The 6 Best Tacos and Mexican Restaurants in Salem, MA

Introduction to Salem's Vibrant Mexican Food Scene

Salem, the City of Witches, offers much more than history. This coastal city north of Boston has evolved into a culinary destination featuring a rich and diverse dining landscape that caters to every foodie's desires. While visitors flock to see historic sites like the Salem Witch Museum, Witch Dungeon Museum, and Peabody Essex Museum, locals know the real magic happens in Salem's vibrant restaurant scene.

The search for authentic Mexican food in Salem has become easier than ever, with new taquerias opening alongside established favorites. Whether you're craving street tacos, massive burritos, or innovative Mexican fusion, Salem delivers genuine local recommendations that go far beyond tourist traps. Let's explore the best tacos and Mexican restaurants Salem has to offer.

1. El Poblano Taqueria: The New Downtown Contender

This recent addition to Lafayette Street is generating immense local praise for its authentic flavors, late hours, and must-try burritos and al pastor dishes. El Poblano Taqueria opened in the location where Spitfire used to be, and locals are calling it a huge win for authentic Mexican food in downtown Salem.

Authenticity and Quality

El Poblano is described as "super solid" and offering "authentic tasting" food that Salem has been craving. The restaurant focuses on traditional preparation methods and genuine flavors that transport diners straight to Mexico.

Must-Try Dishes

The standout item is the pollo tinga burrito, which one local called the best burrito they'd had in 10 years on the North Shore—high praise indeed. The Al Pastor has also earned rave reviews for its perfect seasoning and tender meat. For the adventurous, the intriguing birria ramen offers a creative fusion twist. Don't miss the Chile Verde or the classic rice and bean burrito option.

Local Benefits

El Poblano has become a "major game changer" for downtown Salem by staying open until 10–11 pm—much later than most options in the area. Combined with reasonable prices and consistently high quality, it's quickly become a local favorite for late-night cravings.

2. Howling Wolf Taqueria: The Longstanding Downtown Go-To

A popular, funky eatery known for large burritos, scratch-made tortillas, and full-service dining in Salem's North End, Howling Wolf Taqueria has established itself as a staple of the Salem Mexican food scene.

Menu Favorites

Howling Wolf serves delicious Mexican food in Salem with specialties that keep customers coming back. The Carne Asada Fries are a local favorite, along with the unique Wing Fiesta Quesadilla and Pollo Con Chorizo. They're famous for huge burritos like the signature Howling Wolf burrito and scratch-made chimichangas that are worth the indulgence.

Atmosphere and Experience

This funky Mexican restaurant is located on Central Street in Salem's North End, offering high-top and bar seating with full service. Enjoy your meal with indoor or outdoor seating options. The margaritas are consistently praised as some of the best in Salem.

What to Know

While the food and drinks are excellent, Howling Wolf's popularity means it can be "overrun by drunk college kids" on weekends and is sometimes "almost impossible to get in" during peak hours. Visit during off-peak times for the best experience.

3. Tepeyac Cocina Mexicana: Hand-Crafted Authentic Meals

A Salem-based kitchen focused on fresh, handmade cuisine, Tepeyac Cocina Mexicana is noted particularly for its excellent birria and chorizo tacos.

Quality and Dedication

The food at Tepeyac is "hand made and with care" using the "freshest ingredients." The owners take immense pride in what they serve, making it one of the best sit-down and take-out Mexican options on the North Shore. Every dish reflects their commitment to authenticity and quality.

Must-Try Dishes

The highly recommended birria tacos are a standout—tender, flavorful, and served with rich consommé for dipping. The chorizo tacos pack bold, spicy flavor, while the quesadilla burrito offers the best of both worlds. Don't miss the Tepeyac Trio featuring steak, shrimp, and chicken for a complete tasting experience.

Value and Location

Tepeyac offers a wonderful meal at a great price. Find them at 262 Highland Avenue, Salem—slightly outside the immediate downtown core but absolutely worth the visit.

4. Barrio Tacos: Customized Tacos and Margarita Flights

This trendy spot on Lafayette Street specializes in fully customizable tacos and bowls, making it perfect for groups seeking variety and unique drinks.

Build Your Perfect Meal

At Barrio Tacos, customers can create their own bowls or check off boxes on a long list for customized tacos with endless options—like building your own "kitchen sink taco." They offer excellent vegan options, including a great rice bowl loaded with veggies and tofu that satisfies even the most dedicated plant-based eaters.

Drinks and Atmosphere

Known as a tequila and whiskey bar, Barrio offers excellent margaritas and popular margarita flights that let you sample multiple flavors. The trendy, modern atmosphere features fun vibes and decor that make it perfect for a night out with friends.

5. Beyond Salem: Must-Try Tacos on the North Shore

For those willing to venture just outside Salem, nearby Beverly hosts a few highly-rated, authentic taquerias worth the short trip.

La Victoria Taqueria (Beverly)

Consistently recommended as one of the closest options to "authentic" Mexican food on the North Shore, especially by Bay Area transplants who know their tacos. This "no-nonsense taqueria" is known for great burritos and tortas that are large enough for two meals. Note that it's always popular and often busy—order ahead when possible.

El Jalisco Mexican Grill (Beverly)

Cited as having "pretty legit tacos," El Jalisco is particularly known for other plates like their perfectly seasoned guacamole that's worth the trip alone.

Mexa (Beverly)

Mentioned as a favorite for authentic tacos by a California transplant, Mexa also offers birria ramen for those seeking creative Mexican fusion dishes.

Local Insight: Salem locals often make the short trip to Beverly for Mexican food, indicating the exceptionally high quality these spots deliver.

6. Other Mexican Flavors and Foodie Spots in Salem

Salem's food landscape offers several other options for Mexican flavors, from upscale rooftop dining to local spots offering diverse menus.

The Roof

Offering modern Mexican cuisine including tacos and rice bowls alongside craft cocktails, all from Salem's only open-air rooftop bar with expansive views of the city and harbor. Perfect for a special occasion or sunset dining.

Ugly Mug Diner

Though primarily known for brunch, this spot offers Mexican-inspired items like the Chipotle Hash Benedict that brings south-of-the-border flavors to your morning meal.

Mercy Tavern & Dire Wolf Tavern

This lively gastropub offers global comfort food, and their menu includes tacos. The Dire Wolf Tavern shares the same menu concept and also features taco options.

A Note on History: Spitfire Taco

Spitfire Taco (105 Lafayette St) was the former resident of El Poblano's location. Known for unique, elevated tacos featuring ingredients like Wagyu with pineapple pickled onion, and brie and date combinations, Spitfire received mixed local reviews before closing.

Tacos and Transportation: Getting Around Salem

Since traffic can be heavy, especially during tourist season, visitors should utilize Salem's excellent public transit system to easily access downtown dining spots.

Traffic and Parking Considerations

Traffic can be particularly challenging on weekends and during tourist season (especially October), and downtown has limited parking. Plan accordingly to avoid frustration.

Public Transit Solutions

Salem offers convenient transportation options including the MBTA Commuter Rail and Bus system, the scenic Salem Ferry, or the affordable rideshare minibus service, Salem Skipper. The city is highly walkable and bikeable, making it easy to explore multiple restaurants and attractions like Salem Willows, Forest River Park, and Winter Island Park in a single visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find the most authentic Mexican food downtown Salem?

El Poblano Taqueria is receiving excellent local feedback for being authentic and serving traditional Mexican flavors. Tepeyac Cocina Mexicana is also noted for authentic, handmade food prepared with care and fresh ingredients.

Which Salem restaurant has the best burritos?

El Poblano Taqueria's pollo tinga burrito is praised as one of the best burritos on the North Shore. Howling Wolf also offers massive signature burritos that are local favorites.

Are there good dining options beyond the downtown witch tourist areas?

Absolutely! Venues like Tepeyac Cocina Mexicana (262 Highland Avenue) are slightly outside the immediate downtown core but offer exceptional quality. Salem is known as a foodie paradise well beyond the witch trial tourist attractions, with excellent dining throughout the city.

Savoring the Flavors of Witch City

Whether you crave authentic street tacos, elevated fusion burritos, or innovative Mexican cuisine with a view, Salem offers a rich selection of Mexican food that contributes to its reputation as a New England foodie paradise. From the new downtown favorite El Poblano to the established Howling Wolf, the handcrafted excellence of Tepeyac, and the customizable fun of Barrio Tacos, Salem's Mexican food scene delivers quality and variety.

Don't limit yourself to just one spot—Salem's compact, walkable downtown makes it easy to explore multiple restaurants during your visit. Each establishment brings its own unique flavor and atmosphere to the table, ensuring that every taco lover finds their perfect match in Witch City.

Visit these spots, support local businesses, and discover why Salem has become a destination for authentic Mexican cuisine on the North Shore. Your next favorite taco is waiting!