As the weather starts getting cooler, there are few things that hit the spot like a plate of spicy food. Although most cuisines take pride in a spicy dish or two, Mexican fare consistently utilizes peppers and spices to give dishes a little extra kick. Lucky for us, Jackson has plenty of restaurants with south of the border flavors ranging from informal lunch spots to sit-down gourmet affairs. Dishing is here to point you in the right direction to make sure your appetite for spice is satisfied.
Wet Carnitas Burrito at Picas
Picas: Featuring baja style food, this popular west Jackson restaurant has a rabid following. Known for their tacos, burritos, and margaritas, it is hard to go wrong at this popular hotspot. If you are looking for something a little more substantial, try one of their wet burritos. Smothered in a chipotle cream sauce, it is sure to satisfy even the biggest appetites. Stop by from 4 to 6 p.m. and enjoy happy hour prices on beer, margaritas, and select appetizers as well.
Merry Piglets: Piglet’s is Jackson’s oldest Mexican restaurant for good reason. This downtown staple boasts a large menu filled with classics. The family friendly atmosphere, quick service, and large portions keep locals and tourists coming through the door throughout the year. Although it is hard to pick just one dish that stands out, their flame grilled fajitas are a personal favorite. Keep up to date on food and off-season specials via their website or Facebook
Enchiladas from El Tequila
El Tequila: This spot is one that I am sure we have all seen (being located at the busiest intersection in the entire state) but might not have tried yet. They opened up last year and serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The best value has to be their breakfast burritos that they serve until 10:30 a.m. Stop by on your way to work or out to the village.
El Abuelitos: This is another great option if you are looking for a menu full of crowd pleasing options. Perpetually busy during the summer and winter months, it pays to call ahead for a reservation, especially if you are with a group. All their menu options are great as take out as well, you just won’t be able to enjoy it with one of their signature jumbo margaritas. Their enchiladas Zuisas are a personal favorite of mine.
Tijuana: This Mexican restaurant located in the K-Mart Plaza usually flys under peoples radar. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. they serve your classic dishes as well as some family recipe influenced favorites like mole enchiladas or el pastor cemitas. Although not quite as adventourous as some of the dishes they offer, my personal favorite is their chicken fajitas served on a sizzling skillet tableside.
Taqueria Los Nopolitos: This small restaurant behind lucky’s market is open for lunch during the week. Although I have not personally been there, I have it under pretty good authority that their torta milanesa is one of the best in the valley.
Taqueria Sanchez: Sanchez is one of my favorite lunch options in Jackson. The quaint downtown restaurant is known for their tortas. Served on a wonderfully flakey Telera roll with avocado, cheese, mayo, and jalapenos. Choose from a wide range of filllings, I am pretty fond of both the arabe or pollo. You might not know this, but they are a BYOB establishment as well, making an affordable weekday dinner option.
Streetfood at the Stagecoach: This Wilson favorite prides itself on offering the best items from a variety of cuisines. One of the best options that they offer has to be their tacos. Choose from carne asada, al pastor pork, chicken or fish. Served with the traditional accompaniments, pick up 3 for $10.
Some of the great drink options at Hatch
Hatch: If you are looking for Mexican flavors with some gourmet flair, check out Hatch. Their dishes like the Snake River Farms grilled tenderloin or bison sausage a la plancha are a little different than your traditional fare but equally as delicious. With some great offseason specials on food and drinks and a full on taco menu for those feeling not as adventurous, Hatch is a great place to stop for dinner.
