This article also appeared in the September/October 2016 edition of Epicurean Charlotte magazine.
It’s official: Mexican food is having a moment. #TacoTuesday has entered the lexicon, we all can breathe a sigh of relief knowing avocados that are the “good kind” of fat, and absolutely nothing beats a mid-week margarita. Here’s our roundup of the current best spots in your neighborhood to dine on delicious Mexican cuisine. Looking for a quick spot to grab tacos before heading back to work? A place to share a pitcher of margaritas with friends? We’ve got you covered!
The New Kid on the Block: Babalu Tapas and Tacos (Dilworth)
Just when you thought East Boulevard’s restaurant scene could not get any more relevant, there is, as they say at Babalu, “a new guac on the block.” Babalu, located in the former Cantina 1511 location, is a tacos and tapas joint located in several Southeastern cities, and now Charlotte is getting in on the party. Babalu’s distinction from other Mexican joints is that they offer more than just tacos; their menu pulls from Cuban, Spanish and Southern cuisine, so don’t be afraid to come here and order a Baba Burger, a Torta Cubano or even the Creole Shrimp and Grits.
If you are looking for more typical Mexican fare, Babalu adeptly serves up blue corn tortilla tacos, salsa and all of the usual suspects.
Let’s talk guac: It would be a crime to come here and not get the tableside guacamole. Want to add jalapeños and bacon? Oh, do you ever. Once you’ve tried bacon in your guacamole, you’ll know that every other guacamole in your life has been missing a critical element. This combination just works, plain and simple.
Don’t skip the... desserts. From Mexican fudge to Pineapple Rum Empanadas served with ice cream from the soon-to-open Golden Cow Creamery, you’ll definitely want to save room for dessert.
Tip: The margaritas here are of the super sweet variety, so maybe go for beer or wine if that’s not your thing.
Best Choice for a Night Out with Friends: Bakersfield (Dilworth)
Don’t deny it, when you’re driving down East Boulevard, you’ve noticed the party that’s happening inside of Bakersfield. On nice days, their windows are open wide, you hear great music coming from inside and can see all of the happy, tipsy people enjoying their chips and salsa. If you’ve ever joined said party, you know that Bakersfield is more than just a pretty face. Their menu is focused and authentic, the tacos are well-seasoned, and they have a wide selection of beers on tap if you aren’t feeling tequila.
Let’s talk guac: While the guacamole isn’t made tableside at Bakersfield, it’s still a showstopper. The spices are bold and the texture is perfect—no overly puréed avocados here!
Don’t skip the... Queso dip. You can add black beans, chorizo or house-pickled jalapeños. Where most queso dips are the equivalent of heated cheese whiz, this version is real, melty cheese with a spicy kick.
Tips: The bartenders are mixing up wonderfully strong margaritas that will cure what ails you—Taco Tuesday or any other day of the week.
Best Choice for a Mid-week Lunch: Anita’s Mexican Grill (Yorkmont/Airport Area)
Don’t let Anita’s exterior fool you. Yes, it shares a parking lot with a gas station. No, you can’t get margaritas here, and it’s not exactly designed for lingering over your chips and salsa. What you can get, however, is authentic and super fresh Mexican food. The tortillas are handmade, and they serve their tacos simply, with crisp onions and an abundance of fresh cilantro.
The service is quick and friendly, and the interior, while very clean, is stark. You don’t come here for the ambiance—you come (and stay) for the tasty Mexican fare at reasonable prices.
Their portions aren’t lacking, either. Your tacos will come with enough meat inside to feed a family of three—or a hungry nurse or construction worker on their lunch break. Anita’s closes early (5:00 pm), but they open early as well, if you have a hankering for Chorizo con Huevos.
Let’s talk guac: The guacamole at Anita’s is good, but simple—no fancy mix-ins here. It’s also a bit on the smooth side, if you prefer your guacamole chunky (guilty as charged).
Don’t skip the... Chorizo queso dip.
Tip: Try to come at an off time if possible, as the line can get pretty intense during peak lunch hours.
Best Choice for a Late Night Snack: Vida Vida (Uptown)
Vida Vida is the more casual cousin of its sister restaurant, Vida, both located in the Epicentre. Vida Vida occupies prime real estate from their corner spot, which looks out onto Trade and College Streets and all the happenings of the Epicentre. While Vida Vida might not be the most authentic option for Mexican in the Queen City, the menu certainly offers some fun and tasty options, like the Mexican Tots, which are tater tots served in the style of nachos, with chipotle queso, crema, pico de gallo and jalapeños.
The tacos at Vida Vida run the gamut, from Mexican (carnitas and red chile chicken) to the decidedly not (Philly Cheesesteak, Asian Shrimp). Don’t expect to be blown away by the food here, but you can certainly expect flavorful tacos with a fun vibe. This is easily the best option for reasonably-priced food in the Epicentre, but keep in mind that a big draw here is the atmosphere. This includes some of the best people watching in Uptown, great music and a lively bar area—including a massive Fishbowl Margarita that’s perfect for sharing with friends.
Let’s talk guac: Their guacamole is a little on the bland side. Stick with the salsa or queso.
Don’t skip the... Spicy Jalapeño Margarita.
Tip: Vida Vida is open late, so come here for fuel before heading out on the town, or before heading home.
Best Place for a Meal with the Family: Azteca (Woodlawn Area)
Azteca serves up authentic Mexican cuisine in more than generous portions, and don’t forget the fabulously strong margaritas. But I know what you’re thinking, isn’t that the restaurant attached to the Days Inn hotel? Yes, yes it is, and apparently, that’s just fine, because the food here is solid and the people of Charlotte know it—this location is always bustling. The service is fast and polite, and the atmosphere is authentic enough to make you forget you’re in a restaurant attached to a hotel.
Azteca’s menu is huge, but don’t get overwhelmed—it’s all tasty. Staff and patron favorites include Pollo con Crema, Chile Relleno and the Fajitas.
Let’s talk guac: The guacamole is made tableside and it’s to die for. The seasonings and mix-ins are added with a liberal hand, which is a great thing. If you’re not into spice, you can, of course, customize the guac to your liking, so you can’t really go wrong. Make sure to tip your hard working guacamole mixologist!
Don’t skip the... Arroz con Pollo.
Tip: Azteca is great if you’re looking for bang for your buck. Come hungry and still be prepared to take home leftovers.
Best Mexican Fusion: Sabor Latin Street Grille (Elizabeth)
Sabor is brought to you by the owners of Three Amigos, another great Mexican joint located in Plaza Midwood. Hence the name, Sabor offers more variety due to being Latin versus simply Mexican, but it’s far and away one of the best spots in Charlotte to grab a taco or burrito. Standout Latin options include the arepas and empanadas. Another favorite? The Elote Loco—corn on the cob lightly-coated with mayo, cotija cheese and sprinkled with chili powder.
Sabor also offers a salsa bar, with options ranging from verde to super spicy roja, which you can check out while you wait. If you go during the lunch rush, you’ll be waiting. Sabor is no longer a well-kept secret, and the owners are responding by expanding all around the city, including a newly-opened spot in NoDa.
Let’s talk guac: The avocado flavor shines with simple seasonings—a must try.
Don’t skip the... Dominican Nachos. Yucca fries are covered in shredded chicken, sautéed cabbage, pico de gallo, cotija cheese and rosada sauce.
Tip: The ultimate #TacoTuesday is at Sabor, featuring $1 tacos all day long.