Restaurantji's guide to Santa Ana's top Mexican dining experiences. Discover great Mexican food with Chilaquiles, Carne Asada, Al Pastor Taco, and more in town.
“Wow! The food here was great authentic Mexican food. We tried mulitas, tacos, burritos and the sopes. Asada was the best because they use prime beef. Their habanero salsa was actually spicy and was my favorite, but they also have two milder ones for those who can’t handle spice as well. The service here was amazing and the owners are so sweet. They also have 4 TVs and a juke box for plenty of entertainment.“
“One of the best tacos nearby, especially a great price. About $1.50 for your basic meats, you can definitely smell the truck as your driving by. You can also call in the orders, makes it fast, since it does get busy. I have there # saved, my go to spot ??“
“The food is good overall I think the Al Pastor was the best with Asada being second. I would give this spot a 4.3. About $3.50 per taco but the quality is there. I have been to Tijuana more than times than I can count. I would say it’s a good place to go for that style here in Santa Ana. I came in with low expectations but they proved me wrong. I recommend sticking to the Al pastor tacos con todo. Also atmosphere is nice definitely more modern than your typical taco spot.“
“Food is great and salsa is perfect just like in GDL!! Customer service could improve and adding a menu with prices would be helpful. The last 2 times I was there Ingot quite a lot of food it came to be about $80 seemed right, second time Inonly got 1 torta and 1 order of tacos dorados with carnitas on top and a jericalla;they charged $35! I thought it was $25 which seemed little high but then I realized I was charged $35. So, I would go back but this time I’ll be asking how much is everything to avoid being overcharged. Maybe regulars know their prices, but not all of us know. Also, note they only take cash.I remember I used to buy from they when they first started with their truck and the son of the owner was really young and was very nice. Now time has passed and I guess business is great but he’s whole attitude has changed towards costumers. Not hating simply sharing my experience.“
“tacos dorados very good. spicy green salsa. enjoyed ensenada fish and also shrimp taco as well. taco governador was terrible. not griddled enough, cheese not melted. very very sad version of this type of taco that i usually love. they were getting pretty overwhelmed and confused with the orders even though it wasn't super crowded. food took a long time.“
“First time here, visiting OC on vacation and heard that I have to try the Mexican food in SoCal. I’m from Oklahoma, so I have had some good authentic Mexican food. Theirs was otherworldly. The waitress was SO sweet and was giggling and dancing to the music playing genuinely having a good time. It was such a fun atmosphere.Tried the steak and shrimp. I have only had steaks this tender at some of the fine dining spots I’ve been to. So much flavor and so different from what I can get in Oklahoma.If you are thinking about trying this place, PLEASE DO! It’s kind of hidden away but out of the few places I had Mexican food at on my visit, this one was by far the best.It is in my cards down the road to be back in Santa Ana (what a lovely city) more permanently and when that time comes I will frequent this spot!“
“The mole here is EXCELLENT!!! Service is good and prices are fair. Have had other stuff too- everything is great and tastes homemade but my go to main dish is the mole- I love both kinds and they served me a little of both on same dish- that was really cool of them to do.“
“At La Torta Loca, the exceptional customer service truly stole the show during my visit. From the owner's generous gesture of offering a complimentary fruity water to the unparalleled care and attention given to both me and my dog, every moment was marked by genuine warmth and hospitality. And when a fellow diner raved about her tacos, it only reinforced the extraordinary level of service that sets this place apart. Without a doubt, I wholeheartedly recommend La Torta Loca for an unforgettable dining experience centered around impeccable customer care. En La Torta Loca, el servicio al cliente excepcional realmente se robó el espectáculo durante mi visita. Desde el generoso gesto del dueño de ofrecer un agua de frutas de cortesía hasta el cuidado y atención inigualables dados tanto a mí como a mi perro, cada momento estuvo marcado por una calidez y hospitalidad genuinas. Y cuando una compañera comensal elogió sus tacos, solo reforzó el extraordinario nivel de servicio que distingue a este lugar. Sin lugar a dudas, recomiendo La Torta Loca de todo corazón para una experiencia gastronómica inolvidable centrada en un cuidado al cliente impecable.“
“Super friendly and welcoming as soon as we walked in, talked about the food and got to know staff. The recipe they used to make my meal was from the 50s or 60s, very authentic. Felt like it was home made. The waitress was attentive as well. The Chile relleno “
“What better place to go to eat some tasty breaded fish tacos, very deliciousOoos, uff and the golden aguachile taco my favorite!!! This place is very clean, the people who are charging are super friendly, very nice. Thank you for preparing such delicious food for the cooks!???????“
“Everything was amazing! Lengua was soft, tender, and juicy. Tortillas were just right. Carne asada was soft and tender. Been trying to find a go to spot that has good lengua since moving to Orange & I'll be coming back every time I crave lengua tacos.“
“Went here on a random weekday, date night. The music was good, it seemed to have a great weekend bar vibe. But I am here to tell y'all, the food. The food was on a other level, not only was it pretty but it was delicious! Definitely coming back on a weekend!“
“Jose was very helpful and attentive to all of us at the bar during the rush. He ensured that we were good and informed on everything in the bar. I recommend people to come in and try the food and drinks. Lastly, it is very close to work and home, making it a big convenience.“
“Great place for authentic Mexican food. Family friendly, fast and respectful owners...Vegetarian options: They have tacos of potato that are amazing and bean tacos aswell...Parking: There's always parkingWheelchair accessibility: All stores are wheelchair welcome“
“All amazing at Taco Pronto. Jaime Nancy and Daniella all gave me excellent service. My shrimp burrito was fulfilling , spicy, and easy to eat. Highly well done food for a quick lunch.They also treated me to a free carnita, but that’s because I’m charismatic ?“
“We were there on a Tuesday night as a break from Disneyland. This place is the gem of Santa Anna we had the cauliflower and Brussel sprout appetizer. We then had the taco Tuesday tacos. We finished up with carrot cake.I will be back here in a flash. Everything was absolutely delicious from start to finish. Not to be missed if you were visiting Disneyland, and want to break.“
“Wow, finally...one of the more authentic Mexican restaurants in the area.I have to admit, I have been here a few times now and each time it gets better.If you have ever been anywhere near Apatzingan you would know what I am talking about.I have tried the Uchepo, Pozole, Caldo de Pollo, tacos, sopes, and Birria de chivo. I have to say I have enjoyed all especially the pozole and caldo de pollo.The service is great, each time I have gone, I have had a different waitress and each one is super attentive and have had a great personality and explain everything well about the food if you have any questions.Also, we have been greeted by the owner to insure how the food and service was. Greatly appreciated.I have recommend this to a few close friends and for sure will be coming back to try a few more things on the menu like menudo, costilla, mojarra, etc.“
“The place is kind of hidden and customer service is friendly. I’m Hispanic and I always had pan dulce as a child but then I went vegan over 4 years ago and wasn’t able to enjoy it with my family anymore until I found this place! Very fluffy conchas and sweet orejitas they’re all really delicious. A little bit expensive and limited hours but I do recommend giving this place a shot :)“
“Come here for their aqua frescas!!! :D Got a bunch of tacos (asada, pollo, carnitas, cabeza, pastor, chorizo) and a side of Spanish rice. Tacos were alright sizes for one of the few places that have 99 cents taco Tuesday still. Gave me a lot of rice on the side. Food was just normal. Jamaica aqua fresca - surprisingly super fresh and bomb - probably one of the best around! Was even better than most jamaica drink I tried in Mexico. Young girl that worked there was super nice and friendly.“
“Definitely no doubt, Carnitas Don Julian are the best tasting carnitas I’ve ever eaten. You can compare these to any others in Orange County and/or areas around, I guarantee every time we go, they always have the same delicious taste, always satisfying for the whole family. The owner and employees always nice and friendly. Thank you Don Julian!!“
“Ordered some shrimp empanadas and the Tostada Caliente. I wasn't prepared for the journey my tongue was about to embark on upon taking a bite into that empanada. The empanada was so good that it made me forgive everyone that's ever wronged me. The tostada caliente was so flavorful, I wasn't even prepared for it. I gave some to my neighbor, we've been fighting for years. But after sharing some of this food with him, we're now pals. We're supposed to grill next Saturday. All jokes aside, food is great, customer service is excellent. And I highly recommend.“
“This is what I think of a hole in the wall joint that has great food at very reasonable prices. I ordered two asada and two cabeza (beef cheek) to go. Once I got home and opened the package, the four tacos could have easily been double the amount on many other taco joints. Started with asada taco and it was good but the cabeza was seriously outstandingly tender and flavorful with the right amount of fat. It is a must try place. I will definitely return and try other items in the menu. You know it is a great place when the room was packed at four in the morning and a line standing to place orders“
“The food here is always good. The beef tacos al vapor are my go to! Their hot salsa is phenomenal!Vegetarian options: There are a few vegetarian options here but they are amazing choices. The torta de chile relleno and tacos al vapor the frijoles are highly recommended.“
“Very tasty burritos. I’m a relatively big eater and two were enough for me. The chicharron (pork rind) was very similar to what my most excellent mom used to cook. The bean and cheese was satisfying. The clerk also recommended aguas frescas from some place called Jugos Acapulco about 5mi away and the guava juice there is AMAZING. We ate our burritos in the little tables outside of that place. I would recommend the combo. Highly.“
“Me and a friend were looking for a late night eats, we were blown away by the quality for it being a late night menu. There was music by a dj playing a great playlist of early 2000s and current songs. The drinks did not disappoint either. I would recommend the sliders, the cilantro tortilla tacos, and the nachos. This all can not go with out mentioning the service, they were on top of everything and food came out fast. I am definitely recommending this place to family and friends for the food and atmosphere.“
“The fajitas were a great price and were absolutely amazing! Perfect portion size. I ordered to go and it was ready on time and even came with chips and sauce. Tortillas, Beans and rice were great. Super happy I tried this spot. Don’t sleep on Restaurant Mary! Can’t wait to order again soon“
“Great consistent food quality at reasonable prices. The pico de gallo is ridiculously good. The grilled fish burrito is my favorite.The place can get very busy during peak times around lunch and dinner. I usually do takeout and get in and out quickly.“
“My mom really likes this place, so she wanted to eat here for her birthday. She ordered the chicken enchiladas, my wife chose the shrimp cocktail, my boys got the quesadilla with fries, and I got the molcajete Costa Azul. I swapped out the carne asada for more chicken. My molcajete was delicious, and everyone else enjoyed their food. The service was great.Be prepared for loud music or bad karaoke singers. You won't get much of a conversation with people across the table from you. Maybe it's not as loud during the week or before dinner.“
“This place needs new Employees, the one's there are tired ? ? bored not happy and right in the middle of them taking your order they'll stop and hug who ever come thru their employee only door.Hire new people please... and don't let this crew trained them.“
“Found this place by looking for a Colimas (went to one in Oceanside). This place was great! Our new fave. Very clean, attentive servers. I have food sensitivities and ordered food more plain. Accommodated me in such a nice and friendly way. Brought all of the sides for the table without us asking. Salsa, sour cream, limes. Chips were thick and crunchy. We had Chile relleno, tacos, shrimp quesadillas, carne asada burrito (wet), Jamaica, horchata. Everything delicious!“
“Highly recommend this whole in the wall place. Purchased the birria tacos ? and quesobirria they both were great the tortillas are made on the spot they are very fullfilling.. parking is probably the only issue but plenty of it on flower St. And just walk to location. Definitely will be back.“
“Great fish tacos! Very reminiscent of how we make them ourselves at home - with love.Not usually a big fan of vegetarian food, but their vegetarian tamales are BOMB. If it's not super busy, they grill the tamales to finish them off so you get a crispy/crunchy exterior - what a texture. The corn flour itself is not wet and dense like most places but a little crumbly - perfection. We got them naked without all the "preparation" add-ons on top (which looked a bit too Americanized to me).Vegetarian options: Vegetarian tamales with cheese“
“Cheap and delicious!!! Wow huge portions. So amazing. I got two fish tacos. ???Only ate one because they were so large and so stuffed!!! The sauce was amazing, wow. I was so impressed. And it was so cheap! It’s rare to find a meal for less than $10 nowadays and you can definitely get that here. They also have special Cali sauce they offer and that was delicious as well. Cute little spot. Love it. Amazing. ???“
“We have used La Carreta for two birthday parties and my friend used them for his wedding. Absolutely love their tacos and everything they have to offer. Can't wait for the next opportunity to use them to cater an event.Kid-friendliness: Catering / Bday Party: My toddler loves the potato tacos, quesadilla and the rice and bean.“
“Fantastic n authentic Mexican food restaurant with awesome combination meals , soups, burritos, enchiladas, omelettes, iced of hot coffee so tasty n delicious , and a great husband n wife are the owners who are committed to excellent service n quality food.“
“5 star cleaning 5 star attention and service 4 star food 5 star speed No discrimination even though I was dressed after work it was a good dinner even though the name Gavilan doesn't really sound very Mexican. I had a bad expectation, however these guys showed me that fast food service can also deliver excellent service and decent food. I thank the team for not making a dog face and not judging me because I was dressed after work. Great experience, I will definitely try more options again.“
“Went to this place after a family function and the food was amazing. Enchiladas were so good. The servers were always checking in despite it being busy. Great service and I loved the pineapple margaritas they had! Loved the little hacienda type decor. Amazing place.“
“One of the best authentic southern Mexican food in OC. I’m a big fan of breakfast and they prepare one of best the chilaquiles in OC. Also, the menu has a lot option from Oaxaca. Tlayudas are amazing and they taste pretty similar to Oaxaca tlayuda. Do not forget to try Tres Leches Cake and Cafe de olla.“
“Mexican food culture at its finest! ? Took me almost a whole year for everything to align for me to be here and experience the magic of "Café Cultura." A coffee house like no other. Everything from the decor, service, and food was amazingly good! I dare say the golden staple of what a coffee ☕️ house should be like. If you're looking for mediocre, go to Starbucks (oops! Sorry, not sorry) Thank you, guys, we truly enjoyed everything. ?“
“Guy taking orders super nice, Food is bomb ?? And it doesnt seem expensive to me. Tostada de Ceviche de pescado (its literally enough for 2 topped off tostadas) only 7$ . thats cheap to me . Tacos ensenada de pescado fire ? This my lil sunday spot“
“What can I say about this place I been coming here 4the last past 10 years sometimes twice a day best food quality in the Orange County great taste great service Cynthia and Nina are the best meseras polite and friendly I highly recommend this place if your looking for real and authentic Mexican place“
“We were at a taco truck last night and this truck was next to it and we said let's try a little something So glad we did, the owner Oscar was super nice, even tho he was almost closed he still served us. We ordered tostada de camaron al Limon (I think it's called) super good. Thought it was a little pricey compared to the other mariscos trucks, but when I saw the amount he served and the taste so worth the price. Definitely will come back!!!“
“Really superb Oaxacan cuisine and seafood at very reasonable prices. We had the banana leaf mole tamale, the house special sea bass, and Tlayuda. All were exceptional.One thing to note: the restaurant name has been removed, so it no longer says, "El Mestizo" on the side of the building. Just "Restaurant", which is behind a tree. This place is hard to spot but worth the effort.p.s. They have menus in English available.“
“Straight to business, the absolute best seafood truck I've been to. Let's rephrase that. The best seafood I've had this side of the border! My visits consist of $80 on me alone . I always order agua chiles, scallops, and a fish ceviche tostada to start with. I've been coming to this truck for over 15 years! Yeah it's a food truck and it's outdoor, standing room only. But these dudes are always in a good mood! Friendly service and attitudes are the normal here! I could really keep going and write 2 pages but it's nothing to what you'll taste yourself. Here's to 15 more years of great seafood!“
“Amazing Food trust!!! Y'all seriously will not be disappointed I got Al Pastor tacos, 4 enchiladas, 4 Taquitos w/ rice and beans. Oh my god was it Divine ate all 3 plates and I feel good right now but then again I eat a lot so this place being affordable to buy this much is seriously a deal winner for me. Great service they asked if I wanted a lot of side and toppings on my lunches and it was great.“
“The food has changed over the years. It is not as good as it used to. The chorizo sorta had a cut in half piece of chorizo. Now it's like grounded meat and they put so much mayo and sour cream that it tasted pretty bad. I didnt take pictures but it was a messy ordeal.“
“Always a treat to swing by Mos. They have been here for years and I grew up eating this. This is before the waba's and the flame broilers. It's like that, but with a Mexican flair as their hot sauce is tapatio. I always enjoy a beef bowl with half chicken added (because gains) with green onions. I always enjoy the tender flavorful meats and the fluffy white rice. This is a go to for my family as well and everyone that I bring here always likes it. Will continue to come here as long as they are around and recommend anyone in the area to give them a try. They are right behind the DMV and have two entrances one on grand and one on the street right behind it. Remember to always bring cash as it is a Cash Only restaurant!“
“If you want to finally try some other meats on a taco menu besides Al pastor, this is the right place. Try the suadero, cabeza, and lengua for three ultra-tender and ultra-meaty tacos. Hard to find better tacos for only $2. Handmade tortillas for 50c extra.“
“HIJO DE SU PTA MDRE, estos si son tacos de birria!!! The only place that I had for birria was either with my mother in law or in LA but these right here are the best I have tried in OC!! I ordered quesabirria which is a birria taco with cheese on a maiz tortilla and a consomé with carne and damn both really hit the spot!! For sure it's my new favorite Birrieria.“
“Tacompadre in Santa Ana is a total winner! Let me tell you, their quesabirria tacos are the stuff dreams are made of. The birria is melt-in-your-mouth delicious, and they don't skimp on the filling. But the real star is the crunchy flour tortilla. It's the perfect balance of texture to the juicy goodness inside.Looking for something a little different? The suadero alambre is a must-try. The suadero (skirt steak) is cooked to perfection, and the whole thing is overflowing with melty cheese. They don't forget the veggies either, which adds a nice freshness to the dish.And to top it all off, don't miss the chocoflan. It's the perfect ending to a fantastic meal. Creamy chocolate meets decadent flan in this delightful dessert.Overall, Tacompadre is a hidden gem in Santa Ana. Amazing food, friendly service, and a great atmosphere. I'll definitely be back!“