34 Best Mexican Restaurants in El Monte

“This is a gem of a family run restaurant. The specialty is their house-made birria, served in a wide range of dishes. We've tried the quesa birria, the torta de birria, and the amazing birria ramen.The ramen was what drew us to this charming place, and is what keeps us coming back.They have a generous parking lot at the side of the building. They are also wheelchair and mobility scooter accessible.“

“# 129 Review for 2024 ***A Culinary Journey: Authenticity, Tradition, and Flavor Explosion at Tacos Los Palomos*** Overall 5 Stars***** If there's a sacred haven for taco enthusiasts, Tacos Los Palomos is it. Nestled in East LA, this gem embodies the essence of Mexican street food culture. As a self-proclaimed taco inspector, stumbling upon this treasure was a stroke of luck, unraveling a tapestry of flavors that transported me to the heart of culinary authenticity. What sets these taco trucks apart is their unwavering commitment to tradition. It's not just about tacos; it's a testament to preserving heritage, using time-honored recipes and seasonings that make each bite an homage to Mexican street cuisine. The sheer variety of flavors--Lengua, Buche, Tripa, Suadero, and Cueritos--each bursting with its own distinct taste, left an indelible mark on my taste buds. But let's talk about the salsa, specifically the chipotle; it deserves its own accolades. It's not just a condiment; it's a flavor symphony that elevates every taco to a divine experience. Yet, beyond the culinary prowess, these taco trucks serve as a conduit to nostalgia and cultural roots. They transcend the realm of mere dining; they're gateways to cherished memories and a taste of home. Each bite feels like a reunion with flavors that resonate with a deep sense of belonging. Tacos Los Palomos isn't just a taco truck; it's an emblem of community, tradition, and an odyssey through the rich tapestry of Mexican culinary heritage. In a world where authenticity often gets diluted, this place stands tall as a beacon of genuine flavors and cultural significance. In short, if you seek not just a meal but an expedition into the soul of Mexican street cuisine, Tacos Los Palomos deserves not just five stars but a standing ovation for keeping the flame of tradition alive in every savory taco they serve.“

“Decided to check out this place due to its high reviews. We found the owner or front person was very passionate about all the different styles of taco, burritos and nachos. We came in only desiring a snack, but then ending up ordering three meals due to all the choices that sounded so delicious. We really enjoyed their food, and they give you a great amount for the price. The ingredients were really good, and they give you lots of meat. I particularly loved the lengua and tripa (as they cooked it the way I liked it). The reason I give it one less star is the ambience. Its definitely a mom and pops restaurant and the lighting is very dim. Otherwise, the food was good and the prices are great! The owner is so awesome and provides good service too!“

“You wouldn't guess the historical significance of this restaurant from the outside, but Burritos La Palma is very significant in the survival of the wet burrito as a Chicano staple according to their profile on Eater.Regardless of their importance to Mexican/Angeleno cuisine, the service here is incredibly quick and the food is fantastic! Well worth a special trip if you're interested in the historical aspects, but also just a great burrito experience overall. Get the Platillo Especial if you don't know what you want, it's what they're known for.“

“Best super fries you can get! Just went in the drive through and the man that took my order was awsome made me laugh! He was very helpful and made my drive through experience fun made my night thank you so much for good food and good vibes this is why I always go to this location thank you so much. ?Vegetarian options: Bean and cheese burrito, super fries with no meat and much more“

“This a small neighborhood diner nestled in the El Monte Airport (SGV Airport). The staff is very friendly and helpful, and the food is just downright amazing. It's like your momma or grandma cooked it. I had the daily special, Chili Releno Omelet with Chili Verde sauce, home fries, and short stack pancakes, which were just perfect! It was crispy on the outside but fluffy and chewy on the inside. Wow. Handsdown the best pancakes I've ever had! Seriously. The coffee was also so good. We sat on the patio in the 40-degree morning chill, watching the small planes take off the runway. You could also see the majestic SGV mountains in the distance with snowcapped tops and such clear blue skies! It was just perfect on this day. So try the food and enjoy the atmosphere as well.“

“Love love love the cucadachaShrimp ....I'm sure I misspelled but all their shrimp are bomb and shrimp cocktails as well. My only complaint is Please UPDATE your online menu .....I ordered for my company and WOW we went off of the listed prices on menu on websiteDefinitely not updated , and increased by 2 to 3 dollars , I understand things are going up but then I as a customer should be able to count on the business to keep me updated on NEW PRICES , because your food is delicious ? people will still pay but kinda unfair to have that surprise when u get the final bill and it's 50 bucks more then calculated from online prices .Just a friendly suggestion, I love to refer people . Also small tacos not worth the price at all“

“First time here. Mom wanted green chicken enchiladas. Was not disappointed! Loaded with chicken and salsa....the chicken was moist and tender, green sauce was deeeeelish! The rice and beans were average. Decor was cute, Martin was very hospitable and nice...going back to see about the pozole!“

“Found this place on accident because my friend and I were looking for a quick bite! But now I come here every time I am in the area.I always get their tacos, especially their super and vampiro too. The one I can't ever get out of my mind was their special of the week --- the PORK BELLY TACO. omg it was to die for. you definitely need to catch it on the day they have it, they dont always have this. All their meats have so much flavor and so juicy. Their salsas always plentiful and deliciousI really enjoyed their mango passionfruit agua Fresca too, but they dont always have it either ):This establishment is small. It is only an order window with a parking lot and a few tables (less than 5). It is best to order to-go and bring it home or I usually can't wait and have to eat in the car!!must come back soon!“

“the food was delicious, they recommend that I try the asada burrito and they did not disappoint. They had offered rice to add to my burrito and the food came out delicious. Their sauces were aIso perfect for my burrito, i enjoyed all three. i love that you can see them make the food and they have great service. definitely will be visiting again!“

“We decided to go to Cafe Tizon today. The owner, Maria is our neighbor . Besides we were craving to try a new Mexican restaurant. My honey decided to try the menudo. I tried the chicken enchiladas.Both were really good. Also we purchased two dozen of the pork tamales too.We are coming back to try their costillo (sp?) and burritos.I would recommend this place.“

“Came here for dinner with friends people last weekend. Food was good service couldve been better. Im allergic to raspberries and blackberries thus I always tell the waiter waitress before I order anything. Tell me why I ordered a seafood dish and the place it on the other side Im sitting at a corner and lo and behold theres blackberries on top of it. So in my head I didnt think it was my order. Also of friend in the group has special dietary restrictions. She ordered their veggie rice it took forever to come. Every one got their tacos and ceviches ate it all before her rice even came out. She also ordered their fried cauliflower that never made it out. Waiter didnt mention anything until we asked for it a third time and said they were out of it since people rarely order it. I doubt Ill be coming back.“

“I hardly ever consider to even write a review but I knew this place deserved it because of the delicious tacos they served. I got 3 tacos one of each meat they offered, asada, pastor, and pollo. Super tasty, well seasoned, and the best part is you definitely get your money's worth of meat. The taco was loaded with the meat and I was basically full from the 3 tacos. The taco tortilla was a little too soft and soggy for my taste, I prefer a crispier and dryer (not super dry) taco shell. Give the tacos a try!“

“My wife and I came here on a Saturday night and there were maybe about 3 other tables occupied. There was live music which was great. We didn't see anyone working so we sat ourselves in a booth and patiently waited for someone to take our order. Ended up ordering the botana la palma and ceviche de pescado. About 5-10 minutes later we were informed there were no more fish for the ceviche, so we decided to go with shrimp instead. The service was a bit slow or non existent. Maybe because the restaurant was hosting a paint&sip on the other side and required the waitress' attention. Nonetheless the food was amazing! Seafood tasted fresh and full of flavor. Where it went a bit wrong was when we got our bill. I typically just double the tax for a 20% tip, but didn't realize until afterwards that 1. The tax was off and 2. We got the wrong bill. The botana la palma was $25 and ceviche i believe was around $19, but was charged $25 for sashimi de atun azul. The tax was only $2.49 so our tip was unfortunately lower than intended (sorry, I was tipsy). My fault for not checking, but I was in a rush. Overall, would definitely come back, but will double check my bill.“

“It was my first time visiting this little small gem ! I haven't had a torta Ahogada since I was in GDL. I must say it was pretty good . I will visit again and try something else. Customer service was good too . Champurrado was good too!“

“Best cafe de olla that I have ever tried!! If you’re in the El Monte area come try this place. Homemade, home cooked meal. Food is so fresh and homemade and delicious!!! They even have homemade salsas they give you to eat with your food. Don’t forget to try their homemade flan!! They make you feel like you’re at home. Small spot in a small shopping center. Well worth the drive if you don’t live to close.“

“This place make the best burrito of traditional family home make style for burrito...Me and my relatives always come here for dine in and take out also....My mom love the chicken burrito with everything inside of mixing plus no extra salt in it...For myself and my uncle we both love the beef burrito which include everything inside our burritos....The beef was hot n fresh when you eat with the hot chili style sauce....I have try the chicken burrito also and I love it....The owner of this place and worker in this restuarant is so friendly and awesome too...They alway greeting with friendly *hello* n smile ?....the place is neat and clean and alway busy too so depend on the time and the date you swing in for burrito...if you still undecided what to get or order to eat...The owner will recommend it some of their favorite dish too...I have try different dishes and I love it....They make the food like a real Mexican traditional culture of family home make style dish...I would give this restuarant 10 plus stars if the rating can scale it up....But they got my highest *5 stars* rate for it...If you have date or hang out with groups of family members and friends too...You all need to come this place for gathering and enjoy it too...Alway say that is happy good food and happy smile in our face.....heheheheParking: There is plenty of parking and street parking too....have a good meal and smile for life...Wheelchair accessibility: The back door and front door can have wheelchair access into it...bring your whole family to enjoy....“

“Amazing locale that serves amazing and top-notch quality food. Whether you finished school, work, or have an appetite for a delicious burger, Golden Ox Burgers is the perfect choice for you. Their workers are some of the best and nicest people I have ever met, treating you with respect and are accommodating to requests. A simple burger, fries, and drink is enough to keep you happy, but they won't judge if you want more. It's very clean and the atmosphere just takes you back while keeping it modern.Parking: They have resided customer parking for the early birds, as well as a whole parking lot and nearby empty streets for many customers to park and enjoy their food, or order take-out and head on out.Kid-friendliness: Well, I have been going here as a child and have always felt welcomed, very friendly indeed.“

“I LOVE EL TACO MAN!!! The food is to live for ! It’s delicious!!!! El Taco Man in El Monte is a culinary treasure that deserves every bit of praise it receives. From the moment you step inside, you're transported to a world of authentic Mexican flavors and friendly hospitality. The tostadas, in particular, are an absolute must-try, with their perfect balance of textures and exquisite taste. But don't stop there—explore the entire menu and savor a wide array of mouthwatering dishes. El Taco Man is a true delight for the senses and an experience that will leave you craving more. ?? I will forever eat there ! Yum yum yummy for your tummy“

“Great customer service from cashier clerk to the men on the counter. Great selection of food. From sandwiches to all your favorite beef and pork cuts. Great deals on food. Ramen birria, carnitas, menudo, and great salsas. The cGuaca salsa is to die for. The red sauce is good too. Establishment is very welcoming. Great music on the speakers. Thanks Leon for the delicious carne Asada. Hands down my favorite in El Monte.“

“We were looking for a late night snack, and this place hit the spot! I ordered the pastor and cabeza tacos for to go with no cilantro, onions only. My two tacos were wrapped and kept warm in a foil package.When I got back, I realized they gave me chorizo and buche, and a lot of cilantro. I removed the cilantro, not a big deal. The chorizo, at least I think it was chorizo, wasn't too dry and it was flavorful. There were also chunks of fat (?) in it. The buche was salty...and tasted like buche. I liked their salsas and felt it complemented the meats well.Unfortunately I didn't get either of the meats I wanted to try. At $2.50 per taco, I guess I'll just have to go back to order them again.“

“A few years ago, I went to El Perihuete and I loved it. I hadn't been in a while because it was in the South Gate area and that's a good 35-40 minutes from where I live. A few months ago, my coworkers ordered ceviche and it was soooo good! I asked about the place and have been going since. Just the other day, I was told that El Marisquero was actually El Perihuete. No way! Except this spot is in El Monte like 15 minutes from where I live. I have picked up ceviche for my family and I a few times since then. Everyone loves it. It's a whole little package too. It comes with a bottle of Tapatio, saltines, and an entire pack of tostadas. I'm not too fond of the tostadas so I usually just swing by the market about a block or two away to get different ones.The service is great. They are very attentive but I don't feel like anyone's breathing down my neck either. Nobody walks up mid-bite to ask any questions.The ambiance is super chill. The place is nicely decorated. It's just a great spot overall! I'll continue coming here on a somewhat regular basis. Especially while it's still kinda summertime. You've gotta check this place out!“

“This place is legit, I live in west covina and I order takeout at least once a week. (yes I drive all the way to El Monte lol)The food taste great, I have been to mexico and the food is the closest you can get in the SGV, more specifically those damn tortas!!!The service is good obviously sometimes they seem like they would rather be at home or whatever lmao but for me its no big deal. Parking is decent the seating is spacious and the food comes out in a reasonable amount of time.“

“I booked a table with my friend since it's almost my birthday and I chose this restaurant; I heard from other people that this restaurant is popular for the food and casual atmosphere.I was not disappointed at all!The waitresses were pleasant to the customers (my friend and I) and I appreciate them.I enjoyed the variety that was provided and you were able to build your own plate. For example, there were toppings they could choose from for their pozole and Menudo such as onions, cilantro, radishes and collard greens. Unfortunately, there was no lime in the bowl and I was disappointed.I added the sauce over the taquitos and they tasted delicious. The exception was the dryness of the taquitos. They lacked a lot of flavor and taste; There was no moisture after cooking or over-frying the chicken with the tortilla.Overall, this restaurant was pretty good and offered decent foods. The taquitos are dry but the rest of the food is delicious. The employees treated their clients very well as if we were part of the family and I consider them very cool while I felt comfortable.“

“Amazing local market that is bigger than it looks. The meats and produce are fresh and delicious. The fresh tortilla chips come in a resealable bag, which is a great idea, not that they will last long at my house. The staff was extremely friendly and helpful.“

“This place may not be fancy restaurant like some other places, but it doesn't need to be. The food is authentic Mexican food, and believe me, you will not be disappointed. They have pozole and menudo on the weekends and it is absolutely delicious. I've tried almost everything on the menu and have always left satisfied with their food, service and their reasonable prices. Oh, almost forgot, they have homemade tortillas. ???“

“A little restaurant over in El Monte. Came over for a carne asada but decided I'd love to try a sope so I went with a Jr carne asada burrito. Great choice as it was the size of a regular burrito. Like many burritos with all the fixings, it was a little uneven more meat on one end and more rice on the other. Not a big deal for me because all the ingredients were delicious. The carne asada was rich in flavor as it was perfectly seasoned. The sope had a bit too much lettuce, but the same delicious carne asada. I'm usually a green chili man, but the red one was so good. Pricing is about the same as most other places. I'd definitely recommend it as it hits the spot.“

“I finally found my go to place ! Keep up the good work I recommend your restaurant when people ask, So you know of a good Mexican restaurant around here ? I direct them to LAS ISLAS MARÍAS RESTAURANT ! The food was so good ! Closest Real Authentic Food ! So tasty ! Great atmosphere too ! Will definitely be back soon And again n again....... See you soon ! ! !“

“Delicious and authentic Mexican food. I had the Tomatillo chile with costillas. The meat was very tender, and although chile was a bit more spicy than I liked, the homemade corn tortillas really balanced it out. It was served with delicious rice and beans... I'm definitely going to come back to try other dishes on the menu. Give it a try... You won't be disappointed!!“

“This place had everything I asked for that most restaurants don’t.For starters they had papas rancheras (country potatoes) the way I like them small cubed no skin, and with actual vegetables you can see.They had queso fresco and a very large portion at that. A pretty hot, hot sauce (I’m the devil when it comes to hot sauce)I ordered all that and two eggs over easy with frijoles a cub of coffee and I’m so happy ?DownsideNO HANDMADE TORTILLAS AND NO MOLCAJETE SALSA ? $19.55 my total, should of been more like around $4 eggs + $4 potatoes and beans + $2 queso fresco and $3 coffee plus tax $15-$17 would of been more fair.Because of this I wouldn’t go out of my way to come back but certainly will if in the area, so I can try another dish.“

“The food is very delicious! Like when it was a nose! In Guadalajara! I ate drowned cake, steamed tacos, meat in its juice and a jericaya to top it off!! Everything is very rich.Food is Great just like Guadalajara! Back on the day! I ate drowned cake, steamed tacos, meat in its juice and a jericaya! I really recommend it!“

“Must try if you’ve never been here. Amazing food. If you’re looking for Authentic Mexican this is the place to visit. Just like your Grandma’s or Mom’s favorite dish. Sauces and chilies are on point. If I could rate this higher I would give this a 10/10.“

“All ways looking for a good breakfast burrito. Have to say Brother breakfast burrito are good. I had bacon and sausage burrito, the prefect amount of meats, potatoes , egg was not over cook . All good .This is a small family restaurant. Breakfast and dinner are all good . Prices are far .Great Service.“

“I consider myself a bit of a carne asada burrito connoisseur, and I can say without hesitation that this is one of the best I have ever had. The tortilla was fresh, and the meat was flavorful with absolutely zero gristle. I only wish this place was closer to my house.“