When you think of Nashville, your mind probably jumps straight to blistering hot chicken, towering biscuits, and the neon-soaked honky-tonks of Broadway. But if you look past the standard Southern staples, you’ll discover that Music City harbors a secret: a dynamic, rapidly expanding Mexican food scene that absolutely holds its own.
Over the years, I’ve watched Nashville’s culinary landscape evolve, and some of my most memorable meals here haven't involved barbecue sauce or fried foods. From legendary East Nashville taquerias with lines wrapping around the block to sleek, high-energy cantinas pouring rare mezcals in the Gulch, there is an incredibly diverse range of flavors waiting to be explored. Whether you are hunting for an authentic, slow-braised carnitas street taco or a wildly inventive fusion dish to soak up a night of live music, Nashville delivers.
Let me walk you through a few of my absolute favorite spots to grab a margarita and some killer Mexican food in town.
Mas Tacos Por Favor
If you ask any local where to get the best tacos in the city, there is a very high chance they will point you to this beloved East Nashville institution on McFerrin Avenue. What started years ago as a scrappy operation out of a vintage Winnebago is now a brick-and-mortar powerhouse with a fiercely loyal following (and a stellar 4.7 rating to prove it). The vibe is effortlessly eclectic and wonderfully unpretentious. You stand in line, order at the counter, and try to snag a table. Do yourself a favor and order the cast-iron skillet elote and a bowl of their famous chicken tortilla soup—it’s restorative magic. Pair that with a fried avocado taco and an ice-cold agua fresca, and you've got the perfect Nashville afternoon.
Saint Anejo
When I’m looking for an energetic atmosphere, elevated plates, and an exhaustive list of tequila, I head straight to the Gulch. Saint Anejo on McGavock Street is a masterclass in stylish, rock-and-roll Mexican dining. The space features massive garage doors that roll up in nice weather, turning the entire restaurant into one breezy, bustling patio. With thousands of glowing reviews, it’s no secret that their cocktail program is top-tier. I love grabbing a flight of mezcal and splitting an order of their short rib machaca enchiladas with friends. It’s the ideal starting point for a night out on the town.
Tito's Mexican Restaurant - Nashville West End
Sometimes you just need massive, comforting portions of classic Mexican food served with a side of genuinely warm hospitality. Tucked away on 31st Ave N, Tito’s holds a phenomenal 4.8 rating, making it one of the most highly regarded spots in the city. This is the neighborhood joint you dream of finding when you travel. The moment you sit down, you’re greeted with endless baskets of warm, salty chips and perfectly balanced salsa. Their sizzling fajitas and deeply flavorful enchiladas never disappoint. It’s unpretentious, incredibly consistent, and the exact kind of place I take out-of-towners when we just want to relax and eat incredibly well.
Velvet Taco
If you're spending time near Music Row or lower Broadway, Velvet Taco is a lifesaver. This isn't your traditional taqueria; it's a globally inspired concept that uses tortillas as a canvas for everything from spicy tikka chicken to Cuban roast pork. Set right on Broadway, it caters to the busy, music-loving crowds with fast service and bold flavors. I highly recommend swinging by here for a late-night bite. Their red velvet cake (yes, at a taco shop) is unexpectedly phenomenal, and their rotating Weekly Taco Feature means there's always something new to try.
A Few Local Tips for Your Taco Run
When to Go:
Timing is everything in Nashville. If you want to hit popular sit-down spots like Saint Anejo, I recommend aiming for an early dinner around 5:00 PM or visiting during their spectacular weekend brunch. For counter-service spots like Mas Tacos Por Favor, arrive slightly before the standard lunch or dinner rush unless you don't mind chatting with locals in a fast-moving line.
Reservations & Logistics:
Reservations are a smart move for places in high-traffic neighborhoods like the Gulch (Saint Anejo) or downtown. Taquerias in East Nashville and Midtown generally run on a first-come, first-served basis. Keep in mind that parking in Nashville can be tricky; utilize ride-shares if you plan on diving into the margarita menus!
What to Expect to Pay:
The scene is wonderfully flexible for any budget. You can easily grab a feast of tacos and sides at spots like Mas Tacos or Velvet Taco for around $10 to $15 per person. If you're settling in for a full-service dinner with premium cocktails at Tito's or Saint Anejo, expect to spend closer to $25 to $40 a head.
The next time you find yourself in Music City, dare to step away from the meat-and-three diners for a night. Nashville’s Mexican food scene is vibrant, heavily community-focused, and incredibly satisfying. Grab a few friends, order that second round of chips and guac, and dive in. Let me know which spot you end up loving the most!
