Hit the North Mississippi Taco Trail

While the MidSouth might be far from south of the border, the exciting mix of traditional Mexican ingredients and Southern culinary culture offered by these five local taco joints can make for unforgettable dining experiences.

Frida’s Mexican Restaurante – Memphis, TN

You know it’s a good Mexican restaurant when corn tortillas are given top billing over their flour-based brethren. Named for the Mexican painter Frida Kahlo, Frida’s Mexican Restaurante in Midtown Memphis boasts an authentic menu that features savory barbacoa and perfectly seasoned carne asada. Frida’s a la carte street tacos, a local favorite that mimics a classic Mexico City delight, are among the must-try items.

Maria’s Cantina – Southaven, MS
Maria’s Cantina boasts the most pleasant patio in DeSoto County, according to a 2014 reader poll – perfect for enjoying a bevy of Mexican-with-a-twist dishes. Their build-your-own taco menu offers a wide variety of combinations, from chipotle-lime shrimp with jalapeños and “El Diablo” habanero sauce to tequila-lime chicken with a hint of mild roasted red pepper sauce. In addition to their soups, tacos and burritos, the expanded menu at Maria’s Cantina includes a few nontraditional and Tex-Mex classics, such as the Loco-Moco breakfast burger.

Guadalajara Grill – Olive Branch, MS
The tacos at Guadalajara Grill in Olive Branch are packed with premium ingredients like marinated chicken, homemade chorizo and spicy, tender carne asada. The Pollo Adove, a menu highlight, presents a heaping helping of grilled chicken, drizzled with a special cream sauce and topped with a spinach-cheese blend served on a bed of rice. Guadalajara Grill also offers several vegetarian options, including enchiladas stuffed with zucchini, tomatoes, squash and mushrooms.

South Depot Taco Shop – Oxford, MS
Oxford’s South Depot Taco Shop offers less authentic and traditional fare in favor of exciting and unique flavor combinations like their fried fish and jalapeño taco topped with coleslaw and chipotle aioli, as well as their buffalo chicken and tomato taco. These unusual combinations can be accompanied with a selection of fresh ingredients like corn salsa and handmade guacamole for a one-of-a-kind taco experience.

Taco Felix – Hernando, MS
Taco Felix near downtown Hernando opens early for breakfast at 6 a.m., making this small taco shop a favorite for Hernando-bound early risers. The menu provides a mix of traditional and localized favorites, including pancake quesadillas, Mexican omelets and huevos rancheros. In addition to breakfast selections, Taco Felix’s tortilla soup and “El Angel Polo” grilled chicken are celebrated among natives and visitors alike.

Story Courtesy Click Magazine
Written by Casey Hilder
Photos by Jordan Nikki Watson