50 Best Mexican Restaurants near Laguna Woods

“I was on a business trip and craving Mexican food. This restaurant came up in my Browder and I could walk to it from my hotel.The menu was extensive. I got the rolled tacos with a side of beans and rice. The food came out quickly and I ate at the location. I was so happy. Authentic taqueria taste. The best rice I've had (it had vegetables mixed in) and the beans were so creamy and delicious.The staff members were friendly and welcoming. And, the restaurant was very clean. Will definitely go back next time I'm in town. The shrimp tacos were highly recommended.“

“Excellent atmosphere, from the moment you arrive you feel the warmth of a working family, they serve you very well, they are always making sure you are well, the food is very delicious and good presentation and portions, the chilaquiles I ordered were delicious, the breads they have They are very good, the decoration is very original and relaxing! Overall a very good experience, looking forward to returning again. Alex and Martin thank you very much...“

“Fantastic meal as always!! It was cool and breezy last night but we opted to reserve a table on the patio which is much quieter than inside. The wind screen and heat lamps create a surprisingly cozy and comfortable space. Excellent food & service!!“

“Shrimp tacos were our favorite. Also, we really like the Beria and the fried fish We also loved the nachos and even better was the drink of the day which was pineapple Fresca so, so good. Service was very good. I think our server was Alicia, but I could have the name wrong. She was a young girl,and she was very wonderful and she had her hair in a bun. The only thing that could possibly improve is having may be a little less spicy salsa or pico for the people who don’t like too much spice. Wonderful seafood, can’t wait to try more dishes.“

“The food is very yummy! We got the birria & shrimp tacos which have great flavor and broth in the meat.Would love to try the birria ramen & pretty much everything on their menu, it all looked so good. I also enjoyed that they seem to just specialize in the main staples you’d like to see at a Mexican restaurant and their menu wasn’t too expansive.Great atmosphere and service too!“

“Overall experience was great- our waiter was not overly attentive once he found out we would not be drinking and felt frustrated that we were not ready to order immediately once our final party member arrived. The food was really good and it was a bit noisy initially but quieted a bit as dinner went on.“

“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!“

“Great food! Super nice staff and very accommodating! We have a large and intimidating service dog, and they turned on heaters and gave us a private area on the patio! Staff made sure our entire party K9 included were enjoying themselves! Try the octopus taco!!!“

“OC Local is a big, clean, beautiful place to have fun and relax. Families, couples, singles, groups, and dogs are all welcome here. They have something for everyone!Troy and Patrick run the place, and they are wonderful people. Even when they're busy, they take the time to greet everyone personally.Good food and great drinks. The tacos and nachos are my go-to choices for food. They have so many beers on tap that is hard to pick a favorite.“

“This is our 3rd visit. We took a friend, she was very impressed! Definitely in our top 10 spots. The plates and presentations are unique. A real find for our area! Always memorable, staff is kind and well versed in presentations and ingredients.“

“Very pricey Mexican food, but worth every penny. A party of 4: after delicious chips, black bean dip, guacamole n salsa, one had a combo plate with custom selections, another had short rib enchiladas, and two of us had Chile Verde. Everyone loved the meal. Probably as good or better Chile Verde as I've ever eaten n we have spent a lot of time in Mexico for our entire adult lives. A quality experience all around.Kid-friendliness: Our 5th wheel was a 10 yr old who liked the rice and his carne asada taco very much. Wait staff catered to him n made him feel special.“

“I ate at Aria Kitchen for the fist time, while on a business trip. The bartender was very welcoming and engaging with the customers. She also made an excellent Cadillac margarita. The food was very good. I highly recommend this place. Nice atmosphere, great service, and great food.“

“Excellent food reasonable pricing, consistent great service. Portions are large. Atmosphere is clean friendly warm not too loud. Receptionist are friendly. Waiters are very attentive. We drive a bit from Irvine to get to his restaurant but it is well worth the drive as the food is really spectacular, my husband loves their mole dish and I love their chili relleno. My mouth is watering writing this review. Thank you El Adobe for being such a high quality restaurant with great Mexican food,“

“We just ate there on our trip back home. Super sweet & best customer service. There's something for everyone. Our little one got chicken tenders while the rest of us got breakfast burritos (using the build-your own menu). Everyone was happy!“

“Got the 3 pack for $13 - tried the potato, chicken, and beef. Honestly, more than I expected. Great flavor throughout, from the topping to the meat inside and held up well when taking it to go. Would definitely suggest if you want something quick and unique for Spectrum.“

“You want to try the best roast chicken...come here, the Super package includes 1 chicken, they give you tortillas, Jamaican water, beans, rice and corn and salsa.Inside, I recommend the cesina taco...very delicious, just one detail, don't let a dark-haired lady serve you, because she has a very ugly character, she doesn't know how to treat people, on the other hand, the girl who charges you for the liquor is Super friendly and always with a smile. I recommend the place on weekends.“

“Go to Franco's for happy hour. You'll get a decent margarita for $7 dollars and some tasty apps.m at decent prices. I am a sucker for a delicious large dinner plate. I always get the Tampiqueña. It takes me forever to finish my dinner but I enjoy every bite. The service is always prompt and friendly. It can get loud later on in the day which is why I enjoy going in before 5pm.“

“This turned out to be a great find. Everyone loved their food. It is clearly made with care and the recipes are delicious. Good portions at reasonable prices.They have a good size patio area as well as plenty of indoor space. We loved the fun repurposed seating like church pews and theater seats.Special shout out to a seriously spicy bloody Mary.My wife only at half her breakfast burrito as it was quite large. She loved the roasted green salsa.Myself and others enjoyed their take on shrimp and grits. Such a great combination of flavors.Not that many people there for Sunday brunch time which was surprising as so many people wait in line for brunch at other places not nearly as good.Wheelchair accessibility: No stairs, just curb at sidewalk“

“Such a fun atmosphere and excellent food! Our server Gabriel was friendly and helpful. He recommended the chile relleno and the Branzino and both were uniquely delicious. We also ordered the octopus ceviche for an appetizer and it was tender with incredible flavor. We also shared their homemade soft serve ice cream which was the best I’ve had. We shared this between 4 people and it was plenty of food. We are full, happy, and can’t wait to come back! Highly recommend if you want a great meal in a beautiful place!“

“Sandwiches were fabulous, American Italian themed, I had the Pastrami, was delicious. The beer selection is excellent, and the wines were tasty too! We're planning to stop for breakfast, will update this list once we've tried it. ?“

“This is the best burger in Orange County! The people working here are genuinely kind and helpful.The location isn't great but they should not deter you from trying this gem out!I suggest the Hole in the Wall Burger and the Carne Asada Fries.“

“I was back at Angelo's Burgers for a breakfast sandwich. I got the steak, egg and cheese. Next time I will omit the lettuce and tomato but I like to try something new the way it is presented. It was a New York streak, not sliced meat. It was pretty good. The staff is helpful, patient and friendly. It's an order at the counter and have a seat kinda place. I got mine to go“

“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!“

“I only come here for the flan. It is delicious!! Just like how my mom makes it at home. I live nearby, so I come as often as I can, and I always double check to make sure they have it. The man at the counter is SO sweet. Whether he remembers me or not, he makes me feel like family, which I don't feel a lot in this area. I would NEVER expect anyone to do this, but he even gave me a flan for free one time. He absolutely didn't have to do that, but it meant so much to me. I always come when I need a little flan to make me feel like I'm at home“

“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.“

“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.“

“Brooooo! Im just gonna put it like this. Ive have tortas in Rosarito, ive had tortas in Tijuana, tortas in San Luis Potosi. These are the best mofo tortas west side of the mississippi!!! 15$ for the torta and the large horchata. On the real when i got my order i thought they gave me two tortas!! Its huge!! Red salsa is fire you have been warned!! Had me crying i aint gon lie on ja. Better torta than Cancuj Juice, better torta than Gallo Giro, bettet than Jugos Acapulco and better yhan Tortas Sinalo! Coming back fosho. YT: The Nava Tribe“

“Found this great restaurant when I was picking up a pizza I order and decided to give it a try. I was so happy to have found an official Birria restaurant so close to my home. I normally would have to go to Santa Ana or L.A. just to get a good delicious birria dish. Now I am so happy I gave this restaurant a try birria is delicious and authentic and the customer service is good. The restaurant is small simple not much of a dine in place or have the ambience for staying to dine in but gave this place a 5 star still because the birria is just so delicious and authentic.“

“Best tacos, laid-back atmosphere and consistent service! Our favourite is the Al Pastor Volcan - Marinated shaved pork with pineapple and spices served over a crispy corn taco. Incredibly addicting and as visitors from Canada, this will be something we will miss a ton!“

“thought I'd have some tacos while I wait for the rain to pass. They were nice enough to let me Put my e-bike under the tent outside as I enjoyed their great food for a great price With wonderful service. Highly recommend bringing the family here.“

“My favorite restaurant in all of RSM! Sitting lakeside with a tajin rimmed margarita and never ending chips & salsa/bean dip that my family can never get enough of, is my favorite way to spend a weekend afternoon/evening. All of the Margs are delicious and my favorite food recommendation is the Pollo Serrano, it's so good I order it almost every time I come. I couldn't recommend this restaurant enough!“

“We had no idea we were sitting on a gold mine. We had eaten near by a number of times and never thought to try it - another neighborhood Mexican restaurant. Friendly neighbors mentioned it, they got a big thank you. My chicken mole was so beautifully presented, unlike any I've had before and the taste was equal to its looks. My wife's order of enchiladas suizas de Pollo was incredible but she only gave me one, despite my begging. We were there for brunch but neglected to try the mimosas, a mistake we won't make again. Fellow diners near us did have them and we became very jealous. Our waiter was very attentive and flawless. As we left I wanted to tell the manager how good he was but gave up too soon. Bottom line - we're going back!“

“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.“

“My family and I were looking for a Mexican restaurant to have dinner on the way to San Diego. I found this El Coyotito on Yelp and saw the had handmade tortillas. I was sold. Everything we had was delicious. My daughter is super picky and she loved her food. The staff was very kind and helpful. Everything was very clean as well. We'll definitely be back the next time we drive down.“

“We were traveling north on the I-5 and wanted to get some Mexican food. We found this place and it was incredible! There is no Mexican food like the kind you find in Southern California and this place did not disappoint. Do yourself a favor and try the California burrito.“

“We love SoL Agave!! The menu is creative and diverse. I order something different every time we go there and haven't been disappointed yet. The servers have all been very attentive. My only complaint is the noise level inside. So we eat outside.“

“Parking is valet only, which we were ok with as parking in this area is rather difficult to find. Cost to valet is only $4 plus tip, was worthwhile.Chips were warm and fresh tasting but the salsa was more like a pico than a salsa. I am good with chunky salsa, but the other members of my dining party weren't fans. I ordered a steak burrito and it was good, but not the best steak burrito I have had. It is served enchilada style, which I am a big fan of.Service here was great, we were seated right away and drinks came quickly as did the food.The atmosphere here is a bit different. While it has great ocean views and a fireplace in the back of the restaurant where we sat, there was a bit of clutter on a few of the tables just past the bar to the right when we came in, which I found a bit out of place and was taken back a bit by. I stayed as this place was recommended by a local to the area. I would probably visit again if I were in the area again, but would be interested in trying something different on the menu.“

“Stumbled upon this place when leaving Armstrong Nursery. Ordered the 2 Crispy Taco plate with rice and beans $10.95! What a great value. Everything was super fresh. Not greasy at all. Beans & Green salsa were muy bien. Service was very fast. Owner said they've been here 31 years! I'll be coming back. Forgot to take pics.“

“Hands-down the absolute BEST Mexican food I have ever eaten!! We had the short ribs enchilada, the chicken nachos and a chimichanga. Cooked to perfection--even the chips are to live for!! We ate outside and watched the sunset while I sipped on a Corona Lite with lime. Service was superb. We will definitely return soon!“

“OMG I think I've just discovered one of the best place in Orange County to eat authentic Mexican breakfast food. I ordered the "Carne Asada, Chili Relleno and Eggs" , fresh squeezed orange juice and coffee. The dish came out looking so yummy and tasted beyond my expectations. My bill was $32.84 (plus tip) which is a bit higher than I'm used to paying but given the awesome service and food, I'll gladly pay this price since the gas and time to go to Mexico (for authentic Mexican food) would be much higher :). I got here a bit early for Sunday morning around 9am but people gradually piled in to take all the seats. I can see why too. I don't usually give a 5 star rating and reserve this rating only for the best experience. I'll be coming back soon.“

“I go to the country 2 step dances lessons with Debra on Mondays and I love it!!! Debra is an amazing instructor. Christine is an excellent bartender. Its happy hour all-day Monday. I enjoy it so much that I make the drive from North County San Diego! The steak dinner for $25 is a great value. I'm so glad a friend told me about this place!“

“Fabulous food. We did door dash for the menudo and it was so good. That evening I went in for a quick margarita and chimichanga! SO GOOD! Mario was my server at the bar! He was quick, pleasant, and made a perfect strawberry margarita! Highly recommended ?Parking: I was able to parknright in front of the entrance and the time I arrived was at 8 pm“

“Ambiance: nice and clean, subtle, and family style design. Wasn't too busy but a nice atmosphere.Service: amazing service, quick and friendly. Had no complaints at all. Our server was knowledgeable about different tequilas and helpful with the decisions.Drinks: I just came for a few drinks and had a great time. Had a margarita and tequila on the side. Both were delicious!“

“Always my go to spot for lunch while at work, always consistent food and quality as well. As authentic as you can get, rich salsas, flavorful proteins and delicious sides as well. Definitely worth checking out if your are going to the beach or in the area, you won’t regret it.“

“Quaint Mexican beach restaurant. Loved the fact that it was so close to the beach/you can see it from their outdoor dining area, which is where I sat.My service from start to finish was great. I ordered the 2 tacos with soup for $20ish. Tacos were on point and full of flavor(I ordered my tacos, 2 yr old style with only meat & cheese). The soup could've had a deeper flavor to the broth but still very delicious!Located on a very popular street in Laguna. Would recommend if you're in the mood for a laid back restaurant with classic Mexican food dishes.OHHH & THEIR SALSA = SOO GOOD!Parking - is on the street“

“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 ?“

“Great food! We ordered two combo plates: chorizo+eggs and carnitas. Food came out piping hot, and the tortillas were hot and fresh, too. I really liked the flavor of the beans. Jarritos sodas were a nice touch too.Cool atmosphere too, with a miniature bar and TV showing sports right at the entry. I'd definitely come back here.“

“Everything is amazing A-Z from staff to food to service! Food is delicious and most importantly dessert can’t forget that. I am a huge fan of their taco with choice of meat and horchata, flan , churros. Best Mexican authentic restaurant in town WAY TO GO!!! if you wanna try you will say many thanks to “

“This is gem quickly has become my ‘Go To’ spot for margaritas and sports viewing. The drinks are fantastic and the service is exceptional! You can not beat the weekend buffet and made to order food items. They have a great happy hour and an amazing taco Tuesday! Please see for yourself! I promise you will not be disappointed!Parking: Parking is available in abundance“

“I can't believe I've lived only 5 minutes away from this place for 7+ years and this is the first time I've been! I've missed out though. It was very busy on a Friday night (a good sign) but we got seated faster than anticipated and the food is very delicious, proportions are big, and service was friendly. A step above El Torito, which closed anyway. The cocktails are fairly priced as well! My husband and I had a date night but will definitely come back with our kdis.“