La Canasta Mexican Food

Mexican restaurant · Whitman

La Canasta Mexican Food

Mexican restaurant · Whitman

3

2341 S 4th St, Philadelphia, PA 19148

Photos

La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by NICOLE GUGLIELMO
La Canasta Mexican Food by NICOLE GUGLIELMO
La Canasta Mexican Food by NICOLE GUGLIELMO
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null
La Canasta Mexican Food by null

Highlights

Authentic Mexican food, featuring tacos, enchiladas, and fresh guacamole.  

Featured in The Infatuation
Placeholder

2341 S 4th St, Philadelphia, PA 19148 Get directions

lacanastamexicanfoodpa.com
@lacanastamexicanfood

$10–20 · Menu

Information

Static Map

2341 S 4th St, Philadelphia, PA 19148 Get directions

+1 267 639 4060
lacanastamexicanfoodpa.com
@lacanastamexicanfood

$10–20 · Menu

Features

payment credit card
Tap to pay

Last updated

Aug 18, 2025

Powered By

You might also like

Terms of Use • Privacy Policy • Cookie Policy
 © 2025 Postcard Technologies, Inc.
@infatuation

The Best Tacos In Philadelphia

"It’s no surprise that there’s usually a crowd inside South Philly’s La Canasta—sure, it’s small, but their great Mexican food (especially their tacos) draws big crowds. The tortillas are fluffy, and we suggest you get them wrapped around smoky short rib, spicy shrimp, or crispy chunks of tilapia, which are our three favorite tacos here. No matter which way you go, the flavors of the marinated meat are deep and spicy. If it gets too fiery, order a round of Jarritos, fresh-squeezed cucumber lemonade, or margarita mixers for the table to balance out the sizzle.   " - alison kessler, candis mclean

https://www.theinfatuation.com/philadelphia/guides/the-best-tacos-in-philadelphia
View Postcard for La Canasta Mexican Food
@infatuation

Where To Catch Up With Your Friend Who Out-Summered You

"You can almost lose count of the number of friends that went to Tulum, Cabo, or Cancun this summer. And even though they only dined at the resort’s mediocre buffet, they now believe every taco in Philly tastes like cardboard. To offer them the only (actual) good taco they’ve had in weeks, head to South Philly’s La Canasta. From classic al pastor and carne tacos to cheesy enchiladas, everything wrapped in a flour tortilla here is cooked to perfection. " - candis mclean

https://www.theinfatuation.com/philadelphia/guides/where-to-catch-up-with-your-friend-who-out-summered-you
View Postcard for La Canasta Mexican Food
@infatuation

La Canasta Review - South Philly - Philadelphia - The Infatuation

"It’s no surprise that there’s usually a crowd inside ’s La Canasta—sure, it’s small, but their great food (especially their tacos and chile rellenos) draws big crowds. The has a handful of tables next to the windows and a large chalkboard listing the daily specials, as well as a bar that’s available for extra seating. The housemade tortillas are fluffy, and we suggest you get them wrapped around smoky short rib, spicy shrimp, or crispy chunks of tilapia (our three favorite tacos here). Some dishes can get fiery, so be sure to order a round of Jarritos, fresh-squeezed cucumber lemonade, or margarita mixers for the table to balance out the heat.    " - Candis R. McLean

https://www.theinfatuation.com/philadelphia/reviews/la-canasta
View Postcard for La Canasta Mexican Food

Adam

Google
This place was on the list to try. I must say it didn't disappoint at all. The guacamole was amazing. Fresh ingredients added a great flavor and good portions to boot. The enchiladas were well made and seasoned well. The flavor of each ingredient in the sauce was very well throughout each bite. The chili Relenos were some of the best I have ever tried. The pobalno peppers were sweet and smokey with the cheese and beef that made it all pair so well. The rice was seasoned well with tomatoes and other spices and vegetables. The beans were also cooked very well. Everything tasted amazing here. The service was attentive and very nice and polite. This place is definitely worth a visit for authentic food. Will be coming back here again.

P Lai

Google
What an excellent find! the pictures don't do it justice. The guacamole is fresh and creamy, paired with crunchy and not the typically stale corn chips you get at other restaurants. Enchilada Suisas was creamy and delicious with a lovely savory chicken and naturally sweet beans. The rice was flavored and had corn bits, a lovely surprise. The chile relenos was an all time favorite, with a smoky pepper and amazing savory meat with a well seasoned rice with tomato bits. Going to become my new go to.

Kika Z

Google
My favorite meal of my 7 day work trip. We took a Lyft from downtown. Definitely worth it! Authentic Mexican food. Delicious!!!! Everyone enjoyed their selection. The rice was just like my aunts make, beans were perfectly cooked, and my chills relleno was the best I’ve had at restaurants. Our waiter, a young man, was super nice and patient either our group of 15. They do not sell alcohol but it’s BYOB and fortunately someone has done little vodka bottles that went perfect with our piña agua fresca. Definitely recommend this hidden gem. Prices were very reasonable and portions were just right. The salsa and guacamole were perfection. Wish I would have gone back before heading back to California!

Nicole Blackson

Google
The food was authentic and prepared well with fresh ingredients! The server was very professional and warm. A few people were inside eating when we arrived, but it never had gotten crowded, which was nice for a Saturday.

Patrick S

Google
Middle of the road Mexican food, didn't feel very authentic and prices a bit high for what you get. Chorizo torta did have soft bread though and the bathroom was clean. I'd probably try a different, more authentic place next time.

Retna Slater

Google
Food is fresh and delicious. Corn on the cob is a good choice as appetizer, it’s covered in cotija cheese. Enchilada with mole sauce is awesome. We really enjoyed the food. I highly recommend this place.

Richard Lopez

Google
Great place. Quick service, good food, reasonable prices. I always go with the burrito but the enchiladas w/ mole sauce is good as well!

Stephanie Portmann

Google
La Canasta has quickly become one of my go-to Mexican restaurants in South Philly. The food is great and is always prepared very quickly (for both dine in and takeout), prices are reasonable, and the employees are very kind. It's BYOB too, which is always a plus. They take cash and card and are open for lunch and dinner every day except Sunday. It has never been very busy any of the times I've dined in or picked up takeout which has always stumped me because it's so good!
google avatar

Tanvir H.

Yelp
I cam across this restaurant as I was in Southern Philadelphia for an event and wanted to get lunch. I have not had mexican in a while so when I saw one near me I had to try going. Getting there was a bit rough. The restaurant is at the corner of a street surrounded by housing and a lot of one way roads where most can only park cars on one side due to street cleaning signs or it was too narrow. Once I got that sorted I was able to make my way to the restaurant just fine. There was not a lot of seating but just enough where it is probably a local family business. the lady running the register was very nice and patient with me. I ordered my food and sat down. I started off by going to the bathroom to wash my hands and my food was ready shortly after i returned. Very straightforward experience. I was the only customer in the restaurant at around noon, so the lady left to stay in the back kitchen as i enjoyed my food. It was pretty peaceful, there was music playing and a soccer game on the big tv so it was a nice ambience to just take a break from the day and focus on the food. Overall it was a local establishment that's probably not on too many people's radars but if you're in the area you should give it a chance
google avatar

Elizabeth M.

Yelp
My friend and I came here in the middle of the day for a late lunch/early dinner meal and had a great experience. We were the only people there for most of the time there because of the weird time of day. It is a BYO, so don't expect to see margaritas on the menu! I got the Vegetarian Enchiladas (mushrooms, zucchini, bell pepper, onion) with mole sauce, which came with rice and pinto beans. Everything was so tasty! It was also super reasonably priced. I definitely recommend checking out La Canasta if you're in the neighborhood - you won't regret it!
google avatar

Adam B.

Yelp
Food was great. I got the enchiladas de suizas which I've never really had before. It's a very rich and creamy salsa verde. A really enjoyable dish. Good place. For a better, more in depth review, read what my friend Elizabeth M. wrote. She is the one in the photo and she's very good.
google avatar

Jack M.

Yelp
The short rib burrito was big. The tortilla was stretchy and chewy. The burrito has lots of well-executed short rib, rice, cheese, and veggies. The accompanying fries were unnecessary but fine. I was a bit confused their website says burritos are $10, but they charged $14 when I arrived. I guess their website isn't up to date? To be fair, this price is still reasonable. It just doesn't match what was posted. Maybe they added extra for the fries [I didn't order]? Great burrito, though!
google avatar

Retna S.

Yelp
We came back here on Friday because we really enjoyed the food the last time we ate here. It was a busy night for take out orders so our orders didn't come out fast. Shrimp tacos: it was served in three with one tortilla each so it's not heavy. Each taco is loaded with fresh guacamole. They provided green and red salsa. The red on is very spicy. Flan: it's not too sweet, good ending for the dinner
google avatar

Isaac K.

Yelp
If you're idea of a good time is an earnest, little, no frills joint that makes amazing Mexican food that taste like it's prepared by someone who knows exactly what they're doing - then you have to pay a visit to this here hidden gem.
google avatar

Eve H.

Yelp
Best food I have ever hadi go here with my dad and we love the food I always get the torta it is delicious

Allen D.

Yelp
Great small Mexican restaurant. The food is SO good-been there several times and never had anything that I didn't like!

F H.

Yelp
A gem in South Philly. We "discovered" La Canasta about 2 years ago and have been going there regularly (maybe every 1-2 weeks). I was never a fan of Mexican food, but La Canasta changed my mind. I've had tacos, gorditas, sopes, enchiladas, burritos, tortas, salads, tostadas, nachos,chicken soup. Presentation of the food is beautiful. Never had a bad meal. Friendly and helpful staff. Reasonable prices. Clean. For the disabled, negative is that the toilets are downstairs. We've been tempted to try other of the many Mexican restaurants in South Philly, but don't want to be disappointed because La Canasta has set a high bar.
google avatar

Brian B.

Yelp
The food here is amazing! Coming from California I've had trouble finding places that I really enjoy, but this place.... I almost want to keep it a secret but I really want them to succeed so I can keep eating here.

Austin N.

Yelp
Food was incredible and service was quick and very friendly. Al pastor tacos were some of the best I've ever had. Definitely recommend.
google avatar

Ramona H.

Yelp
Visiting from Bk,NY. Shrimp tacos were flavorful & moist with nice amount of shrimp. Friend enjoyed her steak burrito, 1st time having Mexican corn-was delish, the grill chicken was flavorful but amount of rice was disappointing. However, definitely recommend.
google avatar

Nicole P.

Yelp
Delicious food and drinks, great service! We had the guacamole as an appetizer and enchiladas as a meal.
google avatar

Kevin D.

Yelp
Best Mexican food in South Philly! We've eaten here several times, and the food has never been less than excellent. In particular, I'd recommend the spicy plantains appetizer, the quesadillas, and anything with mole sauce. The service is always friendly and the prices are friendly, too!
google avatar

Sims H.

Yelp
This is my favorite neighborhood spot! Everything is great! BYOB and a big TV too! Great for takeout as well. The quesadilla is incredible!
google avatar

Thomas C.

Yelp
The Culinary Adventures of Tom Coghlan Yesterday at 1:03 PM · I was driving down 4th St. on my way to Shoprite to decide on my dinner for that night. I just left my Doctors Office, where I had a series of tests that left me a bit drained. As I approached Ritner St. I saw a Mexican Restaurant that had just recently opened, La Canasta. I drove by the restaurant several times previously, and it peaked my interest. As fate would have it, there was a parking spot directly across the street. A new adventure was in the making... I entered La Canasta and met my server, Pola, who seated me at a table for two. La Canasta is a BYOB, so I asked Pola what her favorite fresh juice was. Strawberry Lime was her choice. It was as delicious as it was refreshing! I was pleased... While I surveyed the menu enjoying my fresh juice, I ordered Guacamole and chips. The Guacamole was fresh as were the chips and were the perfect preparation for my main course. I noticed on the menu, something new to me. Something different! Spicy Mango Salmon. Salmon Filet sautéed with Broccoli, Cauliflower, Carrots, Bell Pepper and Onion. I ALWAYS enjoy trying something new and ordered it right away. It was uniquely delicious. and very nice. The Salmon was perfectly cooked and drizzled with a sweet and spicy Mango Sauce and served atop the vegetables and a side of rice. I enjoyed every bite!
google avatar

Angel C.

Yelp
Right down the street from where I live so I had to try! The food was very good! Our server was also very nice and friendly. She was also very accommodating as we were a slightly larger party w kids, making sure that our orders came out the way we wanted in a timely manner! The inside of the restaurant was very nicely decorated and had a bit of a homey feel that made you feel very comfortable. As for the food, it was to die for! The prices are super reasonable and the portion sizes are huge! I personally got the steak tacos (no pico for me!) and they were just delicious! The other people in my part got the fish tacos and the carne asada and said they were just super tasty! The nachos are also super yummy! However, my favorite were the flan and the nachos! Plus they're BYOB!

Mackenzie O.

Yelp
They make the best tacos I have ever had! I usually get the shrimp tacos, and the salsas that come with them are so fresh. The food is all delicious, and the service is great too. The restaurant is super clean. All around a great restaurant!! Give it a try!!
google avatar

Kathy T.

Yelp
Favorite local taco spot. Delicious food and kind staff. Sampled the taco de canasta once but never quite got the full thing as they are only available on Fridays/Saturdays and sell out fast. Go early if you want to specials
google avatar

Jake H.

Yelp
This is my favorite mexican restaurant in south philly. My wife and I live nearby and eat in or get take out at least once or twice a month. The food is authentic, fresh, and the family that owns it is super nice. Best pico de gallo ive ever had. Highly recommend! BYOB.
google avatar

Carolyn Y.

Yelp
The food was AMAZING: delicious and authentic! Great little corner BYOB where the staff was extremely friendly and attentive. Large portions for a nice price. I'm definitely going to go back! They also have free delivery and take out available!
google avatar

Rudie M.

Yelp
This place will be my new regular mex restaurant for a Friday afternoon! I ordered two Sopes (al pastor and carne asada) that were big and stacked with ingredients. They both came with the regular toppings (ie beans, cheese, lettuce) but the slices of avocado were my favorite! One Sope was enough to fill me up. The salsas (green tomatillo and red-chipotle) were spicy but not too over bearing. The al pastor came with fine bits of pineapple that gave it a sweet contrast to the savory al pastor. The thick tortilla dough had the consistency of freshly handmade tortillas that didn't come apart like frozen or brittle tortillas. Customer service from Angeles was attentive but not overwhelming. We conversed shortly at the end which made me feel like I was appreciated and not like just another customer.
google avatar

Vanndavy S.

Yelp
Food is well seasoned, reasonably portioned and fairly priced. Staff are friendly. Currently only accepting cash. This place met all my expectations for taste and quality so far !
google avatar

Jay A.

Yelp
Finally a new Mexican restaurant that rivals our favorite Los Gallos . Try their very fresh homemade guacamole and the sopa poblano. To die for. I hope this place stays around.
google avatar

Heather C.

Yelp
It's pretty hard to find a local spot with really good al pastor tacos but the ones from here are bomb. Chips salsa and guac is all a1 too
google avatar

Peiying L.

Yelp
Try their gorditas! They are super tasty and served like a sandwich with a crunch. Their guacamole is really good as well. Super lucky they opened in the south philly area. Have been back multiple times already!
google avatar

Monica O.

Yelp
Stopped in here on a whim a couple weeks ago actually but, let me tell you...I can't get this place out of my mind. Fresh tortilla chips and salsa verde get us off to a great start, as there are tiny pieces of avocado in the salsa and the chips were fresh! Ordered the chicken and carnitas soft tacos. I get mine traditional style which is with just cilantro and onions and a little spritz of lime. So flavorful! Washed it down with a Sidral (apple soda) and I was a very happy camper. Will definitely be back, hopefully on Taco Tuesday when tacos are discounted.
google avatar

Scott C.

Yelp
We live right around the corner from them, and they are great! I've ordered the Chile Rellenos and the Mole Poblano, and both were delicious. I grew up on my Godmothers Mole Poblano, and La Canasta gets this dish right! Great flavor, and the chicken is falling off the bone, tender, perfectly cooked!

Michele A.

Yelp
Food is good and delivery is fast, but I ordered guacamole and only received tortilla chips. Also, no sauces included with your order. Maybe it was an off night.

Leslie B.

Yelp
La Canasta has been our go-to takeout restaurant in the Whitman/Pennsport neighborhood since it opened (I wanna say right before the pandemic? But that could be wrong). Everything we've ever ordered from here has been fresh and delicious. My 2 year old son happily makes a meal out of their rice, beans and guacamole, and my husband and I have explored their menu and are always happy. My usual order is shrimp tostadas - not on the menu but they're wonderful! Filling but not too heavy. So glad to have them nearby!!!
google avatar

Tom H.

Yelp
Was just here for a quick lunch with a large group. Everything was really delicious ! The guacamole, chips and green salsa were all so fresh! The spicy mango wings are outstanding. Can't wait to get back for a look at the dinner menu.

Josh S.

Yelp
This place opened recently, and I'm always happy to see a new Mexican place in the neighborhood. Needless to say, the food is amazing. Big portions, wonderful seasoning and spices. For an appetizer, we got a small order of guacamole and chips. Hand made chips, fresh guac, couldn't stop eating them. For dinner I had the tacos al pastor, perfectly cooked, just moist enough to enjoy without dripping. My fiancée had the enchiladas Rojas, again perfect sauce, great consistency, great flavors. But the best thing was our friend, who got the sopes with chicken. It was so good I almost stole it from her. I'm definitely coming back and ordering some for myself. Add in the friendly service, and a great selection of Mexican sodas and beverages, and La Canasta is a winner. Next time I'm bringing my own pitcher of margaritas (BYOB!).

Martin P.

Yelp
Delicious food in local place in south philly. Been there once each week and try something new each time (never disappointed).
google avatar

Julia R.

Yelp
Good authentic Mexican! Staff is very helpful and friendly. Highly recommend their fish tacos and tacos de canasta. Glad to have this place in the neighborhood

Iam I.

Yelp
Best food, reasonable prices, kind staff. Never spoke to a person who did not totally love this place and hope it stays around for a long time.

Lauren B.

Yelp
Authentic food with amazing flavor. The mole sauce is one of the best in the city. The enchiladas are a go to order, both the veggie and chicken are awesome.
google avatar

Marion F.

Yelp
Excellent BYOB addition to the neighborhood! The nachos with steak and chorizo are my current favorite but I haven't had anything I didn't like. Friendly staff and food is very fresh. They make everything to order which takes a little longer but it's always exactly what I want. I love this place and hope it sticks around.
google avatar

Shenny D.

Yelp
Great guacamole and homemade hot sauce. Had the shrimp tacos! It was fresh and seasoned well. Great neighborhood spot.
google avatar

Mary N.

Yelp
The food is authentic and was really good. Staff is really friendly and accommodating. They don't accept cards yet, FYI. BYOB

Miah M.

Yelp
Love this new place! My dad, boyfriend, and I went and loved the ambiance. The food was incredible and they had great portions that matched the pricing really well! We will definitely be regulars as we live right up the street!

Christa M.

Yelp
Very tasty food, the guacamole is delicious and the food tastes really fresh. It's a BYOB and the owner is lovely. We tried a variety of dishes and everything was good. The restaurant was bigger than expected and can fit groups.

Andrew C.

Yelp
The al pastor sope was as good as I've had in Philly. The meat was tender and flavorful. All of the ingredients were fresh. Great local addition to the neighborhood.

Nick R.

Yelp
Great meal. Very reasonable and everything was delicious. Make sure to try the soup, it was one of the best I've ever had.