Tacos and margaritas are delightful separately, but combine them with the full spectrum of Mexican cuisine, and you have something transcendent—a vibrant, soul-warming experience with the combined festive energy of a mariachi band, a perfectly balanced salsa sampler, and the comforting aroma of fresh tortillas. And now that we’re deep into the year, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more perfect culinary adventure.
From authentic street tacos to elevated modern moles, here are our top picks in Dublin.
Peru Taco Bar
$ | (614) 389-1621 | WEBSITE
You can find us at Peru Taco Bar any time the thermometer drops below 70 degrees. Actually, scratch that, we’re there regardless of what the thermometer reads. The straightforward menu at this Peruvian spot in Dublin is stacked with tremendous dishes, but it’s the vegetarian tacos that always have our attention. These tacos are filled with Brussels sprouts and other fresh ingredients, and topped with homemade salsa for a pop of brightness.
Local Cantina Dublin
$ | (614) 389-1684 | WEBSITE
The reason to make a beeline to this lively Mexican spot in Dublin is for their $5 ‘Mustache Ride’ margaritas. This is the kind of drink you sip on a Tuesday, crave all week, and then order again on Saturday, because your taste buds can’t go any longer without it. The bright, tangy cocktail is refreshing and strong, and the cheesy mushroom quesadilla soaks up its zesty flavors as you eat. The supreme burrito ties it all together—it’s so hearty and satisfying that sharing is an optional activity.
Dos Hermanos Bridge Park
$ | (614) 683-8786 | WEBSITE
Dos Hermanos Bridge Park at Bridge Park North Market has a number of tremendous Mexican dishes on their menu (the tasty quesadillas with marinated chicken have delighted us during countless visits), but when we’re craving something classic, our heart only has eyes for their chicken fajitas.
This traditional, sizzling platter comes with perfectly seasoned chicken, warm tortillas, and fresh accompaniments, but what really makes it are the flavorful, tender strips that arrive still steaming from the grill. If you want some customization (which you should), be sure to let Javier and the exceptional staff know about any dietary needs—they’ll impress you with their accommodating service.
Moe’s Southwest Grill
$ | (614) 389-7907 | WEBSITE
Moe’s Southwest Grill is one of the best Mexican restaurants in Dublin, and frankly, one of our favorite spots in the whole area, period. Open daily with convenient hours, this clean and well-maintained place specializes mostly in Southwest-inspired dishes like flavorful meats and fresh veggies, but it’s their house special queso with chips and salsa that we’ll brave even the busiest of lunch rushes to enjoy.
You can choose between various competitive sauces, but we actually prefer doing a mix of a few different ones.
El Vaquero Mexican Restaurant
$ | (614) 793-8193 | WEBSITE
Loaded with plump shrimp, melted cheese, roasted poblano peppers, and a creamy queso fundido we’d happily eat with a spoon, the shrimp and poblano queso fundido at El Vaquero is one of the most indulgent and satisfying appetizers we’ve ever tried. At $18, it’s certainly not the cheapest starter in town, but then again, it’s in Dublin, so maybe it is. There’s a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home, and we’re not going to disagree with that vibe.
Bubbakoo’s Burritos
$ | (614) 689-0555 | WEBSITE
Bubbakoo’s Burritos is a welcoming spot in Dublin that specializes in Mexican comfort food: burritos, tacos, and generous rice bowls, among other things. Our go-to order is their classic burrito. This massive wrap is filled with fresh ingredients and seasoned meats in a satisfying combination that never fails to reach down into the busiest parts of our day and make us instantly feel better.
LA TRADICION 2
$ | (614) 761-1478 | WEBSITE
Dining at this tucked-away Mexican spot often means scanning the strip mall for a solid minute to find it. But if you don’t mind the little hunt, this vibrant restaurant is worth your navigation. The Chili Verde burrito is hearty and satisfying, and the shrimp fajitas on the side are perfectly seasoned and sizzling hot. The complimentary salsa isn’t very spicy, but everything is flavorful, including the fresh chips, well-cooked rice, and tender beans.
Also know that the hidden location is the tricky part because once you’re inside, the service comes out quick and attentive.