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Local picks in Costa Mesa

Mexican food

You have a standard for authentic Mexican food that doesn't leave room for shortcuts.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Tacos & Carnitas Pepe’s image 1
Tacos & Carnitas Pepe’s image 2
Tacos & Carnitas Pepe’s image 3
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Mexican restaurant

Enjoy authentic carnitas and traditional breakfast tacos with generous portions at great prices. Casual vibe in a small shopping center makes parking easy. Focus stays on genuine flavors over trendy twists.

Carnitas stand out as authentic Mexican and super delicious, with tacos loaded with meat. The menu includes chicken enchiladas and breakfast tacos that taste homemade, all at reasonable prices.

People are saying

"I thought the carnitas were amazing and authentic Mexican."

"I thought the carnitas were authentic Mexican and super delicious."

"I thought the carnitas were authentic Mexican and super delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located in a small shopping center where parking is usually available.

2

The location is near the beach, making it a convenient spot to grab food.

3

The prices at Tacos & Carnitas Pepe’s are reasonable.

02
Elys Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small taco truck serves authentic Southern California street tacos with fresh, local ingredients like al pastor and chorizo. Family-friendly vibe keeps it casual and straightforward, while affordable prices and late-night hours add to its convenience.

Street tacos come fresh with local ingredients like carne asada, chicken, al pastor, and chorizo. The habanero salsa adds a spicy kick, and prices stay affordable at around $2 each.

People are saying

"These street tacos are delicious and made with fresh ingredients."

"These food truck tacos are delicious, especially the carne asada."

"The Mexican food, especially the tacos, is delicious with fresh ingredients."

Good to know

1

Elys Tacos accepts only cash.

2

Parking is very limited with only three or four spaces.

3

Elys Tacos is open late.

03
Tacos La Pina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Glass windows show food prep in a clean, quiet space with handmade tortillas and fresh ingredients. Tacos feature slow-roasted Al Pastor and come with chips, guacamole, and pico de gallo at a low price. Seating feels open and home-like in an industrial setting.

Tacos come with freshly handmade tortillas and flavorful meat like slow-roasted Al Pastor and chorizo y queso. Complimentary chips, guacamole, and fresh pico de gallo add to the experience, all at a low price with friendly service.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were phenomenal."

"I was so impressed with the delicious food at this lunch spot."

"I thought the Mexican food here was phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Tacos La Pina operates on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

2

Expect to arrive early as they often sell out quickly.

3

The wait time for food is about 7 minutes even when busy.

04
Birrieria Guadalajara image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic birria tacos with handmade tortillas in a clean, comfortable interior. Plenty of indoor seating and parking make it easy to enjoy a calm, fresh atmosphere. Focused dining spot with smoking good flavor.

Birria tacos stand out with smoking good flavor and handmade tortillas de maiz. The menu focuses heavily on birria, delivering some of the most delicious tacos around.

People are saying

"Leo gave great food recommendations and was super friendly."

"You have to try the handmade tortillas; they're incredible."

"The birria tacos and consomé here are super delicious."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available, including off-street parking.

2

The consomé needs to be purchased separately.

3

The restaurant was always clean.

05
Que Vida Tacos Costa Mesa image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot shines with fresh margaritas and quality tacos like al Pastor and birria. Bar seating and outdoor tables create a lively vibe. Breakfast burrito and Birria Fries add tasty variety and great value.

Tacos here stand out with al Pastor, birria, and carnitas options that taste very fresh and flavorful. The breakfast burrito and Birria Fries offer solid variety and value, making it a solid spot for Mexican food.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos were some of the best I've ever had."

"I found the breakfast burrito to be muy bueno."

"The chips and salsa here are amazing, with three delicious levels of heat."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers three tacos for the price of two.

2

The Taco Tuesday deal costs $11.50 for three tacos.

3

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers.

06
NUDAE Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop offers bright, airy vibes with indoor and outdoor seating. Breakfast burritos are crispy and cheesy, especially the sunrise burrito with cilantro sauce. Dog-friendly space hosts monthly pack walks, creating a strong community feel.

Breakfast burritos come piping hot and cheesy with a crispy outside and are not too heavy. The sunrise burrito with cilantro sauce stands out as very tasty.

People are saying

"This cafe is my absolute favorite coffee shop."

"I thought this breakfast burrito was the best I've ever had."

"I thought the breakfast burrito was the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Nudea offers a monthly drink and food special, so there's always something new to try.

2

NUDAE Coffee has limited indoor and outdoor seating, so arrive early.

3

The café gets really busy around 9am, and tables fill up quickly.

07
Baja Fish Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Wide-open layout creates a casual, friendly vibe with a relaxed beach-town feel. Fresh fish tacos shine with blackened fish and Ensenada style options. Big salsa bar and self-service soda add to the fast food convenience while keeping quality Mexican flavors.

Blackened fish and shrimp tacos stand out with fresh, flaky fish and juicy, well-seasoned shrimp. Ensenada style tacos feature lightly battered fish, crisp cabbage, and creamy sauce made from scratch daily.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and consistently excellent."

"These fish tacos are the best I've ever eaten."

"This Mexican food is so fresh, I loved the blackened fish tacos."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak hours.

2

The portions are generous and satisfying.

3

The menu includes burritos, bowls, enchiladas, and vegetarian options.

08
Mercado González Northgate Market image 1

Mexican grocery store shines with live mariachi music and a full bar inside. Enjoy enchiladas rojo and fresh drinks like cucumber lime fresca. Outdoor seating adds a quaint touch to the lively, festive vibe.

Menus include enchiladas rojo, chili relleno, and mole tamales. Staples like asada and pollo tacos come with rice and beans. Fresh drinks like jamaica and cucumber lime fresca are available.

People are saying

"This grocery store has amazing prepared Mexican food and fresh items."

"You can watch them making the fresh tortillas right on site."

"I found this huge Mexican grocery store filled with tons of fresh food."

Good to know

1

Live music happens every weekend, enhancing the shopping experience.

2

Menudo is served only on Fridays and Saturdays from 6 AM to noon.

3

Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends.

09
Coffee Dose image 1
Coffee shop

Small space with kitschy decor offers a fun vibe and loud music. Mexican dishes shine with tender chicken chilaquiles and a flavorful breakfast burrito. Health-conscious options include gluten-free choices and a cashless policy.

Chilaquiles feature ridiculously tender chicken and come in large portions that feel worth the price. The breakfast burrito shows masterful flavor and construction, though the chilaquiles could use a bit more spice.

People are saying

"The breakfast burrito here is top-notch, especially with those crispy potatoes."

"The coffee here is phenomenal, so smooth and delicious."

"The breakfast burrito is a masterclass in flavor and construction."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

Parking is available on the street, but it can be limited.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred for tips.

10
Hola Adios Coffeeshop image 1

Quirky decor and lively energy create a welcoming vibe perfect for remote work with free Wi-Fi and ample seating. Breakfast burritos with flavorful carnitas shine alongside fresh pastries and rich espresso. Locals gather here, making it a hidden gem for coffee and Mexican-inspired breakfast.

Breakfast burritos stand out with flavorful carnitas and a tasty blend of ingredients. Pastries and the espresso complement the Mexican-inspired breakfast offerings well.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee options were great and the Spanish lattes excellent."

"I thought the breakfast biscuits were amazing and balanced."

"I plan to return for the great coffee and amazing breakfast burritos."

Good to know

1

Their kitchen closes at 2pm.

2

Parking can sometimes be challenging, but street parking is available.

3

Food might require a wait if it’s busy.

11
Deli Nerds image 1
Restaurant

Cozy sandwich shop offers slider-sized sandwiches and a dog friendly patio with shade and heat lamps. Breakfast burritos shine with flavorful fillings and a $5 weekday morning deal. Perfect for casual hangouts or group events with meal prep and catering options.

Breakfast burritos stand out with super flavorful fillings and come boxed individually with salsa on the side. Weekday mornings offer a $5 price per burrito from 8 to 9 am, providing good value.

People are saying

"The French dip and smash sliders here are awesome."

"The outdoor patio space is really cozy and great for hanging out."

"You've got to try their amazing breakfast burritos."

Good to know

1

Burritos cost $5 each on weekday mornings from 8 to 9 am.

2

Sliders are available Monday to Friday from 3 to 6 pm at 2 for $8.

3

Deli Nerds hosts Geeks who Drink Trivia on Thursdays at 7pm.

12
La Carniceria Wagyu - Costa Mesa image 1

Butcher shop deli offers high-quality halal meats like Wagyu burgers and pastrami in a modern, clean design with cozy seating. Mexican dishes shine with birria tacos and quesadillas topped with fresh guacamole and special cheese. Portion sizes are generous and flavors bold.

Birria tacos and quesadillas stand out with fresh toppings like guacamole and a special cheese. Burritos come fresh and flavorful, with the Asada and California Burrito showing strong quality.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here has amazing flavors and superb quality meat."

"The Wagyu Pastrami sandwich is really good."

"The quesadilla's flavors and portions were phenomenal."

Good to know

1

$5 Wagyu Tacos are available every Tuesday.

2

The restaurant accepts cash only due to a down credit card machine.

3

Everything on the menu is Halal.

13
California Fish Grill image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood tacos with Cajun shrimp shine alongside crispy fish sandwiches in a casual, friendly spot. Quick service and affordable prices make it great for families and friends. Salsas range from mild to regular, matching the relaxed, welcoming vibe.

Seafood tacos stand out with Cajun shrimp and battered fish options that offer good value. Salsas include non-spicy roasted tomato and regular versions, catering to milder tastes.

People are saying

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

"The seafood here is delicious and cooked to perfection."

"I found the shrimp tacos and battered fish to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features special deals on tacos every Tuesday.

2

California Fish Grill does not accept cash payments; only cards and mobile payments.

3

There are plenty of free parking spaces available nearby.

14
El Campeon Carniceria #2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Hole-in-the-wall carniceria offers authentic Mexican street tacos with homemade tortillas and fresh meats. Narrow aisles and a few tables create a lively local vibe. Prices stay very reasonable, and bilingual staff help with ordering.

Tacos come with homemade tortillas and are stacked with fresh meat, onions, and cilantro. Menudo, burritos with beans and rice, and al pastor and carnitas tacos are popular choices, served with homemade salsa and limes.

People are saying

"I thought their al pastor tacos were stellar."

"The tacos at this market are unreal good, especially the carnitas."

"I thought their tacos were unreal good, especially the al pastor."

Good to know

1

Prices average around $50 per week for protein purchases.

2

Bilingual staff are available to assist with ordering.

3

The market offers a variety of fresh meats, vegetables, and hot food by the pound.

15
Tacos Madre Mexican Cocina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot shines with handmade tortillas and birria pizza for food lovers. Vibrant Frida Kahlo mural and lively Spanish tunes create a family-friendly vibe. Limited seating keeps it cozy and local.

Birria pizza stands out as a unique dish alongside handmade tortillas and authentic fish tacos. Tacos come with smoky and fresh salsas, and options like the Taco El Gobernador and torta de carne asada offer juicy, flavorful choices.

People are saying

"I found the fish tacos to be amazing."

"The carnitas here are super flavorful and taste homemade."

"I thought the Mexican food tacos tasted homemade and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking at the restaurant is very limited, so arrive early.

2

Expect wait times of up to 30 minutes during peak hours.

3

Taco Tuesdays offer great deals on tacos.

16
Roman's Mexican Restaurant image 1

Strip plaza spot serves all-day breakfast with a homely vibe. Mexican dishes shine with pozole rojo and torta al pastor topped by a bomb green sauce. Burritos feature textured chicken and cold bottled drinks fill numerous refrigerators.

Pozole rojo offers a very delicious and flavorful taste. Torta al pastor comes with a bomb green sauce that pairs well with stuffed jalapenos, and the chicken in the burrito has a lot of texture.

People are saying

"This Mexican food is tasty and reasonably priced."

"The food here is tasty and delicious."

"I had a breakfast burrito that was very good."

Good to know

1

Each taco costs $10.49 on DoorDash.

2

Roman's Mexican Restaurant offers all-day breakfast.

3

The total cost for a meal is around $16, including bottled water.

17
Captain Mike's Fish Fry image 1
Seafood restaurant

Retro style creates a casual vibe with a clean space. Fish and chips shine with perfect frying and fresh fish. Mexican dishes feature spicy salsa tacos with beans and tortillas. Quick service and standout chicken round out classic sides.

Fish, rice, beans, and tortillas come together for four tacos with spicy salsa. Meals include hearty beans and warm tortillas.

People are saying

"The warm tortillas were perfect for making tacos."

"I found the fish and chips to be fantastic."

"The fish tacos here are always fresh and crispy."

Good to know

1

Expect your food to arrive within about 10 minutes after ordering.

2

The restaurant maintains a clean environment for diners.

3

Prices are reasonable, making it a good spot for a meal.

18
Super A's Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy authentic Jalisco-style dishes like chilaquiles and barbacoa in a homey neighborhood vibe that feels like eating in a big house. The place buzzes with lively noise levels especially during sports events, making it perfect for families. Prices stay reasonable with a mammoth selection of Mexican favorites.

Authentic Jalisco-style dishes like chilaquiles with house-made chorizo and beef barbacoa stand out. Weekend specials include pozole and menudo, with satisfying options like chile verde tacos and carne asada fries.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is awesome, with delicious enchiladas."

"The enchiladas here are delicious and Kid Friendly."

"I thought the garlic shrimp seafood was the best I had ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers great deals on tacos, making it a popular choice.

2

Lunch specials are available daily, providing good value for money.

3

The restaurant is family-owned, adding a personal touch to the dining experience.

19
Tres Muchachos Wine Bar & Kitchen image 1

Small Mexican spot shines with pork belly tacos and a chill vibe. Live DJs create a modern, artful atmosphere. Outdoor patio with heaters makes it cozy year-round.

Pork belly tacos and ceviche tostada stand out with fresh, bold flavors. The flan offers a silky, light finish that complements the meal well.

People are saying

"I thought the food was phenomenal and awesome."

"The staff's wine knowledge and passion really impressed me."

"Robert's Chimichurri & Artichoke Hummus was so good, we're still talking about it."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events like wine pairings.

2

Brunch is served all day, making it a flexible dining option.

3

The restaurant hosts food and wine pairing events regularly.

20
La Cañada Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright space with classic Mexican vibes offers fresh tacos like carnitas and grilled shrimp. Cozy, lively atmosphere features an in-house mariachi band for spontaneous music. Generous portions and reasonable prices make casual dining memorable.

Tacos stand out with options like carnitas, grilled shrimp with shredded cabbage and chipotle sauce, and a unique hard shell taco. Fresh, complimentary tortilla chips and salsa come with reasonable prices, and the pico and salsa are light and balanced.

People are saying

"Their tacos and grilled meats are amazing."

"The food here is delicious, flavorful, and generously portioned."

"The staff here is so pleasant and welcoming."

Good to know

1

Ample free parking is available for all diners.

2

The restaurant offers generous portions at reasonable prices.

3

Complimentary tortilla chips and salsa are served with meals.

21
Vegan By El Zamorano image 1
Vegan restaurant

Small spot with homey feel and dog-friendly patio offers vegan Mexican food with homemade tortillas. Burritos and tacos bring bold, traditional flavors. Limited indoor seating pushes guests to enjoy the clean, welcoming outdoor space.

Vegan Mexican food shines with homemade corn tortillas and traditional sauces. Burritos like hibiscus and al pastor, plus tacos such as carnitas and potato, offer rich, flavorful options.

People are saying

"Their authentic, flavorful plant-based Mexican cuisine is a must-visit."

"My Vegetarian order never went through to the kitchen."

"The vegan Mexican food here is authentic and bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday and Torta Thursdays offer special menu items.

2

The restaurant is 100% vegan with no meat options available.

3

Prices are higher compared to typical fast food options.

22
Shuck Oyster Bar image 1

Enjoy fresh shellfish in a cozy, dog-friendly spot with unique tortillas that enhance the small but flavorful seafood tacos. The bar can feel crowded and music sometimes distracts, but refreshing house wines balance the experience well.

Tacos stand out with ahi and lobster fillings that taste great. Tortillas have a unique flavor and texture rarely found elsewhere. Portions are small but packed with seafood flavors.

People are saying

"The oysters here are always so fresh and tasty."

"This oyster bar has the freshest, most amazing selection of oysters."

"The tacos here are pretty good, especially the ahi ones."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for comfortable seating; walk-ins are seated at the bar or outside.

2

Oyster prices are unmarked, so ask before ordering to avoid embarrassment.

3

Parking is easy and accessible near the restaurant.

23
El Toro Bravo Tortilleria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Large boilers make fresh tortillas and authentic carnitas in a busy, no-frills spot. Generous portions of tacos and burritos come with crunchy chips and hot salsa. The place feels truly Mexican despite limited seating and a chaotic vibe.

Tacos stand out with fresh tortillas and authentic carnitas that many consider the best in the area. Crunchy tortilla chips come with extremely hot salsa, completing a solid, flavorful Mexican meal.

People are saying

"The food portions here are generous and a great value."

"You have to try the tortillas; they're made fresh on the spot."

"The carnitas here are delicious and not chewy."

Good to know

1

El Toro Bravo Tortilleria is a take-out only place with no seating available.

2

Masa sells out quickly, so arrive in the morning for the best chance.

3

Expect long wait times during lunch hours due to high demand.

24
Lion & Lamb Coffee Roasters image 1

Massive warehouse space with high ceilings offers a bright, open feel. Breakfast burritos shine with hearty fillings and fresh flavors. Quiet atmosphere supports work and socializing amid artistic murals and strong Christian vibes.

Breakfast burritos stand out with hearty, perfectly cooked fillings and simple, tasty options like the Rico Suave Burrito. Pastries and avocado toast also complement the menu with delicious, fresh flavors.

People are saying

"The coffee here is really good and superb."

"I thought the breakfast burrito was excellent and delicious."

"Their breakfast burritos are awesome and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Prices are not displayed anywhere, which may affect your decision to order.

2

The coffee shop is very busy during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

There is free parking along the building, but it can be hard to find during busy times.

25
PRADERA BRUNCH image 1
Restaurant

Sophisticated space with warm lighting and tasteful cow decor offers a calm, clean vibe perfect for casual dates or family brunches. Mexican dishes shine with chilaquiles and enchiladas suizas standing out. Indoor and outdoor seating create a relaxed atmosphere for all guests.

Chilaquiles stand out with consistent praise. Dishes like enchiladas suizas, chile verde with sides, and tres leches pancakes add variety to the Mexican food options.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and really good."

"I loved the brunch, especially the flavorful chilaquiles and conchas."

"The Mexican food, especially the chilaquiles, was amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand on weekends.

2

Expect a wait of 1.5 hours during peak brunch hours.

3

Parking is limited; arrive early to secure a spot.

26
Mariscos El Pulpo Sports Bar & Grill image 1

Lively Mexican spot shines with juicy carne asada tacos and fresh seafood. Loud conga music fuels an energetic vibe in a clean space. Not family-friendly but offers authentic Mexican flavors at great prices.

Carne asada tacos feature juicy, huge meat that stands out. Fresh shrimp and fish tacos come with great house salsa and chili pastes. The fajita and Tostada Mixta offer authentic Mexican flavors.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so authentic, especially the shrimp tacos."

"I found the carne asada tacos to be really good."

"The seafood here, especially the shrimp cocktails, is so good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is very clean, including the bathroom.

2

Prices are reasonable and portions are big.

3

The restaurant is usually not very busy, making it a good option for a quiet meal.

27
Burritos La Palma image 1
Burrito restaurant

Bright space with indoor and outdoor seating creates a fun vibe. Burritos shine with authentic Zacatecas style and the birria burrito's rich flavor stands out. Seating is larger and newer, making it a welcoming spot for flavorful Mexican food.

Burritos here feature authentic Zacatecas style with flour tortillas considered the best around. The birria burrito stands out for its rich flavor, while the shredded chicken offers a unique smoky taste.

People are saying

"These handmade tortillas are the best I've ever eaten."

"The chili here is so flavorful and perfectly balanced."

"I thought the Mexican food burritos were some of the best I've ever eaten."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a shared lot near the restaurant.

2

Burritos are priced around $5 each; 2-3 are recommended for a full meal.

3

Indoor and outdoor seating is available for larger groups.

28
Dick Church's Restaurant image 1

Diner blends retro remodel with a cozy vibe and lively country music. Outdoor seating and a personal bar add charm. Mexican dishes shine with breakfast tacos and chilaquiles praised for unique flavor and lightness.

Breakfast tacos stand out with their unique flavor and lightness. Chilaquiles come highly praised for being really good and to die for, while the breakfast burrito is solid and enjoyable.

People are saying

"I thought the home-style comfort food was delicious."

"This diner has really friendly service and homemade food."

"The breakfast tacos here have a unique flavor and are so light."

Good to know

1

Parking can be hectic during peak hours, but there is a large free parking lot attached.

2

The diner offers a classic diner-style meal at a decent price.

3

The restaurant is family-friendly and casual.

29
Amorelia Mexican Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot blends upscale decor with a cozy atmosphere. Enjoy spicy mango margaritas and flavorful red pozole. TVs show sports, adding a casual vibe to the intimate, candlelit setting.

Upscale Mexican food offers chilaquiles with red or green sauce, spicy mango margaritas, and red pozole packed with flavor. Tacos come 3 for $10 starting at 4pm, paired well with margaritas for $7.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be delicious and authentic."

"I loved the sweet cafe de olla with cinnamon."

"The steak with chilaquiles verdes and over medium eggs was very good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 3pm to 6:30pm with food and drink discounts.

2

Taco Tuesday specials start at 3pm with tacos priced at 3 for $10.

3

Chips and salsa are no longer complimentary and come with an additional charge.

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Costa Mesa, California

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