Best Taco Spots in Santa Monica

Real videos of Taco Spots in Santa Monica — 8 places, filmed by creators on the ground.

Ranked venues

Lula Cocina Mexicana
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$$VibrantLivelyColorfulStreet tacosCevicheExtensive tequila
About the venue
Lula Cocina Mexicana, located at 2720 Main St in Santa Monica, California, opened its doors in 2008 and quickly became known for its fresh, authentic Mexican fare. With a bright and colorful open space, the restaurant showcases a menu featuring street tacos and ceviche, made using locally sourced ingredients. The taqueria-style setup allows for both dine-in and takeout, catering to locals and beachgoers alike. The extensive tequila selection draws in enthusiasts, making it a popular spot for happy hour.
What the videos show
The video showcases various Mexican dishes, including shrimp tacos, a plate with rice, beans, guacamole, and a foil-wrapped item, and nachos with guacamole, sour cream, and black beans. The camera focuses on each dish in turn, with a hand briefly appearing to pick up a nacho chip.
2720 Main St
@PamTay
Tacos Por Favor
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$VibrantCasualInvitingFresh ingredientsVariety ofDaily-made sauces
About the venue
Tacos Por Favor in Santa Monica serves up classic Mexican tacos in a vibrant, casual setting. Known for its fresh ingredients and variety of fillings, the shop has garnered a following among locals looking for a quick bite. The menu includes options for both meat-lovers and vegetarians, with sauces made daily. Regular customers enjoy the laid-back feel and friendly service. Takeout and outdoor seating options provide flexibility for diners.
What the videos show
The video showcases two tacos filled with beef, onions, cilantro, and salsa, accompanied by a side of guacamole and rice. The camera zooms in on the tacos, highlighting their ingredients.
1408 Olympic Blvd
@will_travel_for_icecream
King & Queen Cantina
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$VibrantOutdoorSocialCraft cocktailsOutdoor diningEvent hosting
About the venue
King and Queen Cantina, located on Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica, offers a blend of Mexican food and craft cocktails. The menu includes both classic and modern takes on tacos and enchiladas, served in a vibrant outdoor setting. A full bar features local and international craft beers along with signature cocktails. Often hosting events and gatherings, the lively atmosphere attracts a mix of locals and tourists.
What the videos show
The video showcases a table filled with various Mexican dishes and drinks, including tacos, sauces, and margaritas. The camera pans across the table, revealing different types of cuisine such as chicken wings and nachos topped with cheese and jalapenos.
1401 Ocean Ave
@emilyrose
Benny's Tacos & Chicken Rotisserie
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$CasualColorfulAffordableRotisserie chickenTacosBurritos
About the venue
Benny's Tacos & Rotisserie Chicken in Santa Monica serves a fusion of Mexican flavors with a casual vibe since 2011. The menu showcases rotisserie chicken, tacos, and burritos, uniquely crafted to stand out from typical offerings. The small interior is bright and lively, encouraging quick takeout or casual dining. Locals frequent it for its affordable prices and generous portions, especially during lunch hours.
What the videos show
The video presents a visually appealing sequence of Mexican cuisine, focusing on the presentation and arrangement of a meal. Over a span of 11 seconds, the camera pans across a table featuring a variety of dishes: fresh guacamole, seasoned rice, black beans, vibrant salsa, and a stack of handmade tacos. Each dish is shown in close-up, highlighting textures, colors, and ingredients such as cilantro, lime, and shredded meat. A large, red cocktail with an orange slice garnish is also visible, adding to the vibrant, festive atmosphere. The scene is shot from a consistent, static perspective with smooth panning motion, emphasizing the food’s visual appeal without any human presence or spoken dialogue. The setting appears to be a casual dining environment, possibly a restaurant or home kitchen, with a clean, minimalist table setup. The absence of signage, people, or contextual cues prevents definitive identification of a specific venue, but the focus on authentic, high-quality food presentation strongly suggests a real-world dining experience that viewers could replicate.
915 Wilshire Blvd
@maryam_malaika25
Holy Guacamole
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$CasualFreshQuickCustom burritosVibrant salsasOrganic ingredients
About the venue
Holy Guacamole, situated on Main St in Santa Monica, is a beloved local eatery specializing in a variety of fresh Mexican dishes. Known for their customizable burritos and vibrant salsas, this spot focuses on the use of high-quality, organic ingredients. The bright, casual interior invites both locals and tourists, making it a perfect stop for a quick bite or leisurely meal. Their commitment to freshness and flavor sets them apart from other fast-casual dining options in the area.
What the videos show
The video showcases a Mexican restaurant called 'The Grilled Mexican Food.' It begins with an exterior shot of the restaurant, highlighting its green storefront and neon 'Open' sign. The scene then transitions to a close-up of a partially eaten burrito, revealing its contents: rice, meat, cheese, tomatoes, lettuce, and sauce. The video concludes with a shot of two hands holding the burrito open, displaying all ingredients inside. The narrator mentions adding extra guacamole but forgetting to mention it earlier, and clarifies that this was not a breakfast meal.
2906 Main St
@SalamWreck
Hot Dog on a Stick
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FunBeachsideCasualCorn dogsFresh lemonadeFamily-friendly
About the venue
Hot Dog on a Stick in Santa Monica is known for its signature corn dogs and fresh lemonade served in a casual beachside environment. Located conveniently on the Ocean Front Walk, it's a popular stop for beachgoers looking for a quick and delicious snack. The restaurant features a cheerful atmosphere with colorful decor, making it a family-friendly option for visitors. Their unique dipping sauces are also a highlight for corn dog lovers.
What the videos show
The video showcases a food stand named 'Dog On A Stick' under clear skies. The stand features 'Order Here' windows and a menu board with various items. Two individuals, one in a green shirt and another in dark clothing with a white hat, are seen placing orders at the counter. The scene is set in an outdoor environment with parked cars visible in the background.
1633 Ocean Front Walk
@ValleyGerl
Mariasol Restaurant
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$$$FestiveCoastalFamily-friendlyOcean viewsFresh seafoodLive music
About the venue
Mariasol Restaurant, located at Santa Monica Pier, offers traditional coastal Mexican cuisine with a breathtaking ocean view. Opened in 1998, the restaurant features outdoor seating, allowing diners to enjoy fresh seafood and authentic tacos with a stunning sunset backdrop. Known for its margaritas, Mariasol is a favorite among beachgoers and families visiting the pier. The lively vibe is complemented by occasional live music events.
What the videos show
The video showcases a dining experience at Maria Sol Cantina, featuring a young girl coloring and enjoying various Mexican dishes such as steak tacos, quesadillas, and a salad in a crispy taco shell. The ambiance includes a beachside setting with people walking on the pier and enjoying the outdoors. The video also captures a Bloody Mary cocktail being picked up, adding a touch of adult beverage to the dining experience.
401 Santa Monica Pier
@keto.risa
Jack in the Box
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$ConvenientFast-foodCasual24-hour serviceDrive-thruJumbo Jack
About the venue
Jack in the Box, found at 802 Santa Monica Blvd in Santa Monica, California, is part of the fast-food chain known for its late-night menu. This location stands out with its 24-hour service, offering a mix of burgers, tacos, and breakfast items at any hour. The space features drive-thru service as well as indoor seating, catering to both local residents and beachgoers. The signature menu item, the Jumbo Jack, remains a favorite among patrons.
What the videos show
The video showcases a static camera view of a Jack in the Box menu board, displaying various food items such as tacos, chicken sandwiches, sides, beverages, breakfast options, and deals. A digital screen within the menu board advertises delivery services through the Jack's App. The audio captures a brief conversation where a customer orders four tacos.
802 Santa Monica Blvd
@endlessariana
@endlessariana