Savor the Fiesta: Top 6 Mexican Restaurants in St Louis for Cinco de Mayo

As the last echoes of April showers fade away, and the vibrant hues of May flowers spring to life, the city of St. Louis shakes off its winter slumber, eager to welcome the spirited celebration of Cinco de Mayo.

Picture this: the rhythmic strumming of a Spanish guitar fills the air, punctuated by the infectious laughter of friends and family. The tantalizing aroma of sizzling fajitas, fresh tortillas, and zesty salsa wafts through the streets, beckoning your inner foodie. The city comes alive with a kaleidoscope of colors, and the festive spirit is as infectious as the melodies that float in the warm spring air.

At Engel & Völkers St. Louis, we usually dedicate our time to showcasing the magnificent homes and captivating neighborhoods of our beloved city. But today, we're swapping open houses for open menus, trading in the keys to the city's finest properties for the key to the city's culinary heart.

So, buckle up, food aficionados and culture vultures, as we embark on a flavorful fiesta and count down the Top 7 Mexican Restaurants in St. Louis, guaranteed to spice up your Cinco de Mayo celebrations.

Prepare for a journey that promises to be as vibrant and exciting as the city we call home. From the bustling streets of Delmar Loop to the charming nooks of Cherokee Street, let's tango with the tantalizing tastes of St. Louis's Mexican cuisine. And who knows? Along the way, you might just find that St. Louis isn't just a great place to eat, but also an incredible place to live. And for that journey, Engel & Völkers St. Louis will be ready and waiting to be your guide.

And now, without further ado, let's dive fork-first into our culinary tour...

1️⃣ Chava's Mexican Restaurant 

Nestled in the heart of Soulard, Chava's Mexican Restaurant has established itself as a cherished neighborhood gem. Its reputation as a local favorite is not by chance, but the result of years of dedication to culinary excellence and a warm, inviting atmosphere.

The restaurant's deep roots in authentic Mexican cuisine can be traced back to Guadalajara, Mexico, the birthplace of Salvador, fondly known as Chava, the owner's grandfather. A true maestro in the kitchen, Chava crafted the original recipes that would eventually find their way onto the menu of this beloved restaurant.

Each dish tells a tale of tradition and taste, a culinary love letter from Guadalajara to St. Louis. The Tacos Al Pastor, marinated pork adorned with pineapple and cilantro, is a melody of flavors that resonates with authenticity. The Enchiladas Suizas, smothered in a creamy green tomatillo sauce, transport you to the vibrant streets of Mexico with every bite.

But let's not forget about the pièce de résistance, their famous margaritas. Crafted with premium tequilas, fresh lime juice, and a family secret recipe, these margaritas are a testament to Chava's legacy. They're more than just a cocktail, they're a sip of Mexican culture, best enjoyed on their patio under the Soulard sun.

➡️ Chava's Website - Order Now

2️⃣ Rosalita's Cantina

In the pulsating heart of downtown St. Louis, where the city's rhythm hits its stride, you'll find Rosalita's Cantina, a beacon of vibrant Tex-Mex cuisine and vivacious celebrations.

As soon as you step through its doors, Rosalita's Cantina wraps you in a warm embrace of infectious energy and the tantalizing aroma of Tex-Mex delights. The restaurant is a testament to the fusion of Texas-sized flavors with the heart and soul of Mexican culinary traditions.

Rosalita's menu is an artful dance of bold and zesty flavors. Their legendary Tacos Al Carbon, with marinated skirt steak folded into homemade tortillas, is a taste sensation that has patrons coming back for more. Their Chile Relleno, a fire-roasted poblano pepper stuffed with queso fresco, is a symphony of textures and flavors that hits all the right notes.

For those with a penchant for seafood, their Camarones a la Diabla, succulent shrimp sautéed in a spicy diablo sauce, is a bold culinary adventure that will leave your tastebuds dancing. And vegetarians, fear not! The Veggie Fajitas, a colorful medley of bell peppers, onions, and zucchini, showcase that in Rosalita's kitchen, flavor knows no boundaries.

And what's a visit to Rosalita's without indulging in their famous margaritas? Crafted with the finest tequilas and fresh-squeezed citrus, their margaritas are a harmonious blend of tart, sweet, and spirited – a perfect companion to your Cinco de Mayo celebrations.

➡️ Rosalita's Cantina Website - Order Now  - Other Locations

3️⃣  Mission Taco Joint 

Scattered throughout the city like hidden culinary treasures, Mission Taco Joint has become a beloved part of the St. Louis dining scene. With an ethos rooted in creativity and innovation, this restaurant serves up West Coast-style street food with a unique Midwestern twist.

From the moment you cross the threshold into any of their locations, Mission Taco Joint invites you on a gastronomic journey. The vibrant murals and lively atmosphere set the stage for a dining experience that is as visually exciting as it is delicious.

The stars of Mission Taco's menu are, without a doubt, its inventive tacos. Take the Baja Fish Taco, for instance. A perfectly fried piece of beer-battered cod is nestled in a soft tortilla, accompanied by a tangy slaw, and topped with fresh pico de gallo and chipotle aioli, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that dance on the palate.

For those who prefer land to sea, the Carne Asada Taco is a must-try. The succulent grilled steak, seasoned to perfection, is complemented by the charred flavors of the onions and the fiery kick of the chili arbol salsa. Each bite is a testament to Mission Taco's commitment to innovation and quality.

But what would a visit to Mission Taco Joint be without a taste of their extensive tequila selection? Whether sipped neat or mixed into one of their signature margaritas, their range of tequilas is sure to elevate your Cinco de Mayo celebrations.

And, of course, the restaurant's dedication to sustainability, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, is yet another reason to fall in love with Mission Taco Joint.

➡️ Mission Taco Website - Order Now - Other Locations

4️⃣ Charro Mexican Restaurant

Situated amidst the charm of Chesterfield, MO, Charro Mexican Restaurant stands as a pillar of culinary delight, offering an oasis of authentic Mexican flavors to those who venture through its doors. This family-owned gem is steeped in tradition, drawing upon generations of culinary wisdom to craft a dining experience that is both heartwarming and palate-pleasing.

Upon entering Charro Mexican Restaurant, you're greeted by the warm hues of its decor, reminiscent of sun-soaked Mexican landscapes. The friendly staff, eager to guide you through the vibrant menu, become your trusted culinary companions on this gastronomic expedition.

At the core of Charro's menu lies the passion for authenticity and attention to detail. Take, for instance, the classic Pollo en Mole, a tender chicken breast bathed in a rich, velvety mole sauce, with subtle hints of chocolate and smoky undertones. It's a dish that truly showcases the restaurant's dedication to bringing age-old recipes to life.

For those seeking a taste of coastal Mexico, the Camarones al Mojo de Ajo is a must-try. Succulent shrimp sautéed in a fragrant garlic-butter sauce, served atop a bed of rice, is a celebration of the ocean's bounty and the skilled hands that have prepared it.

Charro Mexican Restaurant also boasts an impressive selection of margaritas, each one crafted with precision and care, using fresh ingredients and premium tequilas. The refreshing, perfectly balanced concoctions are an essential component of your Cinco de Mayo festivities.

 ➡️ Charro Website - Order Now 

5️⃣ Dos Reyes Mexican Restaurant

Perched in the vibrant neighborhood of Hampton in St. Louis, Dos Reyes Mexican Restaurant stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of Mexican culinary traditions. This family-run establishment is more than a restaurant; it's a conduit to Mexico's vibrant flavors and warm hospitality.

As you step through the doors of Dos Reyes, you're not just a patron, you're family. The welcoming atmosphere, adorned with vibrant colors and rustic decor, immediately envelops you, setting the stage for a memorable dining experience.

Every item on the Dos Reyes menu is a testament to authentic Mexican cooking, the kind that has been passed down through generations. Take for instance their Cochinita Pibil, a slow-roasted pork dish hailing from Yucatan. Marinated in citrus juices and seasoned with annatto seeds, the pork is then wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooked to perfection. Each bite is a melt-in-your-mouth experience that transports you to the sun-kissed Yucatan Peninsula.

For seafood lovers, the Camarones a la Diabla is a revelation. Plump, succulent shrimp are simmered in a devilishly spicy sauce, delivering a dish that is both fiery and utterly delicious. It's a testament to Dos Reyes' ability to balance flavors and textures, resulting in a dish that is as complex as it is comforting.

No Cinco de Mayo celebration at Dos Reyes would be complete without a taste of their signature margaritas. Crafted with quality tequilas and fresh ingredients, these concoctions are the perfect accompaniment to your meal or a standalone treat that embodies the spirit of the holiday.

➡️ Dos Reyes Website - Order Now

6️⃣ La Catrina

Tucked away on the lively stretch of Hampton Ave, St. Louis, La Catrina is a culinary gem radiating with the authentic charm and vibrant flavors of Mexico. This family-owned restaurant takes you on a gastronomic journey, one where tradition meets innovation, resulting in an unforgettable dining experience.

Stepping into La Catrina, you are instantly welcomed by a festive atmosphere, imbued with the warmth of Mexican culture. The restaurant's decor, adorned with traditional Day of the Dead motifs, is a nod to the rich heritage that inspires their culinary craft.

The magic of La Catrina truly comes alive in their thoughtfully curated menu. A standout is their Tacos al Pastor, where marinated pork is expertly grilled, then adorned with a crown of fresh pineapple, cilantro, and diced onions. Each bite is a symphony of flavors, a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and tangy notes that will leave you craving more.

For the adventurous eater, La Catrina's Molcajete bowl is a must. This volcanic stone bowl brims with a medley of seasoned meats, nopales (cactus), and Oaxaca cheese, all simmered in a robust salsa roja. It's a feast for the senses, offering a diverse array of textures and flavors that pay homage to the richness of Mexican cuisine.

And what would a Cinco de Mayo celebration be without a perfectly crafted margarita? La Catrina's margaritas, mixed with quality tequila and fresh lime juice, are a refreshing counterpoint to the bold flavors of their dishes. Sip and savor these delightful concoctions as you immerse yourself in the lively spirit of the holiday.

➡️ La Catrina Website - Order Now

And so, our culinary odyssey through the vibrant streets of St. Louis comes to an end. With each restaurant visited, we've savored the rich tapestry of flavors that make Mexican cuisine such a beloved part of our city's dining scene. We've danced with the fire of chilies, waltzed with zesty margaritas, and reveled in the warm embrace of tradition.

This Cinco de Mayo, as you embark on your own gastronomic adventure, remember to cherish the memories created around the table, for they are as much a part of the celebration as the food and drink that bring us together.

But as we close this delicious chapter, remember that the journey doesn't end here. The heart of St. Louis continues to beat with the rhythm of its lively neighborhoods, its enchanting streets, and its stunning homes. And Engel & Völkers St. Louis is here to guide you through it all, whether you're exploring the culinary delights of the city or searching for the perfect place to call home.

So, go forth, and let the spirit of Cinco de Mayo ignite your passion for the vibrant city of St. Louis. And when you're ready to turn the page to your next adventure, we'll be waiting to help you write your own St. Louis story. Until then, feliz Cinco de Mayo and buen provecho!

➡️ Discover the magic of St Louis with Engel & Völkers St Louis. Browse our stunning property listings here.