Cinco De Mayo is coming soon, but let’s be honest, there’s never a bad time for tacos and margaritas.
Bradenton is home to a ton of excellent Mexican restaurants, but they’re not always easy to find. In fact, some of the most authentic places could be considered the city’s best-kept secrets. No worries, though, you’re about to be “in the know.”
In honor of the upcoming holiday, we’ve scoured the area looking for some new favorites. Taste-testing burritos, enchiladas, margaritas, and house-made sangria isn’t easy work, but somebody had to do it! We also reached out to long-time locals and asked them to reveal their go-to spots for amazing Mexican cuisine.
Now it’s time for you to choose a few from this list, grab your sombrero (or at least your wallet) and head out to explore your options. There’s no need to wait for the 5th, go ahead and start your Cinco celebrations right now!
El Primo Taqueria:Â 1111 Manatee Ave E, Bradenton, FL 34208
Arguably one of the area’s best spots for authentic Mexican food at a price you can’t beat, El Primo Taqueria is a great choice any day of the year. This small, unassuming restaurant offers counter service and outdoor seating. The tacos, burritos, and carne asada are all incredible. No matter what you order, you can be sure your food will be fresh, homemade, and so authentic you’ll feel like you’re actually in Mexico.
Alvarez: 1431 8th Ave W. Palmetto, Florida 34221
One of the oldest and most well-known Mexican restaurants in the area, Alvarez in Palmetto has definitely earned its spot on this list. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor patio seating and a great selection of budget-friendly menu items. They offer $5.99 lunch specials during the week and weekend breakfast specials starting at $3.99. Alvarez is famous for their authentic mole sauce, but you also can’t go wrong with the enchiladas, tamales, and fajitas.
If you’re looking for a fun way to celebrate Cinco De Mayo in true Mexican style, look no further than Alvarez. On Saturday, May 4th from 5 to 11 p.m. they’ll have live music by DJ Tito and DJ Joker, contests, giveaways, and tons of delicious food.
Sr. Fajitas: 316 Old Main St. Bradenton, Florida 34205
Located on Old Main Street in the middle of Downtown Bradenton, Sr. Fajitas offers delicious Tex-Mex food with an upscale flair. The homemade guacamole and queso are always an excellent option, as are the street tacos, burrito loco, and, of course, the fajitas.
Start your Saturday off right by stopping by Sr. Fajita’s for lunch after visiting the Bradenton Farmer’s Market. On Saturday, May 4th, you can also enjoy dinner at Sr. Fajitas before the Main Street Live Cinco De Mayo street party, which will be rockin’ downtown from 5 until 10 p.m.
Doña Betty Tacos: 5510 14th St. W. Bradenton, FL 34207
Located in the parking lot of popular country bar Joyland, Doña Betty Tacos is a favorite among many Bradenton locals. Whether you’re craving some awesome street tacos after a night at the bar or you make a special trip just for the food, you won’t be disappointed. There’s always a big crowd at this food truck on weekend nights, so be prepared to wait in line. Don’t worry, though, the food is well worth the wait!
Habaneros: 5120 Manatee Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34209
For huge portions of delicious Mexican food at a great price, you can’t go wrong with Habaneros on Manatee Avenue West. The chunky homemade Guacamole, homemade salsa, and combo fajitas are some of the best in town. Other popular items include the Pollo Borracho, giant Senor Hambre burrito, and the Steak Hacienda topped with melted cheese and spinach.
Habaneros also has a full liquor bar, happy hour every day from 3 to 7 p.m., and daily specials. On Taco Tuesday you can enjoy $0.99 hard tacos from 5 until close, and $3.99 margaritas on Wednesdays from 3 p.m. until close.
Mr. Tequila: 491 Cortez Rd W, Bradenton, FL 34207
Conveniently located on Cortez Rd. in West Bradenton, Mr. Tequila is another local favorite. Patrons rave about the restaurant’s great food, friendly service, and cozy atmosphere.
The dishes are all fresh and authentic, and the portions are impressive for the price. Enjoy Taco Tuesdays with $0.99 hard tacos. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, they also offer $0.99 draft beers, $2.49 margaritas, and $8.99 fajitas.
Don Beto Jaimes: 6320 15th St E. Bradenton, FL 34243
When it comes to authentic Mexican food, Don Beto Jaimes is the real deal. With fresh handmade tortillas and meats that are grilled outdoors in a giant smoker, everything about this place combines to create a uniquely foreign experience. If you don’t speak Spanish, you’ll definitely be in the minority here. That’s okay, though, since instead of reading a menu, you’ll order by simply pointing to one of the prepared meals set out on the table for that specific day.
If you’re looking for a casual dining experience you won’t soon forget, this is it!
Birdrock Taco Shack: 1004 10th Ave. W. Bradenton, FL 34205
Located in the Village of the Arts right behind Motorworks Brewing, Birdrock Taco Shack rounds out our list of the best Mexican restaurants in Bradenton. This family-owned, beach and surf-themed restaurant is well-known for unique taco flavors including Pork Belly Thai Peanut, Pekin Duck Almond Kung Pao, and Yellowfin Tuna. Start your meal out with the decadent Lobster Nachos or Curried Blue Crab Bisque and don’t forget to ask for a drink menu – they have a well-rounded selection of wine and a larger-than-expected offering of bottled craft beers.
Do you have a favorite local Mexican restaurant that didn’t make this list? Sharing is caring! Please share your comments below.Â
