Best Mexican Restaurants in Pasadena (91101)
3 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: April 2026
Our Top Pick
Mercado - Pasadena
Chef Jose Acevedo's signature carnitas recipe passed down through generations, with hand-made tortillas and hand-squeezed cocktail juices
Notable Picks
8.6
Upscale Mexican from restaurateur Jesse Gomez and chef Jose Acevedo (Cocinas y Calaveras group), offering elevated regional cuisine with handmade tortillas and hand-squeezed margaritas. The modern space features three patios, booth seating, and a sophisticated bar showcasing 70+ tequilas and mezcals, while the kitchen delivers refined takes on classics like dos gringas (al pastor tacos) and pumpkin seed-crusted scallops.
Must-Try Dishes:
Guacamole, Chef Jose's Flan, Enchiladas de Pollo en Mole Oaxaqueño
What Makes it Special: Chef Jose Acevedo's signature carnitas recipe passed down through generations, with hand-made tortillas and hand-squeezed cocktail juices
#2
Anayas
8.4
Contemporary Mexican restaurant from the three Anaya brothers (Jose Manuel, Gerardo, and Juan Carlos), each bringing 20+ years of culinary experience to elevated dishes and craft cocktails. The industrial-chic space features live music weekends, an extensive tequila and mezcal selection, and signature plates like slow-cooked barbacoa paired with creative cocktails in a vibrant atmosphere that bridges traditional flavors with modern presentation.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fish Tacos, Chicken Fajitas, Shrimp Ceviche Tostada
What Makes it Special: Newest location from established Mexican restaurant family
8.0
Established family-owned restaurant specializing in Yucatan and Mayan cuisine alongside traditional Mexican favorites, operating for over 25 years with owner Abel at the helm. The cozy interior features a wood-burning fireplace, rotating gallery art, and full bar, while the secluded brick courtyard patio provides peaceful outdoor dining perfect for sipping from their extensive tequila selection.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cochinita Pibil, Spinach Shrimp Enchiladas, Yucatan Tamales
What Makes it Special: Yucatan and Mayan specialties rarely found elsewhere