Best Upscale Mexican Restaurants in Minneapolis | Upscale Mexican Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Mexican Restaurants in Minneapolis | Upscale Mexican Food

• Manny's Tortas — Mexican · rated 5/5: This vibrant culinary crossroads pulses with energy, drawing guests in with the irresistible aroma of toasted bolillo rolls and the fragrant steam rising from fresh tamales and delicate momos. The kitchen masterfully bridges continents, serving up everything from crispy, golden sambusas and savory jerk chicken to pillowy dosas and their namesake gourmet tortas. It is a sensory celebration of global street food where every plate tells a story of tradition and bold, eclectic flavors.
• Abi's — Mexican · rated 5/5: Abi’s welcomes guests into a sun-drenched, intimate space where the hum of lively conversation blends seamlessly with the rhythmic clatter of an open kitchen. Each plate is a vibrant canvas of seasonal flavors and artisanal textures, crafted with a personal touch that turns a simple meal into a soulful, lingering celebration of modern hospitality.
• La michoacana Rose Edina — Mexican · rated 4/5: Step into a kaleidoscope of color where the air is sweet with the scent of ripened tropical fruits and freshly churned cream. Handcrafted paletas in every shade of the rainbow line the glass cases, offering a playful fusion of icy sweetness and bold Mexican spices that dance on the palate. It is a vibrant neighborhood retreat where families linger over towering sundaes and savory snacks, celebrating the simple, sun-drenched joy of a handcrafted treat.
• Papa Chuy's Bakery — Mexican · rated 4/5: The sweet, comforting aroma of toasted cinnamon and warm yeast envelops guests at this vibrant panadería, where shelves overflow with sugar-dusted conchas and golden, crescent-shaped bigotes. From the delicate, thousand-layered crunch of a decadent Mil Hojas to the savory, hearth-baked warmth of a stuffed bolillo, each handcrafted pastry captures the soulful essence of traditional Mexican baking.
• Moroccan Flavors — Middle Eastern · rated 4/5: Step into a vibrant culinary crossroads where the sizzle of the griddle and the aromatic warmth of global spices create an inviting, high-energy atmosphere. The kitchen masterfully bridges continents, serving up everything from delicate, hand-pleated momos and crispy, golden-fried sambusas to savory Mexican tortas and lacy Indian dosas. It is a spirited destination that celebrates the bold, diverse textures of international street food, inviting diners to explore a world of flavor in every bite.
• Andy's Garage — American · rated 4/5: Step into a lively, unpretentious space where the nostalgic charm of an American diner meets the bold, soulful flavors of a Mexican street market. The kitchen hums with energy as chefs press hand-smashed burgers into lacy-edged perfection and assemble towering tortas bursting with vibrant, savory fillings. Every meal is a spirited celebration of comfort, from the squeaky, golden crunch of fresh cheese curds to the tender, steam-kissed warmth of authentic house-made tamales.
• Salsa a la Salsa — Mexican · rated 4/5: Salsa a la Salsa pulses with the vibrant energy of a Latin kitchen, where the air is fragrant with the scent of charred chiles, fresh cilantro, and warm, griddled masa. Guests can dive into zesty plates of citrus-cured ceviche and golden pupusas before exploring a menu rich with smoky chipotle-infused quesadillas and the fiery, bold kick of shrimp diabla. Whether tucked away with a comforting bowl of chicken cilantro soup or sharing a mountain of crisp nachos, every meal feels like a spirited celebration of traditional flavors and modern zest.
• La Bodega Taco Bar — Mexican · rated 4/5: This lively neighborhood escape pulses with energy, where the sizzle of marinated meats and the bright scent of freshly squeezed lime fill a space adorned with eclectic, sun-drenched decor. Hand-pressed tortillas cradle a symphony of bold, authentic flavors, inviting diners to linger over salt-rimmed margaritas in an atmosphere that feels like a perpetual summer celebration.
• Bread & Pickle — American · rated 4/5: Bathed in the soft glow of morning light, this vibrant eatery serves as a refreshing sanctuary where the aroma of toasted grains and farm-fresh eggs fills the air. The kitchen elevates the art of the morning meal, crafting everything from golden organic scrambles and savory breakfast burritos to jewel-toned berry bowls brimming with seasonal sweetness. It is a bright, welcoming space that celebrates wholesome ingredients, offering a sophisticated yet soulful start to the day.
• Mac's — American · rated 4/5: Mac’s captures the nostalgic charm of a classic fish fry, where the golden sizzle of the deep fryer yields perfectly crisp fillets of walleye and halibut that flake at the touch of a fork. Guests gather in a lively, unpretentious space to feast on zesty fish tacos and baskets of tender clams, complemented by the savory indulgence of squeaky cheese curds and rich, gravy-soaked poutine. It is a sanctuary for comfort food lovers, where every bite celebrates the simple, soul-warming joy of expertly fried coastal and lakeside favorites.
• Marissa's Bakery — Mexican · rated 4/5: The air at Marissa’s Bakery is thick with the comforting perfume of caramelized sugar and warm, yeasty dough, drawing guests into a sun-drenched space where flour-dusted counters showcase the artistry of early morning craft. Golden-brown pastries shatter with every buttery bite, while rustic loaves and vibrant, fruit-topped confections create a soulful sanctuary perfect for a slow morning indulgence or a sweet neighborhood escape.
• Sun Street Breads — American · rated 3/5: Sun Street Breads is a sun-drenched neighborhood gem where the comforting aroma of freshly baked sourdough and golden, flaky biscuits fills the air, inviting guests into a space that feels like a warm morning embrace. The kitchen transforms rustic staples into elevated comfort, serving up towering biscuit sandwiches layered with crispy fried chicken and tangy sourdough flapjacks that celebrate the soulful art of the griddle. Whether you are tucking into a hearty breakfast burrito or a decadent plate of savory gravy-smothered biscuits, every bite captures the flour-dusted charm of a bakery that truly understands the heart of a great morning meal.
• La Michoacana Purepecha — Mexican · rated 3/5: A vibrant sanctuary of sweetness where the air is thick with the scent of ripening mango and creamy vanilla, this lively destination draws guests into a world of authentic Mexican treats. Handcrafted paletas in a rainbow of jewel-toned hues offer a refreshing escape, while the bold, savory crunch of traditional street snacks—drizzled with tangy lime and fiery chamoy—ignites the palate with every bite. It is a soulful celebration of Michoacán’s culinary heritage, inviting families to linger over overflowing fruit cups and artisanal scoops in an atmosphere of pure, sun-drenched joy.
• Oro By Nixta — Mexican · rated 3/5: Sunlight dances across a space where the ancient alchemy of nixtamalization transforms heirloom corn into golden, fragrant tortillas that serve as the canvas for a vibrant culinary journey. This spirited destination invites guests to build their own masterpieces from a lavish spread of slow-simmered meats and zesty, hand-crafted salsas, turning every communal meal into a festive celebration of smoke, spice, and heritage.
• Pasteleria Gama — Mexican · rated 3/5: Pasteleria Gama serves as a fragrant sanctuary where the air is perpetually sweetened by the scent of vanilla and freshly whipped cream, drawing visitors into a world of decadent, moisture-rich confections. The heart of the experience lies in their celebrated Tres Leches cakes, each a masterclass in texture that ranges from the tropical brightness of piña colada and sun-ripened peaches to the sophisticated, nutty crunch of coffee-infused pecans. From the deep crimson allure of their velvety red velvet to the classic elegance of marble sponge, every slice offers a celebratory journey through traditional flavors and artisanal craftsmanship.
• Que Chula Es Puebla — Mexican · rated 3/5: This vibrant neighborhood gem transports diners to the heart of Mexico with the intoxicating aroma of sizzling longaniza and the rhythmic press of fresh tortillas. Guests feast on an array of authentic tacos piled high with everything from tender, slow-cooked carnitas to savory lengua, or share platters of crisp, salsa-drenched chalupas that burst with traditional flavor. The unpretentious, lively atmosphere creates a soulful dining experience where the bold, rustic spirit of Puebla is celebrated in every hand-crafted bite.
• Micholandia — Mexican · rated 1/5: Step into a vibrant kaleidoscope of Mexican street food culture, where the air is sweet with the scent of fresh tropical fruits and savory spices. Guests indulge in towering mangonadas dripping with tangy chamoy and hand-crafted ice creams, creating a lively atmosphere that celebrates the bold, playful flavors of a traditional Michoacán-style creamery.
• Pepito's Mexigo Deli — Mexican: Sun-drenched colors and the irresistible scent of charred chilies define this lively corner of flavor, where the soulful heat of Mexican street food meets the bustling energy of a neighborhood deli. Handheld treasures like zesty tortas and spice-rubbed meats are crafted with a focus on bold, authentic ingredients, offering a vibrant escape for those seeking a quick yet deeply satisfying culinary journey.
• Centro Nicollet — Mexican: This lively urban escape pulses with energy, blending industrial-chic design with splashes of bold color and the constant clinking of salt-rimmed margarita glasses. The kitchen turns out a playful array of street-style tacos and fresh, briny oysters, creating a spirited atmosphere where every meal feels like a vibrant celebration of bold, sun-drenched flavors.
• Los Ocampo — Mexican: The air hums with the savory aroma of marinated pork crisping on a vertical spit, drawing guests into a vibrant, bustling space where the rhythmic press of fresh masa sets a lively tempo. Every plate is a celebration of authentic street-food artistry, from the smoky depth of al pastor tacos to the hearty, hand-shaped huaraches topped with bright salsas and cooling crema.
• Valerie's Taqueria — Mexican: Sunlight streams into this vibrant corner spot where the rhythmic press of fresh masa and the sizzle of marinated meats create a lively soundtrack for a casual afternoon feast. Each hand-pressed tortilla serves as a warm canvas for bright salsas and tender, slow-cooked fillings that burst with the bold, sun-drenched flavors of authentic street food. It is a spirited neighborhood gem where the aromatic clouds of spice and welcoming energy invite guests to linger over a cold drink and a plate of perfectly charred tacos.
• Aurelia's Mexican Uptown — Mexican: Aurelia’s Mexican Uptown invites guests into a chic, sun-drenched space where the rhythmic press of handmade tortillas and the bright fragrance of roasted chilies create an immediate sense of warmth and celebration. The kitchen elevates traditional flavors through vibrant, artful presentations, offering everything from velvety house-made moles to citrus-forward crudos that pair perfectly with a smoky mezcal cocktail under the glow of contemporary urban decor.
• Nico's Taco and Tequila Bar — Mexican: This lively destination pulses with energy, where the rhythmic shake of agave cocktails and the sizzle of the grill create a vibrant backdrop for spirited gatherings. Hand-pressed tortillas cradle a kaleidoscope of bold flavors, from succulent slow-braised meats to zesty, house-made salsas that dance on the palate. An extensive library of artisanal tequilas invites exploration, offering the perfect pairing for a night of shared plates and sun-drenched coastal vibes.
• Hola Arepa — Mexican: Vibrant colors and the rhythmic sound of cocktail shakers define this lively Latin-inspired haunt, where the air is thick with the savory scent of griddled corn cakes. Golden, crispy arepas come stuffed with tender slow-roasted meats and zesty house-made salsas, offering a bright explosion of flavor that pairs perfectly with a refreshing, citrus-forward cocktail. This sun-drenched escape captures the energy of a bustling street market, inviting guests to linger over shared plates in a space that feels like a permanent tropical vacation.
• tacosito mexican eats — Mexican: Vibrant colors and the rhythmic chop of fresh ingredients define this lively neighborhood haunt, where the air is thick with the irresistible aroma of charred chilies and warm corn tortillas. Each plate is a celebration of bold, sun-drenched flavors, featuring tender, slow-cooked meats and zesty house-made salsas that bring the spirited energy of Mexican street food to life in every bite.
• Centro — Mexican: Centro pulses with the rhythmic energy of the city, drawing guests into a sun-drenched, modern space where the clinking of glasses and the hum of conversation create a vibrant urban soundtrack. Artfully plated dishes and craft cocktails celebrate seasonal ingredients, offering a sensory journey that bridges the gap between sophisticated dining and the effortless comfort of a beloved neighborhood gathering spot.
• Vivir — Mexican: This sun-drenched sanctuary celebrates the vibrant spirit of Mexican heritage through the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked pan dulce and the earthy, comforting scent of heirloom corn. Guests linger in an airy, art-filled space where bold, chili-laced flavors meet bright citrus notes, creating a soulful dining experience that feels both deeply traditional and refreshingly modern.
• Maya Cuisine — Mexican: Warm, earthy tones and the rhythmic patter of hand-pressed tortillas set the stage at Maya Cuisine, a vibrant sanctuary where the bold, ancestral flavors of the Yucatan take center stage. Guests are enveloped in an aromatic cloud of citrus-marinated achiote and smoky chilies, savoring slow-roasted delicacies that bridge the gap between ancient tradition and modern culinary artistry.
• Don Goyo — Mexican: Don Goyo welcomes guests into a vibrant, sun-drenched space where the intoxicating aroma of slow-roasted meats and toasted spices promises a soulful journey through traditional Mexican flavors. Hand-pressed tortillas arrive steaming alongside succulent, spice-rubbed proteins and zesty house-made salsas, creating a communal dining experience that captures the warm, comforting heart of a cherished family kitchen.
• Bichota Coffee — Mexican: This vibrant caffeine haven pulses with a bold, empowering energy, where the rich aroma of artisanal roasts meets a sleek, contemporary aesthetic. Guests recharge with velvety lattes and punchy espressos amidst a backdrop of rhythmic beats and urban flair, turning a simple coffee break into a spirited celebration of modern confidence.