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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Costa Mesa

Taco spots

A quick, handheld meal is the only way to get through the day without slowing down.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Que Vida Tacos Costa Mesa image 1
Que Vida Tacos Costa Mesa image 2
Que Vida Tacos Costa Mesa image 3
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Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot shines with bold steak tacos and a lively vibe. Fresh margaritas complement the upbeat atmosphere and comfortable seating. Outdoor tables add charm, making it a great place for quality tacos and socializing.

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 found the breakfast burrito to be muy bueno."

"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.

02
Tacos La Pina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Glass windows show food prep in a clean, quiet space with handmade tortillas and fresh ingredients. Steak and Al Pastor tacos shine with meat marinated 12 hours in 24 spices. Seating feels open and homey in an industrial setting, offering exceptional pricing and a chill vibe.

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 tacos here were phenomenal."

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

"I loved the fresh guacamole with their signature seasoned chips."

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.

03
La Cañada Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

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

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 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.

04
Mariscos El Pulpo Sports Bar & Grill image 1

Mexican spot buzzes with lively atmosphere and loud conga beats. Enjoy juicy, huge carne asada tacos and fresh seafood at fair prices. Space stays clean but quiet, not ideal for families.

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."

"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.

05
Baja Fish Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Wide-open layout creates a casual, friendly vibe with a relaxed beach-town feel. Shrimp tacos are juicy and well-seasoned, while fish tacos offer flaky, lightly battered fish with crisp cabbage and creamy sauce. Big salsa bar adds fresh, bold flavors to generous portions.

Shrimp tacos come juicy and well-seasoned with bursting flavor. Fish tacos feature flaky, lightly battered or grilled fish with crisp cabbage and creamy sauce. Blackened fish tacos and bowls offer fresh, tasty options with authentic flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and consistently excellent."

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

"The fish tacos here are flaky, flavorful, and fresh."

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.

06
California Fish Grill image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood shines with crispy fish sandwiches and Cajun-seasoned tacos that blend bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Casual, friendly vibe with quick service and metal seating suits groups well. Prices stay affordable, making it a great spot for tasty, budget-friendly meals.

Fish and shrimp tacos stand out with Cajun seasoning and miso slaw adding unique flavors. Prices range from about $4.75 to $10, offering good value for quality seafood.

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 seafood tacos 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.

07
Birrieria Guadalajara image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic birria tacos like Triple Tacos and Quesobirria with a rich Consume for dipping. Interior is clean and comfortable with plenty of indoor seating and parking. Atmosphere stays calm and fresh, perfect for focused dining.

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

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

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

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

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.

08
Elys Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small street taco truck serves fresh local tacos like al pastor and chorizo with spicy habanero salsa. Offers an authentic Southern California vibe in a family-friendly, casual setting. Limited parking and cash-only add to its straightforward, late-night convenience.

Street tacos come fresh with local ingredients like meat, onions, and cilantro. Favorites include al pastor, chicken, and chorizo, all served with a spicy habanero salsa that adds a nice kick.

People are saying

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

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

"The spicy salsa here really set the tacos off."

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.

09
La Carniceria Wagyu - Costa Mesa image 1

Butcher shop deli offers high-quality halal meats with a modern, clean design and cozy seating. Birria tacos are exceptionally flavorful, while Wagyu ribeye tacos deliver a rich beef experience. Portion sizes are generous and freshness is guaranteed.

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."

"The Wagyu Pastrami sandwich is really good."

"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.

3

Everything on the menu is Halal.

10
Tacos & Carnitas Pepe’s image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with authentic carnitas and traditional breakfast tacos. Tacos offer meat-loaded portions like al pastor and lengua at reasonable prices. Casual vibe in a small shopping center with easy parking.

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 amazing and authentic Mexican."

"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.

11
Tacos Madre Mexican Cocina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot shines with handmade tortillas and amazing fish tacos. Vibrant vibe with Frida Kahlo mural and lively Spanish music creates a family-friendly atmosphere. Limited seating keeps it cozy and local.

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 found the fish tacos to be amazing."

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

"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.

12
El Campeon Carniceria #2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Hole-in-the-wall spot serves authentic Mexican street tacos with standout al pastor and carne asada options. Small space buzzes with a local vibe and offers homemade tortillas alongside fresh meats. Prices stay very reasonable, and bilingual staff help with orders.

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 al pastor tacos were stellar."

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

"The salsa here is stacked with meat and onions."

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.

13
El Toro Bravo Tortilleria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Large boilers make homemade tortillas and chips in a busy, no-frills spot with limited seating. Tacos feature massive meat portions, especially the tender, juicy carnitas. Despite some unsanitary conditions, the place offers authentic Mexican flavors and generous servings that draw long lines.

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 food portions here are generous and a great value."

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

"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.

14
Miguel's Jr. image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy Mexican spot shines with crispy taco shells and generous protein portions like shredded beef and chorizo eggs. Fresh carne asada and well-portioned chicken add flavor. Easy online ordering and an immaculate setting boost the positive vibe.

Tacos come with crispy shells and generous protein portions. Options include shredded beef, chicken, and breakfast tacos with chorizo and eggs, all packed with plenty of toppings and cheese.

People are saying

"I found the food to be good, fresh, and tasty."

"The garbage burrito here is spectacular and the best option."

"The crispy tacos here are delicious and amazing."

Good to know

1

The menu prices may not match the actual prices at checkout.

2

Breakfast burritos are not served after 11am.

3

The restaurant and bathrooms are consistently clean.

15
Wahoo's Fish Taco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot with a modern design and a family-friendly vibe. Fish tacos are generous portions, grilled or fried, paired well with sides like black beans. Cali-inspired menu offers healthy, tasty combos at fair prices.

Fish tacos come with a good amount of fish and are available grilled or fried. Combos like the 80s fish taco with red chicken enchilada and sides such as black beans and white spiced rice are common choices.

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."

"The fish tacos here are delicious and have 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.

16
Jack in the Box image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food spot near a busy intersection shines with natural light and small palm trees outside. Tacos offer affordable prices and the super taco stands out for value. Enjoy customizable drinks from the Freestyle soda machine while listening to pleasant music.

Tacos come with affordable prices and include meat, lettuce, cheese, and taco sauce. The super taco offers good value and stands out among the options.

People are saying

"I found the food to be good and what I expected."

"I loved their tacos, especially the taco sauce and meat."

"I loved the super taco; it's the best bang for your buck."

Good to know

1

This location offers the cheapest price for two tacos in the area.

2

Good service is frequently mentioned by customers at this location.

3

The super taco provides excellent value for money.

17
Vegan By El Zamorano image 1
Vegan restaurant

Small spot with dog-friendly patio and Mexican decor offers a clean, welcoming vibe. Tacos shine with homemade corn tortillas and tasty vegan fillings like potato and beans. Fish and carnitas tacos add authentic texture and flavor.

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

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

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

"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.

18
Shuck Oyster Bar image 1

Oyster bar shines with fresh shellfish and laid-back atmosphere. Small tacos pack ahi and lobster flavors that taste great and offer good value. Outdoor seating welcomes dogs, making it a cozy spot for seafood lovers.

Small tacos highlight ahi and lobster fillings with strong seafood flavors. Tacos offer great taste and good value for the price.

People are saying

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

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

"The ahi tacos here were incredible and tasty."

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.

19
Alejandro's Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican fast food spot offers loaded burritos and flavorful tacos with generous meat. Drive-thru and fair prices keep a steady crowd despite a run-down feel. Rolled tacos with guacamole add a tasty twist for taco lovers.

Shredded beef and crispy chicken tacos come loaded with meat and have the right amount of toppings. Rolled tacos with guacamole add a tasty twist, making them a solid choice for taco lovers.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were the best ever."

"I've never had a chorizo burrito loaded up like this before."

"The drive-thru has great food at amazing prices."

Good to know

1

The drive-thru is fast and convenient for quick meals.

2

Portion sizes are generous, providing good value for the price.

3

Prices are fair for the quality of food offered.

20
Mercado González Northgate Market image 1

Mexican grocery store buzzes with live mariachi music and a full bar inside. Fish tacos near the sushi corner shine with fresh-made salsas adding vibrant flavor. Outdoor seating offers a quaint touch blending shopping and entertainment.

Fish tacos near the sushi corner stand out with fresh flavors. Tacos come with fresh-made salsas that add a vibrant kick. Options include asada and pollo tacos, all served with classic sides like rice and beans.

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 loved their chicken tacos and fish 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.

21
Tacos El Compita image 1
Taco restaurant

Food truck serves Mexican street tacos with lean meats like carne asada and fresh salsas. Prices stay fair and stable. Atmosphere is casual and clean, but location varies so customers must confirm presence.

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

"The food here is amazing, with great flavor and freshness."

"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.

22
Los primos Cantina #2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy spot serves large portions of authentic Mexican food with adventurous meat tacos that pack bold flavors. Vibrant atmosphere invites diners despite challenging parking. Prices are higher but match the quality ingredients and generous servings.

Tacos come in big portions with adventurous meat options. Four street tacos cost about $15 plus tip, offering very tasty flavors.

People are saying

"I ordered a breakfast burrito that cost $15.00."

"I loved the big, tasty tacos here."

"I ordered a carnitas burrito and it was super delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging near the restaurant.

2

The breakfast burrito costs $15.

3

Portions are generous at this restaurant.

23
Mi Casa image 1
Mexican restaurant

Old school Mexican spot offers huge shredded beef tacos and strong margaritas in a family-friendly, cozy atmosphere. Open, airy layout includes a bar with large game screens. Taco Tuesday brings notable nachos alongside classic tacos.

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."

"It's so kid-friendly; we celebrated all our birthdays here for years."

"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.

24
Fresca's Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Hole-in-the-wall spot offers authentic tacos with fresh meats and crispy tacos as a favorite. Enjoy a pleasant patio and a salsa bar that complements affordable, flavorful meals.

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 thought the food here was great."

"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.

25
Super A's Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine in a lively, family-friendly spot with a homey vibe. Tacos shine with Chile Verde and come with lunch specials including soup. Energy peaks during sports, making it a great place for Taco Tuesday bargains and pairing tacos with favorite beers.

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."

"The enchiladas here are delicious and Kid Friendly."

"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.

26
Tres Muchachos Wine Bar & Kitchen image 1

Small Mexican spot shines with pork belly tacos and steak tacos that pack rich flavor. Live DJs create a chill vibe while outdoor patio with heaters offers a relaxing atmosphere. Modern, artful space feels welcoming and lighthearted.

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 food was phenomenal and awesome."

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

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

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.

27
Rubio's Coastal Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant serves fresh fish tacos with bold toppings and blackened options. Atmosphere is themed and clean, offering indoor and outdoor seating. Prices stay affordable, making it a quick, tasty spot for seafood lovers.

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

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

"I thought the fish tacos were delicious and fresh."

"These fish tacos are 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.

28
Los Primos Cantina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy generous carnitas tacos and huge veggie tacos that are both tasty and affordable. Fresh salsa and toppings bar adds vibrant flavor to every dish. Expect a cozy spot with large portions and a menu full of flavorful, reasonably priced options.

Carnitas tacos come in generous portions and taste excellent. Veggie tacos are huge, cheap, and very delicious. Red sauce Brita tacos add variety to the menu.

People are saying

"The tacos here are huge, cheap, and delicious."

"I found the breakfast burritos to be to die for."

"The salsa and toppings bar adds delicious flavor."

Good to know

1

The prices at Los Primos Cantina are reasonable for the portion sizes.

2

There is limited seating available, so arrive early to avoid waiting.

3

The portions are very large, making it a good value for the price.

29
Turner's Pub 33 image 1
Sports bar

Small sports bar buzzes with Diamond pool tables and big screen TVs showing games and UFC fights. Taco lady serves fresh tacos on select days, paired perfectly with a wide beer selection. Enjoy food and drinks on a well-lit patio with a friendly vibe and bikini-clad waitresses.

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 bar staff's warm smiles and friendly conversation made my visit delightful."

"I was happy playing on the Diamond pool tables."

"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.

30
PRADERA BRUNCH image 1
Restaurant

Sophisticated space with warm lighting and tasteful cow decor sets an inviting vibe. Fish tacos shine with excellent quality Mahi Mahi, while pork belly and asada tacos fall short. Indoor and outdoor seating offer a relaxed atmosphere for casual dates or brunch.

Fish tacos show excellent quality with tasty Mahi Mahi options. Pork belly tacos come extremely salty and only good for a couple of bites, while asada tacos have a spoiled smell and chewy meat.

People are saying

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

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

"The service for our Taco was excellent and attentive."

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.

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Costa Mesa, California

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