Sydney is the gateway to Australia and is popular with international visitors.
One reason for this popularity is the Harbour City’s acclaimed dining scene. Sydney is home to numerous peoples from around the globe who have settled and introduced their customs and food. One imported cuisine that has gone from strength to strength in recent years is the vibrant flavours of Mexico.
But where are the best Mexican restaurants in Sydney? And what are their most popular dishes?
Luckily, we’ve done the hard work for you. Read on for our guide to the best Mexican restaurants in Sydney and suggestions on what to order.
Méjico Restaurant
Location: 105 Pitt St, Sydney, NSW 2000 Ph: (02) 9230 0119
Slap bang in the Central Business District, Méjico offers some high class surroundings along with high quality Mexican food.
Though on the more expensive side, Mejico still guarantees bang for your buck as the food is fine dining level small plates that will offer you a taste of every corner of Mexico, right here in Sydney.
Méjico’s main calling card, beyond their already high quality food, is their bar selection. Mejico has a pretty extensive and broad tequila shelf, with some very knowledgeable bartenders who can talk about mezcal and mexico all day long.
Tequila isn’t your thing? Don’t worry, Méjico also has an extremely knowledgeable sommelier who will help you find the right vino for your taco. For the cosmopolitan among us, Mejico is a great choice.
If you fancy knocking out an easy Mexican dish at home, try our Best Comforting Beef Nachos Recipe
Barrio Cellar
Location: 58 Elizabeth St, Sydney, NSW 2000 Ph: (02) 8385 4383
Barrio Cellar is another hip and unique spot in the heart of Sydney that promises great food as well as vibrations. Great for a late night out, Barrio Cellar is a ‘tequileria’ and eatery that offers seasonal food and cocktails that are subject to change.
For those who don’t want the same boring menu options every saturday, Barrio Cellar is a good choice as they change their menu as their produce and goods change with the seasons.
This Mexican joint has another great selection of Tequila and Mezcal which compliments the seasonal Mexican street food they have on offer.
Located in a basement, Barrio Cellar provides a contemporary setting, designed by award winning architects, for you to enjoy your food and drink, which is both sexy and cosy.
If you’re feeling cheeky, stay a little later, or return on a Friday, to hear some local DJs provide some beats to shake your shoulders and work off some tacos.
Why not provide Mexican dishes for an event? See our Mexican Catering Foods Ideas for some inspiration
The Two Wolves
Location: Former English, Scottish & Australian Bank, 202 Broadway, Sydney, NSW 2008 Ph: (02) 8039 3595
We confess to having a bit of the soft spot for the next of our best Mexican restaurants in Sydney. Why? Because we love a more community focused eatery.
The Two Wolves are a ‘not-for-profit’ cantina that focuses on volunteer-driven social enterprise as well as being open to all kinds of patrons.
Supported by Catholic and Jesuit volunteers, there is a purity and feel good vibe while you enjoy your food. With a team of young volunteer staff you’re guaranteed to feel welcome in this humble spot.
Although, the food doesn’t disappoint. All the food on the menu is predominantly sourced from the Mexican Abuela’s of the community, so you can guarantee family cooking done right.
The menu often rotates to accommodate changes in produce and season. Many locals love this spot, find out why.
Mexican food isn’t just nachos and refried beans. Check out our Mexican Dessert Recipes.
Bar Pátron
Location: 2 Phillip St, Sydney, NSW 2000 Ph: (02) 9189 1957
Bar Pátron is a Mexican restaurant that focuses on authentic Mexican cuisine, which many customers will agree with. Their interesting menu covers lunch, dinner, and late night bites.
The menu is authentic and the drinks menu is artisanal, combining both Tequila as well as a great wine list – many suggest that this is the best Margarita in Australia.
Bar Pátron offers some sophisticated settings and dining in their restaurant which compliments their focus on authentic Mexican food. Located just by Sydney’s Circular Quay this is an interesting stop if you want some authentic food and drink from a mid range eatery.
If you have a passion for Margaritas, see our rundown of the Best Cocktail Bars in Sydney
Chula
Location: The Cresent on Bayswater, 19, Shop 7/33 Bayswater Rd, Potts Point, NSW 2011 Ph: (02) 9331 0126
It’s over to Potts Point for the next of our best Mexican restaurants in Sydney.
Chula is a modern Mexican restaurant that tries to remain true to Mexican classics while still keeping up with the modern changes to Mexican cuisine. Wth a traditional decor you truly feel like you are in Mexico.
However, when your food comes don’t expect the usual greasy street stall mess, Chula is clean and aesthetically pleasing with presentation and their take on Mexican cuisine is authentic while still revamping these classic dishes.
This is a perfect spot for those who want an authentic dining experience which has the confidence to change the classics while still honouring them – they achieve this with their classically trained Mexican chefs.
Chula is a guaranteed hit if you are in Sydney.
Wondering where to get great Mexican food in Melbourne? We’ve got you covered.
Bad Hombres
Location: 40 Reservoir St, Surry Hills, NSW 2010 Ph: 0405 274 515
Have that awkward vegan friend or family member, but still want the taste of Mexico? Don’t fear, Bad Hombres have your back. Bad Hombres is a cutesy little vegan Mexican restaurant that offers a laid back vibe to enjoy your food.
Expect all the Mexican classics of Birria, enchiladas, nachos, etc, but simply revamped with plant based goodness and vegan friendly options. Don’t expect any meat, it’s purely vegan here but many happy customers will verify that you won’t miss any meat.
With a rustic decor in the restaurant you will have all the comforts of Mexico, but with the added ability to enjoy it guilt free and not worry about its effect on your health.
This is a great joint to try if you are vegan curious, they might just make you give up meat forever.
Mexican Burrito Cantina
Location: Surry Hills Medical Centre, 567 Crown St, Surry Hills, NSW 2010 Ph: (02) 9699 2499
If you’re in Surry Hill and you would rather have some meat, we don’t blame you . Luckily, Mexican Burrito Cantina is just down the street and offers some similar food that caters for the carnivorous among us.
The food at this Cantina is 100% authentic Mexican – made by real Mexicans, no imposters.
Mexican Burrito Cantina wants to get the traditional classics right for a reasonable price.
The food is fresh and made in-house whilst the rustic chic of the interior makes you feel like you’re getting served by the roadside in Mexico. And we mean that as a compliment.
The decor and vibe here is second to none, if you want a really authentic experience give this cantina a look. It’s one of the best Mexican restaurants in Sydney.
Fancy eating Thai tonight? These are our top Thai Restaurants in Sydney
Chica Bonita, Manly
Location: 9 The Corso, Manly, NSW 2095 Ph: (02) 9976 5255
If you fancy a trip down to Manly, Chica Bonita will make it worth your while. This modern and chic restaurant will have you covered from lunch until dinner. Why there’s even a drinks menu to take you into the later hours.
You can truly feel like you’re in Mexico if you come here after the beach. With sand still in between your toes, you can enjoy some well reviewed margaritas alongside some Mexican classics that will fill your stomach after a day of swimming.
Many locals regard this as a hidden gem. However, it’s also a fabulous find for tourists. With its cosy, yet cool, decor it really is a well-rounded eating experience that offers some great beer, tequila, and wine options to take you into the later hours.
Does the thought of an afternoon at Manly Beach make you hungry for seafood? Give our Best Seafood Restaurants in Sydney a read.
El Camino Cantina
Location: 18 Argyle St, The Rocks, NSW 2000
At El Camino they do family style Tex-Mex food that will satisfy large groups. It cultivates a more laid back environment where families can share stories across their tables.
The Tex-Mex menu offers some great combinations of Mexican and American cuisine. If you want buffalo wings alongside your burritos, then this is the place to be.
With plenty of Taco Tuesdays and Wing Wednesdays you’ll get value for your money here as well as some fun and vibrant surroundings. If you want some good vibes and great food, without having to act out and dress up, then El Camino is for you.
Barrio Chino
Location: 28-30 Bayswater Rd, Potts Point, NSW 2011 Ph: (02) 8021 9750
A creation of famous restauranteurs Peter Lew and Nicole Gallway, who have had success in China and US as well as Australia, Barrio Chino offers Mexican street for that has been back engineered by authentic Mexican chefs into something new and different.
Nachos are out and revamped street food is in.
The decor is a match for the bold and ambitious cooking. However, it works as well as the food does and offers a certain rawness that pairs well with the bold flavours on the plates.
Barrio Chino is the place to go to impress your friends and family, and push the boat out ready for a culinary and atmospheric dining experience.
We love the spice and zing of Vietnamese cuisine. Here are some of our top Vietnamese Restaurants in Sydney
Editor’s Update: Sadly, we’ve heard that Barrio Chino has closed its doors in Potts Point.
Baja Cantina And Beer Garden
Location: 43-45 Glebe Point Rd, Glebe, NSW 2037 Ph: (02) 9571 4540
This little spot is a comforting eatery and drinking hole that won’t disappoint. The Baja Cantina seeks to serve creative and wholesome Mexican food that has a Californian twist.
They offer both an á la carte menu and a set menu. This makes it a good dining choice for both a romantic dinner and a large group.
The beer garden here is a welcome point of difference. Obviously, it’s best in summer, but it really hits the Mexican cantina vibe right on the head.
This is a great place for hungry families or a get together with friends as well as an intimate date. Baja Cantina is a versatile eatery that will satisfy all customers with its welcoming smells and staff.
Popular and serving tasty food, this is one of the finest Mexican restaurants in Sydney.
Guzman Y Gomez
Location: 175 King St, Newtown, NSW 2042 Ph: (02) 9517 1533 See Website For Further Locations
Guzman Y Gomez has exploded out of the blocks in recent years, growing from a handful of outlets to 151 and counting.
This little eatery really gets Mexican street food right. With outside seating and food served over the counter, you can guarantee an authentic Mexican eating experience.
Putting passion into every ingredient, Guzman Y Gomez guarantees real Mexican flavour in each dish. Their menu consists of the Mexican classics but leaves room for you to customise how you see fit.
GYG also offers some more modern twists on the Mexican classics such as burrito bowls and Cali burritos which help to make all feel welcome, including great vegetarian options.
Be prepared to eat in their outside dining area, just like at the Mexican roadside, as they can’t offer indoor seating. Or enjoy while seeing the sites of Sydney.
Sometimes, only red meat will do. These are our Best Steaks in Sydney.
El Loco At Excelsior
Location: 64 Foveaux St, Surry Hills, NSW 2010 Ph: (02) 9114 7339 See Website For Further Locations
Moving on with our rundown of the best Mexican restaurants in Sydney, we’re popping into Surry Hills
El Loco really embraces the Mexican vibe, serving restaurant grade cuisine in a dressed down environment they get most things right here.
Their menu offers hand held Mexican classics that have been given the restaurant treatment while still remaining affordable to all.
The decor and al fresco seating indoors feels very authentic and helps enhance the humble yet fulfilling experience at El Loco with music and colour. El Loco feels warm and welcome to all kinds of diners and drinkers.
Open till 3am this is one for the night owls, on top of their food they also boast some great local DJs on the weekends. With over 100 types of Tequila and Mezcal to enjoy with your food, you’re sure to have a great time.
Perhaps to like to drink your Mezcal with a view? Check out our Best Rooftop Bars in Sydney
Flying Fajita Sistas Mexican Kitchen
Location: 65 Glebe Point Rd, Glebe, NSW 2037 Ph: (02) 99552 6522 See website For Further Locations
This up and coming restaurant has been reviewed across the Sydney press and for good reason. The Flying Fajita Sistas use the best produce available during their season and rely on imported spices you don’t usually see outside of the US and Mexico.
Chef and owner Joe Slakey focuses on the nuances that classical European cuisine has contributed to Mexican cooking. Given such an innovative approach, we obviously had to put the Flying Fajita Sistas amongst our best Mexican restaurants in Sydney.
However, know they are authentic as the Mexican music flows out from the kitchen alongside the clash and clank of a busy kitchen.
The menu is simple and easy to follow, accommodating for all with vegan and vegetarian options alongside the meat-based Mexican classics.
It’s important to start the day with a good feed. These are our go to Places for Breakfast in Sydney
Los Vida
Location: Westfield Sydney, Level 6, Westfield Shopping Centre, 188 Pitt St, Sydney, NSW 2000 Ph: (02) 9232 7698
Expect traditional Mexican cooking whipped up in a buzzing restaurant with colourful surroundings. Some claim this is the most authentic Mexican in Sydney with its flavours and fillings staying true to the classics.
The chefs pride themselves on serving tasty food that isn’t harmful to your health by being overly calorific while also not emptying your wallet. Expect an attractive and extensive drinks menu inspired by Mexico.
The Mexican inspired desserts here are also highly recommended and set them apart from other Mexican inspired eateries – so leave some room for pudding.
Looking for a great kebab? Check out our Best Kebab Shops in Sydney
Editor’s Update: Sadly, we’ve heard that Los Vida has closed. As this is the case, why not dine at this spot instead…?
El Primo Sanchez
Location: 27-33 Oxford St, Paddington, NSW 2021
Cocktails and tacos from the team who brought us drinking den Maybe Sammy? Yes, please!
With orange tiling and mirrorballs strung from the ceiling, the vibe is very much FUN! Heck, there’s even a dinky karaoke room.
But for us, a Mexican restaurant lies or dies on the strength of its cocktails and the zing of its tacos. And thankfully, El Primo Sanchez get them both right.
The Tropical Coffee Margarita is a great spin on the much-loved Espresso Martini. Here, Patron Silver, Mr Black, Paranubes Oaxaca Rum, Mango, Agave & Lime combine to much your palette dance.
Expect more surprises in the food section too. The Roasted Pumpkin Taco has great texture thanks to Caramelised Macadamia Macha & Sunflower Seeds. Meanwhile, one of the national emblems stars in the Kangaroo Milanesa. Matched with Salsa Guacamolada & Chiles Toreados, it’s a winner.
All-in-all, El Primo Sanchez is the kind of place where you meet friends for a drink and end up staying all evening.
This is why I decided to set up my blog, Eatability, to share the best food and drink spots in Australia with as many people as possible. Hi, my name is Dylan Cole, and I moved to Australia five years ago from England, UK.
Through this blog, I will be sharing and recommending some of my favorite places you need to visit, such as where to find the best pizza in Adelaide, and the best bakery in Brisbane. Whatever food you are fancying, I have got you covered!
- Orange Cake - April 23, 2024
- Best Cake Shops, Cake Delivery and Takeaway Cakes in Melbourne - April 23, 2024
- The 15 Best Mexican Restaurants In Melbourne - April 23, 2024
