Mexican restaurants in Galveston Texas

Mexican restaurants in Galveston Texas

Are you in Galveston and craving sizzling fajitas, fresh ceviche, or melt-in-your-mouth breakfast tacos? Then lucky you because this island’s vibrant culinary scene offers a delicious adventure for Mexican food enthusiasts!

Whether you’re seeking a casual, family-friendly atmosphere like Bambu Mexican Grille, a trendy escape with ocean views at Tortuga Mexican Kitchen, or a taste of delicious Chimichangas at Nopalera Grill Galveston, Mexican restaurants in Galveston have something for you.

Check out our list of the best Mexican restaurants in Galveston TX, and choose where to satisfy those cravings!


Best Mexican Restaurants in Galveston Texas – Categorized by Ambiance

Family-Friendly Galveston Mexican Restaurants

Casual and Trendy Mexican Restaurants Galveston TX

Upscale and Trendy Galveston Mexican Food Restaurants

Mexican Restaurant Galveston with Beachfront Views


Quick Hit Summary of the Best Mexican Restaurants in Galveston Texas

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer seeking unique flavor combinations or a casual diner craving familiar favorites, Galveston Mexican restaurants offer something to tantalize every taste bud.

For those seeking an upscale and innovative experience, La Cocina by Chef Mary Bass stands out. This trendy spot is where classic Mexican dishes get a modern twist.

And if you want to combine the stunning ocean view with a delectable Mexican food Galveston TX fix, Salsas Seaside Hacienda offers the perfect solution. This beachfront restaurant boasts breathtaking vistas of the Gulf of Mexico, creating an idyllic setting for a relaxing meal.

Other must-visit Tex-Mex spots in Galveston also include El Gusto del Pueblo, Chilangos Brothers Taco Shop, and Gorditas Mexico!

So grab your amigos, explore the vibrant culinary scene, and experience a taste of Mexico by the sparkling sea!


Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out. Also, a few links in this article may help HoustonOnTheCheap earn a small commission if you buy something using those links.

Also, check out our articles on Best Restaurants in Galveston and Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Galveston!


Family-Friendly Galveston Mexican Restaurants

Bambu Mexican Grille

This is one of the best Mexican restaurant in Galveston and is a relaxed Mexican cafe that opens early and serves breakfast tacos, burritos, and enchiladas. They are known for their generous portions and fresh ingredients.

  • Must-try dishes: Breakfast tacos (available all day!), burritos
  • Atmosphere: Casual
  • Dietary restrictions: Vegetarian options likely available (call to confirm)
  • Insider tip: Cash only.
  • Location: 1220 23rd St, Galveston, TX 77550
  • Hours: Monday 11 am – 2:30 pm | Tuesday – Sunday 6 am – 2:30 pm

Cafe Canela

Mexican restaurants in Galveston

Image credit: Cafe Canela Restaurant Facebook

This vibrant cafe is known for its delicious and affordable Mexican fare, with a focus on fresh, homemade ingredients.

  • Must-try dishes: Mole poblano, fish tacos
  • Atmosphere: Casual and colorful
  • Dietary restrictions: Vegetarian options available
  • Insider tip: BYOB (Bring Your Own Beer) – a fun twist! 
  • Location: 6105 Stewart Rd Suite C, Galveston, TX 77551
  • Hours: Monday, Wednesday – Saturday 7 am – 8 pm | Sunday 7 am – 3 pm

El Rey

While El Rey is closed on Sundays, this spot is another great option for affordable Mexican fare during the week.

  • Must-try dishes: Reviews recommend their breakfast tacos!
  • Atmosphere: Casual
  • Dietary restrictions: Vegetarian options likely available upon request (call to confirm)
  • Insider tip: They have a different closing time on Saturdays than weekdays.
  • Location: 1519 39th St, Galveston, TX 77550
  • Hours: Monday – Friday 7 am – 2 pm | Saturday 8 am – 1 pm

Los Lazos 

Los Lazos is a restaurant that serves traditional Mexican breakfast, lunch, and dinner cuisine. Years of precedent have perfected their family recipes, which are being enjoyed by future generations. Taquitos Chilangos (Mexican tiny tortillas), El Supremo (the Supreme), and Compadres y Comadres are among their house specialties (Godfathers and Godmothers). 

  • Must-try dishes: Combination plates, breakfast tacos
  • Atmosphere: Casual and family-friendly
  • Dietary restrictions: Vegetarian options likely available upon request (call to confirm)
  • Insider tip: They offer daily lunch specials. 
  • Location: 6316 Stewart Rd, Galveston, TX 77551
  • Hours: Monday – Thursday & Saturday 11 am – 9 pm | Friday 8 am – 11 pm | Sunday 8 am – 3 pm

Nopalera Grill Galveston 

The family-owned diner’s basic décor will not distract you from the exquisite flavor of their home-style Mexican meals. The meal is served hot in a traditional style, with big quantities and moderate costs, utilizing authentic and fresh ingredients. Chimichangas with beef fajitas and Barbacoa are two of their most popular dishes.

  • Must-try dishes: Chimichangas, barbacoa
  • Atmosphere: Casual and family-friendly
  • Dietary restrictions: Vegetarian options available
  • Insider tips: The grill has a tradition of welcoming Bikers!
  • Location: 5001 Broadway Avenue J, Galveston, TX 77551
  • Hours: Daily 4:30 pm – 3 am

Taquilo’s Tex-Mex

This colorful Tex-Mex spot offers a relaxed atmosphere and classic dishes alongside mouthwatering margaritas.

  • Must-try dishes: Fajitas (chicken, shrimp, or Certified Angus Beef®), nachos
  • Atmosphere: Festive and upbeat
  • Dietary restrictions: Vegetarian options available upon request
  • Insider tips: Happy hour specials daily! They have a covered sidewalk patio for outdoor seating.
  • Location: 2101 Postoffice St, Galveston, TX 77550
  • Hours: Sunday – Thursday 11 am – 9 pm | Friday & Saturday 11 am – 10 pm

The Original Mexican Cafe

Since 1916, this restaurant has served authentic Tex-Mex cuisine and has also been chosen as having the greatest Mexican food (except in 2016) and the finest Margaritas (in 2012). Fajitas, platillos, nachos, enchiladas, sopas y ensaladas, platillos, and original specials (especialidades del original) are all on the menu.

  • Must-try dishes: Enchiladas, combination plates
  • Atmosphere: Casual and historic
  • Dietary restrictions: Vegetarian options available upon request
  • Insider tips: They offer a full bar and daily happy hour specials. They have private parking next to the restaurant and street parking is also available.
  • Location: 1401 Market St, Galveston, TX 77550
  • Hours: Monday – Thursday 11 am – 9 pm | Friday 11 am – 9:30 pm | Saturday 8 am – 9:30 pm | Sunday 8 am – 9 pm

Gorditas Mexico

This festive restaurant offers delicious Mexican eats and beers, with both indoor and outdoor seating.

  • Must-try dishes: Gorditas (of course!), carne asada
  • Atmosphere: Casual and festive
  • Dietary restrictions: Vegetarian options available
  • Insider tip: They have a large patio, perfect for enjoying the outdoors!
  • Location: 712 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550
  • Hours: Daily 9 pm – 10:30 pm

La Mixteca Mexican Restaurant and Seafood

The extensive lunch menu includes over 80 dishes that you won’t want to miss! From chile con queso, flameado shrimp, and the Mexican vuelve a la vida cocktail to delectable platters containing Mexican combinations, fresh-from-the-gulf seafood, and your favorite vegetarian dishes, La Mixteca provides perfection with every cuisine presented. Among our top choices for authentic Mexican Restaurants in Galveston! 

  • Must-try dishes: Breakfast tacos (available all day!), carne asada plate, shrimp cocktail
  • Atmosphere: Casual and family-friendly
  • Dietary restrictions: Vegetarian options available upon request
  • Insider tips: Cash only. The best time to go is early for breakfast tacos before the rush.
  • Location: 1818 Mechanic St, Galveston, TX 77550
  • Hours: Daily 7 am – 2:30 pm

Casual and Trendy Mexican Restaurants in Galveston, TX

Chilangos Brothers Taco Shop

This walk-up taco stand offers a taste of Mexico with its delicious and authentic tacos.

  • Must-try dishes: Al pastor tacos (marinated pork), barbacoa tacos
  • Atmosphere: Casual and quick
  • Dietary restrictions: Vegetarian options likely available upon request (call to confirm)
  • Insider tips: Cash only. Perfect for a grab-and-go meal or a quick bite on the beach.
  • Location: 3402 Ave P 1/2, Galveston, TX 77550, USA
  • Hours: Monday – Thursday 10:30 am – 9 pm | Friday & Saturday 10:30 am – 9:30 pm | Sunday 11 am – 8 pm

Mercadito Y Taqueria Inc

The restaurant’s name translates to a convenience shop and taco store in English. It’s a grocery shop that sells all of the critical ingredients for making a taco, including tortillas, sauces, and cheese, as well as fresh vegetables and meats. Other snacks and Mexican specialties such as chicharron, or fried strips of pigskin, are offered by the pound at the restaurant. Among the best authentic Mexican Restaurants in Galveston! 

  • Must-try dishes: Al pastor tacos, quesadillas
  • Atmosphere: Casual and festive
  • Dietary restrictions: Vegetarian options available upon request
  • Insider tips: They have a large patio, perfect for people-watching. They offer a variety of Mexican beers and cocktails.
  • Location: 3802 Broadway Avenue J, Galveston, TX 77550
  • Hours: Monday 6 am – 9 pm Tuesday – Thursday & Saturday – Sunday 6 am – 10 pm | Friday 6 am – 11 am

Pennie’s Tex Mex Take Out

This no-frills spot offers a quick and affordable Tex-Mex fix. Call ahead for takeout or dine in at their picnic tables.

  • Must-try dishes: Enchiladas, breakfast burritos
  • Atmosphere: Casual and quick
  • Dietary restrictions: Vegetarian options likely available upon request (call to confirm)
  • Insider tip: Cash only
  • Location: 1713 37th St, Galveston, TX 77550
  • Hours: Thursday & Friday 11 am – 3 pm | Saturday & Sunday 9 pm – 3 pm

Taqueria El Jardin Tropical

Taqueria El Jardin Tropical

Image credit: El Jardin Facebook

This casual Mexican fast-food eatery is a local favorite with a 4.9-star rating on Google Maps! They have outdoor seating and a menu of classic favorites.

  • Must-try dishes: Barbacoa tacos, stuffed burritos
  • Atmosphere: Casual
  • Dietary restrictions: Vegetarian options likely available (call to confirm)
  • Insider tip: They have extended hours on Friday and Saturday nights!
  • Location: 913 41st St, Galveston, TX 77550
  • Hours: Tuesday – Friday 5 am – 1:30 pm | Monday 8:30 am – 1:30 pm | Saturday 5 am – 2 pm | Sunday 8:30 am – 10 pm 

El Gusto del Pueblo

In 1998, the Lopez couple purchased the former Rex Café and renamed it El Gusto Del Pueblo, which serves traditional Mexican cuisine. The restaurant was granted five stars by Texas Monthly magazine for delivering authentic Mexican dishes crafted with the freshest ingredients and traditions from Yucatan, Puebla, and Vera Cruz. One of the top choices for Galveston Mexican Restaurants! 

  • Must-try dishes: Pozole, birria
  • Atmosphere: Casual and homey
  • Dietary restrictions: Vegetarian options available
  • Insider tips: Cash only. They have a large menu of Mexican sodas and juices.
  • Location: 3714 Broadway Avenue J, Galveston, TX 77550
  • Hours: Daily 7 am – 10 pm

Upscale and Trendy Galveston Mexican Food Restaurants

La Cocina by Chef Mary Bass

Mexican restaurants in Galveston

Image credit: La Cocina Market Facebook

La Cocina began in a kitchen! Chef Mary learned how to express love via food from her grandmother Mary, and it has become a lifelong passion for her. You may stroll into La Cocina and grab ready-to-eat meals, desserts, and snacks right from the case. 

  • Must-try dishes: Duck carnitas, mole poblano
  • Atmosphere: Elegant and sophisticated
  • Dietary restrictions: Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options available
  • Insider tips: Reservations are strongly recommended. They have an extensive wine list.
  • Location: 1506 39th St, Galveston, TX 77550
  • Hours: Monday – Friday 6 am – 6 pm | Saturday & Sunday 6 am – 12 am

Tortuga Mexican Kitchen

They feature a To-Go Menu that you really should not miss, in addition to an outstanding dine-in environment where you can sample their great Tex-Mex cuisine. They have a large menu with a selection of combo platters to pick from, which are available from lunch to dinner.

  • Must-try dishes: Tortuga tacos (made with grilled octopus), ceviche
  • Atmosphere: Trendy and upscale
  • Dietary restrictions: Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options available
  • Insider tips: Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner. They have a great selection of margaritas.
  • Location: 4910 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77551
  • Hours: Sunday – Thursday 11 am – 9 pm | Friday – Saturday 11 am – 10 pm

Mexican Restaurant Galveston with Beachfront Views

Salsas Mexican Restaurant

Salsas Mexican Restaurant

Image credit: Salsas Mexican Restaurant Facebook

This beachfront restaurant offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico along with delicious Mexican cuisine. The local Galveston Daily News and Texas Monthly recognized it for serving the greatest Margaritas in town as well as Mexican delicacies such as enchiladas, quesadillas, fish tacos, chimichanga, as well as tostada. They offer catering and on-site banquet facilities for parties, get-togethers, and events, with menus tailored to your budget and preferences. Top choice for Seafood restaurants in Galveston! 

  • Must-try dishes: Seafood enchiladas, fajitas
  • Atmosphere: Casual and festive
  • Dietary restrictions: Vegetarian options available upon request
  • Insider tips: They have a large outdoor patio, perfect for enjoying the sea breeze. They offer live music on weekends.
  • Location: 4604 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550
  • Hours: Sunday & Monday 11 am – 9:30 pm | Tuesday – Thursday 11 am – 10 pm | Friday & Saturday 11 am – 10:30 pm

What would you include in your list of the Best Mexican Restaurants in Galveston? Comment below to let us know! 


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