There was a time when finding authentic, high quality Mexican food was hard to come by in Colorado Springs. That time has passed and as the Springs keeps growing, it continues to become more diverse. The number of people identifying as Hispanic or Latino increased by 38% from 2010 to 2020, marking the largest gain of any group and bringing the local Hispanic community to approximately 85,000 people, or 18% of the Colorado Springs population. And that’s good news for eaters like us who dig Latin-inspired cuisine.
We may not have the hard data, but we’re willing to correlate an increase in good Mexican food over the last few years with this uptick and can attest that nowadays, it’s hard to narrow down whose repping “the best” Mexican eats.
Find a few of RMFR’s top picks below and head to SpringsMag to find the complete list, voted on by a team of contributing writers.
Dos Santos
Dos Santos encompasses Mexican fusion with an urban flare that is accentuated by bright, modern vibes and an impressive bar program cranking out some of the strongest, fruit-forward margaritas in town. Get in on their fresh seafood starters with the poke nachos and ceviche to share before cashing in on their signature Taco of the Month for an on-point seasonal take. If you’re a fan of rap, be sure to check out Wu-Tang Wednesdays to enjoy the old school hip-hop soundtrack rockin’ all day long. —D.P.
70 E. Moreno Ave.
dossantostacos.com
El Chapin
This resident food truck outside of Ranch Foods Direct holds space for the most authentic Mexican street food you’ll find anywhere in the Springs. The humble yet delicious basket presentation yields high-quality, local proteins sourced from Callicrate Meat, which is also available to purchase inside the neighboring boutique grocery store. We highly recommend venturing out of your comfort zone to try the lengua tacos for a tasty, textural trio, and pair it with an agua fresca while dining under their covered patio. —D.P.
1228 E. Fillmore St.
elchapinfoodtruck.com
Jarrito Loco
This casual restaurant in Monument exudes familial vibes with homegrown recipes that co-owners Angel and Angie Jimenez inherited from their Grandmother Maria. Tune in for their weekly Tuesday specials. Enjoy breakfast served all day. And explore a variety of vegetarian and gluten free menu items. Try the Carne Tampiqueña to get a taste of their signature mole enchilada with a half order of carne asada and all the typical fixin’s. —D.P.
315 W. Highway 105, Monument
jarloco.com
Milagro’s Cocina Mexicana
The vibrant art, decor and elevated ambiance encourages you to experience Mexican culture at its finest with a menu that speaks volumes about the diversity of regional cuisine. Explore Milagro’s extensive library of tequilas and mezcal by sipping on one of their specialty cocktails (the spicy pineapple margarita is a crowd pleaser) with a selection of pickled apertivos or bacon wrapped prawns. For your entree, we highly recommend the Cochinita Pibil that showcases an impressive braised pork shank wrapped beautifully in banana leaves and served with habanero jam and frijoles charros. —D.P.
7455 N. Academy Blvd.
milagroscocinamx.com
Tepex
Tepex is arguably one of the most popular food trucks in Colorado Springs. Chef Fernando Trancoso has carved out his place as an authority on Mexican food with an undeniable influence from his former foodie hometown of Santa Fe. Loyal patrons follow him routinely on his craft brewery rotation to pair local beers with his upscale, yet accessible plates. Don’t miss the beloved Quesabirrias with four tacos and a side of consomme that you’ll be just as excited to drink as your accompanying brewski. —D.P.
Locations vary. Look him up soon as his truck is for sale.
tepexbyfernando.com
Header photo courtesy of Bordon Inc.
