The only reason we ended up here is because we found a parking spot. Dark and loud inside it was a popular place to be on a Saturday night. We didn't have reservations and waited about 10 mins and Sat at the bar. As a plus size person I was comfortable at the bar. Service was good, fun watching the guys work the line and the bartender slinging his drinks. Service was good. We had a vodka tonic and Michelada. We ordered the sampler and the queso. Was more than enough for a meal. The taquitos and fried shrimp things were so so good. Such a happy accident to end up here. read more

Awful service food took 1 hour and lots of attitude and no refills. Very small portions of food for that long of a wait

Consistent mexican restaurant near main beach in Laguna. Boasts fresh + hot chips and an upscale mexican dining experience. Their crispy taco plate is elevated with homemade crispy tortillas. Their meats are consistently moist and flavorful. Oooo fyi for any under 21 peeps... they want ID for that 0.0% alcohol heineken thing read more

Carmelita's - Beer, Wine & Spirits Near Me - Laguna Beach, California

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Amazing service Rodi was the best! Definitely a must in Laguna Beach! Great food and ambiance

Horrible place ,horrible customer service, expensive food not worth it , real authentic food get it somewhere else!!! Not all what I expected it, definitely just the name of the city is what they're charging you for. Not all that definitely I do not recommend it!!! read more

This was our first time we enjoyed the experience. The food was delicious and the service in ambience was enjoyable. read more

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After our ride down PCH, my husband and I stopped at the Downtown Village in Laguna Beach to walk around, and we stumbled across Carmelita's. We requested outdoor seating because the day was gorgeous and it's across the street from the beach area. There was no wait on Saturday afternoon, and we were seated right away by the lovely host. Complimentary chips, salsa, and black beans were brought to our table. We opted to order guacamole and a couple of drinks. The guacamole serving is huge and easily shareable among four people. We were so hungry; we impulse ordered and did not expect the serving to be as big as it was. I ordered a blackberry margarita, which packed a punch - if you enjoy a strong drink, this one's for you. My husband's spicy mango margarita was more balanced. He did not scrunch his face after the first sip like me. While the food was delicious, I recommend sharing as the portions are quite generous. I ordered the crispy chimichanga with chicken, and they offered me a choice of shredded or whole pieces of chicken. I went with shredded, and it was quite tasty. Halfway through, I was already stuffed. It's served over rice and topped with sour cream, queso fresco, pico de gallo, and guac. My husband had the short rib enchiladas, which come with two enchiladas and a serving of beans and rice. It's worth noting that the beans and rice are excellent. I've been to many Mexican restaurants where the food is great but falls short with the sides. Here, the rice is buttery, and the black beans have great flavor. Next time we're in Laguna, Carmelita's is a must-visit. It's an ideal spot to enjoy a couple of drinks and share starters or main plates with some friends. If the weather is nice, I recommend sitting outside, but the interior ambiance is equally inviting. read more

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I had the misfortune of dining here yesterday it was very small for portions and the food was bland. Everything was very low flavor. I think the refried beans came from a can, but even Costco refried beans are better than these were, the rice with peas and carrots look like it came from a freezer bag and again no flavor. I got the beef short rib Enchiladas. Which again were very small and the only thing that had any flavor was the sauce on top, which was marginal. The only highlight to the whole meal was the chips and salsa and black beans that they brought before the meal. I definitely would never go there again. I would definitely save your money and go to chipotle. At least the food has flavor there. read more

Always great ambiance and friendly staff! Can never turn down a table on the patio and a margarita here. :)

Food Good but "Pricy". Cocktails good but $18 + for a cocktail. Nice decor. Was not happy when the check arrived and there was a $3 service fee added to the bill. What was that for? We paid cash. Prices are already high, now we have to pay a service fee? read more

Carmelita's - Food Menu - Beer, Wine & Spirits Near Me - Laguna Beach, California

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I really wish I had checked the 1-star reviews beforehand. I came in thinking the food was going to be good, but I was honestly disappointed. The service was great--our waiter really took care of us--but the food was not it. It didn't taste authentic at all and reminded me of the kind of "Mexican food" you'd get at a hometown buffet. The salsas were horrible, and overall the flavors just didn't feel right. I should've gone to Urth Café instead. Food: 1/10 Cocktails: 7/10 Service: 8.5/10 read more

Carmelita's - Beer, Wine & Spirits Near Me - Laguna Beach, California

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Came here with some family who were in town on the recommendation of a local who worked at an art store in Laguna Beach. And Carmelita's did not disappoint! My family was so impressed with this spot. The space is really gorgeous, rustic, and classic-looking. We ordered the La Parillada, a grill for 2 filled with steak, chicken, shrimp, spicy cheese, and corn. It easily fed the three of us! It also came with lots of tortillas. We also ordered the Short Rib Enchiladas because we heard they were legendary. My family members loved them, but they were a little to spicy for me personally. All in all, a great lunch! read more

I ate street tacos all over Laguna Beach on my trip and the best I had was the grilled fish taco here. Great service. Must stop when in this town. read more

Terrible food! The guacamole is a joke. Maybe made many hours ago...We politely asked if they have a fresh one and server came with exactly the same one saying they made it in front of him. Fish tacos and shrimp taquitos were not good at all. No idea how this place is with so many good reviews. read more

Was very surprised by how delicious the food was here! Apps, drinks, entrees. All of it was so great! Only drawback is the side portions like rice and beans are much smaller than I expected. Will definitely be coming back here soon! read more

I've been to Carmelita's many times and their food is always great. Every time I've ordered the Pollo A La Chipotle and my friends have always agreed that it's the best chicken breast they've eaten, but I'm disappointed that they no longer serve it with the stuffed cheese pepper as that was one of my favorite parts of the dish as well. I hope they can bring that back! read more

Carmelita's - Pollo A La Chipotle (front) and Short Rib Enchiladas (back) - Beer, Wine & Spirits Near Me - Laguna Beach, California

Staying nearby with a small dog, I searched for restaurants that are pet friendly. With no opinion on the type of food, we were so surprised that we never knew of Carmelita's although we have visited Laguna Beach dozens of times. We sat on the patio and were promptly greeted by Rhodi, who made dinner a great experience! We had a couple of Margaritas with short rib enchiladas and a short rib chimichanga. The delicious chips, bean dip and salsa to start were complimentary which was a surprise. Everything was great which makes this a place to visit every time we are in town. read more

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Good atmosphere, friendly, professional staff. Many choices from the menu and great food.

Came here for brunch after a hike and the complimentary chips, salsa, and bean dip was the perfect appetizer to help our ravenous appetites! Chips were warm and crispy. The bean dip was so tasty! And they were generous with refills too! I almost got full scarfing down the chips and dip alone. Friend and I split the huevos rancheros and chilaquiles (with egg). In hindsight, the chilaquiles was not a smart move because I already had so many chips and dip already. But they were pretty good, I just couldn't have that many chips. Only had a little bit of the huevos rancheros because it looked like there was some ground meat in there. I thought huevos rancheros is normally vegetarian but I guess I was wrong here. I also didn't tell the server I was vegetarian so maybe my bad. Service was super friendly. Not hard to find metered parking nearby. Patio is dog friendly. read more

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Made a reservation before arriving. Jose was our server and he was welcoming and spent a great deal of time helping us decide what to eat. He really went above and beyond and we truly enjoyed his company. The appetizers we got were the shrimp taquitos and the stuffed jalapeño with crab and bacon. A bit spicy, so if you like spicy this one is for you. The shrimp taquitos were tasty. There were several items on the menu I would love to try, like the crab and shrimp enchiladas. We will be back! read more

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Carmelita's is a cute indoor/outdoor restaurant right off the exit into Laguna Beach. Outdoor seating is cute, across the street from the ocean, but is right next to a gas station. Their drinks are good (esp the spicy cucumber one.) I got the seafood enchilada and we also got the crispy tacos (which were delish!!) It is a little overpriced, but expected. Super cute indoor dining, would return! read more

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I haven't eaten at Carmelita's since last year and it appears they have changed their menu items. Sad to see the ancho chili ribs are no longer available since they were my favorite. Decided on the Braised Birria Tacos for a to-go order. I was very disappointed with these four tiny "street" tacos that cost $25. That is $6.25 per each tiny taco which is expensive even for regular full-sized tacos. Even worse, they were extremely greasy with very little meat and two of the tacos were just FAT! What a shame their quality is gone. I wonder if there is a new owner or something... read more

Carmelita's - Tiny, greasy & fatty Braised Birria Tacos $25! - Beer, Wine & Spirits Near Me - Laguna Beach, California

Carmelita's is our favorite Mexican food restaurant in Laguna Beach!! we have been going to this restaurant for years. And now our adult children enjoy going as well when they vacation in Laguna. The fajitas were great! And we love your black beans and guacamole. Delicious!! Great service too. read more

Referred to us by a local, it stood up to the hype Delicious margarita and enchilada with steak on top Fresh and such a cool spot! We will be back read more

I was really put off from the start when we came through the door. Three different servers walked straight past us without greeting us. We wouldn't mind waiting at all but we felt deliberately ignored because they would see us but avoid eye contact while walking right by. As for the interior, it's a really beautiful restaurant with nice decor. The music was pretty obnoxious though from all the EDM they played. And for the food, we had the birria tacos and enchiladas. Both tasted really good, but for the expensive price you would expect a good portion that actually made you full. At least they served chips and salsa at the start so you get more to eat. read more

AMAZING FOOD. Was here on a womb for vacation and stopped in randomly... Some of the BEST food we have ever eaten. No lie. All party members agreed. Atmosphere was also worth writing home about and service is top notch. Higher recommend!! read more

Alex , Rodi and Daniel were a pleasure and gave us amazing customer service! Delicious food & drinks.

SO GOOD!!!! absolutely loved my experience and the food I would recommend this spot if you are in Laguna and want a nice sit down dinner!! read more

Carmelita's - Beer, Wine & Spirits Near Me - Laguna Beach, California

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Beautiful day in Laguna Beach could only get better having the Carnitas Tacos. Delicious as always and service was on point!

Nice Mexican restaurant with a view of Laguna Beach. The outdoor area is dog friendly, with great service, but parking is a bit of a challenge. The mahi mahi fish tacos, which come with avocado, cabbage, rice, and beans are good, but two tacos for $28 is on the high side--as that's $14 per taco. I felt like for $28, the meal would have been more of a good value if it included at least three tacos. Other than that, they do have complementary chips and salsa--and the chips are freshly made. Ngl, even though the prices are on the high side, I would return if in the area again. But, if I ever do visit again, I'm getting the steak fajitas! read more

Before work schedules changed this was our go to Mexican date night place. Chips and salsa are delicious, atmosphere is nice but the food every time has been delicious. Numerous times here and one day will be back! read more

Unbelievably great food! Seriously the best meal I've had in ages. Everything was so fresh and delicious. A little pricey but portions were large enough to share. Adorable interior. Lots of seating inside with tables and he bar. Seating out on the patio as well, with heaters when the cool ocean breeze comes along. Rodisela was our waitress and she was positively delightful and attentive. May be heading back tomorrow night! Highly recommend! read more

Carmelita's - Mahi Mahi tacos - Beer, Wine & Spirits Near Me - Laguna Beach, California

Across from the beach in laguna beach, this place has some excellent Mexican food. Came in and was seated outside under an umbrella table. We had 5 people and the waiter brought out an extra chair for us. He was super attentive and helpful. As we were ordering, they brought out some fresh tortilla chips and fresh salsa/bean dip. Super crispy, warm and authentic tasting. I ordered the enchilada which was made just right. read more

Carmelita's - Enchilada - Beer, Wine & Spirits Near Me - Laguna Beach, California

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I ordered a vodka with a "SPLASH" of soda, they charged me $14.00 for the vodka and $2.00 for a splash of soda. 2a la carte chicken tacos chips and salsa $17.00 ripe off tacos were soggy and drink was ridiculous. Have you ever order a cocktail vodka soda and they charge you for the soda??? read more

Had a lovely late evening snack on the patio with the extended fam (the girls and 2 dogs...) So yes, the patio is pet friendly (there were at least 3 other groups with pooches). We just had apps, but all were good. The guac was a very large portion, the street corn was tasty, and the girls liked the ribs (as did the pups like the extra meat). I like that the chips & salsa also come with a bt of beans, something that I see occasionally, but I think it is a nice touch. Drinks were fine, perfectly good margaritas. We'll likely be back, especially since it is open late-ish. read more

The family and I recently visited Carmelita's in LB. We haven't been to the LB location in about 8 years. We didn't have reservations but came on a Tuesday, so luckily they were able to seat us. It wasn't a hot day and was probably in the mid 60s by the time we sat down for dinner. We had a table at the window which was still letting in some daylight. At one point of our dining experience though, it got excessively hot and felt like no air was coming in. It was so uncomfortable for us that we rushed packing the leftovers so we could leave. The restaurant is still as cute as I remember it. Indoor seating is very limited, but I see they've added some outside since Covid. Our server was attentive and checked on us often. Our chips, bean dip and salsa, were always full as was our water. Service was good. FYI - they don't have a dedicated kids menu but will make quesadillas and tacos for them. What we ordered this time; 2 carnitas plates - unfortunately these was very salty and was difficult to eat. We still packed the leftovers so we could repurpose it as a burrito or omelet at home. 1 Chicken quesadilla for the kids. 2 Cesar side salads - the picture I attached doesn't look like a Cesar salad. I sent it back but it came back again, and were told it was in fact a Cesar. So I am not sure what to think. It has some white corn, tomatoes, what looked like Parmesan shavings and tortilla strips. It didn't taste like a Cesar dressing but either way, we ate it and I liked it. It wasn't anything special but good. This time around our food was 3/3.5 stars for us which is still considered good for a rating between 1-5. I would still return but I would likely not order the carnitas and stick to the steak fajitas or the seafood enchiladas and salads. That's what we usually order whenever we visit any of their other locations. read more

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Food was amazing. Great customer service and atmosphere. Would definitely come back again and recommend. Thank you Rodi for providing great customer service and hospitality! read more

Carmelita's - Beer, Wine & Spirits Near Me - Laguna Beach, California

Phenomenal! Best food I had in a long time. I had trio meal and some good wine. Cozy place with great service.

Excellent food, great service and relaxed environment! Portions were large and fortunately they have great takeout containers and a bag to carry it in. read more

Fantastic happy hour and great service. Large portion of nachos. Great ambiance right by the beach. Beautiful location 10/10 read more

Carmelita's - House chips - Beer, Wine & Spirits Near Me - Laguna Beach, California