Rafa's in Glasgow City

Complete vibe. Burritos class, Quesa’s beautiful and tacos are stunning. BYO (w corkage per head), will be back xo

Down a little hidden lane you’ll find a tiny gem of a place doing tacos and burritos. They have one 8 person table inside where they do a tasting menu on certain days but any other day you just order from the counter and the your food out and eat at one of the wooden tables outside so it’s best when the weather is good. A queue formed while we were there but the wait is definitely worth it! We had 3 tacos for £12 and some chips and guacamole. The food was absolutely delicious! Some of the best tacos I’ve eaten. I throughly recommend this place!

Best Mexican food in Scotland, delicious veggie options

Another fantastic visit to Rafas. 5 stars all the way. The tacos and the barbacoa quesadillas are sublime 👌

Tito rocks. His burrito is the best in the UK, maybe in all of Europe idk

Delicious tacos! The crispy fish and the mushroom tacos were outstanding (tried them as part of their 3 tacos for £12 deal)

crème de la crème of Mexican cuisine

I’m a bit disappointed with Rafa’s lately. Their options are pretty inconsistent (they randomly don’t serve some things on certain days) and they seem to be dropping the ball. For the amount of money that I pay, I expect to receive a decent amount of food - I used to get more quantity for what I paid for a couple of months/years ago, but I feel as if portion sizes are slowly coming down. Not good for what is already quite a pricey place. Not only that, but I remember ordering items with extra guacamole. I did not receive this extra guacamole, despite paying extra for it. It’s a shame, I used to enjoy eating here so much, but it seems as if it’s best days are past.

Best burrito I've had in Glasgow! Would really recommend a visit if you're in the West End. Very accommodating and friendly staff. Swift service and the vibe was nice and cosy.

Nestled in a cozy corner just off Argyle Street lies a hidden gem that's sure to tantalize your taste buds and transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico – Rafa's Mexican restaurant! Oh my god! 🤤 From the moment you step through the door, you're greeted with the irresistible aroma of sizzling spices and the warmth of genuine hospitality. Despite its modest size, Rafa's packs a punch with its mouthwatering menu featuring an array of authentic Mexican delights – from hearty burritos bursting with flavor to crispy tacos filled with succulent meats, and decadent quesadillas oozing with cheese. But it's not just the food that's a feast for the senses – the ambiance at Rafa's is equally delightful. With only two tables in the dining room, including one perfect for an intimate dinner for two and another for larger groups, every visit feels like a special occasion. And if you're lucky enough to snag a seat, you'll be treated to a front-row view of the talented chefs crafting culinary masterpieces right before your eyes. But what truly sets Rafa's apart is its passionate and dedicated staff, who go above and beyond to ensure every guest feels like family. Their genuine smiles and attentive service only add to the overall dining experience, leaving you with a lasting impression of warmth and hospitality. And let's not forget about the queue that forms outside – a testament to the undeniable allure of Rafa's irresistible fare. But fear not, for every moment spent waiting is well worth it once you take that first bite of their impeccably cooked dishes. Rafa's is more than just a meal – it's a culinary journey that will leave you craving more. So whether you're a local looking for your next foodie adventure or a visitor eager to experience the flavors of Mexico in the heart of Glasgow, Rafa's is an absolute must-visit destination. Trust me, you won't be disappointed! -

A gem of delicious food in a hidden lane. All tastes fantastic!!

Not much room for seating indoors, but it didn't matter. Food was amazing and great portion sizes. Staff were really cheery and up for a bit of chat. Great experience!!!

Absolutely fantastic experience, staff are so friendly and knowledgeable about the menu and are happy to help with any questions. Food is also fantastic and the best I’ve had in Glasgow by a mile!

Legit best taco in Europe period

Rafa’s has the BEST burritos and tacos I have ever had in my life. I’ve been there several times, and my personal favourite is the burrito barbacoa. The beef is so tender and juicy, the burrito is big and it makes you so full towards the end. The photo doesn’t do the food justice!! Although Rafa’s is not always open, I definitely recommend planning to visit and try their tacos or burritos at least once, I can guarantee that you wouldn’t regret it.

Food was ok but very over priced. 12 for 3 small tacos. I was in a traditional mexican in Dublin one of the most expensive cities in Europe and paid €11 for 9 tacos. So it was pretty ridiculous what we got charged.

Best burrito ever! The shop is small but they have an amazing quality of food. I'll be back 100%

Hidden gem, got the fish taco and the chicken, great service, cool little place. Great selection of drinks, pineapple jarrito was mint🙌🏻

Tasty burritos (about the only good ones in Glasgow), but the meat isn’t always the best, especially given it’s pretty expensive. Generally pretty decent experience though!

Best place in Glasgow for food, hands down!

oh my GOD. unreal stuff, feel great afterwards. will become a regular

Absolutely fantastic wee place, will definitely be back!

Got a delivery. Food came destroyed, guac was everywhere, had high hopes for here but packaging was really dumb, surely you’d stack nachos boxes on top of each other and put burritos on top of cardboard box lengthways then tie tightly so the bag is secured. Instead there were burritos standing upright and trashed nachos everywhere. Pork has flavour but no body to sauce, random pork juice squirted out the guac covered tin foil, shooting all over me. Grim. What i ate from the nachos were bleak, velveeta type queso really bland and cheap, no flavour, unsavory guac.

If you haven't tried it, it's a must in Glasgow, the new Xmas Burito with duck carnitas is just like Xmas tucked in a blanket!!!! Send it!!!

Best "Mexican" place I've found in 6 years of living in Scotland. Born and raised in California, lived in Texas for years, and from a Mexican household. I can be quite picky when it comes to a taco joint but Rafa's does not disappoint. It is a lot more Texmex or modern Taco place, than hole in the wall taco truck style food, but I've been back multiple times and always left satisfied. The staff is always polite and helpful. The place is often packed and can run out of types of meat so be aware of that if not going close to opening. My only complaint is that their orchata isn't our favourite.

All the food are delicious, highly recommended

No frills Mexican place! Best there is in Glasgow and glad I’ve found this hidden gem. It’s a little cramped with only a couple of tables inside, so I’d recommend ordering to-go. There are benches outside so you could just eat outside if the weather permits

Excellent Taco’s, after Yu Ca Taco, these are the best in town IMHO.

Really interesting little place in a cool location.

For my money the best plate of food in Glasgow. Have been >10 times and never ever disappointed. Massive flavours, lovely staff. The king prawn burrito is best surprised as a near-psychadelic experience. Unbeatable

Unfuckinreal respect to big tito

Im not one to leave reviews but I was so delighted eating at Rafa’s today after seeing it online. I’m from Florida and have found it hard to find authentic good Mexican food in Glasgow but Rafa’s hits the spot. Will definitely be back and will become a staple for us!!

Chorizo Tacos? Are you saying Chorizo Tacos? Don't play around cuz I am super hungry.

Amazing hidden gem in the west end of Glasgow.

Lovely little hatch down a hidden alleyway serving incredible tacos and burritos. Great flavours that pack a punch and you can get messy with. A real gem of Glasgow.

Extremely burnt chicken quesadilla and burrito. Both items are expensive so I was gutted. Food is always hit and miss - never any consistency :(

best burritos and such in glasgow

Great hidden gem. Best tacos in Glasgow for an affordable price. They also have weekly limited time special dishes which are often delicious experimental combinations which you won't get anywhere else. Been here 3 times in last 2 weeks I've ordered tacos, quesadilla, and burrito. All of them impressed me and kept me coming back

Best Mexican food in Glasgow . Lovely tacos and huge portion of fry’s . The dogs also loved the wee bowl of meat for them to share (very kind ) can’t wait to go back

Súper recomendado! La comida siempre es deliciosa!

Really good. Excellent southern US Mexican, fantastic selection & friendly service

Always fantastic at rafas. Great quick service, proper authentic food and BYOB that’s a plus! Got the barbacoa, fish, and mushroom tacos.

Fantastic street food. Best burrito ever x

Delicious!! 10 out of 10. Rafa's would hold its own in the Mission in San Francisco. My husband is Mexican-American, while I grew up in Southern and Northern California with a grandmother in Tempe, Arizona. We both agreed this is a totally legit Mexican place -- something that is in short supply in UK! We HIGHLY recommend.

Hidden gem in Glasgow's West End. I had the Barbacoa taco, Fish taco and Carne Asada taco. My partner had a chorizo quesadilla. Food was fantastic. By far the best tacos in Glasgow. They have a varied selection of Jarritos Mexican sodas very good. Staff were also very friendly and welcoming. For such a small place it was very busy. Highly recommend.

Such a great vibe of this place. The food was absolutely amazing. Shared 3 tacos and quesadilla and we have not stopped thinking about how good that quesadilla was. We’ll definitely be back.

Amazing food, possibly the best Mexican food in Glasgow. However they are supposed to open at 1pm but they NEVER open on time. It's a shame cause you see loads of people walk past and see the place is closed, when it should by that point be open. Brilliant food, but terrible service.

The most authentic mexican tacos Ive had in Europe since leaving mexico

The food at Rafa's is totally amazing - delicious meat, very authentic Mexican. The quesadillas are particularly good. Very much street food - the inside of the cafe is small but it's a lovely spot in the Hidden Lane to eat out under the gazebo on a fine evening. Can't recommend enough. I just wish it was open on more nights of the week.

Great Tacos and flavours served in a cool of the beat location

YUM oh my, please please get the surf and turf taco, out of this world. Other stars were fish taco, the pickley cabbage was fab, and the queso (make sure to ask for chorizo added to it). Vibes are so nice I don’t think I’ve ever heard a live banjo player before ❤️

The birria tacos on a Tuesday are bang-on.

Fantastic food and friendly people.

Delicious Mexican food in a fun location hidden in an alleyway. One of the best carnitas burritos I’ve ever had.

Best tacos in Glasgow, especially Pollo Asado and Carnitas really taste like Mexico. Staff is also really friendly and cool. Keep it up guys.

Easily the best mexican food I've ever had in my life

Follow your nose down the little alley to find some yummy tacos. Carnitas tacos had that juicy fatty vibe that is so good. Miss the crispy bits common to other versions but very tender. Get an extra napkin! Chorizo were also good but a bit looser than I usually see. But great flavor. Just messy.

Not much more to say friendly people good food nice Mexican soft drinks and a authentic atmosphere the food was also very well priced

We went for birria night after many recommendations from people but personally I found it overpriced and overhyped, the consome was flavourless and the tacos were average the consome I had at mezcal was much better which was why I was disappointed, however the atmosphere and location of the restaurant was very nice and the service was really nice hopefully next time I visit it will be better

If you're on the hunt for an authentic Mexican culinary experience in the heart of Glasgow, look no further than Rafa's Diner. Nestled in the bustling streets, this hidden gem is a haven for taco enthusiasts and lovers of mouthwatering flavors. Prepare yourself for a taste sensation that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico. However, it's important to note that Rafa's Diner tends to be in high demand, and their popularity is well-deserved. To avoid disappointment, it's best to arrive early, as they tend to run out of stock quickly due to their commitment to using fresh ingredients daily. Trust me, the wait is more than worth it!

We had the Carney Asada and Chorizo tacos, and our minds were blown away. Extremely tasty and hot sauce compliments the tacos very nicely. But then we had the king prawn tacos and the nachos. The king prawns missed some acidity, and had a bit too much batter. The cheese on the nachos was the liquid kind, which is unfortunate as it would've been a good opportunity to mix it with some awesome local cheeses. I would definitely go again, but since we had 2/4 items as a miss it's hard to give it 5* and signal a guaranteed good eat.

Post SWG3 experience: My girlfriend and I went to SWG3 last weekend to try out Rafa's at the pop up event, however, we were thoroughly unimpressed. We put up a negative review and received a swift reply from a manager at Rafa's. To our surprise we received a voucher to try out Rafa's again, but this time at their original location at Finnieston. Today we went to this location and ordered the following: Carne Asado Burrito Pollo Asado Taco Carnitas Taco Tortilla Chips with Salsa Pollo Asado Quesidilla Our entire dining experience was completely different to the one we had previously. The service was swift and friendly with quick response to the fact we had a voucher and that we had had a bad experience prior. The food tasted fresh, juicy and authentic with the highlight being the pollo asado taco. We completely understand why there are so many raving reviews and the line today was straight out the door. We thoroughly enjoyed this experience and look forward to another visit soon!

First time trying Rafa’s and to be honest, we are thoroughly unimpressed and disappointed. Despite the raving reviews, we found the food to be cold, dry and completely overpriced. The idea of a pop up kitchen in SWG3 was good in theory, but we felt like this backfired. Even though we are unsatisfied by this experience, we don’t want to truly believe this represents Rafa’s cuisine. After coming back this weekend to the actual Rafa’s restaurant, thanks to a voucher they offered us, we are glad to be able to agree with the reviews read before going to the SWG3 event last weekend (first photo). Today’s food (next 4 photos) was warm, fresh and very tasty, we had the opportunity to try pollo asado tacos - our favourite choice -, carnitas tacos, pollo asado quesadilla and an amazing burrito - highly recommended as well - with a portion of tortilla chips and salsa. The service has been lovely as well and we will definitely come back to try again other things! They had a Mexican horchata I want to try next time! Thank you very much!

pop up acid bar swg3 was great! will be back to the actual location soon

I went to a Rafa’s pop-up at SWG3 and the food was some of the best Mexican I’ve ever tried. The flavours and quality were just excellent - it’s got me really excited to visit actual Rafa’s! The birria tacos were the best of the lot - that smoky dipping sauce was something else. Just everything was wonderful. I won’t comment on the service, as it was in SWG3 but the food was great.

Attended the SWG3 pop up tonight. The service was good however the food was such a letdown and I really don’t understand the hype. We paid £16.96 which included either starter & main or the three birria tacos. We got the chicharron & guac, three chicken tacos and the birria. If you ordered the birria you couldn’t get a starter or dessert which was okay with us, even though it was steep for what it was. Opted to share the starter, having had chicharron in a few different places across the globe I was letdown when I was served what looked like pork scratchings out of a packet. The guac was really nice however. The main issues came with the tacos, the chicken tacos came on two tortillas each, these weren’t heated up or toasted in the slightest (see picture) and overall were really tasteless. I had high hopes for the birria tacos after hearing that Rafas done the best ones. Unfortunately I wasn’t impressed and have had better elsewhere, the sauce that accompanied them was pretty tasteless. Lastly we happened to have a view into the kitchen area where they prepped the food we managed to witness the chef eating food with his hands wearing his blue gloves that he then prepped the diners food wearing. Not sure that’s very hygienic, the cutter oh we got served was rusty and mismatched 🤷‍♀️

Live next to Rafas and I’ve excitedly skipped down there 4 times, diligently checking the opening times, only to find it closed. Absolutely gutting every time. I’m going to open a spite taqueria next door. One star (if I don’t get a taco soon).

Took my Mexican wife after telling her about it for ages, very disappointing. Fish tacos were cold and tasted like nothing. Price is daylight robbery. One star for the corn tortillas as opposed to the wheat or tostada style ones found elsewhere. I think this place is more about the aesthetics for Instagram rather than the taste. Fair play to the owner who's obviously making a fortune at very little expense.

Great couple of tacos. Even got some chicken for the dug fae rafa himself. I shall be back

Rafas is the best Mexican Glasgow has ever experienced. This is top quality food and as authentic as you will get this side of the world. Hats off to the Rafas team, we have been numerous times now and each time you deliver the quality as good as the last time. If you haven't been.... Treat yourself 👌

Excellent food, friendly staff. Food is freshly made on BBQ outside. The carne asada tacos are delicious and the cakes are fantastic, washed down with some Mexican soda. One of the best Mexican dinner I have been to

Amazing, authentic tacos. Easily the best in Scotland. Staff are amazing.

Bit disappointed as there was no spice /flavour in any of our food, it was still tasty just not mexican/spicy. The Queso dip was more like a weak mac'n'cheese sauce than a cheesy spicy dip too.

Amazing food. Will definitely be back for another time.

absolutely delicious tacos, lovely friendly wee place with great atmosphere. Cant recommend enough!

I’ve never been to Mexico but I have been to Southern California and Rafas serve up the best tacos I’ve ever had East of San Diego. Rafas is our go to weekend pit stop and I’ve never had a dish that wasn’t punching with flavour and served with care and kindness. And the music is almost always excellent. If there is anywhere else you can hear Pavement, the Beastie Boys, LCD Soundsystem and the Dead Kennedy’s back to back then I want to know.

Hands-down THE BEST Mexican food we’ve ever eaten. Great vibe to the place - all about the food. Worth the hype. Going to be a stop for us on every trip we make to Glasgow from now on

As a mexican that loves his food I can say that this was authentically mexican and delicious. Probably the best in the UK. The people is really welcoming and now I see why the place is always so crowded. Recommended and I’ll defo be back.

Soy mexicano y el sabor de sus tacos son lo más parecido al sabor original de México que he probado en todo Reino Unido. Pregunten por Tito, el encargado, y los atenderá muy bien. Recomendable los jueves de birria para curar la cruda.

Longtime Rafa’s fan here. Listen, this place always slaps. Incredible. Every single time. However—today was transcendental. Strong word but my god. The food today was perfect. The whole team is always so lovely as well ~ couldn’t recommend more !

The best tacos i’ve ever had! Fish & king prawn tacos are amazing, definitely try those🌮 Also the nachos are loaded with guac, salsa, queso and sour cream and are delicious. Don’t forget to try their hot sauce, it will make everything even better:)

I very rarely leave reviews but this place was just outstanding. Tiny little seating area, but the food was just tremendous.

Cute little hangout with all the right vibes!! There’s limited seating so more often than not you’ll be taking out l Food is mouth wateringly good!

If you want the best Mexican food in Glasgow, this is it! The menu and atmosphere is as authentic as it gets! My friends and I tried the burritos, quesadillas, and tacos. Well-seasoned meat, actual hot chiles, homemade salsas, and tacos have two corn tortillas! The owner and staff are all very friendly and the restaurant stayed busy the whole time we were there. We'll definitely come back!

Best burrito I’ve ever had! Delicious food and such lovely staff! Must come here if visiting Glasgow. Will definitely be back.

The burrito I had was okay. It was pleasant but to be honest nothing better than what you can get elsewhere in Glasgow - it’s also rather quite dear for the size of it. The tacos were poor and appeared to be ‘flung’ together with little care as the box they came in was a bit of a mess. The chicken one was a bit dry and Fish one was better but still lacking. Had it not been for the lime wedge I’m not sure I would have tasted much at all. Another Insta-style hype job for me. Nothing I had would make me rush back.

It's a very nice place and great food! Very nice to go if you are wanting some nice food and very nice employees (one very nice employee cleared of the wet seat for me even though they were closed)

Got veggie tacos Friday night (that was all that was left) and I really don’t get the hype. I basically got a tray of pure mush, couldn’t even lift the tacos as they fell apart due to the liquid content of the filling. So disappointing.

Even eaten under a brolly in the pouring rain these were the best tacos I have ever had! Customers were treated with a kindness and humour that left you looking forward to your next visit.

Was recommended this place by an American friend living in Glasgow and they weren't wrong. These are the best tacos I've had in Glasgow so far. I'm vegetarian and was very satisfied as was my friend who had meat/fish tacos. We both got the three tacos for £10 deal which was very reasonable. It's a shame this place is only open during the week though.

Great food. Really authentic food and staff are super friendly and accommodating.

Food was amazing! Three best Mexican I've had outside of Mexico or Southern USA. Had the mushroom taco, calabasitas taco, and mushroom mulitas. Will definitely be back!

Delicious food. Lovely staff. Will be back.

If you are someone who likes spicy and flavorful Mexican food, this is the place. My personal favourite was the nachos with green chilli dipping sauce.

Best burritos you can find in Scotland!

Amazing well priced burrito, perfect for a pre or post pub dinner. Great music choice too!

I shall start by saying ainlove the location, it's good. But that's where the positives end. From sub-standard sanitary conditions in the servicing area to uncooked, bland, mushy food, this place is a total disappointment. Easily the worst "Mexican" food I've had in the UK, the carne asada wasn't cooked or prepared properly, the fish tacos were greasy and disgusting and the slaw was just uncooked cabbage. Outside of The Hanoi Bike Club, this is the worst restaurant I've visited in Glasgow.

A great wee taquieria in Glasgow of all places, especially a pretty authentic one. Love the vibe of the place, the food is great. The three tacos I got were outstanding, carnitas burrito was a game changer.

Authentic Mex/ American west coast food , stumbled upon this place one Saturday afternoon , I’ve been to California a few times and this is the closest I’ve found to what you will get there ,we’ll worth a visit

One of the best burritos I’ve tried, could do with some veg in them but otherwise fantastic