That Makes Mexican Food Truly Stand Out?
That irresistible craving for perfectly seasoned carne asada? It’s a common one in Chesapeake. While Chesapeake, Virginia, may be known for its beautiful waterways and maritime history, its culinary scene is rapidly diversifying, and Mexican food is becoming a major player. From family-run taquerias to upscale restaurants serving modern interpretations of classic dishes, Chesapeake offers a wide range of options for satisfying your Mexican food desires. This guide explores some of the very best Mexican restaurants in Chesapeake, offering a taste of everything from authentic tacos and enchiladas to refreshing margaritas and decadent desserts. Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey!
Before diving into specific restaurants, it’s important to consider what elevates Mexican cuisine from simply “good” to truly exceptional. The foundation lies in fresh, high-quality ingredients. From ripe tomatoes and avocados to flavorful cilantro and onions, the freshness of the produce significantly impacts the taste.
Authenticity plays a crucial role. While Tex-Mex variations have their place, many diners crave the genuine flavors of Mexico, reflecting regional specialties and traditional cooking techniques. This includes using proper spices, cooking meats to perfection, and preparing salsas from scratch.
A great Mexican restaurant should also offer a wide variety of dishes to cater to diverse tastes. From familiar favorites like tacos, burritos, and enchiladas to more adventurous options like mole poblano or cochinita pibil, a diverse menu ensures there’s something for everyone.
Finally, excellent service and a welcoming atmosphere are essential. Whether it’s a casual taco stand or a more formal dining establishment, friendly staff and a comfortable setting can significantly enhance the overall dining experience. Ambiance is important: is it a place to bring family? Is it a place to get a romantic dinner? All of these things should be considerations.
Exploring Chesapeake’s Best Mexican Restaurants
A Taste of Mexico
This family-owned gem is a local favorite for its authentic flavors and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Walking into A Taste of Mexico is like stepping into a vibrant cantina. The walls are adorned with colorful murals, and the air is filled with the aroma of sizzling fajitas and freshly made tortillas.
Their signature dish, the tacos al pastor, is a must-try. The marinated pork is slowly roasted on a vertical spit, then thinly sliced and served on warm corn tortillas with pineapple, cilantro, and onions. The combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors is simply irresistible.
Another popular choice is the enchiladas verdes, made with tender chicken or cheese and smothered in a tangy tomatillo sauce. The enchiladas are served with rice and beans, completing the satisfying meal. A Taste of Mexico also boasts a selection of refreshing margaritas, including classic lime, strawberry, and mango flavors. They’ve earned numerous positive reviews for their authentic cuisine and friendly service, and the price range is quite reasonable, making it an excellent choice for a casual lunch or dinner. If you’re looking for a taste of true Mexican culinary tradition, A Taste of Mexico will surely satisfy.
Salsa’s Mexican Grill
Salsa’s Mexican Grill offers a more modern and upscale dining experience, while still maintaining the authentic flavors that make Mexican cuisine so beloved. The restaurant features a stylish décor, with sleek furniture, dim lighting, and a lively bar area.
Salsa’s is known for its innovative dishes, such as the shrimp ceviche, which is made with fresh shrimp, lime juice, cilantro, and avocado. It’s a light and refreshing appetizer that’s perfect for a warm day. Their steak fajitas are cooked on a sizzling skillet and are sure to please any steak lover.
If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, try the Chile Relleno, a poblano pepper stuffed with cheese, battered, and fried to perfection. Salsa’s also offers a wide selection of tequilas and mezcals, making it a great place to enjoy a sophisticated cocktail. With its stylish ambiance and delicious food, Salsa’s Mexican Grill is the perfect choice for a special occasion or a night out with friends. They are a great option if you want live music, as they offer it some nights during the week.
El Taco Loco
For a more casual and budget-friendly option, El Taco Loco is the perfect spot. This no-frills taqueria serves up authentic Mexican street food at affordable prices. The atmosphere is laid-back and friendly, and the focus is on the quality of the food.
As the name suggests, tacos are the star of the show at El Taco Loco. They offer a variety of fillings, including carne asada, carnitas, al pastor, and lengua (beef tongue). The tacos are served on warm corn tortillas with your choice of toppings, such as cilantro, onions, salsa, and lime.
Their burritos are also a popular choice, packed with your choice of filling, rice, beans, cheese, and salsa. El Taco Loco is a great option for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner. You can eat in or order ahead for take out. If you are looking for the real deal in tacos, this should be at the top of your list!
Vegetarian and Vegan Mexican Cuisine: A Growing Trend
Increasingly, diners are seeking out vegetarian and vegan options when it comes to Mexican food. While many traditional dishes rely on meat and dairy, several restaurants in Chesapeake are now offering delicious and creative plant-based alternatives.
Dos Amigos Mexican Restaurant
Dos Amigos offers several vegetarian options and are able to alter menu items to accomodate vegan needs. From the black bean burrito to the fajita vegetariana, there are many options to choose from. The staff is friendly and attentive, and is always willing to customize the meal to your liking. They are a fun and colorful restaurant that all members of the family will enjoy!
Beyond the Main Course: Drinks and Desserts
No Mexican meal is complete without a refreshing beverage and a sweet treat.
Margaritas are a quintessential Mexican drink, and most restaurants in Chesapeake offer a variety of flavors and styles. From classic lime to strawberry, mango, and even spicy jalapeno, there’s a margarita for every taste. Mexican beer is another popular choice, with brands like Corona, Modelo, and Dos Equis readily available. For a non-alcoholic option, try horchata, a sweet rice milk drink flavored with cinnamon and vanilla.
When it comes to desserts, churros are a classic choice. These fried dough pastries are coated in cinnamon sugar and served with a chocolate dipping sauce. Flan, a creamy custard dessert with a caramel topping, is another popular option. And for a truly decadent treat, try tres leches cake, a sponge cake soaked in three different types of milk.
Mexican Culture in Chesapeake: More Than Just Food
The growing popularity of Mexican food in Chesapeake reflects the increasing influence of the Hispanic/Latino community. While Chesapeake doesn’t host major Mexican cultural festivals, the presence of Mexican grocery stores and markets speaks to the community’s desire to maintain its cultural traditions. These stores offer a wide variety of authentic ingredients, spices, and products that are essential for preparing traditional Mexican dishes. They also serve as gathering places for the community, fostering a sense of connection and belonging. While going to a Mexican restaurant is a delicious and easy way to experience the culture, visit one of these specialty stores can add to that level of immersion!
Final Thoughts on Chesapeake’s Mexican Food Scene
Chesapeake’s Mexican food scene is thriving, offering a diverse range of options to satisfy every craving. From authentic taquerias to upscale restaurants serving modern interpretations of classic dishes, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos al pastor, enchiladas verdes, or a refreshing margarita, you’re sure to find a Mexican restaurant in Chesapeake that will tantalize your taste buds.
So, next time you’re craving Mexican food, skip the chain restaurants and explore the delicious offerings in Chesapeake! You’ll discover a vibrant culinary scene that celebrates the authentic flavors and rich traditions of Mexico. Now you’ve learned all about the best Mexican restaurants that the Chesapeake area has to offer. What’s not to love? What are you waiting for? Go get your Mexican food craving satisfied!
