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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Temecula

Salsa spots

Salsa that brings a genuine kick of heat rather than the watered down, mild version meant to please everyone.

Based on 628 Opinions
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Updated July 2026
01
Landeros Mexican Grill + Cantina image 1
Landeros Mexican Grill + Cantina image 2
Landeros Mexican Grill + Cantina image 3
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Mexican spot boasts colorful murals and a dog-friendly patio with misters for cool outdoor dining. Salsa is exceptionally flavorful, paired with crispy chips and strong margaritas. Perfect for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings.

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.

02
El Taco Bar image 1
Mexican restaurant

Industrial design creates a clean, spacious spot with classy decor and comfy seats. Four fresh salsas with limes and roasted chili peppers add excellent flavor to the authentic tacos. Friendly energy and a big screen TV make it a lively place to enjoy cerveza on tap.

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."

"The tacos here are so authentic and flavorful."

"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.

03
Kennedy's Meat Market - Temecula image 1

Butcher shop shines with exceptional marinades like mango habanero and Al Pastor, offering fresh, high-quality cuts. Homemade salsas such as salsa verde and mango habanero add bold flavor. Chips make a perfect match, creating a tasty combination in a welcoming atmosphere.

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.

04
Los Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Hole-in-the-wall spot with a lively atmosphere and cramped space. Fresh salsa bar offers vibrant options that brighten every dish. Handmade yellow maize tortillas add a perfect touch to the flavorful experience.

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.

05
El Canario Carnitas image 1

Cozy spot with a peaceful atmosphere and authentic Mexican tunes sets a warm mood. Chips and salsa shine with fresh green salsa and tasty carnitas. Clean, well-decorated space makes dining comfortable and inviting.

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."

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

"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.

06
La Choza Peruvian & Mexican Restaurant image 1

Family-owned spot serves Peruvian and Mexican dishes in a cozy, home-style setting. Salsa roja offers excellent flavor, while green salsa brings a creamy cilantro vibe with a spicy kick. Dining room is quiet and comfortable despite uneven air conditioning.

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 burrito to be amazing and full of flavor."

"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.

07
Aztek Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open-air kitchen creates a warm interior with a lively vibe. Bar serves refreshing micheladas and a complete salsa bar with fresh, flavorful options. Casual space has a bustling crowd and a welcoming patio outside.

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."

"The bar staff were always great and friendly."

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.

08
Los Jilberto's Taco Shop Temecula Parkway image 1

Mexican spot serves generous tacos with a variety of fresh salsas, especially the chipotle salsa. Casual vibe and affordable prices make it easy to enjoy flavorful meals without fuss.

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 food, especially the carne asada nachos, is super loaded and enough to share."

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
Serrano's Fresco Grill Inc image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot shines with fresh salsa bar and authentic tortillas. Flavorful burritos and shrimp tacos add to the appeal. Beware of the hot atmosphere that might affect comfort.

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.

10
Fonda Doña Loca image 1

Small restaurant offers a family-friendly atmosphere with clean booths and no distractions. Guests enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine with flavorful dishes at fair prices. Meals come with three housemade salsas, including a bold green salsa that adds a perfect kick.

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 food here is delicious, making it a great spot for dates."

"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.

11
Familia Restaurant Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot offers a family-oriented vibe with outdoor seating. Burritos and tacos are large and affordable, drawing locals. Salsas are fresh with a spicy kick, and avocado salsa stands out. Chips and salsa come free, adding to the welcoming feel.

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 enjoyed the breakfast burrito, especially the salsa."

"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.

12
Jilberto’s Taco Shop (Mall) image 1

Mexican restaurant near a mall offers authentic flavors like carne asada and breakfast burritos in a clean, quiet setting. An open salsa bar features variety of salsas and fresh carrots, kept super clean throughout. Portions are generous and prices reasonable.

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."

"It's so Kid Friendly, they even have dino nuggets!"

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.

13
Cocina Del Carmen Temecula image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious dining area with a lovely mural and chill Latino Cubano music sets a quiet, casual vibe. Authentic Mexican dishes shine with homemade salsa recipes from the owner's mother. Craft beers on tap perfectly complement the exceptional flavor of the food.

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."

"The Black Plague Blond Ale was tasty, smooth, and perfect for the meal."

"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.

14
Tacos & Beer Mi Lindo Mexico image 1

Mexican restaurant shines with authentic artwork and a lively vibe thanks to a weekend DJ. Salsa bar offers medium spicy kick with homemade-style red salsa. Enjoy casual dining on the outdoor patio or watch games on multiple TVs indoors.

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 atmosphere and decor here are really cool."

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.

15
Casa de Lucy image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, quaint Mexican spot offers fresh salsa with a spicy kick and large portions at great prices. Cozy, homey decor and peaceful music create a family-owned vibe that feels authentic and inviting.

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.

16
Los Panchos Mexican Grill & Seafood Cantina image 1

Full-sized bar offers live DJ sets that energize the space. Dining areas are clean with attractive decor and comfy seating. Authentic Mexican dishes come with hot and mild salsas, including a red salsa with back end heat.

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."

"The DJ played energetic music and created a lively atmosphere."

"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.

17
Rosa's Cafe & Tortilla Factory image 1

Bright, colorful space with authentic Mexican decor sets a festive tone. The salsa bar offers fresh, flavorful options like chili de Arbol, pico, and jalapenos. Seating inside and on the patio welcomes families and groups for a lively, casual meal.

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.

18
Guadalajara Mexican Grill & Cantina image 1

Mexican restaurant shines with homemade salsa served quickly alongside complimentary chips. Vibrant patio and live mariachi music create a festive vibe. Seating is tight indoors, adding to the lively, social atmosphere.

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.

19
Vero Mexican and Seafood image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy diner vibe with comfy booths invites you to enjoy authentic Mexican music and generous portions. Mini salsa bar offers a variety of spicy salsas that pair perfectly with fresh chips. Calm, mom-and-pop feel makes it a relaxing spot for true Mexican flavors.

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
Cotija's Taco Shop image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot offers walk-up service with no indoor seating and pricey portions. Breakfast burritos and carne asada tacos deliver good flavor and size. Orange habanero salsa shines with strong flavor, while red salsa recalls tacos de canasta. Variety and thoughtful service stand out.

Orange habanero salsa stands out as a favorite with a strong flavor. The red salsa resembles the one used in tacos de canasta. Some salsas like the green one can be watery, but overall they offer a variety with good flavor and thoughtful service.

People are saying

"The drive-thru service is always friendly and quick."

"These tacos reminded me of San Diego."

"The salsa tasted like the salsa used in tacos de canasta."

Good to know

1

Cotija's Taco Shop only offers walk-up or drive-through service.

2

Taco Tuesday and Wednesday offer unbeatable deals.

3

The prices were a bit high, with a total cost of $41.00 for a meal.

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Temecula, California

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