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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Pasadena

Salsa taco spots

A warm taco topped with the right amount of sharp salsa is the only thing that matters right now.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Birria Master image 1
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Mexican restaurant

One-man modified truck by the roadside offers family-style seating and a community table that fosters togetherness. The atmosphere stays welcoming and unassuming with a focus on specialized birria tacos known for rich flavor and quality. Street and on-site parking add convenience to the straightforward setup.

Juicy, flavorful meat comes generously on birria tacos that impress with consistent quality. Prices stay low with queso birria tacos at $3.50 and consomรฉ at $3, making them a solid choice for tasty, affordable tacos.

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."

"The birria tacos here are amazing, especially with the consommรฉ."

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.

02
El Jarocho Taco Stand image 1
Mexican restaurant

Tiny taco stand stays put on the street with freshly made tacos served promptly. Atmosphere is low-key and clean, attracting locals who appreciate homemade tortillas and spicy red salsa. Prices are very cheap, making it a standout spot for well-seasoned meats and a variety of options.

Tacos come with well-seasoned meat and good portions, especially the pastor, asada, and carnitas varieties. They are small, so ordering more than usual is common, but the tacos are delicious and affordable with fast, friendly service.

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.

03
Tacos Neza image 1
Mexican restaurant

Modern, cozy space with clean interior and fun wall art creates a chill atmosphere. Self-service ordering via touch screen adds convenience. Tacos stand out for being fresh and flavorful, especially the carne asada and cochinita pibil options.

Tacos come out fresh and flavorful, with options like Cochinita Pibil and asada standing out for their savory and sweet tastes. Modifications are easy, and the tacos are consistently cooked well and filling.

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."

"I thought the al pastor taco was the best I ever had."

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
Salsa Picante Pasadena image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small strip mall setting offers an authentic Mexican feel with a bare bones interior that resembles a home kitchen. Atmosphere stays quiet during lunch with reasonable prices and generous portions. The place attracts those seeking traditional dishes made by Mexican hands in a casual environment.

Tacos come with a crispy texture that adds a unique twist. Options include carnitas, chicken asada, shredded beef, and fish, all well seasoned and affordable, with three tacos and chips costing under $10.

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.

05
El Metate image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cafeteria-style Mexican restaurant offers a warm, family-friendly atmosphere with a strong sense of community. The vibe is authentic and comfortable, featuring fresh, flavorful salsas and strong, fresh-squeezed margaritas. Regulars enjoy affordable street tacos and a variety of traditional dishes in a casual setting.

Street tacos stand out with Al pastor, carne asada, and potato options. Prices stay reasonable while flavors stay rich and tasty.

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."

"I found the tacos here to be really 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.

06
Tacos Poncitlan image 1
Mexican restaurant

Hole-in-the-wall taqueria with an aesthetic interior featuring a great mural. Atmosphere is good, with authentic Mexican food known for fresh tortillas and a variety of flavorful salsas. It gets very busy on weekends and offers affordable prices with ample nearby parking.

Tacos here stand out for their amazing quality and authentic Guerrero-style flavors. The grilled fish tacos and fresh tortillas add to the very tasty and affordable options available.

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
Teddy's Cocina image 1
Restaurant

Spacious restaurant with laid-back vibe and big screen TVs showing sports. Atmosphere feels casual and genuine with chill energy despite music that includes explicit content. Seating is ample but can get hot inside without outdoor options or air conditioning.

Small but delicious tacos feature traditional street flavors with a fresh twist. Standouts include potato tacos and grilled shrimp, served with flavorful salsas and attentive service.

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.

08
Baja Fresh image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with authentic atmosphere and varied food choices including vegetarian options. The space is clean and offers comfortable outdoor seating. Service runs with a small crew, maintaining smooth operation despite limited staff.

Steak tacos stand out with their fresh flavor and satisfying taste. The menu also offers burritos and quesadillas, making it a solid spot for classic Mexican dishes.

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 salsa here is delicious and fresh."

"The salsa bar here is delicious."

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.

09
Mi Casa Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, family-run Mexican restaurant offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with a home-like vibe. Known for authentic carnitas and grilled chicken tacos, it serves affordable, hearty portions in a no-frills setting.

Tacos come with super warm tortillas and burst with flavor. Varieties like carnitas and Al Pastor stand out for their rich taste.

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."

"The carnitas and al pastor tacos are super flavorful."

"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.

10
Puebla Tacos 2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy indoor seating creates a homey atmosphere with authentic Mexican flavors. The place offers sizable portions and complimentary spicy chips and salsa. It serves as a casual spot favored for tender lengua burritos and flavorful dishes.

Tacos feature authentic flavors with options like fish, birria, and queso birria. Prices hover around four dollars, with some finding them too expensive for the portion and quality.

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.

11
Sofia's Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with a colorful, remodeled look and hole-in-the-wall energy. Atmosphere feels family-owned and cozy, with free chips and salsa accompanying meals. Food highlights include mole sauces, pozole, and carnitas tacos, offering a casual and authentic dining experience.

Carnitas tacos stand out with a flavor close to homemade. Taco nights run from Thursday to Sunday until 11 pm, making it a regular weekend spot for grabbing tacos and multitas.

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."

"The carnitas tacos here were 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.

12
Madre Maiz Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

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.

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.

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."

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

"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.

13
Roll Em Up Taquitos - Pasadena image 1

Open concept Mexican restaurant with vibrant patio seating and reggae music sets a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Board games and free books add a playful touch while plenty of parking accommodates various vehicles. Artistic decor and clean grounds create a welcoming environment.

Crunchy ground beef tacos and taquitos deliver a crispy beef texture with delicious flavor. Rolled tacos come alongside protein bowls, offering a solid take on classic Mexican street food.

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."

"I loved the crispy beef tacos here."

"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.

14
Fonda Doรฑa Julia image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with a family-run atmosphere and nostalgic vibe. Offers authentic home-style cooking with homemade tortillas and spicy salsas. Most guests take food to go, enjoying affordable prices and generous portions.

Tacos come hot and soft with onion, cilantro, and cooked beef. Fish tacos stand out in this hole-in-the-wall spot, while carne asada tacos offer a lighter, less marinated flavor.

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."

"You can't go wrong with their delicious tacos."

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.

15
El Matador Authentic Mexican Food image 1

Mexican restaurant offers authentic flavors with a fast and casual vibe. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, with a family-friendly and lively setting. Popular for large, satisfying wet burritos and dishes like pollo mole.

Hard shell tacos have a fluffy texture that feels like a sandwich in bread. Shredded beef and chicken options come in very filling portions with flavorful fillings.

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 tacos here are outstanding, especially the beef."

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.

16
Los Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with authentic decor and a chill atmosphere offers excellent salsas and delicious tacos. The environment stays quiet and clean, with free onsite parking available. Prices tend to be on the higher side compared to typical street tacos.

Tacos come packed with loads of meat and strong flavors. The potato taco stands out as a favorite, alongside marinated pork, softshell chicken mole, and green-chili pork options.

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."

"I tasted the best hard tacos I ever had."

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.

17
Tortas Mexico image 1
Mexican restaurant

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.

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.

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 thought the salsa here was really great."

"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.

18
Pollos Puebla #1 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with family-owned charm and walls adorned by colorful murals creates a vibrant atmosphere. The air conditioning runs strong, making the space cool despite the hot food served. Known for juicy grilled chicken and fresh salsas, it offers generous portions with a slightly upscale price point.

Street tacos come with flavorful salsa and taste delicious. Carne asada burritos and tacos also stand out. Pricing runs about $4 per taco, with a meal of a burrito, two tacos, and a drink around $30.

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.

19
La Estrella Tacos #2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating with a spacious patio and covered areas creates a relaxed, casual vibe. The place draws a steady crowd seeking quick, affordable meals with high-quality tacos and burritos. Service involves ordering at a window, fitting the easygoing, no-frills atmosphere.

Fish tacos stand out as fantastic and large, especially the shrimp and fish options. Tacos like tongue and head are excellent, served quickly with efficient service and reasonable prices.

Salsas here have great flavor with the red salsa being very spicy and the green salsa generally well-liked.

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."

"I thought the salsa here was the best around."

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.

20
Amigo's Restaurant and Cantina image 1

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.

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.

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."

"The chips and salsa here are excellent and flavorful."

"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.

21
ANAYA'S RESTAURANT image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant offers large family seating and a well-stocked bar with quality cocktails. Live music creates a lively atmosphere, though noise levels can be high. Outdoor patio provides a comfortable al fresco dining experience.

Carnitas and carne asada tacos stand out with rich flavors and tender meat. Chicken and fish tacos come well prepared, alongside crispy taquitos and flautas that add variety.

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 margaritas here are well made and potent."

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.

22
Tacos El Pollo (Restaurant) image 1

Taco restaurant offers varied salsa options and generous meat portions despite small, firm tortillas. Atmosphere includes busy takeout service with parking usually available in the lot. Food quality varies, with some tacos noted as tasty and others dry or greasy.

Carne asada and Al pastor tacos stand out with generous meat portions. Tacos come with fast service and good prices, making it a solid spot for tasty tacos and quesadillas.

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.

23
Margaritas Mexican Restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant combines colorful traditional decor with a family-style atmosphere that feels like dining at home. A lively mariachi band often plays, enhancing the vibrant cultural vibe. The space splits between a restaurant and cantina, offering distinct dining and social experiences.

Tacos come with tender, flavorful meat and generous portions. Fish tacos stand out with an incredible sauce, and the $2.75 taco special offers solid value.

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 tacos on Taco Tuesday."

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
La Fiesta Grande Mexican Restaurant image 1

Small space with colorful decor and a cozy, festive atmosphere. Music plays at a comfortable volume, creating a relaxed, lively vibe where conversation is easy. Known for potent margaritas and authentic Mexican food, it feels like an authentic family restaurant.

Fish tacos have a great flavor and tacos come with plenty of meat. Beans served with the meal are delicious, but asada tacos have a bad taste and old meat flavor.

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."

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

"I loved the tacos; they were delicious and generously portioned."

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.

25
El Torito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spanish-style building offers modern renovations with separate dining areas including sports TVs and banquet space. Atmosphere ranges from loud bar with live mariachi music to more relaxed dining sections. Brunch features unlimited mimosas and live entertainment, creating a festive vibe.

Tacos come with handmade tortillas and offer great taste without overpowering flavors. Taco Tuesday features $3 tacos and runs from 3-10 pm with drink specials and a tapas bar option.

Unlimited nachos and salsa come quickly with attentive service that keeps chips and salsa refilled. The salsa is tasty and warm, prompting requests for more.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was delicious and flavorful."

"The house salsa is great, and the servers are attentive."

"The Birria Tacos were an awesome choice."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 3pm to 9pm in the cantina and bar area.

2

Karaoke night happens every Friday from 5pm to 11pm.

3

The price for brunch is $24 per person, which is considered a bargain.

26
King Taco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Fast food Mexican restaurant with a spacious dining area and bright, clean interior. Atmosphere feels nostalgic and inviting despite occasional sketchy moments. Known for affordable prices and authentic flavors in tacos and burritos.

Tacos feature authentic Mexican taste with citrus-flavored asada meat and options like lengua, al pastor, and cabeza topped with onions and cilantro. Prices stay unbeatable while the hot red sauce adds a perfect kick.

Green salsa stands out with its drinkable freshness and bold flavor. Both salsa verde and roja bring authentic Mexican taste that pairs perfectly with dishes like chicken flautas and Carne Asada nachos.

People are saying

"I always come back for the consistent Mexican food here."

"The salsas here are flavorful with a delightful kick."

"King Taco's tacos are so consistent, I always know what I'm getting."

Good to know

1

Parking at King Taco is difficult and often inconvenient.

2

You can only order online after they open at 10am.

3

They charge $1 for an extra hot sauce.

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