Rudy&#x27;s

Very impressed. Best taco's I've ever had. Service was exceptional. Would highly recommend.read more

Location was great, service was solid, decor felt legit. It was a cool place to come and eat but…read morecould see myself just enjoying a few drinks too. I have challenges paying for Latino food at these prices, however if they actually have food worth those prices I will do it. This Resturant satisfied these challenges, food was amazing like really good. I ate the veg meal and wow!

Seating area

Picana Oaxaquena

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Sopecitos

Los Agaves

4.5(4.6k reviews)

1.2 mi

excellent food great atmosphere…read more quick service salsa bar top notch We drove two hours for lunch !!

The food, service and ambiance are superb. Ironically we were going to another taco place but it…read morewas closed today. My husband and I were delighted to experience such a clean, fresh restaurant. The prices are right as well. Highly recommend!

Fresh new update to the restaurant

Cocktail Apps!

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Margarita Flight

Corazon Cocina

4.5(1.2k reviews)

1.0 mi

I am at Corazon Cocina all the time in Ventura , so was I was happy to go to the OG location!…read more My favorite taco is the Norteño. I literally only need one and I am full. Quick service. It was busy but orders come out quick. Always love the SB Public Market. Corazon is literally one of my favorite spots.. in Ventura, Carp or SB!

Corazon Cocina is a Mexican seafood restaurant located in the Santa Barbara Public Market in…read moredowntown Santa Barbara. It was featured on the Michelin Bib Gourmand list but started off as a pop-up. You get in line and order your food. Then you get a buzzer that rings when your food is ready. They have some dedicated seating for customers but you can sit anywhere in the public market. We got the al pastor ($6.95) and coliflor ($7.95) tacos. The sizes were bigger than normal but I thought they could've used a little salt and the al pastor was a little tough. The sal de mar ceviche ($23.95) could've used more salt and lime but it was still refreshing with the watermelon. For drinks both the passionfruit margarita ($21) and hibiscus margarita ($24) were good. You can ask for their three salsas of varying spice levels. The food and drinks were on the pricier side too but we didn't think the quality matched the price.

Corazon Cocina

Sal de Mar Ceviche

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Sal del mar.. Good but could use a bit more acidity. Comes with tortilla chips.

Corazon Comedor

4.4(324 reviews)

1.1 mi

Corazon Comedor is a vibrant cantina style Mexican eatery serving up food made with love and…read moreculture. This spot is located on State Street where there is street parking all around the area. Inside, they have a beautifully decorated interior with lots of seating. Wifey and I ended up getting the Carpintero Burrito, Enfrijoladas, and the Black Beans & Plantains. Everything hit the spot and it was a great meal to start us off for the day. All of the staff here are super friendly and welcoming. Definitely stop by if you are ever in the area!

Great service, comfortable atmosphere, excellent fresh chips and collection of homemade salsas…read morecomplimentary. The Quesebirria is really good. It don't sleep on the smoked mushroom and cactus taco!

Salsa!

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Cafe latte and Cafe Americano

La Super-Rica Taqueria

4.0(2.2k reviews)

1.3 mi

We order: #1- Taco de Bistec…read more #6- Taco de Rajas #12- Pechuga Suiza #18- Guacamole #19- Frijol Súper-Rica #20- Gordita de Frijol (VERY Spicy) # Arroz A La Mexicana Two drinks - Jamaica & horchata The food and the drinks and service was excellent. My advice get there couple minutes before they open. It can be a long wait if you don't. Not much available parking. Park on the side streets. Bring CASH only.

Finally made it to La Super-Rica Taqueria, and it absolutely lived up to the hype! This Santa…read moreBarbara staple, made famous in part by Julia Child, had a line wrapped around the building--and after trying it, I completely understand why. We ordered the #3 tacos and the #16 Especial Plate. The #16 was the standout: steak, melted cheese, and those hatch/pasilla chiles were an incredible combination. What I loved most was how much it felt like a true local institution. The line was full of people who clearly knew and loved the place. If you're passing through Santa Barbara and see a long line, don't turn around--get in it. It's worth the wait! Definitely recommend!

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Menu and counter to order December 2025

Flor De Maiz

4.1(1.1k reviews)

0.5 mi

•$$$

Best Mexican food in Santa Barbara and possibly the US. Mole out of this world. Cocktails are…read moreamazing. Who thinks to mix mint and mango?

We had no idea where to eat in Santa Barbara, but Flor de Maíz absolutely nailed it…read more The food was fantastic, but the real MVP was Giovanna, the hostess. I asked if she had a romantic table, and she fired back with a joke that had us laughing before we even sat down. Talk about a first impression! Her personality, energy, and genuine hospitality made us feel like regulars from the moment we walked in. The steak was outstanding, the atmosphere was perfect, and the service matched the food. First impressions matter, and Giovanna absolutely crushed it. We'll definitely be back. Thanks for making our night so memorable!

Romantic lit candles along steps

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Flan - delicious! And I'm not a flan girly

Los Arroyos Mexican Restaurant & Take Out

4.0(572 reviews)

0.9 mi

First time at this awesome restaurant! Everything was so delicious and fresh here ! Right when we…read morewalked in , we felt the friendly , warm cheerful atmosphere ! We loved having the Ceviche Tostada and Arroyos Enchiladas, didn't even have leftovers because we finished it all , it was so good (and the portions were a good size!) thank you everyone at Los Arroyos!

This is a clean and nice Mexican restaurant off of state ave in Santa Barbara…read more The manager Anthony was so kind and friendly The food was sooooooo good and spicy sauces bar was great Next time I am in Santa Barbara I am definitely going to go back and enjoy this very nice and clean restaurant

Salsa bar

Shrimp and chili tacos (so delicious)!

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Guacamole & Chips

Los Agaves

4.2(1.1k reviews)

2.5 mi

Los Agaves is hands down some of the best authentic Mexican food on the Central Coast! Every visit…read morereminds us why we love this place so much. We had the fish tacos, short rib tacos, and of course, margaritas ....everything was absolutely delicious! Fresh, flavorful, beautifully prepared, and consistently amazing. But what really makes Los Agaves special is the people. The service is always wonderful and professional, with genuine hospitality and unending smiles. You truly feel welcomed from the moment you walk in. We can't say enough about the incredible food, fantastic margaritas, and amazing team. If you're in Santa Barbara and looking for authentic Mexican food, Los Agaves is a must! We'll definitely be back!

Good, clean, and nice looking space with wonderful staff. (A tad overpriced)…read more Appetizer: ceviche tostada Main: mole plate And a fountain drink $68.

Lg Blood Orange

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Chimichanga

Loquita

4.4(1.8k reviews)

0.3 mi

•$$$

My husband and I were visiting Santa Barbara for the first time and celebrating a special occasion,…read moreso I made a reservation here for a special dinner- and I'm so glad I did! We had such a wonderful experience from the moment we walked in to the moment we left. Our waiter was attentive and checked in on us regularly while still giving us plenty of space to enjoy our food and conversation. We sat outside, which I highly recommend if the weather is nice. Even though the restaurant was busy, the atmosphere felt intimate and romantic. We ordered two tapas, two cocktails, and the paella, and we were completely stuffed! We ended up taking quite a bit of the paella home, and thankfully, it was just as delicious reheated the next day. We actually wanted to come back again the following night, but decided to save it for another special celebration when we visit Santa Barbara again. One of the sweetest touches was that they gave us a postcard with a handwritten message- it was such a thoughtful little detail that made the experience feel even more special. Definitely recommend for a date night, but I could also see this being such a fun spot to experience with a group of friends. We'll absolutely be back next time we're in Santa Barbara!

Popular, over hyped just ok restaurant. Service was soooo slow and the paella just ok. Tomato…read morespread appetizer and artichoke appetizer were solid. I love a good sangria - this was not. My dining partner didn't finish hers. I ordered a second and had two sips. Expensive night out with mediocre food in a lovely space.

Cake table set up by staffers.

Gambas Al Ajillo

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Piquillos Ahumados

Maíz Picante

4.7(327 reviews)

2.4 mi

I just wanted to take the time and leave a review for this amazing company! They catered for my…read morewedding reception in Santa Barbara by the beach. Their service was absolutely amazing, as well as their communication and timeliness. The food was delicious so much so that all of my friends and family praised how tasteful it was. The drinks are yummy too! I couldn't be more happy with how everything went. I was already a customer previously before my wedding, and I really enjoy their tacos and burritos! If you're wondering if you should use them as a vendor for your upcoming event, definitely do it!

We stopped by about 20 minutes before closing because of all the great reviews, but unfortunately…read morethe customer service was really disappointing. As soon as we walked in, the woman working the register seemed visibly annoyed that we had come in before closing and rolled her eyes at us. She immediately said, "Umm, we're closing, so you want to take it to go?" We were already planning on taking our food to go, so the attitude felt completely unnecessary. While we were waiting for our order, another customer walked up to ask her a question, and she continued staring down at her phone and completely ignored her. The woman actually had to say, "Excuse me?" just to get her attention. I completely understand wanting to wrap things up at the end of a shift, but if a business is still open, customers shouldn't be made to feel unwelcome for coming in during posted business hours. We specifically chose this place because of the great reviews, so this was a really disappointing first impression.

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Inside seating and ordering counter

Great service and delicious tacos. I highly recommend the steak with potatoes taco.

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Volcanes de bistec

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22 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Javier D.

6 years ago

This is literally the fourth time I try giving Rudy's a chance and they still manage to miss up my order. I specifically asked for extra bacon and extra potatoes and they did not do so. All I ended up getting was a big ass piece of tortilla with some egg in it and one piece of bacon. Please try spending your money somewhere else before eating here and the girl who's always behind the counter really needs to get fired ASAP read more

Stephen G.

9 years ago

So I've been coming here for 20 years, since I am a Mesa/Harbor Rat. This is my spot. Tonight I am extremely disappointed with the Managment. If you close at 9 don't start closing at 8:30, put up all the chairs, say your out of chips and not make more and basically shut down at 830. It's very inhospitable to break down the salsa bar, chairs on table etc when your still open. Your better then this. read more

Tara B.

7 years ago

Really great place to get a bite to eat. The food here is great, my favorite is the cheese enchilada, the best meal on the menu by far. The sauce is absolutely to die for, and it is perfectly cooked every single time. When I go I always have to get two. This is one of Santa Barbara's staple Mexican food restaurants. read more

taylor m.

17 years ago

You should never order more than one taco unless you plan on sleeping all day! I always make that mistake, however cause they are SO good. But big and made for gringos - lots of cheese, lettuce, tomato, etc. Cold beer and nice service too. read more

Martha H.

14 years ago

Big fan of Rudy's. Their "Rudy Burger" is big and tasty! I also love their many choices of fresh salsa and homemade chips. My second fav is the chimichanga burrito, but you better be really hungry or share it with someone else! read more

Chrissy R.

13 years ago

This is a great find, while it can get busy the value for the food is excellent. This is a great place to take a to go order home and relax while enjoying a great meal when you are too tired to cook. read more

Sue B.

193

6 years ago

Love there dipping sauces, we always get a container to take home and cant get enough of it. The employees are super friendly and they are def client and covid friendly. read more

Yukon C.

3 years ago

Shredded chicken burrito was amazing. The red salsa and salsa verde were great features to the burrito, I highly recommend them. Definitely will be back here soon! read more

Martians G.

7 years ago

Delicious food.. so sad they have poor service. They young girl at the front has no manners. Delicious salsa bar.

Mike D.

19 years ago

Great great great burritos. The rest of the stuff is ok. The place would get five stars but it's kind of dirty.

John R.

141

10 years ago

I can really recommend the combo burritos and Tres Amigos from the secret menu. Worth every penny!

Heidi S.

118

7 years ago

Huge portions, solid food selections that were all tasty. Chips cooked fresh and food was fast.

Stephanienjack C.

10 months ago

There was a patron there that had terrible body odor... not Rudy's fault, but we had to leave

Simone T.

Elite 21

102

7 years ago

Love this place! I have been going here for almost 6 years and it has never disappointed.

Day V.

9 years ago

DO NOT GO TO THE ONE IN CARPINTERIA. This is the only one worthy of your money and time.

John R.

10 years ago

I think I'm in love with their Beef Combo Burrito.

Taylor R.

204

14 years ago

Best chicken enchilada on west beach!

Aidan O.

15 years ago

best soft chicken tacos in town!

Mike S.

4 years ago

great service, quality food !!!

Carol M.

14 years ago

Love the tacos! Great food.

Rudy's - mexican - Updated September 2026

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The best burrito I have had in a loooooooong time. Had the garden burrito and it was loaded with…read morebeans, rice, veggies -- balanced with flavors, no chunky ingredients, well-seasoned. Also shared a plate of the nachos locos which was also excellent. Very good balance of beans, cheese, onion, and guac. Overall we were all super full and all very satisfied. Service was fast, staff were kind, and prices totally reasonable for the portions served. 10/10 recommend and 10/10 would do again.

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Come hungry. The portions are big and filling. The jalapeño poppers wrapped with bacon are…read moredelicious and perfect for sharing. Their birria taco is basic melt in your mouth goodness. Salsas are on point! Grab a beer as they are located in the m special with plenty of seating. The service pretty quick.

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The food tasted great, although the presentation wasn't especially appealing. I understand that…read morethis may simply be the traditional way tacos are served. Unfortunately, the service was disappointing. Our server offered chips and guacamole, but we weren't informed there would be a $20 charge before they were brought to the table. We were also told over the phone that our party of six could split the check, but when it came time to pay, that wasn't possible. On the positive side, the outdoor seating was lovely, and the restaurant has its own parking lot, which made it convenient for my guests. Overall, while I appreciated the food and the convenient location, the service issues made the experience less enjoyable for my guests and me. Because of that, I don't plan to return.

Lilly's Tacos

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Hubby was craving tacos so stopped at Lilly's, on our way home from Solvang, based on some trusty…read moreyelp reviews. Located in a plaza so parking was easy and restaurant easy to find. Menu was really easy, no crazy amount of options - just tacos and you pick the meat. I ordered carne asada tacos and hubby got pork tacos. Tacos had a ton of meat, not fatty and there were many salsa options which were really good. You have to pay extra for grilled onions and jalapeño but it was worth it because it was such a great compliment to the tacos. You get your food pretty fast, can take it to go or sit and eat at one of the clean tables in the restaurant. Would definitely eat here again!

They serve one item - small street tacos…read more The taco's come with a basic small corn tortilla, and it's on you to top it at their bar which basically only includes cilantro, onions, radish, and 3 choices of hot sauce. If that's what you want, you're in luck, but they were a bit expensive for what you received, and I'd rather have a fat flour tortilla burrito or authentic crunchy taco with cheese. The inside of the restaurant feels cold. Just a bunch of tables that you find and seat yourself to while you're waiting for your food to be made.

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We were looking for a place to eat before going to the bowl. Victor, the owner was so friendly and…read morewelcoming that we had to try it. The place has a cool, arty vibe. The food was delicious. We had ceviche and asado tacos...real authentic. We'll definitely be back!

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I've gone 3 time 3 Pastor tacos, rice and beans and the…read morefood was cold. The rice and beans were very bland no flavor I tried to tri-tip burrito and was disappointed same with a small 17 dollar tri-tip sandwich. I gave this place a few tries, but it wasn't it.

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Ho. lee. Sheeeee…read more... The tacos came out naked, on paper plates, which was actually the taqueria experience I'd been looking for (it's Milpas, so, options...). Still, there's clearly a post-millennial, new generation vibe to the place, digital screen menus, slightly limited menu (no conventional chicken filling), 20-something brothers running the place, so I'd changed my expectations. For a second I was disappointed, before I remembered my original expectations. Then I got a good look at the house-made tortillas (pics posted). When I got to the salsa bar, I did another double take. Is that...? PEANUT salsa, bro. Spicy. Done, I'm done. I've got nothing else.

Visited twice in one day -- that should tell you everything…read more I make a point of hitting up a different taco spot whenever I'm in Santa Barbara, and this trip I did both locations back to back: the diner on Milpas, then the food truck near the SB Bowl a few hours later. Standout was the rajas con queso -- genuinely one of the best versions I've had, and somehow even better from the truck than the diner. Also tried pastor, cabeza, carnitas, and shrimp, and every single one delivered. No weak link on the menu. What I appreciate about Pipeye is that it's not a tourist-line spot -- it's the kind of place locals actually recommend when you ask. I posed that exact question to a Mexican family, and after a beat of consideration, their answer was Tacos Pipeye. That tracked with everything I'd already experienced. If you're comparing SB taco spots -- La Super-Rica gets the tourist attention, but ask around and you'll hear El Bajío and Lilly's come up just as often among people who eat here regularly. Pipeye belongs in that conversation too, and for me, it's currently at the top. Diner and food truck both worth seeking out. Will be back next visit.

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