14 must-try Mexican and Tex-Mex restaurants in Charlotte

Charlotte, North Carolina, is a vibrant city with a diverse food scene that includes a wide range of Mexican and Tex-Mex restaurants. From traditional Mexican cuisine to innovative Tex-Mex fusion, Charlotte’s dining landscape offers something for every palate. This comprehensive guide will take you on a culinary journey through the Queen City, exploring the 14 must-try Mexican and Tex-Mex restaurants that Charlotte has to offer.

1. Rhino Market & Deli

Cuisine: Mexican, Tex-Mex Address: 1320 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202 Website: https://rhinomarketdeli.com/ Phone: (704) 334-6260 Hours: Monday-Saturday, 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Sunday, 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Atmosphere: Casual, family-friendly, and lively, with a bustling market and deli counter.

Must-Try Dishes:

• The “Big Ass Burrito” – A massive burrito stuffed with your choice of meat, beans, cheese, and toppings. It’s a challenge to finish, but the combination of flavors makes it worth the attempt.
• The “Chicken Quesadilla” – A crispy flour tortilla filled with shredded chicken, cheese, and a blend of spices, served with a side of guacamole and sour cream.
• The “Elote” – A traditional Mexican street corn on the cob, grilled and slathered in a creamy, spicy sauce, then rolled in cotija cheese and sprinkled with chili powder.

Signature Cocktail: The “Margarita” – A classic margarita made with tequila, lime juice, and a hint of orange liqueur, served with a salted rim.

Insider Tip: Don’t miss the salsa bar, where you can sample a variety of homemade salsas to complement your meal.

2. El Thrifty Social

Cuisine: Mexican, Craft Cocktails Address: 1141 Central Ave, Charlotte, NC 28205 Website: https://elthriftysocial.com/ Phone: (704) 595-7788 Hours: Monday-Thursday, 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Friday-Saturday, 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM; Sunday, 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Atmosphere: Industrial-chic with a lively bar scene, perfect for happy hour or late-night dining.

Must-Try Dishes:

• The “Taco el Pastor” – Slow-roasted pork marinated in a blend of spices, pineapple, and guajillo chiles, served on a corn tortilla with pineapple salsa and cilantro-lime crema.
• The “Chiles Rellenos” – Poblano peppers stuffed with a blend of cheeses, battered, and fried, served with a creamy avocado sauce.
• The “Elote” – A traditional Mexican street corn on the cob, grilled and slathered in a creamy, spicy sauce, then rolled in cotija cheese and sprinkled with chili powder.

Signature Cocktail: The “Spicy Margarita” – A margarita with a kick, made with tequila, lime juice, and a blend of spicy peppers.

Insider Tip: Check out their happy hour specials, which include discounted tacos and drinks from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM Monday-Friday.

3. The Stanley

Cuisine: Mexican, Craft Cocktails Address: 1429 E 6th St, Charlotte, NC 28204 Website: https://thestanleync.com/ Phone: (704) 333-9191 Hours: Monday-Thursday, 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Friday-Saturday, 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM; Sunday, 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Atmosphere: Industrial-chic with a lively bar scene, perfect for happy hour or late-night dining.

Must-Try Dishes:

• The “Chiles Rellenos” – Poblano peppers stuffed with a blend of cheeses, battered, and fried, served with a creamy avocado sauce.
• The “Tacos de Carne Asada” – Grilled skirt steak served on corn tortillas with avocado, cilantro-lime crema, and a side of charro beans.
• The “Elote” – A traditional Mexican street corn on the cob, grilled and slathered in a creamy, spicy sauce, then rolled in cotija cheese and sprinkled with chili powder.

Signature Cocktail: The “Spicy Margarita” – A margarita with a kick, made with tequila, lime juice, and a blend of spicy peppers.

Insider Tip: The Stanley is also known for its impressive selection of tequilas and mezcals, so don’t hesitate to ask your server for a recommendation.

4. Bulla Gastro Bar

Cuisine: Mexican, Small Plates, Craft Cocktails Address: 3312 N Davidson St, Charlotte, NC 28205 Website: https://bullagastrobar.com/ Phone: (704) 910-8650 Hours: Monday-Thursday, 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Friday-Saturday, 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM; Sunday, 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Atmosphere: Industrial-chic with a lively bar scene, perfect for happy hour or late-night dining.

Must-Try Dishes:

• The “Tacos al Pastor” – Corn tortillas topped with slow-roasted pork, pineapple salsa, and cilantro-lime crema.
• The “Chiles Rellenos” – Poblano peppers stuffed with a blend of cheeses, battered, and fried, served with a creamy avocado sauce.
• The “Elote” – A traditional Mexican street corn on the cob, grilled and slathered in a creamy, spicy sauce, then rolled in cotija cheese and sprinkled with chili powder.

Signature Cocktail: The “Bulla Margarita” – A margarita made with tequila, lime juice, and a blend of fresh fruit juices.

Insider Tip: Bulla Gastro Bar is known for its innovative take on Mexican street food, so don’t be afraid to try something new.

5. Superica

Cuisine: Mexican, Seafood Address: 115 E 5th St, Charlotte, NC 28202 Website: https://superica.com/ Phone: (704) 333-9200 Hours: Monday-Thursday, 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Friday-Saturday, 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Sunday, 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Atmosphere: Upscale with a lively bar scene, perfect for happy hour or special occasions.

Must-Try Dishes:

• The “Ceviche” – A refreshing mix of shrimp, scallops, and fish marinated in lime juice, served with avocado, tomato, and cilantro.
• The “Tacos de Pescado” – Grilled fish tacos served on corn tortillas with a creamy avocado sauce and a side of black beans.
• The “Elote” – A traditional Mexican street corn on the cob, grilled and slathered in a creamy, spicy sauce, then rolled in cotija cheese and sprinkled with chili powder.

Signature Cocktail: The “Classic Margarita” – A classic margarita made with tequila, lime juice, and a hint of orange liqueur, served with a salted rim.

Insider Tip: Superica is known for its impressive selection of seafood dishes, so be sure to check out their specials board for the freshest catches of the day.

6. La Caña

Cuisine: Mexican, Tequila Bar Address: 13835 Ballantyne Corners Pk, Charlotte, NC 28277 Website: https://lacanacharlotte.com/ Phone: (704) 544-5200 Hours: Monday-Thursday, 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Friday-Saturday, 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Sunday, 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Atmosphere: Upscale with a lively bar scene, perfect for happy hour or special occasions.

Must-Try Dishes:

• The “Tacos de Carne Asada” – Grilled skirt steak served on corn tortillas with avocado, cilantro-lime crema, and a side of charro beans.
• The “Chiles Rellenos” – Poblano peppers stuffed with a blend of cheeses, battered, and fried, served with a creamy avocado sauce.
• The “Elote” – A traditional Mexican street corn on the cob, grilled and slathered in a creamy, spicy sauce, then rolled in cotija cheese and sprinkled with chili powder.

Signature Cocktail: The “La Caña Margarita” – A margarita made with tequila, lime juice, and a blend of fresh fruit juices, served with a salted rim.

Insider Tip: La Caña is known for its impressive selection of tequilas and mezcals, so don’t hesitate to ask your server for a recommendation.

7. Del Frisco’s

Cuisine: Tex-Mex Address: Multiple locations in Charlotte Website: https://del-friscos.com/ Phone: Varies by location Hours: Varies by location

Atmosphere: Casual with a lively bar scene, perfect for family meals or happy hour.

Must-Try Dishes:

• The “Chicken Fried Steak” – A crispy chicken breast topped with a creamy jalapeño sauce, served with a side of mashed potatoes.
• The “Fajita Platter” – A sizzling platter of grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp served with a side of guacamole, sour cream, and tortillas.
• The “Elote” – A traditional Mexican street corn on the cob, grilled and slathered in a creamy, spicy sauce, then rolled in cotija cheese and sprinkled with chili powder.

Signature Cocktail: The “Frozen Margarita” – A frozen margarita made with tequila, lime juice, and a hint of orange liqueur.

Insider Tip: Del Frisco’s is known for its consistent menu and friendly service, making it a great option for families with picky eaters.

8. The Cowfish

Cuisine: Tex-Mex, Seafood Address: 251 E 6th St, Charlotte, NC 28202 Website: https://thecowfish.com/ Phone: (704) 332-3222 Hours: Monday-Thursday, 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Friday-Saturday, 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM; Sunday, 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Atmosphere: Industrial-chic with a lively bar scene, perfect for happy hour or late-night dining.

Must-Try Dishes:

• The “Baja Fish Tacos” – Crispy fried fish served on corn tortillas with cabbage, cilantro-lime crema, and a side of black beans.
• The “Chicken Fried Steak” – A crispy chicken breast topped with a creamy jalapeño sauce, served with a side of mashed potatoes.
• The “Elote” – A traditional Mexican street corn on the cob, grilled and slathered in a creamy, spicy sauce, then rolled in cotija cheese and sprinkled with chili powder.

Signature Cocktail: The “Margarita” – A classic margarita made with tequila, lime juice, and a hint of orange liqueur, served with a salted rim.

Insider Tip: The Cowfish is known for its impressive selection of craft beers, so be sure to check out their draft list.

9. Viva Chicken

Cuisine: Mexican, Chicken Address: Multiple locations in Charlotte Website: https://vivachicken.com/ Phone: Varies by location Hours: Varies by location

Atmosphere: Casual with a fast-casual feel, perfect for a quick lunch or takeout.

Must-Try Dishes:

• The “Pollo Borracho” – A whole chicken marinated in a blend of spices, grilled, and served with a side of rice and beans.
• The “Chicken Quesadilla” – A crispy flour tortilla filled with shredded chicken, cheese, and a blend of spices, served with a side of guacamole and sour cream.
• The “Elote” – A traditional Mexican street corn on the cob, grilled and slathered in a creamy, spicy sauce, then rolled in cotija cheese and sprinkled with chili powder.

Signature Drink: The “Horchata” – A sweet, creamy drink made from rice, cinnamon, and vanilla, served cold.

Insider Tip: Viva Chicken is known for its quick service and affordable prices, making it a great option for budget-conscious diners.

10. The Capital Grille

Cuisine: Steakhouse, Tex-Mex Address: Multiple locations in Charlotte Website: https://www.thecapitalgrille.com/ Phone: Varies by location Hours: Varies by location

Atmosphere: Upscale with a lively bar scene, perfect for special occasions or business dinners.

Must-Try Dishes:

• The “Texas de Burgo” – A 14-ounce ribeye steak seasoned with a blend of spices and grilled to perfection, served with a side of mashed potatoes.
• The “Chicken Fried Steak” – A crispy chicken breast topped with a creamy jalapeño sauce, served with a side of mashed potatoes.
• The “Elote” – A traditional Mexican street corn on the cob, grilled and slathered in a creamy, spicy sauce, then rolled in cotija cheese and sprinkled with chili powder.

Signature Cocktail: The “Classic Margarita” – A classic margarita made with tequila, lime juice, and a hint of orange liqueur, served with a salted rim.

Insider Tip: The Capital Grille is known for its impressive selection of steaks and seafood, so be sure to check out their specials board.

11. Zada Jane’s

Cuisine: Mexican, Vegetarian/Vegan Address: 1601 Central Ave, Charlotte, NC 28205 Website: https://zadajanes.com/ Phone: (704) 334-6444 Hours: Monday-Thursday, 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Friday-Saturday, 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Sunday, 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Atmosphere: Casual with a laid-back, bohemian vibe, perfect for vegan and vegetarian diners.

Must-Try Dishes:

• The “Vegan Tacos” – Crispy corn tortillas filled with a blend of vegetables, avocado, and cashew crema, topped with cilantro and lime.
• The “Chiles Rellenos” – Poblano peppers stuffed with a blend of cheeses, battered, and fried, served with a creamy avocado sauce.
• The “Elote” – A traditional Mexican street corn on the cob, grilled and slathered in a creamy, spicy sauce, then rolled in cotija cheese and sprinkled with chili powder.

Signature Cocktail: The “Margarita” – A classic margarita made with tequila, lime juice, and a hint of orange liqueur, served with a salted rim.

Insider Tip: Zada Jane’s is known for its innovative take on Mexican street food, with a focus on plant-based ingredients.

12. The Stanley Beer Hall & Garden

Cuisine: German, Mexican, Craft Beer Address: 1429 E 6th St, Charlotte, NC 28204, Phone: (704) 333-9191 Hours: Monday-Thursday, 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Friday-Saturday, 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM; Sunday, 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Atmosphere: Industrial-chic with a lively beer hall scene, perfect for happy hour or late-night dining.

Must-Try Dishes:

• The “Tacos al Pastor” – Corn tortillas topped with slow-roasted pork, pineapple salsa, and cilantro-lime crema.
• The “Chiles Rellenos” – Poblano peppers stuffed with a blend of cheeses, battered, and fried, served with a creamy avocado sauce.
• The “Elote” – A traditional Mexican street corn on the cob, grilled and slathered in a creamy, spicy sauce, then rolled in cotija cheese and sprinkled with chili powder.

Signature Cocktail: The “Spicy Margarita” – A margarita with a kick, made with tequila, lime juice, and a blend of spicy peppers.

Insider Tip: The Stanley Beer Hall & Garden is known for its impressive selection of craft beers, so be sure to check out their draft list.

13. The Capital Grille – Uptown

Cuisine: Steakhouse, Tex-Mex Address: 804 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28206
Phone: (704) 370-1234 Hours: Monday-Thursday, 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Friday-Saturday, 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Sunday, 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Atmosphere: Upscale with a lively bar scene, perfect for happy hour or special occasions.

Must-Try Dishes:

• The “Texas de Burgo” – A 14-ounce ribeye steak seasoned with a blend of spices and grilled to perfection, served with a side of mashed potatoes.
• The “Chicken Fried Steak” – A crispy chicken breast topped with a creamy jalapeño sauce, served with a side of mashed potatoes.
• The “Elote” – A traditional Mexican street corn on the cob, grilled and slathered in a creamy, spicy sauce, then rolled in cotija cheese and sprinkled with chili powder.

Signature Cocktail: The “Classic Margarita” – A classic margarita made with tequila, lime juice, and a hint of orange liqueur, served with a salted rim.

Insider Tip: The Capital Grille – Uptown is known for its impressive selection of steaks and seafood, so be sure to check out their specials board.

14. The Capital Grille – SouthPark

Cuisine: Steakhouse, Tex-Mex Address: 4201 Sharon Rd, Charlotte, NC 28211 Website: hecapitalgrille.com Phone: (704) 556-2260 Hours: Monday-Thursday, 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Friday-Saturday, 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Sunday, 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Atmosphere: Upscale with a lively bar scene, perfect for happy hour or special occasions.

Must-Try Dishes:

• The “Texas de Burgo” – A 14-ounce ribeye steak seasoned with a blend of spices and grilled to perfection, served with a side of mashed potatoes.
• The “Chicken Fried Steak” – A crispy chicken breast topped with a creamy jalapeño sauce, served with a side of mashed potatoes.
• The “Elote” – A traditional Mexican street corn on the cob, grilled and slathered in a creamy, spicy sauce, then rolled in cotija cheese and sprinkled with chili powder.

Signature Cocktail: The “Classic Margarita” – A classic margarita made with tequila, lime juice, and a hint of orange liqueur, served with a salted rim.

Insider Tip: The Capital Grille – SouthPark is known for its impressive selection of steaks and seafood, so be sure to check out their specials board.

Conclusion

Charlotte’s Mexican and Tex-Mex restaurant scene offers a diverse range of flavors, styles, and atmospheres, ensuring there’s something for every palate. From traditional Mexican cuisine to innovative Tex-Mex fusion, these 14 must-try restaurants showcase the best of Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine in the Queen City. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual bite, a lively happy hour, or a special occasion, these restaurants have you covered. So, gather your friends and family, and embark on a culinary journey through Charlotte’s vibrant Mexican and Tex-Mex scene. ¡Buen provecho!