While Greeneville might not be the first place you’d think of for authentic Mexican cuisine, the reality is, this Tennessee town boasts some truly remarkable spots. From family-run taquerias serving generations-old recipes to modern eateries putting creative spins on classic dishes, here are our favorite Mexican restaurants in Greeneville.
El Chilango American & Mexican Grill
$ | (423) 329-7372 | WEBSITE
El Chilango is a Greeneville standout, and home to some of the best tacos you’ll find in the entire area. So when it comes to ordering, the Chilango taco with all the meats should always be your first choice. At $9, they’re reasonably priced, but they’re also generously portioned and bursting with flavor. The salsa verde is also a surprising hit, adding a bright, tangy kick that perfectly complements the tender, perfectly cooked meats.
The friendly owner runs two locations, each with its own specialties, and the food truck offers great service with even a free soda for customers. Just remember, it’s a food truck with no seating, but definitely worth the visit for their street tacos, quesadillas, and that perfect house hot sauce.
Casa Guerrero Mexican Cuisine #1
$ | (423) 787-0670 | WEBSITE
This Mexican restaurant in Greeneville is home to the Burrito Mexicano, a generously stuffed tortilla filled with spicy meats and vegetables that arrives so perfectly wrapped in a warm flour blanket that it wouldn’t be out of place at the center of a celebratory feast.
Let us rephrase that—we’d be completely thrilled if one landed on our table every time, because the combination of the fiery heat from the seasoned filling and the satisfying crunch from the fresh vegetables makes this one our favorite versions in town. The family-friendly atmosphere with cartoon movies playing creates a welcoming vibe where you can help yourself to their various sauces for chips while the knowledgeable owner accommodates special requests like vegan options.
At these reasonable prices, it’s easy to see why customers call this their favorite Mexican restaurant in town.
El Azteca Mexican Bar & Grill
$ | (423) 525-4419 | WEBSITE
As with Greeneville’s go-to spot for Mexican classics, El Azteca is a year-round destination. This family-friendly restaurant on the main strip is a permanent fixture and serves a straightforward menu of satisfying staples, including a *must-try* fajitas con pollo. Made with grilled chicken and fresh peppers, the sizzling fajitas are savory and more substantial than whatever $8 fast-casual plate you’d find elsewhere.
They’re juicy and flavorful without being greasy, and the warm tortillas on the side feel perfect for sharing. This dish costs about $9, though, so we’d suggest ordering it as the centerpiece of your meal at El Azteca.
Monterrey Mexican Restaurant
$ | (423) 639-9841 | WEBSITE
Open for years in Greeneville, it doesn’t get more reliable than Monterrey Mexican Restaurant. The dining room has been thoughtfully updated with contemporary touches, but not to worry, the food is better than ever. That includes combination plates, fresh vegetables, and a molcajete worth driving across town to get. But let’s be real: most everyone at the table is here for the margaritas. Our favorites include the frozen version and the perfectly balanced classic.
You can get a large one for $8, and if you want to skip the wait (of course you do), grab a seat at their spacious booths.
La Perla Mexican Restaurant
$ | (423) 638-4943 | WEBSITE
There are several reasons to seek out this authentic gem tucked inside a Latino store in Greeneville. The shrimp cocktail is one of the most flavorful in the area, their freshly made tortillas are worth a special trip, and if you want to extend the experience, there’s a fully stocked market right there, too. Just don’t overlook their tacos. Options include various fillings, but it’s the spicy versions (a house specialty) that truly stand out—three for $12.99, six for $24.
Martinez Mexican Restaurant
$ | (423) 787-0556 | WEBSITE
Martinez Mexican Restaurant is a cozy Mexican spot in the tri-city area offering two different kinds of standout dishes: the Cali Burrito with optional fries and the exceptional chorizo tacos with fresh corn tortillas. The Cali Burrito is packed with flavorful fillings and generous portions, while the chorizo tacos feature authentic spices and perfectly grilled meat. We recommend trying both, and bringing an appetite—these are truly substantial and should not be tackled solo.
The Salsas Restaurant & Catering
$ | (423) 787-0800 | WEBSITE
Located in Greeneville, this popular spot (they’ve earned a place on the 10 Best Mexican Restaurants list) is one of the most reliable Mexican eateries in town. But despite that—and its spacious, family-friendly dining room—The Salsas Restaurant & Catering is still very much a welcoming, neighborhood restaurant with a convenient ground-level entry. As for the food itself, expect authentic dishes like the shredded chicken quesadillas, and expect them all to be hot and delicious.
Casa Guerrero Mexican Cuisine #2
$ | (423) 787-1994 | WEBSITE
The sign outside Casa Guerrero Mexican Cuisine #2 might call it a ‘great find’—a description that feels almost modest now. Because, as the families filling the clean dining room will tell you, this is one of the most popular Mexican spots in Greeneville. We love their chicken quesadilla and veggie nachos, but you can’t really go wrong with anything from their menu. Tip: Opt for dine-in and enjoy the fantastic prices.
Cancun Mexican Restaurant
$ | (423) 787-9300 | WEBSITE
After establishing itself as a beloved local favorite, this family-run Mexican spot continues to deliver consistent excellence. Cancun’s incredible chicken nachos have been a staple, with crispy, well-seasoned chips that hold up perfectly under generous toppings. You can order them as a starter or a main and choose from additions like fresh pico de gallo or a spicier-than-expected jalapeño crema.
There’s no wrong choice, but we love the quesadilla especial, which adds a drizzle of queso fresco loaded with flavor. If you need margaritas by the pitcher for a celebration, Cancun offers them at $6.99 each. The owner greets every table with genuine warmth, and the friendly staff ensures your glass is never empty. With huge portions of fresh, delicious food in a nicely decorated space, this restaurant proves why it remains one of Greeneville’s best.
El mariachi
$ | (423) 589-0899 | WEBSITE
El Mariachi is another Greeneville Mexican restaurant where families can get crowded quickly. Here’s our tip: Head there on a weekday evening. The dinner rush tends to be much calmer compared to weekend afternoons, and the food is just as good. The chicken quesadillas are an essential order here, but if you’re looking for something more traditional, don’t pass up the enchiladas.