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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of California

Chips and salsa spots

You aren't interested in the meal until the chips and salsa arrive.

Based on 899 Opinions
+896
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Updated May 2026
01
Desvelados Santa Monica image 1
Desvelados Santa Monica image 2
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Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican spot shines with fresh chips and salsa that pack a flavorful kick. Stunning design and beautiful decor create a cozy yet lively vibe. Large tables and a big screen showing NBA games make it perfect for family celebrations and group fun.

Chips and salsa come fresh and flavorful. The salsa offers a nice kick that pairs well with the crispy chips.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is amazing."

"I thought the food was delicious and outstanding."

"The chips and salsa here are incredible and made fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers margarita and taco specials.

2

Santa Monica charges a 10.75% city tax on all bills.

3

The menu features a variety of innovative burritos and tacos.

02
Tipsy Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small indoor space offers clean decor and a pleasant atmosphere with soft music. House-made chips and salsa deliver fresh, addictive flavors. Outdoor seating faces a busy road, adding some traffic sounds to the experience.

House-made chips and salsa stand out with fresh, addictive flavors. The chips are clearly made on-site and pair well with the salsa.

People are saying

"The Mexican food, especially the birria tacos, is packed with flavor."

"The tropical ceviche here is fantastic and super delicious."

"I thought their chips and salsa were probably the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Dine-in, togo, and delivery all take more than 30 minutes.

2

Parking is available around the back of the restaurant.

3

Food usually arrives at the table in less than 10 minutes.

03
El Carpintero Mexican Restaurant image 1

Small, cozy spot with a warm, intimate interior and quiet vibe. Enjoy fresh, crispy chips paired with rich salsa roja. Outdoor seating adds a peaceful, relaxing atmosphere perfect for savoring authentic, homemade-style Mexican food at great prices.

Warm chips come fresh and crispy with complimentary salsa roja that has rich, layered flavors in every bite.

People are saying

"I thought the homemade Mexican food was excellent and flavorful."

"I thought the carnitas burrito was probably the best I ever had."

"The chips and salsa here are fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited to street or a nearby closed bank lot.

2

Prices are very reasonable compared to other local restaurants.

3

Portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

04
Buena Comida Mexicana image 1

Small, clean spot with a casual vibe feels like home. Chips arrive fresh and crisp, paired with salsa bursting with flavor. Regulars love authentic Mexican flavors in a simple, unpretentious setting.

Chips come out fresh and crisp with salsa that bursts with flavor. Both are consistently tasty and stand out for their quality.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the fresh ingredients."

"The pozole here is hearty, flavorful, and truly authentic."

"The chips and salsa here are outstanding and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking is available, but it can be challenging due to the busy plaza.

2

They accept Apple Pay, making payments convenient.

3

The restaurant offers a separate vegan menu prepared in a different kitchen.

05
Landeros Mexican Grill + Cantina image 1

Mexican spot shines with colorful murals and a dog-friendly patio perfect for any mood. Chips and salsa are fresh and crunchy, setting a tasty tone. Strong, tasty margaritas and standout dishes like carne asada tacos complete the vibrant experience.

Fresh and tasty chips and salsa set the tone here. The salsa is legit kind, matching the quality of the entrees, and the chips add a delicious crunch that enhances the whole meal.

People are saying

"This Mexican food is much better than normal Tex Mex."

"The food here is delicious and authentic for Date Spots."

"I thought the chips and salsa were the best I'd ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early or using nearby lots.

2

Rice and beans cost an extra $5 with entrees, unlike many other places.

3

Expect large portion sizes that provide good value for the price.

06
Baja Beach Tacos image 1

Small corner spot offers a laid-back beachy vibe with a bright, clean atmosphere. Fresh, flavorful Baja-style tacos and ceviche shine in a cozy setting. Early arrival of chips and salsa with guacamole makes a fresh start to the meal.

Chips and salsa arrive early and stand out as a highlight. They come alongside guacamole, setting a fresh start to the meal.

People are saying

"The fish tacos were light, flavorful, and never greasy."

"The shrimp tacos here are so good, and the service is great."

"I had to order more chips and salsa; they were that delicious."

Good to know

1

They offer a $15 dine-in lunch special on Thursday and Friday from 11 to 3.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

3

Parking is easy with plenty of space in the shared lot.

07
La Hacienda Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot offers addicting chips and salsa with friendly service that feels like family. Warm, clean space with a TV for sports adds to the inviting vibe. Staff visits during quiet times make it feel like home.

Addicting chips and salsa come with friendly service, including visits from staff during quiet moments.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and full of flavor."

"The food here is amazing; you have to try the birria consomme."

"The chips and salsa here were amazing and exceeded my expectations."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features special deals on tacos every week.

2

Generous portions are served without compromising quality.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food provided.

08
Las Michoacanas taco shop image 1
Mexican restaurant

Authentic tacos with fresh handmade tortillas shine in a lively, cozy spot. Enjoy complimentary hot chips and salsa that kick off the meal perfectly. Family-run vibe adds warmth to bold, traditional flavors near the border.

Complimentary chips and salsa arrive hot and fresh as soon as you sit down. Both the chips and salsa are delicious and serve as a perfect appetizer.

People are saying

"These tacos have perfectly seasoned meat and homemade tortillas."

"The carne asada nachos were amazing and worth every penny."

"The complimentary chips and salsa were delicious."

Good to know

1

The taco shop is family-run and known for authentic Mexican tacos.

2

Expect higher prices for smaller portion sizes compared to other places.

3

Be cautious with their salsas if you don't like spicy food.

09
Welik Mexican Cuisine image 1
Mexican restaurant

Warm, modern space buzzes with lively energy and a welcoming family feel. Endless fresh chips and salsa arrive free, adding a tasty kick. Patio offers a relaxing spot with weekend music, though noise can challenge conversation.

Fresh, endless chips and salsa arrive with just the right kick. Crispy chips complement the salsa well, and both come free with the meal.

People are saying

"The food here has great flavor and is made in house."

"I found some of the best Mexican food I've had since El Paso."

"The chips and salsa here are fresh and have just the right kick."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, requiring about a two-block walk.

2

The menu includes options for both meat and vegetarian dishes.

3

Welik has a separate vegetarian menu section with plant-based meat options.

10
Franco's Famous San Clemente image 1

Spacious Mexican spot shines with crispy chips and flavorful salsa served immediately. Enjoy a pet-friendly courtyard and lively bar with standout margaritas. Friendly vibe and good music make it a great hangout.

Chips and salsa come out right when you sit down. The chips are crispy and the salsa is flavorful.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and very well priced."

"The airy patio is a delightful spot for tasty Mexican food."

"The chips and salsa were excellent and very tasty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6pm and all evening on Tuesdays.

2

Taco Tuesday offers an affordable menu with great options.

3

Expect a small wait for seating during popular happy hour times.

11
B & C Taco Bar and Burger image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot offers affordable prices and a casual vibe in a tight, clean space. Breakfast runs all day with standout quesabirria and hearty menudo. Free fresh chips and salsa come crisp and flavorful with every order.

Free servings of fresh chips and salsa come with orders. The salsa tastes very fresh and flavorful, and the chips stay crisp and tasty.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was some of the best I've ever tasted."

"The dinner spots here have delicious food with big portions."

"I thought the chips and salsa were the best I had."

Good to know

1

The restaurant serves breakfast all day.

2

The $18 carnitas taco deal is a popular choice.

3

The place is very clean and inviting.

12
Gorganson's image 1
Vegan restaurant

Modern vegan spot shines with fresh chips and hot salsa served complimentary. Warm, welcoming vibe draws a diverse crowd. Family-run charm and pleasant lighting create a cozy, organized space perfect for relaxing.

Complimentary chips and salsa arrive fresh and hot. The house-made fresh chips and hot salsa taste fantastic.

People are saying

"I thought the vegetarian food here was thoughtful and flavorful."

"I thought the burgers here were just dang good and carefully crafted."

"The chips and salsa here are fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Gorganson's offers a variety of vegan options for lunch and dinner.

2

Taco Tuesday features fish tacos for $1 each.

3

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

13
Todos Santos | Kitchen de Mexico | Balboa Island, Newport Beach image 1

House-turned-restaurant offers ocean breeze and picturesque views on outdoor patios. Chips have good spice and salsa adds a spicy kick. Bar serves excellent margaritas, creating a cozy, laid-back vibe.

Chips come with good spice and a yummy flavor. Salsa matches well with the chips and adds a spicy kick.

People are saying

"I'm still dreaming about the authentic Mexican food here."

"I thought the latte was amazing, the best I've ever had."

"The chips and salsa were good and spicy."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers discounted tacos and is popular among locals.

2

Happy Hour runs from 4-6pm with special drink prices.

3

Dogs are welcome on the patio, making it pet-friendly.

14
Sazon It: Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers handmade tortillas and authentic dishes in a cozy atmosphere with live music. Fresh chips and great salsa come free with every order, enhancing the meal. Spacious seating and quiet Spanish tunes create a peaceful vibe.

Fresh chips come with every order, paired with great salsa that complements them well. A bag of chips and salsa to go is included at no extra charge.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has the most flavorful, authentic Mexican food."

"I loved their shrimp tacos; the ratio of meat, cilantro, and onions was perfect."

"I loved the chips and salsa; the chips were fresh and the salsa was great."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during lunch rush.

3

Prices are reasonable, with most dishes under $15.

15
Cocina 85 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere with colorful artwork and a super chill vibe. Chips and salsa arrive fresh and tasty, with staff ensuring refills and full drinks. Quiet, clean space with good music makes it inviting and relaxed.

Chips and salsa come fresh and tasty, served with meals like the burrito. Staff keep the chips and salsa coming and make sure drinks stay full.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and tasted so fresh."

"I found the enchiladas with green sauce really good."

"The chips and salsa here were delicious."

Good to know

1

The portions at Cocina 85 are large, so come hungry or plan to take some home.

2

Cocina 85 is family-owned and operated, ensuring a personal touch in service.

3

The restaurant maintains a very clean environment during visits.

16
El Mezcalito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy spot with authentic Mexican food and lively Latin decor. Free fresh chips and salsa add to the experience. Enjoy 5-star margaritas while watching soccer on three TVs.

Freshness stands out with the chips and salsa. They come mild and are very good. The chips and salsa are served free and taste delicious.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic and packed with flavor."

"The guacamole is made right in front of you and it's delicious."

"The chips and salsa here are really fresh and very good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available Monday through Thursday from 2 to 5 PM.

2

The restaurant has plenty of parking available, even during lunch hours.

3

The bill for two people with drinks and appetizers averages around $51.

17
Casa Ramos image 1
Restaurant

Cozy, family-run spot serves fresh chips with spicy salsa and authentic Mexican dishes like carne asada. Enjoy great margaritas in a relaxed setting with live music and soccer on screen.

Freshly made chips come with a pleasantly spicy salsa. Complimentary chips and salsa set a strong start to the meal.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, with rich, flavorful sauces."

"The staff here is so sweet and amazing with the enchiladas."

"The chips and salsa here are so good, the chips are thin and crispy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $6 nachos and drinks from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Karaoke night starts at 10pm on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups or special events.

18
Maria's Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Long, narrow space offers a quiet, cozy atmosphere with basic Mexican decor. Chips arrive fast with exceptional salsas that locals love. Portions are hearty, making it a great spot for a casual meal.

Chips arrive immediately with a good salsa that complements them well. The combination is consistently enjoyable.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the carnitas."

"The chicken taco was amazing and so flavorful."

"The chips and salsa here are amazing and served immediately."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but expect a wait during peak hours.

2

Average meal cost is around $17, including tip.

3

Breakfast is available all day, appealing to families.

19
Amor Indio Mexican Restaurant image 1

Small Mexican spot with a homey atmosphere and authentic flavors like chili rellenos. Chips are perfectly salted, paired with salsa that has a mild bite. Full bar serves skillful Margaritas, adding lively energy.

Chips come with the right amount of salt and salsa has a mild bite. Pickup orders include extra chips and salsa.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is so good, you'll be quiet."

"The chips and salsa were good, with a mild bite."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

Expect large portion sizes for all menu items.

3

The restaurant does not offer delivery services.

20
El Amigo #3 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot with a cozy atmosphere and fresh chips and salsa served free. Indoor and patio seating offer a casual vibe with TVs showing sports. Friendly staff keep the mood inviting and relaxed.

Fresh chips and salsa come free with your meal. The salsa tastes bright and complements the crunchy chips well.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be the best in town."

"I loved their super tasty, hearty burritos packed with meat."

"They served fresh chips and salsa with my meal."

Good to know

1

Parking is behind the building, which can be convenient but is often limited.

2

Finding parking during peak hours can be a challenge.

3

The restaurant provides free chips with every order.

21
El Patio Fine Tacos And Beer image 1

Outdoor patio offers a cool atmosphere with live mariachi music adding charm. Unlimited fresh chips and salsa come with meals, with several salsa options. Spacious seating and multiple TVs make it lively, though occasional street noise and flies can be distracting.

Unlimited chips and salsa come with the meal. Several varieties of salsa are available on request. The chips and salsa taste very good and fresh.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and tasty."

"The outdoor seating has a really nice atmosphere."

"The chips and salsa here are so fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour pricing is available on Mondays for the mocajete.

2

Mariachi music is featured on Sundays for two hours.

3

Taco Tuesday offers tacos for approximately $1.95 each.

22
Los Compadres image 1
Mexican restaurant

Simple building with large tables and a family-run vibe offers authentic Mexican dishes on large oval platters. Homemade chips and salsa shine with fresh, bold flavors. Limited hours and a loyal local crowd keep energy steady and familiar.

Homemade chips and salsa stand out for their freshness and flavor. The salsa pairs perfectly with the crispy chips, making it a must-try for anyone who enjoys this classic combo.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here tastes exactly like I remember."

"The food here is delicious and well prepared."

"I'd drive hours for these homemade chips and salsa."

Good to know

1

Los Compadres is only open on Friday and Saturday.

2

They only make carnitas on Saturday.

3

Expect limited hours, closing at 6:30 pm.

23
Cal Mex Cantina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers homemade chips with bold salsa and rich oil. Ocean views and an outdoor patio create a relaxing atmosphere. Live guitar music after sunset adds to the family-friendly vibe.

Chips come homemade and fresh with salsa that has a bold, bright flavor. The oil served alongside adds a delicious richness to the experience.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"You get a gorgeous view of Redondo Beach from the patio."

"These chips and salsa are some of the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday to Thursday with discounted appetizers and drinks.

2

Taco Tuesday offers special pricing on tacos and margaritas.

3

Parking is convenient and available nearby.

24
Mi Cocina Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small cozy spot offers authentic chips and salsa that everyone loves. Enjoy live music on the dog-friendly patio while savoring generous portions of Mexican dishes and diverse margaritas. Warm vibe invites all ages to relax and indulge.

Starts with tasty, authentic chips and salsa that draw attention. The salsa pairs well with the chips, making it a favorite for all ages.

People are saying

"The crispy tacos and shredded beef were excellent."

"This lunch spot has fantastic, authentic Mexican food with great flavor."

"The chips and salsa were tasty and authentic."

Good to know

1

The Sunday brunch special offers all-you-can-eat options with bottomless mimosas for $30.

2

A $20 option includes soda or coffee refills during the Sunday special.

3

Some dishes change weekly, offering new options every Sunday.

25
TODO PA' LA CRUDA image 1
Mexican restaurant

Warm interior and beautiful decor create a welcoming vibe. Food features authentic Mexican flavors on fresh homemade tortillas. Every meal starts with free chips and salsa, known for their delicious taste and highly recommended chips.

Free chips and salsa come with every order. The salsa is delicious and the chips are highly recommended not to fill up on because they are very flavorful.

People are saying

"The Mexican food, especially the pozole, is delicious and authentic."

"The tortillas here are fresh and homemade."

"You have to try the chips and salsa; they're delicious."

Good to know

1

Good food takes time, and customers should expect a wait, similar to other sit-down restaurants.

2

Their tacos now come on freshly made corn tortillas at this location.

3

The prices at TODO PA' LA CRUDA werenโ€™t bad.

26
Bahia Grill Cocina Mexicana image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Mexican breakfast shines with authentic cuisine and crispy chips paired with flavorful salsa. Cool air conditioning and beautiful wall paintings create a relaxed vibe. Large groups enjoy margaritas with chili rims in a lively setting.

Chips come out crispy and the salsa is flavorful. Both are consistently excellent and on point.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and unique."

"I thought the fish here was the best I had at a restaurant."

"I thought the chips and salsa were delicious and crispy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating.

2

Expect to pay around $30 for two burritos.

3

A $3 charge applies for refilling the basket of chips.

27
Taco Surf Seal Beach image 1

Casual spot with a beachside vibe and loud music keeps energy relaxed. Chips and salsa are a standout with great flavor and never run out. Crowds make it cozy but fans enjoy cold beer and football on TVs.

Chips and salsa never run out here. They stand out as the best part of the meal with consistently great flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and delicious."

"The tacos and service here are amazing."

"I thought the chips and salsa were great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is the best time to visit.

2

They offered a Taco Tuesday happy hour.

3

They have a gluten-free menu.

28
Enrique's Mexican Restaurant image 1

Small dining room creates a family-friendly atmosphere with beautiful tables. Authentic Mexican dishes like pork shank shine alongside top-tier salsa and fresh chips. Busy spot serves huge portions and tasty margaritas that keep crowds coming back.

Chips arrive quickly and stay tasty throughout the meal. Salsa pairs well, making the combo consistently delicious and wonderful.

People are saying

"I thought their table salsa was the best I had ever had."

"The food here tastes so fresh and authentic."

"The chips and salsa here are really tasty."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait during peak hours, especially for dinner.

2

Parking is generally easy in the strip mall area.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

29
El Canario Carnitas image 1

Small restaurant offers a cozy vibe with authentic Mexican music creating a warm feel. Crunchy chips come with quality salsa that hooks you. Space is clean and well decorated, making dining peaceful and inviting.

Crunchy chips come with good salsa that shows care in quality. Starters include chips and salsa that can get you hooked.

People are saying

"I'd drive from Orange County just for these carnitas."

"I found the food here to be delicious and fantastic."

"I pigged out on their crunchy chips and salsa."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Weekend specials are available, offering unique dishes at a discount.

3

The restaurant is located in an industrial area, making it less visible.

30
Maria Bonita Mexican Restaurant image 1

Mexican spot serves best tacos and outstanding guacamole in a relaxed setting. Fresh, crispy chips pair perfectly with flavorful salsa. Bar sits tucked in back, adding to the unique layout and casual vibe.

Chips come fresh and crispy with salsa that hits the right balance of flavor. Both the chips and salsa consistently impress with their quality and taste.

People are saying

"The food here was fantastic and worth the price."

"I loved their shredded beef tacos; they were excellent."

"I found the chips and salsa to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers special pricing on tacos, making it a popular event.

2

Expect additional charges when paying by credit card, which can be up to 8%.

3

Parking is plentiful and easily accessible.

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