10 “Hot” Mexican Spots in RI

1. Tortilla Flats, Providence
Serving fresh Mexican, Southwestern & Cajun cuisines and amazing margaritas for over 40 years. This friendly neighborhood gem is situated right off the hustle and bustle of Thayer St. on Prov’s East Side. 50 tequilas on the shelf and always serving an amazingly delicious seasonal sangria. Can’t go wrong with the chimchangas, chile rellenos, or tostadas.

2. Condesa, East Greenwich, Smithfield
A casual Mexican scratch kitchen in modern digs serving up hand-made cocktails. Vegan, gluten free, and vegetarian menu items. Known for their BIG burritos, tasty guac, and four different salsas. Try the tequila shrimp tacos.

3. Tallulah’s Taqueria, Providence
Regional and home-style Mexican flavors in a neighborhood eatery on the East Side of Providence. Chef Rojas defines each bite with authentic roots yet innovative & bold flavors. Fish tacos, shrimp tacos, carne asata burritos, and the churros are to write home about. You order at the counter and give your name. Very casual. It’s basically impossible to leave here disappointed, or hungry.

4. El Rancho Grande, Providence
Committed to offering traditional Mexican dishes at an affordable price using only the most authentic ingredients possible, often bringing in hard-to-find food products directly from Puebla, Mexico. Puebla is considered the home of mole, a rich, spicy sauce containing chocolate, cinnamon and nuts, as well as different types of hot peppers. Served with chicken, mole has become the most renowned dish of Puebla’s cuisine. A wide selection of mezcal, a smoky delicious liquor made from agave. Oh, and a Sunday brunch.

5. Diego’s, Newport
An a-typical Mexican restaurant with a SoCal style. That’s another way of saying Mexican cuisine with an American (and a water view). A truly unique atmosphere. Weekend brunch: $6 brunch special from 9am-1pm. Nacho Night Tuesday. Loaded taco plates Starting at $7. Tacos are talked about all over Newport: Korean barbecue, fish, steak, fried chicken…trust us. In the summer enjoy a margarita overlooking the pier.

6. Paco’s Tacos Mexi-Cali, Cranston
A small little Mexi-Cali taco-haven hidden in Cranston with a surf-rock-tiki design. Very casual; food served on a cafeteria tray. Try the carne asada burritos. They also have a food truck for your next event.

7. El Tapatio, North Kingstown
Mexican food in a fun, family-style restaurant where you can get stuff like Super Nachos, veggie burritos, and affordable pitchers of margaritas. Known for its generous family-style portions. It also has a sweet bar/lounge area where you can eat at the bar and watch the game.

8. Chilangos, Providence
It doesn’t get much more authentically Mexican than this place. Everything from the food to decor gives you the perfect Mexican experience. Get the mango margarita or the $40 margarita pitcher that serves 12 glasses! Everything on the menu will satisfy you like the Gordito – a small, simple, cheese-filled roll. A-mazing.

9. Don Jose Tequilas, Providence
Traditional, home-style, and fine Mexican cuisine served spicy, medium, or mild. Over 100 different types of fine sipping tequilas. Located in the heart of historic Federal Hill. Dim lighting makes for a romantic night out. Try the lamb shank served over cactus. Yes, cactus!

10. Amigos Taqueria Y Tequila, Westerly
Located at the top of Canal Street in Downtown Westerly directly in the middle of the downtown nightlife. This is a hip, fun place with colorful decor which hosts live music, karaoke, and paint nights. Discounted tacos on Tuesdays (obviously). A big, back room for large parties. Oh, and Wintry Mint Watermelon Sangria.