The days when Mexican food in Amsterdam was synonymous with reheated Tex-Mex burritos are definitely over. In recent years, the city’s Mexican culinary scene has exploded into one of the most exciting in the country. From down-to-earth taquerías in Noord with handmade tortillas to sophisticated fine dining on the Spui and creative plant-based dishes in the Jordaan: today, the city offers truly authentic flavors.
Are you looking for a quick birria taco at the bar, an evening of fine dining, or the city’s best cocktails? We’ve rounded up the 10 best Mexican restaurants in Amsterdam for you.
Bacalar
For sophisticated tacos in a raw, industrial setting, cross the IJ to Bacalar in Amsterdam Noord. Here, the chef combines his French culinary background with flavors discovered during an inspiring road trip through Mexico. Expect slow-cooked meat, rich sauces, and artisanal tortillas in an atmospheric warehouse. Reservations are a must here!
- Recommended dish: Tacos de Lengua (veal tongue with tomatillo salsa and salsa macha)
Oaxaca
For sophisticated Mexican fine dining, take a seat at Oaxaca, right near the Spui. Chef Joan Bagur cooks here according to centuries-old traditions, using ingredients that come fresh daily from their own Mexican garden ( milpa). Expect a stylish evening full of authentic flavors, and be sure to finish off your meal at their unique mezcal bar.
- Recommended dish: Traditional mole with fresh ingredients from the milpa (paired with a mezcal)
MADRE
In the Jordaan, you’ll find MADRE, a bustling hotspot where modern Mexican food is prepared entirely from scratch. The atmosphere here revolves around great food and a top-notch cocktail bar specializing in mezcal. Whether you stop by for their extensive weekend brunch or grab a seat at the bar in the evening, the creative dishes are guaranteed to leave you wanting more.
- Recommended dish: The Chef’s Choice menu (a diverse tasting menu showcasing their modern take on Mexican cuisine)
TACO LINDO
For a quick, no-fuss bite, join the line at TACO LINDO Click to open side panel for more information at the Albert Cuyp Market. It’s no surprise this popular street food concept went viral: here, you’ll experience the authentic, laid-back taco stand vibe just like in Mexico. Expect amazing (halal) tacos with perfectly cooked meat to enjoy right there on the spot.
- Recommended dish: Beef Birria Combo (tacos with beef slow-cooked for eight hours, melted cheese, and lime)
Coba Taqueria
In Amsterdam-Noord, Coba Taqueria is the absolute cult favorite for anyone seeking bold, authentic Mexican flavors. At this bustling hotspot, it’s all about craftsmanship: from the homemade salsas on organic corn tortillas to the impressive selection of agave spirits. Be sure to stop by their Mezcaleria Tula Cantina right next door before or after dinner.
- Recommended dish: Tacos de Barbacoa (slow-cooked lamb with adobo, salsa borracha, and a rich consommé)
La Brutal Taquería
Right in the middle of the bustling Albert Cuypstraat , you’ll find La Brutal, a no-nonsense taquería all about authentic street food. Here, you can savor traditional Mexican classics featuring slow-cooked meat on soft tortillas. It’s the perfect spot in De Pijp for a quick, casual taco fix right among the market stalls.
- Recommended dish: Birria Tacos (slow-cooked beef served with a rich consommé for dipping)
MasMais
What started as a park BBQ among friends has grown into one of the coolest next-gen taquerías in Amsterdam-West. At MasMais, it’s all about craftsmanship: they import their own corn from Mexico to press fresh tortillas daily using traditional nixtamal techniques.
- Recommended dish: Birria de Res (beef slow-cooked for twelve hours in a spicy broth, served with rice and Oaxaca-style beans)
Rosario Cocina Mexicana
In the Jordaan , Rosario serves a modern Mexican menu that’s all about shared dining. Here, you’ll share creative, contemporary dishes served on organic corn tortillas from Amsterdam’s Tortillería Taiyari. The atmosphere is intimate, the menu changes regularly, and they always keep tables available for spontaneous walk-ins.
- Recommended dish: Cochinita Pibil Tacos (slow-cooked pork from Yucatán with pickled red onion and spicy habanero salsa)
Cabrón
At Cabrón , authentic Mexican street food blends seamlessly with the city’s raw nightlife. At this hotspot in De Pijp, you can enjoy delicious tacos and, once a month, let loose during the Radio Cabrón underground techno nights. A unique spot where raw energy, great food, and partying come together flawlessly.
- Recommended dish: Create Your Own Taco (served with 4 warm corn tortillas, pickles, spicy sauces, and lime)
Lupe
Founder Juan (known for Los Pilones) brought Lupe, a fresh Mexican hotspot, to Bos en Lommer in Amsterdam-West. Here, it’s all about modern shared dining: leisurely sampling colorful Mexican classics together, without any stress about choosing. Be sure to pair the atmospheric dining experience with their creative cocktails at the bar.
- Recommended dish: Hibiscus Margarita (paired with a selection of Mexican shared-dining dishes)
