Tacos. Burritos. Fajitas.
That’s what we all think about when we hear ‘Mexican food’.
With evidence of winter well underway, we all need a little heating up. Unfortunately we can’t all jump on our Lear Jet and hit Cabo for a few days whenever we feel like it. (Yes, we’re looking at you, Diddy.)
So what’s the 2nd best way to feel that warm fuzzy feeling inside? Try out these seven notable Mexican joints right here in Montreal – and bring on the internal heat.
El Meson brings good ol’ Mexican comfort to the west side. Located right on the Lachine Canal, this diamond in the rough offers amazing terrasse views of the waterfront while you down your favourite tequila drenched Margaritas. Sadly, if you haven’t already noticed, it isn’t exactly terrasse season anymore. But you can still enjoy their popular lime margaritas paired with nachos con queso all in the comfort of their toasty cantina.
At Velo Burrito, it’s all about healthy Mexican grub. But what’s truly unique is that Velo offers you all your favourite traditional Mexican fair in vegetarian options. Their juicy pulled “pork” burrito is both vegan and gluten free. They also offer sweet potato tacos with house made guacamole. Vegetarian food has never tasted so good.
Outremont’s La Hacienda is a welcomed touch to this neighborhood. It has quickly become a popular spot on the Van Horne stretch that has even seen line ups out the door on weekends, so consider making reservations. Our notable pick on the menu? The enchiladas di pollo with mole sauce – a spicy chocolate sauce – is out of this world. It’s salty and sweet with a touch of heat.
Hidden in the streets of Mile-End is this pure foodie gem. This place is as authentic as it gets. Maria Chavez, the restaurant’s chef and owner has created a unique menu offering a great variety of dishes called Cazuelitas (small terracotta pans) served with tortillas. They offer plates like cactus leaf salad, the intriguing homemade mole poblano (spicy chocolate sauce), grilled quail, and their very popular and succulent chiles en nogada (stuffed peppers). A big slice of Mexican culture right in our own backyard.
Located in Montreal’s growing Sud-Ouest neighbourhood, Cafe Cantina will definitely make you wonder why you’ve never eaten here before. If their comfortable atmosphere, friendly staff, and big portions aren’t already enough to entice you, then perhaps their Californian style Mexican fair will. Our favourites are the blackened salmon salad and house guacamole with tortilla chips. The salmon was juicy and full of flavour while the guacamole was smooth with a kick of lime for that added citrus zing. So if you want to impress your friends the next time it’s your turn to choose a restaurant, head here. You’ll thank us later.
Want that whole Mexican package? Then run down to MAÏS for a full-blown experience. This trendy cantina offers an exquisite bar with top-notch tequilas and Mexican beers. Their michelada is to die for. It’s a prepared beer cocktail with spices, lime, and tomato juices. Their tacos aren’t too shabby either – our faves were the pork belly and carnita. Wash all these down with a couple mecheladas and you’ve got yourself a fiesta.
Le Plateau’s La Matraca cannot be ignored. This taqueria is as authentic and real as you can get. Their Chilaquiles Machos is what keeps dragging us back. It consists of fried tortilla strips simmered in red or green salsa, topped with fried eggs, chorizo and black beans. Some say this is the perfect hangover cure. Others say you need no excuse to eat it. Regardless of the fact, this is Mexican cuisine at its finest.
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La Hacienda photo from: ZeinaS on Tripadvisor