(Image: Vibrant close-up shot of tacos al pastor being prepared or a colorful plate of enchiladas)
Hartford, Connecticut, a city steeped in history and known for its cultural landmarks, is also quietly building a reputation as a destination for diverse and delicious cuisine. While its New England roots run deep, Hartford’s culinary landscape is increasingly spiced up by a thriving Mexican food scene. From traditional family-run restaurants serving generations-old recipes to innovative fusion spots pushing the boundaries of flavor, the capital city offers a fiesta for your taste buds. This guide will take you on a flavorful journey to discover the best Mexican food that Hartford has to offer, ensuring your next craving for authentic tacos, savory enchiladas, or zesty margaritas is fully satisfied. Get ready to explore the hidden gems and established favorites that make Hartford a surprisingly vibrant hub for Mexican cuisine.
The Classic Contenders: Restaurants with Established Reputations
Some restaurants stand the test of time, becoming synonymous with quality and authenticity. These are the places that Hartford residents have come to rely on for consistent flavor and a satisfying Mexican food experience. They are the cornerstones of the Hartford Mexican food scene, and deserve a special spotlight.
Agave Grill
Located on Allyn Street, Agave Grill has been a Hartford favorite for years, renowned for its upscale take on Mexican classics and its impressive tequila selection. The restaurant boasts a modern, stylish ambiance, making it perfect for a date night or a special occasion. But it’s not just the atmosphere that draws crowds; it’s the food. Their signature dish, the Chile Relleno, is a must-try. This roasted poblano pepper is stuffed with cheese, lightly battered, and served with a flavorful tomato sauce. The combination of textures and flavors is simply divine. Also on the menu are various high-quality meats, all perfectly paired with fresh salsas and sides. The prices are mid-range, making Agave Grill a good choice for a treat-yourself meal. But expect lines on weekend nights; this place is popular for good reason. The staff is generally very attentive, although it can get hectic when they are at peak occupancy. If you’re looking for an elevated Mexican dining experience, Agave Grill is a must-visit.
Monte Alban Restaurant
This family-owned gem on Park Street offers a more traditional and comforting Mexican experience. Monte Alban is known for its generous portions, friendly service, and authentic flavors. It’s the kind of place where you feel like you’re being welcomed into someone’s home. Their Enchiladas Verdes are a standout. These corn tortillas are filled with shredded chicken, smothered in a tangy green tomatillo sauce, and topped with melted cheese. The dish is served with rice and beans, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. Monte Alban has been around for many years, making it a pillar of the Hartford community. Prices are very reasonable, making it a favorite among students and budget-conscious diners. The restaurant has a simple, no-frills décor, but the focus is always on the food and the warm atmosphere. This is a great place to get a true taste of authentic Mexican cuisine in a casual and relaxed setting. Their menu is vast, and there is a wide array of choices available for everyone, even the pickiest of eaters.
La Casa Del Borinquen
While technically Puerto Rican, La Casa Del Borinquen has some dishes and flavors that crossover with Mexican cuisine, and has been a community pillar in the Hartford area for decades. Situated on Wethersfield Avenue, it is known for its traditional Puerto Rican meals that will take you on a tour of the area. There are also some delicious, Mexican inspired meals here, making it a great place to stop.
Hidden Gems and Up-and-Coming Spots
Beyond the well-established restaurants, Hartford also boasts a collection of lesser-known spots that offer equally delicious, and sometimes even more unique, Mexican food experiences. These are the places where locals go to discover new flavors and enjoy a more intimate and authentic meal.
El Pollo Guapo
This is a small chain that offers some delicious Mexican inspired chicken. It isn’t traditional Mexican food by any means, but it will definitely scratch that itch. They offer a wide variety of meals with chicken as the core ingredient. The restaurant is a small chain, and has won awards locally for their amazing chicken.
Tacos La Rosa
Tucked away on a side street, Tacos La Rosa is a small, unassuming taqueria that serves some of the most authentic and flavorful tacos in Hartford. The menu is simple, focusing on classic taco fillings like carne asada, carnitas, and al pastor. But what sets Tacos La Rosa apart is the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the cooks. The tortillas are made fresh daily, and the meats are marinated and cooked to perfection. The Tacos Al Pastor, marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, are a must-try. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the tender meat, is simply irresistible. Tacos La Rosa is a no-frills operation, with limited seating, but the food is worth the trip. Prices are incredibly affordable, making it a great option for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner. Many consider these to be some of the most authentic, and best tacos in the city of Hartford.
La Fonda Restaurant
Another Hartford favorite, La Fonda offers a wide array of Mexican dishes that are sure to satisfy. Known for its excellent service and high-quality food, this place is often packed with people in the evenings. It is highly recommended that you call ahead and make a reservation, as you may be waiting outside for a while.
Beyond the Restaurant: Mexican Groceries and Takeout
Sometimes, you want to experience the flavors of Mexico in the comfort of your own home. Fortunately, Hartford has several excellent Mexican grocery stores and takeout options that allow you to do just that.
Hartford Supermarket
Hartford Supermarket offers a wide array of products and ingredients that can be used to create many meals. The supermarket has many Hispanic options that are generally hard to find in other common locations. The prices are more affordable than the average chain grocery store, and the workers are very friendly.
La Bonita Grocery
For a truly authentic Mexican shopping experience, head to La Bonita Grocery. This bustling store is packed with imported products, fresh produce, and a wide variety of spices and dried peppers. The aroma alone is enough to transport you to Mexico. La Bonita is particularly known for its selection of Mexican cheeses, including Oaxaca cheese, queso fresco, and cotija cheese. They also have a fantastic selection of dried chiles, which are essential for making authentic Mexican sauces and stews. If you’re feeling adventurous, try one of their homemade tamales or empanadas. This is the perfect place to stock up on ingredients for your next Mexican cooking adventure. Prices are very reasonable, and the staff is always happy to help you find what you’re looking for. The store is centrally located, making it easy to access, and there’s always ample parking.
Pollos El Paisa
Pollos El Paisa has some of the best takeout Mexican in the city. Some of their more popular meals include enchiladas, carnitas, and mole poblano. They also have some delicious chicken that is roasted daily. This is some of the best Mexican food in the city.
Something Different: Fusion or Modern Takes on Mexican Cuisine
For those looking for a more modern and innovative approach to Mexican cuisine, Hartford has a few options that are worth exploring. These restaurants are pushing the boundaries of flavor and presentation, creating unique and exciting dining experiences.
Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ (Mexican Inspired Items)
While primarily a barbecue joint, Bear’s Smokehouse offers several Mexican-inspired dishes that are packed with flavor. Their smoked meats, combined with traditional Mexican ingredients, create a unique and delicious fusion.
Plan B Burger Bar (Sometimes)
While not strictly a Mexican restaurant, Plan B often has a “Burger of the Month” that sometimes features Mexican-inspired flavors and ingredients. This could include toppings like chorizo, queso fresco, guacamole, or chipotle mayo. Keep an eye on their menu to see what creative concoctions they are serving.
Must-Try Dishes & Hartford Mexican Food Experiences
No culinary exploration of Hartford’s Mexican food scene is complete without trying some of these essential dishes:
Best Tacos Al Pastor
Tacos La Rosa for their authentic and flavorful marinated pork.
Best Mole Poblano
Agave Grill or La Fonda Restaurant, for their rich and complex chocolate-based sauce.
Best Margarita
Agave Grill, for their impressive tequila selection and perfectly balanced cocktails.
Best Horchata
Any of the smaller Taquerias will likely have delicious, home-made Horchata.
Best Vegetarian Option
Several of the restaurants offer veggie tacos, veggie burritos, and chile rellenos.
Conclusion
Hartford’s Mexican food scene is a vibrant and diverse tapestry of flavors, offering something for everyone. From the classic and comforting dishes of family-run restaurants to the innovative and exciting creations of modern fusion spots, the capital city is a surprisingly rewarding destination for Mexican food lovers. So, grab your appetite and embark on your own culinary adventure. Explore the hidden gems, revisit the established favorites, and discover the authentic tastes of Mexico right here in Hartford. Don’t be afraid to try new things and ask for recommendations. And most importantly, be sure to share your own favorite Mexican restaurants and dishes in the comments below. Happy eating!
