Introduction
Asheville might be celebrated for its thriving craft brewery scene and innovative farm-to-table experiences, but tucked away amongst the trendy bistros and Southern comfort food establishments lies a vibrant and often overlooked culinary treasure: its Mexican food scene. Forget the predictable chain restaurants; Asheville’s Mexican eateries are serving up authentic flavors, bold spices, and innovative dishes that will transport your taste buds south of the border. From humble taquerias dishing out street-style tacos to sophisticated restaurants offering refined regional specialties, Asheville’s Mexican restaurants offer something for every palate and budget.
This guide aims to take you on a flavorful journey through the best Mexican restaurants Asheville has to offer, highlighting the spots that truly stand out for their authenticity, quality ingredients, inviting atmosphere, and overall dining experience. We’ll explore the stories behind the restaurants, the chefs who pour their heart and soul into their creations, and the dishes that keep locals and visitors alike coming back for more. So, grab your appetite and get ready to discover the best Mexican food Asheville, North Carolina, has to offer.
How We Picked the Best Mexican Food Asheville Has
Before we dive into our top picks, it’s important to understand the criteria we used to select the best Mexican restaurants in Asheville. We didn’t just randomly pick a few spots; we considered several key factors to ensure a well-rounded and reliable list.
First and foremost, authenticity was paramount. We sought out restaurants that strive to honor traditional Mexican flavors and cooking techniques, avoiding overly Americanized versions of classic dishes. Ingredient quality was also crucial. We looked for establishments that prioritize fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, ensuring a vibrant and flavorful experience.
The menu variety played a significant role. The best restaurants offer a balance of beloved classics, such as tacos, enchiladas, and burritos, alongside unique regional specialties and innovative creations that showcase the chef’s culinary talent.
Of course, the overall atmosphere and dining experience were considered. We sought restaurants with an inviting ambiance, whether it’s a cozy, family-run taqueria or a more upscale dining room with a lively bar scene. And finally, we factored in value – the price point relative to the quality and portion size. The best restaurants offer a delicious and satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
We also considered customer reviews and reputation within the Asheville community, paying attention to restaurants that consistently receive positive feedback and have earned a loyal following. Finally, we love to find the human stories behind the food and have tried to highlight restaurants where the chef or owners are passionate about sharing their food culture with Asheville.
Top Mexican Restaurants Asheville Offers
Now, let’s explore some of the best spots the Asheville Mexican food scene has.
La Rumba: A Taste of Authentic Mexican Flavors
Tucked away in a seemingly unassuming location, La Rumba is a true hidden gem that has garnered a devoted following for its authentic Mexican cuisine. This family-owned and operated restaurant prides itself on using traditional recipes passed down through generations, creating dishes that are bursting with flavor and reminiscent of home-cooked meals.
Their tacos al pastor are a must-try, marinated in a secret blend of spices and cooked on a vertical spit, just like in the streets of Mexico City. The thinly sliced pork is tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned, served on warm corn tortillas with fresh cilantro and onions. Another standout dish is their mole poblano, a complex and rich sauce made with a variety of chiles, spices, and chocolate. It’s a labor of love that results in a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
The atmosphere at La Rumba is warm and welcoming, with colorful decor and friendly service. It’s a casual and unpretentious setting that invites you to relax and enjoy the food. The price range is very reasonable, making it an excellent option for a delicious and affordable meal. Located on the edge of downtown Asheville, this spot is accessible but still a bit off the beaten path. La Rumba represents everything that is great about the Asheville Mexican food scene.
Nine Mile: Caribbean-Inspired Mexican Fusion
While not strictly traditional, Nine Mile offers a unique Caribbean-inspired twist on Mexican cuisine that is worth experiencing. This Asheville institution has three locations and has become a local favorite for its creative and flavorful dishes.
While they draw inspiration from all over the Caribbean, there is a strong Mexican influence. Everything is served with rice and beans and offers the option of adding a protein to each dish. Nine Mile offers a host of sauces to accompany your meal, including jalapeño-lime, a coconut-cilantro cream, jerk, and chipotle-peanut. The atmosphere is lively and vibrant, with colorful artwork and a bustling energy. Be prepared for a wait, especially during peak hours, but it’s well worth it.
Nine Mile provides a unique and unforgettable dining experience blending different cultural influences into something that’s distinctly Asheville. This is not your grandmother’s Mexican restaurant but it is delicious!
Tacos Jalisco: Street Food Done Right
For a true taste of authentic street-style tacos, look no further than Tacos Jalisco. This food truck turned brick-and-mortar restaurant has earned a reputation for serving up some of the best tacos in Asheville.
Their menu is simple but focused, featuring a variety of classic taco fillings, such as carne asada, carnitas, pollo, and lengua. The ingredients are fresh, and the meats are cooked to perfection, resulting in tacos that are bursting with flavor. The tortillas are also made fresh daily, adding to the overall authenticity of the experience.
One of the most popular choices is the carne asada taco, with tender grilled steak, cilantro, and onions, served on a warm corn tortilla. The carnitas are equally delicious, slow-cooked pork that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Don’t forget to try their homemade salsas, which range from mild to fiery.
Tacos Jalisco offers a casual and unpretentious atmosphere, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. The prices are incredibly affordable, making it a great option for lunch or a late-night snack. With several locations across Asheville, Tacos Jalisco is always within reach when you’re craving authentic street tacos. If you only try one taco spot on this list, make it this one.
Salsa’s: Upscale Mexican Fusion and Tequila Galore
If you are looking for a more elevated dining experience, Salsa’s is the place to go. Situated in the heart of downtown Asheville, this vibrant restaurant is known for its modern takes on Mexican classics as well as its extensive tequila selection.
The menu at Salsa’s is more creative and upscale than some of the other restaurants mentioned, with dishes like grilled fish tacos with pineapple salsa and chipotle aioli, and roasted duck enchiladas with mole sauce. They also offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. The ingredients are sourced locally whenever possible, ensuring the highest quality and freshness.
Salsa’s is also famous for its extensive tequila list, featuring a wide variety of blancos, reposados, and añejos. Their knowledgeable bartenders can help you find the perfect tequila to complement your meal, and they also offer a creative cocktail menu with unique tequila-based concoctions.
The atmosphere at Salsa’s is upscale and lively, with colorful decor and a bustling energy. The prices are higher than some of the other restaurants on this list, but the quality of the food and the overall experience make it worth it for a special occasion. When the weather is nice, be sure to sit outside.
Pupuseria Paty: El Salvadoran Meets Mexican Perfection
While technically El Salvadoran, Pupuseria Paty has become a beloved fixture in Asheville’s Latin food scene, earning its place on this list for its delicious pupusas and its welcoming atmosphere. Pupusas are thick flatbreads stuffed with a variety of fillings, such as cheese, beans, and meat.
At Pupuseria Paty, you can choose from a variety of pupusa fillings, including revueltas (pork, cheese, and beans), queso (cheese), and frijoles (beans). The pupusas are served with curtido, a fermented cabbage slaw, and salsa roja, a mild tomato-based salsa. They also offer a variety of other El Salvadoran dishes, such as yuca frita (fried cassava) and platanos fritos (fried plantains).
In addition to the pupusas, Pupuseria Paty also offers a selection of Mexican dishes, such as tacos and burritos. The food is always fresh, flavorful, and made with love.
The atmosphere at Pupuseria Paty is casual and welcoming, with friendly service and a relaxed vibe. The prices are incredibly affordable, making it a great option for a quick and satisfying meal.
Beyond the Restaurants: Asheville’s Mexican Food Scene
Asheville’s Mexican food scene is constantly evolving, with new restaurants and food trucks popping up all the time. While this guide highlights some of the best options, there are many other hidden gems waiting to be discovered. And don’t forget about the margaritas! Most Mexican restaurants in Asheville offer a variety of margarita options, from classic lime to creative fruit-infused flavors. And local beers pair perfectly with spicy Mexican fare.
Conclusion
Asheville’s Mexican food scene might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Asheville’s cuisine, but it’s something truly unique. From traditional taquerias to innovative fusion restaurants, there’s something for every palate and budget. Whether you’re craving authentic street tacos, sophisticated regional specialties, or a Caribbean-inspired twist on Mexican classics, Asheville has it all. So, next time you’re in town, venture beyond the usual and explore these culinary gems. Your taste buds will thank you! Explore the spots mentioned and leave us a comment about your Asheville Mexican favorites!
