Mexican with the Minis: 7 Spots that Sizzle

Few cuisines are more kid-friendly than Tex-Mex food.  The fact that chips and salsa usually arrive at your table seconds upon your arrival often makes Mexican dining your best bet when the familia is famished. Plus, there’s a good chance your kids already addicted to cheese dip. With so many Mexican restaurants dotting the metro landscape, many options and styles abound. Here’s a round-up of some of the most kid-friendly Mexican Atlanta has to offer.

Caramba’s
It’s all about family at this family-owned Mexican eatery. Old-timers may remember Caramba from its Morningside days (it opened in 1988). Now relocated near downtown, the Prieto family is still serving up enchiladas, burritos, tacos and delicious stuffed poblano peppers with care. The kid’s menu offers something for even the pickiest eaters. Mom tip: the margaritas are excelente!

Address: 349 Decatur Street SE
Phone: 404-525-0525
Online: carambacafe.com

Jalisco
Located on bustling Peachtree, this long-time family favorite can run a wait, but the fresh salsa and spicy queso is well worth it, we hear. The restaurant, which does not have a website, features all the favorites – burritos, quesadillas, tamales and more. Parents and kids will appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and kids’ menu choices.

Address: 2337 Peachtree Road NE
Phone: 404-233-9244

Matador Cantina
This family friendly Mexican joint in Oakhurst Village offers burritos, tacos and an eclectic assortment of tacos – from tofu to lobster to pulled pork. Hearty baskets of chips and salsa are sure to keep the kids busy while mom and dad peruse the tequila list. Tuesday is the best night to go as kids eat free between 5-7 p.m. with an adult!

Address: 350 Mead Road, Decatur
Phone: 404-377-0808
Online: matadorcantina.com

Mezcalito’s
With locations in Decatur and Grant Park, Mezcalito’s has quickly become a favorite of intown families looking for a tasty Mexican meal. The kids menu is focused on quesadillas, but more adventurous young eaters can easily make a meal off one of their a la carte tacos and a side of fried plantains. Try visiting on the weekends for brunch – including pumpkin seed pancakes!

Address: 304 Oakland Avenue
Phone: 678-705-7008

Address: 653 East Lake Avenue, Decatur
Phone: 404-687-0007

Online: mezcalitoscantina.com

Nuevo Laredo
Long considered one of the city’s best, this once hidden gem is usually packed out. The food is amazing and worth the hassle, however. Arrive early (like 5 p.m.) or try a weekend lunch to avoid crowds and don’t go too hungry. The menu offers all the usual suspects but also some house specialties like Chicken Mole and spicy Steak Diablo. On the kid’s menu, there’s quesadillas, burritos and tacos sure to please.

Address: 1495 Chattahoochee Avenue
Phone: 404-352-9009
Online:  nuevolaredocantina.com

La Parrilla
This regional chain– with several locations across the metro area — is a kid favorite for three reasons: crayons, balloons and a diverse kid menu. Say for instance you have a tiny Mexican food hater in your midst – well, they can have a hamburger.  The Mexican food lovers will be quite happy with the variety of Tex-Mex favorites.

Address: 1801 Howell Mill Road #420
Phone: 404-603-9091

Check online for other Atlanta locations: laparilla.com

Uncle Julio’s
OK, so it’s big, flashy and a chain, but families love Uncle Julio’s with good reason. The main reason: the tortilla machine that transforms balls of dough into warm, billowy tortillas right before your eyes. Combine that with high chairs, crayons and all the kid fixings, and you’re set for a happy meal. The Tex Mex food and grilled specialties as great too!

Address: 1860 Peachtree Road NE
Phone: 404-350-6767

Where do you enjoy Mexican with your familia? Tell us below!

—Rachel Quartarone

Photos courtesy of Addy C. via Yelp, Frank L. via Yelp, Daniel B. via Yelp, Caramba’s via Facebook and Mezcalito’s via Facebook