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Anytime is a great time for Mexican, and that’s especially true in Santa Monica, CA. Our fair city has phenomenal Mexican restaurants right in our own backyard, whether you want traditional and authentic or modern. Check out just a few of the excellent Mexican spots we have nearby.
Mercado
If you’re looking for a Mexican restaurant that combines high-end cuisine with modern flair and classic dishes, Mercado is the place for you. Make the drive to this award-winning restaurant in your Range Rover and enjoy the ride with its intuitive infotainment system, easy-to-use menus, and in-dash navigation. With Apple CarPlay and your premium sound system, you can listen to Spotify on the way over. The menu at Mercado has something for everyone and is well worth the trip.
Mercado serves up favorites like carne asada (grilled skirt steak), carnitas, and enchiladas de pollo (enchiladas made with chicken). While you’re there, try the Camarones al ajillo, a Mexican sweet shrimp with chili peppers. Located on Fourth Street, Mercado is a modern, trendy space that can get very busy, so get there early on the weekend.
Blue Plate Taco
Blue Plate Taco, located on Pico Boulevard in Santa Monica, is famous for its tacos and outstanding Mexican food. Blue Plate Taco offers many organic and sustainably farmed ingredients, which contribute to the fresh, mouthwatering flavors. The menu is simple and primarily includes tacos, fajitas, burritos, and bowls. There’s also a kid’s menu.
The fajitas are made with organic chicken, sauteed peppers, and onions and served with guacamole, pico de gallo (salsa), rice, and beans. You can also get the fajitas with steak, shrimp, and veggie only. The excellent tacos are soft or hard shell corn tortillas filled with meat and topped with cilantro, onions, and salsa. You can order them with different fillings—like chicken, lobster, shrimp, or steak—and they’re all fantastic.
Lares Restaurant
Check out Lares if you want traditional Mexican with all the bells and whistles. This family-run establishment has been serving authentic Southern Mexican cuisine since 1968, and its old-world décor makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a time machine. The meals are served in the traditional style with generous portions and amazing flavors.
The Shrimp al Mojo de Ajo is one of our favorites—the shrimp are so fresh and tender that you’ll be amazed by how much flavor they pack into each bite. The Camarones a la Diabla is another excellent choice if you want something spicy. You can also try their tacos, fajitas, or enchiladas if you’re looking for a guaranteed palate pleaser!
Tacos Por Favor
Tacos Por Favor serves up classic Mexican cuisine and has been around since the 1990s. This family-owned restaurant with multiple locations in the area makes many “best Mexican” lists with its massive burritos, tacos, and California burritos. The food is simply fantastic, and they also have vegan and vegetarian options.
If you’re a fan of Mexican food, check out any of the terrific Santa Monica restaurants. And while you’re out, stop by Santa Monica SUVs for a great selection of pre-owned vehicles. We’ll be happy to set up a test drive and help you find the perfect SUV!
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