9 Mexican Restaurant Dishes To Skip Plus 5 Flavor-Packed Picks Worth Ordering Instead

Mexican cuisine is bold, vibrant, and full of fresh flavor—but not every menu item lives up to its full potential. Some are overly greasy, bland, or just not worth the calories (or the price). Here’s a guide to help you skip the duds and go straight for the dishes that actually deliver.

1. Chimichangas

Chimichangas might sound like a treat, but often they disappoint. Deep-fried burritos are usually dripping with oil, losing appeal with each bite. Instead of flavorful fillings, you’ll mostly taste the heavy toppings like sour cream and cheese. This dish can quickly become a calorie trap without delivering on taste. Over time, the crispy exterior turns soggy, making it less appetizing. Those looking for authentic Mexican flavors will find chimichangas come up short. Try seeking out fresher, less oily options that offer a true taste of Mexican cuisine.

2. Nachos as a Main Dish

Nachos may start off as a fun, crispy delight, but as a main dish, they fall flat. The crunch you expect quickly turns into a soggy mess under the weight of cheese, beans, and other toppings. What was supposed to be a hearty meal becomes a challenge to eat. Uneven distribution of toppings means you might get a bite full of flavor, followed by one that’s bland. Nachos are better suited as a starter to share, allowing you to enjoy their crispy glory before they become a soggy disappointment.

3. Fajitas at Chain Restaurants

Fajitas at chain restaurants are often more show than substance. Sure, they arrive at your table sizzling and steaming, promising an exciting meal. But look beyond the theatrics, and you’ll likely find dry, overcooked meat and limp vegetables lacking in flavor. The spectacle of fajitas can overshadow their actual taste, leaving you wishing for a more satisfying meal. Smaller, authentic venues might offer a better take on this dish, where the focus is on quality ingredients and balanced flavors rather than just a flashy presentation.

4. Taco Salads in Fried Shells

Taco salads in fried shells often deceive with a healthy guise. What could be a fresh, vibrant meal becomes a calorie-laden choice once you factor in the deep-fried tortilla bowl and heaps of cheese and sour cream. Despite their colorful appearance, these salads frequently lack the freshness associated with traditional Mexican fare. The shell, meant to add texture, can become soggy under the weight of toppings. For a more authentic experience, skip the fried shell and opt for grilled meats and fresh veggies.

5. Queso Dip with Everything

Queso dip is tempting, but the allure often fades fast. Most versions served are overly thick, with a heaviness that makes them unsuitable as a meal. While tasty, they are usually filled with processed cheese and excessive salt, drowning out any nuanced flavors. Pairing queso with every dish can make meals monotonous and bloated. The richness of the dip might initially satisfy, but can quickly lead to flavor fatigue. Instead, explore more dynamic appetizers or dips that highlight the freshness of Mexican cuisine.

6. Oversized Burritos Loaded with Rice

Oversized burritos packed with rice may leave you full, but not fulfilled. These hefty creations often prioritize bulk over quality, stuffing a flour tortilla with bland white rice and basic beans. The promise of a hearty meal is overshadowed by a lack of dynamic flavors and textures. While they might satisfy hunger, these burritos rarely provide a memorable dining experience. For a more rewarding meal, seek out smaller burritos with balanced fillings, focusing on protein, fresh vegetables, and bold sauces.

7. Combo Plates Drenched in Cheese

Combo plates drenched in cheese may seem like a good idea, but they often mask the true flavors of the dishes beneath. The one-of-everything approach results in a chaotic mix where greasy cheese dominates. Rice and beans, staples in Mexican cuisine, turn bland in this setup, overshadowed by the excessive cheese. The overall experience can be overwhelmingly rich, missing the balance and freshness that make Mexican food special. When choosing a meal, consider simpler plates that allow individual dishes to shine.

8. Enchiladas with Canned Red Sauce

Enchiladas smothered in canned red sauce often fall short of expectations. The metallic taste from the sauce can overpower the dish, leaving little room for the flavors of the fillings to shine. Freshly made chile sauces elevate enchiladas, offering depth and complexity that canned versions lack. Many restaurants opt for convenience, sacrificing taste in the process. For a genuine experience, seek out places that make their sauces in-house, ensuring a balance of flavors and a more authentic taste of Mexican cuisine.

9. Americanized Ground Beef Tacos

Americanized ground beef tacos often miss the mark when it comes to authentic Mexican flavors. These tacos, whether in soft or hard shells, usually consist of bland ground beef lacking spice and texture. The simplicity of the filling fails to capture the vibrant, complex flavors true Mexican tacos are known for. Missing are the fresh toppings and robust spices that elevate a taco to an unforgettable dish. For a more authentic experience, look for tacos that use traditional meats and seasonings, offering a genuine taste of Mexico.

10. Tacos al Pastor

Tacos al Pastor are a true delight, offering a sweet, smoky, and spicy combination that tantalizes the taste buds. Marinated pork, sliced fresh off the spit, paired with pineapple and cilantro, creates a medley of flavors. Each bite provides a satisfying blend of savory and sweet, with a hint of spice to elevate the experience. This dish showcases the vibrant essence of Mexican street food, bringing the lively atmosphere to your plate. Perfectly balanced, Tacos al Pastor are a must-try for those seeking authentic flavors.

11. Carne Asada Plate

Carne Asada, with its bold flavors, represents simplicity at its best. Grilled steak, seasoned with lime, garlic, and chili, offers a robust taste experience. Served with grilled onions and tortillas, it becomes a satisfying meal full of texture and flavor. Each component complements the other, from the tangy zest of lime to the smoky depth of the steak. Its straightforward preparation allows the quality of ingredients to shine, making Carne Asada a staple for those who appreciate genuine, uncomplicated Mexican cuisine.

12. Chicken Tinga Tostadas

Chicken Tinga Tostadas provide a vibrant and satisfying meal, perfect for those seeking a flavorful bite. The smoky, chipotle-infused chicken sits atop a crunchy tostada, creating a delightful contrast in textures. Topped with fresh lettuce, crema, and slices of avocado, each bite bursts with flavor. The combination of smoky, tangy, and creamy elements ensures a dynamic eating experience. This dish exemplifies the balance of flavors and textures that define great Mexican cuisine, making it a perfect choice for food enthusiasts.

13. Pozole (if available)

Pozole, a hearty hominy-based soup, delivers rich flavors and deep satisfaction. Especially the red version, with pork and chiles, offers a warming experience that’s both filling and comforting. The combination of hominy and tender pork in a spiced broth creates layers of taste that unfold with each spoonful. Traditionally garnished with fresh ingredients like radishes, lime, and lettuce, pozole invites you to customize your bowl. This dish, often reserved for special occasions, brings warmth and tradition to any meal.

14. Shrimp or Fish Tacos (Baja-Style)

Baja-style shrimp or fish tacos offer a light, flavorful alternative to heavier dishes. Grilled or lightly battered seafood provides a fresh base, topped with crunchy slaw, creamy crema, and tangy salsa. Each taco bursts with vibrant flavors and textures, making it an ideal choice for seafood lovers. This style of taco emphasizes freshness and simplicity, allowing the natural taste of the seafood to shine. Paired with a seaside atmosphere, Baja-style tacos transport you to a coastal getaway with every bite.