They're not easy to find but there are some gems for a good legit Mexican meal if you look hard enough in Tampa Bay. Sure there are the big chains, but the real magic is when you find one of those hole-in-the-wall family restaurants. They sometimes look a little sketchy on the outside, but when you step in and smell those smells, you know you're about to experience something good.
Got another one I should try that didn't make this list? Tweet @GenoRadio or leave a message on my Facebook page.
It's Cinco de Mayo so our thoughts today turn to fajitas and margaritas. Being someone who lived in California for a good chunk of years, I was spoiled by great authentic Mexican food. I'm glad I lived in California. But I'm glad I left. I love the Florida life. However, the legit Mexican food and drinks is something I really miss. Fortunately we have some just-as-good spots here in the Tampa area. For food, here are my 5 picks. But let's focus on margaritas.
Clearwater
Huarache Azteca
22097 US Hwy 19 N, Clearwater, FL
(727) 290-7836
My favorite thing here is their homemade salsa. Stop by during happy hour for 2 margaritas with lemon and tamarind for $6.
Largo
Fiesta Taqueria
1479 Belcher Rd Ste B Largo, FL 33771
(727) 223-9118
You're going to get a great meal here to go along with your margarita. Take it from someone who lived in California for quite a few years... this is legit Mexican food. And the prices are more than reasonable.
Plant City
Taco Loco Latin Food
2006 W Reynolds Street, Plant City, FL 33563
(813) 752-8841
If you like big drinks, this is the spot. The burritos are just as enormous. The "Death By Burrito" is the thing to get here. It's got seasoned ground beef, rice, beans, mozzarella, guac, lettuce and sour cream. And for margaritas, there are some BOGO deals to check out.
Riverview
El Patron Grill and Cantina
7210 US-301 Riverview, FL 33578
(813) 915-5933
What makes their margaritas stand out... the fresh ingredients. The coconut margarita is a popular one here. Drinks are on the pricier side though. If you're not a fan of coconut, the passion fruit margarita is a good choice. Try the chipotle burrito topped with pico de gallo, queso and pineapples.
Ruskin
Los Amigos Restaurant
17 7th Ave NE Ruskin, FL 33570
(813) 419-4921
Los Amigos Restaurant has a wine-based Margarita so for some it may not hit the spot. But if you like something a little different, give it a try. Their Beef Soup is a favorite too.
Tampa
Taco Dirty
2221 W Platt St Tampa, FL 33606
(813) 314-7900
Taco Dirty is a part of the Ciccio Restaurant Group so you know you're in for something good. The Frozen Mango Margarita for $3.75 is a deal.
Tampa
Giraffe Bar at Busch Gardens
10165 McKinley Dr Tampa, FL 33612
If you like a Margarita with a spicy kick, try The Masai Margarita cocktail consists of Milagro Silver Tequila, Spicy Pineapple, and Lime.
