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 and 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 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.
From Jalisco, Mexico to the White Mountains
Together, these restaurants offer 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.
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!)
- Casamigos Mexican Restaurant also in North Conway offers traditional Mexican favorites and has a varied selection of vegetarian options.
- 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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