The 10 Best Mexican Restaurants in Orange County l Living In The OC
- Mercedes Shaffer
- Jul 28, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 29, 2025
Orange County is known for its diverse culinary scene, and when it comes to Mexican food, the options are endless. From traditional street tacos to innovative gourmet dishes, there are some fantastic spots you won’t want to miss. And we’ve even included a bonus restaurant at the end! Presented in no particular order, here’s a look at the 10 Best Mexican Restaurants in the OC, each with its own unique flair.
1. Ola Mexican Kitchen – Huntington Beach
Located at Pacific City, Ola Mexican Kitchen serves modern Mexican cuisine with breathtaking oceanfront views. From enchiladas and fresh seafood to creative tacos, their menu is a crowd-pleaser. The outdoor patio is a perfect spot to enjoy your meal while soaking up the beach vibes.
2. Taco María – Costa Mesa
A Michelin-starred gem, Taco María redefines Mexican cuisine with Chef Carlos Salgado’s masterful blend of tradition and innovation. The tasting menu is a culinary journey, featuring dishes like Aguachile and rich, complex moles that elevate Mexican ingredients to an art form.
3. Las Brisas – Laguna Beach
Perched above the Pacific, Las Brisas offers breathtaking coastal views and an emphasis on fresh seafood. Enjoy dishes like mariscos and handcrafted margaritas while watching the sunset—this is coastal Mexican dining at its finest.
4. Gabbi’s Mexican Kitchen – Old Towne Orange
Located in a historic adobe building, Gabbi’s combines rustic-chic ambiance with bold, flavorful dishes. Their mole poblano is a must-try, and the menu celebrates authentic Mexican recipes with creative twists that surprise and delight.
5. Madero Cantina – Fullerton
For a lively atmosphere and classic Mexican fare, Matador Cantina in Downtown Fullerton is the place to be. Favorites like carne asada fries and street tacos pair perfectly with their extensive tequila selection, making it a top spot for a festive night out.
6. El Farolito – Placentia
A beloved neighborhood staple, El Farolito is known for its hearty, home-style Mexican cooking. Generous portions of enchiladas, tamales, and chile rellenos keep locals coming back for that authentic, comforting taste of Mexico.
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7. Cha Cha’s Latin Kitchen – Brea
Located in Downtown Brea, Cha Cha’s Latin Kitchen puts a modern spin on traditional Mexican dishes. From their bold Short Rib Tacos to vibrant cocktails, this spot offers a lively dining experience with a chic, contemporary vibe.
8. Sol Mexican Cocina – Newport Beach
For a taste of Baja California, head to Sol Mexican Cocina. Located right on the waterfront, Sol focuses on fresh, coastal ingredients like ceviche and grilled fish tacos. The laid-back, beachy ambiance makes it a popular gathering spot.
9. Descanso – Costa Mesa
Descanso offers a unique interactive dining experience with “Plancha” grilling, where chefs prepare your meal tableside. From sizzling fajitas to their signature tacos, this innovative approach to dining makes every meal exciting and memorable.
10. Taquiero Taco Patio – Santa Ana
If you’re craving authentic street tacos, Taquiero Taco Patio is a hidden gem. With traditional options like al pastor and carne asada, bold flavors, and fresh ingredients, it’s a must-visit for any true taco lover.
Bonus Pick: Avila’s El Ranchito – Huntington Beach
A family-owned favorite, Avila’s El Ranchito has been serving authentic Mexican dishes in Orange County for decades. Located near the beach, it’s the perfect spot for classics like chile verde, sizzling fajitas, and their famous margaritas. The rich family history and welcoming vibe make it a beloved local staple.
Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining or craving the comforting flavors of traditional Mexican dishes, these restaurants showcase the best of what Orange County has to offer.
So tell me—what’s your favorite Mexican restaurant in the OC? Drop a comment below and share your go-to spot!
And for more on the Best in the OC, be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel and stay tuned as we continue exploring the hidden gems and hot spots of Orange County. For all things real estate-related, if you're thinking of buying or selling, my team and I are here to help. As your dedicated local realtor, I get calls all the time from people who discover me through my videos, and I’d love to hear from you. Until next time, I’m Mercedes Shaffer, bringing you the Best in the OC! InvestingInTheOC.com
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