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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Riverside's best

Lunch and salsa

You require a lunch spot that understands the importance of a good salsa.

Based on 727 Opinions
+724
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Updated July 2026
01
Tacos Marline image 1
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Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with outdoor seating and a semi-liquor store style interior. Atmosphere feels casual and busy around noon, offering generous portions of high-quality Mexican food. Known for breakfast burritos and flavorful tacos, it also provides catering services.

Quick service stands out during lunch, especially when time is tight. Staff respond fast and keep things moving smoothly.

Salsa stands out for its authentic flavor and delicious taste. Whether made on-site or sourced elsewhere, it consistently delivers a tasty experience.

People are saying

"The burritos here are so good, I had to write this review before finishing."

"The homemade fries at this lunch spot are delicious."

"I found the salsa to be amazing and very tasty."

Good to know

1

They charge $1 for card payments without prior notice.

2

There is plenty of outdoor seating available.

3

The place gets busy around noon, so expect a crowd.

02
Maria's Mexican Kitchen image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small restaurant with tasteful old school decor offers a dark, cozy atmosphere that feels like a warm hug. Outdoor seating adds to the relaxed vibe, which stays quiet and comfortable without being crowded or loud.

Lunch specials offer solid options like the chile verde wet burrito. The spot works well for a casual lunch with family or friends.

Chips come fresh and warm with perfect crispiness. Salsa offers a balanced heat with hints of roasted peppers and cilantro.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and very tasty."

"The salsa here is authentic and the service is always friendly."

"This lunch spot has amazing food that's priced right."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and there is no waiting on Saturday evenings.

2

The menu offers a variety of options, including a kids menu.

3

Expect to pay around $50 for a meal for one person.

03
Dos Hermanas Mexican food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy Mexican restaurant with comfortable booth seating and a quaint layout wrapping around the kitchen. Atmosphere feels clean and inviting with a friendly vibe. Known for authentic, flavorful dishes and reasonable prices, it draws those seeking genuine Mexican food in a relaxed setting.

Late lunches welcome families with a Friday lunch special available. The spot invites guests for a relaxed midday meal.

Salsa has a spicy kick and a delicious tomato base. It tastes very good and adds a nice heat.

People are saying

"I thought the street tacos were some of the best I've ever had."

"The Lunch Spot food was amazing and fresh."

"The salsa here is amazing and has a real kick."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos every week.

2

Expect a clean environment with well-maintained restrooms.

3

Parking is available nearby for easy access.

04
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 features quick service with attentive staff who get you in and out during the hour. The menu offers lunch combos like chile relleno and chicken enchilada with rice and beans, served in a neighborhood Mexican diner setting.

Chips come homemade and pair with salsa that is spicy and flavorful. The salsa stands out as very good and complements the meal well.

People are saying

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

"The salsa here is spicy and flavorful."

"The green Pozole at this Lunch Spot is so good."

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.

05
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.

Lunch here offers options beyond fish tacos and supports phone orders for convenience. Meals suit group settings and casual dining with friends.

Salsa here is fantastic and full of flavor. Servers keep the chips and salsa coming without pause.

People are saying

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

"The salsa here is fire and full of flavor."

"The Mexican food at this Lunch Spot is really good."

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.

06
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.

Lunch includes weekday specials and taco deals on Tuesday and Thursday. Food suits breakfast, lunch, and dinner with options to take home.

Freshly made fire roasted salsa comes with well-seasoned chips that complement it perfectly. Free refills keep the flavorful chips and salsa flowing throughout the meal.

People are saying

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

"Their salsa is homemade and delicious."

"This lunch spot's food is so delicious, I couldn't wait to eat it."

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.

07
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.

Lunch hours get packed quickly with a lively crowd. The spot offers consommรฉ and plays music that can be a bit loud during lunch.

Complimentary salsa and grilled jalapenos come with the meal. The red salsa pairs well with everything, while the green salsa stands out as amazing. Hot salsa is also available.

People are saying

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

"I loved their fish tacos; they were super fresh and crispy."

"The birria tacos and consommรฉ at this Lunch Spot are delicious."

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.

08
Tacos al Fuego image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a lively vibe with Mexican-inspired decor and a front patio. Music plays at a balanced volume, often featuring a DJ that keeps energy high. An extensive tequila selection and a salsa bar provide distinctive drink and food options.

Lunch specials include two crunchy tacos, beans, and rice for $9.99. Salsa comes with the meal, and Modelo Negra is available to drink.

Soft, flavorful meats pair well with homemade salsas that add an extra layer of taste. The house salsa and several options at the salsa bar stand out for their great flavor.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be awesome."

"I tried every salsa and loved them all."

"The Lunch Spot salsas are among the best I have ever had."

Good to know

1

The $9.99 lunch special includes 2 tacos with rice and beans.

2

Happy hour offers great prices on drinks and appetizers.

3

Taco Tuesday is a popular event worth planning for.

09
Coffee Court Bistro image 1

Small, cozy coffee shop with an eclectic, homey vibe and interesting art on the walls. Atmosphere feels relaxed and friendly, perfect for quiet coffee breaks or brunch. Offers comfortable seating and a mom-and-pop character that stands out from bigger chains.

Offers a solid mix of coffee and lunch options suitable for a midday break. Serves well during busy days with a relaxed spot to eat and grab a drink.

Homemade salsa offers a hot and spicy kick with chipotle heat that leaves a good sizzle. It adds flavorful spice to dishes like the breakfast burrito.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be outstanding and strong."

"This lunch spot's Cajun chicken sandwich is delicious."

"The breakfast burrito is packed and very filling."

Good to know

1

The medium-sized americano costs $3.20, which is affordable compared to other local coffee shops.

2

The cafรฉ offers a self-service option to avoid lines or wait times.

3

The bistro opens early, making it a good spot for breakfast.

10
Tacos El Jr 6 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic dishes with generous portions and freshly made tortillas. Atmosphere stays friendly and moderately quiet, with plenty of seating. Pricing leans slightly high but provides good value for the quality and quantity of food.

Extremely quick service handles the lunch rush well. The campechana stands out as a consistent lunch choice and makes this a reliable work lunch spot.

Salsa here comes very hot, especially the habanero or arbol styles served taquero style. The salsa is on the spot and flavorful, but it lacks a good green salsa option.

People are saying

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

"I loved my lunch here; the food was great."

"The salsa here is great."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the back, with the entrance on the right side.

2

The restaurant has generous portions at reasonable prices.

3

Expect a casual atmosphere; no dress code is enforced.

11
Tacos Tacos Y Antojitos image 1
Fast food restaurant

Air-conditioned space with handmade tortillas and fresh daily food creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. The menu offers vegetarian options alongside flavorful tacos and tamales. Parking is available with handicapped accessibility, supporting easy access for all.

Tacos stand out as a solid choice for lunch here. The spot works well for both lunch and dinner with reliable flavors.

Salsas offer flavor explosions with a range from average to pretty good. Some find them less spicy than expected, but the homemade tortillas pair well with the salsa options.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the flavorful meats."

"The meat at this Lunch Spot is so flavorful and perfectly cooked."

"The salsas here are delicious flavor explosions."

Good to know

1

There are 10 parking spaces in the back and additional parking on the side street.

2

The inside of the restaurant is clean and well-maintained.

3

They make everything fresh daily, ensuring quality food.

12
Pepitos Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Rustic furniture and traditional colors create an authentic Mission-style design with original artwork that offers a cultural snapshot. The atmosphere feels homely and lively without being noisy, complemented by music and a relaxing patio with a beautiful view. A bar, cantina, and outdoor seating add variety to the space's cool vibe.

Lunch features a fajitas lunch special that stands out. Shrimp cocktail and a jalapeno cucumber Margarita complement the meal well. The spot suits casual lunches with friends or dates.

Fresh chips come with a variety of delicious salsas and condiments. The salsa is consistently tasty and complements the chips well.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is fresh, creative, and always delicious."

"This Lunch Spot has the best food and service."

"The salsa here is fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features margaritas for $12.99 and $15.00 for mega size.

2

Taco Tuesday offers special pricing on tacos, but details are not specified.

3

The restaurant has a vegan menu available for those with dietary restrictions.

13
Birrieria Little Tijuana image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant with cozy atmosphere and simple, stylish decor. Music and a flat screen TV create a lively vibe while casual seating encourages quick visits. Popular and busy, it offers well-stocked birria tacos at reasonable prices.

Lunch hours bring a crowded scene with many people stopping by. Meals for a family come in at under $45, making it a budget-friendly option.

Salsa comes with the right amount of spice and is house-made. It arrives alongside limes, diced white onions, and pickled red onions for added flavor.

People are saying

"This Mexican food is the best birria I've ever tasted."

"The birria here is so tender and packed with flavor."

"This Lunch Spot's birria is juicy, flavorful, and packed with meat."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers special pricing on birria tacos.

2

Expect long lines during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant specializes in birria tacos only, with a limited menu.

14
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.

Lunch features a quick service with friendly, attentive staff. The lunch special includes a ground beef taco, enchilada, beans, and rice.

Chips and salsa arrive fresh and keep coming without pause. The salsa recipes stand out as incredible and addicting, setting a high bar right from the start.

People are saying

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

"I found the chips and salsa to be addicting and tasty."

"This Lunch Spot's food is cooked to perfection and super tasty."

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.

15
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.

Lunch offers tasty and filling meals that satisfy well. Frequent visits show it serves as a reliable go-to spot for midday meals.

Six homemade salsas come with tacos, including a thick, oily chile de arbol salsa that is spicy with the right kick. The tomatillo and roasted oily salsas offer spice without overwhelming heat.

People are saying

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

"The Salsa here has a cool, old-school gas station vibe."

"I found the lunch spot food to be delicious and filling."

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.

16
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.

Offers a quick stop for lunch with a decent menu. Prices feel a bit high for the lunch options available.

Green salsa delivers a good spicy kick while red salsa offers a flavorful heat that sneaks up gradually. Both salsas stand out as very good accompaniments to the food.

People are saying

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

"The red salsa is amazing and very hot."

"The service here is friendly and attentive, making it a great Lunch Spot."

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.

17
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.

Tacos, tortas, and burritos make up the flavorful lunch options here. Service can be slow or unhelpful, but the food is quick and fulfilling.

Complimentary chips come with spicy salsa options including a red salsa chiliquiles and an avocado salsa with a strong kick. The salsas pair well with drinks like agua de piรฑa and horchata.

People are saying

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

"I loved the spicy kick of the homemade salsas."

"Maggie's service at this Lunch Spot was always smiling and kind."

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.

18
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.

Lunch specials come with lunch express deals and margaritas priced at six dollars each. The spot serves consistently good lunch options that make it a reliable choice for midday meals.

Complimentary chips and salsa arrive with every visit. The salsa pairs well with warm tortillas and refried beans for a satisfying start.

People are saying

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

"The chips and salsa here are so fresh and delicious."

"The food at this lunch spot is amazing and delicious."

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.

19
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.

Lunch here draws a crowd, often requiring a 15-minute wait during peak hours. The menu focuses on vegan tacos that deliver a great lunch experience.

Variety of salsas stands out, especially the chile de รกrbol salsa which is a highlight. Salsas come on the side with tacos and burritos, adding fresh flavor and worth the extra cost.

People are saying

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

"This Lunch Spot's burritos are amazing and flavorful."

"I thought the chile de รกrbol salsa was exceptionally good."

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.

20
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.

Lunch menu satisfies most people here. The spot feels cozy and servers provide friendly service during lunch.

Habanero salsa offers a spicy kick and pairs with chips. Salsa and chips come at an extra cost, sometimes served with appetizers like chicken taquitos.

People are saying

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

"This Lunch Spot has delicious tacos and fresh ingredients."

"Our server Christian checked in on us and refilled our water quickly."

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.

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.

Lunch offers delicious dishes with a variety suitable for group occasions like birthdays and office events. Expect a wait time around 50 minutes during busy periods.

Complimentary mole and salsa come with chips, offering two different options to sample before choosing. The bottled salsa stands out as phenomenal, spicy, and addicting with fresh, flavorful taste.

People are saying

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

"I could tell they get down with the rest of the menu despite the salsa."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious and authentic."

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
Tam's Burgers image 1
Restaurant

Small, cozy restaurant with loud music and a pleasant atmosphere. Offers affordable prices and an outside bench with a nice breeze. Food includes breakfast burritos and chili cheese fries with mixed reviews on freshness and flavor.

Lunch includes pastrami chili burger often served to go. Burgers appear pre-made rather than freshly cooked. Service can be slow during lunch hours.

Salsa comes with a nice kick but costs extra without upfront notice. Only one type is served even when charged, and it pairs with dishes like cheese fries and breakfast burritos.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were amazing and delicious."

"The lunch spot meals here are huge and satisfying."

"The salsa and cheese fries were enough to feed two people."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, especially for larger vehicles like trucks and trailers.

2

Prices are fair; a family pack of 4 burgers with fries costs about $35.

3

Burritos weigh almost 2 pounds each, providing good value for the price.

23
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.

Lunch features great specials like $1.50 tacos on Taco Tuesday. Service stays amazing and quick, fitting well into a busy lunch hour.

Chips come with fresh salsa that stands out enough to take home. A salsa and condiment table offers a wide range of taco toppings including a notable habanero salsa.

People are saying

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

"The lunch specials here are delicious and generously portioned."

"The salsa here is so good, I had to take some home."

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.

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