Discover Long Island’s Hidden Mexican Restaurants

Despite their colorful food and lively atmosphere, some Long Island Mexican restaurants aren’t always easy to spot from the street. Housed in unassuming buildings or nestled in shopping centers, the following five Mexican eateries are too good not to taco ’bout.

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Taqueria Cielito Lindo, Riverhead

It’s easy to pass this small family-owned restaurant without paying much attention. After one visit, however, you’ll keep stopping by during trips to the North Fork. The food is fresh, the chips are warm and the Mexican sodas are plenty. Try the al pastor tacos (pork with pineapple) for a taste of paradise. Phone: 631-591-0732 | Address: 29 E Main St Click to go

Tocolo Cantina, Garden City

Located in the Gallery at Westbury Plaza, this chic cantina can be easy to miss. Inside the vibe is contemporary with encaustic tile, copper walls and a bar in the center of the room. The cocktails are another plus with the likes of margaritas, sangrias and a large selection of premium tequilas and mezcals. Start the meal with an order of yucateco guacamole complete with hass avocado, mango, habañero chile, red onion, bell pepper, cilantro and house-made warm chips. From there it’s hard to make a wrong choice with a slew of tacos, tender meats and steak, chicken or shrimp fajitas. Phone: 516-222-0060 | Address: 920 Old Country Rd Click to go

Oaxaca Mexican Restaurant, Huntington

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image: facebook.com/pg/oaxacamexicanfood

The space may be small, but the authentic Mexican cuisine makes up for it. Between the generous size and tasteful presentation, the arroz con pollo (shredded Mexican style all white meat chicken breast served on a bed of rice and vegetables) is a favorite for being “moist and flavorful.” Another standout is the quesadillas that can be filled with cheese, veggies, chorizo, beef, shrimp or steak. The colorful decor and over-sized margaritas add to the fun vibes. Phone: 631-547-1232 | Address: 385 New York Ave Click to go

Bubba’s Burrito Bar, Islip

Adorned with local art and surf scenes, this counter-serve spot has a wild rep for its baby-sized burritos. Though there’s usually a wait, it tends to be worth it (and even better when you bring a friend to hold a table!). Customers love the brotato (marinated steak, fried potatoes, onion rings, cheese and bacon in a bayou sauce) and the land and sea (marinated steak, grilled shrimp, and rice topped with a baja sauce). Phone: 631-650-6333 | Address: 513 Main St Click to go

Blue Tortilla Fresh Mexican Grille, Selden

Homemade salsa—straight from the unlimited salsa bar—is one of the main draws at this village gem. Another: the place doesn’t go light on the chips. Whether it’s dine-in or take out, favorites range from the rice bowls to the empanadas with buffalo chicken or chili meat. Phone: 631-451-0100 | Address: 1070 Middle Country Rd Click to go