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Tacos in Santa Barbara

Made for those who treat finding the right taco as a serious, daily pursuit.

Based on 702 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Happy Cat Eats image 1
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American restaurant

Outdoor seating with stunning beach views and sun umbrellas sets a casual vibe. Tacos shine with bold flavors like gochujang and sliced jalapenos. Games like corn hole add fun, while loud music keeps energy high near the pier.

Tacos feature cabbage, sauce, and sliced jalapenos that stand out. Options like Gokuchan Bao Tacos and gochujang tacos offer bold, unique flavors. Fish and carnitas tacos come highly recommended and deliver excellent taste.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the carnitas tacos here to be extremely delicious."

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.

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.

People are saying

"These tacos are seriously delicious and flavorful."

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

"I found the chicken enchiladas with green sauce to be really good and unique."

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
Sazón Latino & Catering image 1
Family restaurant

Large patio and indoor seating offer a cozy vibe with friendly service. Tacos feature homemade tortillas and fillings like adobada and carnitas, with a salsa bar for custom flavors. Outdoor DJ and salsa bar create a lively atmosphere for a diverse crowd.

Tacos come with homemade tortillas and fillings like adobada, cabeza, asada, and carnitas. Weekend-only quesobirria tacos feature a rich jus, and a salsa bar lets you customize flavors.

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."

"The quesabirria tacos were rich with a wonderful jus."

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.

04
Mulligan's Cafe & Bar image 1

Bar and grill offers a no frills atmosphere with patio seating overlooking a golf course. Fish tacos with mango chutney and hard shell carnitas tacos shine, especially on Monday taco night. Outdoor tables with blankets keep guests cozy.

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

People are saying

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

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

"I found the food at these dinner spots to be delicious."

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.

05
Tacos Pipeye image 1
Taco restaurant

Small taco spot shines with handmade tortillas and a great salsa bar. Tacos like Al pastor and barbacoa offer bold flavors at fair prices. Casual vibe draws a mostly Latino crowd enjoying cold beer and relaxed seating.

Tacos come with homemade corn tortillas and fresh salsa. Options like Al pastor, barbacoa, and chorizo with papas stand out for their flavor. Prices stay reasonable, with specials like three tacos for $11.

People are saying

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

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

"These tacos are just incredible, especially the barbacoa."

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.

06
Alma Fonda Fina image 1
Restaurant

Bright, intimate space buzzes with loud energy and patio dining. Unique Waygu brisket tacos and carrot tacos showcase high-quality Mexican flavors. Welcomes diners and dogs, blending lively atmosphere with thoughtful ingredients.

Carrot tacos and suadero tacos stand out with excellent flavor. Waygu brisket and duck tacos offer unique options beyond typical choices like quesabirria or al pastor.

People are saying

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

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

"I thought the tacos here were the best I ever had."

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.

07
Little Alex's image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, clean space with heated dog-friendly patio offers fresh, local Mexican food. Fish tacos shine during happy hour, alongside tasty hard shell beef and chicken tacos. Large TVs and a small bar create a lively vibe that can get loud.

Fish tacos stand out as a favorite, especially during happy hour. Both hard shell beef and chicken tacos offer solid, tasty options. The rajas taco delivers a distinct flavor that evokes a Cabo vibe.

People are saying

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

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

"I loved the fish tacos, they were the best dish."

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.

08
El Sitio Restaurant - Salinas image 1

Outdoor seating creates a casual vibe with authentic Mexican roots. Tacos offer huge portions and standout flavors like al pastor and lengua. Large burritos and a salsa bar add to the generous portions and bold taste.

Tacos come in huge portions with generous amounts of meat. Options like lengua and al pastor stand out for flavor, though some meats lack taste. Pricing runs around $4.00 each.

People are saying

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

"The outdoor space here is really cool."

"I tried some of the best tasting tacos I've had in a long time."

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.

09
El Pastorcito Food Truck image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican street food shines with al pastor tacos featuring fresh pineapple and a salsa station with multiple salsas. Outdoor seating with heaters offers comfort by the ocean breeze. Popular for catering, the spot is clean and convenient, with a buy 2 get 1 free taco deal on Tuesdays.

Al pastor tacos stand out with fresh pineapple and bold flavor. Crispy tripe tacos add a unique twist, and a buy 2 get 1 free deal on Tuesdays makes them even better.

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."

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

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.

10
Rudy's Restaurant Upper State image 1

Counter-order setup and basic dining create a casual vibe. Shrimp tacos with flavorful shrimp come with soft rice and beans. Large portions and variety of salsas highlight the food, with wet mole burritos and homemade soft corn tortillas standing out.

Shrimp tacos come with soft rice and beans and have incredibly flavorful shrimp. Beef and chicken tacos, especially the crunchy and crispy varieties, are large and filling, often enough for one person.

People are saying

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

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

"I believed the Rudy's Beef Taco was the only taco I needed."

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.

11
Taqueria La Unica image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with a lively atmosphere and fresh salsa bar. Tacos boast tender meats and unique flavors, especially the vampiro and fish options. Cozy outdoor seating with a fireplace adds warmth to the vibrant dining experience.

Tacos feature tender, flavorful meats and perfectly grilled onions with unique flavors that stand out. The vampiro taco and all fish tacos offer distinct tastes, paired well with fresh craft beer for a solid meal value.

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 thought the tacos here were absolutely 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.

12
Augie's of Santa Barbara image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open air patio with a palm tree roof sets a lively yet classy mood. Tacos shine with fresh fish and bold rib eye steak. Exceptional tequila selection fuels an upscale fun vibe with local energy.

Tacos come with a variety of fillings like rib eye steak, octopus, and baja shrimp. The fish tacos stay fresh and the queso fundido with chorizo adds a flavorful touch.

People are saying

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

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

"The fish tacos here are so fresh and flavorful."

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.

13
El Sitio Restaurant - De La Vina image 1

Lively Mexican spot shines with authentic street tacos featuring meats like choriqueso and carnitas. Bustling lunchtime vibe complements hearty Mixteco dishes. Salsa bar adds a fresh, spicy kick to every meal.

Street tacos come with at least a half-dozen different meat options including choriqueso, adobada, and carnitas. Tacos taste authentic and often arrive loaded with Lengua.

People are saying

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

"I found the carne asada burrito here to be my favorite."

"You have to try their choriqueso, adobada, and carnitas tacos."

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.

14
Casa Comal Cocina Tradicional Mexicana image 1

Small spot with authentic Mexican decor and an open kitchen offers a chill vibe. Birria tacos and Baja fish taco deliver rich, fresh flavors. Outdoor seating is limited but pleasant, perfect for enjoying flavorful margaritas.

Birria tacos and Baja fish taco stand out with rich flavors. Soft carnitas tacos and campechana tacos offer excellent variety and freshness.

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 their handmade tortillas; they're out of this world."

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.

15
Taquería Rincón Alteño image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot serves large portions of fresh burritos and crispy tacos with authentic Al Pastor flavor. Quick service and cash only payment keep things simple. Salsas add notable heat for a true taste experience.

Crispy tacos stand out with their hard shell and quick service. Al Pastor and tacos dorados offer authentic flavors that many find delicious and satisfying.

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.

16
M Special Brewing Company - Downtown image 1

Brewery offers a chill atmosphere with live music and big screen TVs. Mushroom tacos provide a unique flavor and vegetarian choice. Outdoor seating is pet-friendly, perfect for socializing with friends.

Mushroom tacos stand out with their unique flavor and vegetarian-friendly options. Tacos come alongside tortas and birria grilled cheese for variety.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the unique and good beer selection here."

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

"I found the mushroom taco tasty and delicious."

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.

17
Los Arroyos Downtown Mexican Restaurant image 1

Unassuming Mexican spot offers large tacos with fillings like carne asada and shrimp. Enjoy a lively salsa bar with wide sauce variety. Outdoor seating includes a dog-friendly parklet, making it great for casual dining and pet lovers.

Tacos come in large portions with a variety of fillings like carne asada, tender steak, crispy chicken, and shrimp. Flavors range from smoky and well-seasoned to savory and topped with fresh onions and cilantro.

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.

18
La Cantina Bar & Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot buzzes with heated patios and multiple TVs for sports fans. Pescado Tacos shine with cilantro lime Tajin aioli, while Asada offers bold flavor and Aguacate suits vegetarians. Casual vibe suits families and locals alike.

Pescado Tacos come wrapped in warm, pillowy corn tortillas with a zesty cilantro lime Tajin aioli. Asada tacos stand out for their flavor, and Aguacate tacos serve as a solid vegetarian option.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are beautiful and taste amazing."

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

"The chicken tacos here are delicious and packed with chicken."

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.

19
Yona Redz image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy spot with live music and a casual vibe fits late-night dining. Birria tacos shine with juicy shredded beef and rich broth. Outdoor patio with heat lamps keeps it comfy while enjoying bold, affordable flavors.

Birria tacos stand out with juicy shredded beef and rich broth. Queso tacos and street-style options offer bold, delicious flavors at affordable prices.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the birria ramen; it's worth the trip."

"The birria tacos here are outstanding and top-notch."

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.

20
La Playa Azul Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor patio shines with fairy lights and heaters, creating a cozy vibe. Shrimp and fish tacos impress with fresh cabbage and grilled fish, paired with complimentary chips and salsa. Premium margaritas add to the lively, local crowd energy in a comfortable Mexican setting.

Shrimp and fish tacos stand out with fresh cabbage and perfectly grilled fish. Tacos come with complimentary chips and salsa, though tortillas are not made in house.

People are saying

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

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

"The fish tacos are delicious and grilled perfectly."

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.

21
Taqueria Cuernavaca image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot shines with authentic dishes and a quiet dining area. Tacos boast amazing tortillas and flavorful fillings like chorizo and vegetarian options. Self-serve salsa bar adds fresh toppings, perfect for takeout or dining in.

Tacos feature amazing tortillas that perfectly complement fillings like chorizo, suadero, and asado. Options include vegetarian tacos with generous servings and flavorful, simple preparations.

People are saying

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

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

"The tacos here have amazing tortillas and great fillings."

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.

22
Rose Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy Mexican spot offers street tacos like carnitas with flavorful salsas. Outdoor seating under air-plants creates a relaxed vibe. Dog-friendly space feels like a sunny Cantina and Grotto.

Street tacos come in a great deal with options like carnitas and pollo. Salsas served alongside are incredibly flavorful and enhance the tacos.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

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

"The street tacos are a great deal."

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.

23
Taqueria El Bajio image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot shines with handmade tortillas and a casual atmosphere. Tacos, especially tacos dorados carnitas, come with fresh pico de gallo and jalapeño salsa. Weekend birria de chivo adds rich flavor without deep frying or processed ingredients.

Tacos come with pico de gallo, carrots, and salsa fresca with jalapeños. The tacos dorados carnitas stand out as next level. Tortillas are good and tacos offer a good size for the price.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

"I thought the tacos here were some of the best I've ever had."

"I thought the Mexican food, especially the tortas, was the best I'd ever had."

Good to know

1

Expect smaller portion sizes compared to previous years.

2

Prices have increased significantly over the past few years.

3

The menu offers a variety of options.

24
Taqueria Santa Barbara image 1
Taco restaurant

Affordable tacos feature fresh meat and vegetarian choices like rajas and nopales. Casual dining with sticky tables creates a laid-back vibe. Pineapple salsa adds a flavorful touch that brightens every bite.

Tacos come with fresh ingredients and generous piles of meat. Options include papas y rajas, suadero, and fish, with affordable prices around $2.50 to $3.50 each.

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 thought the tacos were delicious and good-sized."

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
Baja Sharkeez image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating with heat lamps and multiple TVs sets a lively sports bar vibe. Huge, flavorful tacos like Birria and Carne asada shine, especially on Taco Tuesday with $5 deals. Colorful decor and a live DJ keep the fun going for casual dining and game watching.

Tacos come in huge portions with options like fish, shrimp, Carne asada steak, and Birria. Taco Tuesday offers tacos for $5, and the Birria tacos pair well with drinks like margaritas.

People are saying

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

"I loved the happy hour deals and double margaritas."

"The birria tacos here are amazing."

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.

26
Palapa Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot offers authentic casual vibe with lively patio seating. Tacos are crispy and huge, featuring a standout crunchy fish option. Family friendly atmosphere blends locals and visitors for a warm, inviting meal.

Tacos come crispy and huge, with a crunchy fish option that stands out. Some tacos are hard and lack flavor, but many are tasty and satisfying.

People are saying

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

"The food here is delicious, especially the carnitas and fish."

"The tacos here are huge and super tasty."

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.

27
Moby Dick Restaurant image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seaside spot boasts gorgeous marina views and a laid-back vibe perfect for families and dates. Fish tacos are a must-try, served steaming hot with great flavor. Outdoor seating is shaded and comfy, ideal for casual meals.

Fish tacos come steaming hot off the grill with a delicious flavor. Waitstaff often recommend them as a standout option among the taco choices.

People are saying

"The sunset view from the restaurant was amazing."

"The seafood here is so fresh, especially the oysters."

"The fish tacos are delicious and steaming hot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available from 3 pm to 5 pm with affordable appetizers.

2

The restaurant offers 90 minutes of free parking for diners.

3

Outdoor seating is not accessible during lunch hours.

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