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Guide to Costa Mesa

Mexican food and tortillas

Made for those who understand that the quality of the tortilla is the true measure of a Mexican meal.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Tacos La Pina image 1
Tacos La Pina image 2
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Mexican restaurant

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.

Freshly handmade tortillas form the base of every taco here, crafted to complement the fillings without overpowering them. Every tortilla is made from scratch, showcasing freshness and authenticity in each bite.

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 thought the Mexican food here was phenomenal."

"The tortillas here are freshly handmade and taste great."

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.

02
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.

Handmade tortillas come with melted cheese before adding asada and toppings. Burritos use a special tortilla, and the quality of meat pairs well with Oaxaca cheese on the tortilla.

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."

"You have to try the tacos; they were incredible."

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.

03
Vegan By El Zamorano image 1
Vegan restaurant

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.

Homemade corn tortillas stand out with their freshness and soft texture. They appear in tacos, quesadillas, and chips, all made from scratch and paired with traditional sauces.

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."

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

"The homemade tortillas here just melt in your mouth."

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.

04
Mercado Gonzรกlez 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.

Fresh tortillas come out warm from an on-site machine, made with both corn and flour. A tortilla factory operates nearby, adding to the authentic feel and freshness.

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.

05
El Toro Bravo Tortilleria image 1
Mexican restaurant

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.

Fresh tortillas made on the spot are soft and warm, enhancing every bite. House-made tortilla chips come crunchy and pair well with hot salsa, making them a standout feature.

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.

06
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.

Handmade tortillas stand out with a perfect texture that balances softness and slight chew. Fresh corn tortillas taste authentic and almost melt in your mouth, enhancing every taco bite.

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."

"You have to try their amazing handmade tortillas."

"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.

07
Taqueria El Zamorano image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating dominates the space with just a couple of indoor tables. The atmosphere feels sad but the menu stands out with a full vegan selection that impresses with delicious vegan tacos and fresh handmade tortillas. Plenty of parking is available nearby.

Soft, fresh tortillas come handmade here. They pair well with red salsa and horchata for a solid combo.

Authentic Mexican food features soft fresh tortillas and a delicious habanero salsa. Vegan tacos stand out with handmade tortillas and flavors that even non-vegans notice.

People are saying

"I loved the vegan tacos; they were so authentic."

"I found the vegetarian tacos here to be delicious."

"The tortillas here are soft and fresh."

Good to know

1

The venue offers a full vegan menu for those with dietary restrictions.

2

There is ample parking available on-site for visitors.

08
Burritos La Palma image 1
Burrito restaurant

Bright space offers indoor and outdoor seating with a casual, fun atmosphere and music on point. Seating is larger and newer compared to other locations, complemented by a fountain drink machine with varied options. The vibe suits those seeking authentic, flavorful burritos in a welcoming setting.

Handmade flour tortillas stand out for their perfect texture and freshness. They wrap burritos with traditional craftsmanship and are sold in packs for making quesadillas or burritos at home.

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.

09
Birrieria Guadalajara image 1
Mexican restaurant

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.

Handmade tortillas de maiz come with most dishes. The birria tacos use these incredible handmade tortillas. The selection includes a wide variety of delicious handmade items featuring these tortillas.

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 consomรฉ here are super delicious."

Good to know

1

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

2

The consomรฉ needs to be purchased separately.

3

The restaurant was always clean.

10
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.

Warm tortillas come with meals and work well for making tacos with fish, rice, and beans. They are soft, fresh, and complement the spicy salsa nicely.

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

People are saying

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

"The warm tortillas were perfect for making tacos."

"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.

11
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.

Fresh handmade tortillas appear right in front of you, paired with dishes like menudo and quesabirrias. The lunch buffet includes all-you-can-eat tortillas that complement the meal well.

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.

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."

"You can get fresh handmade tortillas here."

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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