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Mexican Riviera Restaurant
Master Critic Reviews (9 Lists)
Mexican Riviera Restaurant
8.0
Mexican Riviera is a family-owned PCH staple with over three decades of service, turning out big plates of combo-style Mexican food in a casual strip-mall dining room. Locals use it for everything from breakfast burritos to carnitas dinners when they want familiar flavors, chips and salsa, and plenty of parking right off Anza and Pacific Coast Highway.
Must-Try Dishes:
Super special wet burrito, Carnitas taco and enchilada combo, Potato tacos with rice and beans
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Long-running South Bay institution for hearty Mexican combo plates.
Who should go: Groups and families wanting relaxed, sit-down Mexican
When to visit: Lunch and early dinner before the busiest evening rush
What to order: Super wet burrito, carnitas combo, potato tacos
Insider tip: Portions are large—splitting a burrito or combo still fills two people.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Ample free parking in the shared strip-mall lot off PCH and Anza; rarely fills except peak weekend dinners.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; anything from jeans and a tee to relaxed weekend wear fits the vibe.
Noise level: Moderate; you can hold a conversation easily, though larger groups and peak hours raise the volume slightly.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes during prime hours, especially for larger groups.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, even for groups.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection of vegetable enchiladas, chile rellenos, bean tostadas, and customizable burritos.
Vegan options: Limited but doable — bean tacos, veggie burritos (ask for no cheese/sour cream), and salsa-forward plates.
Gluten-free options: Many corn-based items are naturally gluten-free; enchiladas, tacos, and carnitas plates are safer picks. Ask staff to confirm preparation.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual, low-pressure meetups than a romantic first date. The vibe is friendly and relaxed rather than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — they operate on a walk-in model. Arrive a bit earlier on weekends to avoid short waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Very. High-chairs, simple kid-friendly dishes, and fast service make it easy for families with toddlers through teens.
Best For
Better for: Larger portions, approachable pricing, and a familiar, old-school Mexican comfort experience that works well for groups and families.
Skip if: You want modern Mexican dishes, craft cocktails, aesthetic interiors, or a date-night ambiance — this spot leans classic and casual.
Mexican Riviera Restaurant
8.1
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Birthday & Celebration Central
Mexican Riviera is a full-service South Torrance restaurant known for hard-shell tacos, combination plates, and a broad Baja-influenced menu served in a casual dining room. Locals use it for sit-down taco dinners where rice, beans, and house salsas round out the plate, with plenty of options for groups who want more than a quick stand-up bite. With hundreds of reviews and steady neighborhood traffic, it functions as a reliable all-purpose Mexican spot in the PCH corridor.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ground Beef Hard-Shell Tacos, Chicken Enchilada and Taco Combo, Carne Asada Taco Plate
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Sit-down Mexican restaurant with classic taco combos and broad, Baja-style menu.
Who should go: Groups and families wanting a full taco-and-combo dinner.
When to visit: Early evening or weeknights to avoid weekend waits.
What to order: Hard-shell taco combo, enchilada-and-taco plate, carne asada tacos.
Insider tip: Pair crunchy tacos with a combo plate to sample more of the menu.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Shared lot parking in the Walteria plaza with generally reliable availability; fills up around peak dinner hours but still easier than most South Torrance corridors.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; jeans, tees, and family-dinner attire are all appropriate.
Noise level: Moderate; lively during peak hours but still easy enough for normal conversation at most tables.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes during prime hours, especially for larger parties.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait or a short 5–10 minute pause during the lunch rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — bean-and-cheese options, veggie enchiladas, salads, and customizable taco plates.
Vegan options: Limited — can modify some plates (beans without lard, veggie sides), but not a fully vegan-focused kitchen.
Gluten-free options: Partial — corn tortillas and several grilled items work, but cross-contact is likely; best to confirm with staff.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It works for a casual, low-pressure first date where the goal is comfort and conversation rather than a high-glam setting. The vibe is friendly and relaxed, not romantic or intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Typically yes. Most guests walk in, though weekend evenings may require a short wait. Larger groups should call ahead to check availability.
Is it kid-friendly? Very — the menu has plenty of mild options, booths accommodate families, and the atmosphere suits all ages without feeling chaotic.
Best For
Better for: Sit-down taco plates with rice, beans, and full combo-dinner structure — ideal when you want a complete meal, not just quick handheld tacos.
Skip if: You’re looking for modern, trendy Baja interpretations or street-style tacos with specialty proteins; this leans classic and comfort-driven.
Mexican Riviera Restaurant
8.5
Mexican Riviera is a sit-down Mexican restaurant at Anza and PCH known for chips, salsa, margaritas, and hefty combination plates. Burritos here run from classic chicken and carne asada to large veggie and shrimp versions that eat like full platters.
Must-Try Dishes:
Super Special Burrito, Grilled Chicken Burrito, Veggie Burrito
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Family-run Mexican restaurant with full bar and generously stuffed burritos.
Who should go: Groups wanting sit-down burritos, combos, and margaritas.
When to visit: Early evening or weekend lunch for relaxed pacing.
What to order: Super Special Burrito, shrimp burrito, chips with house salsa.
Insider tip: Ask about daily burrito or combo specials before ordering.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: A shared surface lot wraps around the center at Anza and PCH; spaces are usually available but can tighten during peak dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual; jeans, tees, and relaxed attire fit the family-friendly, sit-down vibe.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation is possible, though weekend evenings get lively with groups and the bar crowd.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes during peak hours, especially for larger groups.
Weekday lunch: Typically seated immediately or within 5–10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good coverage—bean and cheese burritos, veggie burritos, and customizable combination plates.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—veggie burrito without cheese/sour cream and vegetable sides, though not a dedicated vegan kitchen.
Gluten-free options: Corn tortillas and several protein plates can be made gluten-friendly; no separate prep area, so cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for relaxed, low-pressure outings than a formal first date—the space is lively, portions are hearty, and the margaritas help keep things casual.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—most guests walk in. Arrive slightly before the dinner rush on weekends to minimize waits, especially for 4+ people.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—high chairs, booster seats, and approachable combo plates make it easy for families. Noise levels help mask kid energy.
Best For
Better for: Full-plate burritos with sit-down service, group meals, dependable chips-and-margarita routines, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Skip if: You’re seeking hyper-regional tacos, chef-driven Mexican cuisine, or ultra-quick counter-service burrito spots.
Mexican Riviera Restaurant
8.4
Mexican Riviera is a long-running family-owned Mexican diner on PCH that locals rely on for classic hard-shell and soft tacos well into the evening. Big combo plates, taquitos, and tacos dorados make it a comfortable sit-down option when you want more of a full late-night meal than a quick stand-up bite.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ground Beef Tacos, Chicken Taquitos, Tacos Dorados Combo
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Decades-old neighborhood spot serving classic tacos and plates in a casual dining room.
Who should go: Families and groups wanting sit-down late-night Mexican plates.
When to visit: Evenings before close, especially Thursday–Saturday dinner hours.
What to order: Ground beef tacos, chicken taquitos, tacos dorados combo.
Insider tip: Ask for extra salsa and chips up front so the table can snack while tacos are made.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Dedicated small lot in front plus overflow street parking along PCH; generally available but can fill during peak dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual; come as you are—most guests wear jeans, tees, or relaxed layers.
Noise level: Moderate; family groups and larger parties create a steady buzz, but normal conversation is still easy.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak hours, especially after 7:30pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; seating is immediate.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several options including cheese enchiladas, veggie tacos, bean tostadas, and customizable plates.
Vegan options: Limited; beans (non-lard), rice, and veggie tacos can work with modifications.
Gluten-free options: Corn tortillas available; many taco and plate items can be adapted, but no dedicated gluten-free prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual, low-pressure meetups—it's relaxed, unfussy, and offers hearty plates, though it lacks the ambience of a more polished date spot.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes. They operate primarily on walk-ins, and even during busier evenings the wait is usually manageable.
Is it kid-friendly? Very. The family-style booths, approachable menu, and quick service make it easy for kids of all ages; high chairs are typically available.
Best For
Better for: Sit-down late-night Mexican plates with larger portions and nostalgic diner energy—ideal when you want more than a quick taco stand run.
Skip if: You want trendy ambiance, craft cocktails, or specialty regional dishes; lighter, health-focused diners may prefer alternatives.
Mexican Riviera Restaurant
8.3
Mexican Riviera is a long-running sit-down Mexican diner on PCH where combo plates, hard-shell tacos, and big breakfasts land in the teens. After more than three decades in the South Bay, it stays busy with locals looking for familiar plates, warm service, and a check that rarely shocks.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ground Beef Hard Shell Tacos, Potato Tacos, Cheese Enchilada & Taco Combo
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Decades-old neighborhood Mexican diner with big combo plates and honest pricing.
Who should go: Families and groups wanting sit-down Mexican without sticker shock.
When to visit: Evenings before close or weekend dinners for relaxed pacing.
What to order: Hard-shell taco combo, potato tacos, cheese enchilada plate.
Insider tip: Watch for menudo and pozole on cooler days when you want a fuller meal.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: A small private lot out front plus ample adjacent street parking on PCH; rarely fills except during peak weekend dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; jeans, tees, and family-dinner attire are all perfectly normal.
Noise level: Moderate; lively during dinner rush but still easy to hold a conversation at most tables.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes during the early evening peak, especially for larger groups.
Weekday lunch: Typically seated immediately or within 5 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Solid options including potato tacos, cheese enchiladas, veggie burritos, and customizable plates.
Vegan options: Limited but workable — potato tacos without cheese, bean plates (confirm no lard), and simple veggie sides.
Gluten-free options: Some plates can be made gluten-friendly using corn tortillas; most combo plates are modifiable but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It works for a casual, low-pressure meetup where comfort and familiar food matter more than ambiance. Not ideal if you're aiming for something polished or romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — the restaurant operates on a walk-in system and typically seats guests quickly except during peak weekend dinner windows.
Is it kid-friendly? Very — families are a core part of the crowd. High chairs, roomy booth seating, and straightforward kid-friendly menu options make it easy for younger diners.
Best For
Better for: Reliable combo plates, generous portions, and predictable pricing that undercuts trendier sit-down Mexican spots in the area.
Skip if: You’re looking for modern interpretations, craft cocktails, or chef-driven dishes — this is a classic diner-style experience.
Mexican Riviera Restaurant
8.3
Mexican Riviera is a longtime sit-down Mexican diner on Pacific Coast Highway where big combo plates, hard-shell tacos, and weekend breakfasts stay firmly in the value lane. Locals use it as a dependable neighborhood spot for classic plates, warm service, and a check that rarely surprises.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hard-Shell Taco Combination Plate, Cheese Enchilada and Taco Combo, Baja Shrimp Taco Plate
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Decades-old neighborhood Mexican diner known for generous combo plates and honest pricing.
Who should go: Families and groups craving classic sit-down Mexican.
When to visit: Evenings and weekend breakfasts for relaxed, unhurried meals.
What to order: Hard-shell taco combo, cheese enchiladas, Baja shrimp tacos.
Insider tip: Ask for extra house salsa and warm tortillas to stretch the combos.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Private lot in front of the restaurant with ample spaces; usually easy except during peak weekend dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; jeans, tees, and family-dining attire are all appropriate.
Noise level: Moderate — lively dining room energy, but normal conversation is still easy at most tables.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes during peak hours, especially 6:30–8pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, with immediate seating available.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection — cheese enchiladas, chile rellenos, veggie burritos, potato tacos, and combo plates can all be ordered meatless.
Vegan options: Limited — a few menu items can be customized (bean tostadas, veggie tacos without cheese, chips and salsa), but not a dedicated vegan lineup.
Gluten-free options: Moderate — many corn-based items (tacos, taquitos, enchiladas) can be made gluten-friendly, but no dedicated gluten-free prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Good for a casual, low-pressure first date — warm service and classic plates set an easy tone, but the setting is more cozy-diner than romantic, so choose it for comfort over ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — they operate on a walk-in system. Weeknights and lunches are almost always immediate; weekend dinners may require a short wait but tables turn quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Very — large booths, quick service, mild kid-friendly dishes, and a relaxed dining room make it easy for families with children of all ages.
Best For
Better for: Generous combo plates, classic SoCal Mexican flavors, and reliable value pricing — ideal when you want a comfortable sit-down meal without overspending.
Skip if: You’re seeking modern Mexican, craft cocktails, or chef-driven dishes; this is a traditional neighborhood diner rather than a trend-forward spot.
Mexican Riviera Restaurant
8.2
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Mexican Riviera is a family-run sit-down Mexican diner on PCH, open since 1989, known for hearty combo plates, hard-shell tacos, and breakfast dishes that stay firmly in the value lane. Owners Miguel and Cathy Esquivel have turned it into a South Bay institution where locals rely on familiar plates, warm service, and checks that rarely surprise.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hard Shell Ground Beef Tacos, Potato Tacos, Ground Beef Taco & Cheese Enchilada Combo
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Decades-old neighborhood spot where taco combos and breakfasts feel old-school and comforting.
Who should go: Families and groups craving sit-down Mexican at fair prices.
When to visit: Weeknight dinners or weekend breakfasts for relaxed pacing.
What to order: Hard shell taco combo, potato tacos, breakfast burrito with salsa.
Insider tip: Ask about daily soup and taco specials; they’re often off most delivery menus.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Private lot in front of the restaurant with ample spaces; usually easy except during peak weekend breakfasts.
Dress code: Casual and family-friendly; jeans, tees, and relaxed attire are all appropriate.
Noise level: Moderate during dinner and breakfast rushes, but still easy to hold a conversation at most tables.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes depending on party size; larger groups may wait slightly longer.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; you can walk right in.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — potato tacos, cheese enchiladas, chile relleno plates, and breakfast items offer several solid choices.
Vegan options: Limited — basic bean-and-veggie modifications are possible but no dedicated vegan plates.
Gluten-free options: Moderate — corn tortillas, grilled proteins, and some breakfast plates work, but cross-contact is possible in a diner-style kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you want a low-pressure, super casual meetup. It’s more about comfort and familiarity than ambience, so it works for early, no-expectation meetups but not for more polished date nights.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — they don’t take reservations, and walk-ins are the norm. Arrive slightly early on weekend breakfasts or prime dinner hours to avoid short waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Very — booster seats, family-friendly booths, approachable combo plates, and a relaxed staff make it ideal for kids of all ages.
Best For
Better for: Classic, comforting Mexican-American combo plates at fair prices, friendly longtime staff, and a relaxed sit-down environment that’s easier for families than most counter-service taco shops.
Skip if: You’re seeking regional Mexican specialties, craft cocktails, or a more modern dining room — this is a nostalgic neighborhood diner, not a trendy spot.
Mexican Riviera Restaurant
8.5
Family-run since the late ’80s, Mexican Riviera is a South Torrance institution where Taco Tuesday plates, combo specials, and strong margaritas anchor a loyal neighborhood following. The room feels more diner than destination, but the kitchen turns out consistently satisfying tacos, burritos, and plates that make it a go-to for relaxed happy hour taco runs.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baja shrimp tacos, Carne asada taco plate, Super Special Burrito with choice of meat
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Long-running family-owned cantina with Taco Tuesday deals and strong margaritas.
Who should go: Locals wanting classic tacos, plates, and casual margarita happy hour.
When to visit: Weeknight Taco Tuesday or early happy hour before peak crowds.
What to order: Baja shrimp tacos, carne asada taco plate, Super Special Burrito.
Insider tip: Sit near the bar during Taco Tuesday for fastest refills and quickest food turns.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Plenty of free parking in the shared lot out front; fills up during Taco Tuesday after 6pm but still easier than most PCH spots.
Dress code: Casual and relaxed; jeans, tees, and everyday wear are completely appropriate.
Noise level: Moderate during standard hours; louder and more energetic on Taco Tuesday but still workable for conversation.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes during peak Taco Tuesday-style rush; otherwise typically seated within 10 minutes.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; quick seating even for larger parties.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection of vegetarian plates and à la carte tacos, including veggie burritos and customizable combos.
Vegan options: Limited but workable; bean and veggie-based options can be made vegan by requesting no cheese or sour cream.
Gluten-free options: Multiple naturally gluten-free items like corn tacos and protein plates; staff is familiar with substitutions but no dedicated prep space.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if the goal is a low-key, casual meetup. It’s more of a neighborhood comfort spot than a romantic setting, but great for an easy, no-pressure hang.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—reservations aren’t typically needed. Arrive early on Taco Tuesday to avoid a short wait, but every other time you’ll be seated quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Very. Families make up a large portion of the crowd, and the menu has plenty of mild items for younger diners. Booster seats and spacious booths help with comfort.
Best For
Better for: Reliable, affordable taco plates and a classic family-run feel that many larger cantinas don’t replicate. Consistency and value are the standout strengths.
Skip if: You’re seeking modern Mexican, chef-driven plates, or a trendy bar scene. This is a comfort-first institution rather than a destination restaurant.
Mexican Riviera Restaurant
8.5
Family-run since the late ’80s, Mexican Riviera is a neighborhood Mexican cantina where combo plates, Taco Tuesday specials, and strong margaritas anchor a loyal crowd. Booths, TVs, and big platters make it an easy call for families who want relaxed service and plenty of beans, rice, and tortillas on the table.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne Asada Taco Plate, Baja Shrimp Tacos, Enchilada Combo
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Long-running Mexican cantina with big portions and Taco Tuesday deals.
Who should go: Families wanting casual plates, chips, and margaritas.
When to visit: Taco Tuesday evenings or early family dinners.
What to order: Carne Asada Taco Plate, Baja Shrimp Tacos, Enchilada Combo.
Insider tip: Ask for extra chips and salsa refills to keep kids snacking.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Shared lot parking in the shopping center; generally easy before 6pm but can tighten during Taco Tuesday and weekend dinner rush.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; jeans, tees, and family-friendly attire are all standard.
Noise level: Moderate; lively during peak hours but still manageable for family conversations.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes depending on game nights and Taco Tuesday traffic.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait and seating is immediate.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Moderate coverage with enchiladas, veggie burritos, and sides that can be combined into a full plate.
Vegan options: Limited; a few sides and customizable items but no dedicated vegan entrees.
Gluten-free options: Several naturally gluten-free plates (tacos, fajitas, beans, rice), but cross-contact is possible due to a shared kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a first date unless you want something extremely casual; the vibe is more family-friendly cantina than intimate dining.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are the norm. Go early on Taco Tuesday or weekend evenings to avoid short waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Very kid-friendly with booths, quick service, and plenty of chips and rice-heavy plates that work well for younger diners.
Best For
Better for: Big portions, relaxed service, and dependable family-friendly Mexican plates without pretense.
Skip if: You want upscale regional Mexican cooking or a quieter, date-night-oriented environment.