Authentic Mexican food is one of the best things about Mexico. Unfortunately, although many places claim to be a Mexican restaurant, not all are genuinely authentic.
It would help if you were looking out for a few things when trying to tell whether or not a place is real. So keep reading to learn more about what you should look for in an authentic Mexican restaurant!
Tacos
One of the most popular restaurants in the city, Benitos, serves the most real Mexican food you can have. Their menu offers a variety of tacos, burritos, and quesadillas that will leave you wanting more.
The best part about this place is their authentic guacamole, made tableside right before you. This is an absolute must-try!
Tacos are a staple in Mexican cuisine, and they come in many different fillings depending on the region. For example, fish tacos are a common choice in Baja, California.
This Cobble Hill restaurant specializes in standard Mexican fare with a nod to Mexico City and a tip to southern state cuisines. Standouts include pozole and huaraches, along with birria, a soupy stew served in a bowl.
This two-decade-old taqueria, run by Rufino Zapata, has long been a beacon for Pueblan tacos and cemitas (round sandwiches on seeded rolls). Order the al pastor and the fabled hot dog torta.
Salsa
The salsa offered at Benito’s isn’t just about heat. It is also a delicious base for various dishes, including tacos and enchiladas.
The restaurant’s menu is a mashup of classic Mexican cuisine and the modern cuisine of a native son, Omar Montero. The result is a fusion of flavors that makes this place worth a visit seven days a week.
Aside from the apparent fajitas, the most notable dish here is taquitos de huitlacoche, a corn fungus and cheese fondue with serrano peppers that is popular in Mexico City but a little under the radar outside of Mexico. It’s topped with avocado salsa, beans, and corn tortillas.
Aside from the salsa, Benito’s entices with many other exciting offerings, including a “Make Salsa, Not War” sign and “Make a Mole Not a Chili.” The menu is a mashup of traditional dishes with gourmet touches like fried leeks and cilantro-drizzled strawberries. The best thing about the Mexican restaurant is its burgeoning family-friendly vibe.
Cheese
Cheese is a staple ingredient in Mexican cooking. It complements dishes like antojitos, empanadas, and vegetables. It also adds savoriness to the flavor of the word.
Queso Chihuahua is a rich, buttery-flavored cheese that melts quickly and easily. It is perfect as a filling for chile rellenos or a topping for tamales.
This cheese is made from pasteurized cow’s milk and is pale yellow. It is semi-firm and has a mild flavor similar to Monterey Jack’s.
It is used as a melting cheese in Mexican quesadillas and enchiladas. It is also ideal for sprinkling on tacos and casseroles.
In addition to shredded cheddar and Jack cheeses, Benitos also offers a selection of mixed cheeses and cilantro cream sauces. These options include tortillas, guacamole, sour cream, rice, or fresh pico de gallo.
Margaritas
Margaritas are a classic, refreshing cocktail that’s perfect with a meal of Mexican cuisine. The best Margaritas use high-quality tequila, fresh lime juice, and Cointreau (good quality Triple Sec works, too), says Chris Isle, author of The Craft of the Cocktail.
Using good quality tequila for your Margaritas is essential because a cheaper tequila can taste harsh and overpower your drink. Also, it’s a good idea to use coarse salt instead of table salt to keep your margaritas from getting too salty.
It’s also a good idea to avoid cutting your fresh limes into wedges for garnishing because it can throw off the citric balance of your drink. Instead, try a decorative lime wheel or a slice of orange for a more attractive look. Or, if you’re feeling particularly creative, dip the rim of your glass in black lime or hatch chili salt. This will add depth to your drink. Finally, add a little grenadine or passion fruit syrup for an extra kick.