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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Pasadena's best

Salsa dancing

A sharp, spicy salsa is exactly what is needed to wake up the palate.

Based on 764 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 freshly made tacos with spicy red salsa that packs a bold kick. Locals love the homemade tortillas and cheap prices. Atmosphere stays low-key and clean, perfect for enjoying well-seasoned meats and flavorful habanero salsa.

Red salsa stands out with its spicy kick and bold flavor. Habanero salsa adds a delicious heat that complements the other flavorful options.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the Al Pastor to be the best around."

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 truck serves rich birria tacos with fresh homemade salsas that bring spicy heat. Family-style seating and a community table create a welcoming vibe. Street and on-site parking make visits easy and convenient.

Salsas come fresh and homemade with spicy heat and careful preparation. Limes and pickled onions add bright, complementary flavors.

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
Tacos Neza image 1
Mexican restaurant

Modern, cozy space with fun wall art and clean interior offers a chill vibe. Tacos shine with fresh, flavorful carne asada and cochinita pibil. Green salsa delivers amazing flavor, while red salsa adds a smokey touch without heat, paired with crunchy pickled onions.

Green salsa stands out with its amazing flavor. Red salsa offers a smokeyness that surprises without heat. Both salsas are mild and paired with crunchy pickled onions alongside tacos.

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.

04
Fonda Doรฑa Julia image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot shines with homemade tortillas and spicy salsas that pack a perfect heat. Family-run vibe adds warmth to every visit. Generous portions and affordable prices make it a go-to for authentic home-style meals.

Salsa here has a perfect heat level and leans toward the spicy side. Options include red salsa served with dishes like mole and pork ribs.

People are saying

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

"I found this place to be a very authentic Mexican restaurant."

"I thought the salsa was out of this world amazing."

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.

05
Salsa Picante Pasadena image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small strip mall spot offers authentic Mexican feel with a homey kitchen vibe. Enjoy fresh green salsa and a spicy habanero kick that taste homemade. Generous portions and reasonable prices make it a great casual lunch choice.

Chips come with medium hot green salsa that tastes fresh and pairs well. The habanero salsa adds a spicy kick, and the overall salsa selection feels home-cooked and authentic.

People are saying

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

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

"The Salsa here feels like an incredible home-cooked meal."

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.

06
Tacos Poncitlan image 1
Mexican restaurant

Hole-in-the-wall taqueria shines with fresh tortillas and a great mural inside. Red salsa packs strong heat, while milder green salsa balances flavors. Affordable prices and ample parking make it easy to enjoy authentic Mexican food even on busy weekends.

Red salsa offers a good amount of heat and strong flavor. Freshly made salsas come with chips, including a milder green salsa option.

People are saying

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

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

"I loved the fresh chips and the red salsa's perfect heat."

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
Sofia's Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot offers free chips with a notable salsa that stands out. Cozy, family-owned vibe with colorful decor adds to the charm. Enjoy authentic mole sauces and carnitas tacos in a casual setting.

Chips come free with the meal and pair well with the good salsa. The salsa has a notable flavor that stands out.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious with perfect flavor and spice."

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

"I found the salsa to be incredible."

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.

08
El Metate image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cafeteria-style spot shines with fresh salsas including a unique peanut option. Enjoy affordable street tacos in a warm, family-friendly space. Sip on fresh-squeezed margaritas while soaking in the authentic, comfortable vibe.

Salsas come very fresh with a noticeable kick. The peanut salsa stands out as a unique option. Chips and salsa come packed together, complementing the platters well.

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.

09
Tortas Mexico image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy spot with homey decor and family-run vibe offers authentic Mexican tortas in large portions. Salsa shines with simple seasoning and the green salsa with chilaquiles is a must-try. Outdoor picnic tables add to the welcoming feel.

Salsa here stands out for its simple seasoning and great flavor. The green salsa served with chilaquiles is especially notable.

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."

"I thought the salsa here was really great."

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.

10
Andy's Coffee Shop image 1

Small diner offers a classic Americana charm with a cozy, family vibe. Salsa is homemade and flavorful but mild, perfect with breakfast burritos. Tight space feels welcoming with booths and a coffee counter adding to the authentic, down-to-earth setting.

Salsa here is full of flavor without being spicy. The homemade side salsa pairs well with breakfast, especially the burrito, and the avocado and salsa combo stands out.

People are saying

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

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

"The chilaquiles' salsa verde was amazing and flavorful."

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.

11
Baja Fresh image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with authentic atmosphere and varied food choices including vegetarian options. Salsa bar features spicy Mocajete Salsa and smoky roasted salsa. Outdoor seating is comfortable and clean, with smooth service from a small crew.

A Mocajete Salsa offers a spicy kick while the Baja Salsa provides a milder, tasty option. The roasted salsa adds a rich, smoky flavor to the salsa bar.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

"The Diablo burrito was fiery and wholesome."

"The salsa here is delicious and fresh."

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.

12
Puebla Tacos 2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy indoor seating offers a homey vibe with authentic Mexican flavors. Sizable portions satisfy hunger, especially with tender lengua burritos. Complimentary chips come with spicy salsa that usually has a balanced kick.

Chips come with complimentary salsa that is usually spicy but balanced. Some batches are watery and less flavorful, but most have a good kick without overwhelming heat.

People are saying

"I really enjoyed the fish tacos here."

"I've never had better Mexican Food; the lingua burritos are the best."

"The salsa here is perfectly spicy, not too hot."

Good to know

1

Parking is plentiful near the restaurant.

2

A torta with a soda costs around $20.

3

They use lard in their beans, which may not suit all diets.

13
Teddy's Cocina image 1
Restaurant

Spacious spot with a laid-back vibe and big screen TVs for sports fans. Fresh, quality ingredients shine in the Mango Salsa on Mahi Nachos and red salsa with taquitos. Casual, genuine atmosphere keeps energy chill despite explicit music.

Fresh, quality ingredients make the salsas stand out. The red salsa pairs well with taquitos, and the Mango Salsa on Mahi Nachos adds a savory, fruity touch.

People are saying

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

"The vibe here is so cool and genuine."

"The salsas here are delicious and taste homemade."

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.

14
Mi Casa Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, family-run spot offers authentic carnitas and grilled chicken tacos in a cozy, home-like setting. Fresh salsa verde and red and green salsas come with chips, balancing dryness and pairing well with veggie burritos and barbacoa. Portions are hearty and affordable.

Fresh salsa verde and both red and green salsas come with a side of chips. These salsas balance the dryness well and pair nicely with veggie burritos and weekend barbacoa.

People are saying

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

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

"The salsa verde was fresh and delicious."

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.

15
Pollos Puebla #1 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Family-owned charm shines through colorful murals and vibrant atmosphere. Juicy grilled chicken pairs well with fresh salsas, including a special homemade and hot option. Strong air conditioning keeps the space cool despite the hot food and slightly upscale prices.

Staff offer all salsas for tasting, letting you pick your favorite. Salsas are fresh, include a special homemade and a hot salsa, and add great flavor to tacos.

People are saying

"The spicy chicken here is my favorite dish."

"I paid $17 for a chicken burrito."

"I found the street tacos and burritos to be delicious."

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.

16
Dena Burgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Booths with ornate upholstery show Los Angeles scenes, creating a cute vibe. Indoor, outdoor, and drive-through options suit any mood. Classic burgers mix with authentic Mexican dishes, highlighted by a spicy green salsa with habanero heat and creamy avocado.

Green salsa stands out with its perfect spice level and creamy avocado base. The spicy green version packs heat from habanero, not for the faint of heart, and both can be bought to go.

People are saying

"I found the breakfast burrito to be super delicious."

"The green salsa with avocado and habanero is spicy and worth the pain."

"The green salsa is spicy, avocado-like, and worth the pain."

Good to know

1

You can buy the green salsa to go.

2

There was plenty of parking available.

3

Dena Burgers offered indoor and outdoor seating options.

17
The Original Tops image 1

Diner blends 1950s nostalgia with a lively 1980s theme, creating a bustling spot on Route 66. House-made spicy red salsa adds a tangy kick to meals, while outdoor seating invites casual dining. Classic soda fountain serves refreshing orange whips for a true retro vibe.

House-made spicy red salsa adds a tangy balance to dishes. Salsa verde and other homemade dressings enhance salads and sides. Options include requesting extra salsa and specifying potato doneness.

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."

"The salsa here is a symphony of breakfast flavors."

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.

18
La Fiesta Grande Mexican Restaurant image 1

Small space with colorful decor and a cozy vibe. Chips come with top-notch salsa and creamy avocado dip. Known for potent margaritas and authentic Mexican food, it feels like a family spot with lively music.

Warm chips come with top-notch salsa and an avocado dip. The salsa stands out as to die for and makes a great start to the meal.

People are saying

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

"The food here has an authentic Mexican flavor that reminds me of childhood."

"I thought the chips and salsa were top-notch starters."

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.

19
Tacos El Pollo (Restaurant) image 1

Taco spot shines with varied salsa options and generous meat portions despite small tortillas. Busy takeout vibe meets usually open parking. Food quality swings from tasty to dry or greasy but salsas add solid flavor.

Different kinds of salsas and condiments come with orders. The selection varies slightly with each batch, offering a good range of flavors and sides.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were the best I ever had."

"I found the Al Pastor tacos to be good every single time."

"I loved the fantastic selection of salsas and extras."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost $2.50 each, but portion sizes may be smaller than expected.

2

Coke bottles are priced at $3.50, which is relatively high.

3

Parking is usually available in the lot, but street parking can be quicker.

20
Lupita's image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot serves authentic dishes like menudo and fish tacos with generous portions at great prices. Cozy vibe invites relaxed dining while fresh salsa verde and unique roasted salsa brighten the meal. Complimentary chips add a nice touch.

Two types of salsa come with the chips, served fresh and warm from the oven. The salsa verde stands out as particularly memorable, and the roasted salsa offers a unique flavor not often found elsewhere.

People are saying

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

"The Date Spots here have flavorful, plentiful dishes that are worth the price."

"I thought the salsa here was great and delicious."

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
Amigo's Restaurant and Cantina image 1

Spacious interior with a dark Mexican atmosphere and a mural creates a warm vibe. Enjoy flavorful salsa with warm chips that invite seconds. Strong, flavorful margaritas and a lively bar with a jukebox make it a fun local spot.

Warm chips come with flavorful salsa that encourages at least two servings. Portions are generous, and chips and salsa are consistently excellent.

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 chips and salsa here are excellent and flavorful."

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.

22
Madre Maiz Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican cantina offers cozy atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating. Breakfast salsa shines with special flavor and pairs well with blue corn tortillas. Friendly staff and visible kitchen add to the authentic vibe.

Breakfast salsa stands out with its special flavor and pairs well with blue corn tortillas. Red salsa brings a spicy kick, while green salsa offers a mild lime flavor that complements dishes like Gorditas.

People are saying

"The birria here is so juicy and flavorful."

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

"The salsas here are flavorful and 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.

23
Margaritas Mexican Restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant offers a family-style atmosphere with colorful decor and a lively mariachi band. Chips and homemade salsa are a highlight, loved enough for takeout. The split space between restaurant and cantina adds a vibrant cultural vibe.

Chips and salsa stand out with a homemade taste and consistent quality. The house salsa is popular enough to buy for takeout.

People are saying

"The tacos here are fresh, flavorful, and satisfying."

"The staff here is so friendly and attentive, making our Salsa night feel homey."

"I loved the Sunday buffet with its huge selection."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a $30 minimum payment per person.

2

Parking can be challenging during busy periods, especially for larger vehicles.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

24
Roll Em Up Taquitos - Pasadena image 1

Open concept Mexican spot offers vibrant patio seating and lively reggae tunes for a fun vibe. Spicy salsas shine, especially the Green Goblin with bold heat. Family-friendly with board games and free books, plus ample parking and clean, artistic decor.

A variety of spicy salsas are available, including a Green Goblin that stands out for its heat and flavor. The red salsa is milder but still good, and the staff ensures salsa is served with meals.

People are saying

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

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

"The salsa here is spicy, especially the green goblin."

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.

25
El Matador Authentic Mexican Food image 1

Mexican spot serves authentic flavors in a family-friendly setting. Enjoy crispy chips with fresh salsa that stays crunchy. Large wet burritos and pollo mole make meals satisfying and lively.

Freshness stands out with crispy chips paired with carefully prepared salsa. The salsa complements the dishes well and keeps the chips crunchy.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be truly authentic."

"I loved their chicken enchiladas; the chicken was so tender."

"The salsa and chips were so fresh and crispy."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers discounted prices for a budget-friendly meal.

2

Parking is easy and available near the restaurant.

3

The portions are large, making it a good value for the price.

26
Lucky Boy Drive-In at Walnut image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Old school diner with a late 70s atmosphere offers massive breakfast burritos paired with mild, red salsa served on the side. Cozy space feels quiet and unhurried even when busy. Outdoor patio provides solid seating without shade tarps.

Salsa comes in a red color with a mild spice level. It pairs well with breakfast burritos and is served on the side, offering a hot option that complements the meal.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were solid and enormous."

"This breakfast burrito is massive, easily enough for two people."

"The breakfast burritos here are insanely huge, feeding three people easily."

Good to know

1

The diner is not a drive-thru, so plan accordingly.

2

Expect reasonable prices for large portion sizes.

3

There is plenty of parking available at the location.

27
Los Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot shines with authentic decor and a chill atmosphere. Salsa bar offers varied heat levels, though some salsas lack flavor. Tacos are delicious but prices run high. Quiet, clean space with free parking adds to comfort.

A salsa bar offers a variety of salsas with different heat levels. Some salsas are excellent, while others lack seasoning and flavor.

People are saying

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

"The salsas here were excellent and had different heat levels."

"The vibe here is really chill and the interior is nice."

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.

28
ANAYA'S RESTAURANT image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican spot shines with tomatillo salsa and complementary chips. Enjoy quality cocktails at the well-stocked bar while live music livens the air. Outdoor patio offers a relaxed, al fresco dining vibe.

Tomatillo salsa stands out with its excellent flavor. Complementary chips and salsa are offered at the end of the meal.

People are saying

"The Mexican food's depth of flavor, especially the chilaquiles, was amazing."

"The salsa here has a slow burn that builds beautifully."

"The cocktails here are amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price margaritas and drink specials on weekdays.

2

Sunday brunch features a special menu with unique dishes.

3

Parking can be challenging; arrive early to secure a spot.

29
Kings Breakfast & Burgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Cozy space with colorful tile decor and lively street noise sets a casual tone. Breakfast burritos shine with green avocado salsa and spicy fries salsa for bold flavor. Affordable prices and mountain views make it a great spot for a relaxed meal.

Salsa comes in green avocado and orange Cajun varieties that add vibrant flavor to the breakfast burrito. The salsa served with fries is spicy and complements the dish well.

People are saying

"This breakfast burrito is super flavorful and loaded with ingredients."

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

"The chilaquiles here are delicious and crispy."

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.

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