The aroma of sizzling fajitas and freshly made tortillas dances in the air in Georgetown, Texas, a town that’s quickly becoming known for more than just its charming historic square. Georgetown is flourishing with people and a great many restaurants. The Mexican food scene here is vibrant, diverse, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re a long-time local or a visitor eager to explore the culinary landscape, this article is your passport to the best Mexican restaurants Georgetown has to offer, from traditional family-run kitchens to modern Tex-Mex hotspots. Get ready for a culinary journey filled with flavor, spice, and plenty of opportunities to shout “¡Delicioso!”
Authentic Mexican Soul in Georgetown
Let’s start with what truly feeds the soul: authentic Mexican cuisine. When we talk about authentic, we’re talking about dishes crafted with recipes passed down through generations, using traditional cooking methods, and often featuring ingredients sourced directly from Mexico. It’s about experiencing the real taste of Mexico, right here in Georgetown.
Abuela’s Cocina
Tucked away in a modest building, this is a true gem of a family-owned restaurant and restaurant. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by the warm smiles of the staff and the comforting aroma of slow-cooked meats and fragrant spices. Abuela’s Cocina is authentic because the recipes come directly from the owner’s grandmother, preserving time-honored flavors that have been enjoyed for decades.
The must-try dish here is undoubtedly the Mole Poblano. This rich, dark sauce, a complex blend of chilies, chocolate, nuts, and spices, is simmered for hours to achieve its incredible depth. It’s served over tender chicken or turkey and is an absolute revelation. The Tamales, steamed corn husks filled with savory meat or sweet fillings, are also a perennial favorite. Everything is made from scratch, ensuring a truly authentic experience.
Abuela’s Cocina is located at Main Street and you can reach them through their website. They are a moderate restaurant, so expect to pay around $$ for a complete meal. Locals rave about their homemade tortillas and the warm, inviting atmosphere.
El Corazon de Mexico
This restaurant lives up to its name. The restaurant boasts brightly painted walls, traditional Mexican artwork, and the sounds of Mariachi music playing softly in the background. What sets El Corazon de Mexico apart is their dedication to regional specialties. They serve dishes from different parts of Mexico, offering a true taste of the country’s culinary diversity.
Don’t miss their Cochinita Pibil, a slow-roasted pork dish marinated in achiote paste and citrus juices, originating from the Yucatan Peninsula. The pork is incredibly tender and flavorful. Another standout dish is their Tacos de Barbacoa, slow-cooked lamb tacos served with cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime. The barbacoa is cooked in a traditional underground pit, giving it a smoky, earthy flavor that is simply unforgettable.
El Corazon de Mexico can be found on the corner of Guadalupe St. They have a good website and an Instagram page to contact them. It is another moderate restaurant, around $$. Customers say that the ambiance transports you to Mexico.
Casa de Sabor
This is a newer addition to Georgetown’s Mexican food scene. It quickly earned a reputation for its commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients. They source many of their ingredients directly from local farms and markets. The atmosphere is bright and modern, with colorful accents and a lively energy. Casa de Sabor takes a contemporary approach to authentic Mexican cuisine, creating dishes that are both traditional and innovative.
Be sure to try their Enchiladas Verdes, filled with chicken or cheese and topped with a tangy tomatillo sauce. The sauce is made with fresh tomatillos, cilantro, and jalapeños, giving it a bright, vibrant flavor. Also the Aguachile, a spicy shrimp ceviche marinated in lime juice, chilies, and cucumbers. It’s a refreshing and flavorful dish.
Located just off the square, you can search the restaurant by searching it online. The food is a little on the expensive side, so be prepared to pay around $$$. People find their drinks and food to be extremely addicting.
If you are looking for other options, you can visit restaurants like Tacos La Catrina and Los Tapatios, both known for their authentic and great tasting tacos and dishes.
Tex-Mex Temptations in Georgetown
Now, let’s dive into the world of Tex-Mex, that beloved fusion of Mexican flavors and American culinary traditions. Tex-Mex is characterized by its use of familiar ingredients like ground beef, yellow cheese, and flour tortillas, often resulting in hearty and satisfying dishes. While Tex-Mex has its roots in Mexican cuisine, it’s evolved into its own unique style, and Georgetown has some fantastic Tex-Mex restaurants to offer.
El Fuego Cantina
This is a Georgetown institution that has been serving up Tex-Mex favorites for many years. The atmosphere here is casual and family-friendly, with colorful decorations and a lively vibe. El Fuego Cantina is known for its generous portions, affordable prices, and consistently delicious food.
The must-try dish here is their Fajitas, sizzling strips of marinated beef or chicken served with grilled onions, peppers, and all the fixings: guacamole, sour cream, cheese, and warm flour tortillas. Their Enchiladas, filled with cheese, beef, or chicken and smothered in chili con carne, are also a classic choice. And be sure to try their Margaritas, which are legendary in Georgetown.
El Fuego Cantina is easily found online and they are located on the north part of Georgetown. It is cheap with high ratings, so be prepared to pay around $. The happy hour specials are also amazing.
Rio Grande Grill
This is a modern Tex-Mex restaurant with a stylish atmosphere and a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant offers a more upscale Tex-Mex experience, with creative dishes and handcrafted cocktails. Rio Grande Grill is known for its innovative menu and its commitment to using high-quality ingredients.
Don’t miss their Shrimp Tacos, filled with grilled shrimp, mango salsa, and a creamy chipotle sauce. The tacos are served on warm corn tortillas. Or try their Queso Flameado, a skillet of melted cheese topped with chorizo, mushrooms, and peppers, served with warm tortillas. The Queso Flameado is a perfect appetizer to share with friends.
Check out their website online and make a booking. It is a modern and sophisticated Tex-Mex experience, so be ready to pay around $$$. Their unique and flavorful dishes are worth the price.
The Cactus Flower
This is a family-owned restaurant that offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The walls are adorned with colorful artwork and the staff is always friendly and attentive. What sets The Cactus Flower apart is their focus on traditional Tex-Mex recipes with a modern twist.
Their Chili Rellenos are a standout dish. They are poblano peppers stuffed with cheese, battered and fried, and topped with a tangy tomato sauce. They are a classic Tex-Mex dish with a unique twist. Their Burritos, filled with rice, beans, cheese, and your choice of meat. They are served with a side of guacamole and sour cream, are also amazing.
This small local restaurant can be found online and is located in the heart of Georgetown. It is very affordable, around $, and their cozy and friendly atmosphere brings back customers.
Also, don’t forget to visit the other restaurants such as Dos Salsas and Julios, both great local Tex-Mex restaurants.
Hidden Gems and Local Hangouts
Georgetown has some amazing hidden gems and local favorites that might not fit neatly into the “Authentic” or “Tex-Mex” categories, but are definitely worth checking out. These are the places that locals love, the spots that offer something a little different, and the restaurants where you can truly experience the heart of the Georgetown community.
Taco Loco
This is a food truck that parks at the local farmer’s market every weekend. Taco Loco serves up some of the best street tacos in Georgetown, with a variety of fillings to choose from, including carne asada, al pastor, and carnitas. The tacos are served on warm corn tortillas and topped with cilantro, onions, and salsa. What makes Taco Loco a hidden gem is their commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Everything is made from scratch and the flavors are incredible.
With the location changing every week, they can be found online. It is very affordable, at $, and the service is quick and friendly.
La Casita Cafe
This is a small cafe that specializes in Mexican pastries and coffee. The cafe is decorated with colorful artwork and has a cozy, inviting atmosphere. La Casita Cafe is known for its delicious pastries, including conchas, empanadas, and churros. They also serve a variety of Mexican coffees and teas. What makes La Casita Cafe a local favorite is their friendly service and their commitment to using traditional recipes.
La Casita Cafe is located near a local park and can be found online. They are cheap, $, and known for their amazing pastries.
Salsa Central
This offers a salsa bar with over a dozen different varieties, ranging from mild to extra spicy. The restaurant is known for its fresh, flavorful salsa and its commitment to using local ingredients.
They are located close to the town square and the prices are $$$.
Bringing Mexico Home: Where to Find Mexican Ingredients in Georgetown
For those of you who love to cook authentic or Tex-Mex food at home, Georgetown has some great options for sourcing Mexican ingredients. Whether you’re looking for specialty chilies, authentic cheeses, or freshly made tortillas, you’ll find everything you need to create your own culinary masterpieces.
HEB
The large chain grocery store, has a well-stocked international aisle with a variety of Mexican ingredients, including dried chilies, canned goods, spices, and cheeses. You can find everything you need for both authentic and Tex-Mex cooking. It is conveniently located throughout Georgetown.
La Michoacana Meat Market
A local market specializing in Mexican meats, cheeses, and produce. You’ll find everything from fresh chorizo and carne asada to authentic Mexican cheeses like queso Oaxaca and queso fresco. La Michoacana Meat Market is also a great place to find hard-to-find ingredients like dried hibiscus flowers and epazote.
Conclusion: A Georgetown Fiesta of Flavors
Georgetown’s Mexican food scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, traditions, and culinary innovation. From the authentic family recipes at Abuela’s Cocina to the modern Tex-Mex creations at Rio Grande Grill, there’s something for every palate and every budget. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a casual diner, I encourage you to explore the Mexican restaurants Georgetown has to offer and discover your own personal favorites. Grab your appetite, gather your friends, and embark on a delicious adventure through the heart of Georgetown’s Mexican cuisine! And don’t forget to share your discoveries in the comments below – we’d love to hear about your favorite spots and must-try dishes. ¡Buen provecho!
