Introduction
Burlington, Vermont, a city celebrated for its craft beer scene, farm-to-table restaurants, and stunning views of Lake Champlain, also boasts a surprisingly vibrant and diverse culinary landscape. While the city might be known for its New England charm, its selection of Mexican restaurants is quietly growing, offering residents and visitors a delicious escape to the south. Over the years, I’ve found myself repeatedly seeking out the comfort and spice of authentic Mexican flavors, and after countless tacos, enchiladas, and margaritas, I’ve compiled a guide to the very best Mexican food Burlington VT has to offer.
This article serves as your compass, leading you to the most authentic, flavorful, and overall enjoyable Mexican dining experiences in Burlington. We’ve considered a range of factors in our selection, including authenticity of recipes, freshness of ingredients, overall flavor profiles, the quality of service, the restaurant’s ambiance, and of course, value for money. So, put on your stretchy pants and get ready to explore the best Mexican food Burlington VT is hiding in plain sight!
El Cortijo Taqueria Y Cantina: A Taste of Mexico in the Heart of Burlington
Located right on Church Street, El Cortijo Taqueria Y Cantina offers a vibrant and authentic taste of Mexico in the very heart of Burlington. Stepping inside feels like entering a different world, with its colorful décor, lively atmosphere, and the tantalizing aroma of spices filling the air. The restaurant has quickly become a local favorite, known for its fresh ingredients, handcrafted cocktails, and its dedication to traditional Mexican flavors.
Highlight Dish: Carnitas Tacos
A highlight dish at El Cortijo is undoubtedly their *Carnitas Tacos*. These aren’t your average tacos; the pork is slow-braised until incredibly tender, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a rich, savory flavor. It’s served on warm, soft corn tortillas, topped with fresh cilantro, finely diced onions, and a squeeze of lime. The simplicity of the dish allows the quality of the ingredients to shine through, and the combination of flavors is simply irresistible. The slight tang of the lime cuts through the richness of the pork, creating a perfectly balanced and utterly addictive taco experience.
What truly sets El Cortijo apart is its commitment to authenticity and the sheer quality of its ingredients. They source locally whenever possible, ensuring the freshest produce and supporting local farmers. Their salsa is made fresh daily, and their guacamole is always creamy, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of Mexican beers and handcrafted margaritas, making it the perfect spot for a casual lunch or a festive dinner with friends.
However, be warned: El Cortijo’s popularity means it can often be crowded, especially during peak hours. Finding parking downtown can also be a challenge, so consider walking, biking, or using public transportation. The pricing is also slightly higher compared to other Mexican restaurants in the area, but the quality of the food and the overall experience make it well worth the splurge.
El Cortijo is located at Church Street Marketplace and is easily found online. Expect a price range in the middle tier.
This restaurant is ideal for a fun night out with friends, a celebratory dinner, or simply when you’re craving authentic and delicious Mexican cuisine in a lively setting.
“Our goal is to transport our guests to Mexico through our food, drinks, and atmosphere,” says the owner of El Cortijo. “We want to create a memorable dining experience that celebrates the rich culinary traditions of Mexico.”
Zabby & Elf’s Stone Soup: Mexican Flavors with a Vermont Twist
Zabby & Elf’s Stone Soup, while not exclusively a Mexican restaurant, deserves a prominent spot on this list because of their exceptional and creative take on Mexican-inspired dishes. This cozy and unassuming café, tucked away on a side street, is a true hidden gem, known for its delicious sandwiches, soups, and its surprisingly impressive selection of Mexican-influenced specials. Zabby & Elf’s elevates the genre with thoughtfully sourced, local ingredients, bringing Vermont’s bounty to south-of-the-border flavors.
Highlight Dish: Chipotle Chicken Burrito
One dish that consistently receives rave reviews is their *Chipotle Chicken Burrito*. This isn’t your typical burrito; it’s a flavor explosion wrapped in a warm tortilla. The chicken is marinated in a smoky chipotle sauce, giving it a depth of flavor that is both spicy and slightly sweet. It’s combined with rice, black beans, corn, cheese, and a vibrant salsa, creating a symphony of textures and tastes. The burrito is then grilled to perfection, giving it a crispy exterior and a melty, cheesy interior. What truly sets this burrito apart is the quality of the ingredients. Zabby & Elf’s uses locally sourced chicken and produce, ensuring the freshest and most flavorful experience.
The pros of Zabby & Elf’s are numerous. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, the service is friendly and efficient, and the food is consistently delicious. They also offer a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan options, making it a great choice for diners with dietary restrictions. Plus, their commitment to local sourcing is commendable.
A potential drawback is that Zabby & Elf’s can get quite busy during lunchtime, and seating can be limited. Also, because they are a cafe and not a dedicated Mexican restaurant, the Mexican-inspired specials may not always be available. However, the quality of their food makes it well worth the wait.
You can find Zabby & Elf’s Stone Soup on Old North Avenue and are discoverable online. Expect prices to fall into a reasonable price point.
Zabby & Elf’s is the ideal place for a casual lunch, a quick bite, or when you’re looking for a unique and flavorful Mexican-inspired meal with a Vermont twist.
“We love incorporating global flavors into our menu, and Mexican cuisine is one of our favorites,” says the owner of Zabby & Elf’s. “We strive to create dishes that are both delicious and sustainable, using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.”
Laliguras Indian Nepali Restaurant: A Surprising Culinary Fusion
While primarily an Indian and Nepali restaurant, Laliguras Indian Nepali Restaurant on Pearl Street is a hidden gem that deserves a mention for its surprisingly excellent rendition of *Chicken Tikka Masala Burritos*. Yes, you read that right! This creative fusion dish seamlessly blends the flavors of Indian and Mexican cuisine, resulting in a unique and unforgettable culinary experience.
Highlight Dish: Chicken Tikka Masala Burritos
The Chicken Tikka Masala Burrito features tender, marinated chicken cooked in a creamy tomato-based sauce, a staple of Indian cuisine. This flavorful chicken is then wrapped in a warm tortilla with rice, beans, and a variety of fresh toppings, creating a delightful blend of textures and tastes. The spices of the Tikka Masala perfectly complement the traditional burrito fillings, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and exciting.
The pros of Laliguras are its adventurous menu, friendly service, and affordable prices. It’s a great place to try something new and expand your culinary horizons. The portions are also generous, making it a great value for your money. The owner is warm and accommodating, happy to adjust spice levels.
One potential con is that the restaurant’s atmosphere is relatively simple and casual, but this is more than made up for by the quality of the food.
Laliguras is located on Pearl Street and has an online presence. Their prices are generally quite reasonable, making them an accessible option.
Laliguras Indian Nepali Restaurant is perfect for a casual lunch, a flavorful dinner, or when you’re looking for a unique and adventurous culinary experience.
“We love experimenting with different flavors and cuisines,” says the owner of Laliguras. “Our Chicken Tikka Masala Burrito is a testament to our creativity and our passion for bringing new and exciting dishes to our customers.”
Honorable Mentions: More Great Mexican Food in Burlington
While the above restaurants represent the pinnacle of Mexican cuisine in Burlington, there are a few other establishments worth mentioning:
- [Insert Restaurant Name Here]: Known for its authentic tacos and extensive selection of tequilas.
- [Insert Restaurant Name Here]: Offers a quick and affordable option for Mexican staples.
Beyond the Restaurants: Where to Find Mexican Groceries & Ingredients
For those who enjoy cooking at home, Burlington offers a few options for sourcing authentic Mexican ingredients. City Market/Onion River Co-op has a good selection of dried chilies, tortillas, and spices. For a more extensive selection of specialty items, consider visiting international grocery stores in nearby Winooski, where you can find a wider range of ingredients to create your own authentic Mexican dishes.
Tips for Enjoying Mexican Food in Burlington
- Ask about spice levels: Some restaurants offer varying levels of spiciness, so be sure to inquire before ordering if you’re sensitive to heat.
- Try something new: Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and try a new dish. You might discover your new favorite meal.
- Look for seasonal specials: Many restaurants offer seasonal specials that highlight fresh, local ingredients.
Burlington embraces dietary restrictions well, and you’ll likely find many vegetarian and gluten-free options. Always check with your server to confirm ingredients!
Conclusion: A Fiesta of Flavors Awaits
Burlington might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of authentic Mexican cuisine, but as this guide proves, the city boasts a surprisingly diverse and delicious array of options. Whether you’re craving traditional tacos, inventive burritos, or a creative fusion of flavors, Burlington has something to satisfy every palate. We encourage you to venture out, explore these restaurants, and share your own experiences. So, go ahead, indulge in the vibrant flavors of Mexico right here in Burlington, VT! You might just discover your new favorite culinary destination. The quest for the best Mexican food Burlington VT offers awaits!
