If you're looking for incredible, authentic Mexican food with stellar customer care, Basil is an absolute must-try! From the moment you walk in, you feel the warm, family-friendly atmosphere. The owner, Guzman, is super friendly and speaks both English and Spanish, and his daughter Alison was running the register like a total pro--she's all business in the best way! Now, let's talk about the food: The Secret Salsa: Absolutely hit the spot! Savory with just the right amount of kick. Chilaquiles: My dad ordered these and was blown away. He got them with two sauces, and he particularly loved the red sauce, which was al estilo Oaxaca mole. They cooked his eggs exactly to order and accommodated his request for extra raw onions alongside all the delicious classic toppings (sour cream and queso fresco). Drinks: They have a great variety of soft drinks, including Diet Coke and Coke Zero. (If you're looking for coffee, definitely stop by right when they open, as they might be replenishing inventory later in the day!) A quick heads-up for first-timers: The dining area can run a bit warm and there are no public restrooms at this location, so plan accordingly. However, that wouldn't deter us for a second--the chips, salsa, and overall quality are way too good to pass up. It was great seeing local regulars picking up to-go orders while we were there. Working just down the road on Studebaker, I know I am going to be a frequent regular from now on. Classy place, amazing flavor, and wonderful people--we will definitely be back as often as we can! read more

ATTENTION YELPERS: Basil Pizza and Mexican food is a literal hidden gem in the middle of a random shopping center on Los Coyotes Diagonal and Carson Blvd in Long Beach. I've literally driven past it thousands of times; however, I didn't even give it a second glance until last week. Somehow, it slipped past my radar despite having 130 reviews at an average of 4.8 stars. The reason for this is simple: I have no interest in eating tacos from a pizza spot. The good news is that they're pivoting away from the pizza and leaning into the Mexican food. In particular, this family-owned shop is going to increasingly offer Oaxacan food that reflects their roots. Their menu still has a hodge podge offering of quesadillas, enchiladas, tortas, omelets, and tacos; however, skip these items and look to the whiteboard that features their specials. Look for the hidden gems at this hidden gem. Seek out items that feature the Oaxacan flavors as these are outstanding and special. I went with their mole enchilada with chicken and the mole was so rich and flavorful. Because most reviewers talk about their quesabirria taco, I ordered one, despite not really enjoying birria. I have to say that their quesabirria tacos have wonderfully savory flavor and they're worth getting. Costs of their food can be high, but they use good quality meat and ingredients here. Everything is made to order. Therein are their drawbacks: there can be a wait time for your order. The other thing that needs to improve is that their best items - their Oaxacan offerings - aren't even on a regular menu and we need that to change ASAP. From their regular menu, I will definitely reorder their quesabirria tacos and their mole enchilada; however, I want to have their Oaxacan cheese quesadillas as well. Most of all, I want to see the Oaxacan items that I can't get anywhere else. Overall, this is an absolute hidden gem, and it won't be able to exist indefinitely unless it gets more of a following. If this happens, then I think they can improve their signage, they can appropriately/accurately market themselves, and they can offer more Oaxacan-centric foods. I definitely want to be there for all of that! In the meantime, go check out this hidden gem as this is exactly what yelp is about! read more

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This place is in the corner of a neighborhood strip mall. It's small but mighty. The owner was there to walk us through the menu and we ended up getting the Birria taco plate with 2 tacos, rice, and beans. We also got 2 fish tacos. First, the chips and salsa were authentic. I love it when the chips have just enough salt these did, and little bubbles on them meaning they are house-made. The salsa was outstanding. The fish tacos were what I would call medium sized street tacos but had fish and de-seeded tomatoes, lettuce, and sauce piled so high I had to use a fork to finish eating it. But the Birria... the Birria. That taco was full of meat and melty cheese. The meat was seasoned perfectly and was so so tender. The beans that came with it were so good I wished I wasn't sharing them. I can tell the owner cares a lot about making authentic food. He told us about his mole and pozole. We are going to add this restaurant to our eating-out rotation. read more

Basil Mexican Food - Top-Birria tacos, bottom-fish tacos. Both 5/5 winners! - Salad Near Me - Lakewood, California

Moved into the area a few years ago and was having a hard time finding real, authentic Mexican food. Well, let me tell you - we found it!! It's a little place called "Basil Pizza & Mexican Food" in the corner of Carson and Los Coyotes Diagonal (near the fish store and liquor shop). We had seen it before and finally decided to try it. We ordered the Pork Costillas in green salsa, a carne asada torta, and pozole. Food was delicious!! It reminded me of a homemade meal. It also came with chips and salsas that were all spot on. We met the father, Guzman, (owner & chef) and his two daughters, who were all very kind. You could just tell that they made the food with so much love! Everything is made on the spot and that is reflected in the outstanding quality of the food. Don't be fooled by the name. At one point they sold both pizza/mexican food but due to financial struggles they were forced to cut back and decided to focus on their specialty, Mexican. By the sound of it, they may be struggling with getting the word out about their establishment. Sharing so neighbors can come give this place a try! You won't regret it :) read more

Basil Mexican Food - Costillitas de puerco en salsa verde (Small Pork ribs in green sauce) - Salad Near Me - Lakewood, California

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Being active on social media comes with its ups and downs, but this time, it was truly for a worthwhile cause. My sister sent me a video about the owner of a family-run restaurant that is on the brink of closure. After watching it, I couldn't help but think of ways to contribute. The following day, I verified their hours and assured them that I would come in, even if it would be right before closing. I placed an order for two birria consomés, a birria quesadilla, and it was accompanied by chips, salsas, lime, and tortillas. To my delight, I even received a token of appreciation--a beautiful Oaxaca plant. Once I got home and unpacked the food, I have to say, this is undoubtedly one of the best birrias I've ever tasted. The experience was truly touching; I felt warmly welcomed not only by the owner but also by his wife and daughters, who are all incredibly family-oriented. I made a commitment to return. I highly recommend visiting this place--it's a hidden gem that you might overlook, but if you check on Yelp for the address, you'll be directed right to the restaurant. read more

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As another review mentioned, the fact that there isn't a line out the door is astonishing! The food is soooo good and authentically Mexican. We had the green salsa and mole chilaquiles, and both were hands down some of the best we've had in a long time. The rice and beans which I usually overlook were super delicious too. I'm an horchata snob and this horchata was one of the best I've had. It's a small place with a few tables but the owner was very friendly and made us feel welcome. I don't live in the area but I'm already planning our next visit. read more

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It is absolutely unbelievable to me that there was not a line out the door and around the corner for this place. OUTSTANDING food. My little guy and I split the Quesabirria combo after seeing a photo of the dish posted here that made our tummies growl. It came out incredibly fast and was piping hot. It was cooked to perfection- crispy outside, super tender meat, gooey cheese. The birria consomé was so flavorful and not super greasy like some I've tried at other places. I could've just drunk the consumé by itself! lol It wasn't spicy at all- my 6-year-old downed his taco and I ordered him another. I was also offered their salsas and got a green one- really tasty. The rice and beans were on point too and I'm a snob about my rice and beans lol It takes a lot for me to be happy with them! The service was super friendly, kind and accommodating. I live for these little family-owned places and will choose them 1000 times over the big chains. Cannot wait to come back and bring the rest of the family! Run, don't walk. This is a MUST try!! read more

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My husband and I tried this place for the first time today and it was absolutely delicious. We both ordered the mole enchiladas with beef and it did not disappoint. The side of rice it came with was good too. We will definitely be back and can't wait to try other items on the menu. Great customer service too! read more

I wanted to like it here but I was dissatisfied. First let me start with price. A torta and fish plate for $35 is too much. Torta didn't even have that much meat. And was way too sour because it had a lot of lemon. And why lettuce? As far as the fish, it was so fried that I couldn't really take it apart because the meat was stuck to the bone. The owner was nice and after I told him my issue he was trying to make it right by making me another plate but I just didn't care for the taste. So I left when done. If you plan on dining here it is very small and cannot accommodate too many people. read more

Basil Mexican Food - Torta had lemon and very little meat. Not good - Salad Near Me - Lakewood, California

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The Food was phenomenal! I ordered the Quesobirria plate and got an orange fanta. Everything was soo delicious. The portions were huge and loaded with a lot of meat. The service was absolutely great! While waiting for my food to be done, I got free salsa and chips. I highly recommend this place. First time here and will be going back. read more

Basil Mexican Food - Quesobirria plate - Salad Near Me - Lakewood, California

I love this place great food amazing service one of me and my moms favorite places now

I drove passed here and decided to stop. Enjoyed my torta. Really like how the owner engages with his customers. Cool dude! It's small, but it's a cute layout. read more

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The best Mexican food spot in Lakewood is Basil Pizza and Mexican Food, don't let the pizza name fool you. The are focusing now on what they do best the Mexican side of the menu and were NOT disappointed. First up: The Birria Taco Plate. Juicy, savory, and the dipping consommé is mandatory. Then, these vibrant Red Chilaquiles with the perfect egg on top. And for the brunch classic: Killer Huevos Rancheros with red and green sauce. Serious Mexican food game. Go check them out! read more

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Hidden gem in Lakewood! I had such an amazing experience at Basil Pizza & Mexican Food in Lakewood, CA. The food was incredible and the service was just as good--friendly, welcoming, and genuinely attentive. Let's talk about the homemade chips and salsa for a second... hands down the best I've had in a long time. Fresh, perfectly crispy chips and a salsa that clearly isn't coming out of a jar--you can taste the care and flavor in every bite. Everything we ordered was delicious and well-made, and you can tell this is a place that takes pride in what they serve. It's the kind of spot you want to come back to again and again, whether you're craving pizza, Mexican food, or both. If you're in the Lakewood area and haven't been here yet, do yourself a favor and check it out. This place deserves all the love. read more

Basil Mexican Food - Salad Near Me - Lakewood, California

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Fantastic spot!! Looks to be a small family run business. When I hear people talking about orders from the front yelling order to abulita in the back of know food will hit!! Got the quesobirra taco really good great flavor super fresh and hot, but the star of the show was the beans omg these beans were so bomb. I wish I would've gotten a bean and cheese burrito. The beans had so much flavor!!! It is hard to find a place with amazing beans. I would buy a tub of the beans for parties. This place is worth a drive come down just don't forget to get the beans!! read more

Basil Mexican Food - Quesobirra taco plate bomb!! - Salad Near Me - Lakewood, California

Really disappointing experience. I had high hopes for Basil and genuinely wanted to support a small local spot, but I won't be going back. The food was subpar across the board. The chips appeared to come from a bag rather than being made in-house, and instead of being properly cooked or tossed in green salsa, the sauce was just poured over a few of them. The eggs were completely flavorless, and the chicken tasted like pre-cut packaged meat. Nothing about this meal felt fresh or made from scratch. All of that for $22.85 was a real letdown. On top of the food, the experience at the counter was off. I called ahead as I was leaving the gym, and when I arrived 8 minutes later, they hadn't even started my order. I didn't hear anything start cooking until after I had already paid. The whole vibe felt strange and unwelcoming. I really wanted to support this place, but between the quality of the food and the experience, I can't recommend it. read more

Basil Mexican Food - Bland chicken..I served myself on a separate plate. - Salad Near Me - Lakewood, California

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I learned about this place from the daughter's tiktok. I HAD to support a new local Latino owned business!!! The food was delicious and are pretty good portions. Came here with my parents and kiddos. Dad ordered the veggie omelet and my mom ordered a torta. They were out of bread, but the owner had several other options for my mom. The (not hungry) kiddos had the tacos de papa and rice and beans. The owner was very welcoming, friendly, and humble. We had a nice conversation with him in between his other customers. It's a small but quaint establishment. We're definitely going to come back. I highly recommend!!! read more

Basil Mexican Food - The asada fries after I had taken several bites - Salad Near Me - Lakewood, California

The food was really good and authentic! The tortilla chips were fresh. The salsa was tasty. I got the green chicken enchiladas and tried a pastor taco and both hit! You can tell they use quality ingredients. It's worth a visit! We will definitely be back. read more

Pretty great quesadillas- I got a chicken and a cheese with a special request to make it spicy with some serranos. My friends said the chicken was good, and my cheese was quite solid but I wish it had some more serranos. Or perhaps the VERY NICE gentleman who made it underestimated my high spice tolerance. The salsa was also good. I was there in the afternoon so I missed the oaxacan coffee, but for sure I'm trying that next time. The food is all made with a nod to the stylings and culinary traditions of Oaxaca. The gentleman who took my order and made the food was so very nice too! Please come and try this super cute spot at the corner of Los coyotes and Carson. There's a small interior with some tables and an outdoor table as well. read more

Basil Mexican Food - Salad Near Me - Lakewood, California

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I have lived so close to this place for so long and I finally decided to stop in. I believe it is strictly Mexican food now, no pizza, but it's OK still my favorite type of food. It was close to closing time, and the food came out fresh and hot, none of it tasted pre-packaged, it all tasted like home cooking. The service was good, the girls inside were friendly and the chef even came out to check on us. It is in a small little shopping place, and kid of hidden but, it is well worth the drive. read more

Been wanting to visit..Today was the day! The food was beyond amazing great flavor OMG !!!! I'm telling you this place is a hidden GEM I can't wait to try other options the Guzmans are a Amazing family from Oaxaca, which one of my favorite places to visit see you again!!!! read more

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My wife and I had been meaning to try this place for a bit now and finally had the opportunity to go. I'm so glad we did. The food was fantastic! I ordered the quesabirria tacos and my wife ordered the chilaquiles with green salsa based on the recommendation of the owner, Guzman. Both dishes were simply amazing, Authentic flavors and the presentation was wonderful. My toddler had an asada taco with rice and beans and demolished it. Service was fantastic, Guzman was very helpful and kind. You can tell he takes pride in the quality of his food and it shows. This is definitely going into the rotation of places to grab a bite to eat. The ambiance was great, felt very homey and hole-in the-wall in the best way possible. If anyone is on the fence about trying it out, try it, you will not be disappointed! read more

Basil Mexican Food - Quesabirria tacos - Salad Near Me - Lakewood, California

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The service and food was amazing! The barbacoa enchiladas and the quesabirria tacos were great. We also tried the pozole and it was delicious. The family that runs the restaurant was extremely nice. Forget the pizza. The Mexican food was awesome! Don't forget the agua frescas. read more

I ordered the asada tacos and chicken taquitos and it was amazing! Some of the best cooked food. Nothing overcooked and everything is full of flavor. I recommend the green sauce as it adds a lot to many dishes. My partner got the chilaquiles and they had a vibrant flavor and crunchy chips with the sauce. The nice man who helped us was very helpful and explained each dish and the shop. The ambiance is just a cute small shop with 4 tables and the best smell coming from the kitchen. Your nose will lead you here. read more

Basil Mexican Food - Chilaquiles - Salad Near Me - Lakewood, California

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Food was great! Got Asada fries, some tacos - fish, carne carnitas, and potato - all were delicious. I will definitely be coming back to try the rest of their menu. read more

I am a lover of all things Mexican food, so I've been looking for a new spot to try out, and stumbled across this gem on Yelp! All I have to say is everyone must try this incredible place, if you're local to Lakewood and Long Beach! Hands down some of the best Mexican food I've ever had, made with love by the owner and his family, and high quality ingredients that you can immediately taste in your mouth! The service by Guzman and his daughters makes you feel like you're at home eating a home cooked meal, and th ambiance is peaceful and welcoming. Everything you'd expect from a prideful family owned establishment! I had two carne asada tacos and two barbacoa tacos which melted in my mouth with authentic Oaxacan flavor. My husband had a carne asada torta which he said is the best torta he's ever had in his life, and I go to sneak a couple of bites from it too! read more

Basil Mexican Food - Two carne asada tacos and two Barbacoa tacos - Salad Near Me - Lakewood, California

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Came here on a whim, "food near me." It was amazing... we had the delicious coffee, sweet bread as well as pozole and tacos... the chicken tacos we stuffed with meat and they were so delicious. We at them too quickly to take a picture. The pozole was on point as well. We will definitely be return customers! read more

Basil Mexican Food - Pozole - Salad Near Me - Lakewood, California

Really warm hospitality. I haven't experienced that in a long time and would love to see that more often. I felt very welcomed as if I was eating at someone's home. Food was fresh. I love the old school service here. Definitely recommend read more

Basil Mexican Food - Salad Near Me - Lakewood, California

The family that owns and runs this restaurant are bursting with pride, and it's clear to see why. Their family recipes from their roots in Oaxaca are made fresh every day, and are bursting with flavor. It's a very tiny little spot with two tables inside (but three outside) so it's very cozy. The owner, Guzman, told us that he loves cooking, if there is a dish you're craving, give them a call and he'll do his best to accommodate you. His daughter told us everything is made daily; the meats are set to marinade in the morning and dishes are made once they are ordered so no meat is ever reheated. The chips and salsa are free with every meal, and the homemade salsa is out of this world. We got the carne asada tacos and they brought out green sauce which was perfect; tangy and zesty. I also tried the beef pozole, the chunks of beef were so tender, they would fall apart with your fork. I swear they had been in a slow cooker overnight. We're planning on bringing our kids here and making this hidden treasure part of our weekly lineup. read more

5 stars for the customer service! You'll rarely find folks who care if youre happy with your food. I love Spanish rice and refried beans! And now I know where to go when I crave it. Also their chips are made FRESH!! I dont like bagged or stale chips, but theirs are best chips Ive had! Their cheese enchilada was solid, its definitely the healthy style! Ill be coming back to try more food. I love supporting mom & pops places!! read more

Basil Mexican Food - I LOVE THEIR RICE & BEANS!!! - Salad Near Me - Lakewood, California

I really wish I took a photo of my food, but I was so hungry and the food was incredible I couldn't!! I ordered two fish tacos with rice and beans, everything was delicious! The fish tacos weren't soggy and kept a nice crisp, the creamy chipotle sauce used is fantastic with lime, and the tortillas kept these massive tacos together!!! Aside from their delicious food, I also had a wonderful experience with their service. The food came out in less than 10 minutes and I was served my bottled drink despite being able to get it myself lol Incredible service and even better food, I'm definitely coming back with friends and family!! read more

I must say the tacos were delicious. We got one of asada, carnitas, pastor and birra. All of the had good flavor. The server gave us some chips and salsa while we wait for our food, that's a plus in my book. We also order a birra burrito. It was all delicious the meat was nice and tender and the flavors were spot on. I would definitely recommend this place. They also had homemade horchata, yummy. The only this I would recommend to the over is too some salt on the salsas it will bring out even more the flavor. The spice is on point for sure just needed salt because it was bland. Once I added salt, killer salsa read more

My husband I stopped here for lunch today. We both had the quesabirria tacos. Was service with chips and dipping sauce. Excellent. Delicious!!! We will definitely be back!! read more

Basil Mexican Food - We stopped here for lunch and got the quesabirria tacos. Excellent!!! Delicious. We will definitely be back!! - Salad Near Me - Lakewood, California

Great service and food as always! The birria tacos are delicious and they aren't shy with their portions! Gustavo Guzman is the man! read more

Basil Mexican Food - Salad Near Me - Lakewood, California

Yes!! Tacos and chips were incredible- so satisfying!! Thrilled this gem is less than a five minute drive away. read more

Basil is just too good to pass up--we'll definitely keep coming back to try more of the menu! This was our second visit and my husband loved the perfectly cooked huevos rancheros with rice and beans. I ordered the special of mole enchiladas with rice and the Oaxacan mole was incredible! Just the right amount of spice with a sweet finish. I can't wait to come back and try the spicier red mole. And don't skip the café de la olla--it's a must! Service is great too--such a lovely family that deserves our support. read more

Basil Mexican Food - Huevos Rancheros - Salad Near Me - Lakewood, California

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I've been driving past this place for a few weeks now and finally made it a point to stop in. The location is small and simple with 2 tables inside and 2 outside but is very clean and appealing. Tried the Asada Torta and it was oh so good! Reminded me of my family's homemade food . You can absolutely tell the ingredients are all fresh and I plan to come back to try their other options. One thing to note is that they no longer do their pizza/Italian style items, only Mexican food menu. Service was quick and friendly. Highly recommend supporting this local, family run business! You won't be disappointed. read more

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10/10 birria tacos were absolutely delicious! And I love how there were huge chunks of meat in the consumé Not far from my house, awesome foood, and even better customer service! read more

Basil Mexican Food - Birria tacos - Salad Near Me - Lakewood, California

This place is a GEM! The owner is very nice and welcoming, service is amazing! AND THE FOOD is absolutely incredible! Starting with the tomato sauce that was served with the tortilla chips ( I wanted to buy a jar right away) Everything is Fresh, not overpowered with anything extra. The meat is tender and juicy, the fish crispy and fresh, the beans and rice made to perfection, I wish we lived close by so we can eat here more often. Can't wait to come back for more :) read more

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Family owned Gem !! Tucked away in a strip mall off of Carson St - and Los Coyotes west of Long Beach Towne Center - The food is downright amazing - definitely home Cooking - not a fast food taco shop with the same old stuff with a drive thru - I hear they have Breakfast served all day on real plates - Birria beef that is slow cooked and lovingly prepared by Chef Guzman using only fresh quality ingredients - I enjoyed Queso Birria taco and consomme which was juicy and delicious, not full of fat and topped with the freshest veggies chopped to order - the cheese pull was Glorious - all the Food was made to order, also a Fish Taco super fresh and basically filling for two tacos, rice and beans - this is not an assembly line station - if you're in a hurry call ahead to order take out - you won't be disappointed- But if you have the time, treat yourself, and enjoy your hot food inside or outside, there are tables and umbrella outside too. - read more

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