It's no secret that Pensacola is a city for foodies, and not just seafood lovers or food truck enthusiasts. This Coastal city also boasts a wide range of international fare, and its selection of Mexican restaurants does not disappoint. Locals and visitors love these eateries for their vibrant atmospheres, tasty food, and hand-crafted drinks. If you're looking for authentic street tacos, happy hour specials, or highly-ranked restaurants to try, check out these top-rated Mexican restaurants in Pensacola:
1. Cactus Cantina
If you're a fan of happy hour and daily specials, Cactus Cantina in Downtown Pensacola is the place for you! This family-owned restaurant has been around for ten years now, with their downtown location being the newest; this casual Mexican restaurant is known for Taco Tuesday and Happy Hour specials. Some popular specials are $1.99 house margaritas on Tuesdays and plates for under $10. Their regular menu also features a range of staple Mexican dishes such as Taco salads, traditional carne asada and carnitas, frozen drinks, and more!
You'll notice that Cactus Cantina enjoys a prime location on Palafox Street downtown. You won't be too far from the action near bars and shopping on the busiest street in Pensacola, and Cactus Cantina has its own bar where celebrations like Cinco De Mayo and other holidays take place.
Check out their full menu here to learn more.
Photo from Cactus Cantina on Facebook.
2. Gaby's Taqueria
Pensacola has been buzzing about one of downtown?s newest restaurants, Gaby's Taqueria. What began as an idea between friends on vacation has become a popular hangout downtown known for its charming atmosphere and California-style modern Mexican food.
Gaby's selection of California-style dishes includes fish tacos, burrito bowls, vegetarian options, and breakfast tacos. If you're looking for casual, fresh, or light fare, Gaby's Taqueria downtown is a great place to try!
Learn more about Gaby's dishes by viewing their full menu here.
Photo from Gaby's Taqueria.
3.Tacos Rock Gulf Breeze
Tacos Rock in Gulf Breeze is a casual Mexican restaurant in a cozy setting with outdoor dining underneath glowing twinkling lights. This beloved, family-owned Mexican restaurant serves a culinary fusion of dishes inspired by Mexico City, Nogales, and California. They are also well-known for events like their classic Cinco De Mayo celebration or famous Latin Market.
You may need help choosing between the various menu options like specialty nachos, tacos, burritos, tortas, and other authentic Mexican dishes. Tacos Rock also boasts a full bar featuring happy hour margaritas, tequila, and imported and domestic beers. Friendly reminder: save room for something sweet because Tacos Rock also serves authentic desserts like flan, churros, fried ice cream, and sopapillas.
View all menu options here.
Photo from Tacos Rock Gulf Breeze on Facebook.
4. Taqueria El Asador
If you're looking for authentic street-style Mexican food, Taqueria El Asador is the place to go. The restaurant is located in a small strip mall, but don't let its humble appearance fool you; this eatery was ranked #3 on Yelp's "Top 100 Places to Eat in Florida".
The menu at Taqueria El Asador features a variety of tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and more. These delicious dishes are made with fresh ingredients and authentic, Mexican-style recipes; it's easy to see why this restaurant has been ranked one of the best in the state!
You can check out El Asador's full menu here.
Photo from Taqueria El Asador on Facebook.
5. Mariachi's Mexican Grill
Mariachi's Mexican Grill is another hidden gem in Gulf Breeze that offers delicious Tex-Mex and authentic Mexican cuisine in a fun and colorful atmosphere. For over 14 years, Mariachi's has served the Gulf Breeze community dishes like fajitas, chiro-queso, chimichangas, nachos, and more! This is the perfect spot to gather with family and friends for anything from a celebration to a casual dinner.
Known for their unique margaritas, Mariachi's also has a full bar featuring a variety of imported and domestic beers, tequilas, and wine.
View their full menu here.
Photo from Mariachi's Mexican Grill on Facebook.