11 Ohio Mexican Restaurants You Should Definitely Visit This February
February in Ohio means cold weather and a serious craving for something that warms you from the inside out. Mexican food has this magical way of turning a dreary winter day into something special, with flavors that remind you summer exists somewhere.
From Cleveland to Cincinnati, Toledo to Dayton, the Buckeye State serves up authentic tacos, creative tortas, and dishes that’ll make you forget about the snow piling up outside. This February, skip the same old dining routine and explore these incredible spots that bring real Mexican flavors to communities across Ohio.
Whether you want street-style tacos, hearty burritos, or something you’ve never tried before, these restaurants deliver the goods. Get ready to discover your new favorite place to eat this month.
1. Momocho, Cleveland
Tucked into Cleveland’s Ohio City neighborhood at 1835 Fulton Rd, Cleveland, OH 44113, Momocho brings modern Mexican cooking to life in ways that surprise and satisfy.
The menu here goes beyond standard expectations. Chef Eric Williams crafts dishes using local ingredients while honoring traditional Mexican techniques, creating flavors that feel both familiar and exciting.
Their guacamole gets made tableside, which means you watch as fresh avocados transform into something spectacular right before your eyes. The house-made tortillas arrive warm and tender, perfect for scooping up whatever delicious creation you’ve ordered.
The space itself feels welcoming without being too casual, making it work for date nights or family dinners equally well. Bright colors pop against exposed brick, and the energy stays lively without becoming overwhelming.
Their taco selection changes with the seasons, so you’ll find different options depending on what’s fresh and available. The braised short rib tacos have earned serious praise from locals who know good food when they taste it.
This Cleveland spot proves that Mexican cuisine can be both authentic and innovative, respecting tradition while pushing boundaries in all the right ways.
2. La Plaza Supermarket Taqueria, Cleveland
Sometimes the best food hides in unexpected places, and this taqueria inside La Plaza Supermarket at 13609 Lakewood Heights Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44107 proves that point perfectly.
Walk past the grocery aisles stocked with imported Mexican products, and you’ll find a small counter serving some of the most authentic tacos in Cleveland. The setup feels unpretentious and real, like the taquerias you’d stumble upon in Mexican neighborhoods south of the border.
Their carne asada comes seasoned just right, with char marks that add smoky depth to every bite. The tortillas arrive doubled up and loaded with meat, cilantro, onions, and your choice of salsa, keeping things simple but incredibly flavorful.
Prices stay remarkably reasonable, especially considering the generous portions and quality ingredients. You can eat well here without emptying your wallet, which matters when you want to come back again and again.
The staff speaks Spanish primarily, and the menu reflects traditional Mexican offerings rather than Americanized versions. This authenticity creates an experience that feels genuine and connected to real Mexican food culture.
Eating here feels like discovering a secret that locals have been keeping to themselves, making each visit special.
3. Blue Habanero, Cleveland
Bright flavors and creative cooking define Blue Habanero at 6416 Detroit Ave, Cleveland, OH 44102, where traditional Mexican food gets a fresh perspective.
The restaurant takes its name from the habanero pepper, and while they’re not afraid of heat, the menu offers plenty for those who prefer milder flavors too. Balance matters here, with each dish showing careful consideration of how ingredients work together.
Their fish tacos arrive with perfectly seasoned and cooked fish, topped with cabbage slaw and a sauce that ties everything together beautifully. The combination of textures and temperatures makes each bite interesting from start to finish.
Vegetarian options get real attention rather than feeling like afterthoughts. The roasted vegetable dishes showcase produce at its best, proving that Mexican food can satisfy without relying solely on meat.
The interior uses bold colors in ways that feel energizing rather than overwhelming. Blue accents pop against warm earth tones, creating a space that feels both modern and connected to Mexican design traditions.
Portions come sized right, filling without leaving you uncomfortably stuffed. You’ll leave satisfied and already thinking about what you want to try on your next visit to this Cleveland spot.
4. La Super Torta Mexican Restaurant, Columbus
When a restaurant puts tortas right in the name, you know they take these Mexican sandwiches seriously, and La Super Torta at 721 Georgesville Rd, Columbus, OH 43228 absolutely delivers on that promise.
Tortas might not get as much attention as tacos in the United States, but they deserve equal respect. These substantial sandwiches pack layers of flavor between fresh bread that’s been pressed and toasted to crispy perfection.
The milanesa torta stands out as a customer favorite, featuring breaded and fried meat that stays crispy despite all the toppings. Beans, avocado, lettuce, tomato, and jalapeños create a combination that satisfies completely.
Beyond tortas, the full menu offers traditional Mexican plates, tacos, and breakfast options that bring authentic flavors to Columbus. The chilaquiles make an excellent choice when you want something hearty and comforting.
The restaurant atmosphere feels welcoming and family-friendly, with decorations that celebrate Mexican culture in cheerful ways. You can tell this is a place that cares about creating a positive experience for everyone who walks through the door.
Portions come generously sized, often providing enough food for two meals or leaving you happily full. The combination of quality, quantity, and reasonable prices makes this Columbus spot a smart choice this February.
5. Bakersfield Short North, Columbus
The Short North neighborhood in Columbus gets a dose of elevated street food at Bakersfield, located at 733 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215, where tacos meet modern restaurant design.
This spot takes inspiration from Tex-Mex traditions while incorporating fresh ingredients and creative touches. The result feels contemporary without losing connection to the flavors that make Mexican food so appealing.
Their taco selection rotates regularly, featuring both traditional options and more adventurous combinations. The brisket taco brings Texas barbecue influence into Mexican format, creating something that works surprisingly well.
The outdoor patio becomes especially popular during warmer months, though February in Ohio means you’ll probably stick to the indoor dining area. The interior design uses industrial elements mixed with warm touches that create an inviting atmosphere.
The restaurant draws a younger crowd, particularly on weekends when the energy picks up considerably. If you prefer a quieter meal, weeknight visits work better for conversation without competing with background noise.
Side dishes deserve attention too, particularly the street corn that gets topped with cotija cheese, lime, and chili powder. These little additions round out your meal and add variety to the flavor experience.
Bakersfield proves that Mexican-inspired food can work in an upscale casual setting without losing the fun and flavor that makes it special.
6. Mazunte Taqueria, Cincinnati
Cincinnati’s Hyde Park neighborhood welcomes authentic Mexican street food at Mazunte Taqueria, positioned at 5207 Madison Rd Suite 100, Cincinnati, OH 45227, where traditional recipes meet local enthusiasm.
The owners bring genuine knowledge of Mexican cuisine, having spent time learning traditional preparation methods and regional specialties. This background shows in the careful attention to detail that goes into every dish.
Their carnitas come braised until tender, with edges that crisp up beautifully when they hit the flat top. The meat practically melts in your mouth, needing only simple toppings to let the flavor shine through properly.
Tamales appear on the menu as daily specials, made fresh with masa dough that’s light and flavorful. These traditional bundles require hours of preparation, and the effort shows in the final product that arrives at your table.
The restaurant space stays compact and casual, with counter service that keeps things efficient. You order, grab a seat, and wait for your number to be called, creating an experience similar to actual taquerias in Mexico.
Vegetarian and vegan options get thoughtful treatment, using techniques and seasonings that create satisfying dishes rather than just removing meat from existing recipes. Plant-based eaters will find plenty to enjoy here without compromise.
7. Taqueria Mercado Cincinnati, Cincinnati
Downtown Cincinnati gets its taco fix at Taqueria Mercado, situated at 100 E 8th St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, where market-fresh ingredients transform into memorable Mexican dishes.
The mercado concept influences both the menu and the atmosphere, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and preparations that highlight quality produce and proteins. Everything feels vibrant and alive, from the colorful decor to the food itself.
Their shrimp tacos showcase seafood preparation done right, with perfectly cooked shrimp that stays tender and juicy. The accompanying slaw and sauce add brightness and acidity that balance the richness of the seafood beautifully.
The open kitchen design lets you watch as cooks prepare your order, adding an element of theater to the dining experience. Seeing the care and skill that goes into each dish increases appreciation for what arrives at your table.
Located in the heart of downtown, this spot works perfectly for lunch breaks or pre-event dinners when you’re heading to nearby entertainment venues. The location makes it convenient for both locals and visitors exploring Cincinnati.
The menu offers build-your-own options alongside signature creations, giving you flexibility to customize or trust the chef’s combinations. Both approaches work well, depending on your mood and preferences when ordering.
8. Nada, Cincinnati
Sophistication meets Mexican flavors at Nada, located at 600 Walnut St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, where the dining experience elevates familiar dishes into something special.
The restaurant occupies a beautifully designed space in downtown Cincinnati, with high ceilings, stylish lighting, and a layout that works for both intimate dinners and larger group gatherings. The atmosphere feels polished without becoming stuffy or pretentious.
Their guacamole preparation happens tableside, with servers mashing avocados and mixing in your choice of additions right in front of you. This interactive element adds fun to the meal while ensuring maximum freshness.
The taco menu features creative combinations alongside traditional options, giving you chances to try something new or stick with familiar favorites. Presentation receives attention here, with dishes that look as good as they taste.
The restaurant draws a diverse crowd, from business lunches to date nights to family celebrations. The versatile space and menu accommodate different occasions equally well, making it a reliable choice for various dining situations.
While prices run higher than casual taquerias, the quality of ingredients, preparation, and service justify the cost. You’re paying for an elevated experience that delivers on multiple levels.
Nada demonstrates that Mexican cuisine can work in an upscale setting while maintaining the warmth and flavor that makes it so beloved.
9. Bakersfield OTR, Cincinnati
Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine neighborhood hosts another Bakersfield location at 1213 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, bringing the same elevated taco concept to this historic district.
The OTR location takes advantage of the neighborhood’s architectural character, incorporating exposed brick and original building features into a modern restaurant design. The blend of old and new creates visual interest that enhances the dining experience.
Their taco offerings mirror the Short North location but benefit from a kitchen team that adds its own touches and interpretations. Consistency matters, but so does allowing creativity and regional variation to develop naturally.
The neighborhood itself adds to the appeal, with plenty of other restaurants, bars, and entertainment options within walking distance. You can easily make dinner here part of a larger evening out exploring what OTR has to offer.
Weekend evenings bring crowds and energy, transforming the space into a lively social scene. If you’re looking for that kind of atmosphere, timing your visit for Friday or Saturday night delivers exactly that experience.
The menu extends beyond tacos to include appetizers, sides, and larger plates that work well for sharing. Coming with a group lets you sample more items and discover new favorites together.
This Cincinnati location proves the Bakersfield concept translates well to different neighborhoods while adapting to local character and preferences.
10. El Tipico Restaurant, Toledo
Toledo’s Mexican food scene includes El Tipico Restaurant at 1444 South Ave, Toledo, OH 43609, where family recipes and traditional preparations create meals that feel like home cooking.
The restaurant has served the Toledo community for years, building a loyal following through consistent quality and genuine hospitality. Walking in feels comfortable and welcoming, like visiting friends who happen to serve excellent food.
Their enchiladas showcase traditional preparations with rich sauces that coat tender tortillas wrapped around flavorful fillings. The combination plates let you sample multiple items, making them perfect for first-time visitors still figuring out their favorites.
Portions arrive generously sized, with plates that include rice, beans, and often chips and salsa to round out the meal. You definitely won’t leave hungry, and leftovers often provide lunch for the next day.
The staff treats customers like family, remembering regulars and making newcomers feel equally welcome. This kind of genuine service creates an experience that goes beyond just the food, though the food certainly holds up its end of the bargain.
Prices stay very reasonable, making this spot accessible for regular visits rather than just special occasions. When you find a place that delivers quality, quantity, and affordability, you’ve discovered something worth returning to again and again.
11. Taqueria Mixteca Dayton, Dayton
Dayton discovers authentic Mexican regional cooking at Taqueria Mixteca, found at 1609 East 3rd Street, Dayton, OH 45403, where traditional recipes bring specific Mexican regional flavors to Ohio.
The Mixteca region of Mexico provides culinary inspiration here, with dishes that reflect specific traditions and preparation methods from that area. This regional focus creates a menu that stands apart from generic Mexican restaurants.
Their mole sauce demonstrates the complexity and depth that Mexican cooking can achieve, with layers of flavor that develop from numerous ingredients working together. Trying mole here gives you insight into how sophisticated Mexican cuisine truly is.
The restaurant atmosphere stays casual and authentic, without trying to create an Americanized version of Mexican dining. Spanish conversations float through the air, and the menu includes items you might not recognize if your Mexican food experience comes mainly from chain restaurants.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions about unfamiliar dishes. The staff enjoys explaining traditional preparations and helping customers discover new favorites they might not have tried otherwise.
The location in Dayton makes this spot a valuable addition to the local dining scene, offering authenticity and quality that rewards adventurous eaters. February provides the perfect opportunity to expand your Mexican food knowledge beyond the basics.