From bustling Bree Street to neighbourhood gems, Mexican flavours have found a home in Cape Town. Whether you’re after tacos and cerveza at a laid-back spot or want an elevated dining experience with a side of premium Tequila, there’s something for everyone. These restaurants capture the spirit of Mexican food in their own way – some leaning traditional, others giving it a Tex-Mex or local twist – and all promise bold flavours and festive energy. Here are some of the best Mexican restaurants in Cape Town that are absolutely worth visiting.
Chingadas
For a mix of street-food flair, delicious food and trendy vibes, Chingadas in Gardens hits the spot. Their tacos are loaded with flavour, and the drinks list includes a wide range of Tequilas and cocktails. This Tex-Mex-inspired cantina leans into bold décor and lively music, giving it a party feel. It’s a great place to kick off a night out or settle in for a festive dinner.
Location: 50 Orange St, Gardens, Cape Town
Hours: Tues-Thurs: 12h00–23h00 | Fri-Sat: 12h00-00h00 | Sun: 12h00–22h00
Contact: 0212010325
Didis Mexican
Didis Mexican started as a food truck, and now has several sit-down spots across the city, including Newlands, Foreshore and Plumstead. Their menu spans burritos, tacos, quesadillas and bowls made fresh with bold salsas and toppings. Vegetarian and vegan choices are well represented, making it inclusive for all. Casual, friendly and great value, it’s a dependable option for a quick Mexican fix.
Location: 2 Long St, Foreshore, Cape Town | Cooper House Shop 5, Newlands | 4 Gabriel Rd, Plumstead
Hours: Mon-Sun: 11h00–20h00
Contact: 021 003 4494
El Burro
El Burro delivers Mexican food with flair, from hand-pressed tortillas to fresh ceviche and crunchy churros. The Green Point branch has a bustling bar and balcony, while the Taqueria in Tamboerskloof has a vibrant atmosphere. Both offer an impressive selection of starters, mains and tacos; pair your meal with one of their delightful cocktails or Tequilas for a real treat. The bright, bold décor and a lively crowd make it a staple in Cape Town’s dining scene.
Location: 79 Main Rd, Green Point (El Burro Green Point) | 1, New Church St & Kloof Nek Rd, Tamboerskloof (El Burro Taqueria)
Hours: Mon-Sat: 12h00–23h30 (El Burro Green Point) | Mon-Sat: 12h00–23h00 (El Burro Taqueria, Tamboerskloof)
Contact: 021 433 2364 (El Burro Green Point) | 021 422 3554 (El Burro Taqueria, Tamboerskloof)
Hacienda Coastal Mexican
Adding flair to Bree Street’s buzzing dining scene, Hacienda offers a fresh coastal take on Mexican cuisine with influences from Baja California. Seafood and tacos shine alongside flavour-packed sauces and mole made in-house. Visit on Wednesdays for their taco special, where you can enjoy tacos for R99. Their half-priced deals on margaritas, during happy hour (from 16h00 until 17h30), are a big draw, and the cocktails go well beyond the classics. It’s sophisticated yet fun – a great spot for a night out on the town.
Location: 92 Bree Street, Cape Town
Hours: Mon-Sun: 12h00–22h30
Contact: 021 422 0128 | Email
Mexicola Locale
Mexicola Locale fires up authentic Mexican flavours with a local touch, thanks to its wood-fired grill and delicious dishes. Expect tasty tacos, from el pastor with braised pork shoulder to Baja-inspired tacos with local fish; they also have vegetarian-friendly options. The cocktail list leans heavily into Tequila and Mezcal with vibrant margaritas to match the lively atmosphere. With branches in Hout Bay and Woodstock, it’s a festive choice for dinner with friends.
Location: 4 The Promenade Rd, Hout Bay | 154 Sir Lowry Road, Buchanan Square, Woodstock
Hours: Closed Mon, Tues-Thurs: 17h00–22h00, Fri–Sat: 12h00–23h00 & Sun: 12h00–22h00
Contact: 066 152 9757
Pancho’s Mexican Restaurant
Located in the heart of Observatory, Pancho’s has earned cult status for its generous Tex-Mex portions and party-like atmosphere. Huge nacho platters, fajitas, quesadillas and frozen margaritas keep regulars coming back. The space is colourful and unpretentious, making it ideal for group dinners or birthday celebrations. Value for money is a big part of its charm, so go hungry. Try the frozen margaritas; you also can’t go wrong with the chilli poppers and the flautas.
Location: 127 Lower Main Rd, Observatory
Hours: Closed Sun & Mon | Tues-Thurs: 17h00–22h00 | Fri & Sat: 17h00–23h00
Contact: 021 447 4854
Tacos Locos
Tacos Locos in Salt River keeps things casual with fuss-free, flavour-packed Mexican street food. The menu covers tacos, burritos, nachos and quesadillas – all at affordable prices. Portions are hearty, and there are plenty of vegetarian options too. With its relaxed setting and quick service, it’s a go-to for weekday tacos and ‘cervezas’ (beers) or easy dinners.
Location: 364 Victoria Road, Salt River, Cape Town
Hours: Mon-Thurs: 12h00–20h15, Fri-Sat: 12h00–21h00 | Closed Sun
Contact: 081 851 6843
Tortuga Loca
Muizenberg’s Tortuga Loca brings playful energy and a menu with plenty of vegetarian and seafood choices. From chicken and jackfruit enchiladas to prawn and mushroom tacos, the food keeps customers coming back for more. The space is bright and buzzing, often filling up quickly on weekends. It’s a local favourite that matches beach-town vibes with Mexican zest.
Location: 141 Main Rd, Muizenberg
Hours: Closed Mon | Tues-Sun: 12h00–23h00
Contact: 087 095 5733
Una Más – Mezcaleria
Owned by Sean and Gavin Binder and run by chef Dian Botes, Sea Point’s Una Más is all about social dining and fabulous food. The menu is designed for sharing; tasty tapas, street corn ribs, empanadas and soft tacos are among the highlights. It’s moody, stylish and buzzing in the evenings – perfect for sipping cocktails alongside plates of Mexican-inspired fare. With an extensive collection of Tequila and Mezcal, featuring over 180 varieties, it’s the perfect spot for a night of socialising with friends.
Location: Shop 2, 77 Regent Rd, Sea Point
Hours: Mon-Sun: 12h00–late
Contact: 076 705 8410
Staying in? Try these mouthwatering Mexican-inspired recipes.
