Alamexo A fresh take on Mexican food from award-winning chef Matthew Lake whose New York Rosa Mexicano was “the gold standard.” More upscale than a taco joint, but nowhere near white tablecloth, this bright, inviting cafe offers tableside guacamole. The rest of the menu, from margaritas to mole, is just as fresh and immediate. 268 State St., SLC, 801-779-4747. $$
Blue Poblano An import from Provo, this great little spot serves hugely great tacos. And burritos. Recently remodeled and expanded; now with a liquor license. 473 E. 300 South, SLC, 801-883-9078 $
Chunga’s These tacos al pastor are the real deal. Carved from a big pineapple-marinated hunk, the meat is folded in delicate masa tortillas with chopped pineapple, onion and cilantro. 180 S. 900 West, SLC, 801-328-4421. $
Frida Bistro Frida is one of the finest things to happen to Salt Lake dining, ever. This is not your typical tacos/tamales menu—it represents the apex of still too little-known Mexican cuisine, elegant and sophisticated and as complex as French food. Plus, there’s a nice margarita menu. 545 W. 700 South, SLC, 801-983-6692. $$
Lone Star Taqueria Lone Star serves a burrito that’s a meal in itself, whether you choose basic bean and cheese or a special. 2265 E. Fort Union Blvd., SLC,
801-944-2300. $
Red Iguana Both locations are a blessing in this City of Salt, which still has mysteriously few good Mexican restaurants. Mole is what you want. 736 W. North Temple, SLC, 801-322-1489; 866 W. South Temple, SLC, 801-214-6050. $ – $$
Rio Grande Café As bustling now as it was when it was still a train station, this is a pre-Jazz favorite and great for kids, too. Dishes overflow the plate and fill the belly. 270 S. Rio Grande St., SLC, 801-364-3302. $
Taco Taco A tiny, charming little taqueria, perfect for pick-up and sunny days. Owned by neighboring Cannella’s. 208 E. 500 South, SLC,
801-355-8518. $
Taqueria 27 Salt Lake needs more Mexican food, and Todd Gardiner is here to provide it. Artisan tacos (try the duck confit), inventive guacamole and lots of tequila in a spare urban setting. 1615. S. Foothill Dr., SLC, 385-259-0712; 4670 Holladay Village Plaza (2300 E.), 801-676-9706; 149 E. 200 South, SLC, (801-259-0940). $$