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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Lake Forest

Mexican and taco spots

You want a taco that stays true to the classic Mexican preparation you expect.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Mr. G's Tacos image 1
Mr. G's Tacos image 2
Mr. G's Tacos image 3
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Taco restaurant

Small taco restaurant offers a family-run atmosphere with modern, clean design and pleasant background music. The vibe is welcoming and casual, with generous portions and a variety of flavorful tacos and house-made salsas. Prices are reasonable, and the space feels bright and well cared for.

Three tacos sampler offers a variety of flavors including al pastor, barbacoa, and carne asada. The vegetable taco features unique, flavorful ingredients, and the salsas are refreshing and delicious.

Tacos feature top-notch meat like carne asada, carnitas, and birria with rich flavors. The vegetable taco offers a unique, flavorful twist not found elsewhere. Friendly service recommends trying three tacos to sample different tastes.

People are saying

"It's family owned and the staff are so friendly and helpful."

"These tacos are the best I've had in a long time."

"The carne asada tacos are full of meat and made with care."

Good to know

1

Each taco costs $4.50.

2

I paid $12.50 for three tacos, which is a good deal.

3

The restaurant is very clean.

02
La Tia Tacos & More Foothill Ranch image 1

Restaurant offers a home kitchen atmosphere with loud, blaring music creating a lively vibe. A salsa bar adds variety and freshness to meals. Tacos feature fresh ingredients and unique options like dipping in broth, setting it apart from typical Mexican eateries.

Tacos come with flavorful and juicy carne asada on traditional corn tortillas. The salsa bar offers many varieties with fresh toppings. Burritos like shrimp and blackened fish taste refreshing and authentic. Quesabirria tacos stand out as very delicious.

Tacos here focus on traditional flavors with options like carne asada, birria, and carnitas. Soft corn tortillas hold juicy, flavorful fillings including beef, chicken, fish, and quesabirria varieties.

People are saying

"You have to try the blackened fish tacos; they're a must-try."

"These quesabirria tacos are to die for."

"I warned others to get their potato tacos before I bought them all."

Good to know

1

They have Taco Tuesday with tacos costing $2 each.

2

You place your order at the counter, and they bring the food right to your table.

3

The cost averages around $10 per person for lunch.

03
La Casita Olvera image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant combines lively atmosphere with vibrant decor and a nice patio for outdoor dining. Sports play on multiple TVs, creating a fun environment that feels like a party. Margaritas stand out as a highlight alongside flavorful tacos and other dishes.

Street style tacos cost around $1 each with self-serve toppings and include options like carne asada, burria, carnitas, fish, and El Pastor. Combination plates feature items like chili relleno and beef taquitos served with rice and beans, while margaritas come in flavors such as lavender, watermelon, mango, jalapeรฑo lime, and blackberry.

Street tacos cost around $1 each with options like carne asada, carnitas, and El Pastor. Tacos come with self-serve toppings and pair well with margaritas.

People are saying

"I found the food to be really good and authentic Mexican."

"The tacos here are so delicious, especially the steak and carnitas."

"I love the $1 tacos on Tuesdays."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays feature $1 street tacos.

2

The Sunday buffet offers made-to-order food items.

3

Expect a wait of over 30 minutes during peak dinner hours.

04
Lupe's Mexican Eatery image 1

Small indoor space with newly renovated decor and wall art creates a local, casual vibe. Outdoor seating is plentiful, complementing the salsa bar that offers customizable spice levels. Background music adds to the lively atmosphere, though the inside can get loud.

Authentic Mexican food shines through with dishes like the surf n turf burrito and pastor tacos that pair well with beer. Unique options like smoked tuna burrito and seafood tacos add variety beyond typical menus.

Seafood tacos include grilled and beer-battered fish options not found elsewhere. The pastor tacos offer a unique flavor that pairs well with beer. Tacos and burritos here stand out for their high quality.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and plentiful."

"The Mexican Food here is great, thanks to the friendly staff."

"Maritza was so friendly and helpful with our Taco order."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour offers $2 bottled beers and half-price appetizers.

2

Taco Tuesday provides a $1 discount on most tacos.

3

All tacos are $1 off except for the signature tacos.

05
La Cocina De Ricardo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, quaint Mexican restaurant with warm, inviting interior and authentic Mexican music sets a chill, home-like vibe. Casual atmosphere feels like stepping into old Mexico, attracting those seeking genuine flavors and a cozy setting. Outdoor seating adds a relaxed option for dining.

Authentic Mexican food shines with moist chicken enchiladas and a carnitas tostada salad praised for its flavor. Drinks like mango and strawberry margaritas complement dishes such as menudo, chicken molรฉ, and al pastor tacos.

Steak tacos and tacos callejeros stand out with well seasoned, fresh flavors. Options include crispy and soft tacos, plus unique choices like octopus tacos and al pastor, all served with tasty sides like beans and Spanish rice.

People are saying

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

"I found the crispy tacos to be incredibly delicious."

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

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features a lively crowd and special menu items.

2

Expect generous portions with every meal.

3

The menu includes a wide range of classic Mexican options.

06
Jack in the Box image 1
Fast food restaurant

Dining room stays immaculate and inviting despite a tense atmosphere with minimal interaction. Food arrives fast and offers best quality for money, especially notable are the tacos and egg rolls. Extra sauce costs extra unless ordered through the app, which waives the charge.

Tacos stand out with exceptional flavor and generous portions. The friendly drive-thru service adds to the experience, even during early hours.

Tacos here stand out for their exceptional taste and quality. The drive-thru service is friendly and efficient, even with large orders like 14 tacos.

People are saying

"I found the food to be really good and always fresh."

"These tacos are the best I've ever had."

"Vita at the drive-thru was so cheerful with my Mexican food order."

Good to know

1

Extra sauce costs 25 cents each, but ordering through the app may waive this fee.

2

The restaurant is known for its fast service.

3

There are signs indicating that extra sauce costs extra.

07
Hole in the Wall Burger image 1
Fast food restaurant

Small, hole-in-the-wall fast food spot with a casual, laid-back atmosphere and a family-owned feel. The space is clean and comfortable despite a modest, somewhat tired interior. It draws a steady, moderate crowd and stands out for its excellent burgers and unique menu items.

Tacos feature Halal meat with chicken and steak options paired with a bomb green sauce. Carne asada appears in tacos, quesadillas, and fries, all seasoned well and served with fresh sides like Spanish rice, crunchy chips, and guacamole with a hint of jalapeรฑo.

Uses Halal meat for tacos, which is rare. Chicken and steak tacos come with a bomb green sauce. Carne asada taco plate features perfectly seasoned meat and fresh sides.

People are saying

"I thought their burgers were the best."

"The Mexican food here is served with genuine heart and enthusiasm."

"Ricky's enthusiasm made the tacos unforgettable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is Halal, and the meat used in the dishes is Halal.

2

Prices are reasonable, with a fried chicken sandwich, fries, and soda costing $15.

3

Combos are listed at $14.99 but may ring up at $15.59.

08
Cuca's Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating offers a casual and relaxed vibe with Spanish music enhancing the atmosphere. A salsa bar adds a lively touch, attracting those who enjoy flavorful accompaniments. The place draws people looking for affordable Mexican dishes with a friendly, easygoing environment.

Tacos come in crispy chicken and soft fish options with a $3 Taco Tuesday deal. Enchiladas stand out for their balanced sauce and come with rice and beans. Burritos like shrimp and fiesta fill out the menu with authentic Mexican flavors at reasonable prices.

Tacos come with a $3 deal on Taco Tuesday and offer crispy chicken or soft fish options. Plenty of salsa choices let you load up your tacos with different sauces.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is authentic and tastes like home cooking."

"I thought the chicken tacos here were great."

"I thought the tacos were great and delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers $3 tacos, making it a great deal.

2

Kids eat free on Wednesdays with the purchase of an adult meal and drink.

3

The restaurant has a large parking lot that is easy to access.

09
Tula Market image 1
Grocery store

Small grocery store offers fresh Mexican ingredients and affordable prices. Outdoor seating provides a casual spot to enjoy meals. Weekend menudo and specialty tacos like tongue and carnitas with cueritos stand out.

Tacos stand out with exquisite tongue and flavorful carnitas with cueritos. Menudo appears on weekends and offers a tasty option. Ingredients show consistent quality and taste.

Tacos come with a high price of $5.49 each. Tongue tacos stand out as exquisite. Overall, tacos deliver excellent flavor.

People are saying

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

"The menudo here is so delicious and tasty."

Good to know

1

Parking is available nearby, but it can fill up quickly.

2

Bring cash as some vendors may not accept cards.

3

The market is usually busiest on weekends, expect crowds.

10
Las Fajitas Restaurant Lake Forest image 1

Small Mexican restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating offers a pleasant atmosphere and fresh made-to-order food. Large portions come with a variety of salsas and warm, fresh chips. The vibe stays quiet even during typical dining times.

Breakfast burritos go beyond eggs, meat, and cheese with a complex flavor profile. The salsa bar offers a good variety and the menu includes Green Chilaquiles, tamales, and fajitas with a modern, fresh twist.

Pastor tacos stand out with solid flavor and good stuffing. Pork tacos cost $13 for two but come dry and lack flavor.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and super fresh."

"The salsa bar has a good variety and is well stocked."

"I had the tacos and they were pretty good and well stuffed."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers 24oz beers for $6.50.

2

Everything is made to order and very fresh.

3

Portions are large and provide excellent value.

11
Morena's Mexican Cuisine image 1

Restaurant offers a clean, spacious interior with a warm, inviting atmosphere and live mariachis on Sundays. Bar area features several TVs often showing sports, creating a casual vibe. Separate banquet room accommodates private events, adding versatility to the space.

Mole chicken stands out with tender meat and a rich, savory sauce. Chips come with salsa served automatically, and margaritas offer options with higher-quality tequila or adjusted sweetness.

Taco Tuesday offers a two-choice meal with great tacos. Combo plates with tacos and enchiladas come at a reasonable price.

People are saying

"This Mexican food is so delicious, I took leftovers home."

"The Mexican food here is so authentic, I can tell."

"I found Taco Tuesday to be absolutely amazing."

Good to know

1

A 20% service charge is added for large parties, which may not be disclosed upfront.

2

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos and is very popular.

3

Mariachi performances occur every Sunday at noon, enhancing the dining experience.

12
California Fish Grill image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small, casual seafood spot with rustic wooden tables and a vibe that shifts from chill to lively. Ordering happens through kiosks or app, speeding up the process. Known for freshly prepared fish dishes and healthy options, it offers a fast-food feel with better quality seafood.

Fish tacos stand out with Baja style and Cajun shrimp and fish options. Lunch deals include two tacos, two sides, and a drink, offering flavorful and filling meals.

Fish tacos come with Cajun seasoning, roasted corn, and a green goddess drizzle. Options include Cajun Salmon, Cajun Shrimp, and Baja fish tacos, all served with cabbage mix, diced tomato, cilantro, and pickled onion.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, high-quality, and delicious."

"I found the fish tacos to be very good and filling."

"The fish tacos here are delicious and filling."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; expect a wait during busy hours.

2

Parking can be difficult in the shopping center, so arrive early.

3

Ordering from kiosks or the app is quick and easy.

13
Avila's El Ranchito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Eclectic Mexican restaurant with tiki decor and a lively atmosphere filled with loud noise from large groups. Big margaritas and authentic dishes create a festive vibe, while a fish tank adds visual interest for children.

Carnitas and chili verde burrito stand out with authentic flavors and tender meat. Crispy chicken tacos, homemade guacamole, and carne asada with shrimp add variety to the family-style Mexican food served here.

Street tacos stand out with flavorful steak and crispy chicken options. The menu includes caldo, flautas, and sides like chips, salsa, and guacamole that complement the tacos well.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was usually excellent."

"The Mexican Food margaritas here are amazing."

"I'd get these street tacos again, they were very good."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers great deals on select menu items.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere after 5 p.m.; arrive early to secure a table.

3

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

14
Taqueria Las Alondras image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with humble seating and no air conditioning offers a clean but dive-like atmosphere under bright white lights without music. The energy feels casual and unpolished, with a focus on authentic flavors rather than comfort or decor. Tacos stand out as delicious and well-prepared, often favored over other dishes.

Tacos feature finely chopped carne asada, cilantro, and onions mixed into refried beans for a fresh, authentic taste. Taco Tuesday offers small tacos with a wide variety of out of this world salsas at fair prices.

Small tacos stand out on Taco Tuesday with a wide variety of sauces and special deals. Prices can be high, with three tacos costing around $17.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was truly tasty and delicious."

"The Mexican Food here is great; the owner is so friendly."

"The owner's friendly vibe makes the tacos special."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers great deals with a variety of sauces available.

2

Expect a small seating area; takeout is a better option.

3

Prices are reasonable, with three tacos costing around $17.

15
Tacos Ensenada image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers self-service salsa bar with multiple salsa options and ice-cold horchatas. Atmosphere feels pleasant with friendly staff and recently expanded indoor seating. Food includes authentic tacos with well-seasoned meat and generous portions.

Tacos feature generous meat portions like tacos de lengua and taco pastor, with carne asada that is fat and juicy. Menudo stands out as clean and authentic, complemented by a salsa bar offering at least four different salsas and complimentary chips and beans.

Tacos come huge and generous with meat, especially the carne asada and tacos de lengua. Fish tacos are fresh and flavorful, while taco pastor and chicken offer solid variety. No toppings come with the tacos, so bringing your own is common.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and served in large portions."

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is huge and packed with well-seasoned meat."

"The tacos here are huge and packed with meat."

Good to know

1

Tacos Ensenada offers affordable pricing for traditional Mexican food.

2

Credit card payments incur an extra charge.

3

The menu features a large selection of traditional Mexican dishes.

16
Taqueria De Anda-Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating includes a great patio area that enhances the dining experience. Mariachi music plays softly, creating a cool and chill atmosphere. The place stays open late, making it suitable for quick lunches or late-night dinners.

Authentic Mexican food shines with tacos de cabeza, asada, and burrito de lengua. Fast, affordable meals include spicy tacos, churros, and carnitas nachos served with fresh salsa, pico, and guacamole.

Tacos come with super juicy meats and generous portions. Options like tacos de cabeza, asada, and quesabirria stand out, with spicy versions available and Taco Tuesdays offering $1.60 each.

People are saying

"These street tacos are loaded with juicy, flavorful fillings."

"The Mexican food here is mostly rice, not meat."

"The carne asada here is so juicy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays cost $1.60 each.

2

The restaurant is open 24 hours for late-night dining.

3

A 3% fee is charged for using a credit card.

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