5 Best Mexican Restaurants in Las Vegas

My mom recently moved away from Las Vegas after living there for 10 years. I sure miss the frequent visits there, and all the great food! But we go back when we can for a great meal and the city's ambiance. Was just there in April. Here is my take on the Mexican food. All 5 places are well-established favorites.

Prices: $ = inexpensive; $$ = medium by Las Vegas standards, $$$ = expensive

Carnival World Buffet -Rio Hotel
This may not be a free-standing Mexican Restaurant, but the Mexican food section of Rio's Carnival World Buffet is still the best Mexican food in town.
Consistently ranks #1 among Las Vegas Hotel Buffets.
The refried beans are so creamy and thick, and the taco meat so flavorful - they're to die for. I have paid the price for the entire Buffet (the largest in Las Vegas) only to dine on this portion of it!!
Atmosphere & Price: Casual - $$, modern design
(When you get to Las Vegas, pick up the What's Happening type magazines. There is always a $5.00 coupon for the Rio Carnival World Buffet, good for $5 off for everyone in your party).
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Saturday & Sunday Champagne Brunch.
Lines can be long. No reservations except large parties.
Phone: 702-777-7777

Isla Mexican Kitchen and Tequila Bar -Treasure Island Hotel
Best Mexican Restaurant in Las Vegas by the Las Vegas Life Magazine from 2004 - 2006.
Yummy modern Mexican food with American style. Unusual guacamole recipes, and impressive selection of tequilas, including their own brand.
Atmosphere & Price: Upscale setting, $$
Serves Dinner only, but bar open from 1 pm.
Reservations suggested for all-size parties.
Phone: 866-286-3809

Ricardo's of Las Vegas - 4930 W Flamingo Rd.
"The Best of CitySearch" Mexican food in 2007, "Best Mexican Restaurant" by the Las Vegas Review Journal Reader's Poll 20 times since 1983.
Open since 1979. Family-owned makes it rare in Las Vegas.
Great Mexican food plus well-known dishes from the Southwestern states. Great, friendly staff.
Atmosphere & Price: Casual,$, authentic-looking Mexican décor.
Lunch and Dinner.
Reserve for large groups only.
Phone: 702-227-9100

Cozymel's Mexican Grill - 355 Hughes Center Dr.
A "locals" haunt a few blocks from the strip.
Mexican food with specialties in nice treatment of pork and fresh seafood. Unique island drinks.
You enter a building that looks like a Mexican hacienda.
Atmosphere & Price: Casual, $$, great Mexican décor inside, too.
Lunch and Dinner.
Reserve large groups only.
Phone: 702-732-4833

Diego at MGM Grand
Authentic, delicious dishes from Mexico.
Atmosphere and Price: Very Upscale, $$$, sleek and modern, not "Mexican" in décor.
Specialty variety of salsas and guacamole.
Dinner only.
Reservations recommended.
Phone: 702-891-3200, Groups over 14 call 702-891-7433.