These Mexican restaurants in Sacramento and the surrounding regions all deliver unique and mouthwatering culinary experiences, representing the diverse cuisine of Mexico.
The list skips taquerÃa, Tex-Mex, and Mexicali cuisine. These are some of the more diverse and culturally significant foods of Mexico.
To make it onto this list, these Mexican restaurants throughout the Sacramento region must offer a combination of traditional Mexican ingredients, modern elements of cooking, and a unique gastronomical experience. If you’re looking for more exceptional Sacramento-area restaurants, check out the post on all the best restaurants Sacramento has to offer.
Mezcalito Oaxacan Cuisine
Mezcalito Oaxacan Cuisine in Rocklin is serving up delicious traditional Oaxacan food, with an attention to detail and dedication to freshness that is unmatched by many restaurants in the area. When you visit, I recommend you order outside your comfort zone because I’ve yet to taste a bad dish here.
Try a dish smothered in their rich mole or a Tlayuda (similar to a tostada) for some authentic Oaxacan flavors. The Avocado Salsa Fresca is one of the most fun guacamole-esque appetizers I’ve had the pleasure of eating, and their overall food presentation is on point. At Mezcalito, you will find consistently high-quality meals at a really reasonable price in a clean and simple setting.
Address: 5065 Pacific St, Rocklin, CA 95677
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Last Visited:
Mayahuel
Mayahuel’s owner hails from Michoacán, which gives a unique twist to many of the dishes here. It is possible to take a fairly comprehensive tour of various Mexican cuisines at this restaurant, from Yucatán to the Acapulco coast. Try their fish tacos, albondigas, or enchiladas verdes, and enjoy it all in a colorful and inviting atmosphere. Mayahuel also offers an extensive list of vegan options.
Address: 1200 K St, Sacramento, CA 95814
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Lalo’s
Lalo’s is one of those unassuming hole-in-the-wall places serving up some flavorful and authentic Mexican food. On their menu, you’ll find traditional Mexican styles and ingredients, such as barbacoa and huitlacoche. Try the Al pastor burrito, tacos, consomé, or chilaquiles plate. I recommend ordering a classic fruity drink with your meal, such as a guanabana.
Address: 5063 24th St, Sacramento, CA 95822
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Midtown’s Cantina Alley
Come to Cantina Alley for the vibrant Midtown-Sac vibes and delicious traditional Mexican food with a twist. They include plenty of fresh papas (potatoes), radishes, and roasted poblanos.
The carne asada quesadilla could be an entrée on its own because it’s stuffed full of so many ingredients. Ample cabbage and radish slices top each piece, which come arranged in a sushi roll-like style line on the plate. If you’re a fan of soup, the pozole verde is tangy, spicy, and will have you eating beyond the point of being full. The use of cachanilla salsa really packs a flavor punch to the already nourishing hominy-based stew. The vegan taco del monte may be one of my favorite items here, with portabello mushrooms sautéed in a balsamic reduction, salsa verde, and nutritional yeast.
Address: 2320 Jazz Alley, Sacramento, CA 95816
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Last Visited: August 2024.
Nixtaco
Nixtaco in Roseville offers a diverse assortment of modern and creative taco options with fresh-made tortillas. Their entire service is automated. The dining room resembles a new-age Mexican cantina. If it’s your first time visiting, try the combination taco or spicy shrimp tacos.
Address: 1805 Cirby Way #12, Roseville, CA 95661
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La Venadita
La Venadita is your go-to spot for great Mexican food in Oak park. They employ unique uses of mushrooms and chilies throughout their dishes. Enjoy their quesabirria tacos with a margarita in their inviting brick-walled setting or outside on their lovely patio. Be sure to treat yourself to some authentic churros for dessert!
Address: 3501 3rd Ave, Sacramento, CA 95817
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La Flor de Michoacán
Quaint spot offering some great authentic Mexican-Salvadoran dishes. Their pupusas are must-try items, along with their tamales with pineapple, fried plantains. Don’t forget to add the curtido to the pupusas, and grab yourself some yucca and chicharrones as a snack!
Address: 2339 Northgate Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95833
Updates:
September 30, 2026: Removed Cantina Pedregal (restaurant closed).
November 9, 2024: Remove Cicada Catina: restaurant closed.
August 15, 2024: Updated photos, styling and wording across the entire article.
August 12, 2024: Added Cantina Pedregal. Updated misc verbiage around article.
