MomSkoop
California serves up some of the most incredible Mexican food outside of Mexico itself. From family-owned taquerias that have been serving communities for decades to modern spots putting fresh spins on traditional dishes, the Golden State is packed with amazing places to satisfy your cravings. Get ready to discover restaurants where every bite tells a story of authentic flavors, time-honored recipes, and passionate cooking.
1. La Taqueria
Walking into La Taqueria feels like stepping back in time to when tacos were simple, honest, and absolutely perfect. This no-frills spot has been serving San Francisco since 1973, earning a James Beard Award for their incredible burritos.
What makes their food special? They skip the rice and beans that many places add, focusing instead on high-quality meats, fresh salsa, and perfectly grilled tortillas. Their carnitas practically melt in your mouth, while the carne asada delivers that smoky char you crave.
Expect long lines during lunch, but trust us – every minute of waiting pays off with that first amazing bite.
2. Nopalito
Nopalito proves that Mexican food and farm-to-table cooking make an incredible combination. This San Francisco restaurant sources ingredients from local farms and creates dishes that honor traditional Mexican recipes while supporting sustainable agriculture.
Their menu changes with the seasons, but you can always count on finding creative takes on classic dishes. The carnitas are made from heritage pork, while their vegetable dishes showcase ingredients like nopales (cactus paddles) that many Americans have never tried.
Even meat lovers rave about their vegetarian options. The atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, making every meal feel like a special occasion.
3. Guelaguetza Restaurant
Step into Guelaguetza and you’re transported straight to Oaxaca, Mexico’s culinary heart. This family-owned restaurant has been introducing Los Angeles to authentic Oaxacan cuisine since 1994, specializing in dishes you won’t find at typical Mexican restaurants.
Their mole negro takes three days to prepare and includes over twenty ingredients, creating layers of flavor that will blow your mind. The tlayudas (giant crispy tortillas) are perfect for sharing, while their chapulines (grasshoppers) offer adventurous eaters a true Oaxacan experience.
Weekend performances feature traditional Oaxacan dancers, making dinner feel like a cultural celebration that engages all your senses.
4. La Puerta
La Puerta elevates Mexican cuisine without losing its soul, creating an upscale dining experience that still feels authentic and welcoming. Located in West Hollywood, this restaurant attracts food lovers who want sophisticated Mexican dishes made with premium ingredients.
Their duck carnitas represent everything great about this place – traditional techniques applied to unexpected ingredients with stunning results. The cocktail program is equally impressive, featuring mezcal and tequila drinks that pair perfectly with the bold flavors.
Weekend brunch here is legendary, especially their chilaquiles topped with perfectly cooked eggs. Reservations are definitely recommended for dinner service.
5. Las Casuelas Terraza
Nothing beats eating amazing Mexican food under the desert stars, and Las Casuelas Terraza delivers exactly that experience. This Palm Springs institution has been serving locals and visitors since 1958, becoming as much a part of the desert landscape as the palm trees.
Their outdoor patio creates the perfect setting for enjoying classic dishes like chile rellenos and enchiladas while sipping margaritas. The portions are generous, the flavors are bold, and the atmosphere captures everything magical about dining in the California desert.
Live mariachi music on weekends adds to the festive atmosphere that makes every meal feel like a mini-vacation.
6. El Tepeyac Cafe
El Tepeyac Cafe in East Los Angeles has achieved legendary status for one incredible reason: their Manuel’s Special Burrito weighs five pounds and can easily feed three hungry people. This family-owned restaurant has been challenging appetites since 1955.
Beyond the famous giant burrito, their regular-sized food is equally delicious and much more manageable. The carne asada is perfectly seasoned, while their homemade tortillas have the perfect texture and flavor that only comes from decades of practice.
The walls are covered with photos of customers who conquered the five-pound challenge. Even if you don’t attempt the monster burrito, you’ll leave completely satisfied.
7. Los Sanchez Restaurant
Sometimes the best Mexican food comes from places that look completely ordinary from the outside, and Los Sanchez Restaurant perfectly proves this point. This Pomona gem has been quietly serving some of the best Mexican food in Southern California for over thirty years.
Their pozole is legendary among locals – rich, flavorful broth filled with tender pork and hominy that warms you from the inside out. The tamales are made fresh daily using recipes passed down through generations of the Sanchez family.
Don’t expect fancy decorations or trendy presentations. Instead, expect authentic flavors, generous portions, and prices that won’t break your budget.
8. Tacos El Gordo
Tacos El Gordo brings authentic Tijuana street food directly to San Diego, creating an experience so genuine that you might forget which side of the border you’re on. This restaurant chain started in Tijuana and maintains the same recipes and cooking methods.
Their al pastor is cooked on a traditional trompo (vertical spit), creating perfectly charred meat with incredible flavor. The adobada tacos are equally impressive, while their salsas range from mild to face-melting hot.
Order at the counter, grab a seat at communal tables, and prepare for tacos that taste exactly like what you’d find from the best street vendors in Mexico.
9. Guadalajara Restaurant
For over four decades, Guadalajara Restaurant has been Sacramento’s go-to spot for authentic Mexican food that tastes like it came straight from someone’s beloved grandmother’s kitchen. This family-owned restaurant creates an atmosphere where everyone feels like part of the family.
Their chile verde is absolutely incredible – tender chunks of pork in a perfectly spiced green sauce that has just the right amount of heat. The combination plates offer great value and let you sample multiple dishes in one meal.
The staff remembers regular customers by name, and the consistent quality keeps families coming back generation after generation for celebrations and casual dinners alike.
10. Casa Jimenez
Casa Jimenez proves that incredible Mexican food can be found throughout California, not just in the major cities. This Fresno restaurant has been serving the Central Valley community with authentic flavors and generous hospitality that keeps customers coming back for decades.
Their mole poblano is rich and complex, requiring hours of preparation to achieve the perfect balance of chocolate, chiles, and spices. The carne asada is grilled to perfection, while their fresh guacamole is made tableside with perfectly ripe avocados.
The family atmosphere makes every visit feel special, whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just craving really good Mexican food on a Tuesday night.