Our Top Mexican Spots
Let's get one thing straight: if you asked me to eat Mexican food every single day for the rest of my life, I wouldn't even hesitate. I'd just need to know if we're starting with the enchiladas or the tacos. From hole-in-the-wall family spots serving recipes passed down through generations to modern taquerias putting their own spin on classics, Reno's Mexican food scene is seriously impressive. We've eaten our way through countless salsas, debated the merits of street tacos versus loaded ones, and might have shed a tear or two over particularly perfect mole. Here are the spots that have us coming back again and again – the ones where the tortillas are always fresh, the guacamole is made to order, and the salsa makes you break a sweat (in the best possible way).
Taco Shop
811 S. Center Street
Reno, NV 89501
Don't let the no-frills name fool you – 'Taco Shop' is the kind of place that proves sometimes the best things in life really are that simple. Tucked away in an alley like some delicious secret, this hole-in-the-wall spot serves up street tacos that would make your abuela proud (if she wasn't too busy ordering seconds). Every taco is a masterclass in simplicity and flavor, from traditional offerings to a cauliflower option that might just convert the most devoted carnivores. Fair warning: they don't mess around with the spice levels here. Grab some guacamole – it's not just a topping, it's a survival strategy for your taste buds. Trust us, though: the flavor is worth the fire.
2. Anna’s Taqueria
271 Wonder Street
Reno, NV 89502
Step into Anna's Taqueria and prepare for a choose-your-own-adventure of Mexican delights. Start your day with chilaquiles that'll make you forget all about your basic breakfast routine (or a Churro Pancake that's basically dessert in disguise), then swing back later for the tacos that locals can't stop raving about. And because they know what the people want, they've got cocktails ready to turn your taco Tuesday into a proper fiesta. It's the kind of cozy spot that makes you wonder if you should keep it to yourself – but since we're here to spill Reno's secrets, consider this your insider tip.
3. Bertha Miranda’s Cantina
336 Mill Street
Reno, NV 89501
Some restaurants are institutions for a reason, and Bertha Miranda's has earned its crown. Serving up family recipes straight from Chihuahua since before many of us were born, this is where you go when you're craving that classic, soul-satisfying Tex-Mex comfort. We're talking enchiladas wearing their cheese like a cozy blanket, fajitas that make a grand entrance (listen for the sizzle!), and a flan that disappears faster than your winter blues. Sure, it's a bit off the tourist track, but that's part of its charm – this is where generations of Reno locals have been getting their Mexican food fix, and one bite will show you why they keep coming back.
4. Mexcal
516 S. Virginia Street
Reno, NV 89501
Forget everything you know about 'cursed' restaurant locations – Mexcal has broken the spell with style. While previous spots came and went faster than your New Year's resolutions, this place proved that great food can conquer any superstition. Think California-cool meets Mexican soul: fresh, vibrant tacos loaded with enough cilantro to make herb-haters run for the hills (you've been warned). Sure, it's got that polished San Francisco hipster vibe, but don't let the sleek design fool you – the kitchen delivers flavors as bold as the decor. And those cocktails? Let's just say their mixologists aren't just playing around. This is where tradition meets modern flair, and spoiler alert: modern flair is winning.
5. El Adobe Cafe
55 W. Arroyo Street
Reno, NV 89509
El Adobe might not win any beauty contests from the outside, but isn't that always where you find the best Mexican food? Tucked into a strip mall that's seen better decades, this family-run spot serves up the kind of enchiladas that make you want to hug the chef. The salsa arrives warm (old school style), the chips never seem to run out (though you'll certainly try), and the chile rellenos are stuffed with enough cheese to make Wisconsin jealous. Don't skip their horchata – it's made fresh daily and tastes like someone's abuela is in the kitchen whispering ancient secrets into each batch.