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Local picks

Tacos in Balboa Peninsula

You know exactly what a proper taco should taste like and refuse to settle for anything less.

Based on 505 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Great Mex Grill image 1
Great Mex Grill image 2
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Mexican restaurant

Small dining room creates a lively vibe with authentic Sonoran style food. Shrimp tacos on flour tortillas shine, especially on Taco Tuesdays with great prices. House-made margaritas add to the chill, casual crowd atmosphere.

Shrimp tacos stand out with flour tortillas and a quick service despite busy times. Taco Tuesdays offer tacos at about $2 each, making them both tasty and affordable.

People are saying

"The Mexican food, especially the tacos, is outstanding and tasty."

"I found the burrito here to be delicious and tasty."

"I found the tacos here to be amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays and Fridays offer $2 street tacos.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Online ordering is recommended to avoid long lines.

02
Class of 47 image 1
Cocktail bar

Classic dive bar with John Wayne decor and two pool tables offers a laid-back vibe and friendly crowd. Outdoor patio pairs well with flavorful tacos from the nearby cart. Large jukebox adds bursts of energy to the chill atmosphere.

Tacos from the outdoor stand offer a satisfying and flavorful bite. The taco cart serves really delicious and awesome tacos that complete the visit.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are so friendly and welcoming."

"It's a cool, chill place with laid-back people."

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

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging due to its location in the Fun Zone.

2

No food is served, but a taco truck is available on weekends.

3

Expect a fun, lively crowd, especially on weekends.

03
Tacos Cancun image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small beachfront taco joint offers fresh shrimp tacos and authentic Mexican flavors with many plant-based options. Outdoor tables provide sunset views and a warm, artistic vibe with pleasant music. Busy sidewalk seating near the beach creates a lively, diverse crowd.

Shrimp, fish, and carne asada tacos stand out with fresh flavors and generous fillings. Tacos come with salsa and chips, and three tacos plus a soda cost about $10.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so fresh and delicious."

"You can get great vegan chicken and ground beef tacos here."

"The tacos here are big, fresh, and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a separate vegan menu with tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and torta.

2

Vegan meats available are beef, chicken, and soyrizo.

3

Expect a casual beachside dining experience with outdoor seating.

04
Carnitas La Villa image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy spot serves generous portions of authentic Mexican food. Tacos shine with rich fillings and a favorite is the Taco Langua. Affordable prices and a family-owned feel make it welcoming and simple.

Tacos come with generous fillings and a good amount of cheese, though some might find it a bit much. The Taco Langua stands out as a favorite dish.

People are saying

"The food here is pretty good and delicious."

"I thought this was the best Mexican food on the peninsula."

"The tacos here are generously filled."

Good to know

1

Parking is available across the street in front of West Marine.

2

The restaurant is family owned and offers affordable prices.

3

Tuesday deals are available, making it a good day to visit.

05
Baja Sharkeez image 1
Restaurant

Sports bar buzzes with lively party atmosphere and endless chips and salsa. Shrimp and fish tacos shine, especially blackened mahi mahi and Baja tacos. Beach-themed decor and ocean views add a relaxing vibe to strong margaritas and Bloody Marys.

Shrimp and fish tacos stand out with lightly fried and blackened mahi mahi options. Mango Mahi and Baja tacos offer bold flavors and fresh seafood tastes.

People are saying

"It's a fun bar with a lively, casual beach vibe."

"I found the fish tacos here to be incredible."

"I found the fish tacos to be incredible."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink specials.

2

Monday Night Football features happy hour pricing for drinks.

3

Minors are not allowed after a certain time.

06
Chronic Tacos Newport Beach Balboa image 1

Cozy spot near the beach serves flavorful carne asada and delicious fish tacos in a casual, family-friendly setting. Fresh churros add a sweet touch while beach city music keeps the vibe relaxed. Many order to go, keeping the space calm and inviting.

Tacos here offer flavorful carne asada and absolutely delicious fish options. The spot feels like a fun fast food joint near the beach with consistently excellent tacos.

People are saying

"I highly recommend this place for Mexican food."

"I thought the burritos here were amazing and packed with flavor."

"I was blown away by how flavorful and fresh the fish tacos were."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has limited seating, especially during peak hours.

2

Restrooms are frequently out of order, so plan accordingly.

3

You can customize your plate with various fillings.

07
Palmilla Cocina y Tequila image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot boasts an open-air dining vibe with a retractable roof and island-style giant table. Tacos shine with filet mignon and short rib options packed with bold flavors. Lively atmosphere features a DJ and cozy lighting, perfect for socializing and people watching.

Floured tortillas hold filet mignon street tacos and short rib crunchy tacos packed with bold flavors. Halibut tacos come healthy and flavorful, paired well with ice cold Happy Dad Fruit Punch.

People are saying

"You have to try the crab enchiladas; they're amazing."

"You have to try the fresh seafood, especially the shrimp taquitos."

"The filet mignon tacos here are outstanding."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant is often crowded.

2

Valet parking is available for $8, making access easier.

3

The restaurant turns into a bar at night with house and electronic music.

08
Cabo Cantina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot buzzes with colorful decor and ocean breeze. Taco Tuesday shines with all-you-can-eat tacos and standout Baja fish tacos. Giant margaritas and generous nachos fuel a lively, beachside party vibe.

Taco Tuesday offers all-you-can-eat tacos for around $10, making it a solid deal. The surf & turf tacos are gigantic, and the Baja style fish tacos stand out for their flavor.

People are saying

"You have to try the giant margaritas with the Mexican food."

"The happy hour drinks here are two for one and really tasty."

"I loved the all-you-can-eat tacos on Tuesday; it was a great deal."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 PM with buy one, get one free beers.

2

Two-for-one cocktails are available during happy hour.

3

Expect confusion around happy hour promotions; they may not always apply.

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Balboa Peninsula, Newport Beach

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