TL;DR — Key Takeaways
Here are the best Mexican spots in Cape Town where tacos rule, tequila flows, and totopos are a must. These restaurants offer more than just food – they offer authentic experiences that bring the spirit of Mexico right to the Mother City. There are sophisticated mezcalerias, coastal Baja-style dishes, and lively hangouts with killer margaritas in this guide.
Why Cape Town’s Mexican Scene Deserves Your Attention
As someone who’s explored Cape Town’s food scene extensively, I can confidently say the city has some hidden gems for Mexican cuisine that go beyond the usual Tex-Mex clichés. These places respect authentic ingredients like masa corn, craft inspired cocktails, and — importantly — don’t shy away from premium agave spirits like mezcal and tequila.
If you’re a fan of well-balanced spice, complex flavors, and vibrant atmospheres, these eight restaurants will redefine your Mexican dining expectations. Let’s dive right in.
1. Una Más: Cape Town’s Premier Mezcaleria
Location: 77 Regent Rd, Sea Point
Vibe: Stylish, trendy, perfect for cocktail lovers and foodies alike
Must-Try: Jalisco-style beef birria tacos, premium mezcal flights
Una Más is not just a restaurant—it’s a celebration of mezcal culture in Cape Town. Run by the Binder brothers, this Sea Point gem is where I first fell in love with premium mezcal served in traditional clay copitas. Their menu, curated by Head Chef Dian Botes, is a treasure trove of Mexican-inspired dishes. The masa corn tacos here are game-changers, especially the beef birria that bursts with umami.
If you want to indulge in over 200 agave spirits, plus expertly crafted margaritas and mezcal-forward cocktails, Una Más is your spot. The Friday night crowds speak volumes about its local love.
Business Hours:
Mon-Thurs: 5 PM – 10 PM
Fri-Sat: 5 PM – 11 PM
Sun: Closed
Pricing:
Tacos: R60 – R95
Cocktails: R80 – R130
Mezcal Flights: R150+
Pros:
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Unmatched mezcal variety
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High-quality, authentic Mexican dishes
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Energetic yet intimate atmosphere
Cons:
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Can get crowded; booking recommended on weekends
Visit Website | Phone: +27 21 434 4440 | Instagram
2. Hacienda: Coastal Mexican with a Baja Twist
Location: 92 Bree Street, Cape Town CBD
Vibe: Chic, modern, perfect for sharing plates and cocktails
Must-Try: Tableside guacamole, kabeljou ceviche, churros for dessert
Hacienda is my go-to when I want that refined yet approachable Baja Peninsula vibe. Their margaritas are legendary, dusted with honey, salt, and tajin for a perfect balance of flavors. The menu is divided cleverly into sections like Land, Ocean, Tacos, Fire, and Dessert, making it easy to navigate.
The fresh kabeljou ceviche with leche de tigre is outstanding, and vegetarians rave about the Oaxaca adobo rice. It’s a place that invites sharing and discovery—bring friends.
Business Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12 PM – 10 PM
Sat: 12 PM – 11 PM
Sun: 12 PM – 9 PM
Pricing:
Small plates: R80 – R120
Margaritas: R90 – R140
Desserts: R50 – R70
Pros:
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Fresh, coastal-inspired dishes
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Extensive tequila and mezcal list
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Friendly, attentive service
Cons:
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Some dishes might be small if you’re very hungry; plan to order multiple plates
Visit Website | Phone: +27 21 424 1234 | Instagram
3. El Burro: The Original Corn Taco Innovator
Location: 79 Main Rd, Green Point
El Burro Taqueria: Corner Church Street & Kloof Nek Road
Vibe: Colorful, fun, classic Mexican food done right
Must-Try: Corn croquettes, chunky guacamole, wide tequila selection
El Burro is a cornerstone of Cape Town’s Mexican dining, introducing many locals to real corn tacos and ceviche that packs the right punch. Their décor is vibrant and full of personality, making the dining experience as memorable as the food. If you’re out late near Kloof Street, the Taqueria version is perfect for a casual refuel.
Business Hours:
Green Point: Tues-Sun, 12 PM – 10 PM
Taqueria: Daily, 4 PM – Late
Pricing:
Tacos: R55 – R85
Cocktails: R70 – R110
Pros:
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Authentic flavors
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Lively, casual atmosphere
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Convenient locations
Cons:
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Limited seating at the Taqueria
Visit Website | Phone: +27 21 434 9998 | Instagram
4. Fat Cactus: A Mother City Institution
Multiple Locations: Bellville Park, Sea Point, Woodstock, Bloubergstrand, Mowbray, Gardens
Vibe: Casual, family-friendly, and perfect for groups
Must-Try: Cowboy Nachos, Chilli Poppers, Iceberg Beer
Fat Cactus has grown to six locations across Cape Town, each with its unique charm but consistent quality. I’m a huge fan of their daily Happy Hour—frozen margarita jugs and endless tequila options make it a hotspot. If you love nachos loaded with chorizo and jalapeños or BBQ pulled pork tacos, this is a no-brainer.
Their signature Iceberg beer—a draught beer topped with a frozen lime margarita iceberg—is an adventurous must-try.
Business Hours:
Varies by location; typically 12 PM – 10 PM daily
Pricing:
Starters: R60 – R90
Mains: R90 – R130
Drinks: R70 – R120
Pros:
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Multiple convenient locations
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Family-friendly environment
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Excellent value for money
Cons:
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Busy during Happy Hour
Visit Website | Phone: +27 21 422 4567 | Instagram
5. Pancho’s: The Boho Tex-Mex Hangout
Location: 127 Lower Main Rd, Observatory
Vibe: Laid-back, lively, student-friendly
Must-Try: Oversized nacho platters, frozen margaritas, jalapeño poppers
Pancho’s is the beloved local for hearty, no-fuss Tex-Mex, especially popular with the student crowd. It’s a festive atmosphere where large portions and legendary frozen margaritas are the stars of the show. If you want casual vibes with a side of serious flavor, this is the spot.
Business Hours:
Daily: 12 PM – 11 PM
Pricing:
Nachos: R75 – R110
Margaritas (glass/jug): R60 – R140
Pros:
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Generous portions
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Great for groups and celebrations
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Affordable pricing
Cons:
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Not strictly authentic Mexican—more Tex-Mex style
Visit Website | Phone: +27 21 447 7890 | Instagram
6. Tortuga Loca: Sustainable Mexican with a Surf Vibe
Location: 141 Main Rd, Muizenberg
Vibe: Cool, eco-conscious, surf-inspired decor
Must-Try: Chicken enchilada, corn ribs, frozen margaritas
Tortuga Loca blew me away with its commitment to sustainability—no beef on the menu, but plenty of chicken, seafood, beans, and jackfruit dishes. The ‘Day of the Dead’ meets surf shack aesthetic makes dining here feel special and relaxed. The portions are generous, and the corn ribs are an absolute highlight.
Business Hours:
Wed-Sun: 12 PM – 9 PM
Closed Mon-Tue
Pricing:
Mains: R80 – R120
Starters: R50 – R70
Cocktails: R90 – R130
Pros:
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Sustainability focus
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Vegan and vegetarian options
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Unique ambiance
Cons:
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Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays
Visit Website | Phone: +27 21 788 6543 | Instagram
7. Mamacita’s: The Best of ‘Cal-Mex’ in Cape Town
Location: 75 Harrington Street, Cape Town CBD
Vibe: Irreverent, punk attitude, vibrant city energy
Must-Try: Flavored margaritas, burritos, tacos
If you’re after ‘Cal-Mex’ with attitude, Mamacita’s is a must. Nestled in the East City precinct, it blends West Coast U.S. flavors with an energetic, punk vibe in both decor and menu. Their late-night bites and eclectic margaritas have made this a favorite haunt for locals and visitors alike.
Business Hours:
Daily: 12 PM – 11 PM
Pricing:
Tacos and burritos: R75 – R120
Margaritas: R85 – R130
Pros:
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Unique, edgy vibe
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Flavored margarita variety
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Great for late-night dining
Cons:
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Can get noisy during peak times
Visit Website | Phone: +27 21 421 7890 | Instagram
8. Didi’s Mexican: Bold Flavors on the Move and Takeaway
Locations:
1 Dorman St, Gardens | Corner Main Road & Dean Street, Newlands | 4 Gabriel Rd, Plumstead
Vibe: Casual, mobile, perfect for quick bites or takeout
Must-Try: ‘Bitchin Burrito,’ nachos, quesadillas
You’ve probably spotted Didi’s Mexican Food Truck around town, but they also have take-away stores perfect for a quick fix of bold, no-nonsense Mexican flavors. Their signature ‘Bitchin Burrito’ with smoky chipotle chicken is a personal favorite—perfect for when you want authentic tastes on the go.
Business Hours:
Varies by location, typically 11 AM – 8 PM
Pricing:
Burritos: R70 – R110
Tacos & Nachos: R50 – R90
Pros:
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Fast, convenient takeaway
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Consistent flavor
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Multiple locations
Cons:
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Limited seating (takeaway-focused)
Visit Website | Phone: +27 21 447 6600 | Instagram
Frequently Asked Questions About Mexican Food in Cape Town
Q: Where can I find authentic Mexican tacos in Cape Town?
A: Una Más, El Burro, and Hacienda are your best bets for authentic corn tacos made with masa, featuring traditional fillings like beef birria and fresh seafood.
Q: Are there vegetarian or vegan Mexican options?
A: Tortuga Loca stands out for its vegan and vegetarian-friendly menu, with many dishes free of beef and focused on sustainable ingredients.
Q: Which restaurant has the best tequila and mezcal selection?
A: Una Más offers over 200 agave spirits, including rare mezcals and premium tequilas, making it a paradise for spirit enthusiasts.
Q: Is Mexican food in Cape Town expensive?
A: Pricing ranges from affordable to mid-range. Casual spots like Pancho’s and Didi’s Mexican are budget-friendly, while Hacienda and Una Más lean toward a pricier but premium experience.
Q: Are there good spots for late-night Mexican food?
A: Yes, El Burro’s Taqueria and Pancho’s Observatory are great for late-night dining and drinks.
Final Thoughts
Cape Town’s Mexican food scene is vibrant, diverse, and growing, with options for every mood and budget. Whether you want a sophisticated mezcal experience, a laid-back Tex-Mex hangout, or sustainable plant-based tacos, these eight restaurants bring authentic, delicious flavors with passion and personality.
So next time you’re craving Mexican, pick a spot from this list and enjoy a journey of bold tastes, colorful vibes, and, of course, margaritas or mezcal in hand!
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article by WakaAbuja about Mexican restaurants in Cape Town is based on research and personal experiences as of the date of publication. Restaurant details such as location, menu offerings, prices, and operating hours may change over time. Readers are advised to verify the latest information directly with the restaurants before visiting. The recommendations reflect personal opinions and taste preferences and do not constitute any form of endorsement or guarantee. The author is not responsible for any discrepancies or changes made by the establishments.
