A Guide to Nashville’s Exceptional Mexican Restaurants
"Owners Jose and Maria Cepeda cook up fabulous tacos, pupusas, and tlayudas out of a small unassuming red and orange concrete block building in the Nations. It’s a saucy spot that’s decked out with earthy Mexican wares. You’ll want to check out La Juquilita’s rich Oaxacan mole and spicy chile and verde salsas in dishes like the chicken mole enchiladas and a machete. You can also place your order online for delivery or pick up." - Clara Wang, Jackie Gutierrez-Jones
"This unassuming orange building in the Nations serves some of Nashville’s top tacos. Owners Jose and Maria Cepeda also welcome diners (he takes orders, she cooks) with solid pupusas and tlayudas (a traditional Oaxacan dish served on a toasted tortilla loaded up with toppings) that only add to the appeal. Ask for the chili and the verde sauces; both are nicely spicy. Just remember to bring cash." - Jackie Gutierrez-Jones, Eater Staff
"A local favorite and repeat mention on the Essential 38 list, this unassuming taqueria is terrific. Expect homemade dishes with simple flavors and ingredients, and fill up on tacos, tortas, empanadas, and burritos for less than ten bucks. It is no surprise that the no-frills family establishment only takes cash and doesn’t serve booze. Plan accordingly." - Kellie Walton, Alex Hendrickson
Don't go by the outside appearance, inside is traditional Mexican goodness! I had two chicken tacos made in the traditional style. Some Americans might refer to them as street tacos. Simple ingredients, flavorful mildly spiced Chicken, cilantro, onions and lime. $6.00 for two. I specifically requested nothing hot spicy and these Tacos were perfect for me. The menu offers a great variety of options, and you can choose to dine in or take out.
Country Girl
Google
Family owned spot. They take time in preparing their food. At first my thought was gosh they are expensive to be such a small place, but then when I received my food, it was alot of food. Very well prepared. This is true authentic food.
Cynthia Willett
Google
Small local business. I was disappointed that they provided inexpensive plastic forks and knives. Menu is very limited and food was good but certainly wouldn't go out of my way to go there.
Daniel Veliciu
Google
It doesn’t get more authentic than this! One of the best taco joints in Nashville!
Diane Stewart
Google
We ordered take out. The food is delicious. Everything is seasoned to perfection. Food is reasonably priced and serving size is reasonable. The place is small, so it is not recommended for groups.
nikkisus
Google
It definitely is authentic mexican food and the place has such a nice feel to it. The food is delicious and fair price for the amount of food you receive. The tlayuda is my go-to and is big enough to share with 2-3 people. Only word of caution is there are no prices listed so it’s best to ask before to avoid confusion when it’s time to pay.
Ruth Arnell
Google
An amazing hole-in-the-wall place with amazing food and rolls of paper towels on the tables. Get a machete or the mole. You'll thank me.
Shobin Thomas
Google
It's a cozy and homey place with food that is very well made. One of the best places that I have stumbled upon in Nashville that gives affordable Spanish/Mexican food. The atmosphere is very earthy and might not be chic. But the food is definitely worth it. It's a good option for a quick bite and satisfying Spanish/Mexican food. Will recommend to friends and family.