Mexican Restaurants in Orange County, California: The Best of the Best

Let's face it, there are a lot of Mexican restaurants in Orange County. But not all of them are good. However, some of them are REALLY good.

1. My number one favorite Mexican restaurant in Orange County is Tortilla Flats, hands down. They are VERY reasonably priced, especially for being such a busy place. The Cadillac Margaritas are amazing, especially if you like your margaritas strong.

On Tuesday, they have a taco happy hour; delicious chicken or beef tacos for only $1! The enchiladas have to be one of my favorites, they are just spicy enough and the red enchilada sauce tastes very freshly made. But my FAVORITE dish is the Steak Picado.. Cubed steak with tomatoes, onions, pasilla chiles and cilantro. The decor is outstanding, and they have both indoor and outdoor seating! The service is prompt, the food is hot and the staff is extremely friendly.

2. Second on my list is Taleo Mexican Grill, located in Irvine. I would almost say that this place ties with Tortilla Flats. Everything is made fresh, and brought to you by an attentive and friendly staff. The dining area is decorated exquisitely, Mexican Riviera style, and the bar has comfy soft leather couches to lounge on.

This place is pretty upscale, and a little pricey, but still very affordable, especially since the servings are extremely generous. Try the Pescado Del Dia!

3. Third on my list is Jalapeno's, located in Tustin. The food is extremely affordable and delicious, especially for an order-at-the-counter restaurant.
The fajitas are definitely my favorite! I recommend you not fill up on chips and salsa before hand, as the servings are very large!

The staff is very friendly and attentive, and the food arrives quick and hot!

4. My fourth favorite Mexican restaurant in Orange County is Taco Mesa. It used to be a Taco Bell! All hours of the day, there is a line of people waiting to get their delicious food.

The fish tacos with cojita cheese are absolutely outstanding, as well as the fish tamales in a rich butter sauce and served with a zesty pineapple salsa.

They have an amazing salsa bar, that has to be my favorite part. The service is awesome, and the staff is friendly.

5. Last but definitely not least, El Torito Grill in Newport Beach takes the 5th place n my list. Their hours are great, open until at least 10 PM 7 nights a week.

The decor is what I would describe as very Southwestern, charming and earthy! You can watch their tortillas being made right there at the restaurant!

Their chili rellenos are absolutely mouth-watering, even after you're full, you can't stop eating them! The service is very good, as the staff are extremely friendly and chatty.