Taco cravings come in many forms. Sometimes you want a quick, soft corn tortilla stuffed with juicy carnitas, and other times you’re after something crisp with smoky salsa and a scattering of cilantro. Ventura knows how to satisfy the full range. I’ve spent days weaving between surf breaks and palm trees just to find where the locals line up for their favorite tacos, and more than once, a perfect bite has made me pause right in the middle of the sidewalk.
Whether you like classic street tacos or creative new takes, Ventura’s taquerias and grills offer layers of flavor tucked into every shell. This guide is built from real taste tests, late-night advice from regulars at crowded counters, and plenty of tortilla crumbs. Each spot on this list has something that makes it stand out. Stick with me, and you’ll never have to guess where to get the best tacos in Ventura.
1. Casa De Soria
Casa De Soria has been a staple in Ventura since 1958. Walk in, and you’ll see why generations have made this a weekly habit. The place feels lived-in; stories hum through the booths alongside the scent of roasted chiles.
On my last visit, friendly servers buzzed around, pausing to chat with regulars. The carne asada tacos here steal the show. The char on the meat pairs perfectly with their tortillas, which are always soft but never flimsy. The salsa bar is a local legend, and that punch of house-made flavor brings everything together.
If you’re in the mood for classic Mexican comfort, start with their tacos—order two, maybe three. Casa De Soria’s old-school consistency rarely misses, making it a go-to for authentic tacos in Ventura.
2. El Burrito Alegre
El Burrito Alegre is the type of spot you almost drive past, but you’ll want to turn around. The aroma that drifts out hits you first—pure sizzling goodness. No frills, just a bright little counter and a steady line of regulars paying in cash.
I stopped in on a rainy afternoon and left with a craving for their signature tacos long after I’d finished. The fish tacos here are a quiet triumph, crispy and topped with a tangy slaw that wakes up every bite. Their soft corn tortillas and zesty red salsa elevate every order a notch higher.
If you’re hunting for that local favorite feel, trust the regulars. A duo of tacos al pastor or fish tacos offers freshness and crunch in equal measure, perfectly representing what El Burrito Alegre does so well.
3. Rubio’s
Rubio’s brings coastal vibes to Ventura’s taco scene. It’s somewhere between casual eatery and a breezy surf stop, and the space always bustles with families grabbing dinner on their way home. On my visit, I watched as cooks grilled fresh seafood right in the open kitchen—lots of tempting choices.
The Original Fish Taco is what made Rubio’s famous. It’s wild-caught Alaska Pollock, perfectly battered and tucked into a warm tortilla with a creamy sauce and crisp cabbage. The grilled seafood tacos, including salmon and mahi mahi, keep things light and bright yet full of flavor.
Rubio’s stands out for its emphasis on fresh, responsibly sourced ingredients and craveable, coastal-style tacos. If you want something that tastes like Ventura’s nearby surf and salt air, start here.
4. Yolie’s Mex Grill
(805) 652-0338Call
Yolie’s Mex Grill sits in downtown Ventura, where it’s easy to get drawn in by the comfort food aromas and lively atmosphere. The space is inviting, always buzzing with friends sharing plates and laughter over the hum of conversation. I stopped in on a quiet afternoon and watched families digging into big platters that looked—and smelled—like home.
The grilled chicken tacos shine here. Each bite delivers juicy meat, fire-roasted flavor, and a smoky salsa that brings it all together. Homemade tortillas set them over the top, soft yet sturdy enough to hold all the delicious fillings.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick meal or settling in for a feast, Yolie’s offers classic Ventura taco comfort with a touch of downtown flair. Their commitment to quality is something you can taste in every taco.
5. Maria Bonita
(805) 652-0247Call
Maria Bonita brings something unique to Ventura’s taco lineup. Sitting on Main Street, the restaurant blends traditional Mexican recipes with a few European notes. I dropped in for an early dinner and found a cozy space, upbeat staff, and plates that looked almost too good to eat.
The standout here is their shrimp tacos. Fresh shrimp, grilled just right, get tucked into tortillas with vibrant toppings and a squeeze of lime. There’s a freshness to every bite, and the flavors feel both classic and new.
If you’re curious about tacos done with an elevated touch, Maria Bonita is your spot. These tacos offer a balance of comfort and a little culinary adventure, rooted in quality ingredients.
6. Margarita Villa
Margarita Villa combines harbor views with tasty Mexican classics, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors to Ventura Harbor Village. It’s the kind of place where you look out over the boats and enjoy a relaxed, breezy vibe. My last meal here was at a patio table, watching the sun go down with a plate of fresh tacos.
The grilled fish tacos are the standout. They come with flaky white fish, crisp cabbage, and a hint of creamy sauce wrapped in warm tortillas. Each bite is light, fresh, and lets the seafood shine. The location makes every meal feel like a mini vacation.
If you want tacos with a waterfront view, Margarita Villa is hard to top. It’s Ventura dining at its most scenic and satisfying.
7. Evita’s Mexican Cafe
(805) 656-4571Call
Evita’s Mexican Cafe is tucked along Main Street and feels welcoming from the moment you walk in. The dining room has a cozy charm and a menu that covers everything from tacos to pizza—a surprising touch, but the focus here is definitely on the Mexican classics. I stopped by for lunch, saw a bustling crowd of regulars, and knew I was in the right place.
Chicken tacos here are a real highlight. Freshly cooked, loaded with flavor, and always piled high with crisp toppings. The tortillas are tender, and their house salsa has just enough heat to keep things interesting.
If you want a laid-back meal that never skimps on freshness, Evita’s delivers Ventura taco comfort with every plate. It’s an easy spot to become a regular.
8. El Rey Cantina
El Rey Cantina offers a bit of Ventura nightlife right along Main Street. The first thing you notice is the lively energy and crowds—a mix of locals and visitors—gathered for good times and great food. My visit was on a lively evening, and the house was buzzing, but the staff kept things moving with smiles all around.
The shrimp tacos here are fast favorites. They’re grilled, packed into soft tortillas, and topped with a refreshing blend of cabbage and pico de gallo. Bold flavors, but not too heavy, and just the right hit of lime in every bite.
If you’re in the mood for tacos and a vibrant crowd, El Rey Cantina hits the spot. It’s a true Ventura experience with something for every taco fan.
9. Sharky’s
Sharky’s brings a fresh, healthy spin to Ventura’s taco scene. It’s a fast-casual spot where you can see your food grilled to order and the focus is squarely on quality. My lunch visit had a steady stream of regulars, all in for something quick but packed with flavor.
The wood-grilled chicken tacos are a standout. With a smoky char and layered with crisp veggies, they’re both satisfying and light. Sharky’s uses organic ingredients and non-GMO tortillas, which makes every bite feel wholesome without sacrificing taste.
If you want tacos that are as fresh as they are flavorful, Sharky’s makes it easy to eat well, even when you’re in a hurry. It’s reliable, modern, and always hits the spot.
10. Mexican Express
Mexican Express is one of those tried-and-true spots where you get quick service and generous portions without sacrificing flavor. Set in Scandia Plaza, it keeps things simple but never boring. I grabbed dinner here on a busy weeknight and was impressed by how well the kitchen handled a steady stream of takeout and dine-in orders.
The steak tacos deserve special mention. Tender, marinated pieces of beef are grilled to order and served in soft tortillas, with fresh toppings that add a crisp, cool contrast. Every taco feels hearty and satisfying, with bold flavors shining through.
For convenient, consistent, and high-quality tacos, Mexican Express is a neighborhood favorite. Their attention to the basics turns quick meals into something memorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of tacos are most popular in Ventura?
Ventura’s taco scene covers everything from classic carne asada and al pastor to fresh fish and shrimp tacos. You’ll also find vegetarian and grilled chicken varieties at most places.
Where can I find the best fish tacos in Ventura?
Fish tacos are a Ventura specialty thanks to the coastal location. Check out places like Rubio’s, Margarita Villa, and Beach House Taco for versions that stand out for their freshness and flavor.
Are there vegetarian taco options in Ventura?
Absolutely. Many local spots, including Sharky’s and Rubio’s, offer flavorful grilled veggie tacos and customizable options to suit different diets.
Is it easy to find halal or non-pork taco options in Ventura?
Most taco shops have a variety of fillings like grilled chicken, beef, seafood, and veggies, giving you plenty of halal-friendly and non-pork choices.
What makes Ventura tacos different from tacos in other California cities?
Ventura’s tacos lean into coastal and fresh ingredients—think lighter salsas, seafood, and local produce. There’s a laid-back vibe that shows up in both the food and the local taco joints.
Are taco spots in Ventura good for families?
Definitely. Many of the restaurants on this list are casual, family-friendly, and offer kid-friendly menus alongside the classic taco choices.
