no way jose's is one of the best Mexican Gatlinburg restaurants
April 9, 2026

Gatlinburg is known for being home to so many great places to eat! You can find all types of food, from Southern homestyle cooking to all sorts of international cuisine. If you’re in the mood for tasty Mexican food, you’re in luck! You'll find a variety of restaurants that serve all your Mexican favorites for a festive and flavorful meal that fills you up. Here’s a list of some of the best Mexican Gatlinburg restaurants that you should definitely visit while you’re in town:

1. No Way Jose’s Cantina

One of the best Mexican Gatlinburg restaurants is No Way Jose’s Cantina. You can find this Mexican restaurant on the main Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg right across the street from Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. At No Way Jose’s, you can sit inside or out on the patio when the weather is nice. This restaurant serves authentic Mexican food using only the freshest ingredients. There are so many dishes on the menu to choose from, including classics like fajitas, carne asada, carnitas, tacos, enchiladas, and quesadillas. If you’re interested in trying something unique, order the Chicken and Sour Cream Enchiladas or Papa’s Mexican Pizza. This Mexican restaurant also has an extensive selection of drinks, including margaritas, tropical drinks, and a variety of beers.

2. Loco Burro Fresh Mex Cantina

loco burro is one of the best Mexican Gatlinburg restaurants

If you’re looking for a unique experience, visit Loco Burro Fresh Mex Cantina. This is the only Mexican restaurant in Gatlinburg with a rooftop bar, which means you can enjoy your food and drinks with a great view of downtown Gatlinburg and the surrounding Smoky Mountains. The food menu at Loco Burro has so many delicious meals, including a variety of burritos, quesadillas, tacos, fajitas, enchiladas, and more. You can also order traditional Mexican dishes like Arroz con Pollo, Carne Asada, and Plato Fiesta. Their drink menu offers a large selection of tequilas, beers, wines, and mixed drinks. Some favorite cocktails include the Buckin Burro, Hair of the Donkey, and Sangarita.

3. El Soñador Mexican Restaurant

For great food and a relaxing atmosphere, check out El Soñador Mexican Restaurant, one of the most authentic Mexican Gatlinburg restaurants you don't want to miss. You can find this restaurant in downtown Gatlinburg on the top floor of the Carousel Mall. El Soñador serves tasty TexMex and authentic Mexican cuisine. You can start the meal with guacamole or queso to enjoy with tortilla chips. For your entree, you can choose from so many flavorful options, from chimichangas to fajitas to chicken and steak dishes. If you’re looking for an authentic Mexican meal, try the Pollo Azteca, Mojarra, Tamales Mexicanas, or Carne Asada. They also have a variety of drink options, including beers, ciders, and cocktails.

4. Estrella Hondumex

Baleadas from Mexican Gatlinburg restaurants

One of the most authentic Mexican Gatlinburg restaurants is Estrella Hondumex. Estrella Hondumex is a small grocery store and restaurant located just outside of downtown Gatlinburg on Roaring Fork Road at the East Parkway intersection. On the menu you can find a variety of classic Mexican and Honduran dishes. Stick with your trusty go-to meal or if you're feeling adventurous, try an Honduran specialty. If you are looking for authentic Mexican and Honduran food, this is the place you need to visit while you’re in Gatlinburg. Estrella Hondumex is the perfect example of never judging a book by it's cover! While this hole-in-the-wall restaurant isn't aesthetically pleasing, it has some of the best international cuisine you'll find in the Smokies.

Save Room for Dessert!

After you enjoy a great meal at one of these Mexican Gatlinburg restaurants, make sure you end your meal with a sweet treat! Check out some of the best ice cream shops in Gatlinburg that you should visit after dinner!

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