Mexican Restaurants

Tucked amid the beautifully landscaped grounds of Heisler Park just steps from the Pacific, the stunning location of Las Brisas in Laguna Beach is worth a trip in itself. Once you arrive, prepare to be swept away not only by the gorgeous ocean views, but by a romantic setting, gracious service, and an enticing menu of Mexican Riviara cuisine. Chef Aurelio Sanchez’s menu is a treasure trove of culinary history, with recipes culled from the 3,000 miles of Mexico’s west coast. Specialty dishes include feisty Camarones Tampiquenos, prawns sautéed in spicy chardonnay-garlic sauce, and Tostones de Tenera, veal medallions topped …

La Taquiza No. 2 on South Figueroa and West 30th Street, serves authentic Mexican cuisine just one block from the campus of the University of Southern California. La Tqquiza No. 2 delights students and neighborhood locals alike with its fresh, south of the border cuisine. The originator of the Mulita, which is like a combination taco and quesadilla, this tasty treat features two handmade corn tortillas with the diner’s choice of meat, melted jack cheese, and guacamole. The fresh salsa bar offers a wide range of sauces and accouterments, including avocado sauce, an orange sauce, as well as roasted garlic …

Veterans of the Los Angeles dining scene since 1981, Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger have garnered national acclaim and multimedia stardom with their modern approach to Mexican cooking. Throughout their ascension, the duo has managed to keep their Santa Monica flagship vital. A magnet for both tourists and locals, Border Grill showcases colorful murals and plentiful portions of equally vibrant Mexican cooking. With encyclopedic menus and daily specials, ordering can be daunting, but regardless of the selection, the dishes are consistently flavorful. The duo’s attention to detail lasts through dessert, with house-baked cakes and strong, spice-infused café de olla.

La Serenata celebrates fine Mexican cuisine and quality service. As a family affair that has lasted over 20 years, this popular eatery has expanded to three locations and continues to draw a loyal following. Jose Rodriguez is the visionary and chef, using his creativity and commitment to authenticity to construct flavorful and healthy dishes. The traditional and less nutritious use of lard has been substituted for olive oil in favorites like their fish tacos and salmon enchiladas. Rodriguez also prides himself for their unique mole sauce, which introduces a slightly sweet presence to the chicken specialty. The décor exerts simple …