5 Best Regional Mexican Restaurants In East Nashville

5 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Blanco Cocina + Cantina - Nashville restaurant

1. Blanco Cocina + Cantina - Nashville

4.8

Exceptional(1272)

$$$$

• Regional mexican • Downtown / Sobro

Booked 76 times today

Blanco Cocina + Cantina - Nashville is a vibrant gem in the heart of Downtown Nashville, renowned for its extraordinary Cocktail Bar experience. Patrons rave about the “amazing” margaritas, with the watermelon and spicy varieties often called out as the best they've ever had. The ambiance at Blanco is lively and relaxing, making it the perfect spot to unwind with friends. The bartenders are praised for their skill and creativity, ensuring each cocktail is crafted to perfection. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Blanco offers an authentic and unforgettable cocktail experience that keeps guests coming back for more.

A photo of Lona by Chef Richard Sandoval – Nashville restaurant

2. Lona by Chef Richard Sandoval – Nashville

4.1

Excellent(183)

$$$$

• Regional mexican • Downtown / Sobro

Booked 8 times today

Lona is a dynamic modern Mexican restaurant brought to life by the creative collaboration of renowned chefs Richard Sandoval and Pablo Salas and aims to redefine the Mexican dining experience by combining traditional flavors with contemporary techniques and artistic presentation.At Lona, guests will be immersed in a lively atmosphere that pays homage to Mexico's rich culinary heritage while embracing the spirit of innovation. The menu showcases a fusion of regional Mexican cuisines, featuring an array of bold and authentic flavors. From delectable street food favorites to refined dishes inspired by ancient recipes, Lona offers a culinary journey that celebrates the diversity and complexity of Mexican gastronomy.Serving dinner daily and weekend brunch.

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3. Maiz De La Vida

4.8

Exceptional(606)

$$$$

• Regional mexican • The Gulch & North Gulch

Booked 26 times today

Maíz de la Vida in The Gulch offers a lively, modern dining experience rooted in the rich traditions of Mexican cuisine. The space blends bold flavors, vibrant energy, and warm hospitality to create an atmosphere that feels both elevated and welcoming. At the heart of the menu is a deep respect for tradition, most importantly, nixtamalization. The restaurant prepares corn the ancestral way, resulting in fresh, hand-pressed heirloom corn tortillas made daily. Guests can enjoy thoughtfully crafted dishes alongside a curated selection of agave-based cocktails that highlight the depth of Mexico’s most iconic spirits. Grounded in the spirit of community, Maíz de la Vida is a place to gather, connect, and celebrate. Recognized as a James Beard Emerging Chef in 2023 and Best Chef: Southeast Semi-Finalist in 2025, Chef Hernandez and his team deliver a dynamic, authentic approach that honors heritage while evolving tradition.

4. Fonda on 12th

4.8

Exceptional(109)

$$$$

• Regional mexican • Waverly / Melrose / Breeze Hill

Booked 19 times today

Fonda on 12th in Nashville is a vibrant gem that brings authentic Regional Mexican cuisine to the heart of the 12 South neighborhood. Helmed by the acclaimed Chef Roberto Santibañez, this restaurant offers a unique culinary journey with its "elevated Mexican fare" that diners rave about. The menu features small, shareable plates such as Queso Fundido and Wagyu Con Mole de Avellanas, showcasing "fresh and absolutely delicious" ingredients. Guests consistently express their delight, with one reviewer exclaiming, "No other Mexican like this in Nashville!" Fonda on 12th is a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Mexico with a modern twist.

A photo of Cilantro Mexican Grill & Tequila Bar - Gultch restaurant

5. Cilantro Mexican Grill & Tequila Bar - Gultch

4.5

Awesome(2)

$$$$

• Regional mexican • The Gulch & North Gulch

Booked 3 times today

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Mexico right here in Nashville, TN. At Cilantro Mexican Grill, we're dedicated to bringing you the authentic tastes of traditional Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. With two convenient locations in Nashville, we invite you to experience the warmth of our hospitality and the richness of our dishes.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

Best Regional Mexican Restaurants in East Nashville

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5 restaurants available nearby

1. Blanco Cocina + Cantina - Nashville

2. Lona by Chef Richard Sandoval – Nashville

3. Maiz De La Vida

4. Fonda on 12th

5. Cilantro Mexican Grill & Tequila Bar - Gultch

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