We all have those culinary cravings – times when only one type of meal will fit the bill. And all too often for many of us, it’s for Mexican food. Whether you have a hankering for tacos, fajitas, enchiladas, nachos or margaritas, when your appetite has you yearning for some south-of-the-border fare, the Grand Strand has you covered with plenty of excellent Mexican eateries.
Here are the five favorite Myrtle Beach-area Mexican restaurants our guests at The Cottages at North Beach Plantation head for when nothing but a culinary fiesta will do for lunch or dinner:
Margarita’s Mexican Restaurant – As the name might imply, this Mexican eatery on Church Street in Conway is well-known for its margaritas, which are available on the rocks or frozen, in a range of flavors, and with some unique and fun twists – such as the chamoy-rita made with Mexican chamoy sauce, which is often used as a dip for fresh fruit. Popular menu items include the fajitas and the enchiladas.
El Cerro Grande – This Carolinas chain with locations sprinkled throughout the Grand Strand got its start in Wilmington, North Carolina, where members of the Ibarra family started their first U.S. restaurant with inspiration from their roots in the small Mexican mountain town of Degollado, Jalisco. In addition to all the traditional Mexican menu items like nachos, burritos, fajitas and chimichangas, the house specialties include carnitas (slow-simmered pork) and lamb shank in the restaurant’s signature adobado sauce.
Fiesta del Burro Loco – Famous for its all-day Cinco de Mayo bash, which draws big crowds with its live music and outdoor games, this Jason Boulevard establishment has been honored as “Best Mexican Restaurant” and “Best Happy Hour” by the Sun News. Popular menu items include the nachos, stuffed jalapenos and queso, and Burro Loco’s unique specialty items include the Wood-Fired Pizza (available after 4 p.m. and all day Sunday) and the Fiesta Steak, which is grilled to order and brushed with jalapeno butter
Nacho Hippo – With locations at Myrtle Beach’s The Market Common and in North Myrtle Beach, this is a true Grand Strand original. Nacho Hippo is known for its delicious Mexican dishes, including traditional fare like nachos, tacos and quesadillas, but it might be most famous for its huge, 32-ounce Monster cocktails with imaginative flavors like the Tipsy Hippo and the Hip Lemonade. (Smaller and non-alcoholic drinks are also available, of course, for those who will be driving afterward.) Be sure to take a look at the lineup of taco options, as this menu includes some creative creations that you won’t find elsewhere.
Fiesta Mexicana – With a menu created by chef Gabriel Hernandez, this family owned and operated Myrtle Beach restaurant puts its focus on fresh Mexican fare. The menu is loaded with all the favorites like chimichangas, quesadillas, tacos and enchiladas, and the fajitas are a house favorite. Guests also rave about the salsa, and the made-tableside guacamole is definitely worth giving a try.
We know you can work up an appetite while enjoying all the amenities available during your stay at The Cottages at North Beach Plantation, and sometimes only a Mexican feast will satisfy your cravings. Be sure to check out one of these great restaurants on your next Grand Strand vacation – they’re some of the best available on this side of the border.
