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Mexican food in San Clemente

A plate of tacos or enchiladas is the only thing that will satisfy a specific hunger for those familiar, savory flavors.

Based on 690 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Taqueria Luna image 1
Taqueria Luna image 2
Taqueria Luna image 3
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Restaurant

Tiny spot with a cozy patio and warm vibe serves fresh tacos like fish and carne asada. Staff speak Spanish, adding to the authentic atmosphere. Open late with reasonable prices and tasty Mexican dishes.

Tacos stand out with fish, carne asada, and pastor options that deliver strong flavors. Burritos like the carne asada and birria come with good taste and value, paired with fresh salsa and guacamole.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were the best."

"I thought this burrito might have been the best I've had."

"You have to try the yummy salsa with fresh tortilla chips."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features $2 tacos all day.

2

The restaurant is open until midnight on weekends.

3

Limited seating is available inside and in the shared walkway.

02
Primo Foods image 1
Grocery store

Local grocery store blends relaxed atmosphere with excellent Mexican food featuring fresh birria and carnitas tacos. Affordable street tacos drop to $0.69 on Taco Tuesday and Friday, drawing long lines. Free samples and smooth shopping add to the strong neighborhood vibe.

Tacos come with generous portions and fresh ingredients like birria, carnitas, and pollo asada. Taco Tuesday and Friday offer street tacos at $0.69, making them very affordable without sacrificing quality.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos were authentic, fresh, and delicious."

"The tacos here are cheap and delicious."

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is always fresh and authentic."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost $0.69 on Tuesdays and Fridays, $0.99 on other days.

2

Expect long lines on Taco Tuesdays and Fridays, sometimes wrapping around the corner.

3

Parking options are limited and can be quite challenging.

03
Bluestone Lane San Clemente Cafรฉ image 1

Coffee shop features charming outdoor seating and a quiet atmosphere perfect for work or study. Breakfast burritos with fresh ingredients offer a flavorful Mexican option. Small portions pair well with americanos, attracting a relaxed crowd all day.

Breakfast burritos come with scrambled eggs, spinach, bacon, avocado, cheddar cheese, and dill mayo. The Sunshine Burritos taste fresh and pair well with americanos. Portions are small but flavorful.

People are saying

"The coffee here is amazing and authentic Australian brew."

"The charming outdoor seating area is great for enjoying the morning."

"I loved their tasty breakfast burritos."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available near the cafรฉ.

2

The cafรฉ offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

3

The coffee menu is extensive, featuring Australian-style drinks.

04
Rose Cafe & Donuts image 1

Donut shop shines with fresh donuts and steak breakfast burritos. Clean, chill vibe with limited outdoor seating adds to the relaxed feel. Locals love the reasonable prices and early grilled food cutoff keeps it cozy.

Breakfast burritos stand out with steak and fries, chorizo and potato, and a classic California burrito option. Burritos and sandwiches offer solid choices for breakfast and lunch.

People are saying

"The donuts here are so delicious and fresh."

"I thought the breakfast burrito was dynamite and huge."

"I loved their breakfast burritos; they were dynamite."

Good to know

1

They stop grilling food at 2pm, even though they are open until 3pm.

2

The prices are very reasonable, with sandwiches costing around $12.

3

They have leftover donuts after they stop serving grilled food.

05
Nomads Canteen image 1
Restaurant

Enjoy Tex-Mex classics like tacos and fresh fish with standout salsas and guacamole. Vibrant surf culture vibes fill the lively two-level patio with space heaters. Sip on house-made margaritas while soaking in the energetic atmosphere.

Menu features Tex-Mex classics like tacos, nachos, and Tortas with fresh fish and vegetarian options. Salsas and guacamole stand out, paired often with the house-made Watermelon Margarita.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really yummy and enjoyable."

"I enjoyed the great beer selection."

"The Mexican food here is delicious with great, friendly service."

Good to know

1

Parking on the premises is limited, but municipal parking is available nearby.

2

Nomads Canteen offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

3

The hotel is located in the heart of downtown San Clemente.

06
Seasurf Fish Co image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood spot shines with Baja style tacos and shrimp burritos packed full. Outdoor patio with heaters creates a laid-back vibe perfect for chatting. Quick table turnover keeps energy up while enjoying happy hour deals on tacos and poke nachos.

Fish and shrimp tacos stand out with Baja style flavors and fresh ingredients. Burritos come large and packed, especially the shrimp variety. Happy hour offers deals on tacos and poke nachos.

People are saying

"I thought the fish tacos were the best anywhere."

"It's a casual spot with really fresh, plentiful seafood dishes."

"The fish tacos are a spectacular deal on Tuesdays."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 PM with many items priced just a few dollars.

2

Enjoy $1 oysters and $3 battered fish tacos during happy hour on Tuesdays.

3

Parking is available behind the restaurant for easy access.

07
The Sunrise Cafe image 1

Old-fashioned diner offers a laid-back beach vibe with local art and quiet atmosphere. Breakfast tacos come in a set of three huge tacos with choice of potatoes. Outdoor seating adds to the small surfside town feel.

Breakfast tacos come in a set of three huge tacos with a choice of breakfast potatoes or hash browns. Burritos are very tasty and notably large in size.

People are saying

"I loved the breakfast here; the omelette and hash browns were amazing."

"The coffee here is really good and served in generous portions."

"You have to try the breakfast tacos; they're amazing."

Good to know

1

The cafe is located on a busy street corner with parking available in a back lot.

2

There are both counter service and tables available.

3

They are mindful of dietary restrictions.

08
Los Molinos Beer image 1

Brewery offers a cozy beer hall vibe with family-friendly patio and live music. Birria tacos shine on Taco Tuesday, paired with rich flavors and unique egg rolls. Surf videos add a vibrant atmosphere that welcomes locals and travelers alike.

Birria tacos and breakfast burritos stand out with rich flavors and solid preparation. Taco Tuesday offers a special menu featuring birria egg rolls and fries alongside classic tacos.

People are saying

"I loved the perfectly crafted beer here."

"You have to try the birria egg rolls; they're a standout."

"The Mexican Food here is solid, especially the Hazy IPA."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features a special menu that shouldn't be missed.

2

Live music happens every Saturday, creating a lively atmosphere.

3

The brewery is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

09
Coastal Cowboy CA Eats image 1
American restaurant

Modern country decor and cowgirl surf art create a warm, laid-back vibe. Bold, fresh flavors shine in fish tacos and smash burgers. Patio seating adds to the casual, inviting energy.

Fish tacos stand out with fresh, bold flavors and great taste. The menu also features smash burgers, breakfast burritos, and sides like fries and rodeo mac and cheese cooked to perfection.

People are saying

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

"The staff at Outdoor Seating were so sweet and attentive."

"The fish tacos here have super great flavor and taste fresh."

Good to know

1

On Thursday, all IPA beers are $5.

2

Expect a 30-40 minute wait during peak hours.

3

You can substitute a gluten-free bun for any sandwich or burger.

10
Ricos Mexican Food image 1

Small space with limited seating creates a cozy vibe. Breakfast burritos shine with home-made sauces and light flavors. Birria tacos and Carne Asada Cali offer rich, satisfying flavors paired with fresh guacamole and warm chips.

Breakfast burritos stand out with home-made sauces and a light, flavorful touch. The birria tacos and Carne Asada Cali offer rich, satisfying flavors, complemented by fresh guacamole and warm chips.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and fresh."

"I loved the huge burritos with great salsa."

"I found the breakfast burrito excellent, light, and flavorful."

Good to know

1

It can take a few minutes from ordering until the food is ready, so calling your order in advance is recommended.

2

There is seating inside and a few tables outside if you want to enjoy the beautiful weather.

3

The small bottle of water costs $2.35.

11
Surfin' Chicken Grill image 1
Chicken restaurant

Family-run spot shines with fresh grilled chicken and shrimp tacos that are never greasy. Enjoy homey atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating where dogs are welcome. Prices stay reasonable, making it a great choice for tasty Mexican food and casual dining.

Shrimp tacos come extremely fresh and not greasy, with fish burritos seasoned to perfection. Grilled red snapper and chicken quesadillas stand out, paired well with green spicy salsa.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be super delicious and fresh."

"The fish here is so fresh and perfectly cooked."

"The Mexican food here is so flavorful, especially the quesadillas."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a good selection of dishes to choose from.

2

Prices at Surfin' Chicken Grill are reasonable and not outrageous.

3

The restaurant is clean and has seating inside and outside.

12
Riviera Restaurant & Bar image 1
American restaurant

Modern design and comfy seating create a chill but elegant atmosphere with awesome music enhancing the vibe. Homemade chips and a breakfast burrito offer fresh flavors, while classic tacos and simple entrees like salmon shine. Space suits gatherings of any size, making it a hidden gem to meet and unwind.

Homemade chips and a breakfast burrito stand out with fresh flavors. The menu features classic tacos and simple entrees like salmon and sea bass, plus tasty taquitos during happy hour.

People are saying

"I loved the homemade breakfast burrito and chips."

"The shrimp during Happy Hour was the best I've ever had."

"The homemade chips and breakfast burrito at this Mexican food spot are delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant offers a bottomless mimosa deal during brunch hours.

13
Franco's Famous San Clemente image 1

Spacious Mexican spot shines with shrimp tacos and generous guacamole. Enjoy a lively bar with excellent margaritas and a pet-friendly courtyard for a relaxed vibe.

Shrimp tacos and enchiladas stand out with fresh, tasty flavors. The guacamole uses all avocado with no fillers and comes in generous portions. Taco Tuesday offers a phenomenal and affordable menu, and margaritas, especially during Happy Hour, are excellent.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and very well priced."

"The airy patio is a delightful spot for tasty Mexican food."

"You've got to try the Mexican Food; the chips and salsa are excellent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6pm and all evening on Tuesdays.

2

Taco Tuesday offers an affordable menu with great options.

3

Expect a small wait for seating during popular happy hour times.

14
San Clemente Ranch Market image 1
Mexican grocery store

Smoke from the grill signals authentic Mexican comfort food with quick takeout tacos and Al Pastor tacos as highlights. The atmosphere is down-to-earth and refreshing, drawing a steady local crowd. Generous portions and reasonable prices make it a solid choice for casual dining.

Quick takeout tacos and Al Pastor tacos stand out for their consistent flavor. The menu also features breakfast burritos, Asada Quesadillas, and fresh Mexican sweet breads alongside salsa and produce.

People are saying

"Their Al Pastor tacos and breakfast burritos are delicious."

"I found the Mexican food here to be the best genuine Mexican comfort food."

"I found great produce and meats at the market."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers the best deals on tacos in the area.

2

The market features a wide selection of authentic Mexican treats.

3

Prices are very reasonable compared to other local markets.

15
Chelas Mexican Kitchen image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy generous portions of flavorful burritos and tacos in a chill atmosphere with outdoor seating. Contemporary Mexican music and soccer on TV create a relaxing vibe like a beach shop in Mexico. Fresh chips and salsa add to the rich taste experience.

Generous portions of breakfast burritos stand out, especially the MVP and chorizo varieties packed with flavor. Fresh chips and salsa accompany burritos and tacos, with the Chile verde wet burrito and carnitas tacos noted for their rich taste.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was great and fresh."

"The tacos and rice and beans here are so good for Date Spots."

"The Mexican food here is really delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from 3 pm to close on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

2

Taco Tuesday offers great deals on tacos and is popular among locals.

3

On Wednesdays, enjoy fresh fish tacos with chips and salsa for $6 during Happy Hour.

16
Antoine's Cafe image 1

Small cafe with classic diner style and surfboards sets a cozy mood. Mexican dishes like California eggs Benedict and tacos shine alongside burgers. Outdoor seating is dog-friendly and shaded, perfect for relaxed or lively visits.

Breakfast features tacos, burritos, and California eggs Benedict made with care. The menu offers a solid variety including sandwiches and burgers alongside Mexican staples.

People are saying

"The food and service here were amazing."

"I loved the delicious breakfast, especially the fluffy pancakes."

"I found the Mexican food here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-minute wait for a table during peak breakfast hours.

2

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

3

The cafe opens at 6:30 am, perfect for early risers.

17
El Jefe Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Family-run cafรฉ serves authentic Mexican cuisine like tacos de lengua and huevos rancheros in a casual, welcoming atmosphere. Plenty of parking and bilingual staff make it easy to visit. Perfect spot to enjoy street-style tacos while watching the game with a beer.

Authentic Mexican cuisine shines with tacos de lengua, soft taco plates, and huevos rancheros. Tostadas feature cooked mushrooms, potatoes, and onions, while enchiladas and quesadillas offer solid options.

People are saying

"I thought the food was super good and made fresh in-house."

"This Mexican food felt so authentic, it was like being in Mexico."

"It's a family-owned restaurant, and the family welcomed us with a smile."

Good to know

1

The prices at El Jefe Cafe are very reasonable.

2

There is plenty of parking available, which is usually hard to find.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but there is a fee for ATM use.

18
Nomads Hotel image 1

Spacious rooms with wave noise machines offer a peaceful stay despite the lively upstairs cantina serving delicious Mexican food and great tequila. Location is perfect for walking to shops, restaurants, and the beach.

Upstairs cantina offers delicious Mexican food and great tequila. Complimentary drink tickets and welcome drinks add to the experience.

People are saying

"The vibe here is so laid-back and full of personality."

"The rooms here are wonderfully unique and clean."

"I loved the Mexican food, it's steps from the waves."

Good to know

1

The rooftop restaurant and bar closes at 10:00 PM.

2

Expect the upstairs hustle to end around 11 PM.

3

Surf camp is hosted at Nomads Hotel.

19
Los Patios Cocina Mexicana image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy Mexican spot shines with fresh homemade tortillas and shrimp tacos bursting with authentic flavor. Casual patio welcomes dogs, adding to the relaxed vibe. Large, rich burritos and bold Baja enchiladas complete the charming old downtown feel.

Shrimp tacos stand out with fresh homemade tortillas and authentic flavors. Burritos like the Chile Riano and Asada and Wet Chili Verde offer large portions and rich taste. Chips and salsa come top tier, and Baja enchiladas impress with their bold flavor.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, and Roxy is such a delight."

"This taco spot is a cute, cozy gem."

"The staff here are amazing Hidden Gems, always attentive and fun."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, making it easy to drop in.

2

Parking can be tight, especially during busy hours.

3

The restaurant is dog-friendly on the patio.

20
Baja Fresh image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating welcomes guests and their dogs, creating a casual vibe. A large salsa bar offers fresh, varied options that highlight the Mexican menu. Burritos and grilled fish tacos come in generous portions, though some dishes like fajitas may require a wait.

Fresh ingredients stand out, especially at the salsa bar with its large variety of salsas and guacamole. Burritos and grilled fish taco combo plates offer generous portions, though some items like fajitas may have a wait.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so fresh and tasty."

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

"The salsa bar has a nice selection and fresh ingredients."

Good to know

1

The menu features a variety of Mexican dishes, including burritos and tacos.

2

Expect to pay around $17 per person for a meal without drinks.

3

The restaurant offers large portion sizes suitable for sharing.

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San Clemente, California

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