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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 887 Opinions
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01
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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."

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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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

"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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Cozy Mexican spot shines with street tacos and spicy margaritas. Outdoor seating under air-plants adds charm. Dog-friendly vibe makes it a lively yet comfortable hangout for all.

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 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.

04
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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 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.

05
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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

"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.

06
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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

"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.

07
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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

"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.

08
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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 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.

09
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Mexican sweet bread arrives fresh and warm daily, featuring conchas and tamales in various styles. Cash-only policy keeps things simple, though no hot drinks are served. The bakery buzzes with the scent of freshly baked goods and steady activity all day.

Tamales come in different varieties and pair well with champurrado. The selection of sweet bread includes conchas and other traditional options.

Good to know

1

They only accept cash; no card payments available.

2

They were open all day for visitors.

3

Expect limited food options like chocolate and churros in the morning.

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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."

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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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."

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.

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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

"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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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

"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.

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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

"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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Brewery offers locally brewed beers and a chill vibe with live music and board games. Mexican food shines with mushroom tacos and tasty burritos. Outdoor seating is pet-friendly and perfect for street views.

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 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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Outdoor patio and backyard seating create a cozy atmosphere with a chill vibe. Handmade tortillas and a flavorful salsa bar highlight authentic Mexican flavors. Fish tacos and birria offer fresh ingredients and traditional preparation.

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 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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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."

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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Open air patio with a palm tree roof sets a lively scene. Enjoy authentic chicken poblano mole enchiladas and amazing margaritas. The exceptional tequila selection and upbeat Mexican music create a fun yet classy vibe.

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."

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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Outdoor seating creates a casual vibe with authentic Mexican roots. Large, flavorful burritos and tacos satisfy hunger with generous portions. A salsa bar offers varied flavors like mild green and hot red salsas, adding zest to every bite.

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 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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Mexican restaurant offers asada tacos and rich mole enchiladas in a lively, sports-friendly atmosphere with multiple TVs. Indoor and heated outdoor seating create a fresh, casual vibe perfect for families and fans. Beautiful decor adds to the welcoming, local cantina feel.

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."

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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Cozy Mexican spot offers pork pozole that beats homemade versions and authentic menudo and enchiladas. Warm, tile-topped tables create a family-friendly vibe with a quiet, relaxed energy. Perfect for those craving solid Mexican dishes in a chill atmosphere.

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 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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Rustic Mexican spot serves house-made tortillas and standout menudo with Pata on weekends. Generous portions of burritos and tacos come with fresh pico de gallo. Atmosphere feels basic and somewhat outdated, but bilingual staff keep service smooth and prices reasonable.

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 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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Enjoy authentic Mexican flavors with standout breakfast burritos and creamy flan. The casual atmosphere feels like dining in Cancún, perfect for families and locals alike. Outdoor seating on a lively patio adds a friendly vibe to every visit.

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

"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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Affordable tacos shine with vegetarian options like rajas and nopales, plus fresh meats like suadero. Casual vibe features sticky tables and lively pineapple salsa. Rich dishes like Torta Cubana and mole burrito balance spice and chocolate, paired with fresh horchata de fresa drinks.

Tacos come with a super selection including papas y rajas, suadero, and fish, all priced affordably around $2.50 to $3.50. The Torta Cubana and wet carnitas burrito with mole offer rich flavors, with mole balancing chocolate and spice perfectly. Fresh aguas frescas like horchata de fresa and Jamaica complement the tasty salsa and veggie options served as tacos, burritos, or quesadillas.

People are saying

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

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.

25
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Outdoor seating with heat lamps and multiple TVs creates a lively sports bar vibe. Huge, flavorful tacos like Carne asada steak and Birria pair well with double margaritas during happy hour. Colorful decor and a live DJ keep the fun atmosphere going.

Tacos come in huge portions with options like fish, shrimp, Carne asada steak, and Birria. A salsa bar adds variety, and drinks include double margaritas during happy hour.

People are saying

"The Mexican food, especially the tacos and enchiladas, was huge and spicy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4pm to 8pm with great drink deals.

2

Taco Tuesday offers tacos for $5 each.

3

Karaoke night is every Wednesday starting at 10pm.

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Space feels quiet and clean with friendly staff creating a calm vibe. Tacos lack bold flavor but portions are large and kid-friendly. Location is convenient and spacious, perfect for families.

Tacos come with bland flavor and portion sizes vary. Breakfast options exist. The spot is kid-friendly and staff are friendly.

People are saying

"I thought this Mexican food was the best I had experienced."

Good to know

1

The Taco Bell is conveniently located for easy access.

2

The restaurant maintains a high level of cleanliness.

3

Taco Bell offers large portion sizes suitable for families.

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Enjoy authentic Mexican food with standout green enchiladas and carne asada. Great burritos and amazing breakfast add variety. Free Wi-Fi enhances the experience despite higher prices.

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."

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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Lively spot serves authentic street tacos with six meat options like choriqueso and carnitas. Burritos burst with fresh ingredients and bold salsas. Enjoy a bustling vibe at lunchtime and a salsa bar that complements hearty portions.

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."

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 market offers authentic tacos and a huge carne asada burrito. Fresh ingredients come from a great meat counter with many salsas. Atmosphere feels like a hidden gem unchanged for decades.

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 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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