33 Best Mexican Restaurants in Charleston

Restaurantji's Charleston Mexican restaurant picks are here. Enjoy the city's top Chips and Salsa, Nachos, Al Pastor, and other dishes.

Rancho Lewis Mexican • $$
1503 King St, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Traditional Frozen Margarita
Beef Back Ribs Half the Cow
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Old Fashioned Tacos
Guacamole and Chips
Green Chile Pozole
Christmas Burrito
Smothered Burrito
Nachos Especiales
So Far so Bueno

“Finally, an authentic West Texas [El Paso] Mexican restaurant in Charleston, SC. The food was delicious with layers of seasoning and flavors. Authentic Hatch Chilis!! Everything was wonderful. Not your Daddy's Mexican restaurant.Update 4.16.2024: unfortunately the food quality has decreased since Patty left Rancho Lewis. Our last few visits have seen a significant slip in food quality - stale tortillas, room temp food, un-melted cheese in Chilis Rellenos, .... the food just misses the mark. Some items are still excellent, but there are disappointments also in execution.“

4.4 Superb187 Reviews
2

Maya

Maya Mexican • $$
479B King St, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Flourless Chocolate Cake
Chips and Guacamole
Brussels Sprouts
Brisket Tacos
Skillet Queso
Chicken Tacos
Black Beans
Tuna Tostada
Fish Tacos
Churros

“This place is awesome! The hostess was friendly and we couldn’t have had a better waiter than Tyler. We started with the Dip Trio, which the four of us thoroughly enjoyed. All of us were happy with the taste and quantity of our food. I had the Soft-shell Crab, which was very unique for a Mexican dish, but was well executed! My wife and kids enjoyed their food as well. We will definitely go back here again.“

4.3 Superb319 Reviews
El Molino Supermarket Mexican • $$
1610 Sam Rittenberg Blvd Suite 301, Charleston

“The food is amazing and authentic. The workers are super nice and the food comes out fast. There isn't much of an atmosphere because it is a grocery store, but it's still super cool to look around at all the stuff that they have. they also have really amazing baked goods.“

4.7 Superb91 Reviews
Matador Charleston Mexican • $$
235 Meeting St, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Mango-Pineapple Shrimp Salad
Grilled Stuffed Jalapenos
Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Familia Street Tacos for
Roasted Chile Rellenos
Blackberry Habanero
Chicken Fajitas
Black Bean Dip
Shrimp Tacos
Steak Nachos

“This place is all about ambiance, the crafted bars and tables and decor are such a fresh treat for Charleston. And the food is fantastic! Great beans are proof of great food. The Tequila selection is probably the largest I have ever seen! Well Done!“

4.3 Superb128 Reviews
Santi’s Restaurante Mexicano Mexican • $
1302 Meeting St, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Enchiladas Potosinas 2
Camarones À la Diabla
Enchiladas Verdes 2
Mama's Specialty
House Quesadilla
Chips and Salsa
Burrito Grande
Street Tacos
Chimichanga
Pastor Taco

“We ate tacos and my mom wanted veggie tacos and I wanted chicken tacos and they totally mixed it up, my mom got a few chicken tacos and a few veggie tacos whereas I got a few chicken ones mixed in with veggie ones even though we weren’t sharing or anything.Kid-friendliness: They did not have a kids menu which was a but disappointing“

4.4 Superb78 Reviews
Los Reyes Mexican Restaurant Mexican • $$
1119 Wappoo Rd Unit Q, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Shrimp Chicken Steak Fajitas
Fried Beef Chimichanga
Michelada Con Camarones
Camarones a La Diabla
Enchilada Supreme
Fried Ice Cream
Chicken Fajitas
Chips and Salsa
Burrito El Rey
Pollo Jalisco

“Just had the most amazing meal at Thai Mexican restaurant! ? From appetizers to tacos, fajitas and quesadillas, everything tasted delicious. The homemade Mexican sauce is a must-try, it's absolutely mouthwatering. Not only that, but the service was exceptional - the team really knows how to work together to ensure a great dining experience. Keep up the good work, Ans! Highly recommend this place for anyone craving some authentic Mexican cuisine. ?️“

4.5 Superb100 Reviews
YoBo Cantina Fresca Mexican • $
10 Windermere Blvd, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Carnitas Quesadilla
Enchilada Burrito
Chips and Queso
Chips - Salsa
Tortilla Soup
Shrimp Tacos
Black Beans
MO Burrito
Fish Tacos
Guacamole

“The restaurant staff did a great job making accommodations for me and my wheelchair. Despite being busy, the bartender came around and helped me clean food off my chair and arm after one of my fits. Thanks to Abbi for a great first Yobo Cantina experience.Wheelchair accessibility: The space has enough flexibility to accomodate wheelchairs“

4.5 Superb51 Reviews
Rio Chico West Ashley Mexican • $$
1975 Magwood Dr STE. B, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Quesadilla with Chicken and Shrimp
Veggie Burrito and Cheese
Chicken Fajita Quesadilla
Burrito Bean and Rice
Cheese Steak Burritos
Tacos De Pescado mmmm
Fajitas Con Mariscos
Rio Grande Fajitas
Bistec Con Mariscos
Arroz Con Mariscos

“From the moment we walked in, we knew we were in for a treat! The food was so good ?? and the service ?! we love the manager Nahomi she’s so friendly and makes us feel loved and welcomed❤️she’s the best manager ever!!!!!! definitely coming back !!!“

4.6 Superb61 Reviews
Tacos El Pariente Mexican • $
2398 Clements Ferry Rd, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Street Tacos De Carne Asada
Coctel De Camaron
Al Pastor Burrito
Torta Cubana
Quesadillas
Chicharron
Mr Nachos
Burritos
Carnitas
Bistek

“This spot is a fantastic mom and pop Mexian food truck. You can tell they put some love into their food and it shows because I had one of the best torta sandwiches ever! Definitely a must if you're around Daniel's Island and you want something authentic.“

4.7 Superb41 Reviews
California Tortilla Mexican • $
1405 Folly Rd, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Southwest Mesquite Chicken Salad
Create Your Own Burrito or Bowl
Blackened Chicken
Side of Sour Cream
Classic Quesadilla
Chips & Queso
Blackened Fish
Steak Burrito
Rice & Beans
Cubano Bowl

“I love this place! I have been coming since they opened. Such wonderful tasting food. And always made fresh. The staff are courteous and the restaurant is always clean. You should definitely give it a chance. You won't regret it, I promise!“

4.4 Superb74 Reviews
Rio Chico Mexican • $
520 Folly Rd, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Rice Refried Beans Sour Cream Guacamole Pico De Gallo
Grilled Chicken Fajitas Grilled Steak Fajitas
Chicken and Shrimp Fajita
Enchilada Rice and Beans
Cheese Steak Burritos
Deep Fried Ice Cream
Vegetarian Fajitas
Grilled Taco Salad
Rio Chico Salad
Fajita Burrito

“I was a Rio Chico aficianado who was romanced away by the latest Mexican Bar, but I have come back home. Why?- neverending chips and salsa- giganto draft beers and margaritas- warm platesAs a 3rd generation immigrant and CA native I am dangerously demanding with portions and presentation ('yes, but, what would Grandma order?'). Beware the portions - they are giant. I heartily recommend fajitas, tamales y tacos. Accept that you will have extras for lunch tomorrow and order the large Dos Equis on draft or the Medium Margaritas (large only if someone else is driving). Come for your BDay, but don't ask the staff to sing for you - that is for visitors; as a local, order a round of lemon drops and the fajitas to share.“

4.5 Superb53 Reviews
Ru Ru's Tacos & Tequila Mexican • $$
159 E Bay St, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Quesadilla with Black Beans and Corn
Kid's Quesadilla
It Was the Dukes
Long Duck Dong
Steak Burrito
Chicken Fajita
Three Amigos
Shrimp Tacos
Burrito Bar
Steak Taco

“They have great frozen margaritas ! I had the Clarence Beeks Bowl which was skirt steak bowl very tasty ! The waitress was great very attentive and friendly ! We will be going back on our next visit to Charleston ! I highly recommend this place ! I would like to try the tacos next time as a way to expand my horizons !“

4 Good128 Reviews
Señor Tequila Mexican • $
1836 Ashley River Rd Ste A, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Three Tacos Al Senor Steak and Sausage with a Banana Margarita
Fajitas Texanas Mixtas Estuvo Bueno
Senor Tequila Fajita Nachos
Salsa Guacamole and Queso
Tequila’S Lite Salad
Camarones Al Chipotle
Chicken Quesadilla
Chicken Fajitas
Fajitas for Two
Lunch Special

“Update. an amazing place! 3/9/24Luv luv this location everything is always fantastic! But definitely not the Dorchester rd location they constantly mess up our takeout order. Repeatedly let the know but no changes. West Ashley location gets it all right every time and great atmosphere for dine in!!!!“

4.3 Superb82 Reviews
El PinchoTaco Mexican • $
616 Meeting St ste b, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Chips and Salsa
Any 4 Tacos
Al Pastor
Asada

“I went for lunch with a buddy. I got two carnitas tacos with rice and beans which is their lunch special. Everything was great the meat was very flavorful. My friend got the ramen and I tried some and it was very close to being the best ramen I’ve ever had. I will definitely be back and I will definitely get the ramen.“

4.4 Superb55 Reviews
The Lucky Luchador Bar • $$
35 Hanover St, Charleston

“This place is a true gem. It's everything you want from a neighborhood bar including a great staff, good drinks and awesome food options. The local community that Lucky Luchador serves is warm and welcoming--as an out of towner I felt completely embraced by them. I wish I had a great spot like this near where I live, and can't say enough nice things about it. If you're lucky enough to live in Charleston, you won't regret visiting Lucky Luchador.“

4.9 Superb23 Reviews
Cachitas Kitchen Mexican • $$
792 Folly Rd, Charleston

“I got a Cachitaco, a shrimp taco, and a fish taco. The fish and shrimp tacos were both on a double stacked corn tortilla. I know a lot of places that do this, but I'm just not a fan. The stuff inside was very good though. The cachitaco was AWESOME! 5/5, would eat again. They dip a flour tortilla in the rendered fat from the meat, then char it before filling it up with meat and cheese.“

4.7 Superb28 Reviews
Taco Kitchen Mexican • $
2065 Savannah Hwy, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Acapulco Burrito Bigest
Tacos Rice and Beans
Potato and Egg Taco
Fancy Fish Taco
Clasico Burrito
Chips and Queso
Flautas Plate
Jumbo Burrito
Street Tacos
Cheese Sauce

“The food was amazing. The staff was very nice, though communication was sometimes difficult. There was no wait when we came in. We got our food quickly. The tables were clean. This place is a hole in the wall with good food and kind people.“

4.2 Good74 Reviews
Bodega Todo Mexican • $
218 President St, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich
Bacon Cheeseburger
Taco Box Combo
French Fries

“Really glad I don’t own a restaurant in this city, some of these reviews are so hyper-critical and nitpicky.This place is awesome. As someone who is GF/DF, I can safely eat some of my favorite foods that are typically difficult to find allergen friendly.Have been numerous times, never disappoints. Staff are friendly, music is spot on, and the seating is charming.One of the staff even gave us a homemade, complimentary salsa on our way out.Will continue to go back and recommend this to my fellow locals who support local.“

4.2 Good69 Reviews
Taco Boy Charleston Mexican • $
217 Huger St, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Carne Asada Taco Tempura Avocado Taco Fried Chicken Taco
Tres Leches Cake Slice
Tacos and Street Corn
Classic Guacamole Mkt
Mexican Street Corn
Chicken Quesadilla
Nachos with Chicken
Carne Asada Tacos
Grilled Chicken
Corn on the Cob

“Oh boy, let me taco 'bout Taco Boy in Charleston, SC! First off, let me shell out the basics: this place is nacho average taco joint. It's a fiesta of flavors that'll make you wanna salsa dance right there on the beach!Now, I'm a simple man. I like my lawn mowed, my jokes dad-level, and my tacos packed with flavor. And let me tell you, Taco Boy doesn't disappoint. Their tacos are like a treasure chest of taste, and I'm not just spicing things up here. The **Carnitas Taco**? More like Car-NEAT-as, because it's the neatest little package of pork you'll ever eat. And the **Fish Taco**? It's off the hook! Literally, it must've been swimming yesterday because it's that fresh.The atmosphere? It's like if a beach party and a family BBQ had a baby. It's casual, it's fun, and there's enough sun to go around. The decor is as colorful as the language I use when I stub my toe on the beach chair—vibrant and full of life!Now, let's taco 'bout the service. The staff at Taco Boy are the real MVPs. They're quicker than me running to the thermostat when someone touches it. And they're friendlier than me when I see the neighbor's dog—always happy to see ya!But wait, there's more! The **margaritas** are so good, they'll make you forget about your long "to-dew" list. And the **chips and guac**? Holy guacamole, it's like dipping into heaven.So, if you're in Charleston and looking for a place that's got more charm than a dad's puns at a family gathering, head on over to Taco Boy. It's a place where every day is Taco Tuesday, and the only thing better than the food is the company.Taco Boy is the place to be if you're looking to spice up your life with some good eats and great beats. And remember, if you don't like tacos, I'm nacho type of guy! Keep it cheesy, Charleston!“

3.9 Good110 Reviews
20

MESU

MESU Mexican • $$
570 King St, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Barbacoa Braised Beef Taco
Lobster Rangoon Roll
Baja Fish Taco
Chips & Queso
Rainbow Roll
Tsunami Roll
Quesadilla
Tiger Roll
Taco Salad
Mesu Roll

“Delicious sushi and queso and chips! The chips had seasoning salt which made it so yummy! ? We got the Tusunami & Lobster Rangoon Rolls. It was a LOT of food! And honestly they were excellent together! They complimented each other really well! Happy hour was awesome! $2.00 of everything on the menu! Definitely satisfied that craving for Mexican and sushi! It was just what we both wanted.“

4 Good241 Reviews
Azul Mexicano James Island Mexican • $
1989 Maybank Hwy Unit 101, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Fish Taco Pork Taco Chicken Enchiladas
Chicken Quesadilla with Rice and Beans
Kids Grilled Chicken and Fries
Steak Burrito Mexicano
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Vegetable Quesadilla
Chimichanga Dinner
Fajita Quesadilla
Lunch Chimichanga
Azul Chicken Bowl

“Great place for families or social gatherings. We went to the newer suburban location, very spacious and classy decor, easy to park. It's mainly a family business and I think the owner was mostly serving us as it was pretty busy so he was helping out. Not perfect English but a perfect gentleman and extremely accommodating. My family is picky (I'm not) so we actually sent a couple of side dishes back due to cheese or onions being there when it didn't say that on the menu. Which was handled with speed and grace. Speaking of the menu it's huge. They must have like fifty things on there. Sometimes that's a bad sign but not here. Their range is so broad that my son found 'gringo tacos' with just ground beef, cheese and lettuce (exactly what I make for him at home) while I found Chile Colorado, a specialty dish I've never had before. Chopped beef tips in a spicy red sauce. Really hot and delicious. My wife loved the steak Ranchero which came out fajita style and sizzling and daughter liked her veggie bowl. Really enjoyable place.“

4.1 Good76 Reviews
Pericos Mexican Cuisine Mexican •
1990 Hawthorne Dr, Charleston
5 Superb13 Reviews
Juanita Greenberg's Nacho Royale Mexican • $
439 King St, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Nachos Royale
Veggie Nachos
Chips & Salsa
Shrimp Tacos
Quesadillas
Taco Plate
Steak Taco
Burritos
Queso
Fish

“I HAVE to come here EVERY TIME im in town (which is every year)!! I'm talking, even before I go to put my bags down, lol! I always get the chicken nachos. It's something about that cheese that keeps bringing me back, lmao!! I will see you in about 3 months, Juanita!“

4 Good85 Reviews
Casa Fiesta Mexican • $
808 Folly Rd, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Beans and Rice with Salad for Molcajete
Chicken & Bean Quesadilla
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Cheese Steak Burrito
Taco Burrito Combo
Chicken Fajitas
Trio Enchiladas
Rice and Beans
Shrimp Tacos
Chimichanga

“I throughly enjoyed dining here despite what the other reviews might suggest. The restaurant is clean, the service was great, and the food was good! I had the steak Mexicanos and I wouldn't have changed anything about the dish. I also enjoyed the margarita flight. Some flavors more than others, but that was expected. It felt like a bargain to get 4 different decently sized margs for $12. I will definitely return and highly suggest giving it a try!“

4 Good81 Reviews
Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge Mexican • $$
145 Calhoun St UNIT 301, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Hero Doughnut Chicken Sandwich Sliders
Seasonal Salad
Crab Benedict
Crab Tostada
Shrimp Tacos
Steak Tacos
Guacamole
Churros

“We had a huge party of 20 this past weekend but had a little trouble with making our reservation. Tori and Kenzie were so kind and accommodating and went out of their way to ensure we were all sat together and comfortable.Liz was a wonderful server. She was the only server for 20 of us but was professional, kind and efficient.Preston and Deonte were also so kind and helpful.Ritual is one of my favorite places for good food and drinks and a great Sunday Funday vibe!“

3.9 Good123 Reviews
Viva Tacos & Tequila Mexican • $
864 Island Park Dr Suite #105, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Spicy Mango Michelada
Tower of Margaritas
Guacamole Casero
Queso Birria Taco
Chips Salsa
Quesadilla
Empanadas
Fish Taco
Ceviche
Fajitas

“The food was great! Decent prices and a huge verity on the menu. Everything was super tasty and well seasoned. The service was nice and the manager Alex (I assume) was a huge help! The restaurant was also very well decorated and has a nice high ceiling. We wanted to watch a Game and there weren't too many tvs so they sat us by the bar. Everything was fantastic! 9.5/10!“

3.9 Good91 Reviews
Azul Mexicano Downtown Sports Bar • $
385 Meeting St, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Fajitas
Shrimp Tacos
Street Tacos
Chimichanga

“Love this place!Dietary restrictions: They have vegetarian optionsParking: Right next to King. So much to do!Kid-friendliness: Great place to bring the kids for some queso while you have a marg!Wheelchair accessibility: Wheel chair ramp on side of building.“

3.9 Good86 Reviews
Mex 1 Coastal Cantina Mexican • $$
817 St Andrews Blvd, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Herradura Seleccion Suprema
Baja Spiced Santos Shrimp
Spicy Shrimp Quesadilla
Bangin' Shrimp Taco
Bangin Shrimp Taco
Street Corn Queso
Rice and Beans
Nachos Mamas
Triple Dipper
Chicken Bowl

“My Stars! The corn cheese dip is out of this world ? So delicious ?? absolutely love the banging shrimp ? Taco. The new pick 2 tacos and rice with beans . My new favorite! The corn chips are warm airy and crisp. This is my favorite restaurant.“

3.9 Good74 Reviews
Pink Cactus Charleston Mexican • $
100 A Spring St, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

House Made Guacamole and Chips
Pollo Taco and Carnitas Taco
Queso Fundido Con Chorizo
Chips and Guacamole
Cauliflower Taco
Chips and Salsa
Chile Relleno
Cheese Dip
Enchiladas
Rice Bowl

“Cute corky place to eat at. Service was good and so was food. Wish we could try their ceviche and but by 7:30 pm they ran out of few staples and closed early. Pink cactus lemonade was good. Place has a nice vibe. We only sat outside so I am not sure how inside is. Pink cactus decor outside was super cute.“

3.7 Good87 Reviews
Agaves Cantina Mexican • $
885 Island Park Dr, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Tortilla Soup
Taco Salad Chicken
Chips and Salsa
Street Tacos
Cheese Dip
Carnitas
Fajitas
Steak
Pepe

“Hard to give 5 stars for the food. I had the street tacos. They were good especially the pork with pineapple. The service and atmosphere was very good. The prices are very reasonable especially for 2024 . Will definitely go back and try to find the 5th ?!“

3.7 Good70 Reviews
El Gallo bar and grill Mexican • $
2601 Clements Ferry Rd, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Salad Beans and Rice
Cocktail Campechano
Mixed Meat Fajitas
Fresh Guacamole
Steak Mexicano
Quesadilla
Cheese Dip
Carnitas
Chicken
Cameron

“The food is phenomenal. The service is impeccable. The drinks are on-point. I’ve sat down and ordered takeout multiple times from this place and they never disappoint. The staff is always friendly and inviting. The cooks know what they’re doing. I love this place.“

3.8 Good60 Reviews
Santi’s West Ashley Mexican • $
1660 Savannah Hwy, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Cheese Dip
Salsa

“Excited to try the new Santi's in West Ashley! I have been a fan of the original Santis downtown for years. This new addition is fun, funky and a fantastic addition to this side of the river. The decor is fun and vibrant. Lots of artwork, murals and a Frida vibe. The food was delicious and the prices were great! They have lunch specials and favorites. We tried an appetizer, three entrees, a round of drinks for 75 dollars before tax and tip. Excited to have a fun spot for margaritas and Mexican food close by!“

3.8 Good48 Reviews
Agaves Cantina West Ashley Mexican • $$
3871 W Ashley Cir Unit 320 & 330, Charleston

Customers` Favorites

Queso Fundido Con Chorizo
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Cheese Steak Burrito
Fried Chimichanga
Cheese Quesadilla
Quesadilla Fajita
Tortilla Chips
Fajita Chicken
Shrimp Tacos
Chicken Taco

“I had the Taquitos Mexicanos & it was amazing !!! it comes with 2 chicken & 2 steak. Me personally, i love the steak much better!! I ordered a side of steak to go on top of my lettuce, rice, sour cream, guac & tomatoes & i used the chips we get to make a nacho type of thing ! Was going to order churros until i found out that their frozen & come pre-made with caramel inside them. I hate caramel so that was a disappointment. Our server was super nice !“

3.6 Good68 Reviews