Where to find authentic Mexican food in Montréal

Restaurants Mexico Gastronomy
La Toxica
Jason Lee

Jason Lee

Taquerias and cervecerias, fast casual to fine dining, Montréal’s Mexican restaurant scene goes beyond the taco to celebrate regional variations. If you’re up for exploring the intricacies of what Mexican cuisine has to offer, here are some places you need to try. 

Alma restaurant

Alma

Located in Outremont, Alma’s menu focuses on Mexican heritage corn, Catalan wine and local Québec ingredients. Enjoy their “carte blanche” tasting menu created by Chef Juan Lopez Luna, a nine-course dining experience inspired by the concept of “mar y montaña," where the “mountains meet the sea.” Or, check out their taco pop-ups in their back alley in the summer and fall. 

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Caifan, tacos

Caifan

Caifan is inspired by an expression used during American prohibition by a group of Mexicans who congregated at small dive bars to enjoy tequila and food – “he’s fine!” Check out their five-course tasting or à la carte menu and discover this spot’s contemporary take on Mexico’s pre-Hispanic culture and cuisine. 

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La Catrina

La Catrina

This neighbourhood taqueria is a favourite spot for cocktails and bites. Their menu blends traditional Mexican cooking methods with fresh, locally sourced ingredients from Quebec farmers. Don’t miss out of their impressive collection of privately imported tequila and mezcal.

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La Toxica

La Toxica

This wildly popular taqueria has taken the city by storm. Their colorful ambiance and delicious tacos make every visit an experience to remember. This spot is known for their variety of authentic tacos and giant quesadillas as well as jumping on the viral Birria Ramen - slow cooked braised beef served in instant ramen instead of a taco shell!

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La Capital Tacos

La Capital is a local taco shop nestled amongst Chinese restaurants and souvenir shops in the heart of Chinatown. Discover a selection of classic tacos as well as their cocktail menu featuring Mezcal and Tequila.

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El Meson

The husband and wife duo of Victor Lopez and Elena Garcia, welcome you to experience the recipes inspired by their native Mexico. Located along the iconic Lachine Canal in an old brick house, El Meson serves of secret family recipes. Try their signature Nopalitos con carne (cactus with beef), Pescados Yucatan and Pechuga con mole as you enjoy the views from two terraces. 

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Tacos Frida

Tacos Frida

Come discover the tastes and flavors of Oaxaca through the family recipes of Frida! From 13 kinds of tacos 11 kinds of burritos, 12 options of plates and bowls, this taco oasis in the Southwest will surely satiate all palates – including vegetarians! 

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Carlota Boulangerie

Carlota Boulangerie is a passion project started by Mariana Martin. Fueled by her love of baking, she wanted to open a bakery where she would be able to share her creations with others. What started as a pre-sale order only bakery is now open to the general public where her talent is epitomized in her selection of goodies like classic concha to rollo de guayaba.

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El Rey del Taco

The name literally translates to “The King of Taco” and you can guess what they specialize in. This Jean-Talon Market taco outpost offers a staggering menu consisting of Mexican breakfast plates, grilled meats and seafood, soups, quesadillas, tortas (sandwiches) and of course tacos. They sell all their homemade sauces including imported Mexican items and meat by the pound.   

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La Selva

La Selva has been a local go-to for decades. This cozy neighbourhood restaurant located in the heart of the Plateau is a favourite destination for their daily table d’hôte specials that showcase the variety of regional Mexican cuisine. This spot also serves weekend brunch. Enjoy classic chilaquiles topped with your choice of meat, ceviches and a variety of ranchero dishes all served with $5 mimosas! 

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Escondite West Island

Escondite

This homegrown taqueria also calls itself as a “cervecería de barrio” or neighbourhood bar. They’ve got five locations across the city slinging delicious tacos and nachos and tapas-style bites that include vegetarian options. Great creative cocktail menu and imported Mexican sodas as well. 

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La Tamalera

This spot bills itself as “Mexican street food, but haute cuisine”. Located in the Mile End, this spot serves up classic tacos as well as tamales, tortas and various plates that include ceviche, chilaquiles and barbacoa all served with homemade corn tortillas. Check out their weekend brunch service that features more than just huevos!

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Mojito & Margarita

Like the name suggested Mojito & Margarita is a mix of Mexican and Cuban cuisine. Chef Martin is Mexican and prepares the food; Lisandra is Cuban and she prepares the cocktails! There is no shortage of tantalizing options for a memorable meal. Check out their brunch and lunch options as well as their special table d’hôte for two on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

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Jason Lee

Jason Lee

Jason is a seasoned food writer and blogger with over 18 years of culinary adventures in Montréal. He’s a master at uncovering the city's hidden gems and transforming meals into captivating stories. Join him as he continues to explore and share Montréal’s vibrant food scene. 

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