29 Best Mexican Restaurants in Lake Forest

“Steak quesadilla was extremely chewy and greasy so I sent it back and still got charged for it. Took 30 minutes to receive check and 15 minutes to get credit card back when it was not even that busy“

“Our Women's Group meets there monthly and we always have fabulous service and the food is delicious!! They bring out the entire staff to sing, dance & play instruments for Birthday's and gift framed photos. Fun, family atmosphere!!!!“

“There was 7 of us in town for a conference and we stumbled upon Hole in the Wall Burger! Burger was delicious the service outstanding and special sauce of the chart’s. Next time I’m in the area I’ll definitely be stopping by and have a burger!“

“Love going to Morena‘s for lunch and brunch. The food is as good as any I’ve had in Southern California and the service is better than most places. Prices are acceptable. If you want a real experience go for brunch the staff is so friendly and warm. It’s hard to come away with a bad experience“

“Best Mexican food in Lake Forest. The price and portions are awesome, too much food you might say. Taco Tuesday specials are a hit. Mexican Coca-Cola available along with Aguas frescas options. The owner is very friendly and polite. Definitely a hole-in-the-wall treasure in Lake Forest. Give them a “

“Always enjoy eating here, been a customer for 18+ years. For us it is worth the hour drive.“

“Love Wahoo’s! My family and I come here weekly! The prices in kids meals recently went up, which was a little bummer. However, it is worth it for us to know that we can have healthier food options and eat a delicious and balanced meal without feeling completely stuffed.“

“My hangout, healthy choices and some items under $5 while earning points ���“

“This Mexican restaurant in Lake Forest, California is truly a hidden gem. From the moment you walk in, you immediately feel welcomed and appreciated. The owner is always cheerful, kind, and genuinely attentive to his customers. He greets people with a smile, checks in to make sure everything is going well, and makes you feel like more than just another table. It’s rare to see that level of dedication and warmth, and it really makes a difference.

The restaurant itself is well kept and organized, and you can tell that the owner takes pride in maintaining everything in order. The atmosphere feels inviting, comfortable, and family-friendly — the kind of place where you can relax and enjoy your meal without feeling rushed.

One of the things I love most is the incredible variety of dishes and desserts they offer. There is truly something for everyone. Whether you’re craving traditional Mexican flavors or something a little different, the menu has plenty of options. The food is flavorful, well prepared, and consistently satisfying. And the desserts are a wonderful way to end the meal — it’s hard to choose just one!

I absolutely love coming to this place. Between the amazing service, the friendly and attentive owner, the wide selection of delicious food, and the welcoming atmosphere, it’s always a great experience. I always leave happy and looking forward to my next visit.

I truly hope to return again very soon — this is definitely one of my favorite spots in Lake Forest!“

“This is just a little hole in the wall Mexican joint. One time I had Taco, Beans, and Rice and another time I had Taquitos, Beans and Rice. Both times were good. The food isn’t expensive, it is a perfect place for a quick Breakfast or lunch.“

“Only place in San Diego county I feel like you can get a proper breakfast burrito. Ten out of ten.“

“First time here. We came on a busy Friday evening with a party of 5 plus two 2 year olds. Arrived just ahead of the crowds (around 5:15) so we were seated right away. Still, the restaurant was full. Despite this, the service was fast. Drink orders were taken right away, chips and salsa brought tk thr table directly, and orders taken just after the arrival of our drink orders. The food was very good, as were the margaritas.“

“Excellent and creative food. I love the Oceanside taco with octopus and shrimp. Also they have a cilantro cream sauce that is amazing! I often buy many burritos for my customers and they always package them up nicely in a box making them easy to carry into offices and job sites.“

“Horchata was on point. The churro cookies are amazing. This place does sometimes suffer from long waits especially on taco Tuesday. The workers are kind and have given me free drinks while I wait which is much appreciated. Shout out to the amazing staff they are always caring and aware of the customers and considerate. Food is always great the best tortillas in the Mexican food game right now. Don't sleep on it.“

“So I came here for the first time with 2 friends that come on a regular basis. We all ordered 2 crispy tacos. Well,1 taco was the crispy taco shell, and the other taco shell looked like one of the fast food places taco shells. Other than that, it was pretty good.“

“Love this restaurant. Been coming here for years. The food is reliably good. I really enjoy the breakfast: huevos rancheros with papitas! They make fresh corn tortillas in the restaurant and the service is always friendly. It's a mom and pop place so expect quality over thrills. The dining room is always clean and welcoming.“

“Caren works very efficiently and is a great asset to the company. I hope she is truly valued for her hard work. She promotes the food as if it were her own business, which shows her dedication and pride in what she does. Both she and the cook are very fast and stay focused on their tasks. Excellent service overall.“

“Our first time at a Wahoo's.
We were greeted by a nice gentleman named Freddy who helped translate the menu in spanish for my parents and explained everything throughly. The food was really fresh and his service was top notch! Thank you cooks and Freddy, my picky parents left very happy! ?“

“The food was good, but the size of the chicken pieces keep shrinking and the price is inflating. I don’t like the kiosk ordering. When I go to a restaurant I want to be served. Also, the kiosk kept making beeping noises while I was eating. Very annoying.“

“Hello, more fantastic food now“

“Great people, environment drinks etc, highly recommend“

“Best place yet in California to eat other than grandma carmen's“

“For the store being close to the corporate office…they weren’t super fast :/. Which is surprising because as a former employee of 5 years, they were always on our a$$ to get the time down and have fast service. I actually timed it and they took almost 5 minutes. Which is considered bad back when I was a manager. Sooooo double standards?? Anyways onto the real review. Food was hot and crispy. The guy forgot to give me my drink which I waited for.“

“This El Pollo Loco restaurant is Amazing. The staff are all very kind and prep the food fast. The Manager Luis is a cool guy and takes care of Business! Emma is also very kind and always puts the clients first. Overall excellent Pollo and great experience!“

“I've been here a few times and always have a good experience, but today was exceptional! They were out of chicken when I arrived, so I had to wait a few minutes. Zack was amazing—he offered chips, guac, and a soda while I waited and apologized multiple times. Very polite and respectful, The whole team was friendly, and even the cook apologized. Great service—I’ll definitely keep coming back“

“Del Taco, is quickly becoming my favorite fast food chain for when I have Taco cravings. This location is one of the best in Lake Forest, with a 24-hour drive through and all-day breakfast. They treat me fair and friendly every time too, and also is a nice quiet place for dinner. Favorite entrees include the chicken quesadilla, the steak quesadilla taco, and the bean and cheese burrito with green chili.

Vegetarian options: Limited vegetarian options including bean burritos, salads, and nachos. However, most are made in the same kitchen as meat-based items.

Parking: Handicap spots at the store front, and part of a general shopping center that is rarely busy, so it's easy to find parking.

Wheelchair accessibility: Two entrances with single manual doors. Wheelchair accessible counter but the soda fountain is not wheelchair accessible.“

“While our bean and cheese burritos were substantial, it was hard to taste either the green sauce or any cheese. It seemed more like a tortilla full of beans. So, not really up to standards or expectations. The ice tea was very good and the speed of service was also good.“

“Such an amazing time here at the LIVE MAS CAFE GRAND OPENING! The kids loved it, we loved it, the workers and managers where all so nice! Everybody was viking and having a good time. The drinks are really good. I got the vanilla latte blended! Can't wait to try all the drinks!“

“Orders arrive very fast. Drivethrough is smooth and rarely crowded. Food is consistently the right quality. Has a lot of the options I prefer. Employees are friendly and helpful. Open 24/7 with the drive through, so it is reallt accesible for late night eats.“