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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Santa Barbara

Burritos and salsa

A burrito that balances the heat of the salsa with the rest of the ingredients, instead of letting the spice drown out everything else.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Tacos Pipeye image 1
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Taco restaurant

Small taco spot with handmade tortillas and a great salsa bar creates a relaxed, funky vibe. Seating includes limited tables and counter stools inside and outside, with many ordering to-go. The crowd is mostly Latino, enjoying well-priced tacos and cold beer in a casual setting.

Breakfast burritos come huge and delicious with a nice mix of ingredients. Barbacoa, stewed beef, veggie, and shrimp burritos all offer great flavors and generous portions.

A peanut salsa stands out with a rich, unique flavor. The salsa bar offers a range from mild to spicy with fresh, well-made toppings that complement the handmade tortillas perfectly.

People are saying

"The handmade tortillas make this Mexican food a standout."

"The salsa bar here has a great variety, from mild to spicy."

"I thought it had the best breakfast burrito in town."

Good to know

1

They offer a 3 taco special for $11, which is great for lunch.

2

The 4x12 deal provides excellent value for tacos.

3

There are limited tables, so most people order to-go.

02
Maiz Picante Taqueria image 1
Taco restaurant

Small, clean space with a modern, simple design echoes trendy Mexican taquerias. Loud, hype music sets an energetic vibe while the dining area feels tight and warm. Known for authentic tacos, vegan options, and notable margaritas, it offers a focused, no-frills experience.

Burritos here stay firm and not too wet, making them easy to take on a plane. The carnitas and carne al pastor burritos stand out, along with a vegan and vegetarian option that impresses.

Salsas come with tacos in four tasty options, including a standout orange salsa and a green avocado salsa that pairs well with chicken. Plates often include pickled radishes and a variety of excellent salsa choices.

People are saying

"These tacos are seriously delicious and flavorful."

"I loved the variety of salsas, especially the green avocado one."

"I found the burritos here to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking is available behind the building via Alamar.

2

The restaurant is open late for takeout but not for dine-in after 9 PM.

3

The menu includes great vegan and vegetarian options.

03
Rudy's Restaurant Upper State image 1

Counter-order setup with a basic dining area creates a casual atmosphere. Large portions and a variety of salsas define the food experience, with standout items like wet mole burritos and homemade soft corn tortillas. Pricing is slightly lower than local spots, and the place draws those seeking classic gringo Mexican flavors.

Mole burritos stand out with a wet mole sauce that many find delicious. Breakfast burritos come fast and taste great, with options like the three friends burrito offering a large, satisfying portion.

Several options of salsa Roja and verde sit at a well-stocked salsa bar. The red salsa stands out as quite tasty. Lime, cilantro, and onions often accompany the salsa on dishes like shrimp tacos.

People are saying

"The food here is generally good and the portions are huge."

"I loved their salsa bar with so many options."

"I found the breakfast burritos here delicious and tasty."

Good to know

1

Expect larger food portions than average at Rudy's.

2

A $1.50 surcharge applies to meals containing eggs.

3

Chips are no longer included with meals; expect to pay extra.

04
Los Arroyos Downtown Mexican Restaurant image 1

Unassuming Mexican restaurant with open dining area and lively salsa bar offering a wide variety of sauces. Atmosphere ranges from quiet to crowded and loud depending on the number of people. Outdoor seating includes a dog-friendly parklet.

Burritos come in large sizes and include options like steak in the arroyo burrito or fajita fillings. The burrito mojado is smothered in cheese, and meals often come with a wonderful salad on the side.

Freshly made ingredients fill the salsa bar with lots of choices. Both the salsa and guacamole taste delicious and offer a great variety.

People are saying

"The carne asada tacos are flavorful, tender, and smoky."

"The salsa bar has so many fresh, tasty choices."

"I loved the hearty Arroyo Burrito with steak."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is dog friendly if you sit in the parklet dining area.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere, especially during peak hours.

3

The paid parking lot is the best option for parking.

05
El Pastorcito Food Truck image 1
Mexican restaurant

Food truck offers Mexican street food with al pastor tacos featuring fresh pineapple and a salsa station with multiple salsas and limes. Outdoor seating includes heaters to stay warm while enjoying the ocean breeze. The spot is clean, convenient, and popular for catering large events.

Burritos here stand out for their delicious flavor and variety. Options like the veggie burrito and asada burrito offer satisfying choices with fresh ingredients.

Fresh, vibrant salsas come from a dedicated salsa station with limes. Staff at the salsa stand offer quick, helpful service when needed.

People are saying

"The food trucks here serve tacos that are the best I've ever had."

"I've never had better al pastor tacos; they're the best I've ever tasted."

"I thought the burritos were delicious."

Good to know

1

They have buy 2 get 1 free on their al pastor tacos on Tuesdays.

2

There is plenty of parking shared with Tri-County produce.

3

The area around the food truck is safe and spacious.

06
Little Alex's image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, clean space with ample outdoor seating and a heated dog-friendly patio offers a casual, relaxed atmosphere away from busy streets. Indoor area features a small bar and large TVs showing sports, creating a lively vibe that can get loud. Frequented for fresh, local Mexican food with standout dishes like fish tacos and specialty meats.

Breakfast burritos come with steak and eggs or regular fillings, both packed with meaty goodness. Sizes fit well with a beer, making them a solid choice for a hearty meal.

Salsas here taste very fresh with a mild Baja blend that hints at sweet and savory. Meals come with two salsa options and a warm basket of tortilla chips that pair well with the salsas and bean dip.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here tastes so fresh, especially the tacos."

"I thought the chips and salsa were very good."

"I found the breakfast burrito to be the best in town."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs every day from 3-6pm with good food and drink options.

2

There is plenty of free parking available at the new location.

3

The new location offers both indoor and outdoor seating for guests.

07
Santa Barbara Chicken Ranch image 1
Chicken restaurant

Chicken restaurant offers a casual atmosphere with fun salsa bar and huge portion sizes. Locals favor the spot for flavorful chicken and tri-tip, and it stays busy especially at lunchtime. Free parking and simple menu add to its straightforward appeal.

Burritos here stand out for their large size and exceptional taste. Options include tri-tip and chicken, with a simple menu that keeps choices clear and focused.

Salsa comes with meals in a great size and features a tasty piney twang. A small salsa bar offers a chance to experiment with different flavors, including a fire salsa verde.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food's chicken was the best I've had in a while."

"The chicken here is tender and seasoned perfectly."

"I was hooked on their chicken burritos."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a simple menu with grilled chicken and beef options.

2

Prices are reasonable, making it a good value for the portion sizes.

3

Expect long wait times during busy lunch hours.

08
Super Cucas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Vintage carniceria style blends with covered outdoor seating that includes heated areas and views of hills. The atmosphere feels authentic and comfortable, drawing a crowded, local crowd with a strong reputation for phenomenal burritos and a dedicated vegan menu.

Burritos here stand out for their generous portions and fast preparation, especially the vegetarian and breakfast options. The California and Ranchero breakfast burritos are known for being big and flavorful, often considered among the best in the area.

Charred green salsa stands out with its perfectly balanced flavor and easy digestion. The salsa bar offers a variety of excellent salsas that complement burritos well.

People are saying

"I thought the burritos here were the best I've ever had."

"They have a dedicated vegan menu with great options like vegan chorizo."

"The salsa here is off the chart good."

Good to know

1

Super Cucas has a dedicated vegan menu, including vegan cheese and vegan chorizo.

2

Parking is limited, so expect a packed lot during peak hours.

3

Super Cucas is popular among locals and often crowded.

09
Lito's Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, quaint Mexican restaurant with a cozy and charming atmosphere. Familiar faces work behind the counter, creating a warm, family-run vibe. Big screen TV, authentic cuisine, and limited seating define the space.

Breakfast burritos stand out with chorizo and Chile Verde options, paired with spicy red or green salsa. Carnitas and tri tip burritos also feature as solid choices.

Fresh, tasty salsas come in spicy red and very tasty green varieties. Chips arrive with delicious salsa that complements meals well.

People are saying

"The breakfast burritos here are huge and delicious."

"I loved the huge breakfast burritos; they were great for lunch too."

"I tried the breakfast burrito with spicy red salsa; it was life-changing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is small with limited seating.

2

During the lunch rush, there might be a wait for a table or the need to order to go.

3

The daily specials at Lito's come with rice, beans, and a drink.

10
Taqueria La Unica image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers lively, festive atmosphere with bright colors and traditional music. Seating includes cozy outdoor areas with a fireplace and heat lamps. A large, fresh salsa bar adds to the vibrant dining experience.

Burritos come with fillings like suadero, al pastor, birria, and quesabirria. The Fire Pastor burrito offers a spicy and flavorful kick. Many burritos are grilled on the outside for added texture.

An amazing salsa bar offers a delicious variety of salsas including pico de Gallo and piquin salsa. The salsa bar stays clean and well-stocked with napkins and utensils.

People are saying

"The salsa bar here is fresh and offers a great range of heat and flavor."

"The outdoor seating is amazing with a warm fireplace."

"I found the al pastor and birria burritos to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features $2.95 tacos, making it a popular choice.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers during weekdays.

3

The restaurant is very clean, even during busy hours.

11
Sazón Latino & Catering image 1
Family restaurant

Large patio with picnic tables and indoor seating creates a cozy atmosphere with friendly service. Outdoor area features a DJ and salsa bar offering unique salsas for taco customization. Neighborhood spot attracts a diverse crowd and maintains an authentic, comfortable vibe.

Burritos include options like chorizo, adobada, birria, and chile relleno. Some burritos contain mostly rice and beans without meat, which can affect their texture and appearance.

A great salsa bar offers a variety of salsas, including a notably good salsa Verde. Complementary chips come with flavorful salsas, and tacos can be customized with selections from the salsa bar.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating is great for enjoying flavorful food and fantastic salsas."

"The salsas here have great flavor and variety."

"I tried the delicious chorizo burrito."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tough on the weekends.

2

The restaurant attracts people of all ages.

3

You can customize tacos with salsa from their salsa bar.

12
Yona Redz image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant offers a cozy, casual atmosphere with live music and an extensive menu featuring traditional and fusion dishes. Outdoor patio seating includes heat lamps for comfort. The vibe suits late-night dining with a relaxed energy and flavorful options.

Burrito preparation takes about 30 minutes, ensuring fresh and carefully made ingredients. The burrito offers a delicious flavor profile that stands out among other options.

A salsa bar offers 5 or 6 authentic Mexican salsas with unlimited servings. The salsas pair well with chips and dishes like the veggie quesadilla with tomatillo salsa.

People are saying

"The birria tacos here have such a good beef broth flavor."

"The birria tacos with juicy shredded beef and flavorful salsa are a must-try."

"I considered the burrito here the best I have ever had."

Good to know

1

The lunch special with 2 tacos, consomme, rice, beans, and chips with salsa for $14 is a great deal.

2

Parking at Yona Redz is limited; expect to walk a few blocks.

3

Street tacos cost $2.50 each during Taco Tuesday.

13
Taquería Rincón Alteño image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with simple setup and lots of indoor seating offers large portions of fresh, flavorful burritos and tacos. Food comes out quickly, and payment is cash only. Salsas provide notable heat and freshness, enhancing the authentic experience.

Breakfast burritos come in a perfect size with a fresh mix of eggs, cheese, potatoes, and chorizo. The spicy flavor and salsa verde add a delicious kick, making them a standout choice for a hearty start.

Salsas come with a nice heat and a delicious salsa verde pairs well with burritos. Extra salsa is served on request, but some refrigerated salsa can taste sour or spoiled after a few days.

People are saying

"I craved their piping hot menudo to start my day."

"I found the crispy tacos here to be excellent."

"I really liked the nice salsa they served."

Good to know

1

The place is cash only, so bring cash to pay.

2

The bowl of menudo costs $20, the highest price for a bowl.

3

The burrito costs $17, so expect reasonable prices.

14
Palapa Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with authentic casual atmosphere and outdoor seating that feels like dining in Cancún. The vibe is family friendly and friendly, with a mix of local regulars and visitors. The space combines intimate indoor areas and a lively patio near the road.

Breakfast burritos feature small, hard chicken and sometimes scraps as filling. Some burritos lack flavor and can feel overpriced. Occasionally, foreign objects like plastic appear inside.

Chips come with bright, fresh salsa that has a complex flavor without too much spice. The salsa complements the authentic Mexican food well and is often praised alongside the chips.

People are saying

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

"I loved the fresh salsa flavor, it was excellent."

"I enjoyed the breakfast burritos here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-6pm on weekdays with great deals on drinks.

2

The restaurant offers a wide variety of menu options to cater to different tastes.

3

Palapa Restaurant has a pet-friendly patio area for dining with pets.

15
Taqueria Cuernavaca image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with a quiet, spacious dining area and a busy counter focused on takeout. Offers a self-serve salsa bar with fresh toppings and multiple salsas. Known for authentic Mexican dishes, including vegetarian tacos and standout items like gorditas and burritos.

Stellar burritos stand out here with rich flavors and satisfying portions. Tacos and burritos rank among the best in Santa Barbara, making them a clear highlight.

Salsas here stand out for their high quality and variety. The tomatillo salsa offers a unique, vivid flavor, and the salsa bar provides several great options to complement dishes like tacos with carnitas and al pastor.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food, especially the tacos, were delicious."

"The salsa here is flavorful and complements the juicy carne asada."

"I had one of the best burritos I've ever eaten."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is small and mostly caters to takeout orders.

2

Limited parking is available, so plan accordingly.

3

The online ordering system is quick and user-friendly.

16
Taqueria Santa Barbara image 1
Taco restaurant

Taco restaurant offers affordable tacos with a varied selection including vegetarian options like rajas and nopales. Atmosphere suits casual dining with sticky tables and a focus on fresh meat in tacos and tortas. Salsa, especially pineapple salsa, adds a flavorful touch to meals.

Burritos come with great deals every day and include options like wet carnitas with Mole and shrimp with guacamole. Veggie burritos and tacos offer solid variety, while breakfast burritos feature crispy bacon.

Salsas here have a tasty flavor with the pineapple salsa standing out as a great complement to meals. Some salsas bring a bit more heat than expected, adding a nice kick.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is piled high with meat."

"I thought the shrimp burrito with guacamole was worth the extra cost."

"I had the best burrito I've had in a long time."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost $2.50 each for carnitas or chicken.

2

Daily specials offer great deals on tacos and burritos.

3

The building is very clean and well-maintained.

17
Taqueria El Buen Gusto & Best Menudo image 1

Rustic Mexican restaurant offers classic dishes like carnitas and menudo with house-made tortillas. Atmosphere feels basic and somewhat outdated, with bilingual staff serving a wide variety of food. Portions are generous and prices reasonable for the area.

Super burritos come packed full of meat and are perfectly seasoned. The regular burrito includes pico de gallo, adding fresh flavor to the dish.

Salsa bar includes jalapeños, limes, and radishes, items rarely found elsewhere. Offers a variety of salsas and chips with a good selection of flavors.

People are saying

"The salsa here is amazing, especially the pico de gallo."

"I love their Mexican food, especially the burritos packed full of meat."

"I loved their carnitas burrito; it was the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Menudo is available on weekends only.

2

The restaurant is located in a small shopping center with limited parking.

3

Prices are on the higher side for a casual eatery.

18
El Sitio Restaurant - Salinas image 1

Outdoor seating defines the small, casual space with humble surroundings. The atmosphere reflects cultural roots through simple, authentic Mexican vibes. Large, flavorful burritos and a notable salsa bar attract those seeking authentic Mexican food and generous portions.

Burritos come in large sizes with fillings like rice, beans, ham, egg, and steak. Prices are high, with some burritos costing around $20 each.

Salsa offerings include mild green salsa, hot red salsa, and pico de gallo with a strong cilantro flavor. Cleanliness issues affect the overall salsa experience.

People are saying

"I tried some of the best tasting Mexican food tacos I've had."

"The Salsa here is so fresh and tasty."

"I thought their burrito was the best in town."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a little tight sometimes.

2

The restaurant has limited seating and is more of a takeout place.

3

The total cost for three burritos is about $50.

19
Little Heart Cafecito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers ample indoor and outdoor seating with a buzzing order buzzer system for food pickup. Atmosphere stays calm and not too busy, making it suitable for a quick morning bite. Breakfast burritos stand out as a signature item, praised for freshness and flavor.

Breakfast burritos come with a hearty portion and are loaded with chorizo or fresh veggies. The balance of ingredients is great, making them delicious and fresh every time.

Both red and green salsa are available and taste good. The usual salsa options are mostly out, leaving only a mild green salsa as the standard choice.

People are saying

"I've never had a breakfast burrito this good."

"I found the breakfast burrito to be amazing and filling."

"The chorizo burrito's salsa is excellent and one of the best."

Good to know

1

The cafe closes for a break until 2:30 PM daily.

2

There is a good amount of seating available inside the cafe.

3

Outside tables are available for those who prefer dining al fresco.

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