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Local picks

Taco spots in Costa Mesa

A taco that stands on its own merits without needing a mountain of toppings to hide the flavor.

Based on 653 Opinions
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01
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Glass windows reveal food preparation in a clean, quiet space with handmade tortillas and fresh ingredients. Seating feels open and controlled, creating a home-like vibe in an industrial setting. The place draws a steady crowd on limited days, known for exceptionally priced, high-quality tacos.

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.

Steak and Al Pastor tacos stand out with freshly handmade tortillas and meat marinated for 12 hours in 24 ingredients. The tacos combine flavorful meat and veggies with incredible pricing and a chill vibe.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was phenomenal."

"I thought the tacos here were 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.

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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.

Steak, al Pastor, and carnitas tacos stand out with bold flavors and a next level corn mix. Fish, birria, and cochinita pibil tacos also offer solid options for variety.

People are saying

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

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

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.

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Mexican restaurant with clean, comfortable interior and a calm atmosphere. It draws people who enjoy authentic birria tacos and offers plenty of indoor seating and parking. The space feels fresh and organized, making it a straightforward spot for focused dining.

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.

Tacos here stand out for their authentic birria flavor and come in options like Triple Tacos and Quesobirria. Serving includes a Consume for dipping, enhancing the rich taste experience.

People are saying

"These birria tacos are amazing and cost only two dollars."

"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.

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Butcher shop deli with modern, clean design and small indoor and outdoor seating offers a friendly, comfortable atmosphere. It serves high-quality halal meats, including Wagyu burgers and pastrami, known for freshness and gourmet taste. Portion sizes are generous, and the place maintains impeccable standards.

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.

Birria tacos stand out as exceptionally flavorful and tender. The menu also features prime wagyu ribeye tacos that offer a rich, high-quality beef experience.

People are saying

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

"I thought these tacos were outstanding and the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

$5 Wagyu Tacos are available every Tuesday.

2

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

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Everything on the menu is Halal.

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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.

Carne asada tacos feature juicy, huge meat with rich flavor. Shrimp and fish tacos offer solid options alongside the well-prepared carne.

People are saying

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

"I found the carne asada tacos to be really 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.

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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 stand out as amazing and rival other well-known spots. Keto tacos offer a variety of delicious meats. The Taco El Gobernador and barbecue tacos also deliver excellent authentic flavors.

People are saying

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

"I thought the 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.

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Hole-in-the-wall carniceria and market offers authentic Mexican street tacos and homemade tortillas alongside fresh meats and produce. Small space with narrow aisles and a few tables creates a lively, local vibe. Prices stay very reasonable, and bilingual staff assist 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.

Tacos come stacked with large carnitas, onions, and cilantro. Al pastor and carne asada tacos stand out as stellar choices. Street tacos offer unreal good flavor at a low price.

People are saying

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

"I thought their al pastor tacos were stellar."

Good to know

1

Prices average around $50 per week for protein purchases.

2

Bilingual staff are available to assist with ordering.

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

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Small space with homey feel and counter-style setup offers spacious outdoor patio featuring dog-friendly seating and Mexican-themed decor. Atmosphere resembles typical Mexican fast food with clean, welcoming environment outside. Indoor seating is limited to high-top tables for two, encouraging outdoor dining.

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.

Tacos feature homemade corn tortillas with vegan fillings like potato, rice, and beans that deliver strong flavor. Fish and carnitas tacos offer great texture and authentic taste alongside the vegan options.

People are saying

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

"I loved their potato tacos."

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.

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Small sports bar with two Diamond pool tables and big screen TVs creates a lively atmosphere for watching games and UFC fights. Friendly vibe includes bikini-clad waitresses and a well-lit patio serving food. Music stays at a moderate level, supporting an enjoyable, social energy.

Carne quesadilla stands out on weekends with a dedicated server. Tacos served on the patio and burritos at the pub offer solid Mexican options alongside occasional grilled items and chips.

Tacos come from a taco lady on certain days, served alongside frozen pizzas and chips. A wide selection of beers pairs well, especially when enjoyed on the patio.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing and the staff are friendly."

"I thought the tacos were bomb."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited with a small lot and street parking available after hours.

2

Prices for food and drinks are very affordable.

3

The bar shows NFL games and has the NFL ticket.

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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.

Tacos come with Chile Verde and lunch specials that include soup. Taco Tuesday offers a bargain and the tacos pair well with favorite beers.

People are saying

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

"I found the tacos to be really good."

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.

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Bright space with classic Mexican vibes and a cozy, lively atmosphere invites casual dining. In-house mariachi band adds spontaneous music, creating memorable moments. Generous portions and reasonable prices complement fresh, standout tacos and grilled meats.

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.

Tacos feature grilled meats and fresh salsas that stand out. Options include a carnitas taco priced around $3 and a grilled shrimp taco with shredded cabbage and chipotle sauce.

People are saying

"Their tacos and grilled meats are amazing."

"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.

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Large boilers produce homemade tortillas and chips in a busy, chaotic space with limited seating focused on takeout. The atmosphere feels authentically Mexican despite unsanitary conditions and a no-frills setup. Generous portions and flavorful tacos, burritos, and carnitas draw long lines.

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.

Tacos come with a massive amount of meat, often enough for two or three tacos. Carnitas tacos stand out with tender, juicy meat packed full of flavor. The surtido taco offers a mix that many find exceptional.

People are saying

"The carnitas here are delicious and not chewy."

"The carnitas tacos were delicious and large."

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.

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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.

Pork belly tacos stand out with rich flavor and generous filling. Steak tacos offer a tender, satisfying bite that many find memorable.

People are saying

"I thought the pork belly tacos were stuffed and delicious."

"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.

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

3

The restaurant hosts food and wine pairing events regularly.

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Mexican restaurant offers authentic carnitas and traditional breakfast tacos with generous portions at reasonable prices. Small shopping center setting provides easy parking and a casual vibe. Food focuses on genuine flavors rather than trendy variations.

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.

Tacos come in a good selection with options like al pastor, lengua, and tacos dorados. Portions are small but loaded with meat, and prices stay reasonable.

People are saying

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

"I'd return just for the folded tacos dorados."

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.

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Small Mexican restaurant with cozy atmosphere and upscale decor offers an intimate setting with candlelight and background music. The space feels warm and authentic, suited for relaxed conversations despite occasional loud music. TVs show sports, adding a casual touch to the otherwise refined vibe.

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.

Tacos come in a happy hour special of 3 for $10 starting at 4pm. The chicken taco stands out as especially flavorful, and Taco Tuesday offers great deals alongside margaritas for $7.

People are saying

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

"You can get three tacos for $10 during happy hour."

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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Small Mexican restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere and a salsa bar for fresh toppings. A big screen TV adds to the casual vibe, while limited parking encourages biking or street parking. The menu features affordable tacos and breakfast burritos with a variety of fillings.

Tacos stand out with carnitas, shredded beef hardshell, and fish tacos all offering distinct flavors. The salsa bar and guacamole add fresh, tasty options, while breakfast burritos like the Machaca shine for morning meals.

Tacos come super fresh with excellent salsas and include options like al pastor, chicken, carne asada, Mahi Mahi, carnitas, and shredded beef hardshell. Taco Tuesday offers $2 tacos and $2.50 beers, making it a popular event with great prices.

People are saying

"You've gotta try the shredded beef hardshell tacos for Mexican Food."

"You should try the shredded beef hardshell tacos; they're on another level."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers $2 tacos and $2.50 beers.

2

Parking is limited, especially for dine-in customers.

3

Takeout wait times are usually under 15 minutes.

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Food truck offers Mexican street tacos with flavorful salsas and fair prices that have barely increased over years. Atmosphere stays clean with a typical casual vibe. Customers sometimes need to confirm presence as location varies.

Street tacos feature carne asada, al pastor, and cecina with meat that is not fatty or cheap tasting. Flavorful salsas and horchata complement the menu, and prices remain stable over time.

Mexican street tacos feature lean, flavorful meat like carne asada, al pastor, and cecina. Friendly owners serve these with fresh salsas and keep prices stable over time.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican street tacos here to be the best."

"The taco staff here is super friendly and kind."

Good to know

1

Call in advance to confirm the taco truck's location as they may not always be there.

2

An additional charge of 35% applies for using Apple Pay on certain items.

3

The owner aims to keep prices low to support customers during tough economic times.

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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 stand out with freshness and generous portions, often loaded with toppings and sauce. Options include blackened taco plates that add extra flavor, alongside affordable steak and chicken tacos.

People are saying

"These fish tacos 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.

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Hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant with a pleasant patio and ample salsa bar. Atmosphere feels like a comfortable neighborhood spot with affordable prices. Food includes fresh, authentic tacos and standout hot sauces.

Tacos and burritos come fresh and made to order with authentic flavors. The salsa bar offers a variety of options including chips and guacamole, and specials often include free tacos with meat choices.

Tacos come fresh and authentic with a choice of meats. Specials include free tacos on Fridays and crispy tacos stand out as favorites.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be fresh and made to order."

"I found the tacos to be fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

On Fridays, you can get a free taco with a purchase.

2

Fresca's Mexican Grill offers regular specials that include free tacos.

3

The regular price of a taco is around $5.

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Casual Mexican restaurant with skate and surf decorations creates a fun atmosphere. Menu offers generous portions and a good variety of fish tacos and burritos, often described as healthy and tasty. Seating is comfortable, and the place maintains a reliable, order-at-the-counter setup.

Fish and shrimp tacos stand out with a delicious and healthy profile, paired well with citrus slaw and Fuego carnitas tacos. The menu offers a solid variety including wet burritos and enchiladas, all at good prices with consistent quality.

Tacos feature citrus slaw, fish, and carnitas options that stay consistently solid and delicious. Prices are good and the menu offers a variety of tasty choices including shrimp and enchiladas.

People are saying

"The Mexican food, especially the tacos, is delicious."

"The fish and carnitas tacos here are delicious."

Good to know

1

Wahoo's Fish Taco offers a good variety of menu options.

2

The portions at Wahoo's Fish Taco are generous.

3

Wahoo's Fish Taco is a casual, order-at-the-counter setup.

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Old school Mexican restaurant with an open, airy layout after recent renovations. Atmosphere feels family-friendly and cozy, with a bar area showing games on large screens. Known for classic tacos and strong margaritas, it draws locals who appreciate its long-standing community presence.

Taquitos stand out as a signature dish here. Warm chips and salsa come with the meal, and pitchers of margaritas add to the authentic Mexican experience.

Tacos come huge and delicious with standout shredded beef options. Taco Tuesday features notable nachos alongside the tacos.

People are saying

"I've loved their Mexican food since I was a kid; it's a favorite."

"I've been coming here since I was in diapers for their tacos."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers all-day specials during happy hour with $4 bowls.

2

Happy hour features great prices on food and drinks from 4-7pm.

3

Parking can get hectic, so arrive early to find a spot.

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Costa Mesa, California

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