If you’re searching for where to find authentic and mouthwatering Mexican food in New England, look no further than the White Mountain region of New Hampshire. Here, nestled amidst scenic landscapes and charming small towns, you’ll find a growing dining scene where Mexican cuisine is finally getting its long-overdue recognition.
This culinary renaissance is thanks in large part to Jesús Guzmán, the visionary entrepreneur behind Fiesta Jalisco, La Casita, and the newly opened El Reparo. With passion, persistence, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity, Guzmán has brought the vibrant flavors of Mexico to the heart of New England, much to the delight of locals and visitors alike.
A Taste of Home
Growing up in Los Angeles, I was surrounded by my father’s Mexican family, where food was not just nourishment but love, tradition, and celebration. Grandma Rosa’s kitchen was a haven filled with the aroma of enchiladas, tamales, and albondigas. Each dish was crafted with care, served with warmth, and shared with laughter among family.
Fast forward decades later, and I now co-own The Inn at Oxbow Acres, a luxury bed and breakfast and event venue located in Milan, New Hampshire. For years, I searched in vain for the kind of authentic Mexican food I grew up with. While there were a few Tex-Mex options around, none came close to recreating the flavors of my childhood. That is until the White Mountain culinary scene began to change, and Jesús Guzmán entered the picture.
Meet Jesús Guzmán
Jesús Guzmán’s story is deeply inspiring. Born in Degollado, Jalisco, Mexico, Guzmán was raised with a strong work ethic and a deep love for his heritage. At just 17, he left Mexico to seek opportunities in the United States, first working in construction and later transitioning to the restaurant industry because meals were a perk, and restaurants had air conditioning. Despite initial struggles, Guzmán took every chance to learn the ins and outs of the business, moving across states and working tirelessly to save money and perfect his craft.
By 2012, Guzmán took a leap of faith and opened Fiesta Jalisco in North Conway, New Hampshire. The restaurant quickly gained a reputation for its delicious and authentic cuisine, becoming a local favorite and proving that there was indeed a hunger for authentic Mexican food in New England.
Building on the success of Fiesta Jalisco, Guzmán went on to open La Casita in Berlin and the newer El Reparo in Glen. Formerly known as The Glen Junction Restaurant, the train themed, family owned restaurant served American home-style cooking. There's acutally many similarities to the business model, and the home cooking is still North American, but with south of the border recipes.
La Casita The Gem of Berlin
When La Casita opened its doors, I was eager, yet skeptical, What initially caught my attention was the name. To me, "casita" had always been my father’s discreet way of saying "bathroom" (thanks to my family’s very particular brand of modesty). Once I got past my amusement at the name, though, my husband and I decided to give it a shot to see if it could pass my “Grandma Rosa Test.” From the first bite, I was sold! The menu at La Casita is expansive with nearly 80 entrees and 10 appetizers to choose from. Favorites that remind me of my childhood include the Molcajete, featuring grilled steak, chicken, and shrimp in a tangy tomatillo sauce, and the Enchiladas Acapulco, which features corn tortillas filled with a savory shrimp mixture, inspired by the coastal flavors of Acapulco. The enchiladas are topped with a creamy, rich sauce. And the Tacos Al Pastor? They're a fantastic blend of guajillo, spicy marinated pork, and pineapple served with a fresh tomatillo sauce. SO good!
For those who enjoy Tex-Mex ( a little less spicy and a lot more cheesy), La Casita also delivers, with popular options like Burrito California and Quesadilla Popeye's. The portions are generous, the ingredients are fresh, and the service feels like home. The bar has gained a noteworthy reputation as well - La Casita was voted WMUR's "Best Margaritas in New Hampshire!"
The restaurant’s colorful décor and welcoming atmosphere make it a place where families and friends can create their own special memories. I often recommend La Casita to guests at our inn, and they return raving about their meals (and grateful for our refrigerators to store their leftovers).This fabulous restaurant is close enough to The Inn at Oxbow Acres to cater events. We recently held a 40th Birthday party with a La Casita taco bar, and it was a hit!
From Jalisco, Mexico to the White Mountains
Together, these restaurants form a trifecta of exceptional Mexican dining experiences that bring the vibrant flavors of Jalisco to the White Mountains. What’s most inspiring about Jesús isn’t just his culinary expertise, but his story of resilience and ambition. Guided by his deep love for his heritage and a strong sense of community, he managed to turn humble beginnings into a local restaurant empire. Each restaurant brings not only authentic Mexican flavors but a sense of Latino hospitality that reminds diners like me of home.
It’s also a family affair. Brothers, in-laws, and even Jesús’s wife all play a vital role in ensuring the success of the restaurants. Their story is a testament to the power of family, culture, and a relentless commitment to providing a memorable dining experience.
The Hidden Gems
While Guzmán’s restaurants lead the pack, there are other notable mentions for Mexican-inspired dining in the area.
- Luchador’s Tacos in North Conway, known for its excellent burritos and street tacos, serves as a solid option for quick, casual meals, especially after a day of perusing the outlet stores and quaint establishments in this bustling town. Pair your meal with a bottled Jarritos soda (the mango flavor is a must-try!).
- Exile Burrito in Berlin offered tasty tacos and loaded burritos along with American cuisine before its recent closure. Thankfully, the owners are planning to reopen, with the addition of a vintage arcade. Follow their Facebook page for updates!
These spots prove that while New England may not have the abundance of Mexican cuisine seen on the West Coast, there’s a growing appreciation for it.
A Culinary Journey Worth Taking
The next time you find yourself in the White Mountain region, treat yourself to the incredible Mexican restaurants this area has to offer. Whether you’re savoring authentic enchiladas at El Reparo, enjoying a margarita at La Casita, or exploring the flavors of Fiesta Jalisco, you’ll discover a taste of Mexico that’s worth the trip.
At The Inn at Oxbow Acres, we’re thrilled to see how Mexican cuisine is thriving in Northern New Hampshire. We proudly recommend these restaurants to our guests, inviting them to enjoy not just food, but a connection to rich traditions and warm hospitality.
Looking for more dining recommendations near the inn? Contact us anytime or visit our blog for more insider tips on the best White Mountain dining.
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