Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Temecula

Salsa spots

Made for those who judge the integrity of a Mexican meal entirely by the quality of the salsa.

Based on 641 Opinions
+638
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
El Canario Carnitas image 1
El Canario Carnitas image 2
El Canario Carnitas image 3
View all

Small restaurant offers a cozy, homey vibe with a peaceful, quiet atmosphere. Authentic Mexican background music plays softly, enhancing the warm, inviting environment. The space feels clean and well decorated, creating a comfortable dining experience.

Carnitas with skin on stand out as the most authentic and flavorful dish. Homemade tortillas accompany large, meat-stuffed taquitos and a well-balanced pozole, making the Mexican food here both delicious and affordable.

Chips and salsa show clear care for quality and flavor. Green salsa with carnitas tastes simply delicious, making the salsa and chips stand out in the area.

People are saying

"I'd drive from Orange County just for these carnitas."

"You have to try the carnitas; they're some of the best I've ever tasted."

"I'd drive here just for the carnitas; they're amazing."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Weekend specials are available, offering unique dishes at a discount.

3

The restaurant is located in an industrial area, making it less visible.

02
Kennedy's Meat Market - Temecula image 1

Butcher shop offers great cuts of meat with exceptional marinades like mango habanero and Al Pastor. Atmosphere feels welcoming and vibrant, attracting those seeking high-quality fresh meats and flavorful options beyond typical grocery stores.

Mango Habanero carne asada stands out for its tender, flavorful marinade. Chips come with homemade salsa that pairs well, and the Al Pastor marinaded chicken offers a rich, satisfying taste.

A wide variety of homemade salsas including salsa verde and mango habanero offer flavorful options. Chips pair well with these salsas and dips, making for a tasty combination.

People are saying

"I found the fresh meat here to be the best I ever had."

"The carne asada here is tender and flavorful."

"I've never had carne asada this good, especially with the mango habanero salsa."

Good to know

1

Kennedy's Meat Market offers a great selection of high-quality meats.

2

Prices at Kennedy's Meat Market are competitive for the quality provided.

3

Customer service at Kennedy's Meat Market is highly rated by visitors.

03
Landeros Mexican Grill + Cantina image 1

Mexican restaurant with colorful murals and traditional folk art creates a cool vibe inside and on the dog-friendly patio. Atmosphere suits both intimate dinners and lively gatherings, with shaded outdoor seating featuring misters. Strong, tasty margaritas and standout dishes like guacamole and carne asada tacos complement the inviting setting.

Salsa stands out as best ever, paired with big guacamole bowls and sizzling enchiladas. Meats like asada, chicken, and carnitas come well seasoned and tender, with tacos and a surf and turf burrito offering strong flavors.

Salsa here stands out for its exceptional flavor and pairs perfectly with crispy chips. Drinks complement the salsa, making the combination fantastic.

People are saying

"This Mexican food is much better than normal Tex Mex."

"The food here is delicious and authentic for Date Spots."

"I thought the salsa was the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early or using nearby lots.

2

Rice and beans cost an extra $5 with entrees, unlike many other places.

3

Expect large portion sizes that provide good value for the price.

04
El Taco Bar image 1
Mexican restaurant

Industrial design shapes a clean, spacious setting with classy decor and comfortable seating. Friendly energy fills the space, complemented by a big screen TV and cerveza on tap. Tacos stand out as authentic and flavorful, offering a distinct taste experience.

Tacos feature tender meat and freshly made tortillas with authentic, flavorful salsas. Burritos like the Carne Asada Poblano and carnitas all meat are large, fresh, and highly rated for quality and taste.

Four fresh salsas come with limes and roasted chili peppers. They add excellent flavor and enhance the quality of the food.

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be delicious."

"This Mexican food is so flavorful, especially the carne asada burritos."

"The salsas here are excellent and really good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 10 pm.

2

The taco flight with 4 tacos costs $16.

3

Prices are fair, with five specialty tacos and a drink costing $33.

05
Fonda Doña Loca image 1

Small restaurant offers clean, bright setting with comfortable booths and family-friendly atmosphere. The vibe is welcoming and genuine, with no music or TV, creating a relaxed environment. Guests enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine with a variety of flavorful dishes and reasonable prices.

Carne asada tacos stand out with handmade corn tortillas and a variety of salsas served alongside. Chilaquiles come with a notable spicy kick and authentic flavors close to homemade Mexican food.

Three housemade salsas come with meals: green (mild), red (medium), and orange (hottest). The green salsa stands out as the hottest and flavorful option, adding a perfect kick to dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic and delicious."

"The Mexican food here is so delicious, it tastes homemade."

"The salsa here is delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is very clean and well-maintained.

2

The portions are generous, ensuring good value for your meal.

3

Fonda Doña Loca has a couple of good vegetarian options.

06
Familia Restaurant Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a friendly, family-oriented vibe with outdoor seating to enjoy the weather. Atmosphere stays low key and welcoming, matching the reasonably priced, large burritos and tacos that draw locals regularly.

Fresh, clean guacamole and crispy, juicy carnitas stand out. Burritos come large and satisfying, with options like shrimp and breakfast chorizo. Tacos, including grilled fish and rolled versions, are consistently delicious. Chips and salsa come on the house.

Salsas come fresh and next level with a spicy kick that stands out. Chips and salsa come on the house, and the avocado salsa brings a hot, delicious flavor.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great and fresh tasting."

"I highly recommend the Mexican food here."

"The salsa here is outstanding and very fresh tasting."

Good to know

1

Chips and salsa are complimentary with your meal.

2

Taco Tuesday offers special pricing on tacos.

3

The restaurant maintains high hygiene standards.

07
Los Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant with a small, simple interior and lively atmosphere. Salsa bar offers many options, enhancing the flavor experience. Space is cramped with few tables and some outdoor seating.

Tacos feature handmade tortillas and a house made salsa that packs a punch. The al pastor tacos stand out with rich flavor and a satisfying bite, often paired with pineapple for a classic touch.

A fresh salsa bar offers a variety of vibrant salsas that brighten every dish. Handmade, fluffy tortillas made from yellow maize pair perfectly with the house made salsa for a flavorful experience.

People are saying

"The al pastor tacos here are killer Mexican food."

"The salsa bar here has so many fresh options."

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

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers $2 tacos on Taco Tuesday.

2

They offer vegetarian options on the menu.

3

Los Tacos is a local favorite among residents.

08
Los Jilberto's Taco Shop Temecula Parkway image 1

Mexican restaurant with large portions and generous, flavorful tacos offers a variety of fresh salsas, including a standout chipotle salsa. Atmosphere is casual and unassuming, with affordable prices and a steady but not busy pace on weekday evenings.

SoCal style tacos feature shredded chicken and beef with a home-style taste and chunky texture. Burritos come phenomenal with extra cheese, while carne asada fries and nachos are massive and shareable with fresh toppings and great salsas like chipotle.

Salsas come in a variety of flavors with the chipotle salsa standing out as a favorite. Green salsa pairs well with fries and the overall selection is delicious and well-crafted.

People are saying

"This burrito is huge, delicious, and not greasy."

"The salsas here are delicious and amazing."

"The Mexican food here is loaded and fresh, perfect for sharing."

Good to know

1

Expect a busy atmosphere during dinner hours on weekends.

2

Coupons can be used for discounts on your meal.

3

The breakfast burrito is priced at $14.

09
Aztek Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open-air kitchen divides restaurant and bar, creating a warm interior with a lively atmosphere. Bar area offers refreshing micheladas and a complete salsa bar. Space feels casual and welcoming, with a bustling crowd and a patio outside.

Carne asada burritos and California burritos stand out for their flavor and quality. Tacos come with fresh tortillas, tender meats, melted cheese, and vibrant salsas, all served quickly and authentically.

An open salsa bar offers a variety of fresh, clean, and flavorful options. Guests can serve themselves to complement tacos, burritos, and other dishes.

People are saying

"The tacos here are authentic and packed with bold, delicious flavor."

"I loved the variety and spice levels of their salsa bar."

"I thought the Mexican food here was the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Prices for tacos range from $7 to $18, depending on the type.

3

Everything is made fresh, including tortillas and horchata.

10
Cocina Del Carmen Temecula image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious dining area features a lovely mural and Latino Cubano music that creates a chill, quiet atmosphere. The place balances a clean, neat decor with a casual vibe, avoiding loud music and focusing on food. Craft beers on tap complement authentic Mexican dishes known for their exceptional flavor.

Authentic Mexican food shines here with dishes like birria en su jugo and tostada gringa standing out. Tacos, mole, enchiladas, and burritos offer rich, traditional flavors without Americanized twists.

Salsa features homemade recipes crafted by the owner's mother, delivering an authentic and flavorful taste. The flavors stand out as original and delicious, avoiding typical cookie-cutter profiles.

People are saying

"The Oaxacan food here is so authentic and flavorful, it exceeded our expectations."

"You have to try the Oaxacan Mexican food, especially the mole."

"The salsa here is original and delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos and drinks.

2

The restaurant offers authentic Oaxacan cuisine, not just typical Mexican dishes.

3

Reservations are not required, but it's good to check for busy times.

11
Jilberto’s Taco Shop (Mall) image 1

Mexican restaurant with a salsa bar and generous portions offers a clean, quiet setting near a mall. The vibe is casual with reasonable prices and a focus on authentic flavors like carne asada and breakfast burritos. It attracts those seeking authentic Mexican food without crowds or long waits.

Burritos come stuffed with bacon and fries, offering bold flavors like carne asada and Congo. Tacos and nachos feature authentic Mexican tastes with clean surroundings and attentive service.

An open salsa bar offers a variety of salsas, including red and green options. Carrots are available at the salsa bar, and the area stays super clean throughout.

People are saying

"The burritos here are huge and delicious."

"The salsa here is amazing and so flavorful."

"The Mexican food here has really good portions and is yummy."

Good to know

1

The wet burrito costs $10.50.

2

Chips are not complimentary and must be purchased separately.

3

Expect reasonable prices for generous portions.

12
Serrano's Fresco Grill Inc image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with clean environment and a fresh salsa bar showcasing quality ingredients. The atmosphere feels uncomfortably hot, which affects the overall vibe. Offers authentic tortillas and a variety of flavorful dishes like burritos and shrimp tacos.

Fresh ingredients shine through in the salsa bar and daily menudo. Burritos, tacos, quesadillas, and tostadas offer unique flavors with tortillas that mimic authentic Mexican style.

Freshness stands out with a clean salsa bar featuring a wide selection of salsas made from quality ingredients. Staff ask if you'll eat your salsa before serving, showing attention to detail.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and has a unique flavor."

"The salsa bar here is so fresh and has a great selection."

"I've been all over; this is the best Mexican food."

Good to know

1

The establishment is conveniently located with easy and plentiful parking.

2

The restaurant is very clean and well-maintained.

3

The payment processing equipment is modern and accepts various payment methods.

13
La Choza Peruvian & Mexican Restaurant image 1

Peruvian and Mexican dishes share space in a family-owned restaurant with a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a quiet, peaceful dining room. The space feels clean and cozy, with a distinct home-style vibe that suits family meals. Air conditioning is uneven, with only one side cooled, but the overall environment remains comfortable.

Surf and turf burrito stands out with fresh carnitas and savory beans, packed with flavor until the last bite. Al pastor and carne asada tacos offer classic Mexican tastes alongside Peruvian chicken with rice.

Salsa roja stands out with its excellent flavor. Green salsa has a creamy cilantro vibe but with a different texture and a spicy kick.

People are saying

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

"I found the Mexican food, especially the burrito, to be amazing."

"The salsa here is terrific and homemade."

Good to know

1

Prices for dishes may not match the online menu.

2

Only one side of the restaurant has air conditioning.

3

Expect large portions when ordering meals.

14
Casa de Lucy image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, quaint Mexican restaurant with authentic, homey decor creates a cozy, peaceful atmosphere. Music adds to the inviting vibe, attracting those seeking a family-owned, cultural dining experience. Large portions and reasonable prices complement the beautifully decorated, immaculate space.

Authentic Mexican food shines with chips and salsa that stand out. Dishes like the shredded beef chimichangas, macho burrito, and menudo offer hearty, flavorful options.

Chips come with fresh, flavorful salsa that has a nice kick. The chips and salsa often stand out as the real stars of the meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and the price is reasonable."

"The Mexican food here has a delicious, flavorful sauce."

"You have to try the chips and salsa; they're the stars."

Good to know

1

There is a $2 surcharge on menu prices, as indicated by a sticker.

2

The total meal cost can be higher than expected due to additional charges.

3

The restaurant is clean and well-maintained.

15
Rosa's Cafe & Tortilla Factory image 1

Bright, colorful space with authentic Mexican decor and hand-painted furniture creates a festive atmosphere. Salsa bar and freshly made tortillas add to the lively, casual vibe. Seating includes both inside and patio options, welcoming families and groups.

Freshly made tortillas stand out with great texture and flavor, giving a homemade feel. The shredded chicken tacos offer authentic Mexican taste at affordable prices, especially during Taco Tuesday deals.

Several kinds of salsa, pico, cilantro, onions, and jalapenos fill the salsa bar. The chili de Arbol stands out among the fresh, flavorful options.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is really good and delicious."

"You can watch the fresh tortillas being made."

"I always enjoyed the food and the salsa here."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers three tacos, beans, and rice for about $8.

2

Expect a packed house on Taco Tuesdays; arrive early.

3

The taco special is available all day on Tuesdays.

16
Guadalajara Mexican Grill & Cantina image 1

Mexican restaurant combines festive decor with a vibrant patio and live mariachi music that energizes the space. Seating feels tight and crowded, especially indoors, while the patio can be noisy. The mix of bar and dining areas creates a lively, social atmosphere.

Chili Verde Burrito stands out as a signature dish. The Fajitas for 2 come with chicken, steak, and shrimp, offering plenty of food. Refried beans and veggie enchiladas also make a strong impression.

Complimentary chips come with a homemade salsa dip that stands out. Staff serve chips and salsa quickly, keeping the experience smooth and fresh.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious and fairly priced."

"The food and service here are great for date spots."

"The salsa and chips were full and great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Sunday to Thursday with discounted drinks.

2

Taco Tuesday features special pricing, so arrive early for the best selection.

3

Karaoke starts at 10pm on Thursdays; expect a lively atmosphere.

17
Los Panchos Mexican Grill & Seafood Cantina image 1

Full-sized bar with live DJ sets a loud, upbeat atmosphere that energizes the space. Clean, organized dining areas feature attractive decor and comfy bar seating. Authentic Mexican dishes accompany a wide variety of margaritas, creating a vibrant dining experience.

Authentic Mexican food shines with handmade tortillas, full tacos, and a unique sauce on shredded beef enchiladas. Plates like steak fajitas and mixed fajitas come with very good refried beans, rice, and beans, making for a solid meal.

Chips come with hot and mild salsas served quickly, even when busy. The red chip salsa has wonderful flavor with a bit of back end heat.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and very good."

"I enjoyed the authentic Mexican food with bold flavors."

"The salsa here has wonderful flavor with a bit of back end heat."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos all day.

3

Karaoke night is every Wednesday starting at 8pm with no cover charge.

18
Tacos & Beer Mi Lindo Mexico image 1

Mexican restaurant offers a beautiful interior with authentic Mexican artwork and multiple TVs playing music videos. Atmosphere is lively with a DJ on weekend evenings and a self-serve horchata bar. Outdoor patio and indoor seating provide options for casual dining or watching games.

Tacos come with fresh, authentic flavors and include standout options like fish tacos and crispy chicken tacos. Specialty dishes such as Birria Tacos, Ceviche, and Queso Fundido add variety and depth to the menu.

Salsas here offer a medium spicy kick with authentic flavor. The salsa bar stands out, and the spicy red salsa tastes like homemade.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, packed with flavor and delicious."

"The salsa has a perfect, flavorful kick."

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 2pm with $5 margaritas and 50% off beer.

2

Taco Tuesday offers special pricing on tacos every Tuesday.

3

An automatic 18% gratuity is added for groups of seven or more.

19
Vero Mexican and Seafood image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with cozy traditional diner vibe and comfy booths offers a mini salsa bar and authentic Mexican music playing softly. Atmosphere stays calm and chill, reflecting a mom-and-pop shop feel. Known for authentic recipes from México and generous portion sizes.

Authentic salsa bar offers a variety of fresh salsas. Large carne asada burritos and surf n turf burritos pack generous meat and toppings. Chips and salsa taste very authentic, with nachos loaded with meat, guacamole, and cheese. Chilaquiles and Nopalitos with eggs provide solid traditional options.

Salsas come with flavorful and spicy profiles and a nice selection at the salsa bar. Servers offer various salsas picantes to try alongside authentic chips.

People are saying

"I found the best Mexican food here."

"I loved the authentic chilaquiles and nopalitos with eggs."

"The salsa bar had a nice selection and was delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect prices to be around $12.99 for a hearty meal with chips and guacamole.

2

The restaurant offers generous portion sizes, especially for the price.

3

Vegetarian options are limited, so check the menu beforehand.

20
Lienzo Charro Mexican Restaurant Bar & Grill image 1

Spacious Mexican restaurant with pool tables and a well-stocked bar featuring live music and a jukebox. Atmosphere is casual and comfortable, suitable for hanging out and playing board games. Lighting tends to be dim, and air conditioning is effective at the bar area.

Complimentary chips and salsa start the meal. The menu features authentic menudo and handmade tortillas. Spicy margaritas come off-menu, and the buffet offers all-you-can-eat menudo and pozole.

Complimentary chips come with homemade salsa that stands out for its flavor. The Agua Chile green salsa ceviche is very hot and served in a small portion. Salsa dancing workshops happen on Wednesdays.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really good."

"The Sunday breakfast buffet at this Mexican food spot was delicious."

"The chips and salsa here were really good."

Good to know

1

Salsa dancing workshops are held every Wednesday night.

2

Taco Tuesdays offer special deals on tacos.

3

Reservations are recommended for busy nights like Friday and Saturday.

21
Jilberto's Taco Shop image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with large portions and a salsa bar offering several choices including hot and mild options. Atmosphere tends to be warm and casual, with straightforward service and an easy in-and-out experience. Food focuses on traditional flavors with some dishes praised for freshness and size rather than gourmet quality.

Burritos with perfectly cooked meat like carne asada and al pastor stand out, along with fresh breakfast burritos featuring egg, potato, ham, bacon, and sausage. Cheese enchiladas come topped with lettuce, and carne asada fries offer great flavor with well-prepared meat.

A salsa bar offers several choices, including a couple of hot salsas and a mild one. The hot salsa lives up to its name, and the selection includes carrots alongside the salsas.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the burritos, is bomb."

"The salsa here is delicious and perfectly cooked."

"The Carne Asada fries had great flavor and perfectly cooked meat."

Good to know

1

Prices for tacos are around $2.50, but burritos are $13.99.

2

Expect large portions, especially for tacos and burritos.

3

Parking is easy and accessible, allowing for quick in-and-out.

Discover more

Temecula, California

Area guide
Loading Map...