Vista's best places for Mexican cuisine are in our list. Taste the finest Chips and Salsa, Carnitas, Tacos, and more in the city.
“This is top 2 taquerias for me , top 1 in SD county as of now. Tiny little place but the food is simply amazing. Took me about a year to find a taqueria like this. Did I say the prices are excellent?Don’t get the carne asada fries unless you have another two humans to share with. Massive !“
“I really like the food from this place the only thing I would suggest is to have a person with better knowledge and fluency in the language when taking phone orders Unfortunately it took me longer to place the order due to lack of understanding than my meal being prepared.The gall that takes orders over the phone can definitely benefit of more training ?“
“La Perla De Michoacan stands out as a culinary gem, skillfully capturing the essence and flavors of Michoacán within the confines of its charming food truck. Despite its mobile nature, this hidden treasure remains a delightful secret, eagerly awaiting discovery by discerning food enthusiasts seeking an authentic taste of Mexico. From the inviting ambiance to the genuine cuisine and impeccable service, every aspect of the dining experience reflects the food truck's unwavering dedication to excellence. Renowned for its exceptionally delicious seafood offerings, La Perla De Michoacan has rightfully earned its place as a destination for gastronomic delights. Whether you're a seasoned epicurean or simply craving a taste of Mexico, La Perla De Michoacan promises a delightful and satisfying dining experience that will leave you longing for more with each exquisite bite.“
“Birria El Mendez has the BEST BIRRIA - HANDS DOWN. I always get the quesabirria tacos but I've tried most things on the menu and you can't go wrong with anything. Service is always excellent - no matter the location of the pop up - every person that's taken my order has been amazing! The family is down to earth and they work hard. Thank you for blessing north county with your Birria“
“Great place to grab authentic Mexican food. Went with my family and we all ordered different things and every single dish was beyond our expectations! Such delicious food and great service. Clean restaurant and fast food delivery. One of my favorite items was the cafe de olla, delicious! Will be going back.Kid-friendliness: I took my two kids and there was high chairs available for them and plenty of kid friendly meals to choose from.“
“I had this today and I must say it was pretty good. They cooked the taco shells well, so I didn't have to worry about the tortillas being soggy. I enjoyed all of the hot sauce, the white one was very hot for everyone who likes spice, so beware! Overall, I think it was really good. I wish they would've added more limes. It wasn't enough for the amount of tacos that I had. I also got a Horchata which I would not recommend. It had a very weird taste to it and I'm not sure if it was just a one time thing, but it was kind of tangy and tart so I wasn't a fan.“
“You can’t beat the .69 cent taco Tuesday deal!!! The meat is always warm & fresh!!!! Although recommended getting there early because the line builds up quick but definitely worth the wait!!!!! You can never go wrong with the asada, chicken or al pastor.“
“Taqueria Chabelita taco shop is a gem – the friendly atmosphere, thanks to Kimberly’s welcoming demeanor, makes it a place worth revisiting. The authentic Mexican flavors, generous portions, and affordable prices create an inviting space for enjoying delicious food. I can’t wait to return with family and friends for another delightful experience, the Carne asada fries were delicious!“
“Difficult to find late night Drive Thru Mex Food spots in North County. That alone makes this spot stand out. Ordered a variety of food that did not miss. Custom orders were met and food was spot on ! Lots of veggies options . Thank you Los Junior’“
“Carne asada burrito was so good, I went back for breakfast the next day. Great bacon and cheese omelette. My friend loved the salad with roasted chicken and fresh veggies. Good size portions. We were full, with leftovers. Will definitely go back.“
“The margaritas are the best I've ever had. This place is authentic, fun, and tasty. It feels like we are dining south of the border. If you are looking for romantic, this is not it, but if you are looking for real Mexican food, this is the place. The Barbacoa is so good that there may be a line to get in. The lamb broth that is served with the barbavoa is super yummy, too. We will definitely return!“
“I went here for taco Tuesday ?. It was my first time trying this restaurant. The staff was very nice and made me feel welcome. I ordered 10 Carne asada street tacos for $1.50 each, a small side of refried beans and chips. Everything was so yummy. I'll definitely return here again for taco ? Tuesday.“
“Took a friend to lunch for her birthday, and we had the lunch special..entree rice and beans.. a small cup of soup was included as well as chips and salsa.I have been here several times and have always liked the food. Today, I thought the salsa was a bit more watery than in the past. Our chicken tortilla soup had neither chicken or tortilla but was delicious with fresh vegetables .our entree was served at the same time and was not hot.. but was good, so we went ahead and ate . Our server was friendly and attentive as always..will try lunch again sometime. Hopefully, food will be better .. I like to support small family businesses.“
“I went online and looked at the menu found what I wanted me to call me to order when I got there from a Que Torta and a large orange juice it was $28 online the juice said it cost 575 when I got there I was charge 1156 a heads up when you make an order check what they’re charging you for. Because online they have a different price and when you get there it’s a lot more“
“I stopped by on my lunch break on a whim the other day, and got the best Carne Asada burrito of my entire life. It was delicious, even after taking it to go. Since then, I have had it on my mind for days, and went back again tonight. Will be back again and again.“
“One of the best taco shops I’ve been to in recent years. I forgot how good fresh chips could taste, lol salsa is really good. I’ve had a couple dishes there one was the albondigas and the other shrimp tacos both really good but the thing about this place is that the owners are really nice Community oriented and customer service oriented. will definitely be back“
“Excellent food and very friendly staff. They don't judge you and they have offered us free drinks on multiple occasions. The shrimp quesadilla is great (just be weary of the grease there is a LOT, but yummy regardless). Just know it is cash only! I'll take them over loud, crowded Rubios across the street any day!“
“I got the super nachos and i will be coming back! The cashier was super sweet- not sure if it was the owner but he didn't charge me for salsa, even though his sign says! (it's $1 I still gave it of course) Super amazing small local gem that needs more recognition, the restaurant has a very warm and EXTREMELY authentic i love it so much. Could not have chosen a better place for lunch! I will be back!“
“This place is busy is a hidden treasure. The food is some of the best Mexican food you'll ever taste. They even have potato crunchy tacos. That's when you know someone's mom is back there in the kitchen. Another thing that's different about this place is that the cooks are all Mexican women, which explains the food, of course.Vegetarian options: They have food made from potato. Tacos, sopes, and taquitos.“
“Excellent food, the chicken tacos are served with just the tortilla and meat, but the diy aspect of the salad bar is awesome because you can put as much or as little of the toppings as you want! The salsas were all good and the bar has limes and pickles carrots and cucumbers as well. The tacos were insanely cheap but super delicious, I will definitely be returning“
“Fantastic flavor on both food and sauces with not overwhelming price! Cali burrito was just the right amount and balance of ingredients. I'm not normally a guac on a Cali burrito person but it worked well here. Food came out fast despite the surprising amount of patrons here on a Sat ~8ish PM (which bodes well to the establishment) and friendly service, even felt like a local everyone-knows-your-name-Cheers vibe, friendly and I think it was 5 or 6 workers behind the counter.. Armando's climbs to my top 2 of Taco shops in the area, contending with Nico's. 1 Actually had sour cream like described 2 Small but clean sitting area 3 Fast and friendly service 4 Food tasted excellent and was well-balanced 5 All the hot sauces were slightly unique and tasted great 6 Not a complaint I could think of.“
“Great Mexican food at a reasonable price. The food is tasty without being greasy. I am a big fan of their California burrito. My wife and kids really enjoy the beef tacos. For lunch I like the taco salad. Lots of parking and indoor/outdoor seating. Most people get take-out, which is quick if you order at the register. They have a Sunday brunch, but I have never gone to it.“
“Mexico Viejo is one of my fav lunch spots!!! We go here all the time and determined that their extra hot sauce is our FAVORITE - it has a great blend of heat and flavor! It can get busy around lunch time, but you can also call in orders ahead of time (which we often do) and they have it ready when you get there. We really love their Colorado burrito and rolled tacos - the burrito is the size of my entire forearm! There's limited seating inside of the restaurant with some tables out front that they share with neighboring restaurants. One thing I really want to add is how sweet the woman is that works the register/answers the phone. She has always been so kind, patient, and hard-working. She's there every time we come in and always smiles and asks how we're doing. We love supporting this business and appreciate the quality and consistency in their food! PS. Don't forget to order the spicy carrots. It's a must for me whenever I come in :)“
“In our quest for the best molcajeta in the area, these guys are definitely contenders! Theirs comes artistically arranged with nice slices of steak and chicken and shrimp hanging over the edge of the molcajeta bowl. This not only makes it look good, it keeps the meats from overcooking in the hot sauce. Chorizo, avocado, green onions, cactus, great sauce. With the rice, beans, and tortillas, this was a very generous serving for two people. Great house made salsa and chips. The music was a bit loud when we got there, but we asked and they were nice enough to turn it down. A new favorite!“
“Luckily for us the parking lot was empty but I can see there being an issue on a busier day. The restaurant itself is in the corner of a shopping center and you would not think it is what it was, you walk in and it's marvelous.! Open seating/ bar seating. The attending staff said we can seat ourselves and someone will be right over. It wasn't very crowded and our server came over took our drinks order and left menus. We ordered and chatted. Food came over. Really exceptional! All was delicious and tasty! It has been a long time since I've had actual realistic Mexican food. I really recommend and will definitely return.“
“Rafaela’s is the most authentic and delicious Mexican restaurant. I have tried most of the dishes and all of them are done with a very delicious flavor ?????it’s a very clean place and excellent customer service prices are very very affordable, I think is low considering the amount of food you get in each plate. I strongly recommend this place for real Mexican food?? ?Vegetarian options: You can try most dishes without meat and they’ll be delicious.“
“La Takiza had wonderfully flavored tacos when I tried it.On the occasions that I went, I tried out their chorizo tacos which were topped with fresh cilantro and chopped onions. I also had their guacamole-salsa which added a bit of zest and tang on top of the richness of the meat. The meat hit different notes on my palette and was very intense.I’ve also tried out their chicken and cheese corn quesadilla which is unique as quesadillas are known for their flour tortillas. It was pull-apart goodness with enough cheese to keep you satisfied.Other items I’ve tried include their buche mulita along with pork tacos. Personally, I was not afraid to try out some odd cuts a.k.a. from the stomach.The tortillas were also nice and soft while still being hot and folded well over the toppings.If you go inside, you can see them making the tacos in front of you with a glass barrier between you and the cooks.As usual with Mexican restaurants that use fresh onions, be sure to pack some mints or heck even some carrots and apples as your breath is going to be pretty strong.“
“Food is nice- it's a departure from the typical California style burritos and tacos and features more authentic cuisine including sopas, tortas, street tacos, and a variety of fresh seafood. Service is very fast-- we ordered and got everything within about 5 minutes. (soup and tacos) Ambiance-- the dining area is a large plain empty space with a handful of tables with plastic checkered coverings. Not very inviting. I don't expect fancy digs for entry Mexican restaurants but it doesn't make me want to hang out here either. Perhaps this is a business strategy to get people to do more carry out orders? It's located right off the 78 and Emerald Dr, where there seems to be very few eateries, so this is a welcome place to have as an option.“
“Marvin's has some of the best hand rolled tacos ever, Lived next to it for a decade and now I go back whenever I'm up north. The patio is eh, but everything else is great!Wheelchair accessibility: They have one table at the front, if you are in a wheelchair, you are unable to get to any other table due to the size of the patio.“
“This place is definitely the spot! We came to eat here for the first time and the food was insanely delicious!! We had breakfast here with some micheladas, which have made my top 5 of micheladas that I've tried. (And I love my micheladas). The service is amazing. These workers do an amazing job at being attentive to customers. This place is a great little hole in the wall spot for some tastey Mexican food. Highly recommend this spot!“
“The menudo was the best and believe me I have tried them all. Most places have increased in price and shrunk the bowls. Francisco's Mexican Deli was right on point ☝️ and Delicioso. Great Atmosphere and Friendly ? Highly recommended ?“
“This place is a great representation of tasty Mexican food. My first time here at this Oceanside location Don employee was helpful to informed me on full menu and tacos was fantastic, chicken quesadilla wow ! Delicious The taste was amazing the tortillas are freshly made, so delicious and the portion size was just right. 10 out of 10. Bueno“
“Had a supreme tostado. The shredded beef was a bit salty for my taste. I've had better in other places. However, the tortilla shell was perfect! Nice place to meet a friend. No one hurries you.Parking: Timing is vip. It's a shopping center, so cars come and go.“
“This is not a fancy restaurant, but not too casual either. There is indoor and outdoor seating. The tables are a dining room type, with chairs and a table, no booths. They will accommodate large parties. Our church's praise band (13 people) has met there several times. There is no drive thru at this location. Bathrooms are in the back behind the kitchen of the restaurant. They are clean. Located in the downtown Vista area. Lot's of Resturant's and little shops abound. It's in a section that is often closed off for street festivals of one sort or another. Be prepared. Plates are very generous and delicious! We learned that the hard way, the first time ordering. You can easily share an entree. My husband and I share our order or be prepared to bring home leftovers. Because of the generosity of the entrees, and ability to share, prices are reasonable, even though the menu prices do not look like they are at first. We will be returning customers.“
“For this item $9.99 Tortilla n green sauce If you want eggs or meat it's extra When I bought it else where it w eggs . Only 1 person there so plan on waiting The menu that's posted on there website the prices have in creased but $2-3 dollars Got 2 pancake w 2 eggs and 2 bacon $9 California burrito $9 Small little store with lots of Hispanic culture inside“
“Update: 11/11/2023 the 5 roles tacos order was less than stellar the tortilla tasted like the taco was made from old stale tortillas and the filling wasn't all that great either. Too bad their is nothing fine about this place.The environment is too loud to even talk amongst your party and their is a bunch of drunk people everywhere even drunk people pissing outaide in the vegetation on the parking lot where there is women and children walking by.Truly a terrible place to bring a family too.By the way did I mention their salsas are terrible? Well yeah they are absolute garbage material.I enjoyed eating at this grub spot with my family. Everything was tasting delicious! They sell beer there too. You can watch the partidos here any major sporting event is happening here. They also have love bands that play on Fridays. You can hang out with friends and just drink $1 Coronitas. They even have beer specials here. Back to the food my fajitas were great, the mojarra frita Tilapia was great. So was the bean and cheese burrito. The drinks were good the salsa bar had a great variety of good tasting salsas.“
“It was like eating a homemade burger with a touch of Mexican food.Absolutely packed the pack with fries of which were not bad. Reminded me of McDonald's fries but slightly better due to the Mexican seasoning they usedOverall not bad! Might be back on a delivery if I am nearby“
“My favorite local taco shop. Their Carne asada slaps and is better than any of the other taco shops around this area. They're always consistent and always friendly. If your looking for a quick affordable stop to grab some Mexican food.... look no further.“
“Best beef in the burritos, tacos, and chimichangas. Mind blowing street tacos. Excellent salsas. Try the surf and turf. It is worth it! Excellent quick service.Kid-friendliness: Get ice cream and tacos. The taco shop and ice cream shop connect.Wheelchair accessibility: Easy to maneuver“
“Are you a fan of Birria?!! Hopefully you've tried it as it's sooo good. This spot does a good job representing a new Birria trend that is definitely spreading.I tried the Birria bowl, which comes with fresh tortillas & I liked it. I also tried their queso Birria taco which was also pretty tasty.Overall I'd recommend this chain, it's not the best or worse that I've had but does the trick when you're craving it. If you not aware- Birria is a slow stewed beef (Or goat but they only serve beef here). They put Birria in tacos serve in a bowl or even with Ramen.Interesting little taco shop vibe here, no reason not to give them a try- Happy eating!!“
“Food is very good...that's a 5 star. The one star is for the old guy cashier who never said hello...smiled and seemed painfully unhappy. When he gave me my burrito which was excellent he never said thank you or smiled. As a health care provider and business owner I can tell you that this kind of person is poison to your business. My sense is that he is the owners father because no one would EVER hire this man. Send him packing and hire someone who might actually know BASIC customer service.“
“We went through the drive-thru late on a Wednesday night. They were not busy. We got home before we realized part of our order was missing. The food was otherwise prepared properly and to order. The quality of the food was satisfactory and as expected.“
“A place that primarily makes churros? Yes, please! Of course I had to go. The first time I went they had an issue with the machine so it took a bit longer than expected. They were very kind and apologetic. Things happen and I understood. They fixed the issue as soon as possible and I got my churros. I have been back a few times and every time they have been crispy, hot and tasty. They give you a generous portion in the churro bites (my favorite). The sweet cream cheese dipping sauce is my favorite. The churros are great every single time. The only bad thing I can say about this place is that they now deliver. I don't have to leave my house to get some hot, crispy, delicious churros. As a matter of fact, I'm enjoying some as I write this.“