Best Taco Spots in Santa Barbara

Real videos of Taco Spots in Santa Barbara — 7 places, filmed by creators on the ground.

Ranked venues

Santo Mezcal
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$VibrantModernSocialTraditional flavorsCraft cocktailsStylish decor
About the venue
Santo Mezcal in Santa Barbara is a modern Mexican restaurant specializing in traditional flavors since 2020. The menu features classic dishes like mole enchiladas and street tacos with contemporary interpretations. Set in a stylish environment with vibrant decor, it attracts a young crowd looking for flavorful cuisine. The cocktail menu highlights unique mezcal and tequila creations that complement the dining experience.
What the videos show
The video starts with a close-up of a table with tortilla chips, various sauces, and drinks. It then pans across a restaurant, showing diners and a woman walking through the space. The camera focuses on plates of food including grilled meat, tacos, rice, beans, and fish, providing a glimpse of the dining experience.
119 State St
@kyliestravelguide
Carlitos Café y Cantina
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$VibrantFestiveCasualMargaritasOutdoor patioHappy hour
About the venue
Carlitos Cafe Y Cantina has been a cherished spot on State Street, Santa Barbara, since 1999. The restaurant features an extensive Mexican menu highlighted by traditional dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and house-made guacamole. The vibrant outdoor patio offers a casual dining experience, while its bar menu includes a notable selection of margaritas. Regulars enjoy the happy hour specials on weekdays that attract both locals and visitors.
What the videos show
The video showcases a plate of fish tacos with various toppings and two small bowls of salsa on a granite table. The camera pans across the table, highlighting the food and salsas.
1324 State St
@luv2rt
Flor De Maiz
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$CoastalVibrantColorfulOutdoor diningSeafood dishesFresh margaritas
About the venue
Flor De Maiz, located near the beach on Cabrillo Boulevard, offers a unique take on Mexican cuisine blended with local flavors since its opening. The menu features an array of enchiladas and seafood dishes, with a strong emphasis on fresh, coastal ingredients. The spacious patio is perfect for enjoying outdoor dining while taking in ocean views. Regulars appreciate the lively atmosphere and the signature margaritas made with fresh fruit. The combination of authentic recipes and picturesque setting draws both locals and tourists.
What the videos show
The video opens with a close-up of a plate containing various food items such as avocado slices, radish pieces, green onions, and cilantro leaves. It then pans across a table showing two tacos with orange sauce and greens, guacamole dip, corn salsa, and additional glasses of beverages. The camera continues to the far end of the table, revealing more dishes and condiments like hot sauce bottles. The video ends with a blurry shot of the table.
29 E Cabrillo Blvd
@what_jaffe_eats
@conniewhoooo
Padaro Beach Grill
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$$RelaxedScenicBeachsideLocally sourcedOcean viewsCasual dining
About the venue
Padaro Beach Grill, located on Santa Claus Lane in Toro Canyon, California, offers a relaxed beachside dining experience focusing on fresh, locally sourced seafood since 2018. The restaurant features an outdoor patio with ocean views, providing a serene atmosphere for diners. Menu highlights include their fish tacos and calamari, all prepared with an emphasis on quality and freshness. It attracts beachgoers and families wanting a casual, scenic meal.
What the videos show
The video showcases a close-up of two fish tacos topped with various ingredients like slaw, tomatoes, and sauce. A hand squeezes lime juice onto the tacos.
3765 Santa Claus Ln
@what_jaffe_eats
Corazon Cocina
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$FestiveColorfulCasualHouse-made salsasOutdoor seatingAuthentic tacos
About the venue
Corazon Cocina is a vibrant Mexican eatery located on W Victoria Street in Santa Barbara, known for its commitment to authentic flavors and fresh ingredients. The open-air restaurant features colorful decor and a lively ambiance, serving items such as tacos, enchiladas, and house-made salsas. Opened in 2021, its casual setting attracts a mix of local families and food enthusiasts. Customers particularly enjoy the outdoor seating and festive atmosphere, making it a popular gathering spot.
What the videos show
The video showcases three distinct tacos with various toppings, including meat, pineapple, avocado, and cilantro, placed on a metal table. The camera pans across the tacos, providing a close-up view of each.
38 W Victoria St Apt 122
@what_jaffe_eats
Shoreline Beach Cafe
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$$CasualBeachsideRelaxedOcean viewsSand seatingBeach rentals
About the venue
Shoreline Beach Cafe offers a beachfront dining experience along Shoreline Drive in Santa Barbara. Known for its casual atmosphere, this cafe features a menu with fresh seafood, burgers, and salads served with picturesque ocean views. Visitors can enjoy their meals while seated directly on the sand, creating a unique dining setting. The cafe also provides beach rentals and is popular among families and beachgoers.
What the videos show
The video starts with a close-up of two fish tacos on a white plate, accompanied by black beans, salsa, guacamole, and lime wedges. The camera then pans up to reveal two tall glasses of a red and white drink with a pineapple slice on top. It continues to pan across the table, showing a blue cup, salt and pepper shakers, and a smartphone. Finally, the camera pans to the right, revealing a beachside restaurant with people sitting at tables under blue umbrellas.
801 Shoreline Dr
Yona Redz
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$ArtisanalCozyIntimateWood-fired pizzaCurated wineFresh ingredients
About the venue
Yona Redz is a craft pizza and wine bar nestled on State Street in Santa Barbara. Opened in 2022, the venue combines artisanal pizza with a curated selection of wines. Guests often rave about the 'Margherita' pizza, praised for its fresh ingredients and wood-fired crust. The rustic interior creates a cozy ambiance, attracting a mix of couples and groups looking to enjoy an intimate dining experience.
What the videos show
The video showcases three crispy tacos filled with meat, cheese, and garnished with cilantro and onions, served on a plate alongside a bowl of red sauce with a spoon.
532 State St
@abdonmoraa