When it comes to Columbia’s Mexican food scene, there are more restaurants to try than there is time to try them all. From a quick bite to takeout heaven to date night perfection, check out a few picks (among many) to get Mexican food in Columbia SC.
For more casual atmosphere, Cocos & Beer Authentic Mexican Grill is a great choice. Known for its fajitas and other familiar eats like taco carne asada, quesadillas and enchiladas. Tucked into a small shopping center on Beltline Blvd., you’ll find Moctezumas Taqueria. Here they’re serving up authentic Mexican dishes. Think – huaraches, flautas, chiles poblanos, and mole. Get there early to snag popular menu items before they run out for the day.
From a local taco truck to one of Columbia’s most talked about Mexican restaurants, Tacos Nayarit features handmade tortillas, fresh salsa, and a list of choices that looms large has everyone coming back for more. In that same vein, Real Mexico Restaurant serves up what it promises – fresh, simple, real Mexican dishes. You can find their food truck at local festivals or head to the restaurant for a robust menu of Mexican favorites. It’s a small space but totally worth the wait.
Looking for a more contemporary casual experience? We’ve got that here, too.
New to Columbia SC is Masa serving craft cocktails with classic Mexican street food. Masa, the heart and soul Mexican cuisine, takes center stage on the menu, showcasing its versatility. From handmade tortillas to savor tamales, huaraches and molotes, every dish is crafted with authenticity and masa in mind. Coa Agaveria y Cocina features small plates for sharing. Sip on a uniquely crafted cocktail made with hand-squeezed fruit juices and fresh garnishes. Add in tapes with elevated ingredients like seared tuna, pork belly and there’s even a vegan menu.
Possibly one of Irmo’s best kept secrets, Don Tequilas Mexican Grill and Cantina has an upbeat atmosphere plus a food menu that fuses traditional favorites with unique offerings. It may sound like a Tequilas Bowl is a jumbo margarita, but this dish satisfies all your Mexican cravings in one bite filled to the brim with rice, black beans, veggies, Pico de Gallo, avocado, and chicken, steak or shrimp, grilled just right. Their menu is sure to satisfy any craving. Cantina 76 continues to be a popular local favorite, and Columbia SC is home to the original on Devine Street with another in the Main Street District. Cantina 76 has a loyal following that will talk about the “Tres Hombres” sampler all day – referred to as “the trio” by locals. It features their house salsa, queso, and fresh guacamole. In addition to their list of specialty tacos, they offer weekly chef special that use fresh, seasonal ingredients like spiced cauliflower taco or surf & turf.
Located in Lexington, Brothers & Beer is a California-style Mexican restaurant featuring a salsa bar equipped with everything from mild to spicy to bean-based salsa. Here you can order up plates that are literally sizzling like the Saltillo Sizzling Salad, a skillet of chicken, steak, or shrimp and a dynamite salad tossed tableside in a house made vinaigrette.
Check out Columbia's full list of Mexican food and other cuisine here.