Mexican Restaurants in Charleston
Discover the best mexican dining experiences Charleston has to offer
The Swell
The Swell is a casual Charleston-based catering and raw bar outfit run by Chef Jeff that shows up for events with oysters, a full raw bar, mini lobster rolls, juicy beef sliders and tacos. Locals hire them for weddings and summer parties — they come well-prepared and keep things relaxed and straightforward.
Daddy's Breakfast + Espresso
Daddy's Breakfast + Espresso is a casual spot in Charleston that feels like a neighborhood grab-and-go place with catering and delivery options. People rave about the chicken and the East Coast Daddy breakfast burrito — and they also bring cakes to jobsites, so it’s an easy choice for a quick, homey meal.
Tacos La Familia
Tacos La Familia is a casual, no-frills spot that locals swing by for authentic Mexican street tacos — pork is the go-to, and people rave about how true-to-style they are. It’s small and unpretentious, great for a quick, cheap meal if you’re craving real tacos.
Palomar Fish Tacos
Palomar Fish Tacos is a cozy, casual spot on Dorchester Rd where the fish tacos and hot chips really hit the spot. Locals rave about the authentic Mexican flavors and friendly vibe — it’s a straightforward neighborhood place, not fussy or upscale.
Gallina Loca
Gallina Loca is a casual spot in Fairfield’s village known for solid tacos and beef dishes — locals rave about the street corn too. It's relaxed, reasonably priced, and the kind of place you go back to weekly if you like reliable, no-frills Mexican food.
Harvest Market
Harvest Market is a cozy, casual spot on James Island — part grocery, part food shop with a coffee bar where folks rave about the pistachio cold brew, pastries, weekend breakfast burritos, and chef-prepared refrigerated or frozen dinners. They also have a nice wine selection and plenty of grab-and-go snacks for quick meals at home.
Maya Del Sol Kitchen
Maya Del Sol Kitchen is a casual spot in Charleston serving things like soup, chicken, pork and even cake, with some unique events like a five-course Moroccan dinner. Prices are reasonable — lunch/brunch runs about $10–$20 — and locals say it’s a different dining experience for the price.
El Rinconcito Latino
El Rinconcito Latino is a casual, mostly Spanish-speaking food truck spot where people rave about tacos (pastor can be a bit dry) and serve fries, steak and chicken. Staff are very friendly and it's an easy, down-to-earth place for a quick, tasty meal.
Cachita’s Kitchen
Cachita’s Kitchen is a casual, no-frills Mexican spot locals love for tacos — people rave about the carnitas and the veggie options from their truck at Willie’s Roadside Market. I’ve seen folks find it by accident and keep coming back, so expect solid, down-to-earth food rather than fancy dining.
Mi Lindo Oaxaca Taqueria 2
Mi Lindo Oaxaca Taqueria 2 is a casual, no-frills spot known for street-style tacos — people rave about the chorizo, steak, and chicken tacos served with cilantro, lime, and a few house salsas. Prices are reasonable (tacos around $3), and reviewers say the portions and service are friendly and honest.
La Minerva Cocina & Tequila
La Minerva Cocina & Tequila is a casual spot with great tacos and mole — folks rave about the tacos and the mole dishes. Locals say it’s some of the best Mexican food around, relaxed vibe and solid tequila selection.
MI LINDO OAXACA TAQUERIA
Mi Lindo Oaxaca Taqueria is a casual, no-frills food truck setup in a parking lot with a few picnic tables where you can grab tacos — customers rave about the chicken, pork, shrimp, and steak. Locals call it the best Mexican food in Mt Pleasant for its authentic flavors, fair prices, and quick, friendly service.
Speedy's Taco Truck
Speedy's Taco Truck is a casual, no-frills taco truck serving crunchy, well-made tacos that locals rave about. Reviews call it phenomenal and affordable — one person even said they finished their tacos before they drove off.
The Press
The Press is a casual, no-frills spot known for big burritos — folks rave about the steak burrito and how close it comes to a California burrito. They also do solid fries and wraps; great for a quick, cheap meal or takeout.
Rebel Taqueria
Rebel Taqueria is a casual, buzzy spot where people rave about the queso burger, tacos, chicken and fries — plus snacks like Yoda balls with whipped queso and guac. The drinks are fun (watermelon Tajín margarita tastes like a Watermelon Jolly Rancher) and the vibe is laid-back bar/restaurant energy.
1670 Room Event Space (formerly Gingerline)
1670 Room Event Space (formerly Gingerline) is an upscale, trendy spot that works as an event venue but people also stop in for a casual brunch or late lunch. Folks mention tacos, chicken and salads — it's relaxed enough for a weekend walk-in but still feels dressier than your usual grab-and-go.
Café Roca
Café Roca is a cozy, casual spot in Charleston that feels like a neighborhood coffee shop where people actually hang out. Expect solid coffee (their dirty chai latte gets talked about), plus sandwiches, tacos, fries and cake if you need a bite.
La Taqueria Express
La Taqueria Express is a casual, no-frills spot in North Charleston known for simple, tasty tacos — especially the steak street tacos — and solid options like beef, chicken, and pork. Portions aren't huge but people keep coming back for the flavor and quick service.
LoLA
LoLA is a casual Charleston spot locals go for shrimp, fish tacos, fried green tomatoes and even gator bites — the service is always friendly. Expect solid American seafood plates and a good slice of cake or pie for dessert, nothing pretentious.
Zimos Falafel, Gyro & Taco Food truck .
Zimos is a casual food truck in Charleston serving solid gyros, falafel, shrimp and chicken wraps plus fries and salads — the kind of neighborhood spot people get excited about. Folks rave that the flavors are authentic (one reviewer even called themselves a national critic) and they pop up around town on Fridays.
Rico's Taco Cafe
Rico's Taco Café is a casual, no-frills spot in North Charleston where locals pile in for tacos like Steak Asada, Chicken, and Pork al pastor — everything's simple and flavorful. The staff are friendly and welcoming, so go ahead and get out of your comfort zone with a few different tacos.
BON BANH MI Southeast Asian Kitchen
BON BANH MI Southeast Asian Kitchen is a casual, cute spot in Charleston that locals rave about — people mention the pork, beef, shrimp and those tasty tacos. It’s a laid-back place for quick, solid Southeast Asian eats with a friendly vibe and great location.
Dashi
Dashi is a casual, slightly hippy spot serving Asian-Mexican fusion where people rave about the beef salad and flavor-packed chicken wings. The vibe is fun and relaxed, they do cocktails and to-go orders, so it’s great for a laid-back meal with friends.
Gaucho Grill Food Truck
Gaucho Grill is a casual food truck in Charleston that does solid steak tacos and those cheesy melted combos people rave about. It's low-key, great for lunch, and folks keep coming back for the flavor and friendly service.
Chico Feo
Chico Feo is a casual spot locals love for cheap tacos, pork dishes, sesame noodle specials and cold drinks — it’s relaxed, has bar seating and often live music. People rave that it’s consistently good and worth the trip if you want easy, no-fuss street tacos.
Blanca Estrada Taqueria
Blanca Estrada Taqueria is a casual, tucked-away spot where people rave about the tacos — steak, chicken, and shrimp are the big hitters. It's low-key, has strong AC, and feels like a real neighborhood taqueria rather than a fancy restaurant.
Biscuit Bros
Biscuit Bros is a casual spot known for huge biscuits, burritos, and wrapped sandwiches — think fast, hearty breakfast and chicken options. Locals and visitors love the quick service and generous portions (we're glad a Missouri visitor found it, too).
Chido Taco
Chido Taco is a casual, no-frills spot — often a food truck — serving solid tacos, asada burritos, steak, street corn and tortas. Locals rave about the authentic flavors and friendly owners; go when you want quick, good Mexican without pretension.
El Pollo Guapo
El Pollo Guapo is a casual spot in Charleston where you can grab tacos, fries, a salad, wings or even a sub without fuss. Locals say it's great for a quick meal or to hang out and take your time — solid food, laid-back vibe.
Daps Breakfast & Imbibe
Daps Breakfast & Imbibe is a casual, laid-back spot open about 8 AM–2 PM where locals come for creative, off-the-beaten-path breakfast fare. People rave about the breakfast burrito and they even do burgers if you want something less traditional for morning eats.
Not Just Franks Cafe
Not Just Franks Cafe is a casual, no-frills spot where the chicken, pork, crispy bacon and eggs actually show up done right — people rave about the breakfast burrito and the fries. It's small and friendly (owner Aaron chats with customers), perfect for a laid-back breakfast or sandwich run.
Poseidon Playground LLC
Poseidon Playground is a casual spot in Charleston that does tacos, wings, steak and shrimp — people rave about the birria tacos with consomé and the street corn. I’ve seen happy delivery reports too, so it’s a laid-back place to grab tacos or a steak-and-shrimp plate without fuss.
Gorditas Locas
Gorditas Locas is a casual food truck/catering outfit in Charleston known for tacos, chicken dishes and great quesadillas — we actually found them at a neighborhood festival when my kid wanted a quesadilla. They also cater events (bachelorette parties, magazine launches) and people rave about how professional and reliable the crew is.
The Pub On 61
The Pub On 61 is a casual, down-to-earth bar & grill in West Ashley with a big patio, pool tables, cornhole, darts, karaoke and live music. People rave about the friendly bartenders and simple eats like chicken, sandwiches and loaded quesadillas.
MESU
MESU is a casual, slightly upscale spot doing a Mexican-sushi mashup — think fish-forward rolls, tacos, and pork dishes with a fun, buzzy vibe. Prices lean toward the higher side, but folks rave about the rolls and the friendly service so it's worth trying if you like inventive fusion.
Carmen y Juan
Carmen y Juan is a casual, no-frills Mexican spot in Charleston known for fresh tacos, soups (they can be nicely soupy), chicken and steak plates. Locals rave it tastes authentic—people who lived in Southern California say it hits the mark.
Catrina's Tacos & Tequila
Catrina's Tacos & Tequila is a casual, colorful spot in Charleston where tacos and margaritas are the main draw — people mention the tacos and tequila night vibes. It’s got a real Mexican feel with fun decor and a relaxed, date-night or hangout kind of energy.
Folly Beach Community Center
Folly Beach Community Center is a casual, well-organized spot that hosts festivals and meetings — people rave about the bands, fried seafood and festival tacos at events. It’s a community hub where families hang out and locals attend meetings, not a sit-down restaurant.
Tacos El Pariente
Tacos El Pariente is a casual, no-frills taco spot with friendly staff and mostly outdoor picnic-style seating. Folks rave about their chicken and steak tacos — simple, authentic Mexican food at a bargain price.
Los Reyes Mexican Restaurant
Los Reyes is a casual, budget-friendly Mexican spot in Charleston where people go for shrimp, steak plates, salads and the old-school buffet vibe. Service is friendly (Juaquin gets shout-outs) and there's a nice outdoor seating area if you want to eat outside.
California Tortilla
Casual, fast-casual spot for burritos, tacos and bowls — people rave about the California Screaming burrito (they can swap chicken for beef steak), the Sunset chicken melt, shrimp tacos, and mixed meat bowls. Friendly staff, solid portions, good for a quick, inexpensive meal.
Cantina 76
Cantina 76 is a casual spot in Charleston known for solid tacos and chips & salsa — people also rave about the food for events like wedding welcome parties. The staff (shoutout to Bekah and manager Chris) is friendly and hands-on, so it’s a relaxed, neighborhood place rather than formal dining.
Rio Chico Mexican Restaurant - West Ashley
Rio Chico in West Ashley is a casual, no-frills Mexican spot known for solid margaritas and big fajitas. People rave about the enchiladas verdes and quick, friendly service — good for a laid-back, affordable meal.
Grumpy Goat Seafood Cantina
Grumpy Goat Seafood Cantina is a casual, no-frills spot in Charleston known for tacos — people even order one of everything — plus shrimp, fish and chicken plates. It’s friendly, busy, and feels like a neighborhood place with solid seafood and good mixed drinks.
Rita's Seaside Grille
Rita’s Seaside Grille is a casual, lively spot on Folly right by the pier where folks go for shrimp, tuna, tacos and a solid burger. No reservations, family-friendly vibe — great for a simple Friday night or a holiday drop-in.
Mex 1 Coastal Cantina
Mex 1 Coastal Cantina is a casual, quiet spot on Sullivan’s Island where locals go for tacos, nachos, salads and beef dishes without any fuss. If you want island-style Tex‑Mex and seafood in a laid-back setting, it’s a reliable, low-key go-to.
The Drop-In Bar & Deli
The Drop-In Bar & Deli is a cozy, casual spot where locals grab coffee, a club sandwich or tacos and sometimes stay for a beer. Expect diner-style comfort — solid chicken and salad options too — nothing fancy, just good, laid-back food.
San Miguel Mexican grill & bar
San Miguel Mexican Grill & Bar is a casual spot in Charleston where people go for tacos and a hearty steak without any fuss. Service gets good marks for being friendly and attentive, and most folks say it’s an easy, solid change of pace.
Rio Chico
Rio Chico is a casual James Island spot serving solid Mexican fare — people rave about the chicken and even the cake for celebrations. Service is attentive and it’s a good-luck choice for group lunches or low-key birthday nights.
The Daily Cafe - King St
The Daily Cafe on King St is a casual, cozy spot locals hit for solid coffee, 3-egg burritos and big breakfast sandwiches. Staff are friendly (people name-check Mark a lot) and it’s the kind of place you’ll go back to for brunch more than once.
Tiki Taco
Tiki Taco is a casual, no-frills spot on Rivers Ave known for solid tacos and straightforward Mexican fare. Locals swear by the consistency—good food, affordable prices, and exactly the kind of place you’d stop at after a long day.
Casa Fiesta
Casa Fiesta is a casual Mexican spot that locals love for simple plates like beef tacos and big nachos, and the dining room inside is colorful and thoughtful even if the exterior is plain. Staff are friendly, but expect standard cold red salsa and chips that can be a bit stale.
Rancho Lewis
Rancho Lewis is a casual, hearty Mexican spot locals pop into for tacos, steak, chicken and their melt-style sandwiches — great for lunch or a group. It’s unpretentious, busy, and dependable if you want solid, filling food without fuss.
El PinchoTaco
El PinchoTaco is a cozy, casual spot in Charleston where people rave about the tacos and steak (they even throw pizza on the menu). Service gets a lot of praise and the place is small and authentic, though expect good — not fancy — food and a relaxed patio vibe.
Señor Tequila
Señor Tequila is a casual, lively spot for straightforward Mexican food and drinks — people rave about the chicken and basic favorites like tacos and enchiladas. Expect good service, reasonable prices, and a noisy, bar-and-grill vibe rather than fine dining.
Papi's Taqueria featuring Cachitas Kitchen
Papi’s Taqueria featuring Cachitas Kitchen is a casual, no-frills spot on IOP where folks rave about the tacos, fish dishes, nachos and the Cachita’s food-trailer roots. It’s solid, affordable Mexican-ish food — the kind of place you go for casual eats, not fine dining.
The DIME
The DIME is a casual spot that’s part coffee shop, part sandwich shop — people rave about the bagel sandwich, burrito, subs and their pizza. Great for grabbing an iced latte before a walk or stopping in for a laid-back breakfast, lunch, or pizza dinner.
Santi’s Restaurante Mexicano
Santi’s Restaurante Mexicano is a casual, family-friendly spot on Meeting Street with a laid-back vibe and a shady, tree-filled patio that feels great on a sunny day. Their tacos, nachos and shrimp dishes are solid crowd-pleasers — people I know go for the outdoor atmosphere as much as the food.
TIERRA AL MAR
Tierra Al Mar is a casual, cozy spot for tacos, big nachos, shrimp plates and strong house margaritas—happy hour here gets rave reviews and the portions are generous. It’s small inside with lots of outdoor seating, friendly staff, and approachable Mexican-style food (don’t miss the quesadilla or desserts).
Matador Charleston
Casual spot in downtown Charleston with bold Tex‑Mex vibes — think tacos and a solid chicken dish people rave about. Bright, nicely decorated place where you go for fun, flavorful food rather than fancy dining.
Mi Ranchito Restaurant
Mi Ranchito is an upscale-feeling Mexican spot with colorful murals and a warm, casual vibe — people rave about their steak and authentic flavors. Locals say the service is friendly and it’s worth a stop even if the location looks tucked away.
Six Mile Eats
Six Mile Eats is a casual, solid little sandwich shop with only about 10 tables — great for lunch or quick dinner. Customers rave about the pear Gorgonzola and chicken fajita salads, wraps, pasta, and simple sandwiches, and people do takeout often.
Bonefish Grill
Bonefish Grill is a casual spot on King Street for seafood — people rave about the shrimp, tuna, fish cakes and even the tacos. Service can be hit-or-miss (ask about happy hour), but the food is fresh and good for a relaxed night out or birthday dinner.
La Venecia Food Truck
La Venecia is a casual Mexican food truck where folks grab tacos, carne asada burritos, lengua and carnitas — the tacos are crispy, filling, and cheap rather than fancy. It’s a no-frills spot popular with locals if you want a solid, casual taco fix.
Taco Boy Charleston
Taco Boy Charleston is a casual, quiet spot that looks unassuming from the outside but locals keep going back for tacos, fish and beef or a steak wrap. It’s not fancy — just a reliable, neighborhood bar/restaurant where regulars hang out.
bartaco
bartaco is a casual, cozy spot in Charleston where people go for tacos — fish, beef, and chicken — plus salads and good drinks. The vibe’s friendly (bartender Andres gets rave reviews), service is solid, and it’s the kind of place you might happily visit twice in one day.
Mainland Container Co. Kitchen & Bar
Mainland Container Co. Kitchen & Bar is a casual, lively spot with a cute container-themed bar where people rave about the chicken, wings, tacos, soup and cake. Lots of guests say the food surprised them in a good way—it's a down-to-earth neighborhood place, popular with families and visitors.
Loggerhead's Beach Grill
Loggerhead's is a casual, beachy bar-and-grill on Folly with a rooftop terrace where locals grab beers, sandwiches, fries, tacos or steak. The fresh catch-of-the-day often has a fun twist—good for a laid-back meal after the beach, not fine dining.
Condado Tacos
Condado Tacos is a casual, buzzy spot for build-your-own tacos and drinks — people rave about the Blue Dream tacos and the street corn guacamole. Service gets called out a lot (Maddie and Hannah get shout-outs), and it’s a solid spot for lunch or takeout rather than a fancy night out.
Rio Chico Mexican Restaurant
Rio Chico is a casual, no-frills Mexican spot in Charleston where folks rave about tacos, steak, chicken, fries and their margaritas. Service can be friendly (our server Leo got shoutouts) and it's family-friendly — good for a laid-back Sunday lunch.
Ru Ru's Tacos & Tequila
Ru Ru's Tacos & Tequila is a casual spot in historic downtown Charleston known for its tacos and solid drinks, with a relaxed bar vibe. Service can be hit-or-miss depending on the shift (we showed up at a weird 3pm handoff), but the food and cocktails are worth a try.
Mezcal
Mezcal is a casual Mexican spot in Charleston with easy parking and solid weekday lunch vibes. Locals rave about the chicken fajitas, fish and tacos, and say the food, service and atmosphere are all good.
Triangle Char & Bar
Triangle Char & Bar is a cozy, casual spot in Charleston where people go for burgers, chicken sandwiches, tacos, salads and a beer. It's dog-friendly (they even have a puppy menu) and a solid place to grab a bite and a drink.
Rise and Shine Breakfast Place
Rise and Shine Breakfast Place is a casual, busy spot in Charleston known for big breakfast plates — people mention the chicken and say the sausage could use more flavor. Service gets shout-outs (Maggie is popular), prices are moderate and the vibe is friendly and unpretentious.
Minero Mexican Grill & Cantina
Minero Mexican Grill & Cantina on James Island is a casual spot locals and visitors praise for tacos and shrimp dishes (and yes, they do good cakes for dessert). It’s a down-to-earth, friendly place—solid, authentic Mexican food without the fuss.
Señor Tequila's
Señor Tequila's is a casual, kinda no-frills Mexican spot and bar that locals keep coming back to for cheap beers and simple seafood plates — think shrimp and fish tacos or a salad with shrimp. It’s not trying to be authentic Mexican fine dining, just reliable, tasty, and affordable.
Agaves Cantina
Agaves Cantina is a casual Mexican spot with friendly staff, good vibes, and solid shrimp dishes that folks rave about. Reviews say the flavors are great and meals are tasty, so it's a reliable, down-to-earth place for a relaxed night out.
Azul Mexicano
Azul Mexicano is a casual, popular spot in Charleston known for tacos, chicken dishes, cactus and big bowls of soup — people also rave about their melted cheese and spicy salsas. It’s not fancy but the prices are fair and reviewers say the food is tasty enough they’ll be back.
Restaurante La Costa
Laid-back, casual spot in Charleston serving honest Mexican food with a surprising mix of seafood — people rave about the shrimp, seafood plates, and even the pizza and fries. It's a really small place with low-key energy but friendly staff and solid service.
Azul Mexicano James Island
Azul Mexicano on James Island is a casual, family-friendly spot where people rave about the tacos, chicken, shrimp and beef options (and plenty of veggie choices too). Service can be great — Valentina got our picky kids fed — and it’s the kind of reliable, neighborhood Mexican spot fans of the chain keep coming back to.
Villa Cantina
Villa Cantina is a casual Latino spot and bar in Charleston where locals rave about things like steak, shrimp, club sandwiches and fries. Reviews say the service is warm and welcoming — people call it one of the best Latino restaurant experiences in town, though it’s laid-back, not fancy.
LA RIVERA
La Rivera is a casual, no-frills spot serving solid Mexican seafood — think shrimp, fish and the popular Agua Chile Verde. It's a local favorite (mostly Spanish-speaking crowd) with fresh-tasting soups and friendly, down-to-earth service.
Sabor Latino Restaurant
Sabor Latino is a casual, no-frills Mexican spot in Charleston that locals and travelers stop at for tacos and hearty beef dishes. Folks also rave about the hibiscus and fermented pineapple juices, and reviewers say the food is genuinely really good.
The Mill Street Tavern
The Mill Street Tavern is a casual, neighborhood spot in Charleston serving American and seafood fare — expect fish, shrimp, seafood tacos and decent salads. Service can be hit-or-miss (one reviewer mentioned a seating mix-up), but reviewers often say their first visit went well.
Viva Tacos & Tequila
Viva Tacos & Tequila is a casual, nicely decorated spot where people go for tacos, shrimp and beef plates — great if you need dinner before a Credit One show. The food has bold flavors, indoor/outdoor seating is pretty, and service tends to be friendly and quick.
Azul Mexicano Downtown
Azul Mexicano Downtown is a casual, modern Mexican spot in Charleston where people rave about the tacos, seafood plates, chicken dishes and big nachos. Reviews say the vibe is lively and the food travels well (we DoorDash'd it and it showed up hot), so it's a solid choice when you want straightforward, flavorful Mexican.
Two Wrights
Two Wrights is a casual spot inside the DoubleTree that locals and travelers hit for straightforward American fare like quesadillas with grilled buttered tortillas, chicken, burgers, wraps and fries. Reviews are mixed (about 4.2/5) — some love it as a first stop after landing, others find parts of it a bit subpar.
Taco Boy Folly Beach
Taco Boy on Folly is a casual, lively spot where locals and visitors stop for tacos, shrimp and chicken dishes (and strong margaritas) after a day at the beach. It’s not fancy—just good, reliably tasty Mexican food and a fun bar atmosphere people keep coming back to.
El Jefe Texican Cantina
El Jefe Texican Cantina is a lively, casual spot on King Street where folks go for tacos, shrimp plates and easy drinks. It’s a busy, family-friendly place — good for a no-fuss meal if you’re exploring the area.
Guadalajara Bar & Grill
Guadalajara Bar & Grill is a casual, quiet spot in Charleston where people rave about the chicken and shrimp dishes and quick service. It’s a neighborhood Mexican bar and grill with friendly staff (Victor gets a lot of praise) and affordable prices.
Juanita Greenberg's Nacho Royale
Juanita Greenberg's Nacho Royale is a casual, no-frills spot on King St where locals and tourists grab big plates of nachos, melted cheese, tacos and chicken — great for a quick lunch or a bite after a Charleston Battery game. Expect loud, friendly service and reasonable prices; it's more bar/comfort-food than fine dining.
Agaves Cantina Hwy 41
Agaves Cantina in Mt. Pleasant is a casual, fast-paced Mexican spot where the nachos and quick service get plenty of praise. It’s not fancy — food is solid and fast (some say not the best in town), but great when you want a reliable, casual meal.
Las Lupitas Mexican Restaurant
Las Lupitas is a casual, no-frills spot locals go for tacos, tortas and tamales — and the drinks get good reviews too. Expect authentic, home-style Mexican food in a hole-in-the-wall setting with solid prices and a friendly vibe.
Tacos los Primos LLC
Tacos los Primos is a casual, no-frills Mexican spot in Charleston known for tacos and their popular birria with a rich consommé. Locals rave about the authentic, made-to-order flavors and friendly service—expect down-to-earth food you’ll want to come back for.
The Kickin' Chicken
The Kickin' Chicken is a casual bar-and-grill where locals and visitors go for wings, chicken sandwiches, tacos, shrimp and pork plates. I went for a late lunch — great Diner Burger and veggie quesadilla options too — and it’s relaxed, noisy, and worth a stop if you want simple, solid food.
Fuel Charleston
Fuel Charleston is a casual, eclectic spot in a converted gas station with Caribbean vibes where people rave about the nachos (add the jerk chicken), tacos, sandwiches, salads and fries. It’s low-key, neighborhood-friendly and exactly the kind of place you go when you want good, unfussy food.
Pier 101 Restaurant & Bar
Pier 101 on Folly is a casual, waterfront spot where folks go for bang bang shrimp, salmon bowls, fish tacos and a good bowl of soup. The atmosphere is relaxed and lively — great for a laid-back dinner or drinks by the pier.
Poblanos Mexican Restaurant
Poblanos is a cozy, casual spot in Charleston where locals stop in for tacos, chicken dishes, and a surprising side of fries with your meal. People say it’s laid-back and easy to pop into when you want straightforward Mexican food and a drink at the bar.
Agaves Cantina West Ashley
Casual, family-friendly spot in West Ashley with roomy indoor/outdoor seating — people rave about the enchiladas and tacos, though some say parts of it can be a bit subpar. Friendly staff and decent Mexican atmosphere, good for groups and family dinners.
New Realm Brewing Co.
New Realm Brewing is a laid-back, casual brewery with a huge open space where you won't feel crammed in — think burgers, shrimp dishes, tacos, nachos and fried chicken washed down with house beers. It's a pub/restaurant vibe (they host events too), so go for relaxed food and drinks rather than fine dining.
The Flying Biscuit Cafe
The Flying Biscuit Cafe is a casual spot in West Ashley known for big brunch plates, tacos and cake for dessert — locals say the food is really good. Service gets shout-outs (Brittany was mentioned) and it’s the kind of laid-back American/vegetarian-friendly place you’d go for a hearty morning or lunch.
Taqueria La Jarocha
Taqueria La Jarocha is a casual food-truck spot behind Little Caesars on Remount Road serving tacos with beef, pork and chicken. Locals rave about the tacos and the friendly guy who runs it — simple, no-frills, and very Texan-friendly.
Manhattan's Food and Spirits
Manhattan's Food and Spirits is a casual bar-and-grill where folks come for tacos, pork chops, fried chicken and fries, plus Friday karaoke and pool nights. Service can be spotty (some reviewers report cold food or long waits), but it's a relaxed place to grab drinks with friends.
Kees Kitchen
Kee's Kitchen is a casual spot locals hit for hearty plates like pork, beef, tacos, brats and that blue cheese slaw. You’ll find them at events around town ( Low Tide, Westbrook Brewery tents ) and it’s the kind of no-frills place with filling food.
Santi’s Mount Pleasant
Santi’s in Mount Pleasant is a casual, no-frills Mexican spot where folks rave about the shrimp-stuffed avocado, big margaritas, tacos, pork and chicken plates. Expect generous portions, simple chips and salsa, and a laid-back bar vibe—good for drinks or a relaxed meal.
Northwoods Mall
Northwoods Mall is a casual, laid-back shopping spot in North Charleston with food stalls where people mention things like burgers, tacos, and pizza alongside clothing and a big BoxLunch. It’s not fancy—just a convenient place to grab a bite and browse.
La Hacienda Mexican Restaurant
La Hacienda is a casual, no-frills Mexican spot in Charleston — quick service (Gabriella gets shoutouts) and dishes like chicken and even pizza/melts show up on the menu. Food gets mixed reviews — generally fast and fresh, but some people found the enchiladas under-cheesed and a bit meh.
Santi’s West Ashley
Santi’s West Ashley is a casual, no-frills Mexican spot with nice outdoor seating where locals go for tacos and menudo. The menudo comes with all the trimmings and reviews say the food is good, if you’re not expecting fine dining.
Ritual Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge
Ritual Rooftop is a casual spot that’s part bar/part nightclub with a rooftop vibe where people also come for meals — think shrimp, fish, tuna and tacos plus sandwiches. It’s lively and friendly (folks rave about the staff and drinks), so go if you want a fun rooftop night out that also serves solid food.
Sunsets Waterfont Dining- Downstairs
Sunsets Waterfront Dining — Downstairs is a casual, no-fuss spot where folks go for tacos, a burger, steak, fish and fries and to watch the sunset from the deck. Reviews are mixed (4.0 from 439), so come for the view and relaxed vibe, not fine dining.
Pink Cactus Charleston
Pink Cactus Charleston is a casual, lively spot where folks go for tacos, beef plates, and cocktails — we actually booked it for a bachelorette lunch. It’s fun and upbeat, though reviews are mixed, so expect a party vibe more than a quiet dinner.
Tacos & Tequila
Tacos & Tequila is a casual, no-frills spot (they even run a food truck and serve poolside at Sea Grass Inn) that gets praise for fresh chili shrimp and tacos. It’s laid-back lunch or snack fare — chips and dip are solid, and people seem to like the Mexican-style offerings.
Belle Station Sports Bar & Grill
Belle Station is a casual sports bar and grill with a neighborhood vibe — good for families or a night out with friends, with friendly staff and solid happy hour deals. Expect straightforward eats like tacos, wings, burgers, steak and fries, plus pizza and nightly specials.
Cócteles el Primo #2
Cócteles el Primo #2 is a casual, tucked-away Mexican spot locals go for shrimp dishes, shrimp cocktails and even menudo you don't see everywhere. Portions are fair for the price and service is friendly, though the location can be a little hard to find.
Taco Bell
Taco Bell in Charleston is a casual, fast-food spot where people grab tacos, burritos and the chicken items — great for a cheap, quick meal. Expect standard chain food and friendly chaos when someone walks in with a big order.
Taco’n Madre Food Truck
Taco’n Madre is a casual food truck spot in Charleston where locals line up for tacos — folks rave about the Trompo tacos in particular. It’s low-key, run by friendly guys, and definitely the kind of grab-and-go place you hit when you want solid Mexican street tacos.
Taco Bell / KFC
This is a casual, no-frills spot where people grab tacos, beef wraps, fried chicken and the occasional pie when they want cheap fast food. Reviews are mixed (2.9/1295) — expect standard chain fare, quick service, and not fine dining.
Chipotle Mexican Grill
It's a casual, fast-casual spot for burritos and bowls where people order steak, chicken, or pork and expect quick service. Reviews are mixed (2.4), so think grab-and-go chain food rather than an upscale, sit-down meal.