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Local picks in Newport Beach

Taco spots

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

Based on 604 Opinions
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01
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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

"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.

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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 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.

03
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Large seating area creates a warm, local vibe near shops and the bay. Tacos feature Carne Asada and Octopus with fresh guacamole and pico de gallo on soft flour tortillas. Margaritas stand out with fresh mixers, making it a charming hidden gem.

Tacos come with Carne Asada, fish, and Octopus options, each packed with flavor. The Surf & Turf and shrimp tacos include guacamole and pico de gallo, all served on soft flour tortillas.

People are saying

"The carnitas and carne asada tacos were so tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3pm to 6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Taco Tuesday offers $5 tacos and drinks all day.

3

Margaritas are priced at $10.00 each.

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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

"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.

05
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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 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.

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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

"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.

07
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Mexican spot offers fresh chicken and affordable combos in a smoky atmosphere. Tacos al carbon deliver consistent flavor and pair well with horchata. Drive-thru is fast and easy, perfect for busy lunch hours.

Tacos al carbon stand out with consistent flavor and quality. Crispy tacos pair well with horchata drinks for a classic combo.

People are saying

"I believed their tacos had the best flavor."

Good to know

1

The combo prices at El Pollo Loco are quite affordable.

2

The drive-thru is fast and easy to use.

3

The restaurant is clean and well-maintained.

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Small, lively spot offers large portions with excellent vegetarian options and gluten-free choices. Tacos shine with flavorful meat and fresh fish, served fast at walk-up counters. Outdoor patio seating is available but can be cramped and less clean.

Tacos feature incredibly flavorful meat and fresh-cooked fish. Options like carne asada, pollo asada, and potato tacos offer great taste at reasonable prices with fast, efficient walk-up service.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were outstanding and the best in Orange County."

Good to know

1

Parking is readily available near the restaurant.

2

The restaurant offers takeout and outdoor seating.

3

Gluten-free items are clearly marked on the menu.

09
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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

"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.

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Expansive patio with gas fireplace and heat lamps sets a cozy vibe while live DJs spin trendy tunes. Tacos shine with blackened shrimp and fried cod, especially during happy hour with birria and grilled fish options. Indoor bar and TVs support lively group hangouts.

Tacos come with blackened shrimp, fried cod, and halibut options that stand out. Happy hour features birria tacos and grilled fish tacos, while beef tacos tend to be chewy and lack flavor.

People are saying

"I loved the fish tacos, especially the blackened shrimp."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 7pm with great deals on food and drinks.

2

Valet parking is available for $10, with limited self-parking options nearby.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere on Friday nights, especially for nightlife.

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Bright, fun interior with cozy booths and a glass atrium sets a beachy vibe. Tacos shine with hand-made tortillas and incredible flavors, made fresh before your eyes. Outdoor patio offers a relaxing spot to enjoy strong margaritas under blue skies.

Tacos come with hand-made tortillas and feature flavors that stand out as incredible and super delicious. Watching the staff prepare tacos right in front of you adds a unique touch to the experience.

People are saying

"I thought the surf and turf tacos were the best."

Good to know

1

Parking is fairly easy for lunch at Avila's El Ranchito.

2

I recommend making a reservation.

3

Our total bill for dinner for four people was $190 before tip.

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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 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.

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Outdoor seating creates a tropical vibe with live guitar music adding to the relaxed yet elegant feel. Blackened fish tacos deliver bold flavors while Ahi Tacos make a great appetizer. Modern decor and coastal views give a resort-like feel perfect for leisurely dining.

Blackened fish tacos stand out with bold flavors, alongside Ahi Tacos that serve well as an appetizer. Options like Mahi Mahi and fajita tacos offer variety and consistent quality.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the blackened fish tacos at the bar."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 3 to 6pm with food and drink specials.

2

Seating for happy hour is only available at the bar stools.

3

Parking is usually available nearby.

14
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Small interior with ocean breeze and views sets a lively mood. Tacos shine with unique Cheez-Its and pair well with margarita slurpy machine drinks. Atmosphere shifts from upbeat to cramped during events, making it a fun but cozy spot.

Good to know

1

Taco Bell Cantina offers alcohol and Cheez-It items not found at standard locations.

2

Expect higher prices for alcohol and Cheez-It items compared to regular menu items.

3

This location is a good option for late-night food and drinks.

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