Whether you like it hot & spicy or bold & flavorful, Little Rock has the Mexican food fix you need. These are my faves of the many Mexican eateries in our city. To me, Tex-Mex is hot, spicy flavors and dishes like enchiladas, fajitas and tacos. Authentic Mexican food is more bold than spicy and they have dishes like chile rellenos and Carnitas. Some places serve both types of food.
1. Senor Tequila
Senor Tequila is an authentic Mexican restaurant. They have a lot of dishes that you won't find elsewhere and they make some very good sauces to go with them. Located on 10300 N. Rodney Parham Road, 224-5505.2. El Porton
I like the food at El Porton and it's not pricey. They have a large selection of authentic dinners to choose from. The atmosphere leaves a little to be desired but the food is great. Located at 12111 W. Markham St., 223-8588. Open 7 days a week.
Amanda GalianoMi Ranchito is located on 1520 Market Street in the same building that has been home to many Mexican restaurants over the years. Overall, this place is pretty standard: good food, good portion size and good service. Check them out if you're in the area. Located at 1520 Market (off Rodney Parham). Call 501-223-5414.
4. Juanita's
Juanita's is known for their music and atmosphere but they have great food too! It's prety much your standard Tex-Mex but it's good and served in a jumping atmosphere. Located on 1300 S. Main, 372-1228. Open Mon.-Sat.5. Cozymels
This is a great chain restaurant. They have a lot of seafood choices if you want to try some authentic Mexican seafood. Some of their sauces are interesting. Located at 10 Shackleford Drive, 954-7100. Open 7 days a week.6. Mexico Chiquita
There is no sit down Mexico Chiquita in Little Rock anymore, however they still have a drive through at their old location (on Rodney Parham) and a new takeout on Markham. They have decent food at decent prices. It's not the best but it is the place to go for a quick Mexican food fix.7. Brownings
Brownings has been around for a while and they still know how to do Tex-Mex. The portions aren't as big as some of the chains but the lower prices match. The food is great, even if it is a bit bland for Mexican. Brownings has a few selections that I haven't found elsewhere. Great salsa! Located on 5805 Kavanaugh Blvd., 663-9956. Open Tue.-Sat.8. La Hacienda
La Hacienda is one of favorite places for authentic Mexican food. If you think "authentic" Mexican is bland, try their spicy green salsa. The rest of their food is great too. lLately the service has been less than stellar. They are moderately priced and open 7 days a week. They are located on 3024 Cantrell Rd. Call 661-0600 for more information or takeout.
