Dublin is a food lover’s heaven, but authentic Mexican food is somewhat of a struggle to find. I’ve realized over time that most of the sit-down Mexican restaurants here are either more Tex-Mex in their cuisine or too casual for a nice evening out. Parrilla, Masa, and 777 are all great choices, but they cater to Irish tastes first, so the authentic, spicy flavor is sometimes… I’d say lost in translation.
As someone whose partner is Mexican, I’ve had the pleasure… and sometimes, the disappointment… of trying nearly every Mexican restaurant Dublin has to offer, and believe me, the real gems are often hidden in plain sight. This guide is for anyone who values flavor above all else and is willing to venture a little off the beaten path for an unforgettable meal.
Tacos Lupillo
Then there’s Tacos Lupillo, a real gem tucked away beside Cleary’s pub in Inchicore. Small but with a big reputation, it has a superb 4.8 on Google and an impeccable 5.0 on TripAdvisor. This is the real deal and by far the most excellent Mexican restaurant Dublin has to offer. My girlfriend and I were really looking forward to trying this place out, and it did not disappoint.
The food is just out of this world. We got the Tacos al Pastor and Barbacoa, and they were a definite 10/10. The Pastor is roast pork directly from the “trompo,” and it’s incredible. The salsas were very nice, with just the right amount of spice for us who like a little heat. My partner even said that the Água de Horchata was perfect.
The crew was all so tight, really friendly, and funny. Shout-out to Olivia and Fabricio for having us. They even surprised us with a treat of churros with cajeta, which are simply amazing. It’s that personal touch that makes it such a special experience.
This is a small venue, but every minute is worthwhile. It’s the perfect place for locals and travelers alike looking for authentic Mexican food. We’ll be back soon to try more of the menu. You can drop by 53 Sarsfield Rd, or reach them via Facebook for more information.
Pickosito of Mary Street
After a fantastic feed at Tacos Lupillo, my partner and I were still on the hunt for some additional authentic Mexican places. The second stop was Pickosito, which is at 62 Mary Street. Another top spot that’s a hidden gem is this place, with a fantastic 4.8 on Google. It’s a strong contender for the Mexican restaurant Dublin has, that’s for sure.
The environment is so warm and laid back, like a Saturday morning. The staff is so friendly, and the food is just amazing and so authentic. I try something new each time I go because everything is so good. The enchiladas, tacos, and quesadillas are all wonderful, and they prepare the wheat tortillas right before your eyes.
My partner, being from Mexico, got the pozole and said it was an amazing experience, and the rice is just like home. The sauces are genius, and the “Agua fresca” drinks are so refreshing. The only downside is that it’s upstairs and there’s no elevator, which is a bit tricky with a buggy, but the atmosphere and food are definitely worth it.
This place is the genuine article, and I strongly suggest you try it. The word “authentic” is tossed around, but this one is the real deal. It’s homemade food, friendly people, and a must-visit for anyone wishing to taste the authentic article. You can phone them on 015159600 if you are interested in finding out more.
El Milagro at the Herbert
By a couple of my uni friends, I was told about another great spot for authentic Mexican food: El Milagro. They’re usually around the Herbert Park Sunday market, so it’s a total must-go for the weekend. With an awesome 4.7 rating on Google, this is one of the stand-out contenders for the Mexican restaurant Dublin can provide.
It’s the perfect place for a bit of a spontaneous feed. The atmosphere is really great, casual, and the grub is so nice you’ll keep going back for more. I was recommended it by a few Mexican friends, and I have to say, I was so glad that I went. The staff are so cheerful and so good at what they do, and they make the whole experience so easy.
I ordered the birria tacos and the pork tacos, and, oh boy, they were possibly the greatest tacos I’ve ever had in Dublin. The meat was just incredible, and the flavor was just wonderful. I’m so glad I chanced upon El Milagro because I’m already thinking about when I’ll return and order more of those tacos.
The fact that they are located within the Herbert Park market makes it so easily accessible, and it’s a beautiful place to go for a stroll afterwards as well. It’s a real gem for locals and foreigners alike looking for an authentic Mexican flavor. I’d recommend them to anyone in a heartbeat. You can phone them on +35312238507 for details, or check out their socials to get up to speed.
Salsa in the IFSC
You see, for a speedy and good-tasting Mexican lunch, I couldn’t possibly go past Salsa in the IFSC. It’s one place that my colleagues always used to speak highly of, and it has a very strong 4.4 on Google and 4.0 on TripAdvisor. It’s certainly worth a trip if you’re looking for a great Mexican restaurant Dublin has on offer.
It looks a bit tiny on the outside, but once you open the door, you see it’s much bigger and has a wonderful interior, especially upstairs. It’s very relaxed and homely inside, and the staff are just wonderful. They are so friendly and welcoming, and you can literally taste the love they put into every single dish.
I had the Barbacoa burrito, and I kid you not, it was the most fabulous burrito I’ve ever had. And it was ginormous, a proper feed. The black beans and beef were perfect, and the sauce was gorgeous. Prices are excellent for the standard and amount of food you get.
Every time I go to Salsa, it is a bit of Mexico in the heart of Dublin. The food is always hot and delicious, and the staff are great. It is one to visit if you’re looking for a great and genuine Mexican meal. You can find them at Custom House Square or phone them on 017919672.
Acapulco
After our grand tour of Dublin’s lesser-known Mexican gems, I had to yell out to a more well-known favorite. My last choice on the list is Acapulco at 7 South Great George’s Street. It’s a Dublin institution, and a good bet at 4.2 on Google and 4.1 on TripAdvisor. It’s a great spot for a big meal with some friends and a lively vibe.
The moment you enter, the mood is charged. The décor is great, with bright colours and cozy chairs that literally take you straight to Mexico. Even though it does appear slightly cramped, it only serves to enhance the real feel. The staff are genuinely nice and so welcoming, with a couple of them even being Mexican, which is great news.
We all ordered with some friends and shared the fajitas with steak and the nachos. The steak was perfectly seasoned and had an excellent char on the vegetables, and the tortillas were very soft. I also had the chimichanga, which was great, with excellent filling and a crispy flour tortilla. The margaritas were enormous and delicious!
Even though the prices are slightly higher, the servings are humongous, and the food is so good that it’s well worth every cent. I’d return there for the ambiance, food, and the huge margaritas without hesitation. It’s ideal for a relaxed and delicious meal. You can book a table by calling them on +35316771085 or emailing acapulcodublin@gmail.com.
Bottom Line Is
If the food is the centerpiece of your evening, then you must prioritize venues that deliver the real Mexican tastes. Salsa in the IFSC is a must-visit, as is Pickosito on Mary Street. For the crème de la crème of Mexican cuisine in Dublin, though, a trip to Tacos Lupillo is mandatory. Tucked away in The Saint pub in Inchicore, the venue is a revelation.
For a weekend treat, don’t miss El Milagro at the Herbert Park market, where you’ll find top-notch dishes, especially tacos that taste like they’ve just been pulled off a Mexican street food stall. And that’s about all! Let me know which one was your first pick and which one you enjoyed the most in the comments!