14 Best Mexican Restaurants In California To Try In 2026
If you’ve ever found yourself in California and wondered where to get a plate of tacos that actually tastes like it was made by a nonna who grew up in Oaxaca, you’re not alone.
Between food trucks, family-run taquerías, and flashy new hotspots, the Golden State’s Mexican food scene is a treasure trove-and also a little overwhelming.
After spending years eating (and overeating) my way through the state, I’ve done the hard work of narrowing down the 14 best spots to hit in 2026.
Let’s get hungry.
1. Californios
Tucked away at 355 11th St in San Francisco, Californios redefines what Mexican food can be through a two-Michelin-star lens.
Chef Val Cantu crafts tasting menus that honor traditional Mexican ingredients while pushing culinary boundaries in ways that surprise even seasoned foodies.
Each course tells a story, blending ancient techniques with modern artistry that transforms familiar flavors into something extraordinary.
The intimate dining room seats just a handful of guests, creating an atmosphere where every detail matters and every bite feels intentional.
Reservations book up months in advance, so planning ahead is essential for anyone hoping to experience this culinary masterpiece.
Expect to spend several hours savoring each meticulously prepared dish, from mole that takes days to develop its complex layers to tortillas made from heirloom corn varieties.
This isn’t your typical taco night, but rather a journey through Mexico’s rich culinary heritage reimagined for the modern palate.
2. La Taqueria
Since 1973, La Taqueria has been slinging what many consider the best burrito in San Francisco from its Mission District home at 2889 Mission St.
The secret lies in simplicity: no rice, just perfectly seasoned meat, creamy beans, fresh salsa, cheese, and guacamole wrapped in a flour tortilla that holds together like a dream.
Lines snake out the door during lunch and dinner, but the wait moves quickly as the efficient crew behind the counter works with practiced precision.
My first visit left me speechless after one bite of the carne asada burrito, with meat so tender it practically dissolved on my tongue.
The no-frills atmosphere and cash-only policy keep things authentic and prices reasonable, making this a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
James Beard Foundation recognized La Taqueria as an American Classic, cementing its status as a Bay Area institution that refuses to compromise on quality or tradition.
3. Nopalito
At 306 Broderick St in San Francisco, Nopalito brings farm-to-table philosophy to Mexican cuisine with stunning results that make vegetables the star of the show.
Chef Gonzalo Guzman sources organic, sustainable ingredients to create dishes that burst with freshness and flavor, from cactus salads to squash blossom quesadillas.
The carnitas here are legendary, slow-cooked until they achieve that perfect balance between crispy edges and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
Bright, airy spaces filled with natural light create a welcoming vibe that feels both casual and special, perfect for weekend brunch or a relaxed dinner with friends.
The house-made agua frescas provide refreshing complements to spicy dishes, with flavors rotating based on seasonal fruit availability.
Everything from the salsa to the tortillas gets made in-house daily, ensuring every element on your plate reaches peak deliciousness.
Vegetarians and meat-lovers alike find plenty to celebrate on this thoughtfully crafted menu.
4. Nixtaco
Roseville might not be the first place you’d expect to find exceptional Mexican food, but Nixtaco at 1805 Cirby Way proves suburban gems exist.
The name references nixtamalization, the ancient process of treating corn with lime to unlock its nutritional value and create authentic masa for tortillas.
These folks take their corn seriously, grinding fresh masa daily to produce tortillas that taste like nothing you’ve had from a package.
Tacos arrive piled high with creative toppings that balance traditional recipes with California innovation, like their famous birria tacos with rich consommé for dipping.
The casual atmosphere and friendly service make it a neighborhood favorite where families gather and friends catch up over plates of perfectly executed Mexican comfort food.
Don’t skip the elote, charred to perfection and slathered with crema, cotija, and chile powder that creates an addictive combination of smoky, tangy, and spicy.
Prices remain wallet-friendly, making it easy to order extra tacos without guilt.
5. El Molino Central
Nestled in Sonoma at 11 Central Ave, El Molino Central has been a local institution since 1922, making it one of California’s oldest continuously operating Mexican restaurants.
Karen Waikiki took over the beloved spot and elevated it while maintaining the soul that generations of families have cherished.
Breakfast here is mandatory, with chilaquiles that achieve the perfect texture between crispy and sauce-soaked, topped with farm-fresh eggs.
The outdoor patio under shade trees creates an idyllic setting for lazy weekend mornings, where time seems to slow down and worries melt away.
Tamales wrapped in corn husks arrive steaming hot, filled with tender pork or chicken that’s been seasoned with generations of knowledge.
I once spent an entire Sunday morning here, stretching one meal into three hours of pure contentment while watching locals greet each other like old friends.
Fresh salsa made from local tomatoes adds brightness to every bite, and the handmade tortillas taste like someone’s abuela made them with love.
6. Guelaguetza Restaurante
For nearly three decades, Guelaguetza at 3014 W Olympic Blvd has brought the soul of Oaxaca to Los Angeles with recipes passed down through generations of the Lopez family.
Walking through the doors feels like stepping into a different country, with vibrant decorations and the intoxicating aroma of mole simmering for hours.
Seven different moles grace the menu, each with its own complex personality built from dozens of ingredients ground by hand.
The tlayudas, massive crispy tortillas topped with beans, meat, and vegetables, are big enough to share but so delicious you might not want to.
Live music on weekends adds festive energy that makes every meal feel like a celebration, with traditional Oaxacan dancers occasionally performing between tables.
Tamales wrapped in banana leaves offer a different texture and flavor profile than their corn husk cousins, steaming open to reveal tender masa and savory fillings.
This family-run gem has earned its reputation as LA’s premier Oaxacan destination through consistency, authenticity, and genuine hospitality.
7. Damian
Downtown LA’s Arts District welcomed Damian at 2132 E 7th Pl, where chef Enrique Olvera brings his Mexico City magic to California.
If you know Pujol, one of the world’s best restaurants, you understand the pedigree behind this stunning space.
The menu walks a tightrope between refined technique and comforting flavors, creating dishes that feel both familiar and revelatory.
Industrial-chic design with exposed brick and warm lighting sets a sophisticated mood perfect for date nights or special celebrations.
Handmade tortillas arrive warm to your table, begging to be filled with perfectly cooked proteins and seasonal vegetables that showcase California’s agricultural bounty.
The aguachile changes with what’s freshest at the market, ensuring every visit offers something new to discover and savor.
Service strikes the right balance between attentive and relaxed, making you feel welcomed without hovering.
Reservations fill quickly, especially on weekends, so book well ahead if you want to experience this culinary hotspot that’s redefining Mexican fine dining in Los Angeles.
8. Holbox At Mercado La Paloma
Hidden inside Mercado la Paloma at 3655 S Grand Ave, Ste C9, Holbox serves seafood so fresh it tastes like the ocean just kissed your taste buds.
Chef Gilberto Cetina grew up in Yucatan, where seafood reigns supreme, and he brings that coastal expertise to every ceviches and aguachile he prepares.
The casual market setting might surprise first-timers expecting a traditional restaurant, but the food speaks volumes louder than any fancy decor could.
Tostadas piled high with shrimp, octopus, or fish get dressed with bright citrus, chiles, and herbs that wake up your palate with each crunchy bite.
Lines form early for lunch, with office workers and food enthusiasts alike craving the bold flavors that have earned Holbox a devoted following.
My favorite memory involves a pescado zarandeado tostada so perfectly balanced between smoky, spicy, and tangy that I immediately ordered a second one.
Prices remain shockingly reasonable for the quality, making it possible to sample multiple dishes without emptying your wallet.
9. Mariscos Jalisco
Since 2001, the bright orange truck at 3040 E Olympic Blvd has been serving what many claim are the best tacos dorados de camaron in the entire United States.
Raul Ortega invented these crispy shrimp tacos that changed the LA food scene forever, creating a cult following that spans generations and neighborhoods.
Fresh shrimp gets folded into tortillas that are fried until golden and crunchy, then topped with avocado, tomatoes, and a squirt of lime.
The truck’s fame has spread so widely that food critics and celebrities make pilgrimages here alongside neighborhood regulars who’ve been coming since day one.
No seating exists, so most people eat standing up or perched on nearby curbs, but nobody minds when the food tastes this incredible.
Watching the team work is like witnessing a well-choreographed dance, with orders flying out at impressive speed despite the constant line.
Cash only keeps things simple, and the prices remain remarkably low for tacos that have achieved legendary status across the city.
10. Guisados
The original Guisados location at 2100 E Cesar E Chavez Ave in Boyle Heights started a taco revolution focused on slow-braised stews that define Mexican home cooking.
Armando de la Torre grew up eating these guisados, traditional braised dishes his family made for Sunday dinners, and decided to share them with the world.
Each filling simmers for hours until the meat becomes tender enough to fall apart at the gentlest touch, soaking up complex flavors from chiles and spices.
The sampler allows you to try three different guisados in one order, making it perfect for indecisive eaters who want to taste everything.
Handmade corn tortillas provide the perfect vehicle, soft enough to fold but sturdy enough to hold generous portions of stew without falling apart.
A colorful salsa bar lets you customize heat levels and flavor profiles, from mild tomatillo to fiery habanero that’ll make your eyes water.
Despite expanding to multiple locations, this original spot maintains the cozy neighborhood vibe that made people fall in love with these comforting tacos.
11. La Super-Rica Taqueria
Julia Child famously declared La Super-Rica at 622 N Milpas St in Santa Barbara her favorite taco spot, and one bite explains why this humble place earned such high praise.
Since 1980, this unassuming taqueria has been grilling meats over open flames and serving them on fresh tortillas with simple toppings that let quality ingredients shine.
The specials board changes based on what’s available, encouraging adventurous eaters to try regional dishes beyond standard taco fare.
Outdoor seating under colorful umbrellas creates a festive atmosphere where beach-goers and locals mingle over shared love of authentic Mexican flavors.
Cash only policy and occasional long waits test patience, but loyal fans insist the food makes every minute worthwhile.
I’ve watched people drive from Los Angeles just for lunch here, proving that great tacos inspire serious dedication and road trips.
The rajas con crema, roasted poblano strips in cream sauce, achieves a perfect balance between rich and light that haunts dreams.
No fancy decor or marketing exists here, just honest food made with care and served with a smile.
12. La Casita Mexicana
Bell might not be on most food maps, but La Casita Mexicana at 4030 E Gage Ave serves regional Mexican cuisine that rivals anything in larger cities.
The Jaime family brings recipes from Jalisco, creating dishes that transport diners straight to central Mexico with every flavorful forkful.
Mole poblano here takes three days to prepare, with over thirty ingredients creating layers of flavor that unfold gradually across your palate.
Chiles en nogada, the patriotic dish featuring poblano peppers stuffed with picadillo and topped with walnut cream sauce, appears seasonally and sells out quickly.
The dining room feels like visiting a relative’s home, with warm colors and traditional decorations creating an inviting atmosphere where everyone becomes family.
Service comes with genuine warmth and helpful explanations for diners unfamiliar with regional specialties, making it easy to explore beyond familiar territory.
Portions arrive generously sized, often leaving enough for tomorrow’s lunch and extending the delicious experience.
This family-run gem proves that the best Mexican food often hides in unexpected neighborhoods, waiting to be discovered by adventurous eaters.
13. Puesto
Puesto at 789 W Harbor Dr, Ste 155 in San Diego combines stunning waterfront views with inventive tacos that push creative boundaries while respecting tradition.
The Seaport Village location offers outdoor seating where you can watch boats glide by while munching on tacos filled with unexpected combinations that somehow work perfectly.
Blue corn tortillas made fresh throughout the day provide a nutty foundation for toppings like filet mignon, crispy melted cheese, and avocado.
The restaurant’s commitment to fresh, quality ingredients shows in every bite, from the house-made salsas to the perfectly ripe avocados sliced to order.
Families love the relaxed vibe and kid-friendly menu, while foodies appreciate the sophisticated flavor combinations that elevate simple tacos into memorable meals.
The crispy melted cheese technique creates a lacy, crunchy element that adds textural interest and rich flavor to each taco.
Weekend brunch brings additional options like chilaquiles and breakfast tacos that start your day off right.
Multiple San Diego locations make Puesto accessible, but the Seaport Village spot offers unbeatable atmosphere and views.
14. Tacos El Gordo
Originally from Tijuana, Tacos El Gordo brought authentic Tijuana-style tacos across the border to its flagship location at 556 Broadway in Chula Vista, creating instant devotion.
The adobada, marinated pork roasted on a vertical spit similar to al pastor, gets shaved off in thin, crispy-edged slices that land on fresh corn tortillas with pineapple and cilantro.
Late-night hours make this a favorite destination after concerts or nights out, when only authentic street tacos will satisfy cravings.
Multiple meat options rotate on spits behind the counter, giving you a show while you wait and making it nearly impossible to choose just one variety.
Prices stay incredibly low, encouraging people to order multiple tacos and sample different proteins without worrying about the bill.
The no-frills atmosphere keeps focus squarely on the food, which arrives quickly despite constant crowds and lines that move at impressive speed.
Expansion to additional locations including downtown San Diego has spread the El Gordo love, but purists swear the original Chula Vista spot hits different.