Located in Nad Al Sheba, this family-run hidden gem is where food lovers can enjoy authentic Mexican dishes that are as flavourful as they are affordable.
Craving authentic Mexican cuisine that won’t break the bank? Meet your new favourite Mexican diner, El Moreno Taqueria. Tucked away in Nad Al Sheba, this family-owned restaurant serves up classic Mexican dishes that focus on real flavour – no frills, just authenticity. From creamy guacamole to irresistible tacos, every dish on their modest yet tempting menu is crafted to deliver genuine taste in every bite.
El Moreno opened its doors in April 2025, founded by 23-year-old Dubai-bred resident chef, Janishq Munge. His culinary journey began just three years before launching his very own restaurant. While pursuing a degree in business administration, Janishq discovered his true passion for cooking and hospitality. This led him to change paths, enrolling at Le Cordon Bleu in London, where he gained experience working in a French brasserie, progressing from commis to chef de partie. Returning to Dubai in 2024, he brought with him the dream of introducing authentic Mexican cuisine to the city. Like many family-run ventures, Janishq and his family handle everything – from recipe development and testing to service and daily operations. Their vision is to establish El Moreno as the go-to spot for genuine Mexican flavours in Dubai, welcoming guests to their cosy 18-seat taqueria.
Though the menu at El Moreno is compact, it packs a punch with bold and vibrant flavours. Guests can enjoy a variety of shareable small plates (all vegetarian), such as Queso Fundido (AED 45), a rich blend of melted Oaxaca and Manchego cheese with an optional Chorizo topping for AED 15; the hearty House Guacamole (AED 29), topped with pico de gallo and onion ash; or Mushroom Chicharron (AED 38), featuring crispy oyster mushrooms served with salsa macha.
The tacos take centre stage with favourites including Carne Asada (AED 57), filled with succulent, chargrilled skirt steak; Pollo Asado (AED 46), featuring marinated, grilled chicken; Cochinita Jackfruit (AED 43), a vegetarian option slow-roasted with citrus and achiote, topped with Oaxaca cheese; and the crowd-pleaser Quesabirria (AED 56), a decadent taco stuffed with slow-cooked brisket and melted Oaxaca cheese, served alongside a rich, meat-infused broth for dipping.
To finish on a sweet note, the dessert menu offers Passionfruit Mousse (AED 37) paired with chamoy, a tangy, fruity condiment; Lime Pie (AED 32) with cream cheese frosting; and Sammy’s Flan (AED 35), topped with smooth caramel and fresh berries. For drinks, diners can enjoy a refreshing homemade Horchata (AED 15), made with rice milk, cinnamon and condensed milk, or opt for house-made sodas infused with hibiscus or fresh orange.
Knowing Dubai loves a good deal, El Moreno are already ahead of the game with offers that have diners coming back week after week:
Taco Tuesdays
What’s a Mexican restaurant without Taco Tuesdays? El Moreno is serving up an all-you-can-eat offer on their entire taco menu – from oozy, melty Quesabirria to fresh and crispy Baja Fish! Every taco is made from scratch in house – right from the hand pressed blue corn tortillas to the house made salsas, using only fresh, premium ingredients. Guests are encouraged to come hungry for unlimited tacos every Tuesday, only for AED 99.
Offer/Price: Unlimited tacos – AED 99
Days & Timings: Every Tuesday, from 12pm to closing
Date Night Thursdays
It takes two to taco, so grab your other half for a low-key yet intimate date night at El Moreno. Every Thursday, for just AED 199, couples enjoy a starter and dessert to share, eight tacos of choice, and two house made beverages. Keeping it classy and affordable, El Moreno guides diners to the quickest way to the heart (hint: it’s through tacos)!
Offer/Price: 1 starter, 8 tacos of choice, 1 dessert, 2 house made beverages – AED 199
Days & Timings: Every Thursday, from 6pm to 10pm
There’s no better place to get a fix of authentic Mexican soul food than a family-run, homegrown business like El Moreno. Located at Azizi Riviera 2, Meydan One in Dubai, El Moreno is open from 12pm to 10pm, from Tuesday to Sunday. Walk-ins are welcome but bookings are recommended and can be made by calling +971 50 475 2944.
