8 Great Mexican Restaurants in Indianapolis, Indiana

I love Mexican food. I mean, what's not to love? But finding the BEST is hard - there are so many in Indy, and they're so good! Here is my list of the tastiest and most authentic Mexican restaurants in town. (NOTE: Sorry, Don Pablo's is not on the list. It's yum-tastic, but a big chain, and not terribly authentic)

Cancun Mexican Restaurant, 6714 E 82^nd St, Indianapolis, Indiana; (317) 578-7054

I love this restaurant! Of the Cancun restaurants I've visited in the area, the northside Castleton location is my favorite. Don't go for the service - it's blasé at best. This is probably due to the fact that it appears to be run by a close-knit Mexican family, and the servers often speak very little English. But it's a catch 22 - the authenticity of the proprietors comes out in the authenticity of the food. The portions are large, the margaritas are strong and well made, and the food is amazing. I especially love their queso blanco sauce. Be sure to give this place a try. Prices are moderate for a Mexican restaurant - between $10 - $15 for an entrée.

Puerto Vallarta, 5510 Lafayette Rd, Indianapolis, Indiana; (317) 280-0676

This is definitely one of the best Mexican restaurants in town! Located on the west side of Indianapolis, Puerto Vallarta is a local gem. The food is always delicious, the prices are always reasonable, and the service is always fast and friendly. I've never had a bad experience here. And if you feel daring, their fish tacos are supposed to be the best in town.

El Sol De Tala, 2444 East Washington St, Indianapolis, Indiana; (317) 636-1250

This restaurant is located close to downtown on East Washington Street, and is known for it's authentic cuisine and menu items that you may not see at other Mexican restaurants. Indianapolis' growing Mexican community eats here, which is one of the best ways to find authentic Mexican cuisine. Some of the different options on this child-friendly restaurants menu are chicken mole, carne con chili y papas, Mexican-style chicken soup and a delicious chocolate flan. If you're looking for westernized Mexican, then you'll want to look elsewhere!

Acapulco Joe's Mexican Foods, 365 N Illinois St, Indianapolis, Indiana; (317) 637-5160

Located in downtown Indy, this restaurant is a beloved local favorite. Acapulco Joe's has been in Indy for more than 35 years. The food is authentic, and the atmosphere is great. The serving portions are large. While there, be sure to try the chili con queso! The prices are a little higher than some Mexican places - be prepared to pay $15-$20 for a meal. If you're downtown, be sure to give it a try!

La Hacienda, 3874 Lafayette Rd, Indianapolis, Indiana; (317) 290-0755

This westside restaurant serves delicious Mexican food at reasonable prices. They use a lot of cilantro and just the right amount of spice in their dishes. The fajitas, fajita quesadillas and burritos are all tasty, and they mix their margaritas right! Prices are very reasonable.

La Jolla, 921 Broad Ripple Ave, Indianapolis, Indiana; (317) 253-5252

The trendy location and great atmosphere of this northside hangout are enough to lure anyone in. Unfortunately, the management seems to think that a great location makes up for decent food and watered-down margaritas. If you go, go with friends and go for the atmosphere (and possibly the chips and salsa). Although the food is good and served in large portions, don't expect anything stellar in terms of service. I only include this one so that diners who want the best Mexican food can avoid this restaurant altogether.

El Azabache, 4200 S East St, Ste 11, Indianapolis, Indiana; (317) 791-1533

This southside Mexican kitchen serves up delicious food at very reasonable prices. Many patrons continue to go because the food is so good, even though the service isn't. If you can deal with the lack of quality service, then you'll enjoy the authentic cuisine, including great fajitas and well-mixed margaritas. If people continue to go in spite of the service, then you know it must be good!

La Piedad, 6524 Cornell Ave, Indianapolis, Indiana; (317) 475-0988

This is one of the best Mexican restaurants in town in terms of taste, price and service! While many local Mexican restaurants have great food, great prices or great service, La Piedad has all three. Authentic Mexican dishes are freshly made in this family-owned establishment by an all-Mexican staff. Be sure to try the mouth-watering chile rojo when you visit, and expect a great experience!