Article

Explore Mexico without Leaving Kissimmee: Cultural Cuisine

From authentic Mexican cuisine and salty margaritas to the local activities, you'll find a taste of Mexico in Kissimmee!

four different margaritas sit in a row on an outside bar.

Explore the many different flavors of margaritas in Kissimmee

We’re taking fiesta to a whole new level here in Kissimmee! Did you know you can experience Hispanic culture without ever leaving Central Florida? We’ve created this travel guide to take you on a cultural adventure, from authentic Mexican cuisine and salty margaritas to the local activities inspired by our Hispanic ancestors.

¡Vamos!

Downtown Kissimmee

What better way to start this new adventure than in the heart of Kissimmee? Kissimmee Main Street is full of local eateries, shops, and our very own lighthouse at Lakefront Park. You’ll immediately notice Kissimmee’s culture just by the signs. 

From hand-crafted margaritas and cocktails to authentic Mexican food and Tex Mex, Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant is sure to please. Pair your skinny margarita with The Grande – three enchiladas accompanied by a tamale, crispy beef taco, cheese chile relleno, and their handmade guacamole. And finish with Chef Luis' Abuelo’s award-winning Traditional Flan for dessert! 

Come on in to Matador Tacos & Tapas Bar for weekend entertainment and daily delicious pairings of food and drinks. Whether you choose tapas like the Nachos Locos or entrees such as the Churrasco Al Matador, you’ll have a fiesta in your belly! Enjoy DJs and dancers, Flamenco Night, and Matador All-Star Dancers for some incredible live entertainment. 

Celebration

Let’s now head over to Celebration Town Center to Avocado Mexican Grill! This family-owned restaurant is a true flavorful journey with hot fajitas, delicious cocktails, and mouth-watering guacamole. You can’t leave Kissimmee without trying this culinary experience of local cuisine and a great atmosphere. 

 

Promenade at Sunset Walk

Although the Promenade at Sunset Walk is a newer area, the Mexican culture is very prevalent. With restaurants like El Jefe, you’ll get the truly authentic food of Mexico. 

El Jefe Tequilas is definitely one of the best places to be when craving tequila and classic Mexican food. This family-owned restaurant uses recipes influenced by culinary trips to Mexico and family recipes passed down from generations. 

Here, El Jefe believes in sipping tequila and not shooting it. And don’t worry, there’s 250 tequilas to choose from Jose Cuervo Traditional Silver to Don Julio 1942. Once you’ve decided what tequila you want, choose from an array of chef’s selection of specialty tacos and fajitas.

One of the favorites is the Lava Rock Molcajete – a dinner served in a lava rock bowl with your meal cooked in salsa, grilled panela cheese, and cilantro. Everything is made from scratch with fresh ingredients, so you’ll feel like you really stepped out of Kissimmee and onto the sandy beaches of Mexico. 

EPCOT

You’ll really feel like you hopped on a plane when you reach the Mexico pavilion at EPCOT. And the best part – you don’t even need a passport! Explore everything true Mexico has to offer with mariachi bands, a festive boat ride, authentic art gallery, and, of course, delicious cuisine. 

Tap your foot to the beat as the Mariachi Cobres play traditional music at the America Gardens Theater. Marvel at the 36-foot-tall pyramid that replicates the Aztec Temple of the Feathered Serpent in the ancient city of Teotihuacán (The City of the Gods). Before heading in, spot the stone art blocking the front steps. This piece is patterned after the mural paintings found in Mexico. 

Upon stepping into the air-conditioned temple, you’ll spot an art gallery “Remember Me”, celebrating Disney and Pixar’s Coco. Beautiful displays of decorative skulls, pre-Hispanic art, and the iconic Bridal Couple sculpture surround the entrance before stepping foot under the twinkling starlight of Mexico.

You can buy unique treasures, delight in specialty margaritas, dine at La Hacienda de San Angel, or take a boat ride with The Three Caballeros in this city-like space. Favorite tastings from the pavilion include avocado margaritas, Tulum Mexican craft beer, tostados, and loaded nachos.

Disney Springs

Disney Springs is a lively spot to enjoy some incredible Mexican cuisine and tasteful music. Stop by Frontera Cocina for drink specials and an atmosphere you’ll never forget. Start the week off with Margarita Mondays, Tequila Tuesdays, or Wild Wednesday. Finish the week off with delicious craft beers such as the Tulum Craft, which is made with sea salt and helps save our oceans!

Add a little guacamole to your table and you’ll have a fantastic feast ahead. Some favorites include Queso Fundido, Oaxcan Mole Chicken, and Cochinita Pibil – all of which are created by Chef Rick Bayless, a seven-time James Beard Award winner. 

Continue the Mexican Heritage

Although your culinary journey has just begun, there’s still time to squeeze in some other experiences right here in Kissimmee that are fun and educational for visitors of all ages. 

Take a pottery class for both children and adults at Osceola Arts.

Learn the history of Kissimmee’s Hispanic descent at Osceola County Welcome Center and History Museum.

Visit Old Town General Store where you’ll find treasures like clay pottery, unique bowls, and more. 

Kissimmee’s Mexican flavor is prevalent when visiting our sunny destination. From the delicious cuisine and flavorful drinks to the vast landscape and unique art, you’ll get the feeling of vacationing in Mexico without ever leaving Kissimmee. Want to learn more? Take our Kissimmee quiz for fun facts about the area and subscribe to our newsletter.