Looking to satisfy your appetite for Mexican fare? Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the best affordable Mexican restaurants around Minneapolis, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of the best spots to venture when cravings strike.
1. Maya Cuisine
Topping the list is Maya Cuisine in northeast Minneapolis. Located at 1840 Central Ave. NE, the Mexican spot is the highest rated budget-friendly Mexican restaurant in Minneapolis, boasting 4.5 stars out of 308 reviews on Yelp.
This no-frills location offers economically pleasing tacos, tostadas and tamales. Look for taco fillings like spicy shredded beef, grilled steak or Mexican sausage with potatoes.
2. El Taco Riendo
Next up is El Taco Riendo, situated at 2412 Central Ave. NE in northeast Minneapolis. With four stars out of 348 reviews on Yelp, the Mexican spot has proven to be a local favorite for those looking for an affordable option.
This offering has an expansive menu and includes staples such as tacos, burritos, fajitas, nachos, enchiladas and more. Expect additional fare such as chicken, beef or pork stuffed quesadillas, deep-fried chimichangas, menudo and traditional Mexican sandwiches.
3. Manny's Tortas
Over in the the Midtown Global Market, Manny's Tortas at 920 E. Lake St., Suite 125, is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the inexpensive Mexican spot, which offers sandwiches and more, 4.5 stars out of 71 reviews.
Run by restaurateur Manuel Gonzalez, this spot's go-to is its tortas, but appetizers and salads also line its menu. Check out the chicken, turkey, steak, Hawaiian or veggie tortas, all served with cheese, tomato, lettuce, onion, avocado, jalapeño peppers, refried beans, chipotle pepper mayo and chips.
4. La Loma Tamales
La Loma Tamales is another much-loved, inexpensive go-to in the Midtown Global Market, with 4.5 stars out of 62 Yelp reviews. Head over to 920 E. Lake St., Suite 162, to see for yourself. This brick-and-mortar location is La Loma's fourth offering in Minneapolis.
Owners Noelia and Enrique Garcia moved to the United States in search of a new future from their home in Quebrantadero, a small town deep in the heart of Mexico’s heartland, according to the business' website.
The eatery offers breakfast and lunch fare. The breakfast menu features options like Mexican-style eggs, huevos rancheros and breakfast burritos, and lunch fare like fajitas, enchiladas and meat quesadillas.
5. Taqueria Los Ocampo
Finally, check out Taqueria Los Ocampo in Midtown, which has earned four stars out of 165 reviews on Yelp. Dig in at the Mexican spot, which offers traditional Mexican fare and more, by heading over to 809 E. Lake St.
This small chain started business in Minneapolis in 2003 and has since expanded around Minneapolis and into neighboring St. Paul. Two-dozen meals grace the restaurant's menu. Grab a burrito, quesadilla or gordita with choice of meat or turn it into a combo, or opt for other options like a Cubano sandwich or plate of nachos.
