Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Oakland

Mexican food

Mexican food that respects the tradition of the dish rather than just checking a box for a quick meal.

Based on 739 Opinions
+736
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Juice Joint Mexican Deli image 1
Juice Joint Mexican Deli image 2
Juice Joint Mexican Deli image 3
View all
Mexican restaurant

Mexican deli shines with breakfast burritos featuring chorizo and steak, paired with fresh salsa verde. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, perfect for quick, tasty meals. Prices stay reasonable, making it a lively spot for satisfying food.

Breakfast burritos stand out with chorizo and steak options and come with fresh salsa verde or habanero on the side. The mole and vegetarian burritos also offer delicious flavors at a great price.

People are saying

"I loved their breakfast burrito; it's the best Mexican food I've had."

"I thought the food was delicious and very fresh."

"I thought the breakfast burrito was the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Expect quick service with most meals prepared in under 10 minutes.

2

Prices are reasonable, with most dishes under $15.

3

The deli can get busy during lunch hours, so plan accordingly.

02
Los Compadres Tacos and Grill image 1

Taco truck serves delicious tacos and a surf and turf burrito with sides like pickled carrots. Prices offer good value and service is fast and friendly. Vegetarian options and crispy steak fries add tasty variety.

Tacos come out always delicious with options like surf and turf burrito and steak cheese fries standing out. Vegetarian burritos and crispy steak fries add variety, all served with fast, friendly service and good prices.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be super delicious and generously portioned."

"I found their vegetarian burrito to be excellent."

"I found the Mexican food here to be always delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco trucks typically accept cash and mobile payments, but check in advance.

2

Expect to pay around $10 for a meal at most taco trucks.

3

Taco trucks often have limited seating; plan to eat standing or take away.

03
El Tacostao image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small taqueria feels like a backyard gathering with cozy indoor and outdoor seating plus a kids' play structure nearby. Tacos boast handmade tortillas and generous meat, enhanced by a table of salsas for extra flavor. Menudo offers homemade taste with tripa and pata.

Tacos feature handmade tortillas and generous meat portions with a table of salsas and toppings that add a spicy kick. Menudo comes with homemade flavor and includes tripa and pata, served alongside large handmade tortillas.

People are saying

"The tacos here are delicious and authentic."

"This menudo soup has the best homemade taste and flavor."

"The tacos and consomé here are amazing."

Good to know

1

You can park directly on their property.

2

Payment options are limited to cash or Venmo.

3

The prices at El Tacostao are reasonable.

04
The Taco Panzon image 1
Taco restaurant

Tacos feature crispy carnitas and fresh salsas with vegetarian options like burritos. Portions come with lime and pickled carrot sides. The spot keeps a classy atmosphere while letting you customize spice levels.

Tacos stand out with crispy and moist carnitas and freshly made salsas. Vegetarian burritos and asada tacos offer solid options, all served with lime, cucumber, and pickled carrot for added flavor.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos were delicious and worth returning for."

"I found the tacos here to be delicious and worth returning for."

"I thought the carnitas were worth writing home about."

Good to know

1

They accommodate different spice levels and have vegetarian options.

2

The ingredients used at The Taco Panzon are fresh.

05
Tacos Al Pastor Estilo Puebla image 1

Sidewalk stand offers authentic tacos al pastor sliced fresh from the spit, paired with salsa verde that enhances flavor. Seating at big group tables creates a lively, picnic-like vibe. Prices stay affordable, focusing on quality over variety.

Tacos al pastor come from a spit, delivering authentic Mexican flavor that stands out in the Bay Area. The salsa verde complements the tacos perfectly, and prices stay very affordable.

People are saying

"I found the al pastor tacos to be 100% authentic Mexican flavor."

"I thought the food was one of the best bites I had anywhere."

"I found the al pastor tacos to be the best I've had in the Bay Area."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is only open Friday through Sunday and not too late.

2

Limited seating is available, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

The establishment accepts only cash, so come prepared.

06
LA GRANA FISH image 1
Mexican restaurant

Food truck offers laid-back atmosphere with picnic tables and a self-serve salsa bar. Fish tacos are crispy and authentic, capturing true Mexican flavors. Menu includes aguachiles rojos and birria tacos, all consistently fresh and tasty.

Fish tacos stand out with a crispy texture and authentic flavor reminiscent of CDMX. The menu also features aguachiles rojos, birria tacos, and batter-fried shrimp tacos that maintain consistent quality across visits.

People are saying

"I'd drive 45 minutes for these fish tacos."

"The Gobernador shrimp tacos were insane and excellent."

"The outdoor seating here is really relaxing and has a great vibe."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky; consider arriving early or using nearby BART.

2

Fish tacos are reasonably priced, around $10 each.

3

Happy hour specials are available, making it a great after-work stop.

07
Tacos Asi Es Colima image 1
Mexican restaurant

Affordable tacos shine with grilled tortillas and tasty salsas in a quiet, casual spot. Meat options like asada and al pastor bring bold flavors, while burritos pack a little heat without fillers. Minimal seating near the truck keeps it simple and laid-back.

Tacos feature a perfect balance of crisp tortilla and scrumptious meat with options like asada, al pastor, and cabeza. Burritos come packed with goodies and a little heat without fillers, and the horchata offers a good complement.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos were really good, especially the asada."

"This burrito is huge, packed with goodies, and has a little heat."

"I thought the tacos were really good, especially the al pastor."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in front of the food truck.

2

Expect no wait times around 6:30 PM on weeknights.

3

The food truck is located in a residential neighborhood.

08
Las Bonitas Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant serves huge burritos and heavily topped tacos with exceptionally good salsa. Cozy atmosphere fits quick lunches and brunch. Portions are large and prices reasonable, making it great for satisfying meals.

Large, satisfying burritos come with perfect ingredient proportions and reasonable prices. Flautas de papa and bacon breakfast burritos stand out alongside great carnitas and fish tacos.

People are saying

"This Breakfast Burrito is so big, I saved half for the next day."

"I loved the delicious fish taco here."

"I loved their huge breakfast burritos."

Good to know

1

They accept debit and credit cards for payment.

2

Prices are reasonable for the portion sizes offered.

3

The taqueria has been a local favorite for many years.

09
Tacos El Grullo ( Taco Truck ) image 1

Taco truck offers rich flavors and excellent sear on tacos like Al Pastor and tripe. Located in an industrial lot, it has a low-key atmosphere with a steady weekend crowd. Cash only, small portions, and a notably delicious horchata complete the experience.

Tacos here have excellent sear and rich, spicy flavors, especially the Al Pastor with a slight pineapple sweetness. The tripe and chorizo tacos stand out, along with tender Lengua paired with a unique salsa that is neither red nor green. Burritos are solid, and the horchata is notably delicious.

People are saying

"I thought the pastor tacos had an excellent sear."

"The food here is flavorful and really good."

"I thought their tacos and burritos were the best."

Good to know

1

The place is cash only.

2

The taco truck was busy nonstop on a Saturday night.

3

The parking lot was big enough for me to find a spot.

10
Taqueria El Paisa image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot buzzes with authentic tacos and a lively vibe. Family-friendly with indoor and outdoor seating, it features a self-serve salsa bar offering spicy options. The air fills with grilled meat aromas and classic Mexican tunes, making it a true neighborhood taqueria.

Tacos stand out with authentic flavors and Suadero is a highlight. Burritos also draw people from far away for their delicious taste.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and hits the spot."

"The tacos here are rich, delicious, and seasoned just right."

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is flavorful and well-seasoned."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on-site, but it can be difficult to find during peak hours.

2

Taco Tuesday features special deals, making it a popular night to visit.

3

The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

11
Mesa Maguey image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, casual space buzzes with lively dance floor playing salsa and cumbia. Tacos shine with thick handmade tortillas and standout barbacoa. Warm, funky decor offers comfort for couples and groups, with a back room perfect for events.

Tacos come with thick handmade tortillas and a nice green salsa, with barbacoa and asada standing out. The vegan burrito is perfectly cooked and consistent, drawing repeat visits.

People are saying

"These enchiladas verdes are the best Mexican food I've ever tasted."

"You have to try the tacos during Happy Hour; they're the best in Oakland."

"The cocktails here are the best I've had at a bar."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available every day with great deals on food and cocktails.

2

Reservations are recommended for larger parties, especially for the back room.

3

Portions are designed for one person, so order extra if you're a big eater.

12
Taqueria La Mejor image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, quaint spot offers authentic Mexican food with generous portions of tacos, burritos, and tamales. Neighborhood vibe shines through family-owned charm and cash-only simplicity. Clean, affordable, and welcoming for casual meals.

Generous portions of burritos, tacos, and chicken enchiladas with green sauce fill the menu. The tamales and birria also stand out, all served with authentic flavors and affordable prices.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"I thought the burritos here were the best I'd tried."

"You need cash to pay for the Mexican food here."

Good to know

1

Taqueria La Mejor accepts only cash payments; visit the ATM before going.

2

You can get a meal with 2 enchiladas, rice, beans, and tortillas for about $11.

3

They offer three sizes of burritos: Super, Regular, and Baby.

13
Cenaduria Elvira image 1
Mexican restaurant

Backyard seating creates a comfortable atmosphere perfect for enjoying authentic Mexican flavors like crunchy tacos and rich pozole. Simple space invites a crowd seeking small town Mexican food with bold, intense tastes.

Crunchy tacos and tacos dorados stand out with their crisp texture and rich cheese filling. Pozole offers a comforting, authentic flavor, while the tostada delivers a bold, intense taste experience.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was the best in the Bay."

"The tacos dorados were out of this world."

"I found the salsa to be super delicious."

Good to know

1

Cenaduria Elvira is known for authentic Mexican food.

2

It is located in the Fruitvale area, a short walk from public transport.

3

Outdoor seating is available for dining, but heaters are not installed.

14
Taqueria Los Altos image 1
Taco restaurant

Small, clean spot serves handmade tortillas and authentic Mexican flavors with quick service. Generous portions like massive burritos and a great salsa bar make it perfect for casual dining or takeout. Weekend specials offer hearty pozole that feels homemade.

Tacos come with handmade fresh tortillas and flavorful salsas that taste homemade. Burritos are massive, stuffed with rice, beans, meat, pico de gallo, and guacamole with a perfect kick of spice. Weekend specials include hearty pozole and menudo that taste like they were made in Abuela's kitchen.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos were incredible, especially the carnitas and carne asada."

"The salsa here tastes so fresh and authentic."

"These quesabirria tacos are so good, they're the best thing I ever had."

Good to know

1

The tacos are priced at $11 for two, with generous portions.

2

Expect food to be ready in 10-15 minutes during busy hours.

3

The restaurant includes a free cup of consomé with each meal.

15
Golondrinas Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Stylish, clean space with outdoor seating creates a quiet, family-friendly vibe. Mexican dishes like mole tamales and chilaquiles with green sauce shine alongside unique drinks such as agua de horchata with agua de fresa. Convenient parking adds to the easy experience.

Chilaquiles with green sauce and potatoes stand out as amazing and well-made. The menu features mole tamales, pupusas, and a chile relleno burrito that is extremely good. The agua de horchata mixed with agua de fresa offers a unique drink option.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"It's so convenient, they have their own parking lot."

"I thought the Mexican food here had the best burrito."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the restaurant complex itself.

2

The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor dining options.

3

Menudo is served on Saturday and Sunday.

16
El Potrillo Birrieria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy authentic Jalisco-style birria with juicy goat and lamb options. Lively mariachi bands create a festive vibe. A full-service bar adds to the vibrant, family-owned atmosphere perfect for breakfast and lunch.

Birria here is juicy and authentic, with styles like Guadalajara goat and lamb birria standing out. The super nachos with birria and tiny bean tacos add unique, flavorful options beyond the classic birria tacos.

People are saying

"The birria here is the best Mexican food I've ever had."

"The birria tacos here are excellent and juicy."

"I found the birria to be very delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

The parking lot is small, so I usually park on the street.

2

Expect busy hours during weekends, especially for lunch.

3

They offer a variety of birria options, including en consomé and en salsa.

17
Esquites Estilo D.F image 1

Mexico City-style esquites shine with tender corn and epazote seasoning. Chicken feet and hearts add rich texture and authentic flavor. Fresh green onions balance the heat from salsa and chili powder.

Mexico City-style esquites come with chicken feet, salsa, and chili powder. The elote and meats offer a unique yet familiar taste.

People are saying

"You have to try the Mexican Food esquites with tender corn and chicken feet."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect a wait of 30-60 minutes during peak dining hours.

3

The average cost per meal is around $20-$30.

18
Las Guerreras image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy fresh homemade flavors like barbacoa and green pozole in a lively market setting. Relax on the cute patio with your dog while live music plays. The self-service style and open seating create a happy, welcoming vibe perfect for lunch.

Chilaquiles stand out with red and weekend specials that stay consistently delicious. Barbacoa and green pozole offer fresh, homemade flavors, while the mole and enchiladas deliver rich, tasty experiences.

People are saying

"This is my new favorite lunch spot for delicious tamales."

"The Mexican food's ceviche was the best I've ever had."

"The patio area and open seating create a perfect vibe."

Good to know

1

Las Guerreras is located inside Swan’s Market in uptown Oakland.

2

The area gets packed at lunchtime, so plan accordingly.

3

Parking is street parking, so watch out for restrictions.

19
Yellow Door image 1

Small cafe buzzes with healthy, delicious food and reasonable pricing. Grilled breakfast burrito with turkey chorizo offers a tasty Mexican twist. Limited seating fills fast, creating a busy, efficient atmosphere perfect for quick meals.

Grilled breakfast burrito stands out with turkey chorizo and lots of cheese. It offers a flavorful twist on classic Mexican breakfast fare.

People are saying

"I was obsessed with the pastries here; I would have eaten them every day."

"I enjoyed the interesting salads here."

"This Mexican food breakfast burrito is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines on weekends, especially around 10:30am.

2

The cafe has limited seating, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

They offer a wide variety of breakfast and lunch options, including soups and salads.

20
Pupuseria Arte Usuluteco image 1
Salvadoran restaurant

Cozy Salvadoran spot shines with authentic pupusas and flavorful tortas. Family-friendly vibe and affordable prices make it welcoming. Lively music adds to the homey atmosphere.

Pupusas and tortas stand out for their high quality and flavor. Tortas offer a wonderful taste experience.

People are saying

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

"I thought the pupusas were delicious and authentic."

"The tortas and pupusas here are wonderful."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky, so plan accordingly.

2

Prices are very affordable compared to other places.

3

The restaurant maintains a high standard of cleanliness.

21
Taqueria El Grullo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a family atmosphere with shredded chicken burritos and green pastor enchiladas as highlights. It runs on a cash-only basis and serves food quickly at reasonable prices. Located in a busy neighborhood with parking available.

Shredded chicken burritos and green pastor enchiladas stand out on the menu. The red salsa pairs well with many dishes. Prices stay reasonable and service moves quickly.

People are saying

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

"I believed their shredded chicken burrito was the best."

"I believed this Mexican food was the best in all of Oakland."

Good to know

1

They have a parking lot available for customers.

2

Taqueria El Grullo accepts cash only for payments.

22
Coco Cafe Oakland image 1

Small cafe offers customizable breakfast burritos with fresh ingredients like guacamole and jalapeños. Early hours and affordable prices attract steady crowds. Quaint, New York deli vibe creates a cozy spot for hearty meals.

Breakfast burritos come with choice of meat, eggs, tomatoes, cheese, guacamole, and jalapeños. Customization lets you add or remove ingredients. Prices stay low while flavors stay delicious.

People are saying

"I loved the breakfast burrito with meat, eggs, and guacamole."

"I ordered a vanilla latte with my breakfast burrito."

"I found the California Breakfast Sandwich to be sooo amazing."

Good to know

1

Coco Cafe Oakland opens at 7am, which is helpful for early risers.

2

The cafe also functions as a general store with packaged snacks and desserts.

3

There is limited seating available, so plan accordingly.

23
Temescal Farmer's Market image 1

Farmers market offers fresh produce and street tacos with bold flavors. Live music adds to the family-friendly vibe. Parking nearby is available but may require patience.

Street tacos stand out with fresh flavors. Morning tacos from Cholita Linda pop-ups add variety. Tamales and pizza appear at the farmer's market offering more options.

People are saying

"The Market has an amazing selection of fresh produce and baked goods."

"I found the freshest produce and eggs at great prices."

"The Mexican Food's produce is fresh and fabulous."

Good to know

1

The market takes place in the DMV parking lot every Sunday from 9 am to 2 pm.

2

Many vendors at the market do not accept cash; check payment options in advance.

3

Parking can take time to find; consider arriving early.

24
Ghost Town Brewing - Laurel Biergarten & Kitchen image 1

Outdoor patio with sunny seating and heating lamps sets a lively, family-friendly vibe. Bold shrimp tacos and crunchy fish tacos shine alongside quesadillas. Unique artwork and eclectic music add character to this casual spot.

Shrimp tacos stand out with their bold flavor. Fish tacos offer a crunchy and juicy bite that pairs well with quesadillas and grain bowls.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great beer selection they offered."

"The outdoor seating is great for pups and kids."

"The fish tacos here are so crunchy and juicy."

Good to know

1

New brews are introduced every Friday, perfect for beer enthusiasts.

2

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm, offering a fun experience.

3

Street parking is the only option available, so plan accordingly.

25
El Charro Super Mercado image 1
Mexican grocery store

Mexican grocery store shines with fresh fruits and exotic produce. Meat counters offer grilled pork ribs and carnitas full of flavor. Outside, a taco truck grills al pastor and chicken tacos every morning, creating a lively vibe.

Carnitas and ribs stand out for their flavor. The taco truck grills fresh meats every morning, serving al pastor and chicken tacos that taste great.

People are saying

"The staff at this grocery store are always welcoming and helpful."

"The pollo asado at this Market is delicious."

"You have to try the carnitas; they're really delicious."

Good to know

1

They have exotic fruits that are hard to find elsewhere.

2

The taco truck outside grills fresh meats every morning.

3

The market offers a wide variety of meats, vegetables, and fresh fruits.

26
Benyjuana Tacos image 1
Taco restaurant

Dark, sketchy street sets a raw urban vibe with authentic Mexican roots. Tacos shine with generous pastor and brisket fillings and simple, savory flavors. Prices run high and parking is tough, adding to the gritty experience.

Tacos cost about three bucks each and come with generous fillings like pastor and brisket. The style is simple, savory, and south of the border, making for a delicious and satisfying meal.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos were the best Mexican food I've ever eaten."

"I thought the tacos here were the best I've ever eaten."

Good to know

1

A taco costs $10, while similar items elsewhere are around $3.50.

2

The small drink is priced at $6.50, which may feel overpriced.

3

Parking can be challenging at this location.

27
Jalisco Méxican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican takeout shines with tender carnitas and well-seasoned burritos packed full. Parking is tough and side dishes cost more. Seating is dim and cluttered, mostly unused.

Carnitas stand out as tender and moist, often described as the best in town. Burritos come packed with plenty of well-seasoned meat, including options like chili verde, cueritos, and buche, plus tasty veggie choices.

People are saying

"I found the carnitas to be the best I ever had."

"I've never had a better chili verde burrito; it was the best."

"I found the carnitas to be the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Jalisco is only open on weekends, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Parking can be tricky, so arrive early to find a spot.

3

Prices for sides, like a pound of beans, are quite high.

28
Los Mexicanos Bakery No.2 image 1

Bread tastes unique and fresh with conchas selling out early. Tortas de jamon are simple and hearty, perfect for a filling meal. Rich tres leches cake offers a sweet finish, making it a great spot for authentic Mexican bakery treats.

Simple, hearty tortas de jamon fuel long days and come at a fair price. The tres leches cake offers a sweet finish that stands out.

People are saying

"I found the bread to be good and always fresh."

"The Mexican food here, especially the tortas, is simple and hearty."

Good to know

1

Arrive early to get the best concha before they sell out.

2

Expect a line during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Bring cash as some vendors may not accept cards.

29
Taqueria 16 De Septiembre image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot shines with best-in-area tacos de cabeza and excellent burritos. Cash-only policy keeps prices low. Spicy chile de árbol salsa adds bold flavor to steamed tacos, a true highlight.

Steamed tacos stand out as the best item on the menu with a variety of delicious salsas to choose from. Tacos de cabeza and burritos also rank as excellent choices.

People are saying

"I thought the head tacos were the best Mexican food."

"I found the head tacos here to be the best."

Good to know

1

Only cash is accepted for payments.

Discover more

Oakland, California

Area guide
Loading Map...