Mexican Food in Philadelphia (2025)

Chef Dionicio Jiménez channels Puebla and CDMX with house tortillas, aguachiles, and seasonal riffs. Recognized by Eater editors and a James Beard Best Chef Mid-Atlantic finalist, it’s a Kensington beacon for serious Mexican cooking.

Cristina Martinez’s famed lamb barbacoa now serves from inside Casa Mexico. A James Beard winner, she keeps the weekend ritual intact with consommé and tortillas; the Inquirer confirms the 2024 move as a consolidation, not a closure.

Cristina Martinez’s larger dining room expands beyond barbacoa with moles, chilaquiles, and regional stews. Featured by Eater and praised by local critics, it’s a vibrant hub of Italian Market Mexican cooking and community.

A family from San Mateo Ozolco mills blue corn for huaraches, tacos, and seasonal specialties. The Philadelphia Inquirer lauded its “authentic substance,” and it remains a beloved Italian Market stop. Cash only.

A neighborhood standard for soulful Puebla cooking—think rich mole, weekend goat barbacoa, and excellent tamales—praised by Inquirer critic Craig LaBan and still going strong in 2025.

Chef Juan Carlos Aparicio’s Pueblan BYOB centers on superb cemitas, aguachiles, and breakfasts. Celebrated on The New York Times Restaurant List and highlighted by local outlets for its craftsmanship and community roots.

Point Breeze’s mezcal-focused cantina serves aguachiles, trompo tacos, and playful al pastor pizza. The Infatuation recommends it for big-flavor shareables and a strong agave program.

Beloved for Oaxacan hot chocolate, brunch classics, and comforting chilaquiles, this South Philly stalwart is frequently recommended by Eater and local critics for daytime Mexican cravings.

A West Philly anchor with breakfast plates, soups, and a broad menu that locals love. Included in Eater’s essential Mexican list and a reliable pick near Penn and Drexel.

Port Richmond’s modern Mexican with house tortillas, ceviches, and a thoughtful mezcal list. Noted by The Philadelphia Inquirer among the city’s next-wave Mexican spots beyond South Philly.

Part grocery, part taquería, famed for giant huaraches and late hours. The Infatuation points night owls here, especially after nearby rooftop hangs.

University City’s lunchtime staple for straightforward tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. A longtime Thrillist pick and a wallet-friendly local favorite.