The Canadian Guide to Ordering at a Mexican Restaurant (Without Getting Lost in the Menu)

Confused by tacos, burritos, or enchiladas?

Discover our fun guide to ordering authentic Mexican food at Cactus Mexican Kitchen in Oshawa, Ontario.

So you’ve walked into a Mexican restaurant… Now what?

Our Menu

You open the menu, and there it is — a colorful list of words that sound delicious… but maybe a little confusing. Tacos, burritos, enchiladas, quesadillas, sopes, tamales…

If you’ve ever felt unsure about what to order at a Mexican restaurant, don’t worry — you’re not alone! At Cactus Mexican Kitchen in Oshawa, we’ve seen it all: the curious first-timers, the taco lovers, and the adventurous eaters who want to try everything.

This is your friendly Canadian guide to ordering Mexican food like a local — so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy every bite (without secretly googling what’s in your taco).

Tacos — Small, simple, and full of flavor

Let’s start with the classic: the taco. A taco is a soft corn or flour tortilla folded around your choice of filling — beef, chicken, pork, or even grilled veggies.

Think of it as Mexico’s answer to the sandwich — simple, versatile, and perfect any time of day.

At Cactus Mexican Kitchen, we serve authentic tacos inspired by the streets of Guanajuato — filled with flavor, topped with fresh salsa, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

Pro tip: Order three (trust us, one is never enough).

Burritos — The comfort food you can hold

If tacos are the snack, burritos are the meal. They’re large flour tortillas wrapped around rice, beans, meat, cheese, and salsa — then grilled or toasted to perfection.

It’s a full Mexican experience rolled into one. Warm, hearty, and perfect for when you want something satisfying.

Try this: Our house burrito, filled with slow-cooked beef and our homemade refried beans — a local favorite in Oshawa.

Enchiladas — The saucy ones

If you like comfort food, you’ll love enchiladas. They’re rolled tortillas filled with meat, cheese, or beans — then baked under a generous layer of red, green, or creamy cheese sauce.

They’re soft, warm, and melt-in-your-mouth good. Perfect for those chilly Ontario evenings when you need a little Mexican sunshine on your plate.

Pair it with: Mexican rice and a cold margarita. Thank us later.

Quesadillas — Mexico’s answer to the grilled cheese

Simple, cheesy, and loved by everyone. A quesadilla is a tortilla filled with melted cheese — often with extras like chicken, mushrooms, or chorizo — and then toasted until golden.

Crispy on the outside, gooey inside. It’s the perfect choice if you’re sharing with friends or trying Mexican food for the first time.

Bonus tip: Add guacamole. Always add guacamole.

Sopes & Tamales — For the true food explorers

If you want to go beyond the classics, these are must-tries:

• Sopes: Small, thick corn patties topped with beans, meat, lettuce, crema, and cheese. Kind of like a mini open-faced taco — but heartier.

• Tamales: Corn dough filled with meat or cheese, wrapped in a corn husk, and steamed. They’re soft, comforting, and full of tradition — a true taste of Mexican home cooking.

At Cactus, both dishes are prepared the traditional way, using family recipes passed down from our grandmothers in Guanajuato.

Don’t be afraid of the spice!

We promise: not all Mexican food is spicy. At Cactus Mexican Kitchen, we adjust the heat to your comfort — from mild and flavorful to a little fiery (if you’re feeling brave).

Just ask your server — we’ll guide you so you get the perfect balance of flavor and spice.

The Cactus Experience

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Whether you’re here for your first taco or your tenth burrito, our mission is simple: To make you feel at home — like you just stepped into a Sunday family meal in Mexico.

At Cactus Mexican Kitchen in Oshawa, every dish tells a story, every flavor carries a memory, and every guest becomes part of our extended family.

So next time you’re wondering what to order at a Mexican restaurant, remember: Start with your heart, trust your cravings, and let the flavors of Mexico do the rest. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Mexican Food (FAQ)

1. What’s the difference between a taco and a burrito?

Tacos are smaller, open-faced tortillas filled with meat, vegetables, or cheese — often eaten by hand in a few bites. Burritos are larger and wrapped, with rice, beans, and fillings rolled together in a soft flour tortilla — a full meal in itself.

2. Is all Mexican food spicy?

Not at all! Authentic Mexican cuisine focuses on flavor, not just heat. At Cactus Mexican Kitchen, we adjust the spice level to your taste — from mild and savory to a bit fiery if you love a challenge.

3. What should I order if I’m new to Mexican food?

A safe (and delicious) start: try tacos al pastor, quesadillas, or enchiladas. They’re traditional, full of flavor, and perfect for first-time visitors looking for an authentic experience.

4. Do you serve vegetarian or vegan Mexican dishes?

Yes! Many traditional dishes are naturally vegetarian, like our bean tacos, veggie burritos, and cheese enchiladas. We’re happy to customize your meal — just let us know your preferences when ordering.

5. What drinks go best with Mexican food?

Try our classic margaritas, agua de horchata (sweet rice and cinnamon drink), or Jarritos Mexican sodas. Each complements the bold, fresh flavors of Mexican cuisine beautifully.

6. Where can I find authentic Mexican food in Oshawa?

Right here! Visit Cactus Mexican Kitchen, your local spot for authentic Mexican food in Oshawa, inspired by the traditions and recipes of Guanajuato, Mexico. Every dish is made fresh, with love and family flavor.

7. What’s the most popular dish at Cactus Mexican Kitchen?

Our customers love the tacos de birria and enchiladas verdes — both rich in flavor and perfect for sharing. But honestly? Every dish here has a fan base of its own!

8. Can kids enjoy Mexican food too?

Absolutely! Our menu includes mild, kid-friendly options like quesadillas, chicken tacos, and rice & beans plates. It’s a family-friendly experience — perfect for all ages.

Pro Tip for First-Time Visitors

If you’re visiting us for the first time, ask your server for our “Cactus Sampler” — it’s a great way to try a little bit of everything and discover your favorite Mexican flavors!