Restaurantji presents Santa Barbara's standout Mexican dining destinations.
“Lilly’s Taqueria had a great atmosphere filled with Latinos (so you know the food was great). They have really good prices especially compared the neighboring locations. The place is very clean and service was friendly. Tacos were amazing, and the salsa bar puts everything together. The food came out so quickly even when it was busy. Must go to!“
“This place was recommended to us when we asked "what's the best Mexican food in Santa Barbara?!" It did not disappoint. Authentic, fresh, and packed with flavor. We got the nachos and a torta and it was delish! We'll be back when we visit the area again!“
“My friend and I went here after having coffee, at Handlebar. We walked in and were immediately welcomed in. They have excellent food, servers and most importantly great customer service! They truly care about the display & presentation of the food on the plate they serve you..., and about your overall experience here.“
“Friendly wait staff, beautiful ambiance, and fresh tasting food! Definitely recommend this place if you’re looking for delicious Mexican food. Also their starter salsa is absolutely delicious!! Easy to tell that everything is freshly made.“
“This place is incredible albeit a bit pricey but so is everything in the downtown area. Some of the best seafood tacos I’ve had. Also had a shrimp burrito the next day which was killer. Nothing felt greasy and heavy. Salad and ceviche portions were big enough to share amongst 3-4 people and were also awesome.“
“First of all, the food is amazing. We absolutely love the sister shop Corazon Cucina over time n the Public Market and this was our first time eating here. Three out of four of us had the shrimp tacos and all thought it was the best thing we ate. But the short rib and chicken tacos are also so good. The plantains should not be missed as well as the Tamarindo Margarita - so yummy. To top it off, the restaurant is hopping so strongly encourage a reservation. When we arrived the only table available was right by the door and it was chilly. We asked if we could move and the staff was extremely accommodating. They let us sit there to have our drinks and then move to a cozier table. They were very nice and understanding about it. Don't miss this place!“
“Great place to stop while traveling with kids! Very affordable tacos and delicious tortas!Vegetarian options: My daughter loves mushrooms and devoured the mushroom tortilla!Kid-friendliness: They were very accommodating to our kids and offered to make a quesadilla when my son mentioned that the hot dog was a bit spicy.“
“Awesome stop for some authentic Mexican food! The Quesabirria will blow your mind, the Nopales Tacos are amazing, and I was not disappointed by anything I ordered! Asada, Pastor, Barbacoa! Yes I want to try everything!Vegetarian options: Had alot of options for vegetarians from vegetable tacos to mushroom and cactus (nopales) substitutes.Parking: No prob!“
“Such a cute spot and the food is incredible! Ordered the Los Alamos Burrito and both a hot and iced churro latte. I could have this combo every day on repeat it was so incredible. The people that took my order were so kind as well. Absolutely recommend!“
“Great variety they offer in tacos, cakes and burritos, only that I personally did not like the tortillas, they are not good, ugly dough, I would recommend other dishes that do not have tortillas. There are also waters and soft drinks.Small place and few parking spaces. Regular prices.“
“Best carne asada torta I’ve ever had even while it was cold. The carne asada burrito was mostly beans i would say at least 45-50% of the burrito was just beans which is a lot considering the burrito was huge. The champurrado and arroz con leche were very good too. I wasn’t a big fan of the tres leches because it had shredded coconut on the top of it“
“It can be busy, but that’s what happens when you’re the best at what you do. It can give off the impression as chaotic, but that’s just at the lunch or dinner rushes. I’ve been here 10+ times in the last 6 or so years and every time I went every employee I witnessed or interacted with conducted themselves with such professionalism. All of them always know what they’re supposed to be doing and do it well. I half expected them to drive me home and tuck me in and with the way they treated me, they might have obliged had I asked. Keep up the good work and give the pillars of this restaurant a raise/bonus.“
“I had a late lunch. I ordered the chicken enchilada lunch special. Very tasty and good service. The chips and salsa that came with it were delicious. The only drawback is it’s a small place with not a lot of seating. I was able to get a table as I got there for a late lunch. If you go during the lunch rush, you may have to wait for a table or order to go. I also ordered a machaca burrito to go. I ate that the next morning on my flight home. Burrito was huge, the size of a small baby. It was tasty as well.“
“I love this restaurant! Every time we come here with my spouse and my dogs the staff is so welcoming and friendly. The pozole is so good! The mexican wine is delicious, this last time I got the mexican Chardonnay. They make us feel we are home so that's why we keep coming back.“
“Beautiful upscale Mexican restaurant. Both indoor and back patio have great ambiance. The food and drinks are amazing, however there were several mistakes with our orders and the bill that affected are experience. Hoping it will get better.“
“Go here. Come early. Get the menudo with Pata (weekends). Add an extra order of house-made tortillas. This place is beast mode. The lengua tacos are TOP SHELF!! And hit the salsa bar hard! Their sauces slap.Kid-friendliness: Always kids inside.Wheelchair accessibility: Parking for wheelchair accessible and easy access to the entire restaurant and bathrooms.“
“Food was good, service not so much but it was a Saturday mid afternoon and the restaurant was almost full. We didn't have to wait for a table. We sat outside to enjoy the weather and people watch. Once our order was taken the meal arrived in an acceptable amount of time. Good authentic Mexican food. Price for 2 with a couple of prepared drinks was just under 100 dollars, before gratuity. I would try other restaurants in the same area before going back but would likely return.“
“Wow! We heard about this restaurant. We all were blown away by the depth of flavors and the great service. They were quite busy!It has a large patio with picnic tables and some indoor seating. Order at the counter and they serve you.I had the quesobirria tacos. They were rich with a wonderful jus (weekends only). The chicken taquitos were loaded and very good. My son ordered the Emoladas. Very rich mole sauce slightly on the sweet side. The molecajete was beautiful.Great little salsa bar with some unique salsas. I think we've found a new favorite Mexican restaurant! Parking can be tough on the weekends.“
“This business is a tortilla factory dating back to 1946. I bought some of their tortillas from the market. However, they were stuck together. I called La Tolteca and spoke with the owner Luis. He was so nice. He explained the reasons why they ended up that way. He not only offered to replace them but delivered, to my door, two packs of tortillas! I thought that was so kind of him, especially at a time when we have stay at home orders. I just made a wrap, and the tortilla was fresh and delicious. Kudos to Luis!“
“YO this place is OFF THE CHAIN in the morning!! Forget Jacks Bagels or a lame gas station.....Grab your donut/breakfast sandwich and morning coffee from these guys.....You will immediately see and smell what I'm talking about when you enter the place. You're welcome.“
“Legendary spot! Cult classic Mexican food. Very casual and a few different locations all over town.Vegetarian options: The rajas burrito is a great vegetarian option!Parking: There are half a dozen spots in their lot and more on the street, but it can get crowded during the busy times!“
“Food is great their is just a heavy set cashier that seems a littleIndifferent to me. Her tone of voice is a little stand offish and body language and I observed her with other custermers right after me which she was super friendly and animated with so it’s just me she appears to not like.Been coming her 18 years“
“Great service and in a great location. We had their campechana tacos and birria with cheese taco, yum. The campechana tacos was the best from other spots we tried in the area. A bit pricey per taco but the campechana taco made it worth it. I enjoyed the pickled onion on the birria taco and the crispness was perfect.“
“I was driving back to my hotel a bit disappointed with my most recent dinner. As I am about to pull in I see the truck out of the corner of my eye and man what a find!! The tacos coming from this truck are straight FIRE!! Simple and delicious. Thats how a taco is supposed to be. It was so good I came back the next night.“
“The food and drinks were phenomenal! The staff. Went above and beyond to accommodate a large group during a busy fiesta Friday. The food is delicious and tasty and fresh. The happy hour menu was fun and plenty to choose from. Their regular menu features many delicious items as well. Definitely one of the best sit down Mexican food places in town.“
“Excellent tostada, tacos and burrito for our first time trying this place. Very friendly staff even though I arrived within half an hour of closing. Fresh and delicious chicken, carne asada and salsas. Can't wait to go back and try more dishes - it won't be long!“
“Food is very good. We have tried a variety tortas, Chile relleno burritos, fish ceviche and shrimp ceviche. The fish ceviche is my favorite! Always freshVegetarian options: They are very accommodating and can turn most dishes into vegetarian optionsKid-friendliness: They do offer a kids menuWheelchair accessibility: Entrance at Milpas is a ramp no steps.“
“This was my third time ordering the birria grilled cheese special - it is one of the best things I've eaten in Santa Barbara! But, sadly, this past time I ordered it, they didn't seem to grill it long enough (see photo). The cheese wasn't all the way melted and it didn't have a full coating of crispy bread on the outside like usual. The other two times I had it were both phenomenal! The esquites was refreshing and delicious.“
“I've come here twice and each time the food has been consistent. Its pretty basic authentic mexican food. My favorite is the chicken burrito with guac. They give you a very healthy portion of guacamole. The atmosphere is less than desirable but ou can be sure to find a soccer game on one of their tvs.Parking: Its tough to find parking here.“
“?? food was fire!! Warning cash only!!Taco de rajas was cheesy goodness authentic flavor- love the fresh handmade tortillas. Beef taco had generous meat, Tacos come with 2 tortillas, enough meat and rajas to make 2 tacos ??I also had the tamale with vegetables, good veggie and sauce topping.The kids had Quesadillas - they loved them!Hubby got chorizo and adobada /pork.The salsa bar is pretty simple, 2 salsa flavors and some pico de gallo.We'll def be back to try all the other optionsWe arrived around 8:30pm on Monday, there wasn't much line, but it quickly filled in. We got lucky and got a parking spot inside, otherwise you may have to park on the main street or in towards the residents.“
“Best Burrito in Santa Barbara, if not all of California. You have arrived at the intersection of the best produce in the USA and the best recipes of Mexico. Low key, all are welcome, Super (Cucas) consistent menu. Personal preference: Super Burrito: no rice, add guac ?, pollo or carnitas, and Verde sauce. Bring a friend, it's a lot of food.“
“Absolutely Delicious. The best Mexican restaurant we d been to in over a week of trying different places in Southern California/ Los Angeles. Either the food was subpar or the restaurant esthetic was. But not here at Carlitos, delicious food and beautiful restaurant. I got the tostado and it was enormous and delicious. My husband got the steak torta and he said he couldn’t believe how tasty it was. The staff was so kind and welcoming and didn’t have the chip on their shoulder that we encountered at other locations we tried in Santa Barbara. Also, the location is fabulous. We heard they did a movie screening the week before with Brad Pitt and Bradley cooper both just 20 feet away! The guitar player and his sweet dog wrapped in a blanket playing for us at sunset was the cherry on top, really beautiful“
“The Queso tacos are amazing. The birria is also incredibly good. Order the side of Consume if you are just getting birria a la carte items.....WELL WORTH IT. The service was great and we just stopped in for a couple of tacos (gotta have them when in Santa Barbara) and loved this place. A little small, but so are many other places on State St. As small as this location is, their food and service pack a huge punch for your appetite.“
“I LOVE Milpas Taqueria. If you are in the mood for a hidden gem with fabulous, authentic dishes, this is the place for you. Tucked away on Milpas, it is my go to Mexican restaurant.Hilda and Rogelio Salas, the owners, will take care of your cravings - I go there often!“
“We stopped at this small hole-in-the wall place that has great Mexican tacos and burritos (en route to LA). Food was simple and excellent, great prices, warm staff and a friendly efficient chef. The bathroom could use more frequent cleaning and some soap!“
“So much more flavor than the bars on state street! I was little apprehensive about my gringoness but everyone was super friendly and welcoming. A good place to shoot the breeze or practice your Spanish, would reccomend to anyone trying to get away from their usual routine and venture off into another side of sb.“
“The chorizo breakfast burritos were fresh and cooked to order. But don’t let that deter you if you are in a hurry, the wait was extremely short! The burritos are both the perfect size, as well as the perfect mix of eggs, cheese, potatoes, and chorizo!The salsa verde is absolutely delicious and would highly recommend getting it for your burrito or anything you decide to order from them!We will be coming again! 11/10“
“This has been our family's favorite Mexican restaurant since it opened about 25 years ago. Recently the owner decided to retire, and his niece stepped up to take over running the place. She has updated the decor and created online ordering. The wait staff is courteous and on-the-ball. The menu has been updated a bit and some recipes tweaked too - all for the better. Food is high quality, fresh, well seasoned, and delicious. Presentation of food has been upgraded and is quite pleasing. All in all we are thrilled this place has stayed open and think the niece has done a terrific job in making improvements while keeping all the things we love intact.“
“If you want a great breakfast burrito without a long wait, this place is for you. Erik's Breakfast Burrito with egg whites and spinach and broccoli is delicious. I get mine with sour cream added. I don't even like egg whites, but this is just so good - they nailed it. Staff are excellent too. For a kick, try their habanero sauce and a lime.“
“This place is really awesome Mexican food. I've had the chicken nachos which are amazing and the arroyo burrito with steak. Both really good options if you are looking for a hearty meal. I've heard the quesadillas are really good. I'm going to try that next time I am there. Parking can be a little tight here on the street. Paid lot is probably your best bet.“
“Fantastic no-frills Mexican restaurant featuring Mixteco favorites. Lunchtimes are packed and finding a plastic chair & table inside or outside will be challenging. Call ahead and pick it up to go if you don't want to wait but the food is worth the hassle. Breakfast burritos are hearty and loaded. Their torta is one of the best in town even though very simple. And their street tacos are incredible and they offer at least a half-dozen different meat options. Freshly grilled jalapenos generally available to augment your meal and their horchata is respectable. If you want good solid Mexican food at reasonable prices and you're in a hurry or not trying to impress a date, this is a wonderful little place to visit.Kid-friendliness: If you can find a place for them to sit, children will be no problem here. Very relaxed and family-friendly vibe.Parking: Parking lot but spaces close to the restaurant are often taken. Be patient and you'll find something though and it will be worth the walk if necessary.“
“Rudy's gets an extra star for its reasonably sized and flavorful pastor burrito. The combo burrito is packed with meat, served piping hot, and it is hard to put down. Other than that, Rudy's at the Presidio is a pretty standard Mexican food place, The service was disinterested. And the dining area is plain. This is not a destination restaurant. Just grab your burrito and head back to the office. I will return.“
“Palapas is an old style Mexican restaurant, that has been here forever, expanding outside during COVID. There are lots of competitive spots in Santa Barbara, but for inexpensive comfort food, they are hard to beat. Ordered on or out, the food is just a bit better than you'd expect, carnitas and fish selections are stand outs.“
“Beautiful restaurant! The staff were so friendly and accommodating. My husband and I came here twice on our trip to SB! The first time we came for our anniversary dinner and decided to dress up nice and didn’t feel out of place. The second time we came for dinner straight from the beach in casual clothes and didn’t feel out of place then either. We love that you can come dressed any way and feel comfortable. The decorations are lovely and the mood lighting is ambient and cozy. The taquitos were hands down the best taquitos we’ve ever eaten!! The enchiladas were a close second. We would visit Santa Barbara again just so we could eat here again! We loved it so much.“