Looking for the best Mexican eats but feeling a bit overwhelmed with the options? Look no further because we have found the best Mexican restaurants in Wilmington!
If you’re looking for a quick bite, Flaming Amy’s slogan is "hot, fast, cheap and easy." With its punk vibe and grunge charm, this family-owned Mexican restaurant not only serves a variety of Mexican dishes, but they’re best known for their specialty burritos. Try any of the 19-plus delicacies on the extensive menu or build your own.
There are almost 20 options to choose from, but you can also build your bowl burrito. Owners Jax and Amy Muxworthy also pride themselves on giving back to some their favorite charitable organizations such as Nourish NC, Adopt an Angel, and many of their local schools and family organizations. So when you eat at Flaming Amy’s, you’re giving back to the community. Be sure to also check out their second location in Carolina Beach and their sister restaurant, Flaming Amy's Bowl, also in Wilmington.
Located in the Historic District near the Cape Fear River, this family-owned Mexican restaurant in Wilmington offers a funky atmosphere and decor. Beer sommelier Hayley Jensen and her husband, Chef Stephen Durley, have brought their talents from New York City to prepare current, delicious dishes with vegan-friendly options. Not only does this craft beer-infused modern Mexican restaurant serves over 30 beers on draft, but they also whip up some of the finest margaritas, sangrias, and other specialty drinks. The daily beer specials pair fantastically with either tacos or an other entree, and they also provide complimentary chips and salsa to every table. Make sure to stop in and check out their brunch every Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Related content: Best Margaritas in Wilmington
K-38 Oleander, Tower 7 & Cafe Del Mar
Whether you’re checking out the Oleander Drive or Market Street location, you’re in luck because the specials are the same at this local mini-chain. Mondays are $3 on wannabe margaritas and Baja fish tacos, Tuesdays are half-price fajitas and $1 PBR, Wednesdays are $2 hard shell tacos with your choice of pulled chicken, ground beef or black bean, and Thursdays are half-price Miller Lite draft and select quesadillas with cheese, chicken, or veggies. Note that the specials start at 5 p.m. each weekday and are for dine-in customers only. K-38 uses chiles and spices from all over the Southwest and Mexico, so not only are you getting a bang for your buck but enjoying true Mexican cuisine as well.
This Tex Mex joint advertises that "every night is a fiesta," meaning there are food and drink specials every day of the week. They are best known for their daily specials, so get ready: Monday is Fajita Night with $11 fajita entrees and half-price margaritas while Taco Tuesday also offers half-price margaritas, North Carolina craft beer for $4, and $10 taco combos. Grab a friend and enjoy a $30 paella ensemble for two and $2 Miller Lites pints on Wednesday or take pleasure in $3 Mexican pints and $9 ceviche on Thursday. Don’t forget to pop in on the weekend to take part in $5 sangria and $14 shrimp and grits on Friday or $7 margaritas and pan-seared jumbo scallops for $18 on Saturday. Last but not least, end your week with half-priced bottles of wine, $2 Miller Lite pints, and $9 quesadillas. The possibilities are endless! In a hurry? Si! Señor Modern Mex offers an express lunch Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for $10. Enjoy this amazing Mexican restaurant in Wilmington during a busy work day or when you’re on the go!
Easily the most traditional option on the list, Los Portales offers a multitude of authentic Mexican staples. Start with their ample salsa bar that has 12-plus toppings available. You choose any or all toppings for your meat. Speaking of meat, the taqueria offers 13-plus diverse types of meat to choose from. Once you’ve narrowed that down, pick your final ‘kick’ from the salsa bar. Choices include habanero, chipotle, arbol, tomatillo, avocado sauce, and more! Don’t forget to ask for extra cheese, guacamole, sour cream, and tomatoes to njoy a variety of flavors with your creation!
Whether you’re in the mood for tacos or tequila, casual or fine dining, one of Wilmington's best Mexican restaurants has just what you’re looking for.
For more restaurants in Wilmington, be sure to check out 910area, your free guide to everything in the Wilmington and Fayetteville area.
Cover photo courtesy of PxHere
