Top restaurants list
10 Best Mexican Restaurants In Queens
- 10 restaurants
- New York City, New York
- Updated February 9, 2026
The 10 best Mexican restaurants in Queens include Casa Enrique, Ay Güey, Mayahuel, El Mero Mero, Fresco’s Grand Cantina, de Mole, Amor Loco, Cancun Cafe, Mojo, and Tequila Sunrise. Mexican cuisine in New York City's most diverse borough is renowned for its authentic regional flavors, particularly Oaxacan and Puebla-style dishes, as well as its vibrant food truck culture.
Majority of the Mexican restaurants in Queens are situated in Long Island, Astoria, and Jackson Heights. The types of Mexican restaurants in Queens range from fine dining restaurants, taco shops, and bustling eateries. The cost of a meal in a Mexican eatery in Queens ranges from $10 and $70 per person.
Casa Enrique stands as the top choice for the best Mexican food in Queens, recognized for its authentic regional cuisine, Michelin star, and elegant setting. For fast-casual Mexican fare, Ay Güey is a go-to dining destination, well-known for its authentic street tacos, while de Mole earns recognition for its traditional regional dishes. Mayahuel offers vegan options like plant-based tacos, while Casa Enrique provides gluten-free selections such as grilled items and corn-based dishes.
The top Mexican restaurants in Queens are listed below.
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1
Casa Enrique is a Michelin-starred Mexican restaurant in Long Island City, offering refined, contemporary Mexican dining with a focus on regional cuisine from Chiapas, Mexico. The restaurant presents authentic dishes prepared with fresh ingredients in an elegant and inviting setting.- Item Prices
- 80
- Average Item Price
- $15.60
Casa Enrique Menu PricesMore about Casa Enrique
Type of Restaurant:
Fine Dining
Type of Food:
Regional Mexican, Modern Mexican
Signature Dishes:
GuacamoleDe Pollo en Salsa Verde EnchiladasTacos de Carne AsadaDe Pollo con Mole de Piaxtla Enchiladas
Location:
5-48 49th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101, United States
Special Feature:
The restaurant holds one Michelin star and is known for its authentic regional Mexican cuisine, particularly from Chiapas, and its refined presentation.
What Makes It Special:
Casa Enrique delivers an unparalleled high-end Mexican dining experience with authentic regional dishes and elegant presentation, redefining Mexican fine dining in Queens.
What Sets It Apart:
Its Michelin star and specific focus on the cuisine of Chiapas, Mexico, distinguish it as a top culinary destination offering a unique regional taste.
Operating Hours:
Monday – Friday: 5:00 PM – 10:15 PMSaturday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Price:
$50 to $100 per person
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2
Mayahuel is a modern Mexican restaurant in Astoria, offering creative dishes and craft cocktails in a vibrant setting. The restaurant provides a lively atmosphere with a focus on contemporary Mexican cuisine and mezcal.- Item Prices
- 48
- Average Item Price
- $13.71
Mayahuel Menu PricesMore about Mayahuel
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining (Upscale Casual)
Type of Food:
Modern Mexican, Regional Mexican
Signature Dishes:
Enchiladas SuizasGobernado De CamaronTaco Carne AsadaNachos
Location:
3207 34th Ave, Queens, NY 11106, United States
Special Feature:
The restaurant features a stylish interior with colorful decor and a bustling bar, creating a popular spot for social gatherings with an extensive mezcal selection.
What Makes It Special:
Mayahuel is known for its energetic ambiance, creative cocktails, and its modern take on Mexican comfort food, making it a popular dining destination.
What Sets It Apart:
Its blend of lively atmosphere with innovative Mexican dishes and a strong mezcal program distinguishes it from more traditional or quiet Mexican restaurants.
Operating Hours:
Monday – Friday: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PMSaturday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Price:
$30 to $50 per person
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3
El Mero Mero is a casual Mexican eatery in Queens, offering a menu of traditional Mexican dishes and Tex-Mex favorites. The restaurant provides a straightforward dining experience with classic flavors in a welcoming setting.- Item Prices
- 153
- Average Item Price
- $12.37
El Mero Mero Menu PricesMore about El Mero Mero
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Traditional Mexican, Tex-Mex
Signature Dishes:
Homemade GuacamoleEnchilada De Pollo en Salsa VerdeAl Pastor TacoQuesadilla De Tinga
Location:
35-57 38th St, Astoria, NY 11101, United States
Special Feature:
The restaurant offers a comfortable and unpretentious atmosphere, suitable for everyday dining.
What Makes It Special:
El Mero Mero is known for its consistent quality and classic Mexican dishes, providing a reliable option for traditional comfort food.
What Sets It Apart:
Its focus on serving well-prepared, home-style Mexican comfort food in a friendly, local setting distinguishes it from more modern or upscale establishments.
Operating Hours:
Monday – Thursday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PMFriday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PMSunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Price:
$10 to $20 per person
-
4
de Mole is a Mexican restaurant in Sunnyside, Queens, specializing in traditional regional cuisine from various parts of Mexico, with a particular focus on moles. The menu features authentic dishes prepared with fresh ingredients, served in a warm and inviting setting.- Item Prices
- 196
- Average Item Price
- $9.58
De Mole Menu PricesMore about De Mole
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Regional Mexican, Traditional Mexican
Signature Dishes:
Pollo BurritoGuacamole and ChipsGrilled Steak SincronizadaFresh Corn Tamales
Location:
42-20 30th Ave., Astoria, NY 11103, United States
Special Feature:
The restaurant is known for its dedication to crafting various types of mole sauces, a staple of Mexican cuisine.
What Makes It Special:
de Mole is known for its commitment to bringing the true flavors of Mexico's regions to Queens, providing a genuine culinary experience with its mole preparations.
What Sets It Apart:
Its specific focus on different mole sauces, prepared with traditional methods, distinguishes it from other Mexican restaurants in the borough.
Operating Hours:
Monday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PMSunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
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5
Cancun Cafe is a casual Mexican eatery in Queens, offering a menu of traditional Mexican dishes and Tex-Mex favorites. The restaurant provides a welcoming and family-friendly dining experience in a relaxed setting.- Item Prices
- 513
- Average Item Price
- $9.19
Cancun Cafe Menu PricesMore about Cancun Cafe
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Traditional Mexican, Tex-Mex
Signature Dishes:
Parrillada MixtaMexican Chilaquiles with MeatBirria NachosAl Pastor Taco
Location:
86-05 Jamaica Ave, Woodhaven, NY 11421, United States
Special Feature:
The restaurant offers a comfortable and unpretentious atmosphere, suitable for everyday dining with family and friends.
What Makes It Special:
Cancun Cafe is known for its consistent quality, hearty portions, and friendly service, making it a beloved spot for Mexican comfort food.
What Sets It Apart:
Its focus on providing reliable, home-style Mexican comfort food in a welcoming, community-oriented setting distinguishes it from more modern or upscale establishments.
Operating Hours:
Monday – Thursday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PMFriday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Price:
$10 to $20 per person
-
6
Mojo is a chic and vibrant Latin fusion restaurant located in the heart of the Forest Hills neighborhood in Queens. Known for its sophisticated, tropical-inspired decor and high-energy atmosphere, the restaurant offers a modern twist on Latin American classics. It has quickly become a premier destination for those seeking a stylish dining experience that combines traditional Caribbean and South American flavors with contemporary culinary flair.- Item Prices
- 269
- Average Item Price
- $11.53
Mojo Menu PricesMore about Mojo
Type of Food:
Latin American Fusion
Signature Dishes:
Baja Shrimp TacosBeef EmpanadasMojo Burger
Location:
70-20 Austin St, Forest Hills, NY 11375
Special Feature:
The restaurant features a stunning "Instagram-worthy" interior, highlighted by lush floral installations and a sleek, modern bar. It is also well-regarded for its creative craft cocktail program, which emphasizes fresh tropical fruits and premium spirits.
What Makes It Special:
Mojo brings a "Manhattan-style" energy to Queens. It is defined by its ability to transition from a bright, upscale lunch spot to a dimly lit, trendy lounge vibe in the evenings, making it a versatile choice for both family celebrations and romantic date nights.
What Sets It Apart:
Unlike traditional neighborhood eateries that focus on a single cuisine, Mojo’s strength lies in its "Fusion" concept. By successfully blending the comfort of Latin street food, like empanadas and tacos, with the sophistication of a modern bistro, it offers a diverse menu that appeals to a wide range of palates while maintaining high-end presentation.
Operating Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Price:
$30 to $50 per person
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7
Tequila Sunrise is a casual Mexican restaurant in Queens, offering a menu of traditional Mexican dishes and Tex-Mex favorites. The restaurant provides a welcoming and family-friendly dining experience with vibrant decor.- Item Prices
- 1,134
- Average Item Price
- $10.46
Tequila Sunrise Menu PricesMore about Tequila Sunrise
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Traditional Mexican, Tex-Mex
Signature Dishes:
Mixed FajitasBaja Fish TacosAl Carbon TacosArugula Chicken Tacos
Location:
145 Larchmont Ave Larchmont, NY 10538
Special Feature:
The restaurant features colorful, traditional Mexican artwork and a lively atmosphere, enhancing the dining experience.
What Makes It Special:
Tequila Sunrise is known for its consistent quality, hearty portions, and friendly service, making it a beloved spot for Mexican comfort food.
What Sets It Apart:
Its focus on providing reliable, home-style Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes in a festive, community-oriented setting distinguishes it from more modern or upscale establishments.
Operating Hours:
Monday – Thursday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PMFriday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PMSunday: 12:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Price:
$10 to $20 per person
-
8
8. Ay Güey
Ay Güey is a casual taqueria in Astoria, offering a menu of authentic Mexican street tacos and other antojitos. The eatery provides a straightforward dining experience with flavorful, traditional options, focusing on quick service.More about Ay Güey
Type of Restaurant:
Fast-Casual, Taqueria
Type of Food:
Mexican Street Food, Tacos
Signature Dishes:
Aguachile VerdeCarne AsadaBirria TacosAy Güey! Nachos
Location:
30-86 51st St, Queens, NY 11377, United States
Special Feature:
The eatery is known for its authentic street food preparation, offering a genuine taste of Mexican taco culture in a lively setting.
What Makes It Special:
Ay Güey is known for its consistent quality, fresh ingredients, and authentic flavors, making it a beloved spot for Mexican street food.
What Sets It Apart:
Its focus on well-executed, traditional Mexican street food, particularly its birria and al pastor tacos, distinguishes it as a go-to for genuine taco experiences.
Operating Hours:
Monday – Thursday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PMFriday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PMSunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Price:
$10 to $20 per person
-
9
9. Fresco’s Grand Cantina
Fresco’s Grand Cantina is a lively Mexican restaurant and bar in Astoria, offering a menu of traditional Mexican dishes and Tex-Mex favorites. The eatery provides a fun, casual atmosphere with a focus on margaritas and a bustling setting.More about Fresco’s Grand Cantina
Type of Food:
Traditional Mexican, Tex-Mex
Signature Dishes:
Bang Bang BangBreakfast BurittoPastelon TacoPollo Robado Taco
Location:
28-50 31st St, Queens, NY 11102, United States
Special Feature:
The restaurant features a vibrant bar area and often has specials on margaritas, making it a popular spot for social gatherings.
What Makes It Special:
Fresco’s Grand Cantina is known for its energetic ambiance, solid Mexican food, and its focus on margaritas, making it a popular spot for a casual night out.
What Sets It Apart:
Its combination of a lively atmosphere, a menu of crowd-pleasing Mexican and Tex-Mex favorites, and a strong margarita program distinguishes it as a go-to for a fun dining experience.
Operating Hours:
Monday – Thursday: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PMFriday: 3:00 PM – 12:00 AMSaturday: 2:00 PM – 12:00 AMSunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
-
10
10. Amor Loco
Amor Loco is a high-energy Mexican cantina located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. Known for its vibrant, colorful decor and festive atmosphere, the restaurant offers a spirited dining experience that transitions seamlessly from a popular lunch and brunch spot to a lively late-night destination. It is a favorite for those seeking bold Mexican flavors paired with creative cocktails in a fun, upbeat setting.More about Amor Loco
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining / Mexican Cantina & Bar
Type of Food:
Modern Mexican / Mexican-American
Signature Dishes:
Chicken Enchiladas SuizasAmor Loco WingsGuacamole & ChipsNachos Amor LocoBurrito Loco
Location:
134 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036
Special Feature:
Located just steps away from Times Square and the Broadway theater district, Amor Loco is a prime destination for "Pre-Theater" dinners and "After-Theater" drinks. The restaurant also features a robust brunch program and an extensive cocktail menu highlighted by specialty margaritas.
What Makes It Special:
Amor Loco is defined by its "fiesta" vibe. The combination of eclectic, neon-accented decor and a loud, energetic soundtrack makes it more than just a place to eat; it is a social hub designed for celebrations, group outings, and late-night gatherings.
What Sets It Apart:
While many Midtown eateries close early, Amor Loco stands out for its impressive late-night hours, serving full meals and cocktails until 2:00 AM every day. This accessibility, combined with its high-quality "Mex-Mainstream" menu, makes it a rare reliable late-night fixture in one of the busiest neighborhoods in the world.
Operating Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 AM
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
On the map
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes Mexican Restaurants in Queens Famous?
Mexican restaurants in Queens are known for Oaxacan and Puebla-style dishes, and a lively food truck culture. Queens’ Mexican fare attracts patrons seeking specific food preparations like complex moles and street tacos. Queens' status as New York City's most diverse borough, with a large Mexican-American population, means eateries incorporate influences from various Mexican regions, showing a wide array of traditional cooking. The borough maintains a strong appreciation for accessible, flavorful Mexican food, which cultivates a thriving food setting that supports traditional Mexican cooking.
What Types of Mexican Restaurants are Commonly Found in Queens?
Queens' famous cuisine includes several kinds of Mexican restaurants, such as taquerias and fine dining Mexican restaurants. The most common Mexican restaurant types in Queens are outlined below.
- Taquerias (Taco Shops): These casual eateries focus on Mexican street food like tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. Ay Güey and Guacstop are examples.
- Fine Dining Mexican Restaurants: These upscale dining establishments present Mexican food with contemporary methods, artistic plating, and refined concepts, sometimes earning Michelin stars. Casa Enrique exemplifies this type.
- Regional Mexican Restaurants: These dining spots concentrate on the specific culinary traditions of particular Mexican states or regions, such as Oaxaca or Puebla. de Mole and Mayahuel are examples.
- Modern Mexican Restaurants: These venues feature contemporary interpretations of classic Mexican dishes, emphasizing fresh ingredients, creative presentations, and craft cocktails. Mayahuel and Mojo represent this style.
- Traditional Mexican Eateries: These dining spots serve classic, home-style recipes, highlighting traditional flavors and often showing comforting Tex-Mex or traditional Mexican dishes. El Mero Mero and Cancun Cafe fit this description.
Are There Authentic Mexican Restaurants in Queens?
Yes, Queens contains Mexican restaurants that prepare food in a traditional manner, including Ay Güey, de Mole, and Casa Enrique. Ay Güey is noted for its genuine Mexican street tacos. de Mole is known for its traditional regional cuisine, emphasizing various mole sauces. Casa Enrique provides traditional regional cuisine from Chiapas, Mexico, earning a Michelin star for its true approach. These dining establishments prioritize classic recipes, cooking methods, and ingredients, delivering genuine Mexican dining experiences.
What are the Signature Dishes at the Best Mexican Restaurants in Queens?
Signature dishes at Queens' best Mexican restaurants display traditional tastes and particular food items including Mole Poblano, Al Pastor Tacos, and Tuna Tostadas. The following list describes some of these popular dishes.
- Mole Poblano: A complex, savory-sweet sauce made from many ingredients, including chiles, spices, and chocolate, traditionally served over chicken or other meats. Casa Enrique and de Mole offer this rich sauce.
- Al Pastor Tacos: Marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit (trompo), thinly sliced, and served on corn tortillas with pineapple, onion, and cilantro. Ay Güey and El Mero Mero often feature this traditional street food.
- Tuna Tostadas: Crispy tortillas topped with fresh raw tuna, often seasoned with citrus, avocado, and spicy sauces, a modern Mexican appetizer. Mayahuel and Mojo offer this popular item.
- Enchiladas Suizas: Enchiladas filled with chicken or cheese, topped with a creamy green tomatillo sauce and melted cheese. Casa Enrique and Fresco’s Grand Cantina feature this classic dish.
- Birria Tacos: Slow-cooked, tender meat stewed in a savory broth, served in tacos, often with a side of consommé for dipping. Ay Güey features flavorful birria tacos.
- Cochinita Pibil: Slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote and sour orange, a traditional dish from the Yucatán Peninsula. de Mole offers this flavorful dish.
- Fajitas: Sizzling platters of grilled meat (chicken, beef, or shrimp) with onions and bell peppers, served with tortillas and condiments. Fresco’s Grand Cantina and Cancun Cafe feature this popular Tex-Mex item.
How Do Queens Mexican Restaurants Compare to Brooklyn’s Best?
Queens’ Mexican restaurants emphasize true regional flavors, particularly Oaxacan and Puebla-style dishes, and a robust food truck culture. This contrasts with the best Mexican restaurants in Brooklyn, which often feature a focus on modern Mexican cuisine, fusion dishes, and a strong craft cocktail scene. Queens' food scene includes many family-owned eateries and Michelin-starred venues, highlighting accessible and flavorful traditional dishes. Brooklyn's Mexican restaurants are known for their inventive menus, trendy atmospheres, and often higher price points, catering to a diverse and cosmopolitan clientele. Queens' offerings tend toward comforting, classic preparations, particularly with moles and genuine street tacos. Brooklyn's Mexican food is often characterized by its creative plating and ambitious concepts. Queens' restaurants frequently feature extensive regional menus and a strong community feel.
Do Mexican Restaurants in Queens Offer Vegan Options?
Yes, many Mexican restaurants in Queens offer vegan options and these restaurants include Mayahuel, Mojo, Guacstop, Casa Enrique, de Mole, and El Mero Mero. Many dining spots present vegetarian sections where dishes can be made vegan by removing cheese and dairy-based sauces. Mayahuel offers plant-based tacos and vegetable-focused main courses. Mojo features several plant-based appetizers and main courses, including vegan ceviche. Guacstop has customizable bowls and burritos with vegan protein options. Casa Enrique provides vegetable fajitas and can adapt other dishes. de Mole offers vegetable-based dishes and can modify items to exclude animal products. El Mero Mero has choices like bean burritos and vegetable enchiladas.
Do Mexican Restaurants in Queens Offer Gluten-Free Options?
Yes, Mexican restaurants in Queens like Casa Enrique, Mayahuel, de Mole, Mojo, Fresco’s Grand Cantina, and Cancun Café have gluten-free menu items. A good portion of Mexican cooking is inherently gluten-free, as corn tortillas, meats, and vegetables form the foundation of many dishes. Casa Enrique offers many grilled items and corn-based dishes free of gluten. Mayahuel provides gluten-free corn tortillas for tacos and can adapt many of its modern dishes. de Mole features grilled meats and seafood, along with corn-based items. Mojo prepares many of its contemporary dishes using corn as a base. Fresco’s Grand Cantina has many inherently gluten-free items, including ceviches and grilled proteins. Cancun Cafe offers gluten-free options for many of its fajitas and grilled dishes.
What is the Average Price of a Meal at Mexican Restaurants in Queens?
The cost of a meal in a Mexican restaurant in Queens is between $10 and $70 per person. A single meal at a fast-casual taqueria like Ay Güey or Guacstop costs $10 to $20. A meal for two to four people at a casual dining spot such as El Mero Mero or Cancun Cafe costs $30 to $60. A meal at a budget-friendly eatery like Ay Güey or Guacstop costs $10 to $25 per person. A complete dinner experience at an upscale restaurant like Casa Enrique or Mayahuel costs $25 to $70 per person.
Is Mexican Food Popular in Queens?
Yes, Mexican food is particularly famous in Queens, New York due to its large Mexican-American population and its historical ties to Mexico. The borough's varied neighborhoods mean many Mexican dishes served locally use high-quality, fresh ingredients and often reflect specific regional tastes. The existence of chef-led Mexican restaurants, including Michelin-starred Casa Enrique, alongside beloved family-owned eateries, shows a desire for both traditional and modern Mexican cuisine.
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