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The Best Mexican Restaurants in Washington DC

Mexican food is highly flavorful and perfect for a night out with friends. Mexican food is particularly diverse, and the options are endless with fillings for dishes such as enchiladas, burritos, and tacos! 

It can certainly take multiple attempts to find the best Mexican restaurant in any city. We have made that task easier for you in the Washington, D.C., area. 

group of friends enjoying mexican cuisine in washington dc

Continue reading for our roundup of the best Mexican restaurants in the Washington, D.C., area. Get ready to grab some friends for some chips and salsa, and the best margaritas in town! 


Oyamel 

401 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20004
Phone: 202-628-1005
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Oyamel is a top Mexican restaurant in Washington, D.C. Located in the Penn Quarter area of D.C., Oyamel should be on your list for every reason. 

Celebrity Chef and Humanitarian José Andrés opened Oyamel in 2007, and it has been a favorite Mexican restaurant in the D.C. area ever since. This vibrant and colorful restaurant is reminiscent of the atmosphere in Mexico City. Some favorite dishes at Oyamel include the Tamal Verde, shredded chicken with tomatillo, chili, and garlic. Don’t sleep on the desserts at Oyamel! Their boozy hot chocolate is a must, every time. 

Many diners are well aware that whatever Chef José Andrés touches turns to gold. It should come to no surprise that Oyamel has received a Bib Gourmand in 2017 and 2018. A new favorite at Oyamel? Cocktail kits to go. This has been popular of late, so make sure you grab some prior to leaving. They are also offering Party Packages which includes items such as taco kits. 


Mi Vida

98 District Square SW, Washington, DC 20024
Phone: 202-516-4656
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Located in the Wharf area of Washington, D.C.,Mi Vida is a loved Mexican restaurant within the District. 

With spectacular views, Mi Vida is located in an area that is conducive to a night out on the town following a delicious dinner or happy hour. When dining at Mi Vida, bring a group and order the Sabores de Mexico. Served family style for a larger group, you will experience all of the flavors of Mexico via this feast. 

Chef Roberto Santibañez is a native of Mexico City and brings the authentic flair of Mexican food to Washington, D.C. In addition to their extensive dinner menu and happy hour, Mi Vida offers brunch, as well, and it is a must try. 

See also  The Top 10 Pizza Spots in Washington DC

Taqueria el Poblano 

2401 Columbia Pike, Arlington, VA 22204
Phone: 703-271-8979
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Located in both Arlington, Virginia and the Del Ray area of Alexandria, Virginia, Taqueria Poblano is a true neighborhood favorite. 

A casual Mexican restaurant, seating is limited in their Del Ray location, though more spacious in their Arlington locations. While they are currently operating on a somewhat limited menu, their burritos are currently being offered and are not to be missed. They are huge, and they are able to accommodate vegetarians with the vegetable burrito as well. 

Taqueria Poblano had won best Margarita for five years, and they are truly delicious! They are made with fresh lime juice, and makes you feel as though you are on a Mexican vacation! 


Guapos 

3050 K Street NW Suite WG60, Washington, DC 20007
Phone: 202-844-5777
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With several locations spread across Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, and Maryland,  Guapos is the family owned and operated restaurant we all love. 

A fun and casual restaurant, Guapos is perfect for a night out with friends or even a laid back date night. At all locations, a must try is the Chile Con Queso. This warm cheese dip pairs perfectly with the homemade nachos. Be sure to order one of their generously sized margaritas, served frozen or on the rocks. Guapos has recently begun serving brunch, and their Chilaquiles are a fan favorite. 

One of the newest locations of Guapos is nestled on the waterfront area of Georgetown. Perfectly situated in this lively neighborhood, consider dining outside to take in the waterfront views, complete with an array of beautiful yachts and boats docked there. Reservations are highly recommended to avoid a long wait. 


Guajillo 

1727 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA 22209
Phone: 703-807-0840
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Located in the Rosslyn area of Arlington, Virginia, Guajillo is a family owned and operated restaurant that is a true favorite of Washingtonians. 

While Guajillo is a Mexican restaurant that is considered casual dining, their dishes are presented beautifully, and their restaurant is carefully decorated. Guajillo is perfect for a date night or a celebratory dinner. Guajillo is known for their “fishbowl” margaritas and other fun cocktails, including their house made sangria. The Camarones Al Ajillo, their large shrimp dish, is absolutely drool worthy and highly recommended. 

Guajillo offers spacious indoor and outdoor dining. While there is plenty of parking available in the area, you might want to consider walking or taking public transportation to this popular Mexican restaurant, as they are generous with their alcohol pours. 

See also  8 Indian Restaurants Not to Miss in Washington, DC

Lauriol Plaza 

1835 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Phone: 202-387-0035
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Located in the Dupont Circle area of Washington, D.C., Lauriol Plaza is a Mexican restaurant that  is also easily accessible from the Adams Morgan area. 

Lauriol Plaza is a somewhat upscale Mexican restaurant that has a very casual atmosphere on their outdoor patio. Lauriol Plaza attracts diners of all ages and professions, from Ambassadors attending lunch, as it is close to Embassy Row, to young professionals coming for their happy hour after work. Their seafood soup is a highlight of Lauriol Plaza, as are the Tacos Al Carbon with beef or chicken. 

With limited parking, walking or using public transportation to this lively restaurant is recommended. Lauriol Plaza offers specials almost every day, including Margarita Mondays, Mojito Wednesdays, and brunch on Sundays. 


Taco Bamba 

4000 Wilson Blvd Suite C, Arlington, VA 22203
Phone: 571-777-1477
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Located across Northern Virginia and in Rockville, Maryland, Taco Bamba is a fan favorite, especially for Taco Tuesdays. 

Taco Bamba is a fast casual  taqueria, specializing of course in – you guessed it, tacos! Inspired by Mexican street food, Taco Bamba is primarily a takeout restaurant. The Camaron is a mouthwatering baja shrimp taco and the Carnitas taco, a slow roast pork taco, are two not to leave without! If you are craving dessert, the churros at Taco Bamba are a must try! 

Taco Bamba is a popular Mexican fare restaurant, so make sure to get there early on the day you go – there is often a wait if you plan to dine during high traffic hours. 

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Written by Brian Nagele

Brian attended West Virginia University, then started his career in the IT industry before following his passion for marketing and hospitality. He has over 20 years experience in the restaurant and bar industry.

As a former restaurant owner, he knows about running a food business and loves to eat and enjoy cocktails on a regular basis. He constantly travels to new cities tasting and reviewing the most popular spots.

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