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ZipPicks Awards
Best Cheap Mexican Food in Highland Park
Best Late Night Mexican in Highland Park
Master Critic Review
Tacos Ensenada
8.0
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Family Friendly Favorites
Quick Bites Champions
Hidden Gems Heaven
This Figueroa outpost of Tacos Ensenada focuses on Baja-style seafood with fish tacos, shrimp burritos, and ceviche tostadas served in a casual, counter-service setting. It’s an easy, affordable way to get crisp, hot pescado tacos without leaving the neighborhood.
Must-Try Dishes:
Taco de pescado (fish taco), Burrito de camaron (shrimp burrito), Ceviche tostada
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 6.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Baja-style fish tacos and shrimp burritos in a no-frills room.
Who should go: Seafood taco fans who like generous portions over scene.
When to visit: Weeknights for easier parking and quicker counter turnaround.
What to order: Fish tacos, shrimp burrito, tostada de ceviche.
Insider tip: Double up on fish tacos—one is rarely enough here.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Figueroa is the main option; it's usually manageable before 6pm but can tighten up during peak dinner hours and weekends.
Dress code: Completely casual—T-shirts, shorts, and come-as-you-are attire are all normal.
Noise level: Moderate—it's a bustling counter-service shop, but you can still hold a normal conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes depending on the rush; lines move quickly.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, even during the noon hour.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—primarily sides like rice, beans, and possibly veggie-only tostadas if requested.
Vegan options: Very limited—expect to piece together sides; most mains revolve around seafood.
Gluten-free options: Decent—corn tortillas are standard, and ceviche/tostadas work well, but cross-contamination is possible in the fryer.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your ideal first date is relaxed and low-pressure. It’s counter-service, fast, and no-frills, so it won’t set a romantic tone, but it’s great for casual hangs.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations here. Seating is first-come, first-served, and generally turns over fast.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—plenty of families come through, service is quick, and there are simple items like rice, beans, and mild tacos that work well for younger kids.
Best For
Better for: Affordable, crispy Baja-style fish tacos and quick counter-service seafood without trekking to the beach.
Consider Alternatives If: You want a sit-down meal with ambiance, margaritas, or a wide non-seafood menu—this place is focused and unfussy.
Hours
Monday9am - 10pm
Tuesday9am - 10pm
Wednesday9am - 10pm
Thursday9am - 10pm
Friday9am - 10pm
Saturday9am - 10pm
Sunday10am - 10pm