I've been meaning to try this restaurant since it opened, since I go to Target and Stater Bros a lot. We went for breakfast, which was a fairly recent offering as they started with just lunch and dinner. I was pleasantly surprised by the food and service, having not checked out any reviews before. It's a small space, but feels cozy and a server brought our food out and refilled my coffee while we were there. The very sweet guy who took our order at the counter said his favorite dish was Huevos Divorciados, so I got that and my hubs got the breakfast burrito. I wanted regular drip coffee, which they have, but he also suggested their Café de Olla. It's a Mexican spiced coffee brewed with a dark roast, cinnamon, and piloncillo which makes it a little sweet. I usually take my coffee with cream only, no sugar. But this was really good. Since the sweetness came from the brewing rather than added sugar it wasn't too sweet for me. My Huevos were bomb. I tasted the salsas first & they were on the spicy side for me, so I was worried I'd made a poor choice for myself. But everything together was so tasty. Beans & cheese stacked between tortillas & a nice sunny side up egg, crema & cotija cheese. Delicious! The breakfast burrito was tasty - he can't eat spicy stuff he's literally allergic. But I tasted it with the salsa and it was a nice combo. Very flavorful. I saw another review on here that said their food was bland & they didn't want to use any salsa. That's fine as a preference, but I have to disagree on the lack of flavor without salsa. I tried the burrito plain and it was great. And frankly, if you come to a Mexican restaurant and have a problem with salsa... You might want to try something else. Mexican food comes with salsa to give you additional flavors to try and is a great accompaniment to this kind of food. But I don't see it being the only flavors here. This place is really tasty. Check them out! read more

A La Brava Mexican Kitchen - Breakfast burrito with carne asada & a green salsa. Also very good. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Aliso Viejo, California

See all

Craving some tacos and stumbled across this gem ---If you want an insanely flavorful off the hook burrito, head to A La Brava in the shopping center by Wendy's in Aliso/Laguna Niguel. I've watched multiple businesses come and go in that location and I would really love for these people to stay. Not only is the 81 Burrito (chimichurri) with asada insanely flavorful, the garlic shrimp with chorizo and potato taco (Condesa taco) and the mahi with corn (San Felipe) taco on homemade tortillas are bomb as well. I've also heard they make a killer breakfast. And I can't wait to try their homemade crème brûlée! They sell out daily. The owner is beyond friendly and welcoming. She is excited to share her food and truly loves what she does. That is so refreshing. I am so excited to go back. What a great experience! read more

A La Brava Mexican Kitchen - 81 Burrito with asada. Insanely flavorful. The chimichurri is perfect - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Aliso Viejo, California

See all

This has become our go-to Mexican restaurant in the neighborhood. It is family owned and they take so much pride in their food. The chicken tacos and beans were flavorful and were perfectly cooked plus the chips and salsa had just the right amount of heat. I would highly recommend this place to anyone looking for authentic Mexican food. So what are you waiting for give them a try. read more

Very happy to have found this Mexican restaurant in Aliso Viejo. The food was very fresh and felt clean and not overly oily. Complimentary lemon water was refreshing and yummy. The service was fast and friendly. The seating area was clean with nice decor. Overall a great experience and will definitely come back! read more

See all

I came across this random spot on social media and was pleasantly surprised to find out that, through AAA, they offered discounted meals, got $30 worth of food for just $13, which was an amazing deal. I had a bit of a hiccup with getting the voucher up, but the owner was kind and patient throughout. We ordered the chips, guacamole and beans, Queso Birria with consomé, and a Suadero burrito that had rice and beans inside. The suadero meat was mixed with some of the birria meat, and honestly, they tasted pretty much the same. While the service was superb and the staff very friendly, the flavor of the food was quite lacking. The rice and beans had no real seasoning and needed salt, and the burrito was very plain. I understand they cater to the area, but I just couldn't get past the bland flavors. read more

See all

It was Taco Tuesday and I was on the hunt for a good Taco Tuesday place. Yelp led me straight to A La Brava. It appeared to be a fairly new place, so I decided to check it out. They're located in Aliso Viejo, but it's actually borderline Laguna Hills. They're in the Target shopping center on the corner of La Paz & Oso Pkwy. Plenty of free parking is available in the shared lot. Their Taco Tuesday deal is $2.50 per taco , and you can choose from chicken, al pastor, birria, carnitas & cochinita pibil. The carne asada taco is $3. I got 2 carnitas, 2 al pastor and 2 carne asada tacos for me & my hubby (3 tacos each). When I got home and saw the taco sizes, they were much smaller than I expected. They are street tacos and my photos make them look bigger than they are. Hubby & I both agreed that the proteins were very flavorful, especially the al pastor! However for the size of the tacos, we didn't think it was worth the price. I wouldn't return for their Taco Tuesday, but I would consider trying some of their other dishes. read more

See all

I went back with a friend. The horchata tasted like watered down milk. No flavor. We had street tacos. Again, no flavor. 3 different meats but they all tasted the same. I love their salsa. I don't like anything spicy. It's perfect for me. My friend hated it because she likes spicy salsa. One hit, one miss. I'll give it another try. read more

See all

I greatly enjoyed the 5-taco combo and tried all of the available meats, except for the chicken. Unsurprisingly, the pork tacos were delicious. The carnitas seemed to have a little crunch on the outer edges, which definitely stood out to me. I also found the salsas to have excellent flavor. Both were fresh and tangy, and the red one was a little spicy. The asada, asadero, and birria were tasty as well, but didn't leave as strong of an impression as the pork. As other reviewers have noted, the tacos are visually quite small, but since the tacos are doubled up, I was definitely full after eating all five tacos. The establishment is relatively spacious and quiet, at least until folks start filing in for lunch, and I appreciated how friendly the staff are. Definitely a hidden gem in AV! read more

What Mexican food should taste like. Asada street tacos perfect, tender. Chicken enchiladas you can cut easily with a plastic fork. Good salsa and refried beans. Will return often. read more

I love Mexican food establishments that do things a little differently, especially by making things more Michelin-like, clean, creative, and kind of like a Mexican-fusion kind of upscale yet affordable experience. My favorite Mexican place like this is called Los Chaparros in Honolulu, Hawaii, and it's the first time I've seen a similar concept when I first visited A La Brava here in Aliso Viejo, California. The birria meat inside the classic burrito was super clean and well-presented, actually tasting healthy and rewarding, which is the best thing I can find when I eat Mexican food. There was a little bit of a funky water taste which I might be a bit sensitive to, since I drink California spring water from the grocery store rather than filtered tap water which many people here are okay with - I get gag reflex when I'm forced to drink water with a weird taste. So, maybe the water here was a bit stronger tasting in the burrito, but I could still eat it and I loved the presentation and the ideas behind the restaurant. Honestly, the salsas weren't that impressive and I'd really love to see if they can make their salsas here like they do at Cha Cha's Latin Kitchen in Tustin, because those are the best salsas I've had! The staff are awesome, hardworking, and treat their customers like they are special, which I know will go a really long way, especially in the restaurant business! The vibe is really a beautiful atmosphere with a casual yet sensible interior design. I think the front door sometimes sticks open and this tends to lead to flies coming into the restaurant, which we know the food safety inspectors don't like. Other than that, the air conditioner was blowing strong in one direction which made me not want to sit under that cold wind. A lovely place & I support the creativity and dedication to clean presentation that they offer here! read more

A La Brava Mexican Kitchen - Classic burrito - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Aliso Viejo, California

See all

All the other dishes on the menu look great so we're willing to go back and give it another try, but the tacos we had on taco Tuesday left us sad and still on the search for a favorite local taco shop. So far, the only one in the area that is delicious and at a decent price point is The Taco Stand. We had the adobada tacos, and carne asada tacos. The adobada tacos were dry ASF. Carne asada fared a little better. Chicken quesadilla tasted fine. Rice and beans were fine, salsa is good. If the meat wasn't so dry I'd probably be giving more praise. Perhaps the chilaquiles is the main go-to as I'm seeing people rave about that. Will update review after one more try.... read more

A La Brava Mexican Kitchen - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Aliso Viejo, California

Very good food and service . I ordered a burrito and a street taco both were very good. Give them a try... you won't be disappointed.

This small, locally owned Mexican food spot really impressed me. I ordered an asada torta, three tacos, and an asada burrito, and everything was flavorful and satisfying. The asada torta was hearty and well-balanced, with tender, seasoned steak and fresh toppings packed into soft bread. The tacos were a great mix -- two chicken and one carnitas -- and each one had bold, authentic flavor. The chicken was juicy and well-seasoned, while the carnitas were tender with that classic slow-cooked richness. The asada burrito was filling and generously portioned, with perfectly cooked steak and a great ratio of meat to fillings. Overall, the food tasted fresh and made with care, and the portions were generous for the price. You can tell this is a small business that takes pride in what they serve. I would definitely come back and highly recommend it if you're looking for quality Mexican food and want to support a local spot. read more

The food here is EXCELLENT! Super fresh and tasty. Wonderful friendly people; nice clean dining room, very chill local place to get my Mexican favorite dishes. I had the suadero tacos, chips and salsa with a side of guac. Holy heaven it was all so DELICIOUS! Excellent portions and quick to come out of the kitchen. Loved EVERY bite and kept me satisfied for the rest of the day. Going back for breakfast, because if that lunch was any indication, I know it is going to be amazing! read more

A La Brava Mexican Kitchen - Two Suadero tacos. So delish, fresh and satisfied my taco crave. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Aliso Viejo, California

See all

Food is so amazing. Came back again after 4 months the food quality is still same. The chicken taco was perfectly spiced and juicy according to hubby. I had the Taco Huerto, the veggies were julienned and cooked just the right amount of tender and spiced the way I ordered. Condessa taco was awesome too the shrimp were perfectly paired with hash potatoes The service as usual is excellent. Will be back definitely even though it's far from my neighborhood Long Beach read more

See all

I was a little bit cautious when trying Mexican food in the city. It's hard to find anything authentic in South Orange County. The decorations are sparse, which makes me think it was going to be decent versus a place that was overly decorated. Staff was very friendly and offered suggestions about the different items that they had. The order at the register, take a seat, and then they bring you your food. The service was outstanding, kept checking in to see how we were doing. Five stars for that. The food was also outstanding. Great flavors, fresh food, I've been here twice now and both times the food was really good. I even got items I would not have ordered the second time around and really happy with that. The salsa is tasty, they're hot. Will sneak up on you. Definitely worth checking out. read more

A cute and modern hole in the wall with good service and higher quality food. We tried the street tacos and enchiladas - highlights were the carne asafa flavor. The brisket an carnitas also didn't disappoint. The enchiladas were in a red sauce that has a nice, light spice. We'd come back again for sure. read more

A La Brava Mexican Kitchen - Birria enchiladas with chips - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Aliso Viejo, California

I can't tell you how many times I've passed A LA BRAVA, mentally slapped a Post-it note on it, and told myself: I need to try this place. Like most Post-its... it vanished. Even if it were a 1622 Spanish gold bar from the Nuestra Señora de Atocha, stamped with the royal seal of Seville, it would still go poof if I didn't act in the moment. This time, I finally walked in. First impression: quiet confidence. Not trying too hard. Just the rhythm of a place that knows what it's doing. I asked the obvious question: "What does A la Brava mean?" Miguel (Señor Miguel Fabuloso) explained it: literally "the brave way." Idiomatically: do it boldly. Forcefully. Maybe even recklessly. No permission. No hedging. I translated it into baseball: "So... swinging for the fence." He nodded. And the food matches that nod. These are dishes that commit. Big flavor, confident seasoning, no apologies. The menu has heavy hitters like chilaquiles, huevos divorciados, and a breakfast burrito/bowl with salsa macha that tells you the kitchen is playing at a higher level. Seeing his other concept Eighty One Cafe... yeah. This is an entrepreneur-chef with real flair. And it's happening in Aliso Viejo. Try it. Study the menu. Taste it. read more

See all

A friend recommended this place and it was great! I ordered the torta Classico with grilled chicken and a side of rice and beans. The torta was packed with delicious ingredients and the rice and beans were flavorful. The salsas were very tasty especially the green one. The lady at the register was very nice and helpful. The restaurant is small but clean and comfortable. I will definitely be returning. read more

A La Brava Mexican Kitchen - Torta Classico with a side of rice and beans - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Aliso Viejo, California

Food is delicious and authentic. I would return to and will try other dishes as well. read more

A La Brava Mexican Kitchen - Yummy food - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Aliso Viejo, California

Yesssss!!!! Yummy, quick easy, service is great! Spot is cute and clean. Garlic shrimp taco Birria Enchiladas their salsa, on point! Definitely will be back read more

A La Brava is the latest Mexican gem tucked inside a shopping center. We went there for breakfast but couldn't decide whether we wanted a savory or sweet meal. So, we did both! We had the chilaquiles rojos and the banana/berry crepe. The chilaquiles were crispy and addictive, and the crepe had just the right amount of sweetness with fresh berries. We will definitely return to try the other items on the menu. Ps. I tried the chilaquiles before taking the pic read more

A La Brava Mexican Kitchen - Chilaquiles rojos - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Aliso Viejo, California

See all

We really enjoyed eating here! We came at sorta in between lunch and dinner and it wasn't busy. The staff was friendly, and it was very easy to order at the counter. The food arrived at our table very quickly and everything was delicious. We tried the salsa, guacamole, street tacos, birria, and the prawns and enjoyed everything. Will definitely come back. read more

Amazing Tacos!! We ordered the 7 tacos for $18 and it was plenty for 2 people. Plus we ordered the salsa chips and beans. Supporting local restaurants! It's worth coming to! Very nice staff. read more

A La Brava Mexican Kitchen - 7 taco plate - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Aliso Viejo, California

See all

It's a small, fairly new place. I frequent the chiropractor across the parking lot, so there o was hungry! I was unable to read the menu so the nice girl at the front helped me decide. We went with the quesadillas with a side of beans and rice, and the only salad on the menu! Super yummy, I loved all of it! Had to take half to go because it was a lot, but they use fresh ingredients and cheese is great. I dudes chicken to my quesadilla, it was too salty for me but it comes with bell peppers and topped with pickled onions. Very yummy! I loved the salad! Lots of variety kind of sweet but also delicious! The girl came by to check on me, she was very friendly and sweet! I highly recommend and hope to be back for the crepes next time! read more

The food was delicious! My son and I came in for lunch. I had the torta and he had the quesabirria. He devoured it. He had never had horchata before and the lady at the counter was kind enough to give him a sample. He loved it. I had Jamaica as my drink and she asked what sweetness level I preferred, which was super helpful. I can't wait to go back and try something from the breakfast menu. read more

A La Brava Mexican Kitchen - Torta and Jamaica - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Aliso Viejo, California

Burrito was delicious and the staff was incredibly friendly. Very clean and pleasant atmosphere. Totally recommend!

Amazingly Delicious! Very authentic with excellent presentation. The four tacos: Condesa, San Felipe, Del Barrio and Del Huerto are a great combo for two people. The sauces are all made on premises and it shows. Miguel is very friendly and happy to share what makes each dish special. This place is a find! Highly recommended! read more

We found this on yelp as the location is a bit hidden and I never look that way. We always like trying new places. This place opened 5 months ago. We ordered breakfast burrito, french toast tres leche, and more. It was all delicious. The only thing I would say could be improved is the coffee was lukewarm, and I like piping hot coffee. Service could be improved. It is small but clean and inviting space. We will go back. read more

See all

Great quality food and great staff! Will come again. I'm just critical for the $8 horchata drink. That's too much!

Taco Tuesday here is fantastic--great deals and seriously delicious tacos that keep me coming back. I've been several times since my first visit, and they never disappoint. The spot feels welcoming and authentic tucked right in the corner of the shopping center. If you're in the area looking for tacos, this place is worth hitting up repeatedly. Highly recommend! Service is always fast and attentive . -EZ read more

Very good authentic Mexican restaurant. You can tell the owner cares a lot about his business and customers. All meals tasted like homemade grandma recipes. Chilaquiles were good! read more

Great food, the breakfast burritos are delicious and the chilaquiles wonderful. Highly recommend their breakfast food.

My friend told me about this place and their menu looked interesting. I was excited to try. I'm so glad I did. It was such a great find. The food was super authentic and fresh, and it came out fast even though everything tasted made from scratch. The owner was really friendly and clearly takes a lot of pride in what he does. The place was clean and tastefully decorated, and the prices were really reasonable for how good the food was. The birria was full of flavor. Can't wait to go back. I'll be telling everyone we finally have a nice authentic spot for incredible birria and creative Mexican food in Aliso Viejo. read more

A La Brava Mexican Kitchen - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Aliso Viejo, California

See all

Very good quality Mexican food. The place is very clean and has a great vibe to it, and the workers there are very friendly and welcoming. I personally got the carne asada torta, and for $15 it was very very good. I had also had the quesabirria quesadillas and they are very flavorful and come with consome. The green salsa is very mild but you can ask for a spicy habanero salsa if you want more heat. I highly recommend this place and will definitely be coming back read more

I never write review, but I had to for this restaurant. They opened 9 months ago and we just stumbled upon it yesterday. The chef is from Mexico City and the food truly reminded us for being there. They even have suadero!!! The food is amazing and I'm so happy bc we don't have the best Mexican food in Laguna niguel area usually. Will be our new spot. The tacos and enchiladas were amazing can't wait to try the rest of the menu. read more

Love this spot - not just another taco shop (I do love taco shops) but you can tell the kitchen team / chef has a dialed in culinary background and the quality / taste / presentation of their product shows everytime - so glad they are in the neighborhood read more

Food was super fresh and flavors were unique and delicious! Great service and super friendly staff. What a gem! Will be a new favorite.

The food was really good, the quality and amount you get for the money was worth it! I'll be back for sure!

Great little place with delicious food! The salsa, taquitos and tacos were yummy! Try them! You won't be disappointed!