The 39 Best Mexican Foods You Have To Try!

Whether you plan on throwing a Mexican-themed food party or you simply want to try your hand at preparing some authentic Mexican food that could rival that of your favorite Mexican restaurant – there’s plenty of different food options to choose from.

Mexican cuisine, as we’re sure you’re already well familiar with – is a rich and vast cuisine that includes everything from crunchy tacos, delicious quesadillas all the way to more obscure dishes such as elote, esquites and plenty more.

The only question is, which Mexican foods are the very best of all? If you’re currently asking yourself this question – then rest assured that you have come to the right place.

In this article, we are going to be talking you through the best Mexican dishes that you simply have to try. 

So, without further ado, whenever you’re ready – just keep reading!

Mexican Foods You Have To Try!

As we have already mentioned above, when it comes to Mexican cuisine – often the choices can be seemingly endless. But, this is where we come in to help you out.

Below, we are going to be talking you through the top 39 Mexican foods that you simply have to try at least once or twice.

In this list that we have carefully curated below, you will find a breakdown of a variety of different Mexican foods – ranging from iconic to more obscure. 

We’ve done our best to include a vast range of dishes that will cater to a variety of taste preferences, and we’re confident that – no matter whether you’re a Mexican food lover or wanting to try your very first dish – there will be a variety of dishes here that you’re positively sure to love.

So, whenever you’re ready, just keep reading to discover the 39 best Mexican foods you simply have to try:

1. Tacos

We just had to start off our list with a classic! Even though there are a variety of other dishes that Mexican cuisine is famous for, without a doubt one of the most popular and well-loved dishes are the humble tacos. 

One of the very best things about tacos is how versatile they are…as well as how easy they are to make!

Tacos consist of chips that are loaded with a variety of different delicious toppings including everything from jalapenos, cheese, salsa, guacamole and so much more.

Not in the mood to make them yourself? No problem. Tacos are so popular that you can find them at multiple fast food chains across the country, and can even find pre-made tacos at most local grocery stores.

2. Burritos

Next up? Burritos, of course! If you’ve never had the chance to try burritos – put them on the very top of your “to try” list, because burritos are not only absolutely delicious, but they’re a favorite meal of many all over the world.

Ideal as a lunchtime meal, burritos are tortilla wraps that are full to the brim with yummy fillings, including things such as rice, beans, cheese, meat and much more.

They’re one of the most iconic Mexican foods, as well as one of the most popular foods in the world in general.

3. Esquites

Esquites is essentially a stew, but don’t be put off by the blandness of the term “stew” because esequites is anything but that.

Full to the brim with corn, fragrant spices and even in some instances meat – esquites is a popular dish in Mexico and is often sold as street food.

4. Elote

If you’ve never heard of an elote before, where have you been?

One of the most popular snacks in the country (as well as in Mexico, of course) elotes are sure to become one of your favorite go-to snacks, and the best part? It only requires a few ingredients and can be enjoyed by all the family.

Elotes are essentially a corn on the cob that is seasoned with a variety of spices, cilantro and slathered in delicious mayonnaise. Give it a go, we’re sure that you’ll love it!

5. Chilaquiles

In the mood for an authentic Mexican breakfast?

Look no further than chilaquiles! By far one of the most popular dishes for breakfast in Mexico as well as in America, chilaquiles are tortillas that are cut into trajinflar shapes and then either toasted or fried – depending on your preference.

Then, to make them extra special, they are then topped with a variety of delicious fillings including eggs, bef, chicken ,cheese, egg and much more. If you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast, look no further than chilaquiles!

6. Pipian

If you thought that chilaquiles sounded good – then we think that you might find pipian delicious.

Even though pipian is not as well known as some of the other dishes that we have already talked about, it is a very traditional dish that is loved in Mexico.

It is deep, vibrant green in appearance and is a stew that contains beef, pork, rabbit and even sometimes chicken, too.

7. Mole

Next up, we have selected Mexican Mole! This delicious dish is highly versatile and can be enjoyed in a number of different ways, although it mainly consists of tomatoes, chilies and chocolate – yes, you read that right!

8. Menudo

Keeping with the theme of stew, the next delicious dish that we have to share with you is menudo!

Ideal for the colder months, this warming stew dish consists of pork and other ingredients that make it perfect for those times when you’re in need of some comfort food.

9. Chicken Fajitas

Similar to tacos and burritos, another dish that has crossed over into Western cuisine are chicken fajitas.

This classic is a favorite all over the world and consists of tortilla wraps, chicken, spices and much more. If you’re just getting started in the world of Mexican cuisine, chicken fajitas are a great place to start.

10. Enchiladas

If you’re a big fan of Mexican food, then we’re sure that you might have already tried enchiladas before! Still, as it’s a classic – we feel this classic dish is deserving of a spot on our roundup.

Enchiladas are not only one of the most popular Mexican dishes throughout the world, but it’s super versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.

Keep in mind – these can be pretty messy! So, we recommend eating them with a knife and fork if you don’t want to get your fingers full of sauce.

11. Caldo Azteca

If you’re in the mood for something a little lighter, then we recommend that you try Caldo Azteca next time you’re craving Mexican food. This traditional soup is filled with fried tortilla strips, pepper, cheese, onions and avocado – you’ll love it!

12. Carnitas

Carnitas is another delicious dish that you should consider trying! Carnitas consists of dry meat (that is usually pork) and is often chopped and then fried in lard.

To ensure plenty of flavor, carnitas is slow-cooked to ensure plenty of flavor and tenderness, before then adding an additional secret ingredient.

This secret ingredient varies from region to region, and no one is quite sure what it is!

13. Torta Ahogada

Like enchiladas? Well, you’ll love torta ahogada! Torta ahogada is one of the most popular street food dishes in Mexico, and often consists of a baguette that has been slathered in a fiery hot sauce!

This can be a little messy to eat – but trust us, this dish is totally delicious and perfect for those who like a kick!

14. Birria de Chivo

Coming back to the theme of Mexican stews, next up on our list we have Birria de Chivo!

This is a goat stew that is full to the brim with flavor, although the most distinctive note that you’ll get from this is tomato. So, if you like tomato-based foods – you’ll love Birria de Chivo.

15. Quesadillas

Who doesn’t love quesadillas? Our roundup list just wouldn’t have been complete without including quesadillas!

Besides being a classic Mexican dish, quesadillas are a highly popular food in western culture and are also sper versatile…not to mention easy to make!

Mexican quesadillas tend to be a lot more spiecer than the western types, but they’re both equally delicious and ideal for Mexican food lovers old and new.

16. Alegria de Amaranto

Along with savory dishes, Mexico is also known for creating a variety of traditional sweet treats, too! The Alegria de Amaranto dish is one of the most popular and delicious. Let’s take a closer look at this treat below:

If you’re in the mood for something sweet or you’ve simply got a sweet tooth – Alegria de Amaranto is the dish for you.

This is a sweet treat that has been made from seeds of amaranth, which are then either mixed with sugar or honey (depending on the recipe) in order to achieve the distinctly sweet flavor.

17. Flautas

If you’re already familiar with Mexican cuisine, then we’re sure that you might have already come across flautas!

However, if you’re not familiar with this dish, it is essentially the traditional version of tacos and is made with tortillas which are rolled in a way similar to that of flat pancakes.

To make the dish extra tasty, flautas contain a variety of fillings to make it extra delicious, including seasoning, meat, cheese and much more.

18. Guacamole con Chapulines

Next up? We have guacamole con chapulines! While this next dish might not be for everyone, if you’re daring and truly want to experience an authentic taste of Mexico, guacamole con chapulines might be exactly what you’re looking for.

Why, you ask? Well, unlike some of the other dishes that we have already covered in this guide, Guacamole con Chapulines contains grasshoppers!

Sure, even though it’s pretty safe to say that the majority of people don’t typically tend to enjoy eating grasshoppers, believe it or not – this dish is extremely delicious.

Even though it’s different from dishes you are likely already used to, the grasshoppers in this dish are carefully sauteed before then being served on a creamy layer of avocado.

Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it! We think you might enjoy it.

19. Mexican Corn Salad

If you are currently craving Mexican food and you want something that is going to be a little on the healthier side, then we recommend that you try the Mexican corn salad!

Even though the majority of salads (at least, in western cuisine, that is) contain lettuce – Mexican corn salad does not. Instead, it contains a delicious mixture of jalapenos, parmesan cheese, sour cream, red onion and corn. 

The result? A creamy yet fiery mixture of flavors that you’re absolutely sure to love. It makes a perfect side dish as well as a healthy main meal, too!

20. Chiles en Nogada

If you’re interested in trying a truly authentic Mexican dish – then you’ll be making a great choice to try out the Chiles en Nogada!

In order to make this deliciously authentic Mexican dish, Chiles en Nogada incorporates every color of the Mexican flag, so it should come as no surprise to hear that this dish is a national favorite.

To represent green in the flag, green poblano chilies are included and stuffed with picadillo, while pomegranate seeds are used to represent the red. As for the white in the flag?

Walnut cream sauce is used to finish off the flag, while lending the dish a creamy flavor.

21. Churro Chips

Looking for the perfect sugary snack? If you answered yes to that question, then we think that you should give churro chips a try!

Churro chips are sugary without being too sweet, and are the perfect snack for anyone that wants a tasty treat a little bit on the indulgent side.

What’s more, these chips can be enjoyed on their own or even elevated with chocolate sauce and other toppings. Yum!

22. Discada

By far, one of the most popular dishes that you can enjoy from Mexican cuisine is Discada!

If you’re not overly familiar with what this is, Discada is essentially a dish that is packed with a variety of different delicious meals including bacon, ground meat as well as chorizo.

As well as this, you can enjoy a variety of additional ingredients as you see fit, although the most traditional topping usually included in this dish are black pepper, jalapenos and more. 

If you’re interested in trying this, we recommend that you make sure to use a napkin – this dish, despite being completely delicious, is known to be pretty messy!

23. Machaca

Are you picky about which meat that you like to eat? If you’re the type of person who prefers beef to pork, then you’re in luck! Machaca is a popular dish that hails from North Mexico and is known for its rich taste and versatility.

Machca essentially consists of dried beef that has been shredded, and the best part is that it can be enjoyed in a multitude of different ways.

From tacos to nachos, and even in stew – machaca is highly versatile and can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a bigger main meal.

24. Tamales

Now, we’re sure that you’ll have already heard of tamales. Although, if you haven’t, tamales are essentially wraps that consist of chicken, mole or even pork that are then wrapped in either corn or banana leaves.

They’re delicious, healthy and packed full of flavor – you’re sre to love them. We think that they’re ideal on their own, but many people like to enjoy their tamales as a side dish.

The choice is entirely up to you! They’re also not too messy, either, which means that you won’t have to worry about making a mess!

25. Huevos Rancheros

As you might have already been able to guess by now, eggs are a very popular ingredient used across multiple different Mexican dishes – and Huevos rancheros is no exception to this.

In fact,  this dish is very similar to chilaquiles, the only main difference is that chilaquiles are enjoyed at breakfast, while huevos rancheros is a dish that is traditionally served at dinnertime.

Huveros rancheros consist of tortillas that are typically topped with a variety of different fried beans. Then, to really finish this dish off, huevos rancheros are then topped with 2 eggs (sunny side up) and often finished with chili powder.

Just like some of the other dishes on this list, huevos rancheros can be a little messy, so make sure you have a napkin!

26. Tlayuda

Hailing all the way from south Mexico, next up on our list we have Tlayuda! No matter whether you’re a Mexican cuisine enthusiast or you’re eagerly wanting to try your first dish – Tlayuda is a must try at least once!

This delicious and traditional dish consists of a large corn tortilla that is carefully cooked in order to create a golden appearance and crispy taste.

Along with all of this, Tlayuda comes complete with a blend of additional ingredients including black beans, chorizo, cheese as well as dry pork meat.

In other words, this is a meal that can be enjoyed at any time of the day, including at breakfast! 

27. Tacos al Pastor

So, even though we all know about the classic tacos, have you ever heard of tacos al pastor? While the two dishes are somewhat similar, tacos al pastor are a little different from humble tacos and a dish that we definitely recommend you try.

Not only is it mouthwateringly good, but Tacos al Pastor is a dish steeped in history, and was the most popular during the 1920s as well as the 1930s.

28. Tostadas

As you might have already been able to guess by this  point, tortillas are a commonly used base in a variety of dishes – and Tostados just so happens to be one of them!

In order to make this simple but delicious dish, first you will need to begin by frying your tortillas in oil.

From there, you can then add a variety of yummy toppings on the top including cheese, fried beans, cooked beans and plenty more. Some people even like to add chili flakes!

29. Gorditas de Nata

So, even though there are clearly multiple different types of main and side dishes popular in Mexican cuisine – what about desserts?

If you have a sweet tooth or you simply want to try a traditional and authentic dish – Gorditas de Nata is just what you need.

This dish essentially consists of fresh pancakes that have been filled with cream. They are soft, fluffy and can be elevated with a variety of toppings – in particular, our favorite accompaniment is vanilla ice cream! 

30. Aguachile

Here we have another immensely popular dish native to western Mexico. This is  typically served as a starter to a main meal, although it can just as well be served as a main.

This dish is traditionally made with water, chilies and dry meat (often pork or sometimes even beef) but in recent times raw shrimp is often used in its place. 

31. Pescado Zarandeado

Are you a fish lover? If you are, then this next dish is just for you. Even though fish doesn’t traditionally feature all that much in Mexican cuisine, there are a few dishes that use fish as its primary ingredient – and Pescado Zarandeado is one of them!

This flavorful dish is full to the brim with flavor and ideal for enjoying during those days when you want something hearty and warming.

32. Ceviche

Keeping with the theme of Mexican fish dishes, this next dish incorporates raw fish – so it’s a great option to try if you happen to already enjoy fish.

Even though raw fish might seem a little off putting, ceviche is truly delicious and one of the most authentic dishes you can find.

In order to make this yummy  dish, tortillas are typically used to line a bowl or plate, before then proceeding to top the tortillas with a variety of delicious toppings – including raw fish and much more such as chili, lemon, cilantro, onion, tomato and much more.

33. Camarones ala Diabla

Here’s another Mexican dish worth trying if you love fish or simply want a hearty dish that is going to be too unhealthy for you.

Vibrant and colorful, this fish-based dish consists of shrimp that are generously covered in red chili peppers which gives this dish a fiery kick you’re sure to love.

34. Pozole de Pollo o Guajolote

Prefect for the winter months when you’re in need of something warming and comforting – pozole de pollo o guajolote is a hearty stew that’s sure to become a go-to in your household.

This is a versatile stew that can be made with a variety of ingredients including chicken, turkey as well as a variety of additional ingredients such as seasoning, onions, mushrooms and cilantro.

35. Migas

A dish perfect for getting rid of some ingredients that are going to waste in your kitchen – Migas is a practical yet delicious dish that has been eaten in Mexico for centuries.

It’s made using stale bread and is elevated with a variety of delicious ingredients.

If you’re on the lookout for new Mexican recipes to keep in your home collection, we recommend Migas – it’s simple to make, ideal for ensuring that your food does not go to waste and can be enjoyed by all of the family!

36. Pozoles

Nearing the end of our roundup, we just couldn’t get to the end without including pozoles! Even though this might look like plain old soup upon first inspection – don’t underestimate this dish, because pozoles pack quite the punch.

This soup is made with honey and meat, and is elevated with a great variety of spices, vegetales and more. It’s perfect on its own or even as a starter!

37. Mangonada Sorbet

Are you the type of person that prefers a refreshing and cooling dessert, as opposed to those that leave you feeling weighed down and too full?

If you answered yes to that, then we think that you might love mangonada sorbet! This delicious sweet sorbet is enhanced with an authentic Mexican twist – and includes fresh fruits, spices and more.

38. Churro Cookies

It’s no secret that churros are a popular dessert-style food native to Mexico, but did you know that there are a variety of delicious recipes that incorporate elements of churro with other yummy foods?

Churro cookies are the perfect example of this cooking ingenuity. Perfect as a snack or for entertaining the children with, churro cookies consist of caramel, puff pastry and cinnamon sugar. It’s as simple as that, and sure to hit the spot!

39. Sopapilla Cheesecake

Last but certainly not least, the final delicious dish that we have to share with you is sopapilla cheesecake! This delicious dish combines western cuisine with Mexican – and incorporates elements of cheesecake with sopapilla. 

As we have already mentioned above in a different dish, sopapilla is a deep fried dough that is native to Mexico, and is a highly popular dessert sold in restaurants and street vendors, alike.

However, to give this dough a slight enhancement, this dish incorporates the best part of cheesecake (aka, the filling) in order to give this dish a slight creaminess that we’re sure you’ll absolutely adore.

The best part about this dish is that it’s extremely easy to prepare and you’ll more than likely already have the ingredients that you need sitting about in your kitchen cupboard.

Once made, you can either choose to eat them straight away or even freeze them for a cooling treat that all the family will be able to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Most Popular Cuisine In Mexico?

This is a good question!

As you will have been able to see from the list above, there are a great variety of different Mexican food dishes that you can choose from when it comes to Mexican cuisine – but which is the most popular cuisine in Mexico?

Even though taste is subjective and everyone will have their own preference of which Mexican food is best, some of the most popular dishes in Mexico are elote, tostadas, pozole, enchiladas and chiles en nogada. 

If you’re planning on taking a visit to Mexico, we recommend that you take a stroll through and try out some delicious street food.

Not only will you be able to enjoy some iconic Mexican dishes made fresh, but you will also be able to enjoy truly authentic dishes, too.

What Is the Most Famous Food In Mexico?

Mexican food is known for being full of spices, flavor and heartiness – but which is the most famous food in Mexico?

Some of the most popular, iconic and famous foods in Mexico are nachos, enchiladas, elote, burritos and many more!

Of course, though, it should certainly go without saying that nachos is one of the most iconic dishes to come from Mexican cuisine, and is a favorite for people all over the world! 

Nachos can be enjoyed in a variety of different ways, and perhaps some of its fame can be attributed to just how versatile it is.

Whether you’re in the mood for a yummy snack or you simply want to elevate your main meal with a side dish – nachos are always a great choice.

Not to mention, nachos only require a few ingredients which makes them super easy to prepare (even for those with little cooking experience) and can just as easily be purchased at a local fast food restaurant, diner or street vendor.

What Is the Most Popular Mexican Food In America?

As you will have been able to see from our list above, there’s plenty of choice when it comes to Mexican food.

In Western cuisine, some of the most popular Mexican dishes that have become popular are enchiladas, elote, nachos, burritos and much more.

Final Thoughts

There we have it! Now, it’s over to you.

Now that you have taken the time to read through our Mexican dish roundup, we hope that we have been able to give you a better understanding of Mexican cuisine, as well as which authentic dishes you should make sure that you try at least once.

The best part about Mexican food, as we have already briefly mentioned above, is just how versatile it is!

From iconic classics such as tacos, burritos and enchiladas, all the way to more obscure dishes such as Mole and more – one thing’s for sure, when it comes to Mexican food – you can be sure that you’re going to be getting a hearty, flavorful dish time and time again.

Still, if you’re in need of a recommendation and you’re not too sure where to begin, why don’t you start off with nachos?

Besides being the most famous Mexican dish, nachos are super delicious and can be customized to suit your preferences. Not to mention, they’re super easy to make and absolutely delicious!

As a final parting note, before you go ahead and lick off this article – why don’t you consider giving this page a bookmark?

By doing so, you will be able to ensure that you can always come back and find this page should you need some more inspiration on which Mexican cuisine food to try next.

Thank you for reading, and goodbye for now.