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Tacos Ensenada
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
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.
Skip if: You want a sit-down meal with ambiance, margaritas, or a wide non-seafood menu—this place is focused and unfussy.
Tacos Ensenada
7.9
Tacos Ensenada specializes in Baja-style seafood—especially fish tacos and ceviche tostadas—served in a casual counter-service space that stays open through the evening. It’s where Highland Park locals go when they want something a bit lighter than late-night carne asada but still unmistakably Mexican.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fish Taco de Pescado, Tostada de Aguachile, Ceviche de Jaiva Tostada
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Seafood-focused Mexican plates—especially the fish tacos and ceviche—served late by neighborhood standards.
Who should go: Seafood fans wanting tacos instead of heavy fried fare.
When to visit: Evenings before closing for relaxed, unhurried counter service.
What to order: Fish tacos, tostada de aguachile, ceviche de jaiva tostada.
Insider tip: Order a mix of grilled and fried fish tacos to taste both sides of the menu.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; generally easy on residential side streets before 8pm but can get tight later at night.
Dress code: Super casual—hoodies, jeans, and post-gym outfits all fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate—there’s music and bustle, but you can hold a conversation without yelling.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes for peak hours, mostly due to ordering lines rather than seating shortages.
Weekday lunch: No wait; walk right up to the counter.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—mostly sides, quesadillas, and a few veggie-forward tostadas.
Vegan options: Minimal—some salsas, chips, and the occasional veggie tostada if you request no dairy.
Gluten-free options: Pretty workable—corn tortillas are standard and most seafood plates can be made gluten-free; ask to confirm sauces.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you’re aiming for low-key and fun. It’s casual, quick, and has great food, but not ideal if you want something dimly lit or romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Absolutely—it's counter-service and first-come seating. Even during busy times, tables turn quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Very. Plenty of families eat here, and kids who like mild flavors will be happy with simple tacos or quesadillas. No high chairs, but seating is spacious enough for strollers.
Best For
Better for: Fresh, Baja-style seafood that’s lighter than the typical late-night Mexican options in Highland Park; great for a quick, satisfying meal.
Skip if: You want a full-service restaurant, extensive vegetarian/vegan choices, or a more upscale dining experience.