So you’re craving carnitas and the forecast promised sunshine, but Westminster’s coastal breeze just delivered a reality check. We’ve got you. These 14 Mexican spots not only serve the most authentic al pastor in town, but they’ll also keep you cozy with steaming bowls of pozole and margaritas that warm you from the inside out. Because nothing beats California weather like California-Mexican hospitality.
Del Taco
$ | (714) 898-8364 | WEBSITE
Del Taco serves solid renditions of classic Mexican fast food—perfect for fueling up on a busy day. With its convenient drive-thru setup, it’s the kind of place that you can swing into on a moment’s notice. But if for whatever reason you don’t want to wait in line, you can grab a seat (and a quick meal) in the simple dining area that’s decked out with bright lighting and plastic furnishings.
El Pollo Loco
$ | (714) 799-0878 | WEBSITE
As far as fast-casual Mexican spots go, there aren’t many in Westminster worth making a big fuss over. Except for El Pollo Loco. Everything is done exceedingly well, from the hot-off-the-grill chicken to the tostada that’s one of the most flavorful dishes we’ve had. And while you can typically get a seat inside, the clean, bright dining area is an equally acceptable option, with friendly service being handed out as needed.
Tacos El Gringo- Catering
$ | (714) 260-3696 | WEBSITE
You’ll find the bulk of Tacos El Gringo-Catering’s authentic magic inside, where you can grab a seat at the vibrant counter and enjoy a Killa Cali Burrito while admiring the colorful folk art across the dining area. But if you’re doing all that flavor-chasing outside, they do offer quick pickup when you’re in a rush. Take it as an opportunity to settle in, stay awhile, and soak in the lively, no-fuss energy of Westminster.
Amigos Cafe
$ | (714) 622-5959 | WEBSITE
Amigos Cafe needs no introduction. This family-owned spot in Westminster has been at it for years, and the clean, welcoming environment with hand-placed stickers on cups and take-out boxes has a lot to do with its success. And they’ve got you covered with generous portions and friendly service that make you feel right at home.
Sabrosada Fresh Mexican Food
$ | (714) 775-9550 | WEBSITE
A bustling drive-thru, ample outdoor seating, and as many to-go orders as sit-down meals—classic Sabrosada. This Westminster spot doesn’t need reservations, but you can pull up to the window and grab some chips and salsa as you wait for a seat at their spacious patio with string lights—plus, of course, nightly specials.
Taqueria Guerrero Style
$ | (657) 400-9017 | WEBSITE
Sunshine pretty much always bathes Taqueria Guerrero Style, thanks to its Southern California location. And since casual dining is all too common in Westminster, the Mexican spot is at the ready with easy parking and a fun atmosphere.
Once you’re comfortably settled in, you can save yourself from saying things like ‘wow, look at how authentic this tastes,’ and instead, dig into their satisfying asada burrito filled with flavorful meat and fresh ingredients like their own pickled jalapenos, carrots, and onions.
Taco Grill
$ | (714) 841-2444 | WEBSITE
Taco Grill’s fish tacos top the to-eat list of any self-respecting taco enthusiast. And since the family-run spot has perpetual lines, especially on Taco Tuesday, there’s a chance you and your tacos might end up at the salsa bar. Ice-cold beer is on deck, though, so you can stay refreshed while drizzling spicy salsa over your blackened fish tacos.
Navarros Taqueria
$ | (714) 622-5848 | WEBSITE
When you head to Navarros Taqueria in Westminster, there’s a solid chance you’ll be grabbing a spot on the patio because that’s where they fire up the grill for carne asada on weekends. But don’t worry about missing out on the smoky flavors while you’re out there. The welcoming atmosphere wraps you right up, so settle in and get ready to dig in.
Freshco Mexican Grill
$ | (714) 622-5341 | WEBSITE
If the line is too long at your usual Mexican spot, Freshco Mexican Grill is a solid alternative just down the street. The Westminster restaurant is a dependable choice for carne asada fries topped with refried beans or the highly recommended Cuban torta. Their modern interior is clean and spacious, but if you want some fresh air besides the comfortable indoor seating, they have outdoor tables available, too.
Lorena’s Mexican Food
$ | (714) 622-4650 | WEBSITE
When your stomach is rumbling after a long drive through Orange County and you need to dive into a piping-hot burrito, head to Lorena’s Mexican Food. The drive-up Mexican spot near Magnolia is perfect for the quick, satisfying meal—and on days when the California sun is beating down, grab a seat at the outside eating area to enjoy your food in the fresh air.
Molcajete Grill
$ | (714) 899-7140 | WEBSITE
Walk into a Mexican restaurant in this town, and you better be prepared to protect your appetite from the Three Horsemen of flavor-pocalypse (Bland, Dry, and Meager). Molcajete Grill in Westminster is prepared—perfectly folded chicken burritos sit atop the hearty plates and combos, like culinary soldiers at the ready. The 2 hard shell taco combo, featuring flavorful chicken, rice, beans, chips, and salsa, is a must-try, with prices hovering around $12 for a meal that feels like home.
Burritos, including the chicken burrito and molcajete special, are also highly recommended for their generous quantity and value for money, while the chimichangas, described as life-changing and crispy with generous stuffing, have also received praise. The complimentary chips and salsa are a nice touch, and the food is described as delicious and homey. The atmosphere is lively and inviting, with friendly and attentive service, making for an enjoyable dining experience.
While the food may take a while to arrive, it is worth the wait, as the portions are generous and the flavors are described as delicious and homey.
Casa Brito Mexican Food Restaurant
$ | (714) 891-7513 | WEBSITE
Mexican restaurants are great until the portion sizes leave everyone’s stomachs groaning. Casa Brito is prepared. The family-owned spot right in Westminster has generous reinforcements at the ready—excellent news for anyone trying to maintain appetite while digging into a spread of grilled meat plates and chile rellenos.
Taqueria Mexico
$ | (714) 894-5850 | WEBSITE
The late-night scene at Taqueria Mexico feels like a bustling street market transported straight into Westminster. It’s also open until the early hours, brightly lit, and equipped with quick service, so you probably don’t have to worry too much about your hunger pangs developing into full-blown cravings as you make your way through a hefty Carnasada Burrito.
Tacos El Rancho
$ | (714) 898-2720 | WEBSITE
The dining area at this Mexican spot in Westminster is so cozy it could pass for a staged family room in a modern suburban home. And, of course, there are the spacious booths, which are neatly arranged and offer plenty of room. They’ll keep you nice and comfortable while you dig into a generously portioned taco filled with asada or adobada.