When you're feeling like taking a trip down to Mexico (but without the hefty price tag that comes with a plane ticket) why not check out some Mexican restaurants in Ottawa? There's no need to wait until Cinco de Mayo or Taco Tuesday to enjoy some authentic eats with a tasty margarita on the side.
Cinco de Mayo commemorates Mexico's victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla, but people across North America take the opportunity to immerse themselves in the Mexican culture — and yes, that includes chowing down on tacos.
Your taste buds will be taken on an adventure at these Mexican restaurants. With so many different menu items to choose from, you'll have a tough time deciding where to go, so you may need to try them all at least once. Enjoy eating your way through these ten spots the next time you're craving some Mexican food.
El Camino
Price: 💸 - 💸💸
Address: 380 Elgin St. & 81A Clarence St., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: This hip taco bar has over ten types of tacos to choose from, with unique choices like ox tongue, and Japanese eggplant. But don't fret, if you're not adventurous they have beef and pork too.
Sà Señor
Price: 💸 - 💸💸
Address: 506 Rideau St., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: This popular Mexican joint serves up mouthwatering tacos that have made it onto several "best of" lists in the city. You can get pulled pork, brisket, or lamb stuffed right inside your taco and there are some vegetarian and halal options too.
Ahora Mexican Restaurant
Price: 💸
Address: 307 Dalhousie St., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: Vegan and vegetarian eaters who love Mexican food will find a ton of options on the menu from a vegan burrito to a vegetarian enchilada. Those looking for a fun drink can try out their Cinco de Mayo cocktail, which is a Corona and margarita mixed drink. Craving some dessert? You might want to add churros to your order.
Corazón de MaÃz
Price: 💸
Address: 55 Byward Market Sq., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can enjoy tacos, quesadillas and burritos in this colourful atmosphere with mural paintings. If you don't want alcohol, they serve tons of Jarritos flavours as well as Horchata.
Feleena's Cantina
Price: 💸💸
Address: 742 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: This bright, colourful cantina will transport you to Mexico, where you can feast on fish tacos and flautas, which are deep-fried tortillas served with chicken, cheese, guac, chipotle and tomatillo salsa. There's no question that the menu has margaritas!
Casa Mexico
Price: 💸💸
Address: 1491 Merivale Rd., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: This Mexican restaurant feels like a fiesta every day of the year. If you're looking for a sweet happy hour menu, they serve $4 tacos and $9 cocktails from Monday to Thursday until 5 p.m.
Banditos
Price: 💸 - 💸💸
Address: 683 Bank St., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: There is a spacious front patio that will make you feel like you're dining right in the heart of Mexico. They have tons of tacos to choose from like your classic ground beef and smoked brisket to cauliflower and Nashville chicken. If you're not feeling like sipping on some margs, you can order a bucket or aquarium full of Corona.
Eldorado Taco
Price: 💸💸
Address: 170 Preston St., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: You'll find both classic and modern Mexican eats here and 12 different tacos on the menu from calamari to crispy avocado. They also offer six different flavours of margaritas, and there's even a churro cheesecake to scarf down for dessert.
La Fiesta Latina
Price: 💸💸
Address: 565 Somerset St. W., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: There are tons of tacos on the menu, and you can add a side of fried plantains or yuca fries to your order. You can even try out some authentic dishes like the pozole trio combo, which is "Mom's recipe" too.
Taqueria La Bonita
Price: 💸💸
Address: 1079 Wellington St. W., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: If you're looking to sip fun, giant cocktails while you're eating your favourite Mexican eats, you might want to add this spot to your "must try" list. You'll find large fishbowl drinks that are bigger than your head.
