For anyone craving the comforting and vibrant flavors of Mexico, especially when you’re away from home, finding authentic and delicious “Mexican Food Around Me” becomes a top priority. Moving to a new place, like attending Harvard University, can make you miss those familiar tastes. Luckily, the Harvard and Greater Boston area offers a diverse range of Mexican food options to satisfy your cravings, from quick bites to more traditional experiences. Let’s dive into a comprehensive guide to some of the best spots for mexican food near you.
Harvard Square Staples: Felipe’s vs. El Jefe’s
The debate rages on in Harvard Square: Felipe’s or El Jefe’s? Both are conveniently located and popular among students, but offer distinct experiences for those seeking mexican food around me.
Felipe’s Taqueria: Quick Bites & Churro Heaven
If you’re after a no-frills, authentic experience, Felipe’s is a solid choice. Known for their budget-friendly $5 burritos, Felipe’s is a go-to spot for a quick and satisfying meal, especially after late-night study sessions. While the burritos are a staple, the real star at Felipe’s are the churros. Fresh, warm, and perfectly sweet, they are an absolute must-try. Felipe’s is also a popular catering option for student groups, so keep an eye out for free burrito and nacho opportunities!
El Jefe’s Taqueria: Quantity & Late-Night Cravings
For those with a bigger appetite, El Jefe’s offers generous portions reminiscent of home-style cooking. While slightly pricier than Felipe’s, the sheer volume of food is impressive. El Jefe’s also boasts an extensive hot sauce selection, allowing you to customize your meal to your spice preference. A standout item is their horchata, which many consider the closest to authentic horchata you can find near Harvard. El Jefe’s is also open late, making it a perfect spot for late-night mexican food around me.
Food Truck Finds: Tenoch Food Truck
Food trucks can be a hit or miss when searching for authentic mexican food. However, Tenoch Food Truck, a regular fixture at the Science Center Plaza, is a delightful exception.
While Tenoch is on the pricier side for food trucks, the taste is surprisingly authentic, often compared to the flavors found at taco trucks back home. They operate on a cash-only basis, but the torta de carnitas is well worth a trip to the ATM. You can usually find Tenoch at the Science Center Plaza on Tuesdays and Thursdays, making it ideal for a #TacoTuesday fix when looking for mexican food around me. Harvard’s Omni app can help you track the daily food truck schedule.
Venture Out to East Boston: Taqueria Jalisco
For a truly immersive and authentic mexican food experience, a trip to East Boston’s Taqueria Jalisco is highly recommended. Located near Chelsea, this family-owned restaurant is a bit of a journey from Harvard, but well worth the effort.
Stepping into Taqueria Jalisco is like stepping into a vibrant piece of Mexico. The restaurant is decorated with bright colors and cultural objects, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The focus, however, is undoubtedly on the food.
The menu features classic dishes made with care and authentic flavors. From tacos and tamales to flavorful rice and beans, everything at Taqueria Jalisco is prepared with love. The salsas are spicy and the restaurant also offers delicious Mexican pastries, completing the authentic experience. A visit to Taqueria Jalisco is not just a meal; it’s an outing that takes you outside the “Harvard bubble” and into a genuine taste of Mexico when searching for exceptional mexican food around me.
Finding great mexican food around me in the Harvard area is definitely achievable. Whether you opt for the convenience of Harvard Square, the food truck scene, or a venture to East Boston, your cravings for authentic Mexican flavors can be satisfied. Explore these options and discover your own favorite spots for mexican food near you!
