Best Mexican Restaurants at the Jersey Shore
From authentic taquerias to festive cantinas, discover tacos, burritos, and margaritas at the shore.
12
Top Mexican Spots
8
Margarita Bars
2
BYOB Spots
4
Shore Regions
Mexican Food at the Shore
The Jersey Shore has developed a vibrant Mexican food scene ranging from authentic taquerias serving street-style tacos to festive cantinas with frozen margaritas and Tex-Mex favorites.
Authentic taquerias like Cielito Lindo in Asbury Park and Belmar bring real Mexican flavors with homemade salsas and traditional preparations. For a more casual vibe, burrito joints serve massive portions perfect for refueling after a day at the beach.
Fish tacos are a shore specialty, with many restaurants featuring fresh local catch. Whether you want street tacos, loaded burritos, or a festive dinner with margaritas, the shore has options for every craving.
Monmouth County
Authentic taquerias and beach-casual Mexican
Cielito Lindo
$$BYOBBeloved Asbury Park taqueria with authentic street-style tacos, homemade salsas, and vibrant atmosphere.
Must order: Al pastor tacos
Cielito Lindo Taqueria
$$BYOBBelmar outpost of the popular Asbury Park taqueria with the same authentic flavors and casual vibe.
Must order: Carnitas tacos
10th Ave Burrito Co.
$Belmar favorite for massive burritos, fresh bowls, and quick beach-friendly Mexican food.
Must order: Build-your-own burrito
Acapulqueno Mexican Grill
$$MargaritasLong Branch staple with generous portions of traditional Mexican favorites and family-friendly atmosphere.
Must order: Fajitas
Atlantic City
Cantinas and upscale casino Mexican
Los Amigos
Atlantic CityMexican-American | Festive cantina
Atlantic City Mexican institution with classic Tex-Mex dishes and lively atmosphere.
Try: Combo platters
Cinco De Mayo
Atlantic CityTraditional Mexican | Family casual
Atlantic City Mexican with family recipes, homestyle cooking, and friendly service.
Try: Enchiladas suizas
Dos Caminos
Atlantic CityUpscale Mexican | Upscale cantina
Upscale casino Mexican with premium tequila selection and modern preparations.
Try: Tableside guacamole
Cape May & Wildwoods
Family-friendly Mexican dining
Cinco De Mayo
Cape MayTraditional Mexican | Family casual outdoor
Cape May Mexican with family-friendly atmosphere, classic dishes, and outdoor seating.
Try: Fish tacos
El Mariachi
WildwoodTraditional Mexican | Festive family
Wildwood Mexican with festive atmosphere, generous portions, and classic preparations.
Try: Burrito mojado
Taco Bell Cantina
Ocean CityFast Mexican | Boardwalk quick-serve
Boardwalk fast Mexican option for quick tacos and frozen drinks after the beach.
Try: Baja Blast
Long Beach Island
Island Mexican favorites
La Bamba
Beach HavenMexican-American | Festive cantina
LBI Mexican with festive atmosphere, full bar, and classic Tex-Mex favorites.
Try: Chicken fajitas
Casa Del Sol
Ship BottomMexican-American | Family casual
LBI family favorite with generous portions and welcoming atmosphere.
Try: Chimichanga
Mexican Dining Tips
Try the Tacos
Street-style tacos at authentic taquerias are often the best value and most flavorful option. Order a variety to sample different meats.
Fish Tacos by the Beach
Fish tacos are a shore specialty. Look for restaurants that use fresh local catch for the best experience.
BYOB for Tequila
Some taquerias are BYOB. Bring your own good tequila and make margaritas or enjoy shots with your meal.
Taco Tuesday Deals
Many Mexican restaurants offer Taco Tuesday specials with discounted tacos. Great for budget dining.
Skip the Crowds
Mexican restaurants are popular post-beach. Eat early (before 6 PM) or late (after 8 PM) to avoid peak waits.
Order Extra Salsa
Homemade salsas are a highlight at authentic spots. Order extra and try different heat levels.
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Mexican Dining FAQ
What are the best Mexican restaurants at the Jersey Shore?
Top Mexican spots include Cielito Lindo in Asbury Park and Belmar for authentic tacos, 10th Ave Burrito Co. in Belmar for burritos, and Cinco De Mayo in Cape May for family dining. Atlantic City has several options including Los Amigos and cantinas in the casino resorts.
Where can I find authentic Mexican food at the Jersey Shore?
For authentic street-style Mexican, Cielito Lindo (locations in Asbury Park and Belmar) serves traditional tacos with homemade salsas. Acapulqueno Mexican Grill in Long Branch offers homestyle cooking. Many authentic spots are in the inland areas near shore towns where there's a larger Latino community.
Are there BYOB Mexican restaurants at the Jersey Shore?
Yes! Many smaller taquerias and Mexican restaurants are BYOB. This means you can bring your own tequila for margaritas or Mexican beer. Cielito Lindo and several other casual spots welcome BYOB. Larger restaurants typically have full bars with house margaritas.
Where are the best margaritas at the Jersey Shore?
For margaritas, look to the cantina-style restaurants with full bars. Atlantic City casinos have Mexican restaurants with extensive tequila menus. Beach bars often have frozen margarita specials during summer. For fresh, hand-crafted margaritas, upscale Mexican spots deliver the best quality.
Do I need reservations for Mexican restaurants at the Jersey Shore?
Most casual taquerias and burrito joints don't take reservations and are walk-in only. Upscale Mexican restaurants and cantinas may accept reservations for dinner, especially on summer weekends. During peak season, expect waits at popular casual spots around beach hours.
What Mexican dishes are popular at the Jersey Shore?
Street tacos (carne asada, al pastor, carnitas), burritos, quesadillas, and nachos are staples. Fish tacos featuring local catch are a shore specialty. Many spots offer Mexican-style seafood like ceviche and shrimp cocktails that pair perfectly with beach vibes.
Are there vegetarian options at Mexican restaurants?
Yes! Mexican cuisine offers excellent vegetarian options including bean and cheese burritos, vegetable fajitas, cheese quesadillas, guacamole, and rice bowls. Many taquerias offer mushroom, potato, or grilled vegetable tacos. Ask about lard-free beans if strictly vegetarian.
Is Mexican food good for families at the Jersey Shore?
Absolutely! Mexican restaurants are very family-friendly with kid-pleasing options like quesadillas, tacos, and rice and beans. The casual atmosphere at most spots works well for sandy, post-beach families. Prices are reasonable compared to seafood restaurants.
Related Guides
Ready for Tacos?
From street tacos to festive cantinas, find your perfect Mexican meal at the shore.