Best Cheap Eats Mexican Restaurants in Walnut Creek (94596)
5 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated
Notable Picks
8.4
Downtown taquería pairing handmade tortillas with rotating regional taco styles and a solid beer list. Weekday happy hour keeps prices friendly without sacrificing scratch execution.
Must-Try Dishes:
Quesabirria tacos, Taco Gobernador (shrimp), Al pastor street tacos
What makes it special: Handmade tortillas and a beer program built for taco pairing.
8.1
Counter-service taqueria known for bright salsas, plancha-seared meats, and swift tickets late into the evening. It’s a dependable under-$15 stop for al pastor and hefty burritos downtown.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor tacos, Quesabirria, Super asada burrito
What makes it special: Full salsa bar and late grill runs keep flavors lively.
8.1
Family-run kitchen a block off Locust with scratch sauces, birria, and a weekday happy hour. The room is intimate enough for relaxed catch-ups while tacos and cocktails stay front and center.
Must-Try Dishes:
Birria tacos with consomé, Enchiladas tinga (as a taco add-on night), Fresh guacamole with warm chips
What makes it special: Scratch-made moles and birria anchor a true taco-friendly HH.
Worthy Picks
7.9
Family-run taco shop turning out classic street-style tacos, mulitas, and plates with friendly counter service. A practical pick for quick, affordable bites steps from the Locust bar strip.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor tacos, Mulita, Shrimp burrito
What makes it special: Straightforward Jalisco-leaning tacos with fast pacing downtown.
7.9
Polished cantina with a spirited bar, patio seating, and weekday happy hour focused on margaritas and snackable plates. Tacos land with reliable flavor and sit-down comfort near the Broadway corridor.
Must-Try Dishes:
Taco trio (mix and match), Chicharrón bites with salsa, Arroz a la Ezkina side with tacos
What makes it special: Lively bar energy with weekday happy hour and patio seating.