Originally from Southern CA, my expectations are pretty high and this place exceeded it! The ambiance is cute for a lunch date, the plating was beautiful, and the food was delicious. It is authentic in the sense they add limes, and traditional spices that reminded me of home. The salsa was so delicious, I even asked if I could purchase it to take some home. The ease of ordering is great as well. Definitely make a stop here! I loved it! read more

Taqueria La Marea - Mexican Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

There was parking across the street for us luckily since all the curbside spots were taken. The restaurant is right on the corner and once you walk in the counter to order is right there. The special today was a torta for $17.50 that I'll be getting next time, but I came here for tacos with my husband. We got there around 12:30 pm and just happened to beat the rush! I ordered our food for takeout, and it came out pretty fast. I ordered the Vampiro tacos, which is 4 open faced birria tacos. It doesn't come with consommé, and didn't need it to be honest. My husband got the 3 for $15 tacos, carne asada, pork belly, and birria. All good! Inside was pretty clean and nice and breezy for a Hawai'i day in February. We will definitely be coming back! read more

If you want some amazing tasting Mexican food? This is a must!! Hands down the best Mexican food in the island. Pork belly burrito is to die for. read more

Taqueria La Marea - Outside entrance - Mexican Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

They have online ordering available, payment will go through, you'll get notified when order is ready....youll show up to pick up....but the entire building is shut down. Their phone system rings but they are completely closed. FALSE ADVERTISING & YES I ORDERED ON A WEDNESDAY. During "business hours" read more

Taqueria La Marea - Mexican Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Taqueria, La Marea it's located and lower Kalihi, on the corner of Republican and Kalihi Street They've been around for at least five years that I recall. I remember dining there when they first opened. Parking was a problem, and still is, but! It's worth dealing with the parking issue for some delicious Hispanic food. Average price is five dollars per taco. It is pricey, but good. You'll get the same effect and satisfaction with the burrito and probably lesser and cost when you think about it. They are a no-frills establishment. That said you really don't need all the add-ons like guacamole or salsa. Food is extremely tasty and delicious as is. Be there I'll be square read more

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This place hit all of our Mexican Cravings! Its a small place with a few tables inside and out. The street parking is a bit tricky too. It's like hitting the lottery if you find a parking spot in the front. As for the food, the Birria Tacos are legit. Authentic and Saucy. The burrito was a HUGE creation. Filled to the max with all the best ingredients. We definitely did not leave hungry. read more

Taqueria La Marea - La Birria Tacos & Burrito - Mexican Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Visiting and looked through Yelp for a taco place. So glad this came up in my options!!! The birrea tacos were piping hot and DELICIOUS. My friend ordered the chicken tacos and loved them, too! We both had the hibiscus drink; it was a little different than any other we have had (usually bland) and we really liked it!!! Brent helped us; he was super nice and friendly and helped me choose the birrea tacos from all the options. Best ever!! Thank you!! read more

Came here for lunch on a weekday and the service was fast and polite! Decent amount of seating inside with a few seats outside. I ordered the works taco plate which comes with a side of chips & salsa and a drink (not pictured). I ordered the chicken, pork belly, and birria tacos. They were all delicious and loaded up with plenty of meat, but the pork belly one especially surprised me. It was so tender and fatty and crispy, some of the best pork belly I've had in a while. The rice and beans were standard. Definitely pretty authentic Mexican food and great spot for a lunch break! read more

Taqueria La Marea - The Taco Works - Mexican Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Decided to give them another shot since I work close. And thank goodness finally no cilantro was in my food. I got the 3 tacos. Only thing I will say is they don't give the option to select more than one option twice when ordering the 3 tacos so I got called saying I only selected 2. I got 2 pork belly and 1 carnitas. Both were good. I like the pickled onions and how they are generously filled. I coulda swore they used to give 2 tortillas with the tacos but now they only give one. read more

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Located on Kalihi St. Parking is a bit tough, luckily I found street parking. Ate the fried chx tacos- and it was soooo goood!!!! Love the cotija cheese it came with. Just wish the chx was shredding a bit more. Will be back :) read more

Some of the best Mexican food I have ever had. And the staff is incredible if I do say so myself. read more

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Currently im only giving you imposters only 1 star, just so that i can make this big big beautiful review. Attitude's and style needs to change or i will spread the word about your fake "Mexican ", food. Their Burritos bland, salsa was soo sad that i almost cried lol. It looked like can tomato and diced onions!! Where is the real hot homemade salsa? I wish i could also give 0 to the customer disservice. read more

First visit in awhile. I am now a vegetarian so the options are more limited. I had the elote which was a bit average. It needed slathers of mayo as it was a bit dry. Veggie taco featured strips of Portobello mushrooms and was okay but not sure that I would order again. read more

Taqueria La Marea - Interior with merch. - Mexican Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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Came back with my fiancé after I've been raving about this place to him ever since I first tried it. He loved it and said it was the best tacos he's ever had. We ordered 2 pork belly tacos, 1 steak taco, and the "Birria Works" which came with rice, beans, chips, salsa, and a drink. The pork belly tacos are to die for. The skin is extremely crispy while the meat is so soft and juicy, and it is topped with pickled onions and cilantro which enhance the flavor. The steak taco was very good as well as it was came with a nice, refreshing pico de gallo. Finally, the birria tacos was a great "bang for your buck" meal. The meat was very tender and flavorful...and it was very packed. The shell was super cheesy and crispy, and the consome tied it all together. The rice and beans were a nice side while the chips and salsa was a tasty appetizer. To top it off, we got the Jamaica agua fresca as our drink and it was delicious. It had a nice fruity, refreshing taste with a hint of cinnamon. Overall, we rate this experience a 10/10. The food was amazing and the staff was very friendly, we'll definitely be coming back. read more

Taqueria La Marea - Birria Combo and Taco Works - Mexican Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Best tacos on the island! I had the pork belly and asada tacos, and my only regret was not ordering more. After that first visit, I was hooked now I come here once or twice a month, and it never disappoints. The tacos are always fresh and flavorful, the staff is super friendly, and the service is quick even when they're slammed. Easily my go-to taco spot on the island! read more

Visiting from LA. We found this place on Yelp and after landing drove over for the first meal of the day. The food did NOT disappoint! It was delicious. The disappointment came in learning that they would be closing their doors at the end of February 2026 and we will not be able to enjoy this amazing little gem on future visits. Wishing Amelia and her family all the best. If you haven't made it here, get your fill before they close their doors. read more

So haven't been to TAQUERIA LA MAREA in a while. The food is great as always and I got the Taco Sampler (6 tacos) $24.00 Something new for me was that it didn't come with salsa and I had to pay extra for Habanero x 3 $1.50 And there is a Credit card surcharge (3.0%) read more

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Honest? The parking is HORRID but the food is GOOD. You'll have to drive around and around and around the block to find a spot, but your meal won't disappoint you. The tacos are solid and they have one of the best birria and pork belly you can find anywhere here on island. The meat is succulent and flavorful. They do, however, charge extra for their spicy sauces, but for me, it's worth it. How can you eat tacos without the H-E-A-T, ya know?! The inside is super quaint and there are a couple of tables and a long bar-ish seating area, so you can definitely eat there if you don't want to take your food to-go. It is hot, though, so be prepared to sweat if you're adding in the spice, too. La Marea's prices are fair and the quality is definitely there; so if you're craving a good street taco, birria, elote, or even churros, you want to put this on your list to try. Just go early so you can build in the time it will take to find parking. read more

What an amazing hidden gem! Tucked away in Kalihi is probably the best taco spot on the island. I almost want to gate-keep. Parking is a little difficult, but not impossible and definitely worth it. The service was so incredibly friendly and helpful. I ordered the chips and salsa, some tacos, and my friend got the Vampire Tacos. The price point was super reasonable and for the taste- I could not complain. The vampire tacos (which I definitely stole from my friend) were my favorite part of the meal. Although, my 3 taco plate was also an amazing feast. read more

Taqueria La Marea - 3 Tacos - Mexican Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Now these are real street tacos! Flavorful, juicy, and delicious. I was able to try them when they were at a festival recently. Haven't had the chance to visit them in their storefront though. Service was very friendly and nice! I would come visit to try their other items in the future. read more

Taqueria La Marea - 3 tacos (carne asada, carnitas, pollo) - delicious! - Mexican Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Originally wanted the bfast burrito that was on special but they had run out Got chicken tacos instead Lots of filling and very tasty. Messy though so you definitely need napkins. They have a couple of tables inside and some on the outside. It gets really windy though so make sure you hold onto your filling and napkins. I think the worst thing about the place is parking. You have to get lucky or walk really far. Luckily for us we just walked down the street from work. If you like street tacos id recommend this place. Their burritos are huge too. If you're looking for something "healthier" like a salad, then youre out of luck. read more

Taqueria La Marea - Regular Chicken tacos (not crispy) - Mexican Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

That pork belly burrito though!! Hittin on all cylinders!! One of the burritos I've had in awhile. A bit pricey, but worth it. The online ordering made it easy, I work across the street and you can smell the food cooking everyday. Quick grab and go, I suggest to either phone order or online ordering, parking limited. Wish guac and salsa came with on the side, other than that, Im eating here again. Gracias Taqueria La Marea!! read more

Deeeelicious! So tasty I swore a bunch of times! Friendly staff! Cute place! I can't wait to go back! Thank you read more

Taqueria La Marea - Elote - Mexican Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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Self-proclaimed taco snob? Yeah, that's me. Growing up in California, I have a high standard for tacos and try to avoid Mexican food in Hawaii for that fact. But, with my friend visiting and a taco on her mind, we had to make it happen. So I searched Yelp for tacos and Taqueria La Marea came up! With rave reviews from fellow Yelpers, I knew I could trust this spot. We stopped by on the weekend which was a great call it was quiet and the service was efficient! There's very limited street parking but we snagged a spot in front. The open-air shop is easy to locate since it's on the corner. There are a few tables inside and a long table with stools. The decorations are cute with colorful flags and artistic lights and lamps. Their hours are limited as they're predominately open for lunch so come early! After browsing the menu and their daily specials, my friend decided on three veggie tacos while I got one Carnitas and one Chicken taco. Holy moly--one bite of theirs and I knew I found the best taco spot on the island. The carnitas was overflowing in the tortilla, the meat was extremely juicy and tender, and the salsa verde on top was the perfect amount and the right spice. The Chicken was shredded nicely, light yet packed with flavor, and came piled high with a kick! Out of the two the carnitas was my favorite. We also got complimentary chips and salsa with the tacos, which was great to snack on. Plus with the Yelp Check-In offer, I got a free churro! The churro was loaded with cinnamon sugar on top and very crispy and crunchy. Taqueria La Mera serves some of the best tacos and burritos in Honolulu! You can find this place in Kalihi off of Kalihi Street. For the portion size, authentically mouthwatering taste, and quick service this place is officially my favorite place to get tacos on the island! I can't wait to come back already! read more

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Any time I come to Honolulu I find a way to make my way here. Their pork belly tacos are some of the best tacos I've ever had. This is enough to make me come back every time. The place is small but very nice inside. They are always busy when I come here and can be hard to find parking in the area, but it is so worth the drive and time. Their habanero salsa is crazy good. It is very hot so if you don't like the heat don't use too much. The people here are always very friendly and helpful with the menu. read more

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Best Tacos in the Island! Im from LA and wife is Mexican and she approves, we basically cannot eat tacos anywhere else. Only downside, they're closed on weekends but they deserve the break. read more

Dropped by on way back from the airport and had a delicious special of the day chicken mole tacos. Only disappointed in the size...two bites but very delicious! read more

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5 stars for the food, 1 star for service. I'm so annoyed right now. I tried calling multiple times but couldn't get through. Fine, I understand they must be busy. So I decide to order in person. 15 minutes in, I see a girl who showed up after us get her food. I make a comment to my bf (we're a few feet away from the cashier so she must have heard) that we've been waiting forever and I wonder if the food on the counter is ours. She looks over at me but doesn't say anything. 30 minutes in, I ask her how much longer? Since the guy who ordered right before us is already done eating and left at this point. She asks me what I ordered again and if we called it in?! No ma'am, I ordered with you. I spoke to you in person. Good thing I asked for a receipt. She then goes to ask the back and turns out the bag of food sitting on the counter for 20 minutes already at this point is my food. She hands it to me with no apologies. Did she think we were just sitting (right in front of the cashier, so she saw us there the whole time) just for fun? LOL We drive home and great, it's cold. I'm so disappointed with my experience because prior to this visit, I would have told anyone who asked this was my new favorite Mexican place. I'm not sure if I can recommend it anymore. read more

Not authentic, no substantial special for national burrito day, the "carne asada" in the burrito was (a very minimal amount compared to other places) was mostly all gristle, way overpriced for the quality ($17), did not feel well after eating half the burrito (headache / nausea), and the service/communication is much better at other places. There are other legitimate quality places for your $ in my opinion. I typically judge a taqueria by their carne asada. I would post a picture of all the chewed-up gristle, but I don't think anybody wants to see that. Needless to say I will not be going back. read more

Came for the food on Cinco De Mayo, stayed for the vibes! Awesome little place with down to earth staff. Had a steak burrito, coworkers had street tacos, elotes and a combo platter. It was relatively busy, but staff handled it with ease. Will stop by again and again!!! That habanero is delicious! 10/10 read more

A little whole in the wall, but let me tell you the best races comes out of this place. My co-workers told me about this place and ever since I've been HOOKED!!!! The crispy pork belly and to top it off with some spicy habanero. DELICIOSA!!!!!!!! read more

Taqueria La Marea - 3 beautiful Pork Belly Tacos - Mexican Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Great burrito on the go! Very quick service, stopped off on my way to the airport. Mexican food in Hawaii with some actual spice! Hit the spot and very nice people read more

Hole in the wall on Kalihi St, this place rocks! The food was pretty darn good. I didn't get a chance to take photos of each item I bought, but trust me, I am returning to this place again. Street Parking available. Beware! Don't park near Chong's Store across the street. She looked angry and likely will call police to have your vehicle towed. The storefront is clean. The staff are nice and work efficiently to get your order out. It was crowded and many patrons were frequent flyers. Yes, I am one who will ask others what's best to eat here, even while they're eating. Everyone said the Barrini was good. Not sure if I spelled this correctly. It was suggested to order it fried and that's what I did. So good! The dessert was just ok. The Horracha was way too sweet for my pallet. Price was pretty good. Support small local businesses is a must. Head out to this place and feast on some delicious Mexican cuisine. read more

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This hidden gem is located in Kalihi across Ethel's Grill. I never knew this place existed till the place we were originally gonna go eat at was closed. It was perfect we spotted this place because it's Taco Tuesday! When we walked in, it was a cute Encanto themed like small corner place and super clean. I love how the counter had so much open space. The cashier was friendly and greeted us upon entrance. We ordered our food, and they had a special going on Taco Tuesday. I ordered the Birria Tacos and a Horchata drink. The tacos were really good. Filled with so much meat and I love how it wasn't cheesy. Because for me, I'm not a fan of too much cheese. The soup/dip sauce that came with it was tasty too. Not too salty and not like super oily. I also loved the horchata, it was a perfect amount of sweet goodness and not so grainy. I would definitely come back here again as I want to try the other stuff on their menu! read more

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Third times the charm! After attempting to eat here 2 times only to discover the restaurant was closed (make sure to check their hours, they are closed a couple days each week), we finally decided to try a third time. I am so glad we didn't give up!! Everything was so delicious. The salsa was amazing and my burrito had plenty of meat and the right proportion of cheese, beans etc. the parking across the street does not allow parking for Taqueria La Marea so be sure to find street parking. The portions are also generous and I couldn't finish everything that I ordered (yay leftovers!!) read more

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Great for taco Tuesday! Definitely call ahead and pickup. Small seating and limited parking. I normally order the works, comes with 3x street tacos, beans, rice, chips, salsa, and a drink. They don't skimp on the tacos which is always a plus! read more

Taqueria La Marea - Updated hours - Mexican Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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My husband is Mexican and grew up in California and we both have been craving good authentic tacos. Unfortunately, we have yet to find a place we were satisfied with... until now! My husband got a carnitas burrito, and I got 3 carnitas taco. The carnitas was flavorful and, most importantly, not dry. The flavors of the salsa were on point and they did not skimp on the portions! Oh and I have to add, today they had strawberry guava agua fresca, and it was one of the BEST I've ever had in my life! Seriously, I'd come just for this lol This place is now our favorite place to get tacos :) I'll have to slowly make my way through the menu to try everything :) read more

Taqueria La Marea - 2 of the 3 carnitas tacos (I ate one), and in the back ground, their AMAZING strawberry guava agua fresca - Mexican Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

After my first visit here through a yelp elite event, I've been wanting to return. I'm so glad I did! They are open for dining now with a few tables outside. Parking is very limited. There are two coned spots right in front of the restaurant though. We decided to do take-out and you can order online for pickup. Their Mexican food is sooo yummy! We ordered a few stuff. I was craving a burrito, so I got the chicken burrito combo that came with rice and beans. We also ordered the sampler that came with one of each tacos. I like that they use very minimum cotija cheese. The burrito was quite filling, so I saved half for lunch the next day. The meat in the tacos were very flavorful and tender. They have two mini tortillas with the tacos and it was perfect in splitting the meat filling into two tacos. So even if it's six tacos, it seemed like a dozen. The meal also came with chips and salsa. Think we needed more salsa for our bag of chips. I checked in on yelp and got a free churro which came in three pieces. The churro was crispy and not too sweet. I was very satisfied after eating the food. The best reward for myself after a long week of working. Love this place! read more

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Drove there today and saw they will not be back till 9/19 in case anyone was planning to go this week. Love the food here cannot wait for them to return! read more

Taqueria La Marea - Will reopen 9/19/23 - Mexican Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

I'm out here helping my parents move, so it's more work than play. But I was beginning to miss Mexican food, but more specific, birria tacos which are my current crush. I searched on Yelp, and La Marea came up. It is located in an industrial area of Kalihi that is part commercial, part residential. Parking can be an issue, so I advise not going during lunch time. Friendly greeting when it was my turn, ordered the tacos and an orange soda. The space is cozy, with about seven stools to sit at a wood counter that faces the street. The tacos smelled sooooooo good! They were very hot, so I waited for them to cool and ate the complimentary chips and salsa. I then dipped the first one in the consomme and was in birria taco heaven!!! If I wasn't going to dinner in a few hours, I would've had two more, so that will have to wait until next time. Of course, you'll have leftover consomme, so I drank it! Really good flavor!!! Now, if they'd consider offering a birria ramen... Mahalo Taqueria La Marea! Until next August! read more

Taqueria La Marea - Homesick for birria tacos! - Mexican Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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