These Mexican restaurants in Traverse City are blurring the border lines and enriching the local food scene with their Latin fare.
Mama Lu’s
149 E. Front St. | 231.943.2793
This modern-day taco shop and bar is serving up Mexican street food in downtown TC. Stationed on bustling Front Street, they’re whipping up made-to-order tortillas, hand-crafted margaritas and some of the most beautifully composed tacos you’ve ever seen. The intimate restaurant, home to a mere 40 seats, also offers side dishes that are bursting with flavor. Think street corn slathered in lime mayo and powdered in cotija cheese and crispy pork rinds dusted in chile-salt and served with pineapple habanero hot sauce. It’s already making your mouth water, right?
Spanglish
1333 Yellow Dr. | 231.943.1453
After tasting their way through 11 Mexican states and much of the U.S., husband and wife duo Vincente and Anna are putting their own twist on Latin classics. Ten years of passion and partnership has evolved into bright and flavorful food that doesn’t let rules get in the way of culinary greatness. Their menu includes all the staples, from quesadillas to tamales. Even more exciting than their food is their dedication to sustainability; ingredients are locally-sourced, food waste is composted, takeout containers are biodegradable and everything else is recycled. You can eat in good conscience, knowing you’re helping the planet just as much as your taste buds.
Taqueria TC Latino Dos
2101 N Three Mile Rd | 231.943.2400
Discover delicately-plated dishes built with fresh ingredients in the little blue taqueria at the corner of 3 Mile and Hammond. If you’re craving an authentic taste of Mexico, and want to get away from the crowds of downtown, this is the place to be. Authenticity is the cornerstone of this family-owned business. Their tradition-infused meals are served by staff who go above and beyond to cultivate an enjoyable experience for every guest who walks through the door. And with dessert options like flan Napolitano and warm churros, you won’t mind hanging around a little longer.
Robby’s Taqueria T.C. Mexicana
830 E Front St | 231.486.6991
From skillets and omelettes to enchiladas and chimichangas, this taqueria is serving up Mexican classics every meal of the day. You’ll find the vibrancy and richness of Mexican culture served with pride. With a commitment to freshness and a dedication to the recipes of Robby’s childhood, every dish is made fresh with local ingredients. Their full bar just happens to be the lime on top; whether you’re in the mood for something minty, fruity or frozen, Robby’s bartenders have a specialty cocktail for you.
Taco House
1707 S Garfield Ave. | 231.947.0672
For those days when you just need a quick pick-me-up, Taco House is mixing fine Mexican cuisine with convenience. Their drive-thru allows you to pick up all your favorites without ever leaving your car, which means you can avoid the awkwardness of getting asked how everything is tasting just as you’ve taken an especially large bite of that burrito. Plus, their daily specials on tostadas, burritos and tacos allow you to indulge in your favorites without breaking the bank. Find them right across the street from Cherryland Mall.