Ohio’s Mexican food scene is richer than many realize. Across every major city, you’ll find spots that lean into tradition, fuse new flavors, and offer inviting atmospheres worth seeking out. While it’s impossible to capture every gem, these nine restaurants each bring something distinct to the table, whether it’s house-made tortillas, crowd-pleasing margaritas, or a family story that shapes the menu.
I’ve visited, talked with locals, scoured recent reviews, and followed food writers to compile this list. If you’re looking for flavor, hospitality, and a sense of place, you’re in for a treat. Read on for restaurants serving craveable tacos, irresistible salsas, legendary fajitas, and creative comfort food, all with their own Ohio twist.
1. Mazunte Taqueria (Cincinnati)
Stepping into Mazunte Taqueria feels like a quick trip to Mexico City. The aroma of house-made tortillas hits first, followed by sizzling meats and the tang of fresh cilantro. There’s a laid-back warmth here, walls adorned with folk art, music humming in the background, and a steady stream of regulars.
Mazunte’s menu sticks to the classics but doesn’t play it safe. People rave about their tlayudas (giant Oaxacan tortillas topped with beans, cheese, and meats), with each bite layered in flavor. Their salsa bar is a magnet for repeat visits. Try the smoky chipotle or the fiery habanero, each one crafted from fresh, vibrant ingredients.
This isn’t a spot for endless Tex-Mex combos. Instead, you get bold, focused dishes like tacos al pastor, chicken enchiladas with mole, and rich pozole. Named best Mexican restaurant in Ohio in early 2025, Mazunte has earned high marks from press, foodies, and homesick travelers alike. It’s not just dinner; it’s a small, joyful celebration of Mexican street food right in Cincinnati.
2. Mi Cozumel (Cincinnati)
Margarita glasses clink and laughter spills through Mi Cozumel on a Friday night. For six straight years, Cincy Magazine has named this place the “Best Mexican Restaurant of the North.” It’s not hard to see why, generous portions, a welcoming staff, and menu favorites that locals return for week after week.
The house margaritas come in every flavor and level of strength you can imagine. If you’re feeling adventurous, ask for their signature giant margarita, best shared with friends. The flaming fajitas arrive at your table with a dramatic sizzle, filling the air with the scent of caramelized onions and peppers.
Underneath the fun and energy lies a family-owned operation that cares for its diners. Service is attentive, and the menu balances familiar comfort with a few surprises (try their birria tacos if you spot them). Whether you’re bringing a group or just want a quick solo meal, Mi Cozumel’s atmosphere feels like home. The flavors, the warmth, and the little touches keep it a local favorite.
3. El Rancho Grande (Cincinnati/Dayton)
El Rancho Grande has been a comforting fixture since 1998, run by a family whose recipes span generations. The moment you walk in, you’re met with the sizzle of fajitas and the scent of freshly fried tortilla chips. It’s the kind of place where regulars know the servers by name.
People return for their scratch-made dishes, especially the tamales and enchiladas. The kitchen doesn’t cut corners on quality or flavor. There’s pride in their mole sauce, with its deep, layered profile forged from over a dozen ingredients. Even the rice and beans get attention, they’re never an afterthought.
What I love most: consistency. Whether you stop in for lunch or dinner, at any location, you’ll find the same generous hospitality and well-executed classics. El Rancho Grande isn’t flashy, but that’s part of its charm. It’s a steady, reliable place to soak in tradition and enjoy a meal that feels both hearty and genuine.
4. Tortilleria Garcia (Cincinnati area)
College Hill’s Tortilleria Garcia earns rave reviews from food critics and Reddit threads alike. The focus here is clear, fresh tortillas are made daily from scratch, and you can taste the difference in every taco. The College Hill outpost has a loyal following, from neighbors to hungry students.
Their menu is straightforward but executed with care. Barbacoa and carnitas tacos arrive wrapped in warm, supple tortillas, crowned with onions and cilantro. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable, which keeps the dining room buzzing.
There’s no pretense, just bold flavors and friendly service. If you haven’t tried their chorizo breakfast tacos, you’re missing out. Tortilleria Garcia’s blend of quality, value, and authenticity makes it one of Cincinnati’s standouts for Mexican fare. It’s the sort of spot where you can grab a quick bite or linger with friends, always leaving satisfied.
5. Avo Modern Mexican (Cleveland, Ohio City)
Avo Modern Mexican stands out in Cleveland’s Ohio City for its inventive take on tradition. The restaurant feels open and lively, with natural light and a bar lined with dozens of tequilas. Local food writers have praised Avo’s attention to detail and creativity in both food and drinks.
The star here is the house-made tortillas, which anchor tacos filled with everything from crispy fish to vegan chorizo. Their kitchen isn’t afraid to try new things, whether it’s a roasted corn elote with chipotle aioli or a taco flight for the indecisive.
What sets Avo apart is how it balances contemporary style with warmth. Service feels attentive but never rushed, and the menu makes room for both classics and bold new ideas. Whether you’re stopping by for happy hour or a full dinner, Avo offers a fresh and satisfying perspective on Mexican cuisine in Cleveland.
6. Cozumel (Cleveland, Lakewood)
Locals in Lakewood swear by Cozumel for dependable, flavorful Mexican fare. This Cleveland staple has earned its place in “best of” roundups for years, and the regulars show up for a reason. The vibe is casual, with bright murals and a hum of conversation that signals a busy night.
Signature dishes like the enchiladas verdes and shrimp fajitas keep people coming back. Portions are generous without sacrificing quality. There’s a relaxed, come-as-you-are energy that makes it easy to settle in and enjoy a meal with friends or family.
Where Cozumel shines most is in its consistency and authenticity. The kitchen doesn’t overcomplicate things, flavors feel true to their roots, and the service is attentive without being overbearing. For anyone searching for real Mexican comfort food in Cleveland, this spot fits the bill.
7. Lupita’s Mexican Cuisine & Bar (Columbus, Merion Village)
Tucked into Merion Village, Lupita’s Mexican Cuisine & Bar is a recent arrival with a big local following. Axios named their chicken chimichanga one of the best in Central Ohio, and the praise is deserved. The setting is intimate, with just enough tables to feel lively without being crowded.
The menu focuses on home-style cooking, think rich sauces, crisp fried shells, and flavorful rice. Specials change often, and the staff is quick with recommendations. There’s a genuine sense of welcome that comes through in every interaction.
It’s the kind of place that makes you want to linger over an extra basket of chips. Lupita’s has quickly become a favorite for those who want something fresh, cozy, and distinctly Columbus. If you’re passing through or just exploring the city’s food scene, this spot is not to be missed.
8. El Carajillo Mexican Cafe & Bar (Columbus, Italian Village)
El Carajillo Mexican Cafe & Bar makes breakfast an event in Columbus’s Italian Village. Locals rave about the breakfast burrito, packed, flavorful, and perfect with a side of their house salsas. The space feels inviting, with exposed brick, soft lighting, and the low hum of conversation.
Their coffeechata (iced coffee meets horchata) stands out as a unique pick-me-up. Whether you’re visiting for brunch, lunch, or an afternoon snack, there’s a calm, friendly feeling that encourages you to relax and enjoy. The kitchen doesn’t shy away from creativity, so you’ll spot rotating specials alongside the classics.
For those who love breakfast at any hour or want a new twist on familiar flavors, El Carajillo hits the mark. The neighborhood charm and inventive menu make this a destination for food lovers and caffeine seekers alike.
9. Maria’s Mexican Restaurant (Lancaster)
Maria’s Mexican Restaurant stands out as a joyful gathering place in Lancaster. The atmosphere bursts with color, piñatas hang from the ceiling, and every corner feels ready for a party. It’s a favorite for birthdays, family dinners, and anyone wanting a festive meal.
Big portions are the rule here. The menu leans into crowd-pleasers: sizzling fajitas, cheesy burritos, and crispy chimichangas bring cheers from tables of all ages. Their margarita bar is well-stocked, offering both the classics and inventive house blends.
What makes Maria’s special is the sense of occasion it brings to even an ordinary night out. There’s event space for bigger groups, plus attentive service that keeps the mood light and upbeat. For those willing to venture outside the bigger cities, this small-town gem delivers flavor and fun worth the drive.
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