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Local picks in Santa Monica

Fish tacos

Made for those who track down the freshest fish tacos as a non-negotiable part of their coastal routine.

Based on 518 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Mariscos Guillen La Playita image 1
Mariscos Guillen La Playita image 2
Mariscos Guillen La Playita image 3
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Mexican restaurant

Food counter serves fresh seafood with a simple, unchanged vibe. Fried fish tacos offer a crispy texture and rich flavor, while shrimp tacos provide a tasty alternative. Affordable prices and a popular campechana cocktail make it a casual, satisfying spot.

Fried fish tacos stand out with their crispy texture and rich flavor. Shrimp tacos also offer a tasty alternative, both delivering a satisfying seafood bite.

People are saying

"I thought the ceviche here was the best in the world."

"These fish tacos are the greatest thing I've ever put in my mouth."

"I found the burritos here to be really fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 7:45 PM, not 9:00 PM as indicated by GPS.

2

Expect to eat outside or next door at the tire shop due to limited seating.

3

Prices are very affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.

02
LA PUREPECHA COCINA MEXICANA image 1

Small Mexican spot serves fresh fish tacos with a spicy kick and thick crust. Casual vibe with family-friendly paper plate service and Mexican tunes. TVs show local sports, making it a welcoming quick dine experience.

Fish tacos feature fresh fish with a thick crust and plump filling. They offer great flavor and a good amount of spice, cooked to a perfect balance.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is oozing with flavor and moisture."

"You have to try their thick, homemade tortillas; they're full of flavor."

"These fish tacos are so flavorful, they'll blow your mind."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers a 1 plus 1 deal on tacos.

2

Specials are available Monday through Friday with $2 off select items.

3

Street parking is available, but can be hard to find.

03
The Curious Palate image 1
New American restaurant

Open-air seating creates a calm, relaxing vibe perfect for families. Fish tacos shine with never frozen fish and a Baja style that pairs well with the spicy satay salad. Bright, spacious interior feels homey and curated for unwinding.

Fish tacos feature never frozen fish and a Baja style that stands out. They pair well with other dishes like the spicy satay salad.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, healthy, and delicious."

"This Local Spot's fresh, from-scratch cooking uses local ingredients."

"I thought the Baja fish tacos were absolutely amazing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located on the 3rd floor of the Santa Monica Place Mall.

2

The menu offers a variety of dishes at reasonable prices.

3

There are many vegetarian options available.

04
The Whaler Santa Monica image 1

Oceanfront setting delivers unmatched beach views and lively nights with a DJ. Crispy fish tacos offer crunchy texture and bold flavor, perfect with clam chowder. Outdoor terraces provide sunset views and a vibrant bar scene for social groups.

Crispy fish tacos stand out with their crunchy texture and strong flavor. They pair well with clam chowder and offer a solid seafood option alongside lobster rolls.

People are saying

"The live sports here are great, with friendly and attentive service."

"The outdoor seating has a great view of the Santa Monica Pier."

"The crispy fish tacos here are amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-5pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Karaoke night, called terry-oke, happens every Monday at 9pm.

3

Parking is available nearby through SpotHero for convenience.

05
The Albright image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seaside spot boasts a huge outdoor deck with scenic views and patio seating where dogs are welcome. Fish tacos shine with Mahi Mahi and Baja styles, though seasoning can vary. Chill vibe flows from Bob Marley tunes and cozy heaters, making it a relaxed, casual hangout.

Fish tacos feature Mahi Mahi and Baja styles with a grilled cheese option for kids. They taste good but sometimes need more seasoning and sauce.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The oysters here are super fresh and delicious."

"The fish tacos were good, but could use more sauce."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

2

Expect long lines around noon; arrive early to secure a table.

3

Prices are effectively 10% higher due to a hidden fee.

06
Jamesonโ€™s Pub image 1

Irish pub offers authentic decor and a lively sports bar vibe with many TVs. Fish tacos deliver exceptional flavor and pair well with drinks like Bloody Mary. Live music and karaoke create an energetic atmosphere in indoor and outdoor beachside-style spaces.

Fish tacos stand out for their exceptional flavor and quality. They pair well with drinks like the Bloody Mary and match the excellence of other dishes like prime rib.

People are saying

"It's a lively bar with a fun, energetic atmosphere."

"I loved the happy hour deals, especially the two-for-one drinks."

"I thought the fish tacos here were amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3pm to 7pm with 2-for-1 drink specials.

2

A cover charge applies after 10 PM on Saturday nights.

3

The pub can get very crowded during football season.

07
Benny's Tacos & Rotisserie Chicken in Santa Monica image 1

Mexican restaurant shines with charred white fish tacos that offer a sweet smoky flavor and crunchy texture. Spacious covered patio and ample outdoor seating create a lively Californian vibe. Casual self-ordering and generous portions make it a favorite spot for taco lovers.

Charred white fish, often Mexican bass, forms the base of these fish tacos, which come fried or grilled. They pack a crunchy texture, mountain of toppings, and a sweet smoky flavor that bursts with every bite.

People are saying

"The Outdoor Seating is great for delicious, well-seasoned tacos."

"The outdoor patio has a relaxing, spacious vibe."

"These fish tacos are tender, savory, and packed with crunchy fish."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky but there is a free small lot available.

2

Expect large portions for the price, which is generally considered good.

3

Taco Tuesdays offer special promotions worth checking out.

08
Vamos. Vamos. image 1
Restaurant

Small spot with a relaxed atmosphere and fun 90s tunes. Grilled fish tacos offer tender fish and crisp cabbage, served simply without sauce. Friendly staff keep energy warm and inviting as vibe shifts to a trendy, dimly lit scene at night.

Grilled fish tacos feature tender, melt-in-your-mouth fish with a generous amount of cabbage. They come without any sauce or salsa.

People are saying

"The Mexican Food here is served by the friendliest, most welcoming staff."

"You have to try the elote nachos; they're possibly sublime."

"I thought the fish tacos were very good."

Good to know

1

Prices have increased since the management change, making it a bit pricey.

2

The menu has been pared down to a few items, losing some previous favorites.

3

Salsa is not included with tacos and must be purchased separately.

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Santa Monica, California

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