Best Mexican Restaurants in Redding

Growing up in SoCal has me spoiled for Mexican food. It’s one of my favorite ethnic foods because of the rich flavors and bold ingredients. These are my go-to’s for great Mexican food in Redding. Try them all!

1. Roquitos Taqueria (now closed)

2605 S Market St, Redding, CA 96001 | 530.768.1103

This is the quintessential hole-in-the-wall Mexican spot. Featuring amazing quality meat, especially the carnitas which are smoked for hours. My favorite is the burrito with carnitas (it’s the size of a little baby). Make sure to get it Roquitos-style for the trade secret sauce that includes jalapeños and lime juice. They have a very small outside eating area with picnic tables and misters for the Redding summer heat, so it’s probably best to take it with you.

2. Casa Rios Grill

1647 Hartnell Ave #1, Redding, CA 96002 | 530.276.0646

Since Roquitos closed down I decided to add another one of my favorite Mexican restaurants to visit in Redding; Casa Rios. This is a sit-down restaurant with ample room in the dining area and fast, friendly service from everyone there. My boss who happens to be Mexican introduced me to this place and I’ve fallen in love since! Try it out!

3. El Delicioso Burrito

1275 Churn Creek Rd, Redding, CA 96003 | 530.222.2921

Another hole-in-the-wall type Mexican spot, this time in a gas station. One of the few places that open late in Redding for your late-night cravings and they have a drive-thru. How convenient! The only place I know that does carne asada fries well. Brings me back to my roots in SoCal where I can get carne asada fries 24 hours a day. The California burrito is another favorite! They also have a fairly good sized eating area with a salsa bar. Not super fancy, but it does the job!

4. Tacos El Norteño Food Truck

Corner of Airport Road and Old Oregon Trail

This taco truck is the most authentic in Redding for sure. They’re usually parked Monday to Friday around lunch time (until around 4ish). One of the few places that serve cabeza (meat from a roasted head, typically beef), lengua (tongue), and tripas (intestines). My personal favorite from here are the lengua tacos or burrito. If you can catch them, you’re in for an authentic Mexican experience. Make sure you bring cash as they don’t accept credit cards.

5. Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant

435 E Cypress Ave, Redding, CA 96002 | 530.223.2540

If you’re looking for a sit-down experience with an authentic south-of-the-border ambience, Guadalajara’s is for you! This is the place my Mexican friend recommended so you can’t go wrong there. They have fresh-made tortilla chips and salsa and the food and service is great.

6. La Cocina de Chuy

2030 Eureka Way, Redding, CA 96001 | 530.262.8646

Formerly known as El Rinconcito (under new ownership), this place is another spot next to a gas station. The space is cozy and quaint, with a blend of Mexican and South American cuisine. The horchata is amazing here and the staff is super friendly.

7. Taqueria Los Gordos

5200 Churn Creek Rd # L, Redding, CA 96002 | 530.222.5081

With two locations to serve you, Los Gordos is another great option for Mexican food. I prefer the Churn Creek location because of the ample parking and convenient location. Great, friendly staff and large portions make this Mexican restaurant another one for the list. The seating area is more spacious than La Cocina de Chuy and the salsa bar is amazing.

8. Chipotle Mexican Grill

961 Dana Dr, Redding, CA 96003 | 530.223.9292

No list of Mexican restaurants is complete without Chipotle, especially for those who are afraid to try cabeza or lengua. Super convenient location in the heart of the city and you know exactly what to expect; quick, healthy and fresh food that is hard to get tired of. I can eat here everyday if I had to. It can get pretty busy around lunchtime and parking can be a challenge, but definitely worth it. You can order with the Chipotle app to save some time and go straight to the cashier to pick up your food. A little secret: you can ask for cilantro and lemon or lime slices to add later!