Santa Ana’s vibrant taco scene is a tapestry of flavors and traditions. From bustling food trucks serving up authentic street-style tacos to cozy taquerias offering innovative fusion creations, Santa Ana’s taco spots are a testament to the city’s love affair with this beloved dish. This guide highlights the top taco spots in the city.
In a nation crazy about tacos, every city boasts its champions. Santa Ana, a melting pot of flavors and traditions, is a prime example. From humble food trucks to bustling taquerías, the search for the city’s best tacos is also a journey through its neighborhoods and a glimpse into the soul of its vibrant community. Join us as we explore the delicious tortillas and perfectly seasoned meats of Santa Ana’s top taco spots
Taqueria El Zamorano
9/10 (1051 reviews)
| Directions | +1 714-884-4073
Authentic flavorsFreshly made tortillasRefreshing fresh juice
Taqueria El Zamorano is a hidden gem that locals can’t get enough of. The tacos are flavorful and authentic, with the carne having a perfect char, the pastor cooked just right, and the pollo bursting with great flavor. The tortillas are freshly made and the sopes are a standout favorite. Despite the limited parking and cramped facility, the food quality makes it all worth it. The fresh juice options, like the lemon cucumber and pineapple mix, add a refreshing touch to the meal, making it a must-visit spot for any taco lover.
Taqueria Los Grandes
9/10 (1116 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 714-647-9862
Crispy tacosDelicious salsaExquisite carne asada
Taqueria Los Grandes is a beloved spot for authentic Mexican cuisine in OC, with a strong legacy spanning over 40 years. The crispy tacos are packed full of flavor and not overly hard, and the carne asada burrito is a standout item. The red salsa adds a delicious kick to every bite, and the friendly service from employees like Rebecca adds to the welcoming atmosphere of the restaurant. While some reviewers have noted slight changes in the food quality over the years, loyal customers continue to return for the exquisite meat, flavorful salsa, and overall satisfying dining experience.
Tito’s La Especial
9/10 (891 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 714-554-9871
Unique Tacos Al VaporExcellent valueDelicious Taco Dorado
Tito’s La Especial is a must-visit for anyone craving tacos Al Vapor. These unique specialty tacos are a Northern Mexico delicacy that is hard to find outside of Mexico and the LA area. Tito’s offers these flavorful tacos in potato, bean, chicken, and beef varieties, each infused with delicious flavors from being steam-cooked. The prices are fantastic, offering great value for the quality and taste of the food. If you’re in north Orange County, make sure to stop by Tito’s and experience the magic of tacos Al Vapor.
El Yaqui Tacos y Mariscos
9.2/10 (578 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 714-617-4880
Flavorful TacosFresh SeafoodTasty Cocktails
El Yaqui Tacos y Mariscos is a spot where delicious tacos reign supreme. The Taco Yaqui and Taco Botana are must-tries, and the Botana Caliente is a crowd favorite. Their seafood dishes are fresh and flavorful, with the shrimp and octopus cocktail and tostada de aguachile standing out. The cocktails, like the Miche Pacifico and Remedio Squirt, are perfect pairings for the meal. While some customers have noted issues with pricing and service, the food quality and variety make this a worthwhile stop for a satisfying meal.
Cali Tacos
9/10 (767 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 657-346-2031
Generous portionsFlavorful specialtiesEfficient service
Cali Tacos is a must-visit spot known for their generous portion sizes at affordable prices. The fish tacos are a standout item, bursting with flavorful filling and topped with a delicious sauce. The Angel Burrito is a fan favorite, with customers raving about the size and taste of this satisfying meal. The specialty Cali sauce is also a hit, adding an extra layer of flavor to the dishes. Despite being busy, the staff at Cali Tacos are attentive and efficient, providing excellent customer service to all patrons.
Tacos Y Carnitas Sahuayo
9/10 (569 reviews)
| Directions | +1 714-617-4373
Flavorful carnitasBudget-friendly pricesFriendly staff
Tacos Y Carnitas Sahuayo is a popular spot known for their delicious carnitas and affordable prices. The carnitas are a standout item, with customers raving about the quality and quantity you get for your money. The chicharrones are also a must-try, according to many patrons. The salsa, although hot, adds a flavorful kick to your meal. While the line can be long at times, the friendly staff ensures a positive dining experience, making this a great option for those craving authentic Mexican cuisine.
Navarro’s Taqueria
9/10 (418 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 714-486-1068
Birria TacosConsuméFriendly Service
Nestled in California, Navarro’s Taqueria offers a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine that truly sets it apart from the rest. The simple yet clean establishment boasts an immaculate kitchen, serving up dishes that bring a unique twist to traditional Mexican flavors. The birria tacos are a standout, with a rich and heartwarmingly delicious consumé that will have you coming back for more. The friendly staff goes above and beyond, even bringing in extra seating for guests on chilly evenings. The cucumber/lime drink is a refreshing standout from the beverage selection, far surpassing the diluted options found elsewhere. And don’t miss their private parking spot for added convenience.
Taqueria Sahuayo Mexican Food
9/10 (116 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 714-468-0972
ChicharronesMenudoCarnitas tacos
Taqueria Sahuayo Mexican Food is a hidden gem in Santa Ana, known for its generous portions and authentic Mexican flavors. The chicharrones are a standout, crispy and flavorful, while the menudo is a crowd favorite. The carnitas tacos are a must-try, bursting with savory goodness. With freshly hand-made tortillas and a salsa bar for customization, this little hole-in-the-wall spot delivers big on taste and value. Cash only, but well worth the visit for a true taste of Mexico.
Cabañas Tacos
9/10 (478 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 714-610-1957
Handmade tortillasVariety of meatsFriendly staff
Cabañas Tacos in Santa Ana is a hidden gem amongst the food trucks, offering some of the best tacos with handmade tortillas in the area. The variety of meats, including suadero, cabeza, and lengua, provide an opportunity to try something different besides the typical al pastor. The friendly staff and delicious food make it worth the wait, and with prices as low as $1.25 per taco, it’s a steal. The plethora of salsas available adds an extra layer of flavor to the already fantastic tacos, making Cabañas Tacos a must-visit spot for taco lovers in Santa Ana.
Tacompadre
9.2/10 (85 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 657-900-2996
Quesabirria tacosSuadero alambreChocoflan dessert
Tacompadre in Santa Ana is a taco spot you don’t want to miss. The quesabirria tacos are a must-try, with melt-in-your-mouth birria and a perfectly crunchy tortilla. The suadero alambre is also a standout dish, overflowing with melty cheese and fresh veggies. And don’t forget to save room for the chocoflan dessert, a perfect ending to a fantastic meal.
Alebrijes grill taco truck
9/10 (668 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 714-655-3253
Taco AcorazadoAl Pastor TacoUnique menu
Alebrijes Grill Taco Truck in Santa Ana is truly a unique gem in the realm of taco trucks. The standout item on their menu is the Taco Acorazado, a visually impressive battleship taco featuring various delicious components including milanesa de res, fluffy short-grain rice, sautéed onions, nopales, sliced tomatoes, avocado, cotija cheese, and a grilled jalapeño. This hefty meal on a thick corn tortilla is a true culinary experience that is sure to impress even the most discerning taco connoisseur. Additionally, the Al Pastor Taco is a fine rendition of the classic dish, with sweet, saucy pork mixed with pineapple chunks that is sure to satisfy any taco lover. With friendly staff and a truly unique menu offering, Alebrijes Grill is a must-visit for those craving authentic and flavorful Mexican cuisine.
Taqueria El Jacalito
9/10 (68 reviews)
| Directions | +1 714-541-1563
Delicious menudoFriendly ownersFast service
Taqueria El Jacalito is a hidden gem in Santa Ana, offering delicious Mexican food with a unique flair. The owners are welcoming and attentive, making sure every customer feels like a regular. The menudo is a standout, with just the right balance of flavors to satisfy any craving. The service is top-notch, the prices are reasonable, and the overall experience is a must-try for anyone in the area.
La Torta Loca
9.2/10 (154 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 714-834-1817
Fresh, flavorful dishesGenerous portion sizesWarm and welcoming atmosphere
La Torta Loca in Santa Ana is a hidden gem praised for its fresh, flavorful Mexican food and welcoming service. Customers rave about the generous portions and authentic taste of dishes like the birria tacos and verde chicken enchiladas. The owner’s kind-hearted nature and the complimentary chips, salsa, and beans create a homestyle atmosphere that keeps patrons coming back for more. With accessible parking and indoor and outdoor seating, La Torta Loca is a must-visit for anyone craving delicious, authentic Mexican cuisine.
Tacos Lindo Michoacan
9.4/10 (143 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 714-805-4799
Authentic flavorsAffordable pricesFriendly service
Tacos Lindo Michoacan is a must-try spot for taco lovers looking for authentic and affordable Mexican street food. With a variety of options like tacos de asada, pastor, lengua, cabeza, and quesabirria, this hidden gem offers mouthwatering flavors that keep customers coming back for more. The convenience of being able to call in orders adds to the appeal, ensuring a quick and satisfying experience, even when the truck gets busy. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Tacos Lindo Michoacan’s delicious offerings and friendly service make it a standout choice for a satisfying taco fix.
Tacos Camila’s
9/10 (122 reviews)
| Directions | +1 714-592-9570
Flavorful TacosFresh SalsasQuick Service
Tacos Camila’s has been a neighborhood favorite for years, known for their delicious and flavorful tacos. The salsas are fresh, the tortillas are the perfect size, and the variety of meats available will keep you coming back for more. The self-serve toppings and complementary crunchy bean tacos are a nice touch, and the quick service ensures you won’t have to wait long for your food. While the seating area may be limited due to it being a food truck, the quality of the food more than makes up for it. If you’re in the area, don’t miss the opportunity to try out this local gem.
Chiva Torta
9.4/10 (703 reviews)
| Directions | +1 714-235-9125
Flavorful Tacos and TortasAuthentic SalsaTraditional Torta Bread
Chiva Torta has quickly become a go-to spot for many, offering delicious and flavorful tacos and tortas that transport you to Guadalajara with every bite. The selection of toppings and authentic salsa add just the right amount of spice and kick to each dish, making it hard to resist inhaling multiple tacos in one sitting. The tortas are a standout, with tender meat and traditional bread that truly hit the mark. While some may find the wait in line a bit long, the end result is entirely justified once you take that first bite. The authentic flavors and overall experience make Chiva Torta a must-visit taco place in Santa Ana.
The Taco Station LLC
9.2/10 (147 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 714-541-2757
Flavorful tortillasTender, moist meatWide drink variety
The Taco Station LLC, located inside a liquor store in Tustin, offers classic eats like carne asada fries and birria tacos, but stands out with their weekend special – 24-hour marinated chicken combo for $24. The whole super tender and mesquite flavored chicken, served with tortillas, rice, beans, salsa, sweet corn, and a drink, is perfect for sharing. The salsa adds a kick that enhances every bite, making it a must-try for taco enthusiasts. The variety of drinks, including Chinese sodas and teas, along with the friendly and attentive staff, make the overall dining experience at Taco Station LLC truly enjoyable.
Los Corrales Lonchera
9.4/10 (80 reviews)
Shrimp empanadasCasuelitaFish tacos
Los Corrales Lonchera stands out for its made-to-order shrimp empanadas and flavorful shrimp tacos and tostadas. The casuelita is a must-try dish, offering a unique and delicious seafood option. While some customers have noted a slight increase in prices, the quality and variety of the menu items make this taco spot a top choice in Southern California. The fish ceviche and breaded shrimp with seasoned French fries are fan favorites, showcasing the great quality and reasonable prices offered at Los Corrales Lonchera.
Chato’s Bar and Grill
9/10 (90 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 714-392-9846
Freshly prepared foodFriendly staffMemorable dining experience
Chato’s Bar and Grill in Downtown Santa Ana is truly a hidden gem. The freshly prepared food bursts with fantastic flavors that keep customers coming back for more. The low-key atmosphere provides a relaxing environment to enjoy a meal any day of the week. Whether you stop by for Taco Tuesday or happy hour, the friendly staff and refreshing drinks ensure a memorable dining experience. The open kitchen allows guests to witness the skilled chef create mouthwatering dishes, such as the shrimp ceviche and Shrimp Aquachiles, making Chato’s a must-visit spot in the Santa Ana area.
Flor De Oaxaca
9.2/10 (468 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 714-541-4414
Authentic Oaxacan flavorsUnique traditional dishesWarm and welcoming staff
Nestled in Santa Ana, Flor De Oaxaca may have some shortcomings, but the authentic Oaxacan cuisine truly shines. The Delicias de Oaxaca plate may not impress in size or presentation, but the flavors are unmistakably delicious. From the Tlayuda to the Plato de Flor de Oaxaca, the unique dishes offer a taste of traditional Oaxacan cuisine that is sure to leave you coming back for more. The staff, though small in number, welcomes guests with open arms, adding to the overall charm of this hidden gem.