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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Santa Barbara

Mexican food

Mexican food that relies on depth of flavor rather than the heavy-handed spice or cheese masking a lack of technique.

Based on 764 Opinions
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01
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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.

Food here blends high-end Mexican flavors from Mexico City to the coast with original Oxacan dishes. The chef shows clear passion, making the dining experience exquisite and excellent.

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."

"The food here is incredible, fresh, and flavorful."

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.

02
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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.

Authentic Mexican food shines here with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The dishes often carry a spicy kick while staying true to traditional tastes.

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 Arroyo Molcajete food was the best I ever had."

"I thought the Arroyo Molcajete was the best Mexican food I ever had."

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.

03
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Outdoor patio offers a cozy, inviting atmosphere with fairy lights and heaters that soften street noise. The space fills with great energy from a mostly local crowd, creating a lively yet friendly vibe. Premium margaritas and generous portions complement the comfortable Mexican setting.

Excellent food stands out with delicious Mexican dishes and phenomenal drinks. Service complements the meal, making the overall experience consistently great.

Authentic Mexican food shines with exceptional crab tostadas and excellent shrimp tacos. The premium margaritas stand out alongside great burritos and tortas.

People are saying

"The food here is really delicious and tasty."

"I found the Mexican Food tacos to be excellent."

Good to know

1

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

2

Street parking is available, but it can be limited during busy times.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred for smaller purchases.

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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.

Food comes out fresh and flavorful, served on beautiful plates with tea in ceramic mugs showing care in presentation.

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."

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.

05
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Mexican restaurant with multiple TVs showing soccer games creates a casual vibe. Atmosphere ranges from relaxed to lively, welcoming diverse guests who enjoy authentic dishes like menudo and carnitas tacos. Salsa and garnish bar adds a customizable touch to meals.

Food here has a fresh and delicious taste with a very Mexican Hometown flare. The cooking stays consistent and shows care, with cooks checking in to ensure satisfaction.

Menudo and carnitas tacos with habanero salsa stand out here. Burritos like carne asada and arobada come with fresh guacamole and a salsa bar for extra flavor.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the burritos, is excellent."

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and cooked with love."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating.

2

Expect to pay a premium for specialty items on the menu.

3

Staff is generally bilingual, making communication easier for English speakers.

06
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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.

Mexican food here features fresh, well-prepared flavors with great quality and presentation. The patio and lighting add to the overall outstanding dining experience.

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."

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.

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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.

Food here tastes very homemade and authentic with a consistently great quality.

Breakfast burritos stand out with chorizo and sausage options. Carnitas come freshly prepared and are a favorite for take-home. Menudo offers a spicy, flavorful hangover cure. Taquitos served with guacamole make a popular special.

People are saying

"You have to try the breakfast burritos; they're surprisingly large."

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

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.

08
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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.

Food offers tasty, fresh Mexican street dishes with all the trimmings. Meals provide great value and come from a fantastic team known for delicious, authentic flavors.

Tacos al pastor stand out with fresh pineapple and crispy tripe options. Salsas are fresh and vibrant, complementing traditional and adventurous meat choices.

People are saying

"The al pastor tacos here are the best I've ever had."

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

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.

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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.

Authentic Mexican cuisine shines with large burritos and well flavored hot sauce. Food comes out quickly and offers amazing vegan options alongside affordable, delicious dishes.

Burritos stand out with Al pastor, California burrito, and breakfast burritos all highly praised. Carnitas tacos, tortas, and aguas frescas add variety, while the green salsa complements the superburritos well.

People are saying

"This Mexican food is perfection, especially the burritos."

"The Mexican food here is always delicious and authentic."

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.

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Small restaurant with an open kitchen and authentic Mexican decor creates a chill atmosphere. Outdoor seating is pleasant but limited to a few groups. Tacos and margaritas stand out as flavorful highlights.

Authentic Mexican food shines with fresh, homemade dishes cooked right in front of you. The flavors are exquisite and the presentation stands out, offering a taste reminiscent of traditional home cooking.

Authentic Mexican food shines with fresh handmade corn tortillas and tasty street tacos. Birria tacos, Taco Norteño, and Chicken Mole stand out alongside excellent margaritas.

People are saying

"You have to try the tacos; they're the best I've ever had."

"This Mexican food is so authentic, it reminds me of home."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers special pricing on tacos, making it a popular event.

2

Street parking is available near the restaurant, but can be limited.

3

Menu items may be unavailable during lunch hours, so check ahead.

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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.

Authentic Mexican cuisine shines through with consistently delicious flavors that taste like home. Food and service maintain a great standard with no bad experiences reported.

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 food here is authentic and incredibly delicious."

"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.

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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.

Authentic Mexican food is prepared fresh right in front of you, ensuring great flavor and large portions. Meals come quickly in a clean setting with affordable prices and consistently tasty results.

Mexican food here is authentic and affordable with large, flavorful burritos and tacos. The salsa bar offers a variety of options including mild green salsa, hot red salsa, and pico de gallo with a strong cilantro taste.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and very good."

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

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.

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Brewery with live music, board games, and multiple big screen TVs creates a chill, social atmosphere. Regulars enjoy locally brewed beers and casual food options like tacos and nachos. Outdoor seating offers a great street view and pet-friendly space.

Mexican food stands out with burritos and quesadillas that taste excellent and high-quality. The spot pairs well with beer, creating a tasty and satisfying food experience.

Mushroom tacos stand out with their vegetarian options and solid flavor. Burritos and quesadillas also feature as good Mexican food choices alongside beers at the taqueria.

People are saying

"I loved the Mexican food, especially the tortas and tacos."

"I thought their Mexican food and beers were very good."

Good to know

1

Craft pints are available for $5 on selected beers.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

The venue is dog friendly, allowing pets in outdoor areas.

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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.

Food comes out fast, usually within five minutes, and is made fresh to order. Tacos feature simple ingredients like meat, onion, and cilantro, giving a homemade Mexican feel with authentic flavors.

Breakfast burritos stand out with a perfect mix of eggs, cheese, potatoes, and chorizo, cooked fresh to order. Al Pastor and carne asada tacos offer tender, flavorful options, while the salsa verde adds a delicious kick to any dish.

People are saying

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

"I found the food here to be amazing and authentic."

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.

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Outdoor patio and backyard seating create a cozy, charming atmosphere with a chill vibe. Handmade tortillas and a salsa bar highlight authentic Mexican flavors. The menu offers generous portions with a wide variety including meat, seafood, and greens.

Authentic Mexican food offers outstanding taste with good portions at reasonable prices. Presentation is well done and the overall quality includes excellent drinks and desserts.

Authentic Mexican food shines with handmade tortillas and a flavorful salsa bar. The fish tacos and birria stand out, with fresh ingredients and traditional preparation.

People are saying

"The food here is excellent, especially the tacos and salsa bar."

"The tacos and salsa bar here are incredible."

Good to know

1

Tortas cost $7 on Thursdays.

2

Daily specials include oysters on weekends.

3

Happy hour offers exceptional values on select items.

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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.

Mexican dishes here have excellent flavor and show clear care in preparation. The food feels authentic and every detail seems intentional.

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

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

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

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.

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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.

Food features generous portions and fresh ingredients with a focus on crunchy tacos. Meals come fast but include table service with utensils and napkins.

Torta stands out as a top choice, paired with a wet mole burrito that offers rich flavor. The shrimp taco delivers bold taste, complemented by a salsa bar featuring multiple Roja and verde options.

People are saying

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

"I found the Rudy's Beef Taco to be extremely delicious."

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.

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Mexican restaurant with cozy, warm atmosphere and tile tables creates a family-friendly, quiet vibe. The space feels like a diamond in the rough with beautiful decor and a chill energy. It attracts those seeking a relaxed dining experience with solid Mexican dishes.

Mexican food here is very delicious with plentiful portions. The dishes come out quickly and consistently have excellent taste.

Pork pozole stands out as a top dish, even better than homemade versions. Menudo and enchiladas deliver strong, authentic flavors, while burritos and a chorizo breakfast burrito add variety to the Mexican food offerings.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and the portions plentiful."

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

Good to know

1

Parking is available right outside the door.

2

Prices range from $10 to $25 depending on the order.

3

The portions are large and satisfying.

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Small, clean Mexican restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and loud street traffic outside. Many locals dine here, enjoying fresh salsa and flavorful dishes like huevos rancheros and shrimp broth. Portions tend to be small, and prices are on the higher side.

Food here is authentic Mexican with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Plates come hot and full of flavor, complemented by an excellent salsa bar and consistently tasty dishes.

Grilled chicken burritos and carne asada burritos offer bold flavors and a satisfying taste. The menudo and huevos rancheros stand out as authentic Mexican dishes, complemented by a salsa bar with salsas that have a good kick.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, hot, and full of flavor."

"I found the Mexican food here to be the best in Santa Barbara."

Good to know

1

Prices may differ from those listed on the website.

2

Expect small portions relative to the high prices.

3

The restaurant does not offer its own delivery service.

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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.

Inexpensive comfort food shines with authentic Mexican dishes and fresh salsa at the table. The food stays consistently delicious and the service matches the quality.

Breakfast burritos stand out with their authentic Mexican flavors and come with chips and salsa that are among the best in town. The flan offers a creamy, delicious finish to the meal.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful and tasty."

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

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.

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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.

Food offers authentic, flavorful dishes with delicious ceviche and tacos. Portions are generous and consistently good, making the dining experience memorable.

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

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

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.

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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.

Food features amazing carnitas burritos and best menudo with fresh ingredients and generous portions. Quick service delivers satisfying, comforting meals with a good selection of dishes and salsas.

Menudo stands out with options like Pata on weekends and arrives just right. Burritos and tacos come packed with meat and fresh pico de gallo, while the salsa bar features jalapeños, limes, and radishes rarely found elsewhere.

People are saying

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

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

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.

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Mexican restaurant offers lively atmosphere with authentic street tacos and a salsa bar. The space fills quickly at lunchtime, creating a bustling vibe. Menu includes Mixteco favorites and hearty portions with a variety of meat options.

Generous portions and authentic flavors define the Mexican food here. The dishes offer excellent taste at reasonable prices in a lively setting.

Authentic street tacos come with at least six meat options including choriqueso, adobada, and carnitas. Burritos like carne asada pack fresh ingredients such as rice, cheese, cilantro, and onions, with salsas that stand out. The fish quesadilla tastes very fresh, and the horchata is respectable.

People are saying

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

"I thought the Mexican food here was simply marvelous."

Good to know

1

A burrito now costs $16.

2

Lunchtimes are packed, making seating challenging.

3

The menu offers a variety of options, including vegetarian choices.

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Small Mexican food market with a kitchen offers authentic Mexican food and huge portions at affordable prices. A great meat counter in the back supports fresh ingredients and a variety of salsas and chilies. The atmosphere feels unchanged over decades, reflecting a hidden gem vibe.

Food here aims for authentic Mexican flavors but often comes off as bland. The salsa does not add much to the dishes, which can feel underwhelming despite the good intentions.

Tacos come authentic and fresh, with a variety of salsas and sauces to choose from. The carne asada burrito is large and filling, and carnitas stand out as a well-known specialty.

People are saying

"I found the food to be amazing."

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

Good to know

1

The prices are reasonable and affordable for most dishes.

2

Portions served are huge, making it great for sharing.

3

There are many types of salsas and sauces to choose from.

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Mexican restaurant offers authentic Mexican food with amazing breakfast and great burritos. Atmosphere includes free Wi-Fi for guests. Prices tend to be on the higher side compared to other local options.

Authentic Mexican food stands out here with attentive staff serving consistently great dishes.

Authentic Mexican food shines with green enchiladas and incredible carne asada. Burritos stand out as great and flavorful.

People are saying

"I recommended coming here for authentic Mexican food."

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

Good to know

1

Wi-Fi is free for guests at Milpas Taqueria.

2

Expect higher prices compared to other local Mexican restaurants.

3

Takeout options are available for those in a hurry.

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