Discover CharlestonCharleston SC: Top 6 Mexican Restaurants To Grab A Taco in the Holy City

By Abby Hibbard, Guest Contributor

There’s something about the heat in the South that makes you yearn for fresh, flavorful Mexican food and a cold margarita (or cerveza!).  From traditional tacos, to the lowcountry’s take on popular Mexican favorites, you can find just about any flavor and three, four or five “chili-pepper rating ” you’re looking for in Charleston SC. But how do you choose? We’ve highlighted 6 of our top Mexican restaurants in the Holy City. 

Taco Boy – Downtown Charleston & Folly Beach

If you’re looking for an authentic Taqueria where you can find plenty of personality, jalapeno-infused tequila, and mariachi music playing in the background, Taco Boy is the place. From their original location on Folly Beach, they’ve expanded to a second spot in downtown Charleston on Huger Street in the East Side, complete with an adorable patio filled with lounge chairs, dining tables, and festive string lights  – they’re even dog friendly and, if you’re a bike lover, read our blog HERE to find the secret to getting a free margarita!

Mex 1 Coastal Cantina – Sullivan’s Island & West Ashley

If there are two things Mexico does right, it’s tasty food and great surf. You can “drop in ” and find both combined in the best way at Mex 1 Coastal Cantina, featuring a wall of long boards and classic surf highlight videos from around the world. With Baja-style eats featuring Mexican street corn, fresh tacos, bowls, cold cerveza and a habanero pineapple margarita, you really can’t go wrong!

Minero – Downtown on East Bay St

This just might be your new favorite casual Mexican eatery. Brain child of renowned lowcountry chef, Sean Brock, the name is a nod to the story of the taco’s origin as the traditional food of Mexican silver miners. The menu, is a take on both Mexican and lowcountry fare, offering original combinations including catfish tacos and grilled cauliflower served on house-made corn tortillas. The true Mexican experience would not be complete without a drink list of Mexican-inspired cocktails and beverages to pair with the food.

SOL Southwest Kitchen – Downtown on Meeting St, Mount Pleasant & Summerville

A local Mount Pleasant hot spot, SOL offers bold southwest-inspired plates and nearly 70 premium tequilas. True to their name, they serve up favorites from Latin-inspired tacos and quesadillas, to fresh off-the-grill dishes including steak, burgers, and Texas-style BBQ. Boasting a vast selection of tequila, SOL wants to dispel the myths perpetuated by cheap tequila and educate diners on the flavor and quality of good tequila. If all of that and the family friendly atmosphere with indoor and outdoor dining isn’t enough, you can feel good about the portion of proceeds to that are given to a different local charity each month. 

El Pincho Taco – Downtown on Meeting Street

You’re going to want to grab a sombrero and shout “Ole ” because one of the hottest taco spots just opened in the fast-growing Upper King Street District.  Sandra Aguirre, born into Mexican culinary traditions and combining 40 plus years of cooking experience uses family recipes, and fresh ingredients, to serve up the best quality Mexican/Latin Cuisine. El Pincho Taco was wildly popular at pop-up gigs and catering before settling into the upper Meeting Street in Fall of 2018.  El Pincho Taco is now open at 616 Meeting Street.

YoBo Cantina Fresca – Park Circle & South Windermere

Just over the Ashley River bridge, tucked in the Earth Fare anchored Windermere shopping plaza is the unassuming YoBo Cantina Fresca. This charming spot, highlights an authentic south-of-the-border decor and is packed with fresh Mexican flavors featuring freshly infused tequilas, tacos, burritos, quesadillas and more. If you go there more than once, I bet they’ll remember you! 

Note: Now, we know there are PLENTY of other top-notch cantinas to find tasty tacos, nachos, quesadillas and other Mexican flavors, but these are just a few of the favorites that received a shout-out from our fairly informal “office poll. ” Our love of authentic Mexican means we’re open to trying them ALL … so if you prefer Santi’s, Zia’s, La Nortena, Taco Spot or any of the other great spots that elevate Mexican cuisine to a whole new level, let us know your favorites! While you’re out there discovering, don’t forget to explore all Charleston has to offer.