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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Downtown Santa Monica

Mexican food

Nothing satisfies quite like the specific heat and spice of traditional Mexican dishes.

Based on 678 Opinions
+675
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Updated May 2026
01
Desvelados Santa Monica image 1
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Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant with stunning design and beautiful decor creates a cozy yet lively atmosphere. Music plays softly while a large screen TV shows NBA games behind the bar. The place welcomes families and groups, featuring large tables for celebrations.

Food comes out fresh and flavorful, packed with authentic Mexican taste. Service is attentive, making the dining experience smooth and enjoyable.

Tacos stand out with rich flavors, especially the Paloma and costeรฑo burrito. Agua fresca and churros offer refreshing and sweet options that appeal even to picky eaters.

People are saying

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

"I thought the food was delicious and outstanding."

"The atmosphere here is great and chill."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers margarita and taco specials.

2

Santa Monica charges a 10.75% city tax on all bills.

3

The menu features a variety of innovative burritos and tacos.

02
Yagul Cafe image 1
Restaurant

Small, cozy restaurant with a family-run feel and casual atmosphere. Outdoor seating includes two small tables, one suitable for dogs. Loud juice machine and blenders near dining area affect the otherwise relaxed vibe.

Food comes fresh to order with authentic Mexican flavors and affordable prices. The menu features delicious breakfast options and dishes made with clear passion and care.

Chilaquiles stand out with authentic seasoning and a chef's kiss quality. Huevos rancheros and mole offer home-cooked flavors rarely found elsewhere.

People are saying

"The breakfast burritos here are phenomenal and delicious."

"This Mexican food is so fresh and has amazing flavors."

"The Mexican food here is authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Yagul Cafe is a family-owned establishment known for its authentic Oaxacan cuisine.

2

The cafe seats around 30 people, making it an intimate dining experience.

3

Expect to pay around $20 for chicken enchiladas, which may be considered small in portion.

03
Brightside California Kitchen image 1

Cozy restaurant with live music and large Fonzi-style tables creates a welcoming, quiet atmosphere even when busy. Bright, clean space offers a cool vibe perfect for brunch. Guests enjoy delicious breakfast dishes and a relaxed setting.

Food comes out excellently seasoned and very filling. Simple cuisine pairs well with a welcoming atmosphere and beautifully set tables.

Huevos rancheros stand out as a delicious and well-prepared dish. The breakfast burrito is tasty, filling, and consistently well done.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"The servers here are so friendly and welcoming."

"You have to try their amazing breakfast burrito; it's so tasty and filling."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy with a garage across the street, free for the first 90 minutes.

2

The restaurant is kid-friendly, making it a good choice for families.

3

Vegan breakfast options are available on the menu.

04
The Curious Palate image 1
New American restaurant

Restaurant offers open-air seating with a calm, relaxing atmosphere that contrasts with nearby noisy spots. Space feels homey and curated, encouraging guests to unwind in a bright, spacious interior suitable for families.

Food features homemade dishes crafted from local produce including beer. Quality consistently rates as outstanding with delicious flavors and excellent service.

Squash blossom tacos offer a melting cheesy flavor that stands out. Fish tacos come fresh, never frozen, and tortilla soup hits a perfect spice level.

People are saying

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

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

"You have to try the Baja fish tacos; they're incredible."

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.

05
LA PUREPECHA COCINA MEXICANA image 1

Small Mexican restaurant with spartan interiors and paper plate service offers a super casual and family-friendly vibe. Background music features Mexican tunes while TVs show local sports and events. The atmosphere feels welcoming but leans toward quick dining rather than lingering.

Authentic Mexican food stands out with exceptional flavor and hot, fast service. Spanish phrases on the walls add to the genuine atmosphere.

Tacos stand out with tender carnitas and fresh fish, all wrapped in handmade tortillas. Breakfast burritos and shrimp burritos pack bold flavors, while esquites offer a creamy, tangy heat.

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."

"The food here is amazing and authentic."

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.

06
Santa Monica Seafood Market & Cafe image 1

Seafood market combines fresh seafood displays with a lively oyster bar and casual dining space. Atmosphere balances bustling market energy with enough quiet for conversation. Offers a community hub vibe where people shop and eat in one place.

Food features exceptional freshness and high quality with flavors that stand out as extremely delicious. Staff provide helpful guidance on ordering both dine-in and takeaway options.

Seafood tacos stand out with baja style and wild fish options. Corn tortillas and sauces come homemade, adding fresh flavor to each taco.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The food here is exceptionally high quality and delicious."

"The seafood tacos here are amazing and well prepared."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at the back of the market.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

3

Prices for fresh seafood are comparable to upscale restaurants.

07
1212 Santa Monica image 1
New American restaurant

Large space with dog-friendly patio and live DJ music creates a loud, fun atmosphere that energizes the evening. Outdoor seating features fire pits enhancing the vibe. Music volume often challenges conversation but adds to the lively environment.

Food here stands out for its excellent quality and fantastic flavors. Service complements the meals well, creating a solid dining experience.

Tacos come with tender tequila chicken and velvety short rib options, each priced at $5. Crostinis, lamb tacos, and sliders arrive fresh and fast, pairing well with a 12 oz wine mega pint.

People are saying

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

"Our Brunch server Robert was very attentive and accommodating."

"I loved the all-night happy hour deal on Mexican food."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

All-night happy hour is available on Mondays, offering great deals.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events like the Super Bowl.

08
Shirubฤ“ image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Long, narrow space with open kitchen and intimate bar seating offers a cozy, authentic vibe. Lighting creates a romantic atmosphere that highlights the antique sake cups and skilled chefs at work. The setting feels distinct from typical izakayas, blending minimal decor with thoughtful design.

Japanese style bar food features authentic flavors and dishes mostly under $25. The Saba stands out for its quality and careful preparation, paired with warm, thoughtful service.

Pork belly tacos stand out as a flavorful and affordable option at $6. Other notable dishes include corn ribs, prawn tempura, and Dan Dan noodles, which add variety beyond typical Mexican fare.

People are saying

"The sashimi here is incredibly fresh and delicious."

"The food here is so fresh and full of flavor."

"You have to try the pork belly tacos; they're great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day on Sunday with food and drink specials.

2

Most happy hour menu items are about $5 cheaper than regular prices.

3

They offer both early and late-night happy hour specials.

09
Casa Martin | 3rd St Promenade image 1

Mexican restaurant offers a cozy, stylish atmosphere with live Mariachi music and outdoor seating on a promenade. The space feels warm and inviting, blending a laid-back vibe with exquisite decoration. Guests enjoy a mix of traditional dishes and notable margarita flights in a lively setting.

Food arrives quickly with generous portions and fresh, authentic Mexican flavors. Guacamole stands out as a tasty highlight.

Fish tacos come loaded and very tasty, standing out alongside mole and verde enchiladas that deliver strong flavors. Margaritas include a unique, balanced flight and pair well with dishes like the wet burrito and fresh guacamole.

People are saying

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

"The seafood, especially the garlic shrimp, was delicious."

"The food here is delicious and authentic Mexican."

Good to know

1

Expect an 18% automatic service charge on your bill.

2

Happy hour offers better value with a 2 taco special.

3

The average entree costs around $25.

10
The Chestnut Club image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar with dim, moody lighting and an old-timey speakeasy vibe. Music features a live saxophone and a DJ mixing new and old jams, creating a cool, laid-back atmosphere. Seating includes booths, high tops, and bar stools, supporting both relaxed drinks and dancing.

Happy hour offers good drinks and food options. Food quality varies, with some dishes not standing out.

Happy Hour features sliders, tacos, and deviled eggs that stand out. Tuna tacos offer a better flavor than the ceviche. Margaritas come solid and well-made.

People are saying

"The DJ mixed different music and played all the jams."

"The old-school speakeasy vibe and decor inside is really cool."

"The food and drinks here were awesome."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Expect wait times of less than 10 minutes for drink orders.

3

Happy hour offers specials on drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm.

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Downtown, Santa Monica

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