Viva México: The Mexican restaurants we love in the southern suburbs

El Catrin in Glyfada has written its own story in the Athens Riviera over the last eight years, establishing Mexican cuisine as an everyday, fun and accessible experience. It’s one of those places that immediately puts you in a family-style mindset: big dishes in the middle, everyone trying everything, flavours for all, whether it’s families with children, couples wanting something relaxed, or large groups of friends. Kid-friendly, warm and unpretentious, it has become a favourite habit for anyone seeking good, comforting Mexican food.

On the menu, tacos take centre stage – and especially every Tuesday, during the popular Taco Tuesday, they come at lower prices, ideal for trying many different kinds. The chicken quesadillas are one of the signature dishes, the unique salads bring fresher touches, while the Brazilian skewers add a street-food dimension that fits perfectly with the concept.

The atmosphere has the feel of an authentic, cosy cantina style, with two distinct spaces and colours that take you out of your everyday routine for a while. Prices remain accessible, portions are generous, and of course no visit to El Catrin is complete without one of their frozen margaritas: lemon, strawberry or spicy for the more daring.

Pueblo Chido in Nea Smyrni wins you over first of all with its impressive “set”. A unique, warm space that resembles a Latin American neighbourhood and is ideal for any time of day and any kind of company: families, couples, friends, even those who want something quick but truly good. Here, the philosophy is clear: traditional Mexican flavours made with motherly love and excellent ingredients, with no compromises. That’s why it has been so loved in the neighbourhood.

On the menu, the chicken chimichanga stands out, wrapped in a tortilla with cheddar, pico de gallo and a delicious avocado ranch that ties the whole dish together. But there’s something even more special: yuca root. It’s served with a fried egg on top, coriander oil and tajín that gives the necessary tang. If you didn’t know you’d ordered yuca, you’d swear you were eating the best “fries” in the area. The skewers are tucked into pita with rice, creating that comfort street food you want to nibble on without any restraint.

For the finale (or the beginning), there’s the classic, proper margarita, as well as a signature butter-vodka cocktail that scores high on originality. Pueblo Chido isn’t just a Mexican restaurant. It’s a home with real, heartfelt cooking that makes you want to return.

Vibrant murals, cushions with Mexican patterns, colourful dishes that look like they’ve come straight out of a celebration in Mexico City – Abrazo puts you in the mood instantly. A space full of liveliness and energy, inviting you to sit, relax and enjoy a journey through the flavours of Latin America.

The menu is exactly what the name suggests. A “hug” of comfort and intensity. The nachos with chili con carne are the perfect way to start, with melted cheese, spicy minced beef and all the right toppings. Next to them, the guacamole is served fresh and cool, ready for guilt-free dipping. If you want something more filling, the beef tacos are a must: slow-cooked beef, guacamole and pico de gallo in every bite, perfectly balancing spicy and refreshing flavours.

And of course, none of this is complete without one or even two margaritas. Classic or with a twist, they’re made with care and served ice cold, just as they should be. At Abrazo, every night feels like a fiesta – with food, music and a vibe that makes you want to stay a little longer.

Amigos means friends, and that’s exactly how you feel every time you walk through its doors. From Nea Smyrni to Glyfada, this beloved Mexican spot has become a meeting point for those who love the bold colours, aromas and flavours of a real fiesta. The atmosphere is always cheerful, with bright colours, smiles and music that immediately puts you in the mood for something tasty and unpretentious.

On the menu you’ll find all the classic treats of Mexican cuisine: flavour-packed burritos, tacos in endless combinations, fresh and refreshing salads, and of course churros with chocolate for the sweetest finish. Everything is prepared with freshly cooked ingredients and served with that friendly, unpretentious service that makes all the difference.

And because no Mexican experience is complete without a glass of tequila or a frozen margarita, Amigos has elevated the cocktail game. Whether you prefer the classic lime or a more playful frozen version. Here, you don’t just come for food, but for the feeling that you’re at your own little Mexican party, every day of the week.

Kyprou 65, Glyfada
Meg. Alexandrou 70, Nea Smyrni

Pajarito Athens is another Mexican spot we love, in Ilioupoli, with irresistible flavours for every taste. You’ll find all the classic options, like enchiladas, tacos and fajitas, as well as the hard-to-find dessert tres leches, a cake soaked in three kinds of milk.