I grew up eating at Wahoo's back when there was only one location in Costa Mesa on 19th Street before it turned into one of the biggest chains in Southern California. I even met owner Wing Lam over the years and designed a few ads for him back when I worked at at OC Weekly. But enough about me, let's talk about the food. I kept it simple and ordered two classics, the 1988 Taco and the Crispy Fish Taco. Both came loaded with fresh cabbage, pico de gallo, melted cheese, and Wahoo's signature sauces. The 1988 Taco has that classic Baja-style flavor with tender grilled fish, while the Crispy Fish Taco takes it up a notch with crunchy beer-battered Alaska pollock, melted cheese, citrus slaw, and cilantro sauce. Everything tasted fresh, from the crisp cabbage to the chunky pico, and the sauces tied everything together without overpowering the fish. The crispy taco had a nice crunch, while the grilled fish taco let the flavor of the fish shine through. These are the kind of tacos that remind you why Wahoo's became so popular in the first place. And for the beef lovers out there, you've got to try their teriyaki beef bowl. Back in the day I think it was called the Number 13, and it was one of my favorites. Honestly, it's hard to go wrong here. Everything I've had over the years has been consistently good, and that's probably why this place has lasted as long as it has. read more

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The employees are so nice and friendly. Really good people. The cashier and food runner are wonderful. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Restaurant is really clean, spacious, and comfortable.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Food is really good. Got the Banzai Bowl with spicy fish. Very flavorful and filling. I'd come back to this location. read more

Wahoo's Fish Taco - "Banzai Bowl" - Mexican Near Me - Tustin, California

I hadn't tried wahoo's in a very long time and was so impressed with dinner tonight. The cashier was really nice and helpful in answering my questions so I could figure out what was plant based. I ended up ordering the protein bowl which comes with two proteins of your choice, citrus slaw, sautéed veggies, and avocado. I ordered tofu as one of the proteins and half brown rice half black beans as the second protein. Loved! The bowl was delicious and filling, especially with the sides of pico de gallo. They also said that they have mushrooms as a vegan option as well. Highly recommend! read more

Wahoo's Fish Taco - Vegan Protein Bowl with tofu, black beans, brown rice, citrus slaw, sautéed veggies, and avocado. So good! - Mexican Near Me - Tustin, California

Food was delicious and fresh but unfortunately there was an error on our takeout order (which we didn't notice until getting back home) and we received pinto beans instead of black beans on two of orders. read more

Wahoo's Fish Taco - green enchilada combos - Mexican Near Me - Tustin, California

I really love this wahoos. [[HIGHLIGHT]]It's always so clean, the serves are just wonderful and go above and beyond to ensure you're enjoying your food.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Special shout out to the female server with glasses that is always so sweet and kind to us when we come in! She always is smiling and so helpful. Genuinely can't say enough about our neighborhood wahoos. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The food is good, the beer is delicious and the place and employees are wonderful![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I would go every day if my wallet and waistband would allow me. read more

During the holiday season last December, we purchased several $50 gift cards as part of a promotion at the Foothill Ranch location. When we attempted to use them in January, we were informed that one of the cards had no value loaded, despite the fact that we had never used it. The employee assisting us was exceptionally kind and genuinely tried to help resolve the issue. Over the following two months, we escalated the matter by speaking with the store manager, Claudia, and by contacting their headquarters in Tustin. Despite multiple attempts and assurances that the issue would be reviewed, we never received a single follow‑up or explanation. The complete lack of response has left a deeply negative impression of their customer service and accountability. read more

Let me just say this has nothing to do with the food this has to do with employees I usually go to Wahoo's after the lunch rush usually after 2:00 then I like to go in there and it's not so crowded and it's just nicer but it seems like the employees here use the slow Time after the lunch rush to not do much I walked in stood in front of the counter and couldn't believe what a ghost town it was there was nobody in the kitchen whatsoever there was nobody of course at the counter so I just stood there quietly to see how long it would take for them to acknowledge I'm standing there and it took long enough where I was pretty shocked and when the girl finally came out from the back I asked what was going on I got really no answer she just proceeded to talk fast and that's what I wanted of course with attitude at that point like I did something wrong so I sat down the food showed up I enjoyed my lunch like I said this is nothing to do with the food the food's always great it's the employees but I wonder if she ever thought what if I was a Wahoo's executive or the franchise owner or whatever do you think if they got the same experience she wouldn't be giving this girl a talking to and the man who was supposed to be in the kitchen makes you think it sucks because I usually have very good experiences when I come eat at Wahoos of course I'm remaining a loyal customer I just wish the employees would see things the way they should seeing they got their 20 dollars a hour. read more

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The service is terrible, and when we finally got our food it was warm at best. So many other place that are much better in OC. Don't waste your time or money. read more

Been a minute but got the crispy fish and spicy fish taco with guacamole (honestly the best guacamole I've try so far). Service was great as well! [[HIGHLIGHT]]As for the vibe it was cool, I do miss the stickers though:([[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

The service was fantastic as soon as I walked in the door. The cashier was very friendly, polite, and explained everything that was different with each bowl. It had been awhile since my last visit. The salsa bar was stocked, make sure you get the special green sauce. I got two banzai bowls and the cashier was willing to accommodate all the add-ins and substitutions I wanted. He brought the food to me as well. The bowls came out hot and delicious, prepared as requested. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The place was clean but I just couldn't find napkins?[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Been a customer for years, I'll keep going back for tasty and healthy meals. read more

Ordered protein bowl and 1988 fish burrito. The food is consistent with the flavor. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The place is clean and good service[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

This Wahoo's has some of the best costumer service! The staff is amazing, friendly and quick with togo orders! They double check each order, to make sure it's correct! [[HIGHLIGHT]]The restaurant is always clean.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Overall they provide quality service, clean restaurant and quality wahoos food! They make Tustin proud, and keep us coming to wahoos! [[HIGHLIGHT]]Doesn't hurt they have a nice little bar with 2 TVs live time games or quality surf videos![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Wahoo's Fish Taco - My correct order faster than I could finish a great local beer! - Mexican Near Me - Tustin, California

I've always liked Wahoo's. Let me rephrase... I've always liked Wahoo's of Old Towne Orange. Love the ambiance, outdoor seating, the patio fireplace, the live band on the weekends.... My faves... the Margaritas.... the Citrus Slaw Crispy Fish Tacos and Citrus Slaw Shrimp Tacos! Carnitas Tacos are great too! So while walking around beautiful Old Towne Orange... give Wahoo's a visit! Check out my You Tube Short on Wahoo's @socalweekendwalkarounds https://youtube.com/shorts/yvqTmEp9ptk?feature=share read more

Wahoo's Fish Taco - Mango Margarita! - Mexican Near Me - Tustin, California

Service was quick and efficient. We ordered a chicken burrito and 2 taco combo. The food was average. There was nothing special about it. The prices were a bit high for what we paid. I think there are better deals elsewhere. It is average for a chain restaurant. read more

Great food and service, consistently yummy for decades. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Super clean inside and great location.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]

[[HIGHLIGHT]]What is going on with the odor in this restaurant. It smells like a sewer in here.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]It's been like that for a long time.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]I visited today for lunch after not coming for about 6 months or so, and it still smells funny.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Prices are high for what you get. I usually would still go every so often because I like their fish tacos. Now that they changed the tortilla's from flour to corn, will probably stop going. They should give you the option of tortilla types. When I received my meal I asked if these were street tacos because of the size and tortilla type. Anyways, this is a restaurant I will leave off my options for eating out now. read more

Fast service, food was good. They need to work on getting a worker to clean the tables faster . [[HIGHLIGHT]]There was literally 2 parties at 2 tables. But ALL the other tables were dirty.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] My fiancé had to pick up the dishes and wipe down our table . read more

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Today I was very impressed today when I stopped in the order lunch. Blanca at the registered remembered my name from my visit the day before and when I placed my order she said Markk. I said wow out of all the people that come in here I don't know how you would remember my name, she smiled & gave me my change. Impressive experience! Stop in & come grab some lunch in Tustin as they'll make U feel welcomed!! read more

I have been coming to wahoo's for years. Primarily to two of them. Over the years I have had a lot of the menu but one thing that I always order is the steak bowl. I get that the economy has made items get smaller. That is across the industry a thing because the amount of food that I got this time was less than before but the quality of the food has suffered too. The Maui steak bowl has change. The beef flavorings are different and lacked the taste that made it worth eating. I got enough beans to know I had them but not like before so basically I had a ton of rice, a good amount of ok borderline "meh" beef and beans. Barely any reference to tomatoes or salsa that is supposed to come with. It was extremely disappointing to see how a great chain with a great product go down this way. the place is still well put together clean and good in good condition. The ambiance remains the same which is good. The service is always been alright although this time I had to wait to get service. Since I was the only person I should have not to but it happens. read more

DO NOT COME TO THIS WAHOOS. Does not have napkins available for guest. You have to go up and ask and they have a limit on how many they give you. I went to ask for napkins and the worker told me no because she had already placed 2 in my bag. I then told her that I only had 2 and she said that's enough and handed me one more. Rude, bad service, never again. read more

Seriously, this place is awful! I love wahoos! But the cooks never read instructions. I order the Maui bowl every time for the location in Michelson, and I always get extra steak (btw the price for extra steak adds an extra 25% to the meal) at Michelson they always give you extra steak, at this place they sell you a Maui bowl for $20 with extra steak and they give you less! It's a horrendous experience, last time I complained and they said "omg, sorry the cook didn't read that part." Today, I ordered to go, and when I came home... only a little bit of steak. What's the point of having that option, if all you do is scam people! Shame on you wahoos! read more

I really appreciate this good ol' standby with its' simple but really well cooked seafood. It's been at least 5+ years since I've been here and the food is just the same as before. We went here recently and ordered a Wahoo Fish Bowl, $14, no seasoning and it was cooked perfectly with just the right amount of salt. The rice is always cooked well and never crunchy, the salsa is good, and the price is reasonable. This recent meal reminded a food snob like me that these chains are just as good as those mom and pop restaurants. We will be back soon! read more

Super nice guy helping us order and the food is always fresh! You can't beat the location.

$19.37 for a Maui bowl w/cauliflower rice (1.50) and a medium drink 2.49. Used to love coming here, but not at these prices .. RIP Wahoos read more

Great customer service recovery. I had a to-go order and bought the Al Pastor burrito. As I was driving away I noticed they gave me Al Pastor taco. I came back to show them and the gentleman at the counter addressed the situation immediately. Plus he offered a drink for my troubles. Well executed customer service. read more

Wahoo's Fish Taco - the inside of the restaurant - Mexican Near Me - Tustin, California

What's not to like about this place? This is one of the few places my wife and I can go and eat and get what we both want for under $20. Keep in mind this is in 2024. With that said, we usually order à la carte as it helps keep the cost down. [[HIGHLIGHT]]And we love the outdoor patio. It is very, very nice.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

I ordered Wahoo's for lunch today & keeping it short & simple I absolutely enjoyed the kale kai salad. For choice of protein I added shrimp & boy was I impressed with how tasty the shrimp was & the amount of shrimp provided. Talk about generous. The salad itself was delicious with the roasted pepper cilantro dressing. MAGNIFICENT is the word for my salad today, pictures won't do it justice. I'm rating a 4 however because I barley got any black beans or corn on this salad & being of Mexican decent I love my beans & corn. If these two ingredients would've been incorporated well in this salad I would have labeled this my favorite salad. I'll definitely come back again to order this for sure without a doubt. Thank you for the generous amount of shrimp Wahoos. read more

Wahoo's Fish Taco - Kale Kai Salad w/ Shrimp - Mexican Near Me - Tustin, California

Not good. Two persons, each ordered 2 crispy fish tacos. She brought the tacos, 4, on one plate with one fork and 1 napkin. We asked for a second plate. After several minutes, I had to go to the kitchen and find her. She then gave me a second plate. Worst tacos we ever had. Little piece of dried up fish, cold taco that promptly fell apart. Horrible food. Will not be returning. Real different than the Yorba Linda site. This place should close. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Also, several dirty tables. Never cleaned[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]. read more

We go to Wahoos at least twice a month, for lunch. It's always good, but recently it's been great!! We love the fish, grilled or fried, always fresh and flavorful. I usually get the crispy fish tacos. I'm not really a bean lover, so I sub out the beans in my combo plate for the citrus slaw, so fresh, crunchy, and delicious citrussy flavor!! Their white rice is the best, buttery and good!! Today, my daughter and I took my sister-in-law there for lunch. She was raised in this area, but never been to Wahoos before. She absolutely loved it and ate every bit and can't wait to take her husband. She had a grilled fish taco and a red chicken Enchilada, white rice & spicy white beans. My daughter had the chicken taquito combo today. She said it was so good!! I also buy their Maria's green sauce when I'm there. I love that sauce. I take it home and put it on everything! We love it on scrambled eggs in the morning! So yummy! They are always pretty busy, but the service is good & the place is always clean. If you want good quality, flavorful, not too pricey, healthy food, try Wahoos!! You'll love it! read more

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Second time being here this month me and family love this place. It's so refreshing to sit out by the patio and enjoy the warm weather. Customer service here is great, the place is clean, food is amazing as usual. read more

Wahoo's Fish Taco - Mexican Near Me - Tustin, California

Indifferent staff, confusing "specials", and mediocre food compared to Wahoos I have been to in Long Beach (the best), South Coast Plaza and Las Vegas (Boca Park). [[HIGHLIGHT]]The floor is dirty and the salsa bar a mess.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]It looks like more take out than eat in, so maybe it's okay for that.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Super bummed. Cauliflower rice taken off of the menu. Don't need to come here anymore.

Delicious food! We have only ordered take out so far so this review is just for the food. I almost gave 4 stars because one time for our take out order they gave us a plate instead of a salad but it happens. Just be sure to check your food when you order 'to go' from this location if you can. I usually order a chicken burrito. Surprisingly their chicken is just as good as their fish! The burrito u I order comes with their delicious rice and beans so it is very filling. I only need about half to be full! The chips and salsa are good. Nothing special but they do go very well with the meal. The salsa does have a kick to it but I'm very sensitive to spicey foods and I was still able to enjoy it just fine. Enjoy! read more

Wahoo's Fish Taco - Burrito with a side of chips and guac - Mexican Near Me - Tustin, California

Best fish tacos I have ever had - wished they had more locations near me - the fried flounder - and citrus slaw is the best!

I used to work here and to be honest to people who like sea food this is not a bad spot at all. I just came to visit and see if prior employees were still there and kind of wanted to see if anything has changed , nothing much has changed not saying this because I used to work there but they have the restaurant extremely clean .. and good customer service but most importantly the food is really good from salmon bowls , to grilled shrimp tacos and steak bowls! they have there own style slaw with fresh lemon on top , there own fresh salsas and forgot to mention good salads too. This is definitely a good spot to eat if your trying to get be healthier .. def gives me a beach / summer vibe in there .. only reason why I don't give it the 5th star was only because they don't have the legal of spice I'm used to personally looking for something extreme HAHA read more

Service is always great here. Food is tasty and tender. Got chicken tortilla soup which is full of veggies and a spicy chix bonsai bowl. I love the teriyaki sauce on meat and veggies. More than enough food. read more

Excellent service! Went with a large group and Alfredo was attentive and hard working!

We like Wahoo's. We have eaten at this location countless times. We were a little disappointed this last time we went. We used to order a Power Chopper Salad. We were told we could still get it, even though it isn't on the menu any more. We specifically told them when we were ordering that we can't have dairy. They put white rice on our salad, which has butter in it, which was a major bummer because we were hungry and were looking forward to it. We love the green enchilada sauce and the Maria's green salsa. read more

We tried the ceviche plate and it was great! Well proportioned. We were helped by Teresa who was the nicest person ever. Anthony rang us up, such a nice young man! Even though we loved the food, we loved the service more! Kuddos to this team! read more