For decades, Mexican restaurants have woven themselves into the fabric of Traverse City’s dining scene. From authentic street tacos to upscale modern plates, these spots define the region’s vibrant culinary culture. Whether you crave a bustling family-run taqueria or a refined dinner destination, here are the essential places to start.
Frida’s Mexican grill
$ | (231) 421-1001 | WEBSITE
Head to Frida’s Mexican Grill in Traverse City to treat yourself, either with the authentic flavors from the start—the welcoming hostess sets the tone with a warm smile—or the classy and comfortable inside. Order margaritas with that perfect tangy kick, generous plates of Nachos Supreme with beef and chicken, and a wet burrito smothered in savory sauce. Or opt for the tacos, served fresh and vibrant, and watch everyone nod in approval as the aromas fill the air.
Go for a satisfying meal out, for $12 margaritas that hit the spot, or a lively gathering with friends craving delicious Mexican food.
La Senorita Restaurant
$ | (231) 946-4545 | WEBSITE
You head to La Senorita Restaurant in Traverse City with a singular goal. A goal to pack as much of that creamy, cheesy Burrito Blanco into your stomach as humanly possible. The heat from the complimentary salsa might make your meal a challenge, but any of the frosty margaritas will soothe your palate enough to see it through. The dining room is mostly just booths with a few tables up front, but honestly, all you really need to concentrate on is your plate of that massive burrito.
QDOBA Mexican Eats
$ | (231) 421-8475 | WEBSITE
QDOBA Mexican Eats has been serving Traverse City with some straightforward Mexican fare for years now. Whether you go classic and have a burrito with chicken or beef, or get a big bowl loaded with all the toppings that requires two hands to manage, the food at QDOBA is flavorful, well-made, and hard to forget. And whether you’re with friends eating at the casual tables inside, or having a solo lunch in your car, those reliable burritos and tasty combos still hit all the same.
Mama Lu’s – A Modern Day Taco Shop
$ | (231) 943-2793 | WEBSITE
While it’s primarily a downtown destination, Mama Lu’s – A Modern Day Taco Shop is no one-trick pony. One portion of the unpretentious eatery is filled with people waiting on to-go orders of carnitas tacos or shrimp options. But we prefer having our meal in the deceptively simple dining room so we can take our time with the food.
Stick with the classics—the fish tacos fall apart with a loving glance, every piece of el pastor makes our eyes water, and the homemade chips are crispy enough to take a nap on. Plus, if you come by on the right night, you might find yourself having dinner while enjoying their signature coconut margarita.
Dreloco Taco
$ | (231) 715-1188 | WEBSITE
Casual and inviting, Dreloco Taco, a Mexican spot in Traverse City, runs a steady dine-in operation, so the tables are mostly open for you to settle in with a satisfying meal, whether you come for a quick lunch or a much-needed comfort dinner. The best dishes here are the nachos that are loaded with fresh toppings, the Texan burrito with enough customizable fillings to grab every flavor, and the loco fries that might make your taste buds sing.
Margaritas Grill Mexican Restaurant
$$ | (231) 252-2373 | WEBSITE
When you need a spot to grab a meal with your family (born or chosen), there’s Margaritas Grill, a restaurant serving authentic Mexican cuisine in Traverse City with a seated dining area that feels like a cheerful, welcoming space. A meal at Margaritas Grill is like a festive gathering, with Pollo Supremo and veggie burritos topping the menu alongside large margaritas that taste like a better pink lemonade.
Come by for dinner when you have a craving that only genuine Mexican food can satisfy, or swing by to catch the Cowboys game on the TVs.
Red Mesa Grill-Traverse City
$ | (231) 938-2773 | WEBSITE
Red Mesa Grill in Traverse City is a cozy hangout first, and a Mexican food spot second. The northern Michigan joint almost always has a friendly crowd and a warm, welcoming atmosphere flowing through the space. Go here to not only relax with your dog on the patio, but also for some of the best fresh street corn, fried ice cream with jalapeños in the chocolate sauce, and margaritas in the city. Grab everything to go, ’cause that’s a solid option, or settle into a table seat.
Then dig into some tasty dishes and cold beer while taking in Red Mesa’s preferred vibe: attentive service and reasonable prices that make you want to come back.
Spanglish
$ | (231) 943-1453 | WEBSITE
The delightful Mexican eatery Spanglish feels too perfect for its cozy spot near the babbling brook in Traverse City Commons. At any moment, you’ll spot the friendly staff tending to the pick-up window, bringing out food to outdoor tables, chatting warmly with regulars, and even finding time to help guests navigate the occasional parking challenge.
You come to Spanglish for fresh, flavorful Mexican fare, delicious vegan options, and an atmosphere that makes you feel like you’ve discovered a hidden gem by the running stream.
Taqueria Tc Latino Dos
$ | (231) 943-2400 | WEBSITE
If you prefer your tacos and tres leches with a side of authentic Mexican flavors, then Taqueria Tc Latino Dos in Traverse City is where to go. This place serves delicious food daily, and on most days, people will be dining in the cozy home-like interior. Taqueria Tc Latino Dos’ menu is varied and satisfying—so you can have crispy fried carnitas, tender barbacoa, and fresh fish tacos all in the same meal.
Sleder’s Family Tavern
$ | (231) 947-9213 | WEBSITE
Sleder’s Family Tavern has the homemade ham and bean soup you’re craving, along with hand-cut fries and that famous cherry BBQ sauce. Steeped in 140 years of history, with its original aesthetic intact and playful animal decor covering the walls, Sleder’s feels like a cozy time capsule tucked just outside downtown Traverse City. The smart play is to try the Impossible burger on a grilled onion bun, especially with a side of that tangy cherry sauce.
Bring the whole family here so everyone can find something they love from the diverse menu.
Hayloft Inn
$ | (231) 941-0832 | WEBSITE
Hayloft Inn makes the best tacos in town. This roadhouse packs each Wednesday special with enough flavor to cover the entire western saloon, and there are pockets of delight in every crispy bite. Even sides of Long Island Ice Tea have ribbons of top-shelf liquor swirled in. If it weren’t for the friendly staff, live music, and buttery atmosphere on Hayloft’s Wednesday nights, one might faint from sheer enjoyment.
Go here to feel the Wild West, get some fun—Hayloft Inn is a neighborhood hangout with no shortage of cold beverages—and drink your weight in fantastic service.