5 new Mexican restaurants in Toronto you need to try at least once

Mexican restaurants in Toronto serve tasty treats best enjoyed in the summer: be they tacos, tortas, or tres leches.

There's no shortage of tried-and-true staples where you can whet your appetite, but just when you think you've exhausted all of the essentials, a whole new class appears to top up your list.

This summer, the city has seen no small number of must-visit Mexican restaurants open their doors, letting the aromas of carne asada and salsa verde flood the streets.

Lucky for you, I've been keeping tabs on all the new kids on the block so that you don't have to. Here are 5 new Mexican restaurants that you need to try at least once.

Mita Mita

Patry vibes abound at this multicoloured, Mexican-inspired wonderland on the Harbourfront. Neon signs, punchy murals, and a menu replete with tacos and tequila all aim to pay homage to Mexican nightlife. At the very least, they make for an easy go-to for people looking to get the party started in the area.

La Condesa

If authenticity is what you seek, look no further than this itty-bitty Stockyards restaurant with scarcely a word of English on its Instagram page. Allow me to translate: here, you'll find the varied flavours of Mexico City, channelled onto fresh corn tortillas. Don't worry, gringos are welcome.

Santa Madre

Helmed by Luis Valenzuela of Holi Taco fame, this Leslieville ode to Mexican fondas has made quite the splash in its first months. With a counter-service-only approach, vibrant hand-painted murals and some seriously mouthwatering tacos, you need look no further than Gerrard East for your next Mexican fix.

Torta ahogada at Santa Madre. Photo by Fareen Karim.

Wilbur Taco Co.

Another new restaurant with a well-established taco pedigree, this new Liberty Village taco joint comes from the team behind King West's Wilbur Mexicana. Eschewing the industrial vibes of the original in favour of a sun-bleached retro aesthetic, this spot is equal parts picture-perfect and palate-pleasing.

Tacomania

You'll need both hands free when you attack the tacos at this Church-Wellesley restaurant. All manner of tacos can be found on the menu here, from quesabirria to beef tongue, on top of other favourites like fajitas still sizzling in their cast-iron coffin and nachos dressed to the nines.