The 4 best Mexican restaurants in Grand Rapids, according to readers

When it comes to Mexican restaurants, there are more mouthwatering options in Grand Rapids than you may think. From authentic street tacos to enchiladas to something inventive and new, this city has something for every craving. In a recent readers’ poll, four restaurants reigned Taco Supreme as the top Mexican restaurants among our readers. Get ready to fall in love with the best Mexican eateries in Grand Rapids in 2024!

Courtesy of Tacos el Cunado-Alpine

1. Tacos el Cuñado

What sets Tacos el Cuñado apart is its chefs’ dedication to freshness and flavor in their expansive menu. They can cater to a wide array of people, including meat lovers, vegetarians, and even picky kids. While higher-end Mexican restaurants concentrate on mixing the perfect margarita, Tacos el Cuñado is happy to serve the best horchata and even offer Capri Suns for the little ones. They also serve breakfast, including homemade pancakes that the whole family will love.

Whatever your tastes, you can find something delicious and affordable at Tacos el Cuñado, from the piled-high fajitas to the taco trio to their famous wet burrito.  And for those seeking a lighter, equally satisfying option, try the vegetarian tacos, filled to the brim with fresh produce. Even their meatless tacos don’t skimp on flavor.

As you bite into one of their signature dishes, it’s easy to see why this place has become a cornerstone of the Mexican dining scene in Grand Rapids. Each ingredient sings with freshness, and every taco is filled with the skill and love that goes into its creation. So, come with an appetite and leave with the memories that only Tacos el Cuñado can provide.

Courtesy of Donkey Taqueria

2. Donkey Taqueria

This trendsetting eatery has carved out a niche for itself by reimagining the way we experience Mexican cuisine in Michigan. Donkey Taqueria’s creative staff blends the flavors of Mexico with an inventive modern twist, creating a fresh and unique dining experience that will leave you wanting more.

Donkey Taqueria takes a fearless approach to combining ingredients that might seem unconventional but result in extraordinary dishes. Take, for instance, their famous fish tacos or their decadent vanilla bean churros made with a hint of spice. It’s this boldness, this willingness to experiment with fresh ingredients, that makes each meal here truly special.

And if you love hand-crafted cocktails, stop on in and try one here! They’re perfectly designed to complement your meal, from the various margaritas made with 100% pure blue agave tequila to a classic Michelada to the fresh and creative selection of Palomas.

So, whether you’re a long-time lover of classic Mexican cuisine looking for something shiny and new or a curious foodie ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure, Donkey Taqueria awaits you with open arms and a menu that promises to enchant your senses.

Courtesy of Lindo Mexico

3. Lindo Mexico

This family-owned gem in Grand Rapids has built a reputation on its unwavering commitment to authenticity, and an atmosphere that radiates warmth and genuine hospitality. Lindo Mexico is a celebration of traditional Mexican cuisine, and each dish is prepared with the same love and attention to detail you’d find in a home-cooked meal. 

The sizzling fajitas arrive at your table still crackling from the grill, enveloped in a cloud of aromas that promise to satisfy even the most intense cravings. Their wet burritos, made with recipes that have been tweaked to perfection over the years, offer a sublime balance of savory and spice. And their cheesecake chimichanga is a unique after-dinner delight sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

At Lindo Mexico, every meal is an invitation to explore the depths of authentic Mexican flavors, all while enjoying the comfort and hospitality that only a family-owned restaurant can offer. It’s a place where every visit feels like coming home. 

Courtesy of Maggie’s

4. Maggie’s Kitchen

Operating for forty years on Grand Rapids’ West Side, Maggie’s Kitchen emerges as the best-kept secret among those who love real, authentic Mexican cuisine. This modest eatery might fly under the radar for the uninformed, yet for those in the know, it’s the go-to spot for handmade flautas, tamales, and the best barbacoa in the city. 

Maggie’s has cultivated a loyal following through its dedication to delivering hot, fast, delicious meals with authentic flavors crafted with the utmost care. Each dish is made with a commitment to quality and freshness, from the tangy salsa to their homemade tortillas. 

For those embarking on a quest to uncover the best Mexican cuisine in Grand Rapids, Maggie’s stands as a must-visit destination. Not only is it a place where foodies flock, but it’s also a welcoming spot for school groups and fundraisers, showing dedication and care to the community. 

So if you’re craving Mexican food that’s cooked by hand by friendly faces in a homey atmosphere, head down to this hidden gem and enjoy some of the best tacos in town!