Northwest Arkansas is a mixing pot of various cultures, thanks to both the University of Arkansas and the unique spirit of Fayetteville. Mexican food has become a staple in town, and the options for authentic and affordable Mexican cuisine are boundless.
Being in the South, Fayetteville is home to many Southern traditions, including family-owned Mexican restaurants. While we can’t promise to end the “cheese-dip vs. queso” debate, anyone who respects a high-quality Mexican meal can agree that Fayetteville’s local options are top-notch.
Our Mexican restaurants double as family and college friendly, with kid menus, sombreros and endless drink specials. Fayetteville's Mexican restaurants are loaded with salsa, guacamole and chips, fulfilling any salt-and-lime infused pre-Dickson Street parties or Cinco de Mayo celebrations. Oh, and did we mention margarita specials?
Fajitas, enchiladas and tacos are just a few of the savory specials featured at Mexican restaurants in Fayetteville. Affordable seafood and spicy salsa freely abound in many of the local hot spots. Whether you’re looking to have your meal served in a pineapple (yes, that’s real) or a fish with eyes that watch you eat (yes, that’s real as well), Fayetteville restaurants can satisfy any south-of-the-border cravings.
The Legendary Steven Special
While not an actual restaurant, the local favorite Mexican plate is the “Steven Special,” a bed of rice topped with strips of grilled chicken and smothered in white queso. Almost every Mexican restaurant in town serves this Fayetteville favorite, and while we’re not exactly sure who the real “Steven” is, local legend has it that he was a total genius who created one of the best meals on the planet. Be sure to check it out at any of the following places!
Mexico Viejo
A favorite amongst college students and families alike, Mexico Viejo has both the atmosphere and the quality of food sure to please any Mexican-food connoisseur. Located in the heart of the college-town, Mexico Viejo is perfect for a game day meal or a post-college-visit snack. With a huge menu and a lively staff, this restaurant is sure to please.
While Mexico Viejo serves traditional staples, their menu is also packed with lunch specials and a variety of fajita plates. Their ghost pepper fajitas are absolutely to die for, and their seafood menu is one of the biggest in town. Whether you’re looking for soup, salads, seafood or specials, Mexico Viejo has got a perfect, authentic Mexican meal for you.
Sabor Guacamole
Founded in Fayetteville, Sabor Guacamole features homemade Mexican food and a locally-owned flair all its own. The outdoor patio is lively and fun, complete with a hall of fame wall to add your favorite picture of your precious pooch. Sabor Guacamole is home to one of the best bowls of guacamole in town and features traditional platters, as well as local favorites. They have a complete section of their menu dedicated to guacamole-centered dishes that will satisfy any avocado-enthusiast. They prepare the Guacamole Tradicional fresh at your table and their Nachos Supreme are some of the best in town!
La Hacienda
Locals go absolutely 'loco' for LaHa. The casual atmosphere makes it a great place to come as a group and stay for the delicious drinks and daily specials. Their authentic Mexican cuisine is affordable and traditional, complete with sizzling fajitas and deep-fried favorites like the chimichangas. The locally-owned Mexican restaurant has been an East Fayetteville favorite since 2000.
La Huerta
With two locations to choose from, family-run La Huerta has become part of the cherished dining scene since 1994. Well known for their fresh, daily-made tortillas and their Monster Margaritas, they have a large menu of traditional Mexican dishes that will surely please everyone in your party, including the vegetarians in your group. Their selection of Vegetarian Combos is larger than most restaurants, allowing for no one to go hungry!
El Mezcal Mexican Bar & Grill
You may be right off the Fayetteville Square, but when you walk in to El Mezcal, you could very well feel you are somewhere in Mexico! Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere inside or if the weather permits, there is some charming outdoor seating available for some people watching as well. Rumor has it (we asked the staff) that if you don’t know what to try first, get their El Mescalito, Carne Carly or the Quesabirria (vetted and approved!). It's probably no surprise that they serve handcrafted cocktails and stock a thoughtfully curated selection of mezcals and tequilas.
To learn more about the great restaurants Fayetteville has to offer, check out our Restaurant Guide.
