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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Santa Barbara's best

Mexican food spots

A plate of Mexican food is the only thing that hits the spot when the craving strikes.

Based on 874 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 spot with authentic Tijuana tacos and solid vegan choices. Loud, hype music fuels an energetic vibe in a tight, warm space. Known for notable margaritas, it blends modern design with a focused, no-frills experience.

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
Luna's Cafe image 1
American restaurant

Cozy cafe offers authentic chilaquiles with fresh salsa and hearty huevos rancheros. Friendly vibe and ample parking make it easy to enjoy classic breakfast dishes. Large, flavorful breakfast burritos add to the satisfying Mexican food experience.

Chilaquiles stand out with authentic flavors and fresh salsa that balances spice well. Huevos rancheros come with chile verde, black beans, and seasoned hashbrowns, making for a hearty, delicious meal. The breakfast burrito is notably large and flavorful.

People are saying

"The chilaquiles here are spot on, truly delicious Mexican food."

"I had delicious Huevos Rancheros with chile verde."

"The service at this lunch spot was great and the staff were friendly."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of seating available at the cafe.

2

Street parking is easy to find nearby.

3

The cafe offers a menu with a Mexican flair for breakfast.

03
Tacos Pipeye image 1
Taco restaurant

Small taco spot shines with handmade tortillas and a great salsa bar. Authentic Mexican dishes like mole poblano and chilaquiles offer bold flavors and great value. Casual vibe with limited seating and a mostly Latino crowd enjoying cold beer.

Tacos come with homemade corn tortillas and fresh salsa, offering super flavorful bites like Pastor, barbacoa, and chorizo with papas. Dishes like mole poblano and chilaquiles show authentic Mexican cuisine with great value specials like the 3 taco lunch deal.

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.

04
Happy Cat Eats image 1
American restaurant

Outdoor seating offers stunning beach views and a casual vibe with games like corn hole. Carnitas tacos deliver rich flavors and fresh pico de gallo complements well-priced options. Loud music adds energy near the pier, making it a lively spot for food and fun.

Carnitas tacos and breakfast burritos stand out with rich flavors and satisfying portions. Fresh pico de gallo and well-priced tacos add to the solid Mexican food offerings.

People are saying

"I loved the outdoor seating right across from the beach."

"You have to try the breakfast burrito with mac and cheese."

"You won't believe the mac and cheese in this Mexican Food breakfast burrito."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and there is usually no wait.

2

The restaurant has outdoor seating and a kid’s menu.

3

Parking is limited, but a parking deck is two blocks away.

05
101 Deli image 1
Restaurant

Family-owned deli shines with breakfast burritos full of flavor and size. Affordable prices and a clean, hole-in-the-wall vibe make it perfect for quick stops. Fresh, vibrant ingredients bring life to sandwiches and sushi, blending Mexican and other tastes.

Breakfast burritos stand out with great flavor and solid portions. The menu also includes burritos alongside sandwiches, soup, and sushi, offering a mix of Mexican and other options.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the fish in the rolls, is so vibrant."

"The people at this Lunch Spot are so friendly and welcoming."

"I considered this Mexican food to be great."

Good to know

1

They offer breakfast burritos, sandwiches, soup, sushi, snacks, and beverages.

2

The food is affordable with good prices.

3

The family-owned establishment is very clean.

06
Presidio Market Liquor & Grill image 1

Liquor store offers a wide selection of unique liquors and beers. Breakfast burritos with chorizo and egg are hot and flavorful. Friendly, clean atmosphere stays open late, perfect for grabbing groceries and homemade food.

Breakfast burritos stand out with chorizo and egg fillings that come hot and flavorful. Salsas complement the dishes well, adding a nice kick.

People are saying

"I thought the food was good."

"The breakfast burritos and salsas here are excellent."

"I found the breakfast burritos and salsas to be excellent."

Good to know

1

The back menu features homemade food prepared by one person.

2

Presidio Market offers groceries, liquor, hot food, and ice cream.

3

It's recommended to pay with cash to avoid extra fees.

07
Alma Fonda Fina image 1
Restaurant

Bright, intimate space offers patio dining and lively energy. High-end Mexican dishes like Waygu brisket tacos and house chicken enchiladas showcase thoughtful ingredients. Welcomes diners and dogs with a fun, vibrant atmosphere.

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 otherworldly, just like abuela's."

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.

08
Little Alex's image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, clean space with heated dog-friendly patio offers fresh, local Mexican food like fish tacos and breakfast burritos with meaty beef. Indoor bar with large TVs creates a lively, casual vibe perfect for sports fans and food lovers alike.

Breakfast burritos stand out with fresh tortillas and a meaty beef filling. Fish and hard shell tacos offer authentic flavors, complemented by fresh salsas like the Baja blend and pico de gallo.

People are saying

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

"The patio is quiet and relaxing, perfect for lunch."

"I thought the fish tacos were the best dish here."

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.

09
Mulligan's Cafe & Bar image 1

Bar and grill offers a patio seating with blankets overlooking a golf course, creating a homey vibe. Fish tacos with mango chutney and hard shell carnitas shine on taco night Mondays. Locals and golfers relax here with food and drinks.

Fish tacos come with mango chutney. Hard shell carnitas tacos stand out. Taco night happens on Mondays with multiple taco options.

People are saying

"The Taco here feels like family, with such caring service."

"The outdoor seating has a great view of the golf course."

"The Mexican food here is served with such family-style affection."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is served all day at Mulligan's Cafe & Bar.

2

They offer a special dinner for two for $45, including main course, side, salad, and pie.

3

Thursday features an all-you-can-eat ribs special.

10
Rincon Brewery image 1

Large open space offers spacious patios and board games for fun. Bold Blackened Shrimp Tacos shine in the Mexican menu. Laid-back vibe stays cool despite foot traffic, making it a great spot for chill dining and play.

Blackened Shrimp Tacos stand out with their bold flavor. Breakfast burritos come flavorful and moist even without cheese, and pulled pork adds a rich option.

People are saying

"They have a large selection of tasty beers."

"The patio is a great outdoor space on a warm day."

"I hope they change their Mexican food fry recipe."

Good to know

1

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

2

Limited parking is available near the brewery; consider street parking.

3

Rincon Brewery offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

11
The Brewhouse image 1
American restaurant

Industrial decor creates a casual vibe with outdoor patios and live local music. Mexican dishes shine with enchiladas and fish tacos. Dog friendly with a special menu for pets, it welcomes families and locals with friendly energy.

Enchiladas stand out with rich flavors. The barbecue chicken quesadilla and fish tacos also deliver solid Mexican food options.

People are saying

"The beer here is great and flavorful."

"The outdoor space here is really nice, especially the patio."

"I loved the great range of beers brewed on-site."

Good to know

1

The Brewhouse is dog-friendly and offers a special menu for pets.

2

Free parking is available in the rear of The Brewhouse.

3

Happy hour includes a cheeseburger and a beer for $14.

12
La Playa Azul Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor patio with fairy lights creates a cozy vibe. Authentic Mexican dishes like crab tostadas and shrimp tacos impress. Premium margaritas and generous portions keep locals coming back.

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

"I found the happy hour food to be well worth the money."

"The outdoor seating is beautiful, comfortable, and fun."

"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.

13
Los Arroyos Downtown Mexican Restaurant image 1

Unassuming spot serves authentic Mexican food with standout carne asada tacos and a lively salsa bar full of fresh sauces. Open dining shifts from quiet to loud, matching the crowd's energy. Outdoor seating includes a dog-friendly parklet for pet owners.

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 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.

14
El Zarape Mexican Restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant buzzes with multiple TVs showing soccer games, creating a lively vibe. Menudo and carnitas tacos shine alongside burritos with fresh guacamole. Salsa and garnish bar lets guests customize flavors for a casual, authentic experience.

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."

"I thought the chorizo and chicken burritos were excellent."

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.

15
El Pastorcito Food Truck image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican street food shines with al pastor tacos and a vibrant salsa station. Outdoor seating offers heaters to enjoy the ocean breeze comfortably. Clean and convenient, it suits both casual visits and large event catering.

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 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."

"The salsa here is fresh, vibrant, and unforgettable."

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.

16
Dusk Bar image 1

Small, modern bar offers an intimate, moody vibe with live music on Tuesdays for a relaxed night. Fresh seafood shines with tuna tostada and ceviche options. Expertly mixed cocktails, especially margaritas, pair perfectly with chips and guacamole starters.

Tuna tostada stands out as a memorable dish, alongside the ceviche tostada and blue fin tostada. Chips and guacamole offer a solid starter, and margaritas complement the meal well.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are masters and make great drinks."

"I love the wide variety of artisanal tequilas and mezcals they offer."

"The staff here are so warm and knowledgeable about the Mexican food."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers BOGO oysters, providing good value on select days.

2

Live music occurs every Tuesday evening at Dusk Bar.

3

Expect a 5-minute wait during peak hours on Fridays around 6pm.

17
Super Cucas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Vintage carniceria style and heated outdoor seating create an authentic vibe. Burritos like Al pastor and California burrito shine alongside carnitas tacos and aguas frescas. A dedicated vegan menu ensures everyone finds something great here.

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

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

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

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

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.

18
Sazón Latino & Catering image 1
Family restaurant

Large patio with picnic tables and a DJ creates a lively, cozy vibe. Mexican dishes shine with quesobirria tacos and a standout salsa Verde. Friendly service and a salsa bar make it a true neighborhood gem.

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.

19
Rudy's Restaurant Upper State image 1

Counter-order setup and basic dining create a casual vibe. Large portions and wet mole burritos highlight the menu, with torta and shrimp taco offering bold flavors. A salsa bar with Roja and verde options adds zest, all at prices below local spots.

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 loved their salsa bar with so many options."

"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.

20
Lito's Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy spot with a family-run vibe and authentic Mexican dishes like spicy menudo and fresh carnitas. Breakfast burritos with chorizo shine here. Limited seating adds to the charm, while a big screen TV keeps the atmosphere lively.

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

"The breakfast burritos here are huge and delicious."

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

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

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.

21
Rosales Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot serves authentic huevos rancheros and bold grilled burritos. Cozy vibe inside contrasts with loud street traffic outside. Locals love fresh salsa and flavorful shrimp broth despite small portions and higher prices.

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

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

"The food at this lunch spot is delicious and freshly made."

"I found the food to be simple and authentic."

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.

22
Taquería Rincón Alteño image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant serves large portions of fresh burritos and tacos with notable heat from salsas. Breakfast burritos mix eggs, cheese, potatoes, and chorizo perfectly. Indoor seating is ample, and food arrives quickly with cash only payment.

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 crispy tacos here to be excellent."

"This burrito is the best I ever had."

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.

23
Taqueria La Unica image 1
Mexican restaurant

Lively Mexican spot shines with fresh salsa bar and tender tacos featuring grilled onions. Cozy outdoor seating with fireplace and heat lamps adds warmth. Bright colors and traditional music create a festive atmosphere perfect for vibrant dining.

Tacos feature tender, flavorful meats and perfectly grilled onions with a unique taste. Fresh tortillas and a salsa bar complement dishes like the Tacos Unica and torta pastor, with options accommodating corn allergies.

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."

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

24
Azul Cocina Artesanal & Cantina image 1

Outdoor courtyard with romantic lighting sets a calm mood. Mole and salmon tacos deliver bold Mexican flavors. Margaritas and cocktail flights shine at the large bar, perfect for pairing with grilled octopus.

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 outdoor seating is so romantic with its fireplace and lights."

"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.

25
Taqueria Cuernavaca image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot offers authentic tacos with fillings like carnitas and al pastor. Spacious dining and a self-serve salsa bar add to the experience. Vegetarian options and fresh toppings make it great for all tastes.

Tacos feature generous servings with fillings like carnitas, al pastor, chorizo, suadero, and asado, all paired with amazing tortillas. Vegetarian tacos and a variety of amazing salsas, including tomatillo, complement dishes like gorditas, burritos, enchiladas verdes, and tortas.

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.

26
Casa Comal Cocina Tradicional Mexicana image 1

Small spot with authentic Mexican decor and an open kitchen sets a chill vibe. Fresh handmade tortillas make tacos like Birria and Mole stand out. Outdoor seating is limited but pleasant, perfect for enjoying flavorful margaritas.

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

"The octopus taco is the best I've ever had."

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

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

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.

27
Farmer Boy image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Classic 50s diner style with booths and outdoor seating offers a cozy, lively vibe. Carnitas chilaquiles and breakfast burritos with homemade green sauce shine in the Mexican menu. Family-friendly features include dog-friendly indoor space and charging outlets at each table.

Carnitas chilaquiles stand out as a popular dish with a delicious flavor. Breakfast burritos come with an amazing homemade green sauce and are considered among the best, while the pozole includes vegetarian options.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious with large portions."

"The breakfast service here is so friendly and fast."

"You have to try the carnitas chilaquiles; they're delicious."

Good to know

1

Farmer Boy serves breakfast all day until closing at 2pm.

2

Parking is free and readily available near the diner.

3

Lunch prices are very affordable, making it a great value.

28
Santa Barbara Chicken Ranch image 1
Chicken restaurant

Casual spot serves flavorful chicken and tri-tip with huge portions. Mexican dishes shine with large chicken burritos and simple plates including beans, rice, and salsa. Free parking and a fun salsa bar keep locals coming back.

Chicken burritos stand out with large size and rich flavor, sometimes falling apart but still tasty. Plates come with beans, rice, salsa, and tortillas, and the menu stays simple with options like tri-tip, chicken, and bowls.

People are saying

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

"The chicken and tri-tip food here is so flavorful and juicy."

"I definitely recommend their Guacamole; it was very good."

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.

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