When it comes to Latin food there are lots of variations and unique tastes from country or even regions. While we all know some of the most popular dishes, there are so many great dishes that have an authenticity beyond belief. Even though many of the Latin elements might be similar from country to country, each dish has its unique taste and sometimes their own flavor. Take something as simple as even tortillas - flour or corn - it can change the dish dramatically. One of the things were seeing is a play on traditional Mexican flavors being infused or fused with flavor profiles from other cuisines like Asian, the Caribbean and many more.
Latin food in the Queen City continues to expand and evolve. From the fun little hole-in-the-wall taco shops, quick grab and go locations and even the gourmet spots there is something for everyone and every budget. Here is our Top 9 list of Charlotte's best!
No.1 | RuRu's • Myers Park
RuRu's is hands down the BEST in all of Charlotte! Their taco creations match up to their equally creative names. Located in the historic Reynolds-Gormajenko House which is also know to Charlotteans as "The Villa", it's in a well know spot. The patio is the ideal place to enjoy the weather while sipping a hand-shaken margarita and tortilla chips.
What we order • I Am McLovin' Queso • Shake N' Bake Fajitas • Frank the Tank Margarita
715 Providence Rd. • 704.332.7933 $$-$$$
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No.2 | Superica • SouthEnd or Strawberry Hill
Bringing a little bit of Texas to the Queen City, this Tex-Mex icon is mixing some rustic, robust dishes with some more traditional, but no matter which they are big on flavor. They are taking that same concept and carrying it through in the decor. Modern setting with a blend of rustic Mexican touches. Known for an exceptional brunch, the SouthEnd location is serving up some amazing options on Sundays from 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM.
What we order • Queso Fundido • Chicken Verde Enchiladas • Short Ribs • Chilaquiles or Huevos Rancheros (Brunch Only)
101 West Worthington Ave. • SouthEnd
4223 Providence Rd. • Strawberry Hill $$-$$$
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No.3 | Mal Pan • SouthPark
Taking house made to another level with their tortillas and salsas! This family-owned Taqueria is bringing family recipes and adding a modern twist. The chef's Yucatán heritage shines through not only in the food but also in their festive cocktails. The space is a little small but is modern with a nod to the traditional bright floral. The patio is a great option, if you can get a table. This popular spot is becoming a local favorite for sure!
What we order • Cucumber Jalapeno Margarita • Duck Taquitos • Torta De Cochinita Pibil
4625 Piedmont Row Dr. • 980.298.6138 $$-$$$
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No.4 | Pacos Tacos • SouthPark
This Tex Mex hot spot is always busy! Serving up the freshest ingredients, spiced to perfection on the most colorful plates. It really adds to the experience! Just because Tacos is in the name don't feel like you have to try them, although they are good. Paco's is serving up one of the best chopped salads in town. With 85 varieties of Tequila, they are sure to have a cocktail which will wet your whistle. It can get a bit noisy, so if you have the opportunity to sit out on the patio, we would take it.
What we order • Bacon Wrapped Jalapenos • Shake Down Shrimp Tacos • Chopped Salad
6401 Morrison Blvd. • 704.716.8226 $$-$$$
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No.5 | Que Onda • Matthews or Uptown
Let us start by saying this might be our favorite spot then it some to salsa! The salsa is fresh and delicious!!! Enjoy a slightly modern take on authentic Mexican food. Praised for their margaritas - eight fun flavors and a good selection of high-end tequila. If you like Brunch, they are serving up Boozy Brunch every Saturday and Sunday morning. They have great GF options - try any of the tacos in a lettuce wrap.
What we order • Loaded Guac • Suiza Green Enchiladas • La Chimichanga • Adobe Shrimp Skillet Fajitas
3022 Weddington Rd. • Suite 100 • Matthews
333 W. Trade St. • Suite 101 • Uptown $$
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6.| La Caseta • Camp North End
This is the real deal! They are bringing the flavors from Mexico, Argentina, El Salvador and Venezula. Known for its street-style tacos made with fresh, homemade tortillas. The side avocado lime salsa is unbelievably delicious - so good you may want to drink it. While there is no indoor seating and La Casela is located in one of Camp North Ends food booths, there is plenty of outdoor seating for nice weather days.
What we order • Asada Tacos • Revueltas
1801 N. Graham St. • Suite 203 • 980.226. $
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7.| Sabor • Multiple Locations
Sabor has become so popular that it has grown into a Charlotte mini-chain with more than a dozen locations. Everyone raves about this place, and you'll see why. While most of the locations are nothing fancy on the outside, they make it up on the inside. The service is friendly and fast. The salsa bar makes customizing your meal easy. They have everything from mild to a hot - pineapple habanero salsa.
What we order • Salvador Fries • Sabor Nachos • Cuban Bowl • Sabor Marg
Variety of Locations $-$$
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8.| 1900 Mexican • Elizabeth
There is nothing quite like having guacamole made at the table to make dining an experience. The Guava Margarita is refreshing so it's a go to for us, but they have several other hand-crafted cocktails you are sure to like. While they have all the same dishes we all love and know, some of their specialty items are exceptional. Try the Chile Rellenos, the Ceviche, and Mole Poblano. The traditional, colorful flair of Mexico is reflected in the space really adding to the vibe.
What we order • Flautas • Chile Rellenos
1523 Elizabeth Ave. • 704.334.4677 $$
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9.| Bakersfield Tacos • Dilworth
Start with one of their crafted cocktails and make sure you order the tacos! They may be a bit small, but they are big on taste. Plus, the most wonderful thing is you can try quite a few adding to the experience. Everything is fresh and flavorful. This vibrant place has a modern feel, and everyone is always friendly.
What we order • Baja Shrimp Taco • Hongos Taco • Pollo Diablo Taco • Pineapple Magarita
1301 East Blvd. • 980.938.8565 $-$$
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Listed created • 4.27.22