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Local picks

Mexican seafood in Costa Mesa

You want a menu that treats fresh seafood with the same respect as traditional Mexican staples.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Baja Fish Tacos image 1
Baja Fish Tacos image 2
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Mexican restaurant

Wide-open layout creates a casual, friendly atmosphere with a relaxed beach-town vibe. Busy and noisy during lunchtime, it offers a big salsa bar and self-service soda machine. Known for fresh fish tacos and generous portions, it blends fast food convenience with 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.

Blackened fish tacos stand out with flaky, flavorful fish and crisp cabbage. Shrimp tacos come juicy and well-seasoned. Beans, sauces, and salsas add authentic, fresh flavors throughout.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and consistently excellent."

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

"The fish tacos here are flaky, flavorful, and perfectly spiced."

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.

02
California Fish Grill image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers a casual, friendly atmosphere with quick service and mostly metal seating. The space feels comfortable and welcoming, often crowded but relaxed enough for family and friends. Known for affordable, fresh seafood, it stands out for quality dishes like crispy fish sandwiches and flavorful tacos.

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.

Seafood here features fresh grilled fish cooked to perfection, tender and full of flavor. Dishes like the Cajun shrimp tacos and crispy fish sandwich stand out for their quality and taste.

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.

03
Que Vida Tacos Costa Mesa image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with bar seating and outdoor tables offers an upbeat atmosphere and fresh margaritas. The space feels clean and open with comfortable seats. Regulars enjoy quality tacos and a lively vibe.

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.

Fish tacos stand out with large portions and crispy beer battered fish topped with cabbage and crema. Grilled shrimp, birria, and cochinita pibil tacos also offer solid seafood options.

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."

"I thought the grilled shrimp tacos were very good."

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.

04
Tacos Madre Mexican Cocina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with authentic decor featuring a Frida Kahlo mural and lively Spanish music. Atmosphere feels vibrant and welcoming, creating a chill, family-friendly vibe. Known for handmade tortillas and excellent fish tacos, it offers a casual spot with limited seating and a local feel.

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.

Fish tacos feature big pieces of fish with not too much breading. They come with a nice crema and great salsa that complement the flavors well.

People are saying

"I found the fish tacos to be amazing."

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

"I found the fish tacos to be amazing and tasty."

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.

05
Captain Mike's Fish Fry image 1
Seafood restaurant

Retro style sets a casual tone with a clean, welcoming space. The menu centers on fish and chips known for perfect frying and flavorful quality fish. Regulars appreciate quick service and standout chicken alongside classic sides.

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

Fish and chips come out fresh and crispy with quality fish fried perfectly every time. The fish pairs well with spicy salsa and sides like rice, beans, and tortillas for tacos.

People are saying

"The warm tortillas were perfect for making tacos."

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

"The seafood here is fantastic, especially the fish and chips."

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.

06
Mariscos El Pulpo Sports Bar & Grill image 1

Mexican restaurant with lively atmosphere and very loud conga music creates an energetic vibe. It serves fresh, flavorful seafood and juicy, large tacos at reasonable prices. The space is very clean but not family-friendly, and it tends to be quiet with few customers.

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.

Fresh, flavorful seafood stands out here with shrimp cocktails that are consistently delicious. Fish and shrimp tacos also offer tasty options for seafood lovers.

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.

07
Shuck Oyster Bar image 1

Oyster bar offers a laid-back, cozy atmosphere with fresh, diverse shellfish and dog-friendly outdoor seating. The bar area can feel crowded and separated by plexiglass, while the music sometimes detracts from the vibe. Patrons enjoy excellent oyster variety and refreshing house wines.

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.

Fresh oysters arrive with pure ocean flavor and a variety that stays consistent. Fried oysters offer a perfectly crunchy exterior and creamy inside, while clam and chorizo dishes come with a rich, smooth sauce enhancing their taste.

People are saying

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

"The seafood here is always so fresh and tasty."

"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.

08
Tres Muchachos Wine Bar & Kitchen image 1

Small Mexican restaurant offers an intimate setting with a chill vibe and live DJs spinning records. Outdoor patio seating adds a relaxing atmosphere complemented by heaters when needed. The space feels modern and artful, creating a welcoming and lighthearted environment.

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

Fresh seafood shines in dishes like pesto pasta, paella, and shrimp tacos. Options include ceviche, fish and chips, and seafood paired with homemade chorizo pasta.

People are saying

"I thought the food was phenomenal and awesome."

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

"I loved the seafood paella; it tasted so fresh."

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.

09
Mercado González Northgate Market image 1

Mexican grocery store combines vibrant decor with live mariachi music and a full bar inside. Atmosphere feels lively and festive, often with a DJ and food stations creating a chaotic yet welcoming vibe. Outdoor seating adds a quaint touch, making it a unique blend of shopping and entertainment.

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.

Bright lighting highlights the fresh seafood section, making fish and shellfish look incredibly fresh and affordable. Options include Seabass fish ceviche, Mango Shrimp ceviche, and fish tacos near the sushi spot.

People are saying

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

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

"I loved their fresh fish ceviche and tacos."

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.

10
Rubio's Coastal Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers American Mexican seafood with a focus on fish tacos that remain fresh and delicious. Atmosphere is themed and clean, with options for dining inside, outside, or to go. The place stays quick and affordable, attracting a steady but not crowded flow of diners.

Fish tacos stand out with freshness and generous portions, especially on Taco Tuesday. Burritos and chicken tortilla soup offer solid options, while the salsa bar stays clean and well-stocked with a notably spicy salsa.

Fish tacos come with huge portions and fresh, delicious fish topped with a flavorful sauce. Shrimp tacos and a shrimp trio offer great value and tasty options alongside the classic fish taco.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great and tasty."

"The seafood tacos here are delicious and fresh."

"The Mexican food here is delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

The restaurant maintains cleanliness and has clean bathrooms.

2

There is plenty of parking available at the restaurant.

3

Dining options include inside, outside, or to go.

11
Super A's Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a homey neighborhood vibe and family-oriented atmosphere feels like eating in a big house. Energy stays top notch with loud, lively noise levels, especially during sports events. Offers authentic Mexican cuisine with a mammoth selection of dishes and reasonable prices.

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.

Garlic Shrimp stands out as a favorite, often ordered alongside shrimp fajitas and Diablo shrimp. Shrimp cocktails appear frequently, though the shrimp and octopus cocktail receives mixed reactions.

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.

12
Holé Smokes BBQ image 1

Smoke fills the air alongside the scent of barbecue, while old wood floors scattered with peanut shells create a Texas BBQ vibe. Neon beer signs and multiple TVs support a lively sports-friendly atmosphere. Seating accommodates both groups and families, with a comfortable patio adding to the space.

Mexican food here blends with BBQ, featuring brisket tacos and a brisket and shrimp burrito. Taco Tuesday and Happy Hour offer affordable fish tacos and other deals.

Smoked shrimp stands out with a unique flavor. Shrimp tacos deliver a bold taste and rank above other taco options like fish and carnitas. Yellow chile also pairs well with the seafood choices.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, just melts in your mouth."

"I loved the smoked shrimp; it was like nothing I'd ever had."

"You've got to try the shrimp taco with the Mexican Food here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 7pm on weekdays and 3 to 6pm on weekends.

2

Taco Tuesday features special menu items and pricing.

3

Parking is generally easy to find near the restaurant.

13
Wahoo's Fish Taco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a modern, simple design that feels clean and tranquil. Offers healthy, Cali-inspired cuisine with consistently good fish tacos and generous portions at reasonable prices. Family-friendly atmosphere with a surf and skate culture vibe.

Fish tacos stand out with a good amount of fish and come grilled or fried. The blackened fish taco pairs well with a mushroom enchilada with green sauce. Burritos like the Hawaiian and combos with black beans and white spiced rice add variety.

Fish tacos come with a good amount of fish and are available grilled or fried. The blackened fish taco pairs well with a mushroom enchilada and green sauce. Sides include white rice and black or spicy pinto beans.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"I thought the fish tacos were delicious and had a good amount of fish."

"I thought the fish tacos were delicious and a good amount of fish."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and walk-ins are welcome.

2

Expect quick service with most orders ready in under 10 minutes.

3

Prices are reasonable, with most items under $15.

14
Catalina Fish Kitchen & Seafood Deli image 1

Casual seafood spot with Hawaiian surfer theme and old surf movies playing on large screens creates a laid-back beach vibe. Atmosphere stays quiet and chill, complemented by a salsa and dressing bar. Fish dishes attract locals with fair prices and a focus on fresh, tasty options.

Fish tacos feature tender, not hard chunks of fish with options like Mahi Mahi and swordfish. A sauce bar offers various salsas and plenty of Tapatio to customize flavors.

Fresh fish stands out with a great selection and quick preparation. Fish tacos feature tender, not hard, chunks, and seafood combos offer variety at excellent prices.

People are saying

"I loved the fish tacos, especially the Mahi Mahi."

"I thought the fish tacos were great and tasty."

"It's a chill place with a Hawaiian-themed vibe."

Good to know

1

The seafood selection is good with reasonable prices for quality.

2

Happy hour offers great deals on food and drinks.

3

Parking is available nearby, especially during off-peak hours.

15
Acapulco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant with a tropical outdoor patio featuring a fireplace and live music. Upbeat cantina atmosphere blends casual, beachy interior with a family-friendly vibe. Generous margaritas and colorful patio make it a lively spot for relaxing and socializing.

Authentic Mexican food shines with dishes like Burrito Gigante, carne asada, and steak and shrimp fajitas served sizzling. The menu also features tortilla soup, menudo with tortillas, and $3 margaritas on Mondays.

Prawn cocktail features six fresh king prawns on the glass rim with shrimp inside. Baja fish tacos and shrimp enchiladas with crab in green sauce stand out. Steak and shrimp fajitas arrive sizzling.

People are saying

"I found the handmade tortillas and authentic Mexican food to be great."

"The brunch staff, especially Jesus and Ale, made my daughter feel so special."

"The seafood tacos here are unbelievable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 3pm to 8pm with drinks starting at $4.

2

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos and drinks.

3

The lunch buffet costs $14 for all-you-can-eat options.

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Costa Mesa, California

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