In an area such as Lake Tahoe that attracts visitors (and locals) from around the world, one of the lucky results is a melting pot of ethnic restaurants. And some of the most-visited here are the Tahoe restaurants serving Mexican fare. Many of these spots have been popular eateries for decades, and they just keep on pulling in the crowds of hungry, happy diners. Some look like old haciendas and exude the charm and culture of our southern neighbors. Others are located in the middle of a casino or shopping center, so authentic ambiance might be lacking, but the flavors won’t be. Some offer Mexican fare alongside other culinary choices … on the off chance that someone in your party prefers burgers or pizza. If outdoor dining is offered, and it is in many places, head on out (with Fido in tow), order up a pitcher or two of margaritas to provide the prefect complement and relax. If you look at our interactive map, you’ll see a cluster of Mexican restaurants in South Lake Tahoe, but no matter where you are around the lake, you’ll easily find good options for tacos, burritos and more.
Featured for Your Visit
Lake Tahoe Mexican & Southwestern
3310 Lake Tahoe Boulevard, South Lake Tahoe, CA
Elements Eatery & Bar is one of the few restaurants anywhere in the Lake Tahoe Basin that can boast of lake views from its outdoor seating and from every seat inside as well. Even better is the distinctive menu that owners describe as Mexi-Cali. The smash burger has a ton of Latin herbs in it, while the au jus for the French dip is also Latin-based with chili peppers. The menu has shareable items like the Fiesta Nachos, Taco Sampler and Street Fries, a meal in itself with house-made fries and an all-beef hot dog with ketchup, crema, mustard, Tabasco, lime and jalapeno. This South Lake Tahoe restaurant is all about fresh ingredients, from the corn and flour tortillas made in-house to the juices and mixes for the full bar. With the grassy area out front fenced off, adult beverages may be consumed at outside tables. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are available seven days a week. Elements also offers catering for special occasions.
Elements Eatery & Bar is one of the few restaurants anywhere in the Lake Tahoe Basin that can boast of lake views from its outdoor seating and from every seat inside as well. Even better is the distinctive menu that owners describe as Mexi-Cali. The smash burger has a ton of Latin herbs in it, while the au jus for the French dip is also Latin-based with...read more
Elements Eatery & Bar is one of the few restaurants anywhere in the Lake Tahoe Basin...read more
Lake Tahoe Mexican & Southwestern
Casey’s is a spacious restaurant, and you'll find live entertainment on occasion in its Living Room. Casey’s is fun and casual, and the menu of American comfort food is enhanced with Mexican specials and a full bar. They have a large breakfast menu, served until noon, and are happy to host large group events.read more
Lake Tahoe Mexican & Southwestern
For a gastro pub menu and lodge-style dining, head to Cedar House Pub at Granlibakken Tahoe. Guests can enjoy seasonal menus and specials, including a kids’ menu, a full bar and specialty cocktails. There's a cozy fireplace and views of the surrounding mountain scenery. During the warmer months, dining is available on the outside deck. Reservations are recommended on OpenTable, and take-out is available on...read more
Lake Tahoe Mexican & Southwestern
When it comes to tasty food that is obviously created with care and love, there is a place in South Lake Tahoe to seek out: Chicken in a Barrel. Taking the cue from Hawaiian hospitality and the importance of family, Chicken in a Barrel is a dining experience that embodies togetherness. They utilize a one-of-a-kind cooking style in which custom-made drum barrels give chicken, ribs,...read more
Lake Tahoe Mexican & Southwestern
A fixture near downtown Truckee for more than 25 years, El Toro Bravo is one of those places that locals and visitors alike gather to eat, imbibe and have a good time. The key lubricant in keeping the fun flowing is the Mexican restaurant’s margaritas. Order a pitcher or three for your group and the party will soon be rolling. It’s always a good idea...read more
Lake Tahoe Mexican & Southwestern
Empanadas are one of those specialty foods that will win a place in your heart. These Argentinian baked or fried stuffed pastries filled with meats, cheeses, spices, vegetables or fruits are a fantastic way to satisfy a hungry belly. In South Lake Tahoe you can find delicious empanadas at the newly opened Empanash. A family-owned eatery built on the love for empanadas, its creations are...read more
Lake Tahoe Mexican & Southwestern
Fat Cat Bar & Grill is a boisterous locals' hangout that offers great twists on Thai, Mexican and California cuisine. The ambiance is modern, inviting and open. It's across the street from the lake, making it easy to access after a day on the water. A few must-try menu items include Fat Cat Fries, blackened ahi tacos, lettuce wraps and the Farm House Lamb Burger. It's open...read more
Lake Tahoe Mexican & Southwestern
If you want to brag that you’ve been to the highest year-round bar at Tahoe, then you need to drive up Kingsbury Grade and visit Fox & Hound Smokehouse Grill & Bar. A full restaurant and bar, they serve everything you’d expect to find at a good bar and grill, plus they are rightfully proud of their award-winning barbecue. In fact, the Fox & Hound...read more
Lake Tahoe Mexican & Southwestern
If you enjoy fresh, healthy Mexican food, then you must check out Frescana Mexican Bistro. Based on the belief that a dining experience should nourish the body, surprise the taste buds and set the stage for great conversation, Frescana is a casual Mexican experience with flair. With their gigantic menu, every taste bud will find a dish worthy of repeat, from their simple yet flavorful...read more
Lake Tahoe Mexican & Southwestern
Front Street Station serves Mexican food and pizza – a good combination for those looking for something that's quick, easy and tasty. The iconic log cabin that serves as the Tahoe City location has only a few places to sit inside, so if it's busy (as it can be, especially during the summer and after a good ski day) it's recommended to take dishes home...read more
Lake Tahoe Mexican & Southwestern
South Lake Tahoe has a number of small eateries that rely more on the locals than on the tourist trade. When you locate such a restaurant, you can usually count on good food at reasonable prices and a lot of it. Jalapeño’s Taqueria is one such place, not far from the edge of town on Emerald Bay Road. Free homemade chips and salsa and free...read more
Lake Tahoe Mexican & Southwestern
La Mexicana Meat Market & Taqueria is a little corner store and so much more. Just off the main drag in Kings Beach, it’s a full-service grocery with a butcher, fresh produce, dairy and a bakery producing traditional Mexican pastries and breads. You’ll also find a wide variety of spices, seasonings and chili peppers. There’s also a small kitchen producing authentic, made-to-order Mexican food: breakfasts,...read more
Lake Tahoe Mexican & Southwestern
When it's a favorite of the locals, you know it must be good. That is exactly the case for La Promesa Bakery and Mexican Food. A tiny ma-and-pa joint that would be easy to miss if you blinked, this is one of those restaurants that becomes an absolute favorite right from first visit. Known for its scrumptious tacos, chimichangas and carne asada, La Promesa has...read more
