Best Hidden Gems Mexican Restaurants in Williamsburg
7 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
De Mole
Slow-simmered Puebla-style mole and generous, homey plates.
Notable Picks
#1
De Mole
8.5
Family-run De Mole brings Puebla-style cooking to a cozy Williamsburg corner, built around a deeply layered mole that takes days to make. Locals rely on it for generous plates, reliable brunch, and classic Mexican comfort at price points that still feel reasonable for the neighborhood.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pollo con mole poblano, Enchiladas de pollo con mole, Al pastor tacos
What Makes it Special: Slow-simmered Puebla-style mole and generous, homey plates.
#2
Zona Rosa
8.3
Zona Rosa delivers traditional Mexican tacos from a retro‑style Spartan trailer, with a rooftop deck perfect for late‑night margaritas and taco runs. Locals appreciate the laid‑back vibe and solid execution of al pastor and carnitas tacos well past dinner hours.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor Taco, Carnitas Taco, Weekend Margaritas
What Makes it Special: Tacos from a 1956 Spartan trailer with a rooftop deck vibe.
8.1
Hidden behind a storefront on Kent, The Cactus Shop runs like a Mexican-leaning speakeasy with cocktails first and tacos, flautas, and snacks to back them up. It’s where Williamsburg leans for date-y drinks, brunch plates, and late-night rounds in a lush, plant-filled room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tinga quesadilla, Esquites chilangos, Flautas de birria
What Makes it Special: Speakeasy-style Mexican bar where cocktails share equal billing with tacos and snacks.
#4
Esse Taco
8
Esse Taco delivers casual counter‑service tacos in central Williamsburg, popular for quick bites and solid tacos without the fuss. It’s a good mid‑tier option when you want freshness and affordability, especially if you don’t need frills or late‑night cocktails.
Must-Try Dishes:
Adobada Taco, Al Pastor Taco, Veggie Taco
What Makes it Special: Casual tacos with good value on Bedford Ave.
Worthy Picks
7.8
Mexico 2000 is a lively cantina-style spot where big plates of tacos, birria, and quesadillas meet strong margaritas and frequent drink specials. It’s the kind of place where you can stretch a budget, linger on the back patio, and still get a full sit-down Mexican meal.
Must-Try Dishes:
Birria tacos, Chicken quesadilla, Chips with guacamole
What Makes it Special: Huge portions, strong margaritas, and late-night-friendly pricing.
7.8
A late-night taco truck parked by East River Bar turning out straightforward tacos and burritos for the South Side crowd. It functions as an after-hours refuel stop for bar-goers who want something hot and filling before heading home.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak Tacos, Chicken Tacos, Burritos
What Makes it Special: Late-night tacos served curbside steps from the Williamsburg Bridge.
7.8
Taqueria Casa Imelda is a casual South Williamsburg spot for sizable burritos, bowls, and late-night tacos at softer pricing. It’s the move when you want counter-friendly Mexican with generous portions and a full bar without leaving the immediate neighborhood.
Must-Try Dishes:
Traditional birria tacos, Steak supreme burrito, Grilled shrimp quesadilla
What Makes it Special: Neighborhood taqueria known for big, affordable burritos and late-night tacos.