La Fogata Mexican Restaurant in Corona Del Mar is one of those neighborhood gems that feels welcoming the second you walk in. The owner, Lida, is genuinely super sweet and makes you feel like a regular even if it's your first visit. I ordered the taco plate with carnitas and chicken, and it was seriously delicious. The carnitas were flavorful and satisfying, and the chicken was tender and well-seasoned -- simple, classic Mexican comfort food done right. Everything tasted fresh, and the portion was just the right size. And a fun extra detail: I've heard Kobe Bryant used to eat here and that it was a favorite of his -- which makes it a favorite of mine too. If you're in the area and want great tacos with warm hospitality, La Fogata is absolutely worth a stop. read more

La Fogata - Mexican Near Me - Corona Del Mar, California

Ordered two steak quesadillas and received plain cheese quesadillas with no steak. When I pointed it out, the worker just handed me steak on the side instead of fixing the mistake. I asked if he could remake them correctly and he flat-out refused. When I asked for his name, he said he "doesn't have one." Lazy, rude service and zero accountability. Completely unacceptable. read more

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This is a restaurant with counter ordering and sit down seating. There were low top tables inside and outside with two high tops inside. The place was relatively clean. We found out during our visit that Kobe Bryant was a frequent customer at this restaurant and even helped create a menu item. The food was tasty and we ate our whole meal. Not pictured in my review but the fish taco was slightly dry. I also enjoyed the mild hot sauce provided. It was a pleasant visit. The bathroom is a shared bathroom with the building complex. You have to walk around the back of the building to access the bathroom. read more

La Fogata - Mole and steak taco - Mexican Near Me - Corona Del Mar, California

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Took a long time for some chips and queso and paid $5. Queso was cold, and definitely just pulled out of a fridge and then microwaved. Tostitos tastes better than that read more

After a fun morning power-walking Balboa (because balance ), we rewarded ourselves the only appropriate way, La Fogata, another local favorite spot. My boyfriend went with the chicken kabob plate which was a solid choice. The chicken was tasty, but let's talk about that rice for a second... flavorful, fluffy, and low-key trying to steal the show. He said it was like paella but without the seafood. I, meanwhile, opted for the breakfast tacos with pico. Flavor-wise? Good. Structurally? A little chaotic. Im never a two tortilla girl but this would have been the exception. One tortilla just wasn't enough ... these tacos were living dangerously close to a full collapse. A second tortilla would've saved lives (or at least my plate). The real star for me was the green house salsa. It was fresh, bright, and absolutely addictive. I happily poured it on everything, and gratefully accepted a second serving with my to-go leftovers. Service was great... our server was incredibly attentive and very helpful. All in all, great food, great flavors, with just one suggestion to just maybe have the tacos reinforced for structural integrity. Tip: if you need to use the restroom, you will need to go around the building to the back and enter thru the 2nd door from the right. read more

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Near Corona Del Mar State Beach was this Mexican restaurant that had great food photos online. We both had the California grande burrito ($17.99) with chicken and steak. Note that I only found out that there was a card service fee charge when I looked at the receipt I got. There were many open tables at the time since we arrived for a late lunch. My friend accidentally ordered the California burrito instead of the California grande. Costing two dollars less, he offered to pay the price difference. However, the cashier was really kind enough to offer the California grande without the extra charge. The cashier was friendly and asked if we needed anything during our meal. The burrito itself tasted fine. The meats could've been more flavorful in my opinion. The price point is high but understandable considering it's in a wealthy Newport Beach neighborhood. The ambience was rather humid inside, and there was an annoying fly. The plates had a nice blue design, and there was interesting Lakers memorabilia inside. You can find parking on adjacent streets or in the little shopping plaza this restaurant is in. read more

La Fogata - California grande - Mexican Near Me - Corona Del Mar, California

Found this Mexican spot that brings flavor and aesthetic to you. I had: 1. Half rotisserie chicken 2. Fajitas - steak & mahi mahi & salmon read more

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My wife and I were up in Newport Beach for the weekend for a pre-Father's Day celebration and we're looking for some good Mexican food along Pacific Coast Highway. After checking out a bunch of the reviews, we came across this restaurant and had to give it a shot. The restaurant itself is relatively small and has about 12 tables inside and when we first arrived, there were about 18 teenagers in there being teenagers and a family party of 10 with small children. Both groups were relatively loud and obnoxious which made the restaurant feel a bit smaller as well and it was definitely a relief when both groups left halfway through our meal. Now let's talk about the food. Overall, it was pretty good. As other reviews have mentioned, the portions are generous, and the pricing is reasonable, but I wouldn't say this is the end all be all Mexican dining experience. That's a tough feat to accomplish in Southern California With so many options to choose from. I wasn't able to finish my burrito after splitting the nachos with my wife and she only finished half of her portion of the tiger shrimp bowl as well. I would give the taste and quality of the food a B minus and the ambience of the restaurant AC plus. We would potentially come back but only if it was because of close proximity, not necessarily to travel a great distance to come visit. All in all it was a decent meal. read more

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You can't use the Groupon or discount cards for Taco Tuesday. Here's the recent menu, prices much higher. read more

La Fogata - Mexican Near Me - Corona Del Mar, California

Beachy Mexican Newport Food Vibes Yes! This exist only at La Fogata off of PCH in the Newport / Corona Del Mar area . They serving up the beachy community lots of Mexican favorites along freshly made rotisserie chicken meal options. The menu is packed with so many items that even picky eaters will find something. Along with service is great and the dining area is colorful and festive. Great vibes for eating solo or simply catching up like I did with @ningwong_personal . I also found out that Kobe Bryant's family frequents this spot often as well. If ya cruising along PCH towards Newport, definitely check them out! @lafogataoc : my favorite has to be the grilled shrimp skewers. Love read more

La Fogata - Mexican Near Me - Corona Del Mar, California

Local Mexican restaurant located near the beach. Their grilled chicken is pretty good. We ordered the grilled Tiger shrimp, California burrito, shrimp and salmon tacos, grilled chicken salad. Inside decor is cool and Kobe tribute. Service is very friendly. Each plate is around $15 pretty affordable. read more

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We had lunch there last Saturday. There is a decent amount of parking available. The restaurant itself is simple and feels like home. There is plenty of seating both indoors and outdoors. We were overwhelmed by the menu. There are so many great options. We decided on a Kobe Ball bowl which is named after the legendary Kobe Bryant who visited the restaurant quite frequently. He actually worked with the chef's to create this bowl. It is a beautiful combination of shredded rotisserie chicken, carne asada, rice and fresh vegetables. We also got the Mahi Mahi fajitas. The fish was grilled perfectly and was combined with black beans, rice and lots of grilled vegetables and tortillas. No leftovers on this plate. The chili rellano was large and in charge. We got it with steak and it was too much to eat in the best way. We also got half a rotisserie chicken and honestly the best rotisserie chicken ever. It was so tender and flavorful that we couldn't stop eating it. In fact, we each got a whole rotisserie chicken to take home. Friendly service, a great environment and amazing food will make you come back again and again. read more

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Are you an LA Laker fan? Well, come check out this cool little place that Kobe Bryant and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar used to frequent. Located in the city of Newport/Corona Del Mar, in the same parking area as Mother's and CVS, is this little cozy healthy Mexican Restaurant. The restaurant is beautifully decorated, and there's a tribute to Kobe. Onto the food! Kobe Bowl - this was a dish that Kobe Bryant worked with the chefs to create. It has their rotisserie Chicken, steak, rice, beans, lettuce, and a little bit of pico. This dish is satisfying, filling, and bursting with flavor. We mixed it up so that it's easier to get a forkful of everything. Definitely amazing if you're wanting to sit down and eat or take it to go! The Mahi Mahi plate was amazing! The fish was seasoned beautifully and was flaky. Got it with Corn tortillas and black beans. It's definitely a worthwhile dish! The Chile Relleno with Steak - I'm used to the typical fried versions. This one hits different, but in a good way. Stuffed with vegetables cheese, and steak if you choose. There was some spice that hit so well when I bit into it. Then there was some zucchini and squash and fajita veggies it was seasoned beautifully and went so well. It was amazing! Rotisserie Chicken - This....this is where the money maker is. Sorry Costco, I love you, but this is now my favorite rotisserie chicken. As soon as that chicken hits your tongue, it's just a burst of flavor. I almost had a Shokigei no Soma moment (if you know, you know). You may think it's burnt, but nah, it's perfectly juicy inside, the flavors of the seasoning/marinade goes all the way down the chicken. I had to buy a whole one to go after devouring the half chicken. All of the salsas and guac you can tell it was made in house. They're a perfect complement to any dish here. So if you're visiting Newport, please check this place out. If anything at least for the rotisserie chicken! read more

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Wow, this is by far one of the best meals I've had in a long time. I really didn't expect authentic Mexican food in this area but I was wrong. The chile relleno, enchilada and margarita were 10/10. Give this place a try if you're in the area you won't be disappointed. The cashiers customer service is also very friendly read more

La Fogata - Mexican Near Me - Corona Del Mar, California

Food, service, and ambience were perfect! We love their selection of hot sauces, especially the Carolina reaper one! We will definitely come back soon! read more

We have been vacationing in CDM for the past 15+ years. We've walked by La Fogata numerous times. We decided to try it and were quite pleased. Our server/owner, Lida was attentive and very engaging. Our meals were authentic, fresh and seasoned perfectly. It's as good as Javier's, but not the price or vibes. The portion was generous. It's a very casual establishment with a nice ambience. And the place was very clean. Highly recommend it!!! read more

Great location and good food let it cook while shopping nearby Very chill vibe and upbeat relaxing music with a beat read more

This restaurant was so good!! Everything tasted amazing and the presentation is very picture worthy! I didn't feel heavy after the meal like I usually do after eating Mexican food and the flavors were great :)! I highly recommend their burritos, Kobe Bowl, and Quesadillas! They were all so YUMMY! The server was also super nice! Highly recommend this restaurant! read more

Excellent fish tacos, and California burrito. Service is fast and friendly. I'll be back. read more

La Fogata - Burrito bowl - Mexican Near Me - Corona Del Mar, California

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Used to be great, but now is average at best. Rice and beans are delicious. Proteins are a big miss. I got fish and it didn't taste fresh. Shrimp were also a big up charge for not very many. The restaurant itself has limited seating and the parking lot is small. Service is great, staff knows the menu and allergens well. read more

Fresh and Tasty! We went to this location a few times when we were cruising 101PCH. It's so cosy and has a nice new interior. The staff are friendly and very helpful in answering many questions we have. :) My favorite is the Chicken Fajita. Overall, a good to-go location. read more

La Fogata - Mexican Near Me - Corona Del Mar, California

I felt so honored to visit La Fogata in Corona del Mar, a healthy Mexican restaurant that has an interior design including a memorabilia and tribute to the great legend Kobe Bryant This restaurant was frequented by the Mamba so often that they named the rice bowl that he used to order after Kobe himself. The rice bowl consists of chicken and beef that has great flavor but is also healthy. I highly recommend ordering their Del Mar burrito which is huge and can feed two people. If you're looking for an even healthier alternative than the Kobe rice bowl check out the Santa Fe chicken salad. They also have an assortment of beer and alcoholic beverages for you to enjoy with your meal as well. This is definitely a must visit in Orange County especially if you just want to have a taste and experience in honor of the legend himself. RIP. read more

La Fogata - Kobe bowl! - Mexican Near Me - Corona Del Mar, California

I decided to try this place because it's 5 mins away, very convenient. I wanted it to work because I like how it's healthy but I won't be returning. I tried the chicken and the fish, both were extremely bland and overpriced. The piece of fish I got for a taco was a joke and it was very overcooked. Both experiences I wish I had just driven to my regular chicken and fish spots. The best rotisserie chicken in this area hands down is chicken shop and they're a 100% seed oil free establishment. The best fish tacos are at taco stand, the fish is mahi mahi and always cooked to perfection. For one fish taco at La fogata you can get two at taco stand and the pieces are actually filling. You're welcome xoxo. read more

We will drive 30 miles and an hour in traffic for a meal at La Fogata. That's how consistently great the food is. Rachel and Aron always serve us with a big smile. Thank you. Daryl read more

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This is such a find! We ordered every variety of fish they have in their tacos. Grilled and fresh. The guacamole (ours was a small order) was excellent. The other food we saw looked as yummy! read more

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Not much flavor from rice and beans. Overall good. But nothing blew my socks off. Definitely a healthier Mexican food option in the area. The taquito plate was not deep fried. And my chill relleno was different... Prices were about $12-15 a plate read more

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The food is the best Mexican healthy alternative in CDM Newport Beach the Kobe bowl and the carnitas is a must to try. The owner Lida is amazing and makes the environment that much better you have to try this place! read more

My favorite Mexican restaurant in Orange County. Quality and healthy steak and chicken, it tastes real, and you can get it without any spicy marinade unlike some Mexican restaurants. I order steak/chicken a la carte, that's how you know it's good, with generous portions. Lita and the entire staff are very friendly and do a great job. I highly recommend La Fogata! read more

This new owners really destroyed this place. Used to be my favorite restaurant in the world but now the shrimp is rotten. the chicken is dry. the steak is tough. The good fish is gone read more

Food was great and hospitality was phenomenal for a fast casual restaurant. The Kobe Bowl was created on behalf of Kobe Bryant; a must-try.

Dope spot! Mandatory stop every time im in the area. The food is always on point and they take care of me. #mambamentality

This place is so good, I love coming here after a Long Beach day just make sure to get here in time. The food is so authentic and flavorful I could eat here every single day. Also the staff is super inviting and friendly definitely a family friendly environment. I highly highly recommend. read more

The two carnitas were delicious and the customer service was excellent! This was my first time here ... and I will be back!

Leilani is the best! And La fogata is too! Great food- wowza portions, amazing prices! Keep up the great work! We come all the way from the east for this great food and service. Also rip Kobe- they offer a special tribute to him since he was a frequent customer read more

We were in Newport craving good Mexican for lunch and decided to try La Fogata. My friend and both ordered California burritos (he got the regular, i got the grande). The flavor was spectacularly unremarkable, probably the blandest tasting burrito I have had. Whatever, wasn't a big deal. Come to find some time pass and we both feel queasy. Now both of us are fighting a nasty case of food poisoning, which we now both assess was most definitely from undercooked rotisserie chicken in our burrito, since we ate nothing else that day. Looking closer at reviews now, I see we're not alone and other people have gotten sick. I think the owner's response to people discussing food poisoning shows complete denial about how low quality their food is. read more

This is a small mom and pop restaurant. It's Mexican and rotisserie chicken. Ambience is rather simple, tables and a tv, and autographed pics of Kobe who was a regular. Service..We were a party of nine, unannounced. The owner greeted us warmly and efficiently. She was also the order taker and server. She's super. Food...We ranged in age from 13 to 81. There is something for everyone . Full menu with salads, plates, kabobs, rice and beans, salsa, and beer and wine. All absolutely delicious, fresh, perfectly prepared. Value...A true bargain, prices are really reasonable, particularly given the serving sizes. We will be back often. They also read more

Small and friendly and the food was outstanding! I had the burrito bowl with shredded rotisserie chicken and it was heavenly.

$15 for a bean and cheese burrito or a salad without protein!! The prices are not even close to being reasonable for what you get it's extremely average read more

Great food! We are never disappointed! Always so fresh!! I think the best Mexican food around. The shrimp tacos are to die for! A must try.. read more

Amazing food! The best part of Mexican food without the heavy feeling. Service was very friendly and attentive. They have a good happy hour as well. Indoor decorated very cute and outdoor seating is available. A must try! Will definitely be back. read more

La Fogata - Two item combo plate - delicious! - Mexican Near Me - Corona Del Mar, California