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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Ventura

Salsa Spots

Salsa that actually has a distinct character, instead of the bland, uniform red sauce found everywhere else.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Taqueria Cuernavaca Express image 1
Taqueria Cuernavaca Express image 2
Taqueria Cuernavaca Express image 3
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Mexican restaurant

Small indoor space feels stuffy but shaded patio offers comfort. Known for best tacos with a varied salsa bar featuring bold, rich flavors. Prices stay reasonable, attracting taco lovers seeking fresh, flavorful Mexican food.

Bold flavors define the salsas here, with a mild salsa so rich it can be enjoyed on its own. The variety offers a strong, memorable taste that stands out.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and really tasty."

"I thought the tacos here were the best Mexican food I'd ever had."

"The salsa bar here is packed with flavorful options."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers a buy 2 get 1 deal on select drinks.

2

Parking is free at the downtown garage nearby.

3

Tacos are priced at $2.90 each, offering great value.

02
Baja Bay Surf n Taco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot boasts a dog-friendly patio with ocean breeze and heaters. Enjoy homemade salsa that's fresh and chunky, perfect with fish tacos topped with slaw and crema. Affordable margaritas complete the casual, funky vibe.

Salsa comes homemade and blended on site with fresh, chunky ingredients packed with flavor. It pairs well with chips and fish tacos loaded with slaw and crema.

People are saying

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

"The fish tacos with spicy habanero salsa are the best I've ever had."

"It's a great casual spot with a surf vibe close to the beach."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday happens every week with special deals on tacos.

2

A 20% gratuity is added for parties of six or more.

3

The restaurant offers takeout options for those who prefer to eat elsewhere.

03
Don Lalos Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot offers clean indoor dining and a pet-friendly patio. It suits a busy weekday crowd with hearty meals. The red salsa is a standout addition to the menu.

Selection includes a variety of salsas as a nice addition. The red salsa stands out as spot on.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and affordable."

"I ate the best breakfast burrito of my life here."

"The salsa here is packed with amazing flavor."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open only on weekdays for breakfast and lunch.

2

There is clean indoor dining available.

3

Patio seating is also offered for guests.

04
De La Cruz Authentic Mexican Cuisine image 1

Hole-in-the-wall Mexican spot offers authentic Mexican food with generous portions and affordable prices. Enjoy a well-maintained salsa bar featuring fresh, house-made chips and salsa served free. Relax in a friendly atmosphere with comfortable booths and a clean, casual vibe.

Fresh chips come warm and pair well with traditional salsa made from a family recipe. Both chips and salsa are made in house and served free, offering a genuine taste experience.

People are saying

"I loved the breakfast tacos with chile verde."

"I found the burritos here to be the best in town."

"I thought the salsas here were the best in Ventura."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday specials are offered every week with $2 tacos.

2

The restaurant provides free chips and salsa with meals.

3

Parking is accessible and convenient for guests.

05
Pierpont Tacos image 1
Taco restaurant

Small taco spot offers crispy fish tacos with fresh, spicy salsas like habanero and tomatillo. Outdoor seating adds to the chill vibe typical of coastal California. Locals love the reasonable prices and easy parking.

Salsas come fresh and flavorful with a spicy kick. The tomatillo and habanero salsas stand out for their bold taste and balanced heat.

People are saying

"The fish tacos are fresh, crispy, and bursting with flavor."

"This burrito is authentic, well made, and bursting with flavor."

"The salsas here are amazing and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Pierpont Tacos is open until 8 PM on Sundays.

2

There is usually easy to find free street parking nearby.

3

Pierpont Tacos offers a buy-one-get-one deal on Fish Tacos every Tuesday.

06
Orozco's de Ventura image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious outdoor patio with live music sets a lively mood. Salsa is fresh and warm with a roasted flavor that is mild, paired perfectly with chips. Guests enjoy a homey vibe and ocean air, making it a unique dining spot with large wooden boards presentation.

Salsa comes fresh and warm, with a roasted flavor that is not spicy hot. The Green michelada with salsa verde offers a surprising twist, and the chips and salsa pair well together.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the amazing, authentic Mexican food here."

"The outdoor seating area is beautiful and spacious."

"The salsa here is served warm and it's delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure accommodation.

2

The restaurant offers outdoor seating for a pleasant dining experience.

3

Open mic events occur regularly, enhancing the dining atmosphere.

07
La Parrilla Yucatan Mexican Food image 1

Small space buzzes with friendly atmosphere and unique decor. Menu shines with a Yucatán twist on Mexican dishes. Chips and salsa offer a crunchy texture and flavors from Mayan recipes.

Freshly made chips and salsa stand out with a crunchy texture and flavors reminiscent of traditional Mayan recipes from the Yucatán.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is homemade, fresh, and flavorful."

"The service at this lunch spot is warm and incredibly attentive."

"The salsa and chips were freshly made and excellent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available, offering discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Portions are generous, making it a good value for the price.

3

Prices are reasonable, catering to budget-conscious diners.

08
Los Comales Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot buzzes with authentic cantina vibes and a lively salsa bar. Tacos shine with generous portions and bold red and green salsas. Cozy outdoor patio invites guests to enjoy flavorful breakfast burritos in a vibrant setting.

Generous portions come with a variety of salsas, including both red and green options that pack flavor. A salsa bar offers tasty choices that enhance tacos and even plain quesadillas.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican Food, especially the asada and pastor tacos, to be amazing."

"The salsas here are so flavorful, especially the green one."

"It's a cute place with a nice outdoor sitting area."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-minute wait for breakfast orders during peak hours.

2

Breakfast burritos cost around $18 for two.

3

Parking is easy and available near the restaurant.

09
Lalo’s Fast Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant serves authentic salsa with a spicy habanero option. Huge portions suit families enjoying futbol games on TVs. Menu blends casual dining with shrimp dishes and kids' snacks, creating a lively, family-friendly vibe.

Fresh salsa comes with chips and offers an authentic Mexican taste. Adding habanero boosts the flavor and heat.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so flavorful and well-seasoned."

"The service at this lunch spot is always top-notch and friendly."

"I found the salsa to be fresh and authentic."

Good to know

1

There is a warning about food poisoning at this location.

2

Payment is required before receiving food, which is unusual.

3

Expect to pay around $40 for six tacos and an order of flautas.

10
El Taco de Jerez image 1
Taco restaurant

Street-side taco stand buzzes with a casual vibe and affordable prices. Customers love the Al Pastor tacos and balanced salsas that enhance chicken and asada. Popular late-night spot with a simple setup and high-quality ingredients.

Salsas come well balanced and flavorful, complementing the chicken and asada dishes nicely. One salsa is served by default, with options to request more for extra sauciness.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

"I love the tripa burrito, especially when it's extra crispy."

"I thought their pastor tacos were a treat."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes on Mondays and is open daily from 5:30 PM to 11:00 PM.

2

There are two 10-minute parking spots right across the street.

3

Expect a line during peak hours, especially on weekends.

11
Carnitas El Rey image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican style architecture and colorful murals create a lively space with a salsa bar offering green and spicy salsas. Generous portions of authentic carnitas define the food, while the atmosphere stays pleasant and welcoming.

Plenty of Pico de Gallo, onions, cilantro, and salsas come with orders. A green salsa and a spicy salsa add flavor to tacos and tortas. A salsa bar exists but lacks to-go containers.

People are saying

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

"I believed these carnitas were the best I ever tasted."

"You have to try the carnitas; they're juicy and loaded with flavor."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available in the lot near the restaurant.

2

Condiments are only for in-house dining; they are not included with catering orders.

3

Plan ahead when ordering catering, as it may take time to prepare.

12
Casa De Soria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small family-owned spot serves authentic Mexican food with free chips and mild salsa that get refilled often. Loud, energetic vibe matches the huge margaritas and tasty dishes like birria tacos and refried beans. Cute decor adds charm to the lively atmosphere.

Free chips come with mild salsa and sometimes bean dip. Chips and salsa get refilled without asking.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the handmade corn tortillas."

"The food here is incredible and came in large portions."

"The salsa here is tasty, especially the rojo or verde."

Good to know

1

Casa De Soria serves a maximum of four drinks per person, not noted on the menu.

2

Prices for dishes are considered high, with some items like beñuelos priced at $8.

3

Expect a loud environment, especially during busy hours.

13
Corrales Mexican Food To Go image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot shines with authentic flavors and addictive salsa that has a perfect kick. Large burritos satisfy big appetites despite high prices. Casual vibe with outdoor seating means expect waits but enjoy traditional tastes.

Salsa has a perfect level of spice and a little kick that makes it very addictive. It pairs well with burritos and chips, adding a fantastic flavor to the usual Mexican dishes.

People are saying

"I thought the salsa was ridiculous, so good."

"These corn burritos are incredible and the reason I look forward to visiting."

"I loved sitting outside on the benches to eat."

Good to know

1

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

2

Outdoor seating is available, but there are no umbrellas for shade.

3

The base burrito costs $12, with additional charges for extras like guacamole.

14
Gloria's Kitchen Mexican Restaurant image 1

Original 60's decor creates a lively, festive vibe perfect for families enjoying all-day breakfast and lunch. Warm, crunchy chips come with homemade green salsa that has a nice zing. Noise is high, matching the energetic, cafeteria-like atmosphere.

Warm, crunchy chips come with tasty salsa that has some zing. The homemade green salsa stands out and is good enough to buy extra to take home.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious."

"The food here is authentic, based on family recipes."

"The breakfast burritos here are huge and super good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers during specific hours.

2

Breakfast and lunch are served all day, providing flexible dining options.

3

Menudo is available on weekends, a special dish for visitors to try.

15
Pete's Breakfast House image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Quaint breakfast spot with a retro diner vibe and lively, welcoming energy. Fresh salsa on the side adds a crisp contrast, while the habanero salsa offers a spicy kick. Plenty of dog-friendly patio seating makes outdoor dining comfortable and fun.

Fresh salsa comes on the side with meals, offering a crisp contrast. The habanero salsa delivers a spicy kick that balances heat and flavor well.

People are saying

"The breakfast staff here is super friendly and welcoming."

"The biscuits here are homemade and delicious."

"You've got to try the habanero salsa for an extra spicy kick."

Good to know

1

Pete's Breakfast House closes at 2:30 pm.

2

Expect a wait during busy hours; arriving early is recommended.

3

Parking can be an issue once the parking lot is full.

16
El Jarocho Seafood image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot shines with homemade salsas ranging from spicy to mild with sesame seeds. Rich seafood dishes bring authentic flavors. Lively, friendly vibe and outdoor seating offer a great view despite some discomfort.

Five homemade salsas offer a range of flavors from spicy to perfectly mild with sesame seeds. All salsas taste authentic and complement the food well.

People are saying

"The shrimp cocktail here is delicious and refreshing."

"The homemade salsas here taste fantastic and authentic."

"You should try the cocktails; they're delicious."

Good to know

1

Street parking is available, but it can be limited.

2

The restaurant is small, so expect a busy atmosphere.

3

Prices are reasonable and match what is listed online.

17
Taqueria El Tapatio #5 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy authentic Mexican tacos in a cozy taqueria with a lively crowd. Dive into a chip and salsa buffet offering mild to spicy options that stand out. Pay with cash and savor juicy burritos or shrimp cocktail combos for a full flavor experience.

A chip and salsa buffet lets you help yourself while dining in or taking out. The salsa ranges from mild to spicy, with some salsas standing out as the most delicious and spicy among the food.

People are saying

"I found the asada burrito so good and flavorful."

"This Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is perfectly creamy and not too sweet."

"I loved the complimentary chips and salsa bar."

Good to know

1

This place is cash only; an ATM is available on-site.

2

Expect to pay around $18 for a cocktail and two tacos.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

18
Karina's Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot serves amazing spicy salsa with chips that makes you lick your fingers. Burritos range from dry veggie to fresh carne asada and chili Verde. Atmosphere is relaxing but has no seating available.

Chips come with spicy salsa that makes you lick your fingers. The salsa stands out as amazing despite staff sometimes showing annoyance when asked for it.

People are saying

"You will lick your fingers after eating the chips with salsa."

"The tacos here are so attentive and friendly."

"I thought the carne asada burrito was the best tasting I ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long waits.

2

The restaurant offers takeout options for those who prefer to eat at home.

3

Parking is available on-site, but it can fill up quickly during dinner hours.

19
La Tapatia II image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open seating with an ocean view and a TV sets a relaxed tone. The salsa bar offers spicy and mild options that pair well with bold dishes like carne asada and tripa burritos. Portions are generous, capturing the spirit of Old Mexico.

Salsas come in superb and very spicy varieties with a mild option available. The salsa bar offers a good selection to enjoy with dishes like the breakfast burrito.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be pretty tasty and flavorful."

"I'd eat their Mexican food every single day if I lived here."

"I considered their tripa burritos the best."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located in a small strip mall with good parking.

2

The torta de milanesa costs $13.

3

The restaurant has a wide variety of dishes available.

20
Fresh Burrito Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy spot with white-washed Mexican decor offers a family-friendly vibe and comfy seating. Fresh chips come with generous salsa portions and guacamole, perfect for salsa lovers. Energetic music adds to the lively atmosphere while serving authentic Mexican dishes for meat lovers and vegetarians.

Fresh chips come with generous portions of salsa and guacamole. Different salsas arrive alongside burritos for tasting, though sometimes tortillas replace salsa as a side.

People are saying

"I had the best breakfast burrito of my life here."

"Their salsa is delicious and generously portioned."

"I had some of the best carne asada tacos I've ever eaten."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is available all day, offering a variety of options.

2

Expect generous portions and salsa with every meal.

3

The boxed tacos are a good deal at 10 street tacos for $20.

21
Cabo Beach Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with customizable dishes for all diets and a self-serve salsa bar featuring unique flavors like sour cream and bright green chile. Drink refills are easy with self-service convenience. Salsas vary from mild to spicy and come in eco-friendly paper cups.

A salsa bar offers unique options like sour cream salsa and bright green chile with good flavor. Salsas range from mild to very spicy, served in paper cups to reduce plastic waste, though some can be watery.

People are saying

"The tacos here are so flavorful and tasty."

"The tacos here are so flavorful and everyone loved them."

"The salsa had unique flavors, not too spicy."

Good to know

1

You can refill your own drinks, offering convenience and choice.

2

The restaurant offers many options for meat eaters and vegetarians.

3

Staff is willing to customize dishes based on dietary preferences.

22
Corrales Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating under trees offers a relaxing atmosphere with a chill vibe. Authentic Mexican breakfast burritos shine with flavorful salsa that is spicy and pairs well with shredded beef. Casual dining keeps the experience unpretentious and welcoming.

Salsa here is very flavorful and spicy, often served with chips. Red salsa pairs well with breakfast burritos and shredded beef burritos, adding much of their flavor.

People are saying

"I've been coming here for Mexican Food for 20 years."

"The breakfast burritos here are amazing and huge."

"I loved their flavorful and spicy salsa."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for takeout orders due to high demand.

2

Expect significant price increases, with two burritos now costing around $35.

3

A 4% credit card fee is added to all transactions.

23
Taqueria Ventura Doña Raquel image 1

Cozy spot shines with fish tacos and pastor tacos full of flavor. Green and red salsas pack a salty, spicy kick that lifts dishes like menudo and enchiladas. Outdoor seating adds to the friendly atmosphere loved by locals.

Green and red salsas come with a salty and spicy kick. Menudo includes a side of Chilli de arbol salsa and handmade tortillas. Verde enchiladas use green salsa as sauce but lack cheese.

People are saying

"I thought the fish tacos were out of this world."

"I thought the breakfast burrito was the best I ever had."

"I'd skip the enchiladas and try the tacos or tortas instead."

Good to know

1

They accept EBT payments for food purchases.

2

Parking is limited and can be difficult to find.

3

The patio is the only seating option available.

24
Johnny's Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot shines with authentic flavors and a nostalgic vibe. Salsa is fresh and homemade, with a bold black pepper kick. Limited parking makes takeout the best choice over dining in.

Salsa here stays fresh and homemade. It leans heavy on black pepper and sometimes has too much oregano.

People are saying

"I loved the crispy beef tacos with cold lettuce and hot meat."

"The food here is tasty and delicious."

"I love the classic hard shell shredded beef tacos here."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited on the street with no dedicated restaurant parking available.

2

The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor dining areas.

3

On Wednesdays, enjoy a special of six tacos for $10.

25
Margarita Villa image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor patio offers harbor views and live music on weekends. Salsa is thick and spicy, served with homemade chips. Drinks include affordable margaritas and mixed cocktails, matching the lively, energetic atmosphere.

Chips and salsa come as a homemade starter with about 10-12 chips, including some broken ones at the bottom. Salsa is thick and respectably spicy, standing out from the usual watery kind.

People are saying

"The harbor views here are beautiful and amazing."

"The live music here is great and adds to the atmosphere."

"The salsa here is nice and thick, not watery."

Good to know

1

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

2

Taco Tuesday features $5 tacos and live music starting at 6pm.

3

Margarita Monday offers margaritas at a special price.

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