Craving Mexican? Your Search Ends Here
Craving a taste of Mexico right here in Burlington, Vermont? You’re in luck! Burlington’s vibrant culinary scene extends far beyond farm-to-table fare and craft breweries. The city boasts a growing number of Mexican restaurants, each offering its own unique take on classic dishes and regional specialties. But with so many tempting options, how do you choose the best Mexican food Burlington VT has to offer? That’s where this guide comes in. We’ve scoured the city, tasted countless tacos, and sampled a variety of burritos to bring you our top picks for the best spots to satisfy your Mexican food cravings. Forget the generic chain restaurants – this is a deep dive into the authentic flavors and vibrant experiences that make Burlington’s Mexican food scene truly special. So, grab your appetite and get ready to embark on a delicious journey!
What Makes Mexican Food Great in Burlington?
Before we dive into the specific restaurants, let’s define what we’re looking for when searching for the best Mexican food Burlington VT can provide. It’s not just about finding a place that serves tacos; it’s about the entire experience. Our criteria for selecting the best Mexican restaurants include several important factors:
- Authenticity: Does the restaurant strive to capture the true essence of Mexican cuisine? We’re looking for genuine flavors and cooking methods, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of Mexico. While some places offer creative interpretations, we appreciate those that honor traditional recipes.
- Flavor: Above all else, the food has to taste amazing! We consider the quality of ingredients, the balance of spices, and the overall deliciousness of each dish. Is the salsa bursting with fresh flavors? Are the meats tender and well-seasoned? These details matter.
- Menu Variety: A great Mexican restaurant should offer a diverse menu, catering to a range of tastes and dietary needs. Beyond the standard tacos and burritos, we look for regional specialties, vegetarian options, and creative dishes that showcase the chef’s talent.
- Ambiance: The atmosphere plays a significant role in the dining experience. We look for restaurants with a welcoming and enjoyable ambiance, whether it’s a lively cantina or a cozy taqueria. Cleanliness and attentive service are also essential.
- Price: Value for money is always important. We consider the quality and quantity of food in relation to the price. Are the portions generous? Is the price point appropriate for the overall experience? We’re looking for places where you can enjoy a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
- Customer Reviews: We take into account online reviews and ratings from sources like Yelp and Google Reviews. While opinions can vary, consistently positive feedback is a good indicator of a restaurant’s quality.
- Local Sourcing: In a place like Vermont, we also value restaurants that prioritize using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. This commitment to supporting local farmers and producers enhances the freshness and quality of the food.
While ambiance is important, flavor and value are given considerable weight in our assessment. After all, the best Mexican food Burlington VT has to offer should tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied.
The Top Choices for Mexican Cuisine in Burlington
Now, let’s get to the good stuff – our top picks for the best Mexican food Burlington VT has to offer!
El Cortijo Taqueria Y Cantina
El Cortijo is a popular choice for a reason. This vibrant taqueria and cantina offers a lively atmosphere and a menu packed with authentic Mexican flavors. Located on Church Street, it’s easily accessible and perfect for a casual lunch or a fun evening out.
One of their standout dishes is the carnitas tacos. The pork is slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful meat that melts in your mouth. The tacos are topped with fresh cilantro, onion, and a squeeze of lime, creating a simple yet satisfying combination. The house-made salsas add another layer of flavor, ranging from mild to fiery. For those seeking something more substantial, the burritos are massive and customizable, allowing you to choose your favorite fillings and toppings.
El Cortijo’s vibrant atmosphere and extensive tequila selection make it a great place to gather with friends. The decor is colorful and festive, creating a lively and enjoyable dining experience. The price point is moderate, making it accessible to a wide range of diners. You can find them at 189 Bank St, Burlington, VT 05401, and they are often busy, a testament to their food.
Laliguras Indian Nepali Restaurant (Surprisingly!)
Okay, hear me out. While primarily an Indian and Nepali restaurant, Laliguras serves some absolutely phenomenal, and arguably the best Mexican food Burlington VT has to offer when it comes to value and surprising flavor. Their chicken or vegetable burritos are bursting with unique spices that blend Indian and Mexican cuisine in a way that will tantalize your tastebuds.
They have an extensive menu, that covers all sorts of food, but for a quick bite, and to get some very unexpected flavors, it is worth it to stop at Laliguras. It might be a hot take, but in Burlington, you have to be creative! Find them at 130 Church Street, Burlington.
Zabby & Elf’s Stone Soup
While more known for its sandwiches and deli items, Zabby & Elf’s is the perfect place for someone looking for a quick bite when searching for the best Mexican food Burlington VT offers, and is located right downtown. If you are looking for a quick, cheap, and tasty burrito, you have to stop at this spot!
Zabby & Elf’s has a fantastic reputation in Burlington, and is always busy because of its food. One of their signature items is the breakfast burrito, a true champion of the downtown breakfast cuisine. They also offer a wide variety of other foods and drinks to go along with it, so this could be a one stop shop when you are on the go! Find them at 211 College St, Burlington, VT 05401.
Rest of the Mexican Options in Burlington
While the above restaurants represent our top picks, there are other options worth considering if you’re on the hunt for best Mexican food Burlington VT has in general. Other restaurants are fantastic in their own right, and it is worth considering your own preferences when searching!
More Than Just Restaurants: Expanding Your Mexican Food Experience
Beyond the restaurants, there are other ways to enjoy Mexican flavors in Burlington. For those who love to cook at home, several grocery stores offer a wide selection of authentic Mexican ingredients.
Finding great ingredients for your favorite Mexican meals helps enhance the experience in so many ways, so be sure to check that out to make your own dishes! Also, food trucks are more likely than not to be available during the summer, so make sure you are looking on social media to find out the best spot and time to grab some Mexican food!
Concluding Remarks: The Journey for the Best Mexican Food
Burlington’s Mexican food scene is a vibrant and evolving landscape, offering something for everyone. While we’ve highlighted our top picks for the best Mexican food Burlington VT boasts, we encourage you to explore and discover your own favorites. From authentic tacos to creative interpretations, Burlington’s Mexican restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings. So, go ahead and embark on a delicious adventure – your next favorite Mexican meal is waiting to be discovered!
Do you have a favorite Mexican restaurant in Burlington that we didn’t mention? Share your recommendations in the comments below! We’re always looking for new places to try and expand our list of the best Mexican food Burlington VT has to offer.
