If you've got Mexican fare on the brain, you're in luck: we've found the freshest Washington eateries to quell your cravings. Here are the newest places to check out the next time you're in the mood for Mexican food.
Sol Mexican Grill
655 K St. NW, Mount Vernon Square
Sol Mexican Grill is a fast-casual, counter-order eatery. Build your own tacos, burrito, bowl or salad with proteins like carne asada, grilled chicken or chorizo, plus fillers and toppings like Mexican rice, pinto beans and sour cream. For an extra charge, opt for guacamole or added meat. Beyond the build-your-own selection, there's also fish tacos made with tilapia, cabbage, pico de gallo, chipotle aioli, avocado and radish.
With a 3.5-star Yelp rating out four reviews, Sol Mexican Grill is still finding its way, but it's still early days.
Aaron R., who was among the first Yelpers to review the new spot on Jan. 3, wrote, "The variety at Sol is good, and I like that they offer multiple types of greens. They also offer Mexican rice — there is no brown rice as of yet. I got a bowl with chicken and pretty much every topping, and it was a lot of food even though the bowl didn't look super full."
Yelper Pam L. added, “I opted for a burrito bowl filled with the vegetables, beans and their meat substitute. It was so yummy, it hit the spot. You get about two cups of rice, beans and vegetables, and I paid extra for guacamole. I had to force myself to throw the remainder away because I would have eaten myself silly.”
Sol Mexican Grill is open from 10 a.m.–10 p.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m.–9 p.m. on weekends.
Chaia Tacos
615 I St. NW, Downtown
Chaia Tacos has expanded from its original location in Georgetown to this space in Mount Vernon Triangle. What sets it apart is the completely vegetarian menu. Taco ingredients include creamy kale and potato, citrus-roasted beets and braised mushrooms. Many combinations are designed with cheese compliments (feta, goat, pepper jack), but vegans will be taken care of, as well. Sides include black beans, sweet potato soup and green rice made with feta, herb pesto and pepitas.
Chaia Tacos currently holds five stars out of four reviews on Yelp, indicating good reviews.
Yelper Aarti B., who reviewed Chaia Tacos on Jan. 9, wrote, "A nice healthy lunch option. I love how it's tucked away and a great spot to avoid the swarms. The handmade tortillas and vegetarian tacos are bursting with flavor in every bite."
Molly M. noted, "The space is really pleasant — light, airy, and spacious, with plenty of seating. You go up to the counter to order and pay first, and then you can observe your tacos being made in the back."
Chaia Tacos is open from 11 a.m.–9 p.m. daily.
Guapo's of Georgetown
3050 K St. NW, Georgetown
Finally, Guapo's of Georgetown is a Tex-Mex option at The Washington Harbour complex.
The large menu at the local mini-chain starts with appetizers like sautéed shrimp with garlic, herbs and white wine. Platters show off regional cuisines, from chile relleno and Oaxacan tacos to American-style tacos (crispy shells filled with ground beef or shredded chicken) and a taco salad. There are also burritos and enchiladas, plus fajitas and enchiladas.
The drink menu is dominated by tequila- and mezcal-based cocktails, but it also offers wines from across Europe and Latin America.
With a four-star Yelp rating out of 44 reviews on Yelp, Guapo's of Georgetown has been getting positive attention.
Yelper Tammy H., who was one of the first users to review the newcomer on Dec. 16, wrote, "Great spot, fresh food, friendly service. Beautiful view of the ice rink. Their chips are super fresh. Sounds overly simple, but probably my favorite tortilla chips."
Austin G. noted, "It's a massive restaurant where you can walk in any time and be seated straight away. The food was good depending on what you get. My shrimp fajitas were very tasty and filling. My wife's soup was just okay. Our margaritas were good, but not the best in D.C."
Guapo's of Georgetown is open from 11 a.m.–10 p.m. on Sunday-Thursday, and 11 a.m.–midnight on Friday and Saturday.
