Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Pasadena

Mexican food

The heat and depth of authentic Mexican food is the only thing that will satisfy the hunger.

Based on 764 Opinions
+761
User
User
User
Updated
01
El Jarocho Taco Stand image 1
El Jarocho Taco Stand image 2
El Jarocho Taco Stand image 3
View all

Tiny taco stand offers well-seasoned meats like al pastor and carnitas with fresh homemade tortillas. Locals love the spicy red salsa and low-key, clean atmosphere. Prices stay very cheap, making it a top spot for Mexican food.

Tacos here are well-seasoned and come in good portions, especially the al pastor and carnitas varieties. The red salsa stands out as incredible, and the food is both delicious and affordable.

People are saying

"The tacos and burritos here are super fresh and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

They accept cash or Zelle as payment methods.

2

The dinner cost $12.50 per person.

3

The taco stand has been in the same location for over 3 years.

02
Birria Master image 1
Birria Master image 2
Birria Master image 3
View all

One-man modified truck serves rich birria tacos with family-style seating that creates a community table vibe. Atmosphere is welcoming and unassuming, perfect for enjoying specialized Mexican food. Convenient street and on-site parking make visits easy.

Birria tacos stand out with rich, full flavor not found elsewhere nearby. The menu focuses on this specialty, offering quesobirria tacos and quesadillas that consistently hit the mark.

People are saying

"The birria tacos here are amazing and super tender."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the lot and on the street.

2

The queso birria tacos cost $3.50 and the consomรฉ is $3.

3

Drinks and water are sold separately.

03
El Metate image 1
El Metate image 2
El Metate image 3
View all

Cafeteria-style spot offers fresh salsas and street tacos that pack a kick. Enjoy strong margaritas in a warm, family-friendly space with a community vibe. Affordable, authentic dishes make it a casual favorite.

Street tacos stand out with fresh salsas that pack a kick. Potato tacos come highly recommended, and margaritas are both delicious and strong.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

Happy Hour is from 4 to 6 daily with great deals.

2

Parking is available across the street from the Rose Parade route.

3

Tacos are reasonably priced, making it a great spot for affordable food.

04
Salsa Picante Pasadena image 1
Salsa Picante Pasadena image 2
Salsa Picante Pasadena image 3
View all

Small strip mall spot offers authentic Mexican feel with a homey kitchen vibe. Enjoy crispy carnitas and asada tacos with affordable prices and generous portions. Quiet lunch hours make it perfect for casual, traditional meals.

Mexican food here features crispy carnitas and asada tacos with a unique twist. The menu includes affordable tacos, habanero and green salsas, and traditional dishes like burrito de asada and pozole, all prepared with authentic flavors.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic, home-cooked Mexican food here."

Good to know

1

3 tacos with some chips cost under $10.

2

Parking is easy and available near the restaurant.

3

The restaurant is not clearly visible from the street.

05
Los California Tacos image 1
Los California Tacos image 2
Los California Tacos image 3
View all

Street tacos shine with authentic flavor and fast service. Six meat options at $2.75 each keep prices low. No seating means a tailgate vibe where customers eat standing or on car tops, creating a lively, friendly crowd.

Tacos with authentic flavor stand out here, especially the carnitas and pastor. Service moves fast, and the street tacos deliver consistent, delicious taste.

People are saying

"I thought their tacos were some of the best I'd ever had."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash for payments.

2

Tacos cost $2.75 each, with nachos priced at $13.

3

Parking is available nearby, but it can be tight.

06
Tacos Poncitlan image 1
Tacos Poncitlan image 2
Tacos Poncitlan image 3
View all

Hole-in-the-wall taqueria shines with fresh tortillas and authentic Mexican flavors like Guerrero-style tacos. Vibrant mural and great atmosphere make it inviting. Affordable prices and ample parking add to the convenience.

Tacos come with fresh tortillas and authentic flavors, especially the Guerrero-style tacos and burritos. The barbacoa quesadilla stands out, and the salsas offer a good amount of heat and great flavor.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food, especially the tacos, to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Ample parking is available on the streets nearby.

2

Tacos are very cheap, making it an affordable option.

3

Expect busy crowds on weekends; consider visiting during weekdays.

07
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 a large outdoor patio offers a casual LA vibe and friendly feel. Birria tacos shine with homemade tortillas and bold salsa, while the beef asada burrito delivers solid Mexican flavors. Live music and henna art add unique charm.

Birria tacos stand out with exceptionally tasty, homemade tortillas and a flavorful salsa. The beef asada burrito and rice and beans bowl offer balanced portions and solid Mexican flavors.

People are saying

"I loved their Indian-Mexican fusion dishes, especially the chaat-chos."

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.

08
Tacos Neza image 1
Tacos Neza image 2
Tacos Neza image 3
View all

Modern, cozy space with fun wall art and clean design offers a chill vibe. Tacos shine with fresh, flavorful carne asada and cochinita pibil options. Self-service touch screens add convenience for quick ordering.

Tacos come out hot and flavorful with options like pastor, asada, and fish each offering a unique taste. The carne asada burrito stands out with an excellent tortilla and careful assembly, making it filling and satisfying.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious, especially the tacos."

Good to know

1

The ordering process is self-service.

2

Prices are fair, with tacos around $5.25 each.

3

The portion size is large, providing good value.

09
Teddy's Cocina image 1
Teddy's Cocina image 2
Teddy's Cocina image 3
View all

Spacious spot with a laid-back vibe and big screen TVs showing sports. Enjoy traditional street tacos with fresh twists and drinks like Horchata. Casual atmosphere feels genuine but can get hot inside without air conditioning.

Tacos come in small but delicious portions with traditional street flavors and a fresh twist. Drinks like Horchata and hibiscus margaritas complement dishes such as potato tacos, grilled shrimp, and chicken quesadillas.

People are saying

"I loved the fresh, flavorful Mexican food here."

Good to know

1

They offer a 10% discount for Pasadena City College students.

2

Free parking is available in the rear lot, but spaces are limited.

3

Tuesdays feature $1.99 street tacos and $5 margaritas.

10
Kings Breakfast & Burgers image 1
Kings Breakfast & Burgers image 2
Kings Breakfast & Burgers image 3
View all

Cozy spot offers colorful tile decor and lively street noise for a casual vibe. Mexican breakfast shines with chili relleno burritos and tasty chilaquiles. Affordable prices and house-made hot sauces complete the flavorful experience.

Breakfast burritos stand out with a chili relleno option that often includes steak. Chilaquiles come with a delicious flavor, and the salsa is on point.

People are saying

"This Mexican food is excellent, especially The One breakfast burrito."

Good to know

1

The parking lot is large and available.

2

There was never a wait or line at Kings Breakfast & Burgers.

3

The prices at Kings Breakfast & Burgers are more reasonable than many other places.

11
Fonda Doรฑa Julia image 1
Fonda Doรฑa Julia image 2
Fonda Doรฑa Julia image 3
View all

Small Mexican spot offers authentic menudo and homemade tortillas with spicy salsa. Family-run vibe makes it feel like home. Generous portions and low prices keep guests coming back.

Menudo stands out as a signature dish with a rich, authentic flavor. Tacos, burritos, and tortas carry a homemade taste, complemented by salsa with a perfect heat level.

People are saying

"I've never had Mexican food as good as their menudo."

Good to know

1

Menudo is only served on weekends.

2

Taco Tuesday and Thursday deals offer $1.50 tacos.

3

The burrito costs $11.24.

12
Chiquita Bonita image 1
Chiquita Bonita image 2
Chiquita Bonita image 3
View all

Cozy spot offers authentic Mexican food with standout dishes like menudo and ceviche. Generous portions and affordable prices make it great for families and friends. Light, warm atmosphere pairs well with a refreshing sangria.

Authentic Mexican food shines here with dishes like Menudo and Pozole standing out. Chips and salsa come fresh and tasty, while options like vegan burritos and verde enchiladas add variety.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

Parking is tricky; the lot is located right before the building.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak lunch and dinner hours.

3

Prices are reasonable and portions are generous.

13
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 lively bar featuring a jukebox create a fun vibe. Strong, flavorful margaritas made with real triple sec shine alongside authentic dishes like Carne Asada and fajitas. Warm chips and salsa complete the casual dining experience.

Strong margaritas made with real triple sec and lime stand out here. The Carne Asada comes with a tasty cheese enchilada, and the fajitas are notably good. Warm chips and flavorful salsa accompany authentic Mexican dishes.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was delicious and had good flavor."

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.

14
Madre Maiz Taqueria image 1
Madre Maiz Taqueria image 2
Madre Maiz Taqueria image 3
View all

Small Mexican cantina offers grilled shrimp tacos with solid flavor and birria fries made from fresh potatoes. Cozy, casual vibe with friendly staff and good music. Ample outdoor seating with umbrellas adds to the authentic atmosphere.

Grilled shrimp taco costs $9 and delivers solid flavor. Birria fries use fresh cut potatoes and balance the simpler potato tacos. Chicken street tacos, chicken burrito, and guacamole all come out fantastic.

People are saying

"The birria here is so juicy and flavorful."

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.

15
Baja Cali Fish & Tacos (Pasadena-Lake Ave) image 1
Baja Cali Fish & Tacos (Pasadena-Lake Ave) image 2
Baja Cali Fish & Tacos (Pasadena-Lake Ave) image 3
View all

Small Mexican spot buzzes with bumping music and a local atmosphere. Fish tacos shine with crispy shrimp and big portions. Taco Tuesday offers a five-for-seven-fifty special that draws a crowd.

Fish tacos stand out with crispy shrimp and generous portions packed with real meat. Taco Tuesday offers a five-for-seven-fifty special that delivers great value.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food, especially the fish tacos, to be delicious."

Good to know

1

They offer a Taco Tuesday special with 5 fish tacos for $7.50.

2

Weekly specials are available Monday through Saturday, but none on Sunday.

3

The restaurant gets busy during peak hours, so plan accordingly.

16
Mercado Pasadena image 1
Mercado Pasadena image 2
Mercado Pasadena image 3
View all

Modern Mexican spot shines with signature carnitas and creative dishes like shrimp tacos. Heated outdoor patio offers pet-friendly seating and powerful fans for comfort. Enjoy a lively atmosphere with great views and specialty margaritas.

Carnitas stand out as a signature dish, paired well with sides like black beans or aioli. Dishes like enchiladas, shrimp tacos, and churro ice cream offer a mix of classic and creative Mexican flavors.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here has such attentive and welcoming service."

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.

17
Tortas Mexico image 1
Tortas Mexico image 2
Tortas Mexico image 3
View all

Cozy spot with homey decor and picnic tables offers a family-run vibe that feels warm and authentic. Large portions highlight authentic Mexican tortas, especially carne asada and cubana. Menu also shines with birria, mole enchiladas, and spicy tacos.

Tortas stand out with quality ingredients and great taste, especially the carne asada and cubana tortas. The menu also features tasty birria, mole enchiladas, and flavorful tacos like al pastor and spicy chicken.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food tortas to be the best I have ever tasted."

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.

18
Vero's Restaurant image 1
Vero's Restaurant image 2
Vero's Restaurant image 3
View all

Small seating and a family-owned vibe create a charming atmosphere. Menudo shines with authentic flavor while tacos and ceviche offer bold spice. Fresh juices and BYOB add to the casual neighborhood feel.

Menudo stands out with its phenomenal flavor and authentic style. Tacos, sopes, and shrimp ceviche tostadas offer great deals and bold spice levels that complement the menu well.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

They offer taco deals almost daily.

2

Daily specials are available.

3

This place allows customers to bring their own beer.

19
Sofia's Mexican Restaurant image 1
Sofia's Mexican Restaurant image 2
Sofia's Mexican Restaurant image 3
View all

Small Mexican spot shines with authentic mole sauces and pozole that taste like home. Cozy, family-owned vibe adds charm. Free chips and salsa make dining casual and welcoming.

Pozole and mole dishes stand out with authentic flavors and varied mole sauces. Tacos, including carnitas and birria burritos, offer traditional Mexican tastes that match home cooking.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be simply amazing."

Good to know

1

Chips and salsa are complimentary with every meal.

2

Prices are generally affordable, with meals around $10-$20.

3

Taco nights run from Thursday to Sunday until 11 pm.

20
Lupita's image 1
Lupita's image 2
Lupita's image 3
View all

Cozy spot serves authentic menudo and fish tacos with fresh salsas including roasted and salsa verde. Generous portions come at affordable prices in a relaxed, homey setting. Complimentary chips add to the welcoming vibe.

Mexican food here features freshly made dishes like menudo, pozole, and flautas. Chips come with two types of salsa, including a unique roasted salsa and a standout salsa verde.

People are saying

"The Mexican Food here is served by the friendliest staff."

Good to know

1

Parking can take up to 15 minutes to find, so plan ahead.

2

Combo plates cost about $13 and are large enough to share.

3

The menu offers a nice variety, catering to different tastes.

21
Maestro Restaurant image 1
Maestro Restaurant image 2
Maestro Restaurant image 3
View all

Outdoor patio shines with live mariachi music and warm lighting, setting a lively vibe. Inside, excited chatter fills the sleek space with energy. Authentic Mexican dishes like Tacos Ahogados and chicken mole offer rich, smoky flavors, while desserts like tres leches carrot cake provide a sweet finish.

Authentic Mexican dishes like Tacos Ahogados and chicken mole stand out with rich, smoky flavors. The tres leches carrot cake and churro French toast add a sweet touch to the menu.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the enchiladas."

Good to know

1

Mariachi entertainment is available on Thursdays, with boleros on some Saturdays.

2

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

3

Reservations are recommended for busy nights, especially during live events.

22
La Fiesta Grande Mexican Restaurant image 1
La Fiesta Grande Mexican Restaurant image 2
La Fiesta Grande Mexican Restaurant image 3
View all

Small space with colorful decor and a cozy vibe makes it feel like an authentic family spot. Potent margaritas and rich shredded beef enchiladas highlight the menu. Music plays softly, creating a relaxed, lively atmosphere perfect for easy conversation.

Authentic Mexican dishes feature shredded beef enchiladas and menudo praised for their rich flavors. The salsa and margaritas, including the Cadillac margarita, stand out as flavorful highlights.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so delicious, I loved every bite."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

2

Prices are higher than average, typically around $75 for two people.

3

Parking is limited, so plan to arrive early.

23
Kulturas image 1
Kulturas image 2
Kulturas image 3
View all

Lively spot with Mexican dishes like tacos and Birria Bites. Enjoy signature margarita pitchers and free chips and salsa. Perfect for casual dining and catching sports games on TV in a chill, comfortable space.

Taco Tuesday offers delicious tacos and excellent barbacoa with a lively vibe. Horchata and free chips and salsa add to the great Mexican food experience.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious, especially the birria tacos."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.

2

Taco Tuesdays feature special pricing on tacos.

3

Marguerita Mondays provide discounts on margaritas.

24
Pollos Puebla #1 image 1
Pollos Puebla #1 image 2
Pollos Puebla #1 image 3
View all

Family-owned charm shines through colorful murals and a vibrant atmosphere. Juicy grilled chicken and fresh salsas with multiple heat levels highlight the menu. Generous portions come with a slightly upscale price, making it a cool spot for Mexican food lovers.

Fresh, homemade salsas come in multiple heat levels and are offered for tasting. Burritos and tacos feature carne asada and chicken with typical sides like beans and rice, with portions that feel generous.

People are saying

"I really enjoyed the spicy chicken at this Mexican food place."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $16 for a burrito and $20 for three pieces of chicken.

2

The portion sizes are good, but some sides may be smaller than expected.

3

The air conditioning can be quite strong, so consider bringing a sweater.

25
La Estrella Tacos #2 image 1
La Estrella Tacos #2 image 2
La Estrella Tacos #2 image 3
View all

Outdoor seating with a spacious patio offers a casual vibe. Tacos, especially shrimp and fish, and burritos like Carne asada are large and flavorful. Quick, affordable meals served at a window keep service easygoing and fast.

Tacos come large and excellent, especially the shrimp and fish varieties. Burritos like the Carne asada and Cabeza stand out for their flavor and size. Meals are affordable and served quickly, with options to order at the window or sit on the terrace.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is fantastic, especially the tacos."

Good to know

1

The 2 taco meal costs less than $7.

2

Cash discounts are available for payments.

3

The restaurant only has outdoor seating.

26
Baja Cali Fish & Tacos (Pasadena-Washington) image 1
Baja Cali Fish & Tacos (Pasadena-Washington) image 2
Baja Cali Fish & Tacos (Pasadena-Washington) image 3
View all

Small dining space offers a quiet atmosphere with plenty of seating. Fish and shrimp tacos shine with crispy texture and chipotle crema, paired with free fountain drink refills and great deals. A hidden gem for seafood lovers seeking authentic Mexican flavors.

Fish tacos stand out with crispy texture and a delicious chipotle crema. Options include shrimp tacos, queso birria tacos, and vegetarian faux meat tacos, all served with plenty of cortido and salsa extras.

People are saying

"You have to try the fish tacos; they're the best."

Good to know

1

The vegetarian options are no longer available at this restaurant.

2

Prices may be higher when ordering through apps compared to calling directly.

3

There is a risk of cross contamination for allergies.

27
Yahaira's Cafe image 1
Yahaira's Cafe image 2
Yahaira's Cafe image 3
View all

Cozy indoor space and live music on the patio create a friendly vibe for families and pets. Breakfast burritos are hearty and filling, but shrimp burritos come with raw shrimp, which is a concern. Volume stays low enough for easy conversation.

Breakfast burritos come packed with scrambled eggs, sausage, and potatoes. Shrimp burritos are offered but the shrimp arrives raw consistently.

People are saying

"You have to try their breakfast burrito; it's one of the best."

Good to know

1

Expect minimal wait times during weekday mornings.

2

Weekend specials are available, featuring unique dishes.

3

Prices are reasonable, with generous portion sizes.

28
Rosarito image 1
Rosarito image 2
Rosarito image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant offers authentic menudo and birria plates with handmade tortillas in a quiet, old school vibe. Live music enhances the relaxed atmosphere while quick, attentive service keeps large, affordable portions coming.

Menudo stands out as authentic and flavorful, served daily with consomรฉ. Burritos come in large, affordable portions with options like shrimp and veggie, packed with flavor and filling. Tacos, chicken enchiladas, and birria plates also feature, all served hot with handmade tortillas and attentive service.

People are saying

"The menudo here is authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The menu features a variety of traditional Mexican dishes, including menudo and chili relleno.

2

Prices are reasonable, with meals averaging around $12 for tacos and sides.

3

Chips and rice with beans are included with most orders.

29
Los Tacos image 1
Los Tacos image 2
Los Tacos image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant offers authentic decor and a chill atmosphere with quiet, clean space and free parking. Tacos are meat-packed with options like softshell chicken mole and green-chili pork. Prices are higher but match the quality and generous portions.

Tacos come packed with loads of meat and include varieties like softshell chicken mole and green-chili pork. Burritos such as machaca with egg and breakfast options stand out, alongside excellent salsas and generous Menudo with tripe.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is so flavorful and juicy."

Good to know

1

There was free parking onsite.

2

Los Tacos has its own parking lot.

3

The price for a taco was $5.50 each.

30
Baja Fresh image 1
Baja Fresh image 2
Baja Fresh image 3
View all

Enjoy authentic atmosphere with a clean space and comfortable outdoor seating. Try the Wahoo burrito and juicy pork carnitas or steak tacos. Service stays smooth despite a small crew, making dining easy and pleasant.

Wahoo burrito stands out with its fresh flavor. Tender pork carnitas and steak tacos offer juicy, satisfying options. The salsa bar features a variety of tasty choices, including the spicy Mocajete Salsa.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is great, and the staff is friendly."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and free, with nearby shopping options.

2

Baja Fresh offers vegetarian options on the menu.

3

Outdoor seating is available and comfortable.

Discover more

Pasadena, California

Area guide