The best Mexican restaurants across SA

Cape Town

El Burro, Green Point
This is probably Cape Town’s favourite Mexican establishment in town. The ingredients are top quality and the food is consistently good. They are opening up a Claremont branch in the coming months so keep an eye out for that. But for now, visit the Green Point branch, and don’t forget to try their proper Mexican tequilas. 

Taqueria, Tamboerskloof
This is the little sister of El Burro specialising in soft tacos. They really know how to make a traditional taco that any Mexican would be impressed with. The fillings include crispy fried fish, roasted cauliflower, chilorio pork and there are daily specials. The great thing about this spot is that you order per taco so if you want one or five, its up to you. 

Del Mar, Camps Bay
We are used to Mexican restaurants being very casual with quickly prepared food that is fairly simple and to the point, but Del Mar offers diners a more elevated Mexican experience taking the food and preparation up a notch. Brought to you by Bukhara, Del Mar offers modern Mexican cuisine in a stylish setting overlooking Camps Bay beach. 

Joburg

Perron, Illovo
This place has a real passion for authentic Mexican cuisine. Situated in pretty Illovo they have great outdoor seating for those warm days. Perron serves all the Mexican favourites like quesdilas, jalepeno poppers, tacos and burritos. 

Mama Mexicana, Maboneng
A classic Mexican taqueria in a stylish industrial-like building. Situated in the trendy Arts on Main, Mama Mexicana will satisfy your chilli popper and nacho desires. Afterwards why not wonder around the galleries or the market. 

La Santa Muerte, Melville
A fairly new addition to the Melville hot-and-happening scene and brought to you by the people that own Hells Kitchen. Its an edgy bar and restaurant combined with excellent nachos and all things fried and Mexican. 

Chiapas, Rosebank
Situated in The Zone, Rosebank, Chiapas offers a fast-food-style build-your-own Mexican dish. They have all the options: burritos, burrito bowls, soft and hard tacos, salad and nachos – its up to you! Its a great place for a quick, quality meal. 

Durban

Taco Zulu, Mornignside
This is a party venue of note on Florida Road, however they do serve up some great Mexican food and sushi and are well known for their cocktails. It’s not your conventional authentic Mexican eatery, but they mix up the Mexican with classic comfort dishes and offer serious specials throughout the week.

El Toro, Durban North
Keen for a Mexican fiesta? Well then this is your place. And not only do they specialise in strong Mexican drinks but also strong Mexican flavour and authentic food. El Toro have a wide selection of burritos, tacos and nachos. 

Pretoria

El Pistolero
We cannot deny the great name of this spot, meaning ‘The Gunfighter’. One of the very few Mexican spots in Pretoria, this gem serves bright, beautifully presented authentic soft tacos and the ever popular churros. 

Jo Mexican
A rustic, relaxed Mexican eatery with great tacos specials on Tuesdays.