Sure, you could wait for Cinco de Mayo to crave authentic Mexican food. But you’ll want to visit these Brick spots no matter what day it is. Whether you’re craving sizzling fajitas or just a perfect taco, these are our favorite places for genuine flavors—that also happen to be the best in town. Head to any for a memorable meal, and the added bonus of discovering NJ’s vibrant Mexican scene.
Taco-Tastic IV
$ | (732) 202-6982 | WEBSITE
Taco-Tastic IV is part Mexican eatery, part neighborhood gem in Brick, and you don’t have to be craving tacos to appreciate this spot. Use the friendly counter service at this clean, well-decorated space to grab things like the daily lunch special, chipotle tacos with verde salsa, and Mexican sodas during the week. Or swing by for a Taco Tuesday deal of fresh, flavorful options with that 20% discount. If they have warm, cinnamon-dusted churros on hand, order some.
Mi Casa Tu Casa Restaurant
$ | (732) 202-7586 | WEBSITE
Mi Casa Tu Casa Restaurant is behind what might be the most popular Mexican spot in Brick. And their other dishes (tamales, chorizo empanadas, and enchiladas) aren’t exactly struggling to win fans either. To merely call this place popular would be an understatement. This restaurant—decorated with vibrant Mexican folk art—serves uniformly exceptional dishes like Birria and Al Pastor tacos, nachos with chorizo, and trio fajitas.
If you don’t arrive early for one of the limited tables, it might be a short wait until you’re seated—quite possibly next to someone who’s been coming here for years. The friendly staff, including server Yael, provides attentive hospitality, and you can enjoy a meal for five for less than $100.
Azteca Mexican Restaurant
$ | (732) 202-7572 | WEBSITE
At Azteca, the owners make it a point to maintain a family-friendly atmosphere with consistently friendly service. Beyond its welcoming vibe, this authentic Mexican restaurant in Brick has earned a loyal following for its chicken enchiladas with mole sauce. Azteca has a spacious dining area, and live mariachi music on Friday nights, where you should settle in for generous portions like the birria tacos and tortilla soup.
The empanadas and chimichangas are especially well-liked, and the side of refried beans always hits the spot, all at fair prices that keep regulars coming back.
El Mexico Lindo
$ | (732) 701-1930 | WEBSITE
Owner Maria Rodriguez opened El Mexico Lindo as a gathering space where people could become more familiar with authentic Mexican cuisine, and like most good restaurants in this area, it’s always crowded. Fortunately, the crowd here is a little less hurried than at some of the spots just around the corner. Snag a stool or one of the small tables, place your order at the counter, and wait patiently for your plate of life-affirming chilaquiles with steak and red sauce to arrive.
If you can’t decide what to order from the satisfying menu, try one of their signature dishes like the Steak Azteca Salad or Steak Fajita Burrito.
Cielito Lindo
$ | (732) 903-6934 | WEBSITE
Occasionally, we think to ourselves: “Maybe Cielito Lindo has shorter waits now.” And we’re always surprised. But their perfectly cooked, authentic Mexican food is totally worth it when you finally get a table. Our favorite way to experience this colorful, music-filled space is by grabbing a few seats near the window. Start with a margarita and an order of hot pork tacos, and be sure to get the brisket tacos and steak platter with rice and beans.
Tacoholics
$ | (732) 458-8226 | WEBSITE
Tacoholics is a welcoming Brick spot that’s billed as a Mexican restaurant with generous portions at reasonable prices. The food on the extensive menu is absolutely amazing, and you may find deliciously satisfying options like the Big Shrimping meal with three soft shell tacos, the surf and turf burrito, or nachos made with Sweet Chili Doritos. But the food is also almost besides the point. What is central here is a sense of warmth and hospitality.
The staff is friendly and helpful, with some employees going above and beyond—especially when assisting with dietary restrictions like vegetarian or limited gluten-free needs. Be sure to check out the secret menu for favorites like the Taco trio, and know this clean, welcoming spot leaves you feeling full and satisfied, making it especially recommended for after-parties or late-night treats.
EL GANADERO RESTAURANT
$$ | (848) 298-6679 | WEBSITE
EL GANADERO RESTAURANT, whose kitchen is run with genuine passion, is a warmly lit haven where you can order from a menu that balances Mexican classics with American comfort favorites. Despite offering both traditional dishes and crowd-pleasing burgers, and a kitchen that stays open late on weekends, EL GANADERO still maintains high standards for their nachos and cuts of meat.
This Brick spot is also open for lunch and dinner, and its impressive consistency should give you the confidence to try some standout options, like the amazing dips and the must-try buffalo chicken.
Rosalita’s Roadside Cantina
$$ | (732) 739-7055 | WEBSITE
The $25 fajitas at Rosalita’s Roadside Cantina are a family feast and a neighborhood hangout rolled into one, fueled by rounds of free chips and salsa. The chatter around the spacious dining room will gradually get warmer as you go through the meal, starting with the complimentary chips and salsa, followed by entrees dressed up in everything from fresh guacamole and pico de gallo to sour cream and shredded cheese. The experience is a bit familiar, but still comforting, and the food is delicious.
Bartender Camella, a talented margarita mixer and one of the attentive staff, is a big advocate for accommodating dietary restrictions, which ensures a pleasant experience for everyone.
Bubbakoo’s Burritos
$ | (732) 477-6200 | WEBSITE
Bubbakoo’s Burritos is a great place to have on standby. That sounds like we’re comparing it to a backup plan you hope you never need. But what we’re actually saying is that the reliable Mexican food and efficient service make Bubbakoo’s an easy choice for pretty much any situation. Looking to celebrate something? The make-your-own burrito concept lets you customize exactly what you want. Want to blow off steam after a long day? The burritodilla and ground beef chiwawa are made fresh to order.
The staff handles even difficult customers with polite efficiency, and the ample parking makes it convenient when you’re in a hurry. One tip: ask for the traditional roll on your burrito for more uniform bites. Overall, Bubbakoo’s delivers good quality, fresh food with helpful service, making it a solid spot for quick Mexican meals.
Manna Bagels Cafe
$ | (732) 701-3209 | WEBSITE
Manna Bagels Cafe is a classic breakfast spot in Brick, and while ordering a dozen bagels for twenty bucks may sound indulgent, this family-run cafe serves exactly the kind of morning fuel you need to start your day right. Grab an everything egg bagel with its perfect crunch outside and soft inside—and don’t skip the Costa Rican coffee. This is an early-riser’s place, so come before the morning rush for the full experience, and try not to spill on the clean, chill surroundings.
