Where to Find Delicious Mexican
Wondering where to find the best Mexican food in Palm Springs? We get asked this question all the time, and it’s honestly a hard one to answer. Here in Palm Springs our Mexican restaurant options cover the spectrum from trendy foodie destinations to authentic hole-in-the-wall taquerias and everything in between. These are our recommendations for the best Mexican, with favorites noted.
Elevated Mexican
Tac/Quila
This celebrated downtown hotspot gets high marks from foodies for bold flavors, thoughtful presentation, and unexpected combinations. Inspired by Mexico’s Jalisco region, Tac/Quila’s menu includes lots of elevated classics, including street tacos with upscale fillings like lobster and seared ahi. Cocktails here are spot on, and the expansive spirits menu includes many rare tequilas and mezcals. Since you’re on vacation, we recommend starting with the flight of mini margaritas! And for dessert, don’t miss the churro ice cream sandwich. If you’re looking for a lively upscale dining experience, Tac/Quila is a great choice. Vegan and vegetarian options available. Listed in the Michelin Guide and awarded OpenTable Diners’ Choice. Reservations recommended. Open daily.
Hoja Blanca
Two brothers are dishing up some of the city’s most memorable modern Mexican fare at this laid back pop-up that takes over the kitchen at the Truss & Twine cocktail bar on Wednesday and Thursday nights. Recent highlights from the ever-changing, very limited menu include a quesadilla stuffed with oyster mushrooms, squash blossoms, and chihuahua cheese and a refreshing white shrimp aguachile in salsa negra. The beautiful plated dishes marry perfectly with Truss & Twine’s minimalist space and expertly crafted cocktails. Take a look at the website to see if the current menu selections float your boat (and to make sure the pop-up’s open days and/or location haven’t changed). Walk-in seating only, but you can call or text 760-601-5921 for info on wait times.
Clandestino
When we quizzed our team about their all-around favorites, Clandestino was named more than any other Mexican restaurant. Operated by the same couple that runs Tac/Quila, the menu at Clandestino features many of the same great plates and flavors, but in a more relaxed, open-air space with lovely views of the San Jacinto mountains. Margaritas here are as good as the food, and you’ll find a mesmerizing selection of tequilas and mezcals lining the shelves above the restaurant’s flamboyant back bar. Located off the beaten path near Marilyn and the art museum, this is a winning and deservedly popular choice any time of day. Reservations highly recommended.
Maleza
This stylish destination inside the Drift Hotel receives positive reviews for its delicious takes on Baja-inspired fusion cuisine, inventive cocktails and mocktails, and excellent service. This is a good spot to share a dinner of small plates, with lots of creative choices. The boho dining room is airy and chic, or enjoy the scene outside by the swimming pool. Open daily, reservations suggested for dinner. Tuesday Happy Hour often features live music.
Laid-Back Mexican
Low Desert/Modern Mexican
The menu at this low-key spot inside Smoke Tree Village shopping mall is inspired by Mexican street food. Mix & match your choice of street taco favorites like pork carnitas, adobo pork pastor, beef carne asada, and grilled shrimp. Or branch out and try the torta or huarache plates. Other tasty choices include burritos, bowls, enchiladas, hearty salads and a steamy tortilla soup. Vegan, vegetarian, and GF options, open daily with Happy Hour food & drink specials from 2-5pm. Both Santiago GM Kent Taylor and Twin Palms GM Adam Q. Robinson call this a favorite stop for casual Mexican. Gay-owned and operated, about a 10-minute bike ride from Santiago. On-site parking available.
El Mirasol Cocina Mexicana
Within easy walking distance from Santiago, this casual family-owned spot has been serving up tasty food, generous portions, and strong margaritas since 1985. Indoor and patio seating available. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. About a 15-minute walk south on Palm Canyon Drive, on-site parking available.
El Patio
Tucked into a colorful courtyard off the main drag downtown, this family-owned restaurant is all about authentic Mexican food made with love and served with pride. Really good margaritas, with lots of reasonably priced options on the menu including unusual flavors like house-brewed Jamaica (hibiscus flower). If you have a sweet tooth, Kent says to save room for the “churro cart” dessert… you’ll only need one for the table! Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner (closed for dinner on Sunday). The same family also runs Felipe’s, a quieter spot near the airport with equally good choices.
No-Frills Mexican
Taqueria Tlaquepaque
Locals frequent this hole-in-the-wall spot for authentic, no-frills Mexican fare. Don't miss their al pastor tacos, cooked on a traditional trompo and served with a side of grilled pineapple. Birria, barbacoa, and menudo are all on the menu. Plus ice cold Negro Modelo and frozen margaritas. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Quick bike ride or 20-minute walk from Santiago.
All About the Margaritas?
Blue Coyote Bar & Grill
For those times when the margaritas are more important than the food, Descanso’s GM Charles Zalepeski recommends Blue Coyote. Their signature Wild Coyote margarita is made with fresh lime juice and has repeatedly been voted Best Margarita in the Coachella Valley. Order it by the mug, pitcher, bucket, or quart … you can even get it delivered! This is a solid spot for a boozy happy hour, and the spacious outdoor patio is equipped with misters for sunny afternoons.
No matter your mood, we hope this guide helps you discover YOUR choice for the best Mexican restaurant in Palm Springs. ¡Buen provecho!