30 Best Mexican Restaurants near Isla Vista

“Excellent authentic Mexican food served quickly by a very friendly staff.“

“my friends and i were walking down IV trying to find something and we hit the jackpot with this place!
the owners are very friendly and even gave us lollipops once we were leaving. This has to be the best mangonada I ever had and I’m glad that this hidden gem is here. We will be back for more!“

“You have to try the ranchero breakfast burrito!! It was sooo good I had to go back the next day and get it again before leaving home to Sacramento! I would literally drive all the way back to Santa Barbara just to get another one!!“

“My review is from the period 1999-2002. Simply the BEST place to get burritos or nachos in all of USA. This is where I tried my first ever burrito, first quesadilla and first nachos. I had just joined UCSB as a new graduate student and lived at Goleta/Isla Vista (Abrego Rd?).

Prices today (in 2025) seem a tad high though. Maybe it's the impact of fair labor wages in California. Hope it's worth every $

Amazing fresh food and very enthusiastic crew. I think google didn't exist then or Google maps but had to add this while feeling nostalgic today!“

“Maiz Picante catered our wedding recently and did a phenomenal job! Not only were they professional, but the food was outstanding. We got nonstop praises about the food and service. I will definitely be using them again when we have another event. Otherwise, I try and support them whenever we are in town. They are friendly, professional, and know their food!“

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“muy buena comida y lo que sorprende mucho es que demuestran una humildad muy fina hacia los clientes y eso es de tener valores educacion y liderazgo....“

“Despite my last not so great visit in March I stopped in with some friends to give it another try. Food was fresh and delicious, service was fantastic. Happy surprise after the horrible service in March! Thank you!“

“good portions in the tacos. very tasty and fast service. the line seems overwhelming at first but moves fast. Will definitely be back, when in the area.“

“Outstanding! I can’t say enough about this place first time here on our travels Great Food Great Service we even met the owner and he took the time to chat with us & gave us some history on the restaurant & it’s excellent menudo only regret…. Is that it wasn’t closer to us This place is a must when in Santa Barbara, Ca.“

“Excelente servicio el manager Rodrigo te hace sentir en casa 🏠 Jesse y Brenda me recomendaron la margarita de mango deliciosa 😋 💯 recomendado 🏆🎗️“

“We went to happy our at Little Alex's yesterday and were very happy with the whole experience. Very reasonable prices, good happy hour food and drink options, large beer selection compared to similar places, tasty salsas and bean dip, and a nice dog-friendly patio that doesn't face a busy street. Multiple vegetarian-friendly options.“

“You’re missing the best breakfast in town. The owner is an expert barista. I had an almond latte with cinnamon and the scramble with nopales (opuntia cactus) and California chiles (not spicy). Also try horchata with a shot of espresso for lunch.

The portion was enormous and the flavors were fresh and exciting! The potatoes were so crispy. I used to frequent this restaurant years ago for their healthy soups. I’m so pleased that this is now a woman-owned local restaurant.

This is a must visit for specialty Mexican breakfasts and coffee brews. Also a great spot for gluten-free options.

Dietary restrictions: Gluten-free“

“Wonderful and delicious! We came by earlier today, I had Huevos Rancheros with Asada for the first time ever and my partner had Chilaquiles. It was totally tastyyyy! (They did accidentally pit my Asada on his plate instead tho lol its ok). Glad I got to experience it on my visit, thanks so much for having us.“

“We have we our company holiday lunch the attention was excellent as the service all the staff is super friendly el señor the Manager Marciano is awesome 👏 Felipe as well I highly recommended this place and the food and drinks just awesome 👏👏👏👏was a great time“

“Exquisito y excelente“

“First Time customer today 04/25/2025 and after trying 5 different Mexican restaurants in 9 months in Santa Barbara I have now found PERFECTION!!!
This place is unbelievable on every level in quality, taste & customer service. From my first bite of a carne asada burrito (rice, cheese cilantro & onions added) to the last each bite continued being better than the last. Do yourself a favor and don't pass up the opportunity to taste the best Mexican food in Santa Barbara because you will not be disappointed...Treat Yourself!!!“

“Good food. Good service. Authentic. Kind. Gracious.“

“This is the absolute best place for Mexican food in Goleta. I have been coming here my entire life. The food is simple and delicious. It’s family owned and operated and they’re so so kind. If you want a good quick meal at a great price with excellent people, come to De Valle.

Vegetarian options: You can ask for anything without meat, very flexible.“

“Awesome little Taco shop! The Cheese Enchalada was amazing and a must try! Get the carnitas on whatever you order, it was the best choice! Also the Three Crispy Tacos are an awesome deal! The portions are huge and delicious, Service is friendly, atmosphere is a little bare minimum. Definitely recommend!“

“Attention to detail and fresh look“

“I would definitely recommend Mayos Taqueria Carniceria. Food is delicious authentic salsas sides as well. Botanas available Chicaron Buches Carnitas typed with Onion Tomatoes Cilantro pickled Jalapeños. Also Fresh Meat Vegetables Spices Cheese Seafood also. Try it out you won't be disappointed. Also A Regional Guadalajara Torta Ahogada is served which is very tasty. Thank You Much From Johnny Huerta J.R Y Familia.“

“The past few times I have eaten at Rudy's, the food was not hot ! I picked up a combo plate, the enchilada was cold, and the cheese was unmelted. Also , the taco in the box was unwrapped on the rice and beans, and the taco was a mess just fell apart . Wrap the taco and leave it out of the box.
Even the 3 min drive with a hard shell taco out of the box can be pushing it . Wrap the Taco ?‍♂️“

“Great food here for a reasonable price. Portions are great sized.“

“Warm and inviting staff, nice ambiance, delicious Mexican food. The owner is also very kind & welcoming!!! Great stopping point when on-the-go as they are fast and courteous, or dine-in of course as well.“

“Please help local businesses. El Rincon Bohemio is Open for take out orders!! Weekdays 11am-8pm and weekends 8am-8pm!“

“I had a presentation in town and ordered lunch for the group, El Sitio came highly recommended. The food was a huge hit! They created a delicious build-your-own taco platter that everyone enjoyed. They were very patient with me while ordering, as I'm not the strongest Spanish speaker. In the end I got exactly what I wanted. Thank you!“

“Been in Goleta for a long time. Great place for breakfast. Servers are fun and friendly.“

“Great service! Our waitress was attentive and super sweet! Highly recommended!“

“Очень вкусно!!!! Дружелюбный персонал. I love it❤️“