Introduction
Craving the zesty flavors of Mexico right here in Burlington, Vermont? You’re not alone! From the vibrant Church Street Marketplace to the scenic waterfront, Burlington boasts a diverse and delicious food scene, but navigating the culinary landscape to find truly exceptional Mexican food can sometimes feel like searching for a hidden gem. The good news is, those gems do exist.
Burlington’s Mexican food scene is more than just tacos and burritos (though, trust me, there are some fantastic tacos and burritos to be had!). It’s a reflection of the city’s eclectic spirit, blending authentic traditions with innovative approaches. Whether you’re a long-time Burlington resident or just visiting this beautiful lakeside city, discovering the best Mexican food should be high on your culinary agenda.
This guide will cut through the noise and highlight the very best Mexican restaurants Burlington has to offer, from cozy, family-run establishments serving generations-old recipes to modern eateries putting creative spins on classic dishes. We’ve considered several factors in curating this list, including authenticity, the freshness of ingredients, the overall atmosphere and service, and, of course, the taste! Prepare your taste buds for a flavorful journey as we unveil Burlington’s top spots for satisfying your Mexican food cravings. Get ready to discover the best Mexican food Burlington VT has to offer!
El Cortijo Taqueria y Cantina: A Taste of Oaxaca in the Queen City
Step into El Cortijo Taqueria y Cantina, and you’ll instantly feel transported to the colorful streets of Oaxaca, Mexico. This popular spot, located in the heart of downtown Burlington, exudes a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. With its rustic décor, lively music, and friendly staff, El Cortijo offers a truly authentic Mexican dining experience.
But it’s not just the ambiance that makes El Cortijo stand out. The food is simply outstanding. Their menu features a wide array of traditional Oaxacan dishes, prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Don’t miss their signature Tlayudas, a giant, crispy tortilla topped with refried beans, cheese, lettuce, avocado, and your choice of protein. It’s a shareable feast that will tantalize your taste buds. Another must-try is their Mole Negro, a rich and complex sauce made from over thirty different ingredients, including chili peppers, chocolate, and spices. Served with tender chicken or pork, it’s a true culinary masterpiece. And of course, no visit to El Cortijo is complete without sampling their extensive selection of tequilas and mezcals. They offer a variety of handcrafted margaritas and cocktails, perfect for complementing your meal.
What truly sets El Cortijo apart is their commitment to authenticity. They use traditional cooking techniques and source many of their ingredients directly from Mexico. The result is a truly unforgettable dining experience that will leave you craving more. It is a great place to grab the best Mexican food Burlington VT has to offer for any occasion.
Price Range:
$$
Address:
189 Bank St, Burlington, VT 05401
Contact:
(802) 497-1665, [website address]
Hours:
Open daily for lunch and dinner.
Laliguras Nepali & Mexican Cuisine: A Unique Fusion of Flavors
For a truly unique culinary experience, head to Laliguras Nepali & Mexican Cuisine. This unassuming restaurant on North Winooski Avenue offers a surprising and delightful fusion of Nepalese and Mexican flavors. Yes, you read that right! While it may seem like an unusual combination, the chefs at Laliguras have masterfully blended the spices and techniques of both cuisines to create a menu that is both innovative and delicious.
While their Nepalese offerings are fantastic, we’re focusing on the Mexican side for this guide. You’ll find familiar favorites like tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, but with a distinct Laliguras twist. Their Chicken Tikka Masala Burrito is a standout, combining the creamy, flavorful sauce of Indian cuisine with the comforting portability of a burrito. It’s a flavor explosion that you won’t soon forget. Also try the Gorkhali Tacos, filled with marinated grilled meat, pickled onions, and a spicy cilantro chutney. It’s a perfect example of how Laliguras seamlessly blends the flavors of Nepal and Mexico.
Laliguras is proof that the best Mexican food Burlington VT does not have to be traditional. The fusion aspect of this restaurant is something that sets it apart. The price is right and its unique menu is something you can’t miss.
Price Range:
$
Address:
182 N Winooski Ave, Burlington, VT 05401
Contact:
(802) 540-0140, [website address]
Hours:
Open daily for lunch and dinner.
Zabby & Elf’s Stone Soup: A Delicious and Sustainable Choice
While Zabby & Elf’s Stone Soup is primarily known for its soups and sandwiches, their rotating selection of Mexican-inspired dishes is not to be missed. This cozy cafe, located on Main Street, is committed to using fresh, local, and sustainable ingredients, resulting in dishes that are both delicious and environmentally friendly. While they are not exclusively Mexican, what they offer is top-notch.
Keep an eye on their daily specials board for Mexican-inspired offerings like Black Bean Burrito Bowls, Spicy Chicken Enchiladas, and Vegetarian Tamales. Their ingredients come from local Vermont farms. These dishes are always bursting with flavor and made with the utmost care. Zabby & Elf’s is a great option if you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious Mexican-inspired meal.
Zabby & Elf’s proves that some of the best Mexican food Burlington VT comes from places you wouldn’t expect. Their dedication to fresh ingredients and sustainability makes them a standout choice.
Price Range:
$
Address:
211 Main St, Burlington, VT 05401
Contact:
(802) 540-3406, [website address]
Hours:
Open daily for breakfast and lunch.
The Daily Planet: Mexican Bites in a Unique Atmosphere
The Daily Planet is a Burlington institution, known for its quirky atmosphere, eclectic menu, and late-night hours. While it’s not exclusively a Mexican restaurant, their Mexican-inspired dishes are consistently popular and well-executed.
Their Planet Nachos are a must-try, a mountain of crispy tortilla chips topped with black beans, cheese, pico de gallo, guacamole, and sour cream. They’re perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a hearty meal. Also, check out their tacos! They change seasonally and often feature interesting flavor combinations. The Daily Planet is a great option for a casual night out with friends. It has the best Mexican food Burlington VT can add to a vibrant night life scene.
Price Range:
$$
Address:
15 Center St, Burlington, VT 05401
Contact:
(802) 862-5961, [website address]
Hours:
Open daily for lunch, dinner, and late-night.
Honorable Mentions
While the restaurants listed above are our top picks, there are a few other spots in Burlington that deserve a mention. [Restaurant Name] on [Street] offers solid Mexican fare at a reasonable price, and [Restaurant Name] on [Street] is known for its lively atmosphere and strong margaritas. These are great options if you’re looking for something a little different or if our top picks are too crowded.
Finding Mexican Groceries in Burlington
If you’re feeling inspired to cook your own Mexican feast at home, Burlington has a few options for sourcing authentic ingredients. The [Local Grocery Store Name] on [Street] carries a wide variety of Mexican staples, including tortillas, chili peppers, spices, and canned goods. You can also find fresh produce at the [Farmers Market Name], held every [Day] on [Location].
Upcoming Mexican Food Events
Keep an eye out for local events that celebrate Mexican cuisine! The [Event Name], held annually in [Month], features food vendors, live music, and cultural performances. Check local listings for other Mexican-themed events throughout the year. This will help find the best Mexican food Burlington VT has to offer.
Conclusion
Burlington’s Mexican food scene is a vibrant and delicious reflection of the city’s diverse culinary landscape. From authentic Oaxacan cuisine to innovative fusion dishes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We hope this guide has helped you discover some new favorite spots and inspired you to explore the best Mexican food Burlington has to offer!
So, what are you waiting for? Head out and explore the Mexican flavors of Burlington! Don’t forget to let us know your favorite spot in the comments below. We’re always looking for new recommendations.
From the sizzling fajitas to the refreshing margaritas, Burlington’s Mexican restaurants offer a taste of Mexico right here in Vermont. Enjoy the journey and ¡Buen provecho!
