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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Riverside's best

Taco date spots

A casual taco dinner keeps the conversation easy and the mood light.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Mariscos Los Peloteros image 1
Mariscos Los Peloteros image 2
Mariscos Los Peloteros image 3
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Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers large portions of seafood with homemade tortillas and spicy habanero sauce. Atmosphere includes Taco Tuesday discounts that attract crowds seeking flavorful fish and shrimp tacos. The vibe balances generous servings with a focus on authentic, bold flavors.

Shrimp and octopus cocktails and Aguachiles with black sauce stand out as flavorful choices. Tacos like the Fredilla and Gobernadores add variety for sharing or taking home.

Shrimp tacos stand out with freshness and bold habanero sauce that adds serious heat. Fish and gobernador tacos also deliver solid flavors, especially with the punchy arbol salsa on the asada taco.

People are saying

"The seafood cocktails here are full of flavor and delicious."

"The fish and shrimp tacos here are the best I've ever had."

"I thought the fish and shrimp tacos were the best."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers special discounts on tacos every Tuesday.

2

Expect large portions of seafood with every meal.

3

Calling ahead for the daily special can lead to a pleasant surprise.

02
Vegan Vatoz Casa Deโ€™ Tacos image 1

Food truck serves all vegan Mexican cuisine with fresh, high-quality ingredients and bold, creative flavors. Outdoor seating includes picnic tables in parking lot with music playing, creating an inviting and authentic vibe. Popular for flavorful vegan proteins and unique vegan tacos and burritos.

Burritos here come in large sizes, often shared between two people. Options like the California Burrito with Asada and various tacos offer variety for a casual date meal.

Tacos here feature a creative twist on traditional Mexican flavors with bold flavors and satisfying textures. Options like carne asada, birria, and carnitas come in all-vegan versions that stand out for their taste and quality.

People are saying

"You have to try their amazing vegan tacos and burritos."

"These vegan tacos are so flavorful and satisfying."

"The food here is seriously amazing, especially the burritos."

Good to know

1

They offer specials throughout the week that make some items more affordable on specific days.

2

Tacos with vegan egg are excluded from the $2 taco Tuesdays offer.

3

The restaurant's hours change daily, so check before visiting.

03
Hecho Al Carbon image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space fills with the aroma of sizzling meats and wood charcoal. Casual, lively vibe with good music and a salsa bar offering multiple options. Atmosphere feels clean and friendly despite tight quarters.

Lunch here offers shareable loaded potato popota and burritos with red salsa that stand out. The spot suits casual daytime dates with flavorful, easy-to-enjoy dishes.

Tacos come loaded with meat and have a strong reputation for being amazing and highly rated. They stand out as a go-to taco spot known for quality and flavor.

People are saying

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

"I found the tacos here to be some of the best around."

"These date spots are great for tacos with generous meat."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times on weekends due to limited seating.

2

Taco Tuesday offers $2 tacos, a great deal for visitors.

3

The restaurant charges a 3.2% convenience fee for debit card transactions.

04
Morena's Mexican Cuisine image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with an open, welcoming atmosphere and family-friendly vibe. Interior is clean and well lit, featuring great music and plenty of seating. The space balances casual comfort with a touch of charm, making it feel inviting beyond its strip mall exterior.

Dinner offers delicious dishes with generous portions like the chicken fajitas. Shrimp ceviche stands out with its freshness and vibrant flavors.

Fresh tacos include tacos de papas made off-menu and a standout Calamari taco. The carnitas taco impresses with rich flavor, while combo plates feature shredded beef tacos with beans and rice.

People are saying

"The food here is rich, flavorful, and authentic."

"The food here is fresh, high quality, and amazing for date spots."

"I found the tacos to be amazingly delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Daily specials are available, offering a variety of dishes at reduced prices.

2

Happy hour menu features discounted items, typically available from 4-6pm.

3

Expect longer wait times during busy weekend dinner hours.

05
Ramiro's Cocina Mexicana image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, charming hole-in-the-wall with authentic Mexican style and a nostalgic, home-like atmosphere. Quiet and casual with friendly energy and well-chosen music enhancing the experience. Known for delicious, spicy dishes and a warm, welcoming vibe.

Carne Asada plate stands out as a solid choice. Plates come out delicious and satisfying enough to cause a food coma.

Carne asada tacos come off-menu but staff gladly make them. Crispy beef tacos stand out as mouthwateringly delicious, even for those not usually into crispy tacos. Tacos go for $1.50 on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, rich, and exceptionally delicious."

"I found their carne asada tacos to be the best I've had."

"The food here is so good, it's perfect for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available from Monday to Friday.

2

Taco specials on Tuesday and Thursday cost $1.50 each.

3

Reservations are recommended due to a small menu that changes daily.

06
Palenque kitchen by Mezcal image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant combines dark, lively interior with two dance floors and a central bar. Music energizes the space, creating a family-friendly yet vibrant atmosphere. Colored lighting and Mexican art add to the trendy, festive vibe.

Frequent celebrations mark this spot as a solid choice for date nights and special occasions. It offers a mix of great music and food that fits both intimate and group gatherings.

Birria tacos stand out with rich flavor and great drinks alongside. Fish tacos and campechano tacos offer fresh, delicious options. Quesa Birria tacos and shrimp ceviche appetizers bring freshness and bold taste.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really good."

"I loved the DF asada and cilantro asada tacos."

"The food and drinks here are delicious and cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6:30 PM with $10 margaritas and discounted appetizers.

2

Palenque offers bottomless mimosas on Sundays.

3

The restaurant has only one restroom for all guests.

07
Jose's Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open salsa and chip bar invites self-service with variety of salsas and unlimited chips. Crowded space creates a loud, warm atmosphere with rustic decor and colorful art. Family-oriented crowd enjoys authentic Mexican dishes and well-made micheladas and margaritas.

Couples often share a huge wet burrito or the shredded beef enchiladas plate during quick lunch breaks. The spot suits casual dates with family or just two people enjoying Mexican food together.

Street tacos stand out with fresh ingredients and amazing carnitas. Shrimp and fish tacos offer a crispy texture that complements the flavors well.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and flavorful."

"You have to try the salsa bar with all the salsas."

"The food at these Date Spots is delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Daily specials change every weekday, usually costing about $8.

2

The menu offers a variety of options, from smaller plates to large nachos.

3

Prices are reasonable, with meals averaging around $20 per person.

08
Craftz Lounge image 1
Restaurant

Very small space with intimate seating and a DJ playing 90's and 2000's hip hop creates a lively but sometimes loud atmosphere. Outdoor patio seating adds an open-air option. The vibe shifts from cozy to energetic when music volume rises, affecting conversation ease.

Offers a cozy atmosphere that suits a date night well. Stands out as a new date spot choice.

Tacos come in several varieties like lobster, pork belly, and tenderloin. They offer a mix of seafood and meat options with rich flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding, perfectly seasoned, and amazing."

"I enjoyed the flavorful lobster and tenderloin tacos."

"The cocktails here are impressive and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for brunch, but seating is available at the bar without one.

2

Street metered parking is available, with a nearby structure charging $15.

3

The lounge is small, so expect limited seating during busy hours.

09
El Trigo Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with a cozy family atmosphere and authentic homemade tortillas. The vibe feels like eating in a home kitchen with funky but charming decor and music playing over a jukebox. It offers excellent traditional dishes that stand out from pricier downtown options.

Cozy, authentic Mexican vibe creates a relaxed setting for dates. Servers show kindness and patience, and the reasonably priced beer selection adds to the experience.

Tacos come in gigantic sizes with fresh corn tortillas and perfectly cooked meat. Options like chicharron, buche, cabeza, and pastor stand out for their rich flavors and tacos dorados offer a crispy twist.

People are saying

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

"The food here is delicious, flavorful, and tastes homemade."

"The tacos here are so friendly and made with care."

Good to know

1

There is no dedicated parking lot, but plenty of street parking is available nearby.

2

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible for those with mobility needs.

3

Prices are very reasonable for the quality of food offered.

10
Mariposas Cantina Urbana image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open floor plan features live mariachi music and neon skulls with glow-in-the-dark paint, creating a nightclub-like atmosphere with loud, energetic vibes. Tables sit close together, making the space feel lively and social. Photographers capture moments amid the bold Day of the Dead decor.

Offers a mix of charming fun and quiet catch-up vibes. Suitable for date nights and casual outings alike.

Tacos feature fresh avocado without mix-ins, catering to picky eaters. Options like Quesa Birria and carnitas deliver strong, consistent flavor.

People are saying

"The happy hour deals on tacos and margaritas were fantastic."

"You've gotta try the tacos on Taco Tuesday; they're a great deal."

"The mole enchiladas and barbacoa are top-shelf for date spots."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays offer an unlimited topping bar for $10 drinks.

2

Happy hour features discounted food options and good prices.

3

Reservations are not required for large groups, and separate checks are available.

11
El Fogon Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small dining space fills quickly with a friendly crowd and lively music. Atmosphere balances between hectic energy and great vibe, with self-serve salsa bar adding to the casual feel.

Large monster burritos stand out, often shared between two people. The Birria Quesadillas with consomme get a lot of attention, and the staff handles special requests like allergies carefully.

Birria tacos stand out with tender, juicy meat and come with flavorful consume. Plates include well-portioned tacos with rice and beans, and options like lettuce wrapped tacos show expert preparation.

People are saying

"This burrito is massive and could feed four people."

"I loved the salsa bar, especially the spicy salsa."

"You have to try the giant monster burrito; it feeds two people."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features special deals on tacos every Tuesday.

2

Portion sizes are large, often enough to share.

3

The dining area is small, so expect a cozy atmosphere.

12
Con Madre Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with authentic decor and beautiful artwork creates a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. Multiple TVs display sports while loud karaoke adds energy, making it lively and fun. The setting includes an excellent beach view enhancing the relaxed vibe.

Space feels very cute and cozy, making it a nice spot for couples. Frequent visits show it works well for lunch dates and casual meetups.

Tacos come well seasoned and bountiful with reasonable prices. Options include taco salad, tortas, and burritos for lunch and dinner.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and has amazing flavor."

"The tacos here are bountiful and very well seasoned."

"The food here is delicious."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens every Friday at 9pm.

2

Taco Tuesdays offer special pricing on tacos all day.

3

Reservations are recommended for karaoke nights due to high demand.

13
Olivia's Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Warm atmosphere with family vibe and authentic Mexican recipes creates a personable setting. Patio seating offers people watching opportunities, while indoor space tends to be loud and busy. Walls display awards and photos, adding a sense of history and pride.

Weekly visits make this a steady date night spot with consistently good food. Drinks, chips, and salsa arrive quickly, and dishes like the quesadilla fried burrito offer rich, flavorful bites.

Ground beef and carnitas tacos stand out with amazing flavor. Fish tacos come as a trio with thousand island and avocado crema. Options include shredded beef and chicken tacos, all packed with bold taste.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious, especially the chips and salsa."

"I thought the ground beef and carnitas tacos were very good."

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is family-owned and offers authentic Mexican food.

2

Parking is available in the back of the restaurant.

3

The restaurant has a separate room for private parties.

14
Dapper Dine & Lounge image 1

Restaurant offers an intimate setting with live jazz performances and an open kitchen. Atmosphere ranges from festive and joyful to loud, especially in the lounge area. Decor features green and gold accents with a beautifully remodeled interior and outdoor patio seating.

Bourbon-based blackberry cocktails offer a balanced, not overly sweet option. Dishes like chipotle pasta and piccata stand out for their flavor and lightness, making it a solid choice for a date.

Steak tacos come out hot and well-seasoned with a flavorful taste and perfect cooking. They look appealing and satisfy with their quality.

People are saying

"The food here tasted amazing and was perfectly cooked."

"The food here is delicious, especially the steak and lamb."

"I've never had crab cakes this good, even better than Five Crowns."

Good to know

1

Reservations are available on their website and OpenTable.

2

The restaurant offers steak specials on Monday and Tuesday.

3

Parking is easy and dedicated, which is rare in downtown.

15
Miches De La Baja image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a lively and colorful atmosphere and a beach-inspired interior. Noise levels vary from moderate to loud, with music and chatter filling the space. Known for Baja style tacos and micheladas, it offers a friendly and spacious setting despite a small footprint.

Food here suits a date with great flavors and shared drinks like micheladas and Cheladas. The shrimp cocktail stands out but feels a bit overpriced for its size.

Fish and shrimp tacos stand out with battered OG style and fresh flavors. Birria and papas tacos offer delicious, filling options alongside reasonable prices and Taco Wednesday deals.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, tasty, and delicious."

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

"I loved the fish and shrimp tacos; they were a great date spot."

Good to know

1

Taco Wednesday offers tacos for a dollar cheaper, making it a popular day.

2

Dinner for two costs less than $25, making it very affordable.

3

The menu includes tacos, burritos, and ceviche at reasonable prices.

16
Smoke and Fire Social Eatery image 1

Rustic restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with a dog-friendly patio that includes complimentary treats for pets. Atmosphere feels friendly and community-oriented with smooth music and a casual vibe. Strong focus on barbecue and craft beers, featuring brisket and a variety of margaritas.

Brisket stands out as a favorite dish for couples here. Fresh salads add a lighter option, making meals feel balanced and enjoyable.

Brisket tacos come with purple corn tortillas and are plated with care, offering extreme flavor in every bite. Tacos arrive with pretzel bites and cheese, creating a unique twist on traditional flavors.

People are saying

"The brisket here is tender and delicious, like Texas barbecue."

"You have to try the brisket tacos; they just melt in your mouth."

"You'll love the brisket here for your date spot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2 to 6 pm with a buy-one-get-one-free deal on draft beer.

2

There is only one restroom available for about 80 people.

3

The restaurant is family-friendly and dog-friendly.

17
Habanero | Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a family friendly atmosphere and colorful decor creates a cozy, inviting vibe. Good acoustics allow easy conversation, and a well-decorated banquet hall adds to the space's appeal. The patio offers a pleasant outdoor option, complementing the lively yet comfortable environment.

Lunch dates work well here with a casual vibe. The spot does not suit a dinner date setting.

Soft tacos like the Carnitas stand out with rich flavor. Both hard shelled and beef tacos come in solid combo plates. Tacos overall show excellent quality and taste.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so good, especially the pozole and enchiladas."

"It's a welcoming spot where the staff is attentive and gentle."

"The carnitas taco was so good, the pork was tender and seasoned."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available during the lunch hour.

2

Parking is available on the street and is easy to find.

3

Individual checks are provided for each table.

18
Van Buren Drive-In Theatre and Swap Meet image 1

Drive-in movie theater with three large screens and a family-friendly atmosphere under the night sky. The vibe is relaxed and fun, with many kids and families enjoying the experience together. A snack bar and swap meet add to the casual, old-time feel of the place.

Offers a drive-in theater setting ideal for couples and families. Creates a casual, inexpensive atmosphere for date nights and family outings.

Carne asada tacos come in big portions at a small price. The snack bar offers a large variety of tacos, and the vendor inside is known for being amazing.

People are saying

"It's a fun, comfortable place to catch a movie with family."

"It's a great spot for date nights and family outings."

"The carne asada tacos here are always really good."

Good to know

1

Entry fee is $1 for the swap meet and movie night.

2

Arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure a good parking spot.

3

Movies during summer start at 8:30 PM.

19
Birrieria Gonzalez image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers spacious, clean interior with loud music and TV screens showing food images instead of menus. Customers find best birria tacos here, though service is informal with styrofoam plates and plastic utensils. Parking includes a unique horse cage amenity.

Mini pancakes add a sweet touch to the menu. Birria tacos and carne asada tostadas offer savory options for sharing.

Tacos feature rich, savory birria with a perfectly complemented consommรฉ. The birria tacos stand out for their deep flavor and satisfying taste.

People are saying

"The food here is really delicious and fresh."

"The birria tacos here are tender, flavorful, and absolutely delicious."

"The tortas and tacos here are fantastic and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available nearby.

2

The thermostat is set to 50 degrees, making it very cold inside.

3

Expect to wait for food and drinks, especially with a group.

20
Rodrigo's Mexican Grill - Riverside image 1

Cozy dining room with comfortable booths and low lighting creates a pleasant, lively atmosphere. Different sections offer privacy for groups and a chill vibe for casual hangouts. Bar area serves a variety of drinks including margaritas and Pacifico beer.

A cute spot for a margarita date night with quality food and drinks. Popular orders include the chile relleno burrito and carne asada burrito with beans and rice.

Taco Tuesdays feature a street taco bar with delicious fish tacos topped with cabbage and diced pineapple. Mexican dishes include Carne asada plates and hard tacos alongside enchiladas and nachos.

People are saying

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

"The food here is so delicious, I love the rellenos."

"The Taco Tuesday street tacos were fantastic."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Reservations require a 20% tip upfront for large groups.

3

Expect to pay around $130 for a meal for four.

21
Zacatecas Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with authentic decor and art-filled walls creates a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Spacious seating allows for comfortable dining despite occasional crowding. Drinks like Cadillac margaritas and micheladas complement traditional dishes such as carne asada and mole.

Plenty of open tables create a relaxed setting for couples. Food arrives quickly and the tacos get positive mentions, making it a solid spot for a date.

Tacos come in large portions with flavorful carnitas that feel like two tacos in one. The potato taco uses mashed potatoes for a smooth texture, and the overall taco selection is consistently really good.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here has amazing flavor, especially the chilaquiles."

"The food here is good, making it a great spot for dates."

"I found the carnitas taco to be delicious and large."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for private events to ensure availability.

2

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

The restaurant closes at 3:30 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

22
Los Tacos Lokos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, modern Mexican restaurant with a clean, well-kept interior and simple decor. Atmosphere feels vibrant and welcoming, with a warm and inviting dining area that stays cool. Known for flavorful carne asada and excellent tortillas that stand out from typical offerings.

Chicken tacos stand out with flavor that satisfies even picky eaters. The spot offers a casual vibe suited for Mexican food lovers on date nights.

Tacos here are well seasoned and nicely cooked, with standout options like quesabirria and grilled beef tacos that pack more flavor than others in the area.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos were super delicious and flavorful."

"The service here is friendly and energetic, making it a great spot for dates."

"I thought the tacos were super delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Los Tacos Lokos is open late until 2:00am.

2

They stay open late on the weekends.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is recommended for quicker service.

23
Cactus Cantina image 1
American restaurant

American restaurant with a friendly, comfortable atmosphere and a noisy environment featuring distant jukebox music. It offers well-made margaritas with rim options and a fish tank that appeals to children. The layout feels dated and odd, but the place maintains a welcoming vibe.

Staff like Emery provide personalized care that makes couples feel valued. Returning with a partner who hasn't been before highlights its appeal as a comfortable date spot.

Tacos come in shredded beef, fish, shrimp, and ground beef varieties. Taco Tuesday specials offer good deals, though a plate with two tacos costs around $25.

People are saying

"I found the carne asada fajitas to have great texture and taste."

"The service for our tacos was so quick and impressive."

"The service here makes it a great spot for a date."

Good to know

1

Prime Rib Saturdays feature special pricing and limited availability.

2

Taco Tuesday offers discounted tacos, making it a popular choice.

3

Happy hour runs on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

24
Taco Station image 1
Mexican restaurant

Gas station-themed Mexican restaurant offers an open outdoor area with a large patio and outside bar featuring live music and a massive drink selection. Atmosphere is fun and inviting, with heaters and misters making it comfortable year-round. Vintage gas pumps and car-shaped topiary add unique charm to the setting.

Popular choices include the carne asada taco plate and enchiladas. Nachos also stand out as a shared favorite. Meals typically cost around forty dollars for two.

Tacos come with house-made tortillas and six homemade salsas. Fish, shrimp, and the hefty Pirate taco stand out for their fresh and delicious flavors.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here has a cool vintage service station theme."

"I loved the fresh, homemade tortillas with my tacos."

"You'll love the tasty tacos and carne asada plate here."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features discounted tacos and is popular among locals.

2

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

3

Parking is available nearby, but can fill up quickly during peak hours.

25
Mariposas image 1
Latin American restaurant

Latin American restaurant combines urban and greenery decor with a cozy, spacious layout suited for events. Atmosphere carries great vibes and a lively energy, attracting a diverse crowd. Multiple food stations offer varied choices, creating a dynamic dining experience.

Tacos here have a distinct flavor that stands out during a date. Ordering food to go is common, but watch out for unexpected surprises like hair in the meal.

Taco Tuesday features a great selection with fresh and flavorful options like asada, quesabirria, and pozole tacos. Prices stay reasonable while the service keeps tacos coming quickly.

People are saying

"The brunch food here is amazing, especially the churros."

"I loved the great price and well-served tacos during Taco Tuesday."

"I loved Taco Tuesday; the tacos were a great price."

Good to know

1

Reservations are accepted, but it's first come, first serve for the buffet.

2

Taco Tuesday features $2 tacos and happy hour from 3-7 PM, Monday through Friday.

3

The buffet costs $27 and is available without reservations.

26
Applebee's Grill + Bar image 1

Warm and cozy setting with soft low lighting creates a relaxed, family-friendly vibe. The atmosphere ranges from quiet to loud, depending on the time. Strong, flavorful cocktails and consistently good steaks stand out among menu options.

Dinner offers generous salad bowls and bourbon chicken with mashed potatoes. Drinks include options like prickly pear iced tea, which may not suit all tastes but won't be charged if unwanted.

Wonton chicken tacos stand out as a popular appetizer with a crispy texture and savory flavor. They pair well with sides like onion rings and fries, often enjoyed during happy hour.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great and flavorful."

"I loved the wonton chicken tacos; they're my favorite."

"The wait staff here is so friendly and attentive for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is from 3-6 pm and 9 pm to closing.

2

Half off appetizers during happy hour from 3 to 6:00 p.m. and 9 to close.

3

The all-you-can-eat deal is $15.99.

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