The 15 Best Mexican Food Places in Auckland
David Sims
| Last Updated: November 2023 Why don’t we make jokes about Mexican food? Because it’s a bit too corny. But in all seriousness, when it comes to finding the best Mexican food in Auckland, we’re serious as salsa!
Auckland is home to some of the most authentic and delicious Mexican food places. From street-style tacos to traditional mole dishes, we’ve compiled a list of the best Mexican food places in the city that will have you saying, “¡Más, por favour!”
1. Mexican Cafe
Address: 67 Victoria St West Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010 New Zealand
Hours:
- Sunday – 12 PM to 9:30 PM
- Monday to Thursday – 4 PM to 9:30 PM
- Friday – 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM
- Saturday – 12 PM to 10:30 PM
Phone: +64 9 373 2311
If you’re in the mood for some authentic Mexican flavours right in the heart of Auckland, the Mexican Cafe should be your first stop. It’s a local favourite, known for its vibrant atmosphere and mouth-watering cuisine.
From warm, fresh tortillas to spicy, flavorful salsas, every dish is a little slice of Mexico. And let’s not forget their extensive tequila list, perfect for those who like their meal with a bit of a kick!
Pro Tip:
Make sure to visit on a Sunday evening. They have live Mariachi music, which, coupled with their delicious food, transports you straight to the bustling streets of Mexico City.
2. Taco Loco Cantina
Address: 179 Mount Albert Rd Mount Albert, Auckland 1025 New Zealand
Hours:
- Sunday – 11AM to 9 PM
- Tuesday to Thursday – 5 PM to 9 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 11 AM to 9:30 PM
Phone: +64 9 215 8542
Just a stone’s throw away from the beautiful Mission Bay beach, Taco Loco Cantina is a vibrant, casual spot where you’ll find locals and tourists alike.
Whether you’re in the mood for some classic tacos al pastor or you’re craving a delectable chiles rellenos, Taco Loco Cantina has you covered.
They also offer a variety of vegan and gluten-free options, making them a favourite among diners with dietary restrictions.
Pro Tip:
Head there on a Tuesday, so you can take advantage of their popular ‘Taco Tuesday’ offer with delicious tacos at a discounted price.
3. Mr. Taco
Address: 75 Victoria St West Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010 New Zealand
Hours:
- Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
- Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 8 PM
- Saturday – 11 AM to 8 PM
Phone: +64 9 282 5754
If you’re exploring the vibrant Ponsonby neighbourhood, stop at Mr. Taco. This trendy, laid-back taco joint is a firm favourite among locals and a must-visit for anyone on the hunt for authentic Mexican fare.
Crispy, corn tortillas filled to the brim with carnitas, barbacoa, and more, fresh veggies, and house-made salsas that pack a punch.
Pro Tip:
If you’re visiting Mr. Taco on a Friday or Saturday night, make sure to get there early. From sunset until closing, you can enjoy their tasty tacos at a reduced price. And if you’re a fan of craft beer, you’ll love their rotating selection of unique Mexican brews.
4. Mexican Specialities
Address: 92 Marua Rd Ellerslie, Auckland 1051 New Zealand
Hours:
- Sunday – 11 AM to 1:30 PM
- Tuesday to Wednesday – 10 AM to 3 PM
- Thursday – 11 AM to 3 PM
- Friday – 11 AM to 3 PM & 5 PM to 8 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 3 PM & 5 PM to 8 PM
Phone: +64 9 580 2497
Mexican Specialities is a family-run establishment known for its home-style cooking that transports you straight to the heart of Mexico with each bite. Their menu caters to all taste buds, from the fiery chiles rellenos to the comforting tamales.
The star of the show, though, has to be their enchiladas verdes. And for those with a sweet tooth, don’t leave without trying their churros—they’re simply heavenly.
Pro Tip:
Every Wednesday, Mexican Specialities serves pozole soup, a traditional Mexican stew. It’s a hearty, soul-warming dish that’s definitely a must-try.
5. La Mexicana
Address: 572 Great North Rd Grey Lynn, Auckland 1021 New Zealand
Hours: Sunday & Tuesday to Saturday – 5 PM to 9 PM
Phone: +64 9 360 1623
La Mexicana is renowned for their mouth-watering tacos and ceviche—the perfect blend of sweet and savoury that leaves you craving for more.
And for those looking for a vegetarian option, their ensalada de nopales (cactus salad) is a must-try.
Pro Tip:
Every Friday, La Mexicana hosts a Fiesta Hour where they offer discounted margaritas and tequila shots from 5 PM to 7 PM
6. The Flying Burrito Brothers
Address: 65 Davis Cres Newmarket Auckland 1023 New Zealand
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 12 PM to 10 PM
Phone: +64 9 524 6309
The Flying Burrito Brothers menu showcases a variety of traditional dishes, but the showstopper here is, of course, the burritos. Stuffed to the brim with your choice of flavorful fillings, of course.
If you’re adventurous, try their chile rellenos, and for dessert, treat yourself to their decadent tres leches cake.
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss out on their chiles en nogada!
7. Mexico Ellerslie
Address: 120 Main Hwy Ellerslie Auckland 1051 New Zealand
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 12 PM to 10 PM
Phone: +64 9 600 2216
Mexico Ellerslie boasts a strikingly eclectic interior, reminiscent of the vivid hues and rustic charm of a traditional Mexican market.
Their menu is a fiesta of flavours, with offerings ranging from chicken tinga tacos to prawn quesadillas and their ever-popular churros for dessert.
But the real highlight at Mexico Ellerslie is their enchiladas. The spice level is just right, the fillings are generously portioned, and the sauce is as authentic as you can get outside of Mexico.
Pro Tip:
Ask for the habanero salsa if you’re a fan of spicy food. It’s a fiery delight that will take your meal to the next level. But beware, it’s not for the faint-hearted!
8. Joses Cantina
Address: 12-14 Birkenhead Ave, Birkenhead, Auckland 0626 New Zealand
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday – 3 PM to 10 PM
Phone: +64 9 218 6162
Joses Cantina is a haven for all those who crave the bold flavours and spicy kick intrinsic to Mexican cuisine. From their beef enchiladas to grilled chicken quesadillas, each dish is a flavorful masterpiece.
However, the star of the show at Joses Cantina is undoubtedly the fish tacos. Eat it with their tangy salsa verde and a squeeze of lime.
Pro Tip:
Order the guacamole as an extra on your tacos or with a side of tortilla chips and pair your meal with one of their traditional margaritas or a shot of smooth local tequila to complete the authentic Mexican experience.
9. Lucky Taco
Address: 230 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby, Auckland 1011 New Zealand
Hours: Friday to Sunday – 12 PM to 3 PM
Phone: +64 21 362 008
This food truck is famous for its array of scrumptious and authentic tacos. The menu, though compact, boasts an impressive variety of fillings, from pulled pork to spicy chicken, and even a cactus option for the adventurous.
Pro Tip:
Make sure you try their churros with chocolate sauce. These deep-fried pastries are so popular that they often run out before closing time, so make sure you order them early!
10. Mexicali Fresh
Address: 32 Constellation Dr Rosedale, Auckland 0632 New Zealand
Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 11 AM to 9 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 11 AM to 9:30 PM
Phone: +64 9 476 3179
For those craving a delicious burrito or wanting to indulge in some loaded nachos, Mexicali Fresh is your go-to spot.
Their menu offers an abundance of choices, whether you’re a fan of the classic tacos or want to try their unique dishes with flavours straight from the streets of Mexico.
Try out their make-your-own-burrito. Customise your burrito with a variety of fillings and sauces, ensuring that every bite caters exactly to your taste.
Pro Tip:
Remember to ask for their chipotle sauce—it’s a crowd favourite that adds an extra kick to any dish.
11. Mama Loco
Address: 219 Don McKinnon Dr Albany, Auckland 0632 New Zealand
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 12 PM to 11 PM
Phone: +64 9 444 1076
Mama Loco‘s menu is a foodie’s dream, boasting everything from al pastor tacos to chimichangas, all served up with a generous side of their signature salsa.
But what truly sets Mama Loco apart is their legendary loco bowl. This dish is a riot of flavours that will leave your taste buds tingling.
Pro Tip:
Don’t forget to pair your meal with their one-of-a-kind tamarind margarita. It’s tangy and slightly tart, but perfect to balance out the spiciness of your meal.
12. Marina Cantina
Address: 1 Ara-Tai Rd Half Moon Bay, Auckland 2012 New Zealand
Hours: Sunday & Wednesday to Saturday – 12 PM to 3 PM
Phone: +64 9 535 2276
For all those foodies out there who harbour a deep love for seafood and Mexican cuisine, Marina Cantina is a haven.
Along the picturesque Auckland waterfront, this restaurant combines the best of both worlds, offering a tantalising array of Mexican dishes infused with fresh local seafood.
The chef’s special, prawns al ajillo, is a showstopper. Eat them with the warm, house-made tortillas, which complement the spicy kick of the dish.
Pro Tip:
Be sure to check out their ‘Sunday Salsa Nights’ event. It’s a night of vibrant Latin music and dancing.
13. Cielito Lindo Cafe & Taqueria
Address: 14 The Concourse Henderson, Auckland 0610 New Zealand
Hours:
- Monday & Wednesday to Saturday – 10 AM to 4 PM
Phone: +64 9 835 1828
Stepping into Cielito Lindo feels like stepping into a charming Mexican street cafe. Their menu boasts traditional offerings, with the tacos al pastor being an absolute crowd-pleaser.
These tacos deliver a combination of smoky, tangy, and sweet flavours that will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Mexico City.
A visit to Cielito Lindo Cafe & Taqueria would be incomplete without trying their homemade churros con chocolate. This classic delicacy is the perfect finish to a satisfying meal.
Pro Tip:
If you like spicy, don’t skip out on their housemade salsas! Just be sure to have a glass of water nearby.
14. Tacoteca
Address: City Works Depot 1/90 Wellesley Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Hours: Monday to Saturday – 11 AM to 9 PM
Phone: +6493201336
Tacoteca is the place for Mexican food aficionados seeking an authentic experience. The menu is a fiesta of traditional flavours, offering everything from classic tacos al pastor to ceviche.
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, their churros, crisp on the outside, soft on the inside, and dusted with a perfect mix of sugar and cinnamon, are a must-try.
Pro Tip:
Beer lovers should give their Michelada beer a try—a zesty cocktail of beer, fresh lime juice, and Mexican spices served in a salt-rimmed glass.
15. Taco Medic
Address:188 Quay Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Hours:
- Sunday & Monday – 12 PM to 9 PM
- Tuesday to Saturday – 11 AM to 9 PM
Phone: +6492224710
Taco Medic is a place that infuses a delightful burst of flavours into your mouth. They have got the art of making the perfect taco down to a ‘T’.
What makes their tacos stand out is their soft, fluffy tortillas, which encompass a variety of innovative and delectable fillings. Whether you’re hankering for a hearty carne asada or a zingy fish taco, Taco Medic has you covered.
Pro Tip:
Don’t forget to try their pescado taco. It’s a crowd favourite and often sells out early in the day. So, make sure you get there early to avoid missing out.
