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Enchiladas and Mexican food in Santa Barbara

You want a proper enchilada plate that anchors your Mexican meal.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Maiz Picante Taqueria image 1
Maiz Picante Taqueria image 2
Maiz Picante Taqueria image 3
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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.

Enchiladas come with unique sauces, like a green sauce on the chicken enchiladas instead of the usual red. Cheese enchiladas stand out as next level, not your typical family-style, and options include chicken, steak, and carnitas with a good selection overall.

Tacos stand out with authentic Tijuana style and varied fillings like asada, pastor, lengua, birria, and shrimp. Vegan and vegetarian options exist alongside fresh, high-quality tortillas.

People are saying

"These tacos are seriously delicious and flavorful."

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

"I loved their delicious and flavorful tacos."

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.

02
Alma Fonda Fina image 1
Restaurant

Bright, intimate space with fun decor and patio dining options creates a lively atmosphere. Loud energy fills both inside and outside areas, welcoming diners and dogs alike. Focus on high-quality Mexican cuisine with thoughtful ingredient choices sets it apart from typical offerings.

Chicken enchiladas come with black mole sauce and offer a taste reminiscent of traditional family recipes. The Alma version stands out for its unique flavor.

High-end Mexican food features blue corn tortillas, Waygu brisket tacos, and duck tacos. Dishes like the Carne Asada Steak come with smoked pureed eggplant and queso, while the house chicken enchiladas evoke traditional flavors.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is incredible, especially the tacos."

"I thought this was something special, a truly magical dinner spot."

"These chicken enchiladas are amazing, just like abuela used to make."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner service to ensure a table.

2

The menu is limited but features high-quality, fresh ingredients.

3

Expect a unique twist on traditional Mexican dishes, not typical tacos or burritos.

03
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.

Crab enchiladas come stuffed with generous amounts of crab meat and stand out as a favorite. Plates often pair them with grilled shrimp and rib eye, creating a rich seafood experience.

Tremendous authentic Mexican food shines with tender, flavorful carne asada tacos and savory beef and chicken crispy tacos. The salsa bar offers fresh, tasty choices, and dishes like crab enchiladas, taquitos, fajitas, and pozole stand out for their rich flavors.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the crab enchiladas to be phenomenal."

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.

04
Azul Cocina Artesanal & Cantina image 1

Outdoor courtyard offers beautiful patio with propane heaters and romantic lighting, creating a calm and inviting atmosphere. A large bar complements the modern, elegant design. Margaritas and cocktail flights stand out as popular drink choices.

Lobster enchiladas come rich and decadent. Chicken enchiladas often feature mole sauce and taste incredible.

Mole stands out as a perfectly made, on-site specialty. Tacos with salmon and cauliflower offer impressive, delicious flavors. Drinks include refreshing Margaritas that pair well with grilled octopus and other dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"The Mexican food here is served in a beautiful, charming outdoor courtyard."

"The chicken enchiladas here are incredible."

Good to know

1

The restaurant charges $10 for bottled water and $10 for tostadas.

2

Expect an additional $15 charge on your card without explanation.

3

The menu offers vegetarian options and local vegetables.

05
Sazรณn Latino & Catering image 1

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.

Mole enchiladas come with a spicy peanut sauce that stands out for its rich, authentic flavor. Goat birria enchiladas also offer a deep, flavorful experience, while chipotle enchiladas have a watery sauce that lacks the expected intensity.

Salsas come in a variety with a standout salsa Verde. Dishes include quesobirria tacos with rich jus, mole enchiladas, goat birria, and a large Tlayuda made for two but often finished solo.

People are saying

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

"The mole enchiladas with spicy peanut sauce were rich and flavorful."

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

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.

06
Augie's of Santa Barbara image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open air patio overlooks a busy street with palm tree roof feature and beautiful bar. Atmosphere blends upscale fun with a local vibe, energized by music that evokes Mexico. Known for an exceptional tequila selection and handcrafted cocktails, it attracts those seeking a lively yet classy setting.

Seafood and chicken poblano mole enchiladas stand out with rich mole sauce and fresh ingredients. Vegetarian options also exist, catering to different diets with varied fillings.

Mexican dishes feature authentic flavors with highlights like chicken poblano mole enchiladas. Drinks include amazing margaritas and chips with salsa.

People are saying

"Hector was the best server for our Mexican food."

"I enjoyed the delicious, hand-crafted cocktails."

"The chicken poblano mole enchiladas were delicious."

Good to know

1

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

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy weekends.

3

The restaurant opens at 11:00 AM daily, but check for holiday hours.

07
La Cantina Bar & Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with indoor/outdoor seating and multiple TVs showing football creates a lively, sports-friendly atmosphere. The space combines heated patios and a cool bar vibe, attracting families and sports fans alike. Fresh, welcoming environment features beautiful decor and a casual, local cantina feel.

Mole and seafood enchiladas stand out with rich creamy chipotle sauce and fresh seafood. Both the mole and red sauce chicken enchiladas offer delicious flavors and good value.

Asada tacos stand out as a must-try with authentic, flavorful taste. The mole and red sauce chicken enchiladas offer rich, memorable flavors. Fresh ceviche, guacamole, and salsas complement the menu well.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are beautiful and taste amazing."

"The seafood enchiladas were the highlight of the meal."

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour is daily from 3:00-5:30 pm with a special menu.

2

The restaurant offers gluten-free options, but check with staff for preparation.

3

Parking is available in the Vons shopping center lot.

08
Rose Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Colorful, cozy Mexican restaurant with outdoor seating under air-plants and succulents creates a relaxed vibe. Atmosphere feels like a sunny Cantina and Grotto, lively yet comfortable. Popular for traditional family recipes and dog-friendly environment.

Cheese enchiladas come with two tacos on the side, usually carnitas and asada. Both enchiladas and rellenos tend to be a bit soggy but are considered among the best in town.

Street tacos offer a great deal with carnitas and pollo standing out for flavor. Enchiladas and huevos rancheros rank among the best, paired well with spicy margaritas and flavorful salsas served with care.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The Mexican Food here is great, and the service is always friendly."

"I thought the enchiladas were the best in town."

Good to know

1

Rose Cafe retains outdoor seating options from COVID.

2

Seating can be cramped when it's busy.

3

During lunch time, there is usually no waiting.

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