Best Tacos Restaurants in Santa Monica (90401)
8 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated
Notable Picks
#1
Yagul Cafe
8.9
This hidden Oaxacan gem crafts exceptional house-made tortillas from fresh nixtamal masa at their own tortilleria, elevating traditional tasajo and cecina tacos with authentic preparation methods. Family-owned since 2021, the bright downtown cafe serves breakfast and lunch with a focus on traditional cooking techniques passed down through generations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tasajo Tacos, Cecina Tacos, Mole Enchiladas
What makes it special: House-made nixtamal tortillas from their own tortilleria
#2
La Purepecha
8.7
Named after Michoacan's indigenous societies, this counter-service spot serves the city's best handmade tortillas with thick, soft edges that perfectly cradle succulent carnitas and adobada. The taconazos upgrade adds griddled cheese beneath your protein, while Tuesday's $1.99 taco special draws consistent crowds.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carnitas Taconazos, Grilled Fish Taco, Adobada Taco
What makes it special: Handmade tortillas with cheese-melted taconazos option
8.4
This coastal Baja-meets-Santa Monica destination features handmade tortillas crafted fresh all day, scratch-made agua frescas, and stunning ocean views from the expansive patio. Founded by chef Jenny Rush, the restaurant delivers a clean, fresh take on Mexican cuisine with locally-sourced ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baja Fish Tacos, Short Rib Tacos, Lobster Taco
What makes it special: Ocean views with organic, sustainably-sourced ingredients
#4
Tacos 1986
8.3
This Tijuana-style taco specialist brings authentic street food to downtown Santa Monica with perfectly charred meats, handmade tortillas, and vibrant salsas. Part of the acclaimed LA chain, this location maintains the high standards that earned them cult status across the city.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor, Mulitas, Vampiro Tacos
What makes it special: Authentic Tijuana-style street tacos from cult-favorite chain
#5
El Cholo
8.0
LA's first Mexican restaurant since 1923, this historic institution serves traditional recipes passed down through five generations of family ownership. The hacienda-style dining room and expansive patio provide the backdrop for classic green corn tamales and tableside guacamole preparation.
Must-Try Dishes:
Enchiladas Suizas, Chile Relleno, Nachos Original Recipe
What makes it special: 100+ year family legacy and historical recipes
Worthy Picks
7.9
Danny Trejo's celebrity-backed taqueria brings creative fusion tacos with bold flavors and quality ingredients to downtown Santa Monica. The menu features innovative combinations like Korean BBQ and vegan cauliflower options alongside traditional preparations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak Asada, Blackened Salmon Taco, Cauliflower Taco
What makes it special: Celebrity chef Danny Trejo's creative fusion tacos
Since 2010, this family-owned spot has served massive portions of Mexican-American favorites alongside their signature citrus-brined rotisserie chicken. Known for huge burritos and generous taco plates, Benny's delivers consistent comfort food with friendly service.
Must-Try Dishes:
Surf & Turf Grande Burrito, Rotisserie Chicken Tacos, Bavarian Cream Churros
What makes it special: 24-hour citrus-brined rotisserie chicken
#8
Casa Martin
7.6
This family-operated restaurant brings authentic Jalisco flavors from Tepatitlan to the Promenade with recipes passed down from their mother's kitchen. Live mariachi performances and generous portions create a festive atmosphere perfect for celebrations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne Asada Tacos, Al Pastor, Fajitas Mixtas
What makes it special: Live mariachi and authentic Jalisco family recipes