Tacos al pastor, enchiladas suizas, carne asada. When we think of Mexican dining in Kennewick, we often picture meat-heavy platters. But the carnitas-centric menus that dominate local Mexican restaurants—from family-owned taquerias to upscale cantinas—reflect a culinary narrative shaped more by tradition than by the region’s full agricultural bounty.
Muchas Gracias Mexican Food
$ | (509) 491-1057 | WEBSITE
For those moments when you crave a massive torta in a hurry, head straight to this authentic Mexican spot in Kennewick. Run by a team of friendly and hospitable staff, the menu features generous portions of scratch-made classics, but the real standout is the Chile Rellenos made with pepper jack cheese. While some items like the breakfast burrito can be a bit dense, as someone who appreciates hearty Mexican food, I can definitely get behind Muchas Gracias’ version of the dish.
It’s perfectly cheesy, flavorful, and satisfying thanks to the fresh ingredients and careful preparation.
Cozumel Mexican Cuisine
$$ | (509) 519-3439 | WEBSITE
When you need to satisfy a craving for authentic Mexican food, head to this welcoming spot in Kennewick, run by the owner who greets every guest with genuine warmth. They make generous portions of standout dishes like the Chile Verde burrito (slow-cooked pork in green chili sauce wrapped in a fresh flour tortilla), steak fajitas (sizzling strips of marinated beef with peppers and onions), and red, white, and blue enchiladas (a colorful trio with different sauces and fillings).
Grab a large margarita and enjoy a feast with their stunning sunset view. Or if you’re looking for something more casual, try their steak fajitas to share. These sizzling platters with tender beef, crisp vegetables, warm tortillas, and all the fixings are flavorful, satisfying, and designed to be enjoyed with friends or colleagues.
Mi Linda Sierra Mexican Restaurant
$ | (509) 491-1401 | WEBSITE
This welcoming Kennewick spot full of families takes all things Mexican and makes them memorable – the homemade corn tortillas made fresh daily, arroz con pollo simmered with traditional spices, and fajitas sizzling with peppers and onions are particularly great. Note: I fully recognize that some folks will doubt the appeal of deep fried ice cream, but they should try it before dismissing it entirely.
Mi Linda Sierra also has standout chili Verde, savory tamales, avocado tostadas, and vegetarian enchiladas. Don’t skip out on the complimentary chips and salsa either, like the zesty house salsa and their non-complimentary, but just as satisfying, molcajete loaded with grilled meats.
Taqueria Oaxaca
$ | (509) 820-9399 | WEBSITE
When that craving for authentic street tacos hits, Taqueria Oaxaca in Kennewick is ready with its flavorful Mexican cuisine. While the dinner theatre building next door offers indoor and outdoor seating with entertainment like plays and live music, there are also quick takeout options if that feels more convenient. Both the adobada and tripe tacos are just as well-seasoned, traditional, and positively bursting with flavor as one would expect from their authentic brethren.
To order, head to the lot with various food trucks, including hibachi, loaded baked potato, Thai, and pizza options. The friendly staff accepts both cash and card, and the beautifully plated food makes even takeout look appealing.
El Chapala
$ | (509) 582-7848 | WEBSITE
This Kennewick Mexican spot is a brightly-lit, family-friendly restaurant that works great for a casual weeknight dinner seated in one of their comfortable booths, or someplace to end up sharing chips and salsa with the neighboring table. The kitchen preps dishes like flavorful guacamole, generous portions of tacos, and two different spice levels of salsa (the whole experience is wallet-friendly too).
It’s also a great option for families, with their service being handled by the welcoming staff who treat customers like relatives. Make sure to grab a basket or three of chips, like the mild salsa or the spicier option.
Taqueria El Rancho 2 Food Truck
Cochinita pibil has never gotten its time in the spotlight quite as it does at this Yucatan-style food truck in Kennewick. Here, the tender pork is prepared with such care, all on a homemade tortilla: a base of juicy, flavorful meat with some spicy salsa and pickled onions is topped with creamy avocado slices.
This tucked-away spot at the back of the hub serves authentic Mexican dishes using traditional techniques on tacos that keep customers returning for more in a simple setup that feels a bit hidden gem-y, but in a rewarding way. The tacos de cochinita pibil are quickly becoming my order of choice – they’re made with a touch of spice that adds a nice kick and are served with homemade tortillas rather than store-bought.
Similar to how I like my food prepared, homemade tortillas just taste better than any other kind.
Santa Fe Restaurant
$ | (509) 873-0023 | WEBSITE
“Most people who think Mexican food is just heavy cheese and beans haven’t tried Santa Fe Restaurant,” says the friendly server at this cozy Kennewick spot known for its homemade food and welcoming atmosphere. The menu features flavorful dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and mole, all made with handmade tortillas that highlight the quality.
Their food is so authentic, regulars say, that “…it tastes like abuela’s kitchen.” Hence, you’ll notice lots of family photos and colorful papel picado decorations across the small dining room, creating a lively environment that feels genuinely festive. Atmosphere aside, their chicken enchilada is a comforting plate packed with tender meat and rich sauce. And we definitely recommend you try the horchata—it comes with free refills.
Chapala Express 2 Mexican Restaurant
$ | (509) 820-3811 | WEBSITE
If you want quick, satisfying Mexican food from a family-friendly spot with a kid atmosphere, then Chapala Express 2 in Kennewick has got you. Along with their friendly and helpful staff, the restaurant serves delicious Mexican cuisine featuring standouts like Carnitas De Res and street tacos, plus tasty options including Chile Colorado, Enchiladas, and Macho Burrito.
The counter order place with a drive-thru makes it convenient for quick meals, offering generous portions at reasonable prices around $10-15 per entrée, with a salsa bar featuring a variety of flavors. Many customers appreciate the polite service and the consistently good, fast, fresh food in this casual, brightly lit space with high chairs available.
Taqueria El Molcajete
$ | (509) 579-0081 | WEBSITE
If you’ve never had authentic Mexican food in Kennewick, or just want to try the best, check out Taqueria El Molcajete. The popular spot has a convenient drive-thru and plenty of commercial strip parking available. You would be surprised how many families frequent this restaurant specifically because it’s kid-friendly and offers allergy-friendly options for everyone to enjoy.
While the restaurant focuses on traditional Mexican cuisine, it also caters to various dietary needs with its thoughtful menu. Order everything from the perfectly grilled chorizo burrito and amazing quesabirrias served with grilled onions, lime, and consomé, to the popular Asada Sope-Gordita and three fish tacos with their flavorful sauces.
Costa Vida
$ | (509) 572-2235 | WEBSITE
Costa Vida! While it’s a chain restaurant, it’s still one of the best places not just for Mexican food in Kennewick, but fresh and healthy fast-casual meals in general. The friendly and accommodating staff, like manager Reegan and crew member Jessica, make a rotating selection of classics like burritos and salads with perfectly cooked meat and beans, all with fresh ingredients and generous portions.
Based in Kennewick, Washington, Costa Vida offers affordable prices and healthier options compared to typical fast food, with the ability to customize orders to your liking. With excellent service and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a must-visit for fantastic meals.