Mestizo Taqueria

Mestizo Taqueria in Kensington completely lived up to the hype. Every single taco we tried was packed with flavor and tasted incredibly fresh. The meats were juicy and well seasoned, the salsas had the perfect balance of heat and brightness, and the toppings brought everything together really well. Portion sizes were generous too, which made the whole experience feel like great value. The plate came out looking amazing and somehow tasted even better than it looked. I didn’t end up getting a drink this time, but the drinks I saw going to other tables looked fun and really well made. Overall this place was a solid 10/10 for me. I’ll definitely be back soon and bringing some friends next time so they can try it too.

- Dylan -

Calgary’s market is flooded with Mexican food options boasting authentic tastes and flavours—and thankfully, Mestizo Taqueria doesn’t fall short. I went all out to make sure I sampled as much as possible. Here’s the lineup: • Cheesy Birria • Cheesy Al Pastor • Sirloin • Mayan Pork • Beef Tongue • Slow Braised Pork • Orange-Marinated Pork • Pork Sausage Each taco came paired with one of three perfectly matched salsas—flavourful, balanced, and never overpowering. They elevated every bite. Raw onions are usually my Achilles heel, but whatever prep or variety they use here totally works. I was able to enjoy every taco from start to finish without a second thought. I wish I could pick just one taco to hype up, but honestly? I can’t. Every single one stood out in its own way and deserves to be tried at least once. Shout-out to Uber for trekking my order from NW Calgary all the way to the deep SE. My taste buds appreciate you! Bottom line: check this place out and decide for yourself. I’m definitely glad I did.

- Simon Rodger -

First time with my girlfriend here and we tried lunch for two. It was really great! Only thing we weren’t happy was the special drink of the day (it was Saturday), which was hot chocolate. I am a hot chocolate person. Their drink was too sweet and less chocolate in it.

- Naris -

The tacos were absolutely delicious, super filling with amazing flavours! I had the chicken and veggie tacos, and both were excellent. We also tried a couple of the specials, including a corn mayo dish, which was decent, though we couldn't finish all the chips. The pork with guacamole was also really tasty, but the tacos definitely stood out. We'll definitely be coming back for more! Our server was incredibly sweet and attentive, especially considering we were a pretty large group. Great experience overall!

- taetokii -

Huge gorgeous patio, friendly staff, delicious mango margarita pitchers, and I was surprised to see that the ENTIRE menu is gluten free (and peanut free!). Got Baja tacos for the first time in ages. I was so happy to take my friends here and they kept raving about it!

- Gabi Brodeur -

Just AMAZING! Came here for the first time with a friend from Germany (never been to Canada prior) and he INSISTED we come back the next day for Taco Tuesday! Discounts are awesome (come during happy hour and taco Tuesday for 50% off mixed drinks and 25% off tacos with a drink order!) That way you can get 50% off a mixed drink that will qualify you for happy hour! The tacos are phenomenal and packed with protein unlike other restaurants that skimp out. Very affordable and you can order so many tacos since their minis and try lots! Super friendly and rarely busy (at least during happy hour). Excellent Mexican-style cocktails too! Best taco place I’ve ever been to all the way around. You gotta try it!

- Olivia Uzan -

You’ve not had tacos like this. They are 1) succulent, 2) packed with flavor, 3) big, not those tiny little things you get elsewhere, and 4) unique. You cannot create this taste at home and I have not found this flavor profile elsewhere. The drinks are also unique and delicious. The patio is upstairs overlooking 10th street with chill music and sun umbrellas floating all about you. I’m half-cut on their guava margarita so I might not make sense but that’s up to you. Their. Lamb. Is. Bomb. I don’t even know if you’d be allowed to cross the border with this in your possession. I cook a lot of lamb and they nail the slow-cooked flavor paired with subtle and deep flavors. The cheese they melt onto the tacos in some of their options cannot be missed. It is thick and chewy and gooey perfect. The chips and guacamole are quality. They do not disappoint. I like how it works here: you fill in your choices on a paper menu after consuming the normal menu at your table. Then they bring your stuff. It’s just easy and fast. The staff is always friendly and helpful. It’s a super chill place. There are so many choices in Kensington, but if you like tacos and fun drinks, you have to make it here. On my one night a year away from family obligations I have just chosen to come here again. As a hedonist, I do not risk losing out on pleasure, so here I am. Again. Yes, my wife knows. She may not like it, but she knows.

- Reh Mulji -

Guac was really fresh. Interesting drinks. Fun to watch the drinks being made. Authentic Mexican style setup. Bit pricey. Friendly staff. Hibiscus taco was kinda chewy and salty, good to try. Few vegetarian options. Hidden spot kinda location. Patio seating. Clean and fresh. Ordering system with paper pencil - fill and buzz the ring.

- Swati R -