Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Taco lunch spots in Pasadena

A casual lunch break centered around a few tacos is the simplest way to reset.

Based on 542 Opinions
+539
User
User
User
Updated
01
Saucy Chick Indi-Mex Eatery image 1
Saucy Chick Indi-Mex Eatery image 2
Saucy Chick Indi-Mex Eatery image 3
View all

Small indoor space with extensive outdoor patio seating creates a casual, LA chill vibe with friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Busy with takeout and delivery but remains unhectic and pleasant for dining in. Decorated with taste, featuring live music and henna art during visits.

Tacos feature exceptionally tasty tortillas and come in standout varieties like goat and chicken pibil. The carne asada and cauliflower options also deliver strong, flavorful experiences.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos were amazing and expertly made."

"This Lunch Spot's flavors are an explosion, blending cultures beautifully."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

2

There is a parking lot available at the restaurant.

3

The restaurant provides Halal options for diners.

02
Chak De California image 1
Chak De California image 2
Chak De California image 3
View all

Modern Indian restaurant offers a spacious, upscale interior with vibrant, lively music from a live DJ blending Indian and pop tracks. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, suited for both intimate dinners and larger gatherings. Walls feature gorgeous paintings and intricate designs, enhancing the cool, contemporary vibe.

Late lunch options include great dishes that satisfy well. Reserving a table helps secure a spot for a relaxed lunch experience with family.

Paneer tacos stand out with their rich, creamy filling. They come alongside other snacks like Dahi chaat and Vada Pao, offering a mix of textures and flavors.

People are saying

"I really enjoyed the paneer tacos."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is outstanding and delicious."

Good to know

1

Live DJ performances occur on Fridays and Saturdays, enhancing the dining experience.

2

A new lounge with a Punjabi DJ will open soon, adding to the entertainment options.

3

Parking can be challenging nearby, so plan accordingly before your visit.

03
Amigo's Restaurant and Cantina image 1
Amigo's Restaurant and Cantina image 2
Amigo's Restaurant and Cantina image 3
View all

Spacious interior with a dark Mexican atmosphere and a mural on the back wall sets a warm, comfortable vibe. Bar area offers a loud, fun energy with a jukebox and booths, attracting mostly locals. Strong, flavorful margaritas are a key draw, making it a popular spot for casual dining and drinks.

Lunch specials come with generous portions at reasonable prices around $12.50. The large burritos often leave leftovers for the next day, making it a solid choice for a quick, affordable lunch.

Tacos come with a perfectly crunchy shell and juicy, flavorful beef. Options include chicken and beef tacos, often served in combos or a la carte.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has huge portions; I had leftovers for days."

"I especially enjoyed their crispy beef taco."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Expect limited parking; consider arriving early or using street parking.

3

Lunch specials cost $12.50 and offer generous portions.

04
Madre Maiz Taqueria image 1
Madre Maiz Taqueria image 2
Madre Maiz Taqueria image 3
View all

Small Mexican cantina offers intimate indoor tables and ample outdoor seating with umbrellas. Atmosphere feels cozy and casual with good music and friendly staff. Kitchen is visible and efficient, creating an authentic vibe.

Lunch here draws repeat visits and convinces others to come back for dinner. The spot offers consistent quality and a friendly atmosphere during midday meals.

Grilled shrimp and birria street tacos stand out with fresh cut potatoes and a premium taco option beyond cilantro and onions. Breakfast tacos feature cheese and potato cooked onto the tortilla with ham or bacon choices.

People are saying

"The tacos here are delicious, especially the grilled shrimp."

"This Lunch Spot's food was amazingly delicious."

Good to know

1

There is limited indoor seating for large groups.

2

They have an outdoor seating area which is nice.

3

There is a free parking lot outside.

05
California Fish Grill image 1
California Fish Grill image 2
California Fish Grill image 3
View all

Fast casual seafood spot with quick service and a clean, modern setting. Atmosphere feels bare and cold, lacking cozy or lively vibes, but outdoor seating includes a dog-friendly patio with heating. Offers healthy, hearty fish portions with fair prices and consistent quality.

Very good atmosphere makes it a nice spot for lunch. The place gets crowded during lunch hours, especially around noon and early afternoon.

Shrimp tacos come with pickled purple onions and a flavorful sauce. Fish tacos get replaced immediately if fishy, and the Cajun shrimp tacos offer a lot of flavor on a corn tortilla.

People are saying

"The fish tacos here are really tasty and fresh."

"The fish & chips lunch spot had a spot-on batter to fish ratio."

Good to know

1

The restaurant uses a kiosk ordering system for faster service.

2

Expect crowded conditions during lunchtime, especially on weekdays.

3

Parking is usually available in the plaza, making access easy.

06
Mercado Pasadena image 1
Mercado Pasadena image 2
Mercado Pasadena image 3
View all

Modern Mexican restaurant offers a heated outdoor patio with pet-friendly seating and powerful fans for comfort. Atmosphere feels inviting and cozy, with a great view and lively energy. Specialty margaritas and flavorful dishes like carnitas and enchiladas stand out.

Seafood lunch stands out with superb quality. The team offers special menu items and ensures everything needed during lunch is provided.

Surf and turf tacos offer fresh taste with steak packed with flavor. Jicama shrimp tacos come with a fried shrimp texture and pair well with aioli for enhanced flavor.

People are saying

"The tacos el Filete were on point and delicious."

"The service at this lunch spot is always helpful and friendly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers tacos for $12, a great deal compared to regular prices.

2

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially during peak hours.

3

Parking is $2 for 20 minutes, and they do not validate parking.

07
Tortas Mexico image 1
Tortas Mexico image 2
Tortas Mexico image 3
View all

Small indoor space with homey decor and outside picnic tables creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Family-run vibe brings warmth and authenticity to the experience. Known for large portions and authentic Mexican tortas that stand out.

Quick service suits those needing a fast lunch. Options focus on grab-and-go convenience for a brief stop.

Tacos come in huge portions with crispy shells that drip oil. Varieties include sweet and savory al pastor, spicy chicken, and potato tacos. Birria tacos stand out as a favorite among kids, while some find certain tacos hard to finish.

People are saying

"The Asada and cheese at this lunch spot were outstanding."

"I found their spicy chicken tacos outstanding."

Good to know

1

The wait time is usually under ten minutes for orders.

2

There are many vegetarian options available on the menu.

3

Indoor seating is limited, but outdoor seating is available.

08
Fishwives image 1
Fishwives image 2
Fishwives image 3
View all

Small, intimate seafood restaurant with nautical decor and a New England fish house feel. Bright interior and courtyard seating offer a mix of indoor and outdoor dining. Atmosphere tends to be loud and lively, with a friendly vibe.

Casual atmosphere defines the lunch experience here with a quiet vibe during midday. It suits a relaxed meal or a simple date with low crowd levels and a comfortable setting.

Fish tacos feature fried wild cod with a batter like fish and chips, offering a fresh and tasty bite. Portions are small but filling, making them a solid choice for a meal.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot has great seafood, especially the oysters and clams."

"The fish tacos here are massive and amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for large groups, due to high demand.

2

There is no parking available near the restaurant.

3

The average cost for a meal for four is around $385, excluding tip.

Discover more

Pasadena, California

Area guide