317 W. Colorado Ave. No website. Unofficial Facebook page.

Rudy’s Little Hideaway

Overlooking 8th Street with panoramic mountain views, Rudy’s Little Hideaway is a popular Westside breakfast destination. This family-run spot offers a warm welcome, no matter how busy they are. Arrive early! Order the Huevos Rancheros with a side of bacon, or try the Chorizo Stack. And while I won’t dwell on the margaritas, suffice it to say they are available any time of day and are exceptional. —S.H.

945 S. 8th St. rudyslittlehideaway.com

Mobile Mexican Food in Colorado Springs

Tepex

Tepex is arguably Colorado Springs’ most sought-after food truck. Chef Fernando Trancoso has established himself as a Mexican food authority, influenced by his culinary roots in Santa Fe. Loyal fans regularly track his food truck’s brewery locations to pair local beers with his elevated yet approachable dishes. Don’t miss the beloved Quesabirrias, featuring four tacos and a side of consommé that’s as enjoyable to drink as your chosen brew. —D.P.

Locations vary. Track down his truck soon, as it is currently for sale. tepexbyfernando.com

Your Favorite Mexican Restaurants in Colorado Springs

The community has spoken! We conducted a poll asking for your votes for the Best Mexican Restaurant in Colorado Springs. Voters could select from our recommendations or write in their personal favorites. Most of the winners were from our list, but there were some surprises. Discover the People’s Choice Best Mexican Restaurants winners here.