From casual grab-and-go burritos to elevated coastal takes on traditional recipes, these five restaurants bring the zest, spice, and comfort of Mexico to Florida's Gulf Coast.
From the Smoky Mountains to the Rockies to the calm shores of the Emerald Coast, there comes a time on any trip when a craving for good Mexican food hits. And here in sunny Destin, that craving can be satisfied with some seriously memorable flavors.
Destin may be famous for its fresh seafood and sugar-white beaches, but its Mexican dining scene deserves a spot on your vacation bucket list. Here are some of the best spots to hit:
- Pepito's Mexican Restaurant: Classic Family Favorite
- Burrito Del Sol: Baja-Style Mexican by the Beach
- Mezcal Mexican Grill: Upscale Mexican With a Coastal Twist
- Cantina Laredo: Mexico City Flavors in Sandestin
- Burritacos: Authentic Mexican Grab-and-Go
At RealJoy Vacations, we've been part of the Emerald Coast hospitality scene for years. For more tips, check out our destination blog for insights on all things Emerald Coast, from a guide to fishing in the region to nightlife guides, it's all there.
In this blog, I will bring you our top 5 Mexican restaurants in the Destin area to check out. Get ready to explore tacos, tamales, and margaritas that will make your visit even more flavorful!
1. PEPITO'S MEXICAN RESTAURANT
Classic Family Favorite
Pepito's Mexican Restaurant has been a local favorite along the Emerald Coast for over 21 years. With locations in Miramar Beach, Destin, Fort Walton Beach, and Bluewater Bay, it's a go-to spot for both tourists and locals. They pride themselves on fresh ingredients and daily scratch-made dishes. From hand-rolled tamales to fresh guacamole and salsa, the flavors are authentic and full of care.
Highlights
- Fresh, scratch-made Mexican dishes daily
- Handmade tamales and freshly prepared salsas
- Wide menu including fajitas, quesadillas, burritos, and flautas
What People Are Saying
A great dinner
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Great food, excellent service. Fresh, large portions and open until 10! If this is a chain, it means that I can visit multiple locations as I travel. I definitely recommend giving this a try! "
2. BURRITO DEL SOL
Baja-Style Mexican by the Beach
What began as a food truck on the Destin Harbor is now a relaxed spot for Baja-style Mexican cuisine. With locations in Destin and Fort Walton Beach, Burrito Del Sol offers a cozy atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating. Their smaller menu packs a punch with flavorful tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and nachos. Don't miss their out-of-this-world Taco Salad!
Highlights
- Baja-style Mexican flavors
- Indoor and outdoor seating
- Happy hour weekdays from 4–6 pm
What People Are Saying
Great food and atmosphere
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Tacos, nachos, chips and salsa, and skinny margarita were all great! This is honestly the best food we have had in the area this week. Will definitely return when we vacation here again!"
3. Mezcal Mexican Grill
Upscale Mexican With a Coastal Twist
Located in The Seascape Towne Centre in Miramar Beach, Mezcal Mexican Grill offers a refined take on Mexican cuisine with a coastal Southern twist. From tacos and tapas to burgers and burritos, there's something for every palate. Enjoy live music and signature cocktails at their tiki bar while soaking in the relaxed vibe.
Highlights
- Upscale Mexican dining with Southern influences
- Outdoor tiki bar with local live entertainment
- Wide menu including tapas, tacos, and burritos
What People Are Saying
Great place!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"The experience was great! Our server was attentive, the food was great, atmosphere was good, and the price was perfect. Will definitely be back."
4. CANTINA LAREDO
Mexico City Flavors in Sandestin
For a Mexico City-inspired experience, Cantina Laredo in Grand Boulevard is a must. Their menu is a fusion of modern and traditional Mexican cuisine, featuring dishes like top-shelf guacamole, chili con queso, and a variety of tacos and fajitas. The extensive drink list makes it perfect for a lively night out.
Highlights
- Modern and traditional Mexican dishes
- Variety of dips, tacos, enchiladas, and burritos
- Expansive drink menu with top-shelf options
What People Are Saying
Delicious family evening.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Cantina Laredo was outstanding. We were seated right away. The drinks were generous, excellent and not too expensive. My wife and I just moved back to the States after living for 17 years in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. This food would have been a big hit in San Miguel. We would difinitely return often if it was in our town."
5. Burritacos
Authentic Mexican Grab-and-Go
A true hidden gem, Burritacos is located inside an Exxon gas station on Highway 98. Don't let the location fool you—this spot serves some of the most authentic Mexican food in Destin, inspired by the flavors of Chihuahua. The food is fresh, made from scratch daily, and perfect for a grab-and-go meal.
Highlights
- Authentic Mexican fare in an unexpected spot
- Freshly made burritos, tacos, tamales, and chilaquiles
- Ideal for a quick stop or takeout
What People Are Saying
Fast authentic Mexican
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Don't let the fact that it's in a gas station stop you from coming. This is REAL Mexican food. A few tables inside and picnic tables outside. I ordered 2 breakfast burritos and tacos and they were amazing."
Emerald Coast: A Beachfront Haven Like No Other
With so much to explore, and endless natural beauty to experience the best Florida has to offer, the Emerald Coast will definitely fulfill your craving for a fun-filled vacation.
At RealJoy Vacations, we go the extra mile to make your Emerald Coast getaway truly extraordinary. Your accommodation should match the beauty and magic of this Florida treasure, and our goal is to provide a 5-star coastal living experience during your stay.