Tacos El Catrin

Bandito Taqueria -- A Taste of Tijuana in the Heart of Santa Ana…read more If you're looking for Tijuana-style Mexican food with serious flavor, Bandito Taqueria is a spot worth checking out. From the moment you walk in, you get that authentic TJ-style taqueria feel, with the aromas of mesquite, fresh tortillas, and classic Mexican ingredients filling the room. The mesquite flavor really stands out--it gives the meats that smoky, grilled taste that makes every bite memorable. And the handmade tortillas are a game changer: warm, fresh, and the perfect foundation for the tacos and other dishes. The guacamole is fresh, creamy, and full of flavor, while the crispy seasoned chips bring a satisfying crunch and just the right amount of seasoning. Pair those with the salsa and you've got the perfect start to the meal. What also makes the experience special is the hospitality. The atmosphere feels welcoming and relaxed, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with family or friends. Located in the heart of Santa Ana, Bandito Taqueria brings a taste of Tijuana to Orange County with smoky mesquite flavors, handmade tortillas, fresh guacamole, and seriously satisfying Mexican food. 5/5 TJ-style flavor Mesquite-grilled goodness Handmade tortillas Fresh guacamole Crispy seasoned chips Great hospitality Bandito Taqueria delivers the kind of food that makes you want to come back hungry. Definitely a spot to put on your Santa Ana food list! #BanditoTaqueria #SantaAnaEats #SantaAnaFood #TijuanaStyle #TJStyle #MexicanFood #Tacos #Taqueria #TacoLovers #Mesquite #HandmadeTortillas #Guacamole #Foodie #FoodReview #EatswithEddie #OCFoodie #OrangeCountyEats #MoreReviews

Yoooooooooooooooo, great food at this spot. Tried the al pastor - so good in the burrito. And the…read moremushroom chorizo was delicious as well. Big fan of the sauce Lots of seating indoors (long tables). Quick service to get the food. Overall, it's great for large groups, especially after a night of drinking

Nice spacious dining room.

Chicken Flour Quesadilla

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Al pastor with everything and pineapple passion fruit fresh juice (no refill).

Tacos Manuel

4.5(666 reviews)

2.4 mi

Great tacos and quick service! The pollo and asada were both juicy and well-seasoned, with fresh…read moretoppings and salsa that had real kick. The owner was very friendly so will be back for sure.

I came here on a Friday to pick up two burritos. I ordered a Carne Asada and a chicken burrito and…read morethe total came to under $20. The burritos are packed next to grilled vegetables which made the tortilla soggy (recommendation: separate the grilled vegetables from the burrito). The burritos was packed with ingredients but very bland. My husband said his chicken burrito was fine and would give it 3 out of 5 stars, too. They also offer 3 different sauces, too. Glad we tried it.

Taco truck (Sep 2025)

Carne Asada & Al Pastor Tacos with grilled onions & jalapeño

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Cabeza quesadilla. Extra charge for cabeza

Papi Tacos & Churros

4.5(678 reviews)

2.8 mi

Great churros and nutella but have had a few better in the area. Birria mulita was very good…read morealthough a bit greasy. Didnt love the chicken tacos or chicken mulita due to chicken seasoning having odd charred taste. Main ding was on customer service being terrible. Cashier seemed unwelcoming and annoyed when asking questions about menu.

I came by to get gas and next-door to the Chevron was this taco spot and I ordered the mulita which…read moreconsisted of two handmade fresh tortillas, cheese, cilantro, onion, and your choice of hot or mild sauce The service and cleanliness is exceptional. I recommend a better view of a gas station, but the energy ambience has felt here.

Inside

Chicken quesadilla (small size) & Consomé

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Birria Tacos/Quesatacos.

Tacos Los Cholos - Anaheim

Locally owned & operated

Great food, great music, great people and service Would…read morerecommend this spot to anyone looking for solid tacos

Went there yesterday, food was a 10/10 best tacos ive had in Anaheim I definitely see why its the…read morebest Taco spot in Anaheim, Out server keiry was amazing too she went and made sure we had everything we needed and would constantly check on us ! super pretty too!

Michelada

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Navarro's Taqueria

4.3(581 reviews)

2.2 mi

Fantastic service they cater for the company that I work for the tacos are sensational. The staff…read moreis great. Look forward to every safety meeting that they will be there for our lunch.

Navarros never disappoints...whether you eat it in restaurant...take it to go or get it delivered…read moreby uber eats/postmates! Service is always great and get your order right! Birria - always a good choice but be careful if you order more than 2, serious food coma. Consume is packed with flavor and yes i admit i drink it! Taquitos - my kids love the shredded beef one's! Carne asada with anything is bomb here...one of the best carne spots around! Beans - i mention their beans because they are top 3 hands down...awesome flavor and perfect texture! This is the actual cause of my food comas! Navarros is bomb, trust my Elite status and give this place a shot...if you don't like it you're probably should stick with the other well known brands.

Menu

Birria Combo A

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Super fries with asada

Tacos Gutierrez

4.5(112 reviews)

2.1 mi

Family-owned & operated

LGBTQ friendly

Pastor tacos are deliciousoooo! Great service and clean restaurant! Highly recommendedread more

Came by for taco Tuesday, hadn't been in well over 6 months. I can't be absolute in saying the…read morequality of ALL meat has declined, but for the carne asada, it appeared to be the case when I went. Meat was extremely greasy, to the point I got nauseous. And the actual pieces were extremely chewy - hardly edible. I ended up throwing my tacos away. I hope this was just a one off incident.

Come make your own combination.

Taco Tuesday come get your tacos.

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Tacompadre

4.7(296 reviews)

1.0 mi

Really enjoyed my experience here! The fries topped with flavorful al pastor pork, melted cheese,…read moreand fresh guacamole were delicious. The service was friendly and attentive, and everything came out quickly. I loved the variety of salsas and especially the grilled onions. The jamaica was fabulous, and the horchata was also really good just a touch sweet for my personal taste. The staff was very helpful with recommendations for first-time visitors, and I love that they offer more than tacos, including pizza, wings, desserts, and halal options. The arroz con leche was one of my favorites. I could have it every day! The restaurant is also kid-friendly and wheelchair accessible. Overall, a welcoming atmosphere, great food, and excellent service. I'll definitely be back!

Very lovely cashier, very good service and the food is a 10. Highly recommend my children loved it.read more

Halloween decor

ALAMBRE DE SUADERO

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Rice Pudding

The Taco Connection

4.8(196 reviews)

2.1 mi

Found this gem randomly while in the area…read more Glad I did as the tacos and chorreadas was fire!! Unlike common taqueria shops tacos. Give them a shot you won't be disappointed. Also the owner was super dope, great service. I'll be back!

Met Miguel today (Miguel is awesome) and let him know it was our first time.... He recommended a…read morefew different items but what really stood out was his welcoming energy and positivity. We got 4 chuleta tacos, they were absolutely perfect. Let's talk about the taco.... Tortilla was perfect, soft yet crunchy and had flavor. Meat, seasoned and marinated well, cooked perfectly with a good char slight crunch and still soft, never tasted a hint of burnt. Toppings were chopped well, with the right cuts where it made sense when you ate it. Spice level was perfect mellow. THEIR AVOCADO SAUCE WAS TOP TIER. I'll be back for more tacos as a regular. This is not a paid review. If you read this far just go try it, it's just dang good in every aspect. Last thing, they won best taco this year 2026.

Aguas frescas (Natural Waters- Homemade)

Asada, Pollo, and Chuletas Quesadilla

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Asada, Pollo, and Chuletas Tacos

Taqueria El Gordito

3.9(380 reviews)

1.9 mi

I've driven by this little spot quite a few times but never had the chance to stop. I finally did…read moretoday, and I'm glad I checked it out! I ordered everything to go and went with their Tijuana-style tacos--dos tacos de lengua con todo and dos tacos de carne asada con todo--along with green and red salsa and some limes. If you know lengua, you know it needs to be cleaned and cooked a very specific way, and they definitely got that part right. The lengua was cooked well and had a good texture. For my personal taste, though, it was just missing a little salt. Other than that, the food was good. It's a cute, small spot with some outdoor seating. They also have aguas frescas like horchata, pan dulce, and coffee, so there's a little bit of everything. Overall, a nice little neighborhood taqueria to pull up to when you're craving some Tijuana-style tacos.

Taqueria El Gordito is one of my go-to late-night taco spots, especially after work--and it never…read moremisses. They're open until 3am, which already puts them in a clutch category. This is the kind of place you rely on when you need something solid, fast, and satisfying. My usual order is the asada or cabeza tacos--and they don't hold back. The tacos are big, flavorful, and consistently good every time. Every now and then I switch it up with the chile relleno burrito, which is also worth it. Everything I've had here hits. The salsa selection is solid too. They don't have it laid out anymore, but you can just ask at the counter--and they'll take care of you. They've always been cool about giving extra when needed. They've also got a good variety of drinks to go with it. I usually take my food to-go, but the outdoor patio is there if you want to sit and eat. Service is friendly, quick, and consistent--another reason I keep coming back. If you're looking for a reliable late-night taco spot that delivers on flavor and portion, this is it.

Breakfast grub.

Breakfast burrito

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Burrito combo, massive!

Taqueria Tapatia

3.9(594 reviews)

0.3 mi

Been coming for a few times a year forever…read more Cash only. Thats the only con really. So just remember to bring cash. Though there is an atm machine in case. Bathrooms are available, clean. Usually they have a security . Food is consistent good. Always busy. Though it's not super long to wait .

I really enjoy the pastor, asada, and carnitas tacos. I recently tried the cabeza tacos and it was…read moretasty. The lengua is good and the buche is ok. Tacos come out steaming hot and meat is tender and flavorful! Horchata is always good. The tortas and burritos are great but I think they need to work on wrapping it better. The torta often falls apart and burritos aren't wrapped well enough. Enchiladas are good and the nachos are good. Fish tacos were not good because the sauce was just sour cream and the fish was crispy but not seasoned so the whole taco tasted bland. However, everything else tasted great and is decently priced! There's a self serve salsa bar with green and red sauce, onions and cilantro, and pickled carrots. Service is good they're friendly and food comes out quick. There is plenty of parking and seating inside and outside. The tacos are the stars here.

Interior

Alpastor burrito

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Menu june 25

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5 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Edgar S.

1

6

9

7 years ago

One of the few real authentic taco spot in Santa Ana, from the presentation to the flavor of the meat. Presentation The taco is serve with a small paper under the tortilla just like they do it in Mexico. They charge .25c to add avocado that's practically an it looks amazing. The agua de horchata has strawberries in it. They serve the al pasta with pineapple Flavor I can only speak for what I had, and al pastor and lengua were amazing. The al pastor is nice and red in the outside and white and soft in the inside. Lengua is completely clean no tastebuds skin in it super soft The horchata is milky and rich. I will definitely come back. Take my money TACOS EL CATRIN read more

jude a.

122

106

35

1 year ago

I recently visited TACOS EL CATrin and had a mixed experience. I ordered the asada tacos, but unfortunately, the meat was quite dry and lacked flavor. On the bright side, the tripa tacos were delicious--crispy and well-seasoned. I also tried the mulitas with asada, but again, the meat was dry and disappointing. Despite this, I'm willing to give them another chance and try other meats on the menu. Hopefully, I'll find something that stands out. read more

Itzel S.

0

1

0

6 years ago

I came to try them out on saturday. My friend recomended it. I was not disappointed the agua fresca was amazing and the shrimp and asada was delicious. The shrimp was well seasoned and asada you can tell they did it on mesquit read more

Luna B.

0

7

1

6 years ago

Esta bueno pero siempre me Dan cebolla quemada o pan quemado en la torta. El muchacho Con pelo como Memo Ochoa siempre anda de malas y el cosinero muy lento trabaja mas rapido mi abuela read more

Cristina M.

2

17

6 years ago

Their shrimp tacos are amazing!!! Super friendly!! I have come more than once and will continue to come back!!

Tacos El Catrin - tacos - Updated September 2026

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El Taquero

3.8

(66 reviews)

Spent $22 on 6 tacos w/ handmade tortillas. Although the price was a bit discouraging, the tacos…read morewere sizable (1.5x the usual size) and really tasty. The tripa was especially good and it was extra fried. Al pastor was flavorful. I would come back if it was a bit cheaper.

Everything we have ordered is delicious! Good quality of meat. It's very flavorful and the portions…read moreare good. I personally love the handmade tortillas. Their red and green salsas are very good and spicy The wait time can be a little long, I recommend calling in the order before heading over...otherwise it's a solid 20 minute plus wait but def worth it!

Tacos Y Birria Miguelito

4.1

(16 reviews)

2nd time here This place has a lot of flavor…read more I'm a taco man. I love tacos, classic and easy. These tacos are fire. Their salsas are fire I love the one with the kick (has oil in it) it is so good but careful now, a lil spicy. The tacos enchilados are fire !! 2nd time here and counting the men are good cooks and excellent customer service, this is my hidden gem , clean friendly and flavorful. I will definitely be coming back .

We found this taco truck right on the corner in front of the Superior. I usually get the birria…read moretacos, and they're so good!!! The tripas are really good too. They're usually pretty fast, and the staff is always friendly. Definitely a spot worth checking out!

Lonchera Los Güeros Tacos Al Vapor

4.7

(31 reviews)

I've lived in Orange County for 26 years and have tried countless taco shops, but this is hands…read moredown my favorite. The meat is always tender, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. The tortillas are fresh and delicious, and every meal comes out piping hot. The value is incredible--you get generous portions of high-quality food at great prices. Their salsa bar is excellent, and while they're all delicious, the chili oil is my absolute favorite. The service is always fast, friendly, and welcoming, which makes every visit even better. We eat here several times a week, and the quality has been consistently excellent every single visit. Highly recommend!

My favorite tacos ever!!!! The owners are so sweet. I remember my first time going it was only…read morecash and they said I can pay them later and they gave me the tacos. I went back to pay them and got more tacos. My favorite taco truck.

Cali fusion Addictive tacos

4.9

(26 reviews)

Yelp, you steered me wrong on this food truck. By your ratings, it's the most bestest thing in the…read moreentire known universe; but in fact, it was merely good quality, representative fusion street tacos. The birria tacos came with pickled onions and radishes, and they were mostly clean, if a little greasy. And the quesabirria taco was mostly just greasy. The price was definitely right. $25 for 2. And the service was polite but happier to speak Spanish; keep that in mind, gringos, if you can't speak the language. Four stars, graded graciously, for the interior cleanliness of the truck and the price. Don't refuse to eat here, but don't go out of your way to do so.

The food here is really good. They make all their tortillas fresh for both the tacos and…read morequesadillas. All the meats are super soft and tender. For being freshly made the service was super quick. We got our food within 10 minutes of ordering. Definitely check this spot out if you're around the area.

Las Tortugas Grill

4.1

(90 reviews)

My order: 4 asada tacos, 2 chicken tacos, 1 asada multia. Total cost was $33.65…read more The good: Salsas were flavorful. Not a long wait like Angels next door, which is why I decided to try this taco truck. Street size tacos are $2.75. I recommend the light green salsa. The red salsa was spicy. The bad: i was overcharged for my food. I paid an extra tax tonight to support local family business and because of this i would not recommend eating here. 6 x $2.75 = $16.50. How would a mulita and taxes add up the total to $33.65.

Their quesadillas are amazing! I had there Gordita for the first time and it was okay. It just need…read morea little salt, but nothing major. Their horchata is bomb but the agua de piña was watered down. Overall their food is good!! I'm a returning customer.

Ryko Mak Tako

4.0

(45 reviews)

My go to spot every time I'm in the area been going here for years the Al pastor tacos are always…read moreon point it's a little pricey but not bad for the quality

The food is good ,But be aware the lady that charges in the afternoon up charges 1-3 dollars…read morealway. She gives herself the tip on your behave lol.

Alebrijes Grill

3.4

(46 reviews)

This review is just for the food only. It was brought to me by a family member who often visits…read morethis food truck. Note: Customer Service is not their strong suit and you may encounter some negative attitude when you're ordering. This type of service applies to monolingual English and bilingual Spanish Spanish-speakers. I tried a variety of their tacos. They are the smaller street tacos which comes with two tortillas. What stands out about their tacos is the texture and chewiness of the tortillas. I enjoyed the tortillas as they were unique compared to most other types. I had a variety of meats, including chicken, lengua and tripe. I wish I could say which one was my favorite. However, I didn't know which one was which, though since it was not labeled of course and I don't expect it to be. The meats were seasoned nicely and tasty. If I was nearby and in a pinch, I would try their food again.

The food is good. Hit or miss. I usually go for the gorditas…read moreor the tacos (chicken) I wouldn't give it a 5 star though. They charge $1 to use tap / card , which is illegal in California. But they wouldn't understand that. Sometimes it can get packed so I call ahead while driving over. Sometimes they can't keep up with the condiments (salsas / lemon wedges / etc) seem like they're always out. But they're nice enough to cut it up right away if you let them know. Just had my tacos, they were okay. I get drinks separately at the superior market adjacent to the lunch truck or just bring water from home. I was here last night 4/24 - I got a taste of "old" meaning the food tasted such a way it was left out too long, so brought it down 1 star from original 3 star.

El Paraiso Food Truck

4.5

(21 reviews)

Bought a carne asada burrito most of the burrito was rice and minimal meat cost of $12.00 for a…read morerice burrito first time and last time I go there I would not recommend going there should of went to Taqueria Tapatia what I had in mind but ended up here.

amazing tacos! The best in Orange County made with passion. I get the chicken tacos, suadero,…read morechorizo. get your sh** together and eat at el parais!

Taqueria Los Grandes

4.0

(343 reviews)

If you're craving delicious Mexican food, look no further than Taqueria Los Grandes! I'm quite…read morepicky when it comes to Mexican cuisine, and this place has quickly become my family's favorite spot. Located in a simple corner location, it doesn't have the fancy ambiance of a high-end restaurant like Javier's--but that's what makes it special. Here, you get fantastic, flavorful food at a great price without the upscale vibe. The carne asada burritos and shredded beef tacos are always spot on, bursting with authentic flavors. Don't come here expecting fine dining; this is all about great food. That said, every time I've visited, the employees have been courteous and helpful, adding to the overall positive experience. I can't believe this place doesn't have more 5-star reviews--it truly deserves them. If you want tasty Mexican food without breaking the bank, Taqueria Los Grandes is the place to go!

I'm completely obsessed with Los Grandes' beef shredded tacos! I discovered this hidden gem during…read moremy college days in Santa Ana, and their spicy red salsa and chili oil still perfectly complement the dish. The rice and beans are exceptional, and the service is always friendly and efficient. Thank you, Los Grandes!

Taqueria Carniceria Tapatia

4.0

(319 reviews)