Grand Rapids is a wonderful city to experience delectable cuisine from a plethora of different cultures. With restaurants around every corner, there’s always something new. This week we’re dipping our toes into the world of Mexican food and talking about Grand Rapids favorite restaurants that keep us coming back for more!
Additionally, from last weeks food of choice, Mexican restaurants, I find, are always fun, energetic and extremely inviting. The vibrant colors mixed with traditional Mexican decor and a playlist that makes you want to dance is the reason I enjoy Mexican restaurants so much. There’s something about the atmosphere that radiates an everlasting happiness and brings out laughter and smiles of all the guests. If you’re looking for a fun night filled with tasty bites, choose one of these Grand Rapids Mexican restaurants we think are worth mentioning.
Donkey Taqueria $
You haven’t experienced the Grand Rapids food scene until you’ve tried Donkey Taqueria. This one-of-a-kind Mexican street food restaurant will leave your taste buds soaring with their tacos, appetizers, tortas and tostadas and if you’re a lover of tequila, you’ve come to the perfect place. Well-known for their selection of over 50 choices of tequila, Donkey’s mission is to make delicious street food with only the highest quality ingredients and bring people together to have a great time.
Luna $$
Modern industrial with hints of traditional Mexican style are what make Luna a place to remember. When it comes to their food, Luna is proudly committed to supporting local suppliers whenever possible to strengthen West Michigan’s local economy and ensure the ingredients used are only the best. Their menu offers a large variety of vibrant food and drink that reflects the lively atmosphere of Luna. From quesadillas to tamales, and eclectic cocktails, this hip Mexican restaurant adds another spice to Grand Rapids.
El Arriero Restaurante Mexicano $$
Serving authentic and traditional Mexican food, El Arriero is one of Grand Rapids favorites! In my opinion, El Arriero has one of the biggest selections of Mexican foods. There is always something for everyone to enjoy and they ensure every dish is made fresh with quality ingredients. From traditional Mexican cuisine, they also offer a plethora of vegetarian options and their bar serves delicious beverages to make your meal complete.
Tacos el Cuñado $
Known for their tacos, Tacos el Cuñado also offers tamales, quesadillas and tortas. Multiple locations are spread across the Grand Rapids area, inviting customers all around the city to experience how tasty Mexican food is. One of their most popular sites is at the Downtown Market where, along with their food, sell Latin American grocery items and a salsa bar. Mario Cascante and Hector Lopez, the owners of Tacos el Cuñado, source ingredients locally and are determined to share their authentic flavor with Grand Rapids.
Maggie’s Kitchen $
If you’ve lived in Grand Rapids for a long time, you’ll know Maggie’s Kitchen is the place to go for truly authentic Mexican food. By proof of customers’ reviews, citizens of Grand Rapids have named Maggie’s the best in the city. This small family-owned business has been running for over 30 years and customers are devoted to this restaurant. They love the homey environment Maggie has created along with the heaping piles of food she serves her guests. Specials run all throughout the week so make sure to stop in and taste what Mexican food is all about.
Cantina Mexican Grill $$
Started back in 1976, Cantina Mexican Grill was founded by Dick Leonard who loved all that Mexico had to offer— the people, the culture, the food. Still family-owned today and now over 40 years old, the Cantina obviously knows how to do Mexican food right with a large menu of traditional dishes alongside the families complimentary homemade chips and salsa. The laid back environment of the restaurant is great for meeting with friends or going out with family. Everyone’s welcome at Cantina Mexican Grill located at the corner of Paris Avenue and 28th Street.
MeXo Tequila & Mezcal Bar and Restaurant $$$
We’re turning gears for this next restaurant. Instead of the street-style Mexican food we’ve been covering, MeXo is turning up the class. Coming in at a higher price range, this restaurant’s food is worth it with top quality dishes made by Chef Oscar Moreno, a native of Puerto Vallarta, and a dining experience like no other. Guests can dine in MeXo’s arty, modern space while enjoying the eclectic food as they sip on margaritas, wine or a mimosa made from the bar.
These are only a sliver of the Mexican restaurants here in Grand Rapids. The city has so much to offer, and that’s why next week you should stay tuned because we’re going to talk about everything Chinese food!