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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 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
El Jarocho Taco Stand image 1
El Jarocho Taco Stand image 2
El Jarocho Taco Stand image 3
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Mexican restaurant

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

"I found the tacos packed with flavor and really super."

"The red salsa here is incredibly spicy and flavorful."

"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
Mexican restaurant

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."

"The salsas here are delicious and complement the meal perfectly."

"Parking is available on site and on the street."

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
Mexican restaurant

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."

"The fish tacos and ceviche here are delicious."

"The salsas here are excellent and have a nice kick."

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
Tacos Poncitlan image 1
Mexican restaurant

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 food here to be amazing and authentic."

"I found the tacos to be amazing and authentic."

"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.

05
Teddy's Cocina image 1
Restaurant

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 found the tacos here to be fresh, flavorful, and plentiful."

"The vibe here is so cool and genuine."

"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.

06
Salsa Picante Pasadena image 1
Mexican restaurant

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."

"The carnitas tacos here are the best I've ever had."

"I loved the crispiness of the carnitas."

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.

07
Los California Tacos image 1
Taco restaurant

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 these were the best street tacos I'd ever had."

"This is a great late night spot for tasty tacos."

"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.

08
Kings Breakfast & Burgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

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 breakfast burrito is super flavorful and loaded with ingredients."

"I thought the burgers here were flavorful and cooked to perfection."

"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.

09
Saucy Chick Indi-Mex Eatery image 1

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

"The food here is a delicious and fun fusion of Indian and Mexican flavors."

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

"The Carne Asada here is excellent, with a perfect little char."

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.

10
Tacos Neza image 1
Mexican restaurant

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."

"The corn tortillas here are made fresh on site and are delicious."

"The green salsa here is amazing and has a great kick."

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.

11
Cordova Cafe & Bottleshop image 1

Cozy cafe features metal bar tables and a lively bar area, creating an inviting vibe. Breakfast burritos stand out with hefty fillings and a perfectly spicy salsa. Outdoor seating welcomes dogs, though street noise can be noticeable.

Breakfast burritos come with a hefty filling and a delicious salsa that has the perfect amount of heat. Options include a solid vegan breakfast burrito and the overall burritos are consistently excellent and flavorful.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be perfect."

"They have a great selection of craft beer."

"The breakfast burritos here are excellent and packed with filling."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; expect to find street parking and bring coins.

2

Happy hour is available most days with special deals on food and drinks.

3

The cafe serves breakfast all day, offering a variety of options.

12
Mi Casa Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, family-run spot serves authentic carnitas and grilled chicken tacos with fresh salsa verde. Cozy, home-like vibe makes it perfect for casual meals. Affordable, hearty portions keep customers coming back for classic sides like rice and beans.

Carnitas and al pastor burritos stand out with tender, authentic flavors. Tacos come with super warm tortillas and fresh salsa verde, paired with scratch-made red enchilada sauce and classic sides like rice and beans.

People are saying

"I found the food to be fresh and excellent."

"I had the best carnitas Iโ€™ve ever tasted."

"You have to try the carnitas Mexican food here."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, but there is a small private parking area available.

2

The restroom is very clean and well-maintained for customers.

3

Tacos are priced at $3.25 each, which some may find high.

13
Amigo's Restaurant and Cantina image 1

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."

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

"The margaritas at this bar are the best and strongest I've ever had."

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
Chiquita Bonita image 1
Mexican restaurant

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."

"The food here is delicious, perfect for Date Spots."

"The breakfast staff here is super nice and friendly."

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.

15
Madre Maiz Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

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."

"I loved the authentic food, bursting with flavor."

"You have to try their fresh, chewy blue corn tortillas."

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.

16
Mercado Pasadena image 1
Mexican restaurant

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."

"The carnitas here are melty and insanely good."

"The covered outdoor seating is really nice and comfortable."

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
Baja Cali Fish & Tacos (Pasadena-Lake Ave) image 1

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

"The food here is so delicious and fresh."

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

"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.

18
Lee's Hoagie House image 1
Sandwich shop

Small sandwich shop shines with fresh bread and a self-serve pickle bar. Protein burritos feature green sauce and healthy options like spinach tortilla and avocado. Cozy vibe and reasonable prices make it a local favorite.

Protein burritos come with green sauce and options like spinach tortilla, egg whites, chicken, and avocado. Breakfast burritos offer flavorful char and a salsa and pickle bar adds variety.

People are saying

"The food here is loaded and flavorful."

"The chicken sandwich here is juicy and packed with flavor."

"Their breakfast burritos are flavorful and amazing."

Good to know

1

A pastrami sandwich costs $12.99.

2

The restaurant has a big parking area.

3

The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and early dinner.

19
Yahaira's Cafe image 1
Restaurant

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

"The food here tastes wonderfully authentic and made me feel at home."

"I had a delicious breakfast bursting with flavor."

"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.

20
Tortas Mexico image 1
Mexican restaurant

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."

"I loved their wholesome Mexican breakfast with quality ingredients."

"It's a family-owned and operated restaurant."

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.

21
Andy's Coffee Shop image 1

Small diner offers a cozy vibe with classic Americana charm and a laid-back family feel. Mexican dishes shine with breakfast burritos that are filling and affordable, plus spicy green chilaquiles and homemade salsa add bold flavors. Space feels tight but welcoming.

Breakfast burritos stand out with generous portions and great value. Green chilaquiles bring a spicy kick that varies but stays tasty, and homemade salsa adds a flavorful touch.

People are saying

"The diner's hashbrowns were perfectly crispy and amazing."

"The breakfast burrito is amazing and a great value."

"You've got to try the breakfast burrito; it's the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

There is good parking available at Andyโ€™s Coffee Shop.

2

They are closed on Tuesdays.

3

The restaurant was packed on a Sunday morning.

22
Vero's Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

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."

"I loved the weekly taco specials, especially the grilled shrimp ones."

"I loved the natural juices with my breakfast sandwich."

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.

23
Roll Em Up Taquitos - Pasadena image 1

Open concept Mexican spot shines with super crispy taquitos and a lively vibrant patio. Reggae tunes and board games create a fun, family vibe. Plenty of parking and artistic decor make it easy and welcoming for all.

Taquitos stand out with their super crispy texture and generous flavorful fillings like shredded beef and chicken. The 4 taquito combo comes with tasty rice and beans, and the queso offers a nice cheese pull.

People are saying

"I loved their crispy, flavorful taquitos; it's great Mexican food."

"The staff here is family owned and genuinely welcoming."

"You have to try the churro donuts; they're baked fresh and amazing."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of free parking in the lot.

2

The restaurant offers vegan and vegetarian options, including potato, chicken, or beef taquitos.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality and quantity of food served.

24
Kulturas image 1
Restaurant

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 food here is delicious, with amazing Latin flavors."

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

"The happy hour here has great deals on drinks and appetizers."

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.

25
bbad image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor patio offers a peaceful setting with access to a chic hotel lobby and courtyard. Breakfast burritos feature mille-feuille potatoes and scratch-made fillings like vegan mushroom chorizo and chile verde pork. Atmosphere blends relaxing vibes with a small, simple interior space.

Breakfast burritos here stand out with mille-feuille style potatoes that add a unique crispy texture. Everything, including salsas and vegan mushroom chorizo, is made from scratch, delivering fresh, flavorful fillings like chile verde pork and creamy aioli salsa.

People are saying

"I thought the breakfast burritos were among the best in LA."

"I enjoyed the incredible coffee and burritos."

"The breakfast burrito here is comforting and unique."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is cashless and only accepts card payments.

2

Parking validation is available, but check for specific requirements.

3

Expect a 25-minute wait for orders during peak hours.

26
Hawg Heaven BBQ & Gastro Pub image 1

Enjoy authentic Mexican food like fajitas and brisket with generous portions in a lively spot. Live jazz and cover bands create an intimate atmosphere that turns into a small club after dinner. Noise can be high, so it's best for those who love vibrant vibes.

Menu features authentic Mexican food with excellent BBQ. Dishes like fajitas, brisket, quesadilla, and guacamole stand out.

People are saying

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

"The brisket here is tender, flavorful, and absolutely phenomenal."

"The brisket in this Mexican food is so good."

Good to know

1

Sunday brunch is available from 1-3 pm, and dinner starts at 5:30 pm.

2

Happy hour offers two-for-one well drinks at the bar before 7 pm.

3

Music acts are scheduled throughout the week, providing diverse entertainment options.

27
The Original Tops image 1

Diner blends 1950s nostalgia with a lively 1980s vibe, featuring a classic soda fountain and Route 66 charm. Mexican food shines with a bold breakfast burrito, though caution advised for tostada bowl. Friendly atmosphere suits casual meals with indoor and outdoor seating.

Breakfast burrito stands out with strong flavor and solid preparation. Mexican dishes offer tasty options, but the tostada bowl has caused food poisoning.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were the best in town."

"You can't skip the onion rings; they're the best I ever had."

"These breakfast burritos are some of the best Mexican food in town."

Good to know

1

Parking can be an issue, so plan accordingly.

2

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

3

The restaurant has a drive-thru for quick service.

28
Maestro Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

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."

"The service for dinner spots was so attentive and welcoming."

"The cocktails here were strong and delicious."

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.

29
La Estrella Tacos #2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

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

"I found the tacos here to be the best I've ever had."

"I found the burritos here really good with amazing flavor."

"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.

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