Nestled between the rolling hills of Chesterfield County and the historic charm of Old Buckingham Road, Midlothian is a corner of Virginia you could explore endlessly and always uncover another culinary gem. While the area boasts its share of scenic trails and colonial landmarks, if you’re like us, the true destination is always the table—and these ten Mexican restaurants prove why.
El Guapo
$ | (804) 447-2452 | WEBSITE
El Guapo in Midlothian has solidified its reputation over the years, earning a spot among the “10 Best Mexican Restaurants” for its consistently authentic and satisfying food. The recently enlarged seating area creates a welcoming, no-frills space that’s perfect for quick meals with friends or family gatherings. It’s the ideal backdrop for memorable casual dining, whether you’re grabbing a quick bite under $15 or sharing a feast with loved ones.
Their menu of classic Mexican street food focuses on fresh, handmade ingredients, like the legendary Al Pastor tacos with blue corn tortillas and juicy, flavorful meats. While you can build your own meal from their affordable tacos and sides, we recommend trying their house-made horchata or jamaica to complete the experience. The street corn and nachos are standout options that regulars always order.
The friendly staff and passionate family owners make every visit feel special, even if some wish for Mexican music in the background. It’s a place where you can just be happy you tried some amazing food, and many plan to return even from far away.
LA FUENTE MEXICAN RESTAURANT
$ | (804) 918-3227 | WEBSITE
If a family reunion had a Mexican theme, this welcoming Midlothian spot would be the perfect venue for the celebration. It’s in a cozy storefront with a warm, family-friendly atmosphere that’s full of colorful murals and the friendliest staff you’ve ever met. Dig into birria tacos, enjoy the lively chatter, and sip on a passionfruit margarita that’s mixed right at the bar.
The food is primarily authentic Mexican dishes, like tender quesabirria tacos and flavorful rice and beans you’ll crave for days. This place is popular and slightly bustling, so make sure to arrive with an appetite before you go and plan on a generous, satisfying meal.
Two Compadres Taqueria Bar & Grill
$ | (804) 464-4220 | WEBSITE
In a town where you can easily find decent Tex-Mex or fast-food tacos, authentic Mexican cuisine is still hard to come by. Enter: Two Compadres Taqueria Bar & Grill, an always welcoming spot in Midlothian that fills the gap with perfectly seasoned street tacos and dedication to generous, family-friendly dining.
Classics like the chicken street tacos, served in hearty portions, might be on the menu, alongside less typical cocktails like the sops dragon that all pair well with one of their over twenty margaritas, beautifully garnished with fresh fruit and flowers. Two Compadres looks like a beautiful patio oasis, and it’s a step above casual with service that’s dialed up a fair bit.
Mi Jalisco Family Mexican Restaurant
$ | (804) 325-3920 | WEBSITE
Mi Jalisco has been a Midlothian staple for years, and for good reason—it was the first family-friendly Mexican spot in town when it opened, and it still is. The restaurant, known for its welcoming atmosphere, is perfect for a relaxed meal after exploring the area or before heading out for the evening. Try to grab one of the comfortable booths near the window overlooking the street.
The Guadalajara special is amazing, the burritos Texano are generous, and coming here for the fresh-tasting salsa and white sauce with the family for dinner is never a bad move. Whatever you decide, finish with one of their large margaritas from the extensive menu.
Rico’s Mexican Restaurant
$ | (804) 639-3933 | WEBSITE
This patio spot in Midlothian has all the trappings of a great Mexican restaurant but without the chaotic atmosphere and long waits. Prices are reasonable, and the mood lighting is warm, making it feel inviting right off the bat. The predominantly taco- and margarita-focused menu inspired by authentic Mexican cuisine is delightfully satisfying, and we’d expect nothing less from the kitchen behind those standout potato and chorizo street tacos.
Knockout dishes include the taco salad with delicious white sauce and fresh toppings, and the chili rellenos accompanied by perfectly seasoned fillings. The drink list highlights amazing margaritas and includes an impressive variety of beverage options, like the sweet tea reminiscent of Hardee’s signature beverage.
Chuy’s
$ | (804) 562-7464 | WEBSITE
Chuy’s isn’t a traditional Tex-Mex restaurant like so many others we know and love. Instead, this spot serves things like the Elvis Presley Memorial Combo enchiladas, and while your brain might start to hurt just thinking about that, we promise it’s great. The chicken fajitas with fresh tortillas and variety of sauces are another thing you should prioritize. They come with homemade tortilla chips and will have you wondering what other versions of fajitas you’ve been missing out on.
El Arriero Mexican Food Midlothian
$ | (804) 745-7000 | WEBSITE
In the heart of Midlothian is El Arriero, a vibrant and charming spot that’s become a local favorite for fresh, delicious Mexican food. Traditional dishes are served with excellent flavors and seasonings that make everything taste wonderfully authentic, and keep us happily returning week after week.
Their menu offers a wide variety of options, like the notably spicy salsa that comes with free chips, their excellent Birria tacos with perfect seasoning, and the sneaky good frozen margaritas that provide a refreshing treat. The inside is cheerful—think colorful Mexican decor with lively atmosphere—but it’s the food, served in generous portions at reasonable prices (most entrees around $12-$18), that truly shines.
Mr. Pepe Mexican Restaurant
$ | (804) 818-5953 | WEBSITE
Mr. Pepe Mexican Restaurant and Rico’s are inherently intertwined: They’re both in Midlothian, the chicken fajitas at Mr. Pepe are also served at Rico’s, and Mr. Pepe’s most popular dish—the chicken quesadilla that’s freshly made daily—was initially created to compete with Rico’s signature offerings.
There’s also a similar focus on vibrant flavors and generous portions, with a dinner for two for about $40 or the option to order things like steak quesadillas or an assortment of sauces including house hot sauce and guacamole à la carte. If you can’t get a table during peak dinner hours, then come for one of the best lunches in this area. Or any area.
QDOBA Mexican Eats
$ | (804) 794-2610 | WEBSITE
Yes, the vegetarian burritos at QDOBA Mexican Eats are very good, but they aren’t the main reason to stop by. It’s one of the most reliable and welcoming fast-casual spots we’ve ever visited, and it’s located conveniently in Midlothian (which you can and should swing by). The clean, compact space, typical of the chain’s efficient setup, is a blend of bright lighting and a more functional layout, with simple tables and booths, and a mix of straightforward, comfortable seating.
There’s a friendly staff including attentive servers like Wendy and Jose scattered throughout the space, who you can chat with while going through the straightforward menu of burritos and other Mexican eats.
Salsas Don Sebastian
$$ | (703) 987-8299 | WEBSITE
Salsas Don Sebastian may just be the most flavorful spot in Midlothian. It’s housed in a vibrant, colorful storefront that feels authentically Mexican, and most of the dining area is bright and welcoming. The atmosphere is ideal for a casual lunch, a quick snack craving, or a family outing where everyone can share.
Most of their signature salsas are made fresh daily, with standouts that include the jalapeño dip served with homemade Totopos, a classic tomato salsa with perfect spice balance, and a verde salsa that should be bottled and sold everywhere. Pair it all with one of their refreshing aguas frescas, like the hibiscus tea, served ice-cold and perfectly sweet.
