T’S FOOD ROUND-UP: Mexican Go-To’s in Santa Barbara
Luckily, I live in southern California where Mexican food is aplenty. Next time you’re in Santa Barbara here are the best spots to get your fix.
AZUL
LOCATION
7 E ANAPAMU STREET, SANTA BARBARA
the dl
Upscale (but not overpriced) Mexican restaurant by chef Manny and his wife Vero. Manny is from Durango Mexico and he brings a level of sophistication to the classics that cannot be matched. They bring chips and salsa with a warm side of refried black beans to start, yes please!
MENU FAVES
for appetizers: the tuna tartar tostada, carnitas taquitos, mejillones and guacamole.
For mains: the carnitas de la casa, duck con mole (hazelnut mole), chamorro de puerco en chile verde and risotto de huerto. But you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.
CORAZON
LOCATION
38 W VICTORIA #122, SANTA BARBARA (INSIDE PUBLIC MARKET)
the dl
Corazon is the spot for tacos, ceviches and burritos. The menu is adventurous, and the quality is always on point.
MENU FAVES
norteno taco, el cali burrito, sal de mar and sayulita ceviche, cauliflower taco, mercado quesadilla and market salad. My favorite thing about this place is their de la olla beans!
PEPE’S
LOCATION
254 ORANGE AVENUE, GOLETA
the dl
Oh yes, Pepe’s, you can never go wrong with Pepe’s! Think classic filthy Mexican food
MENU FAVES
Nowhere else can you get the perfect cheese or shredded beef enchiladas and bean tostada! The best comfort food.
MONY’S TACOS
LOCATION
217 ANACAPA ST, SANTA BARBARA
the dl
Santa Barbara staple for tacos and burritos. Their carnitas and beans are to die for.
MENU FAVES
My go to orders are: carnitas tacos, carnitas burrito no onion no rice extra lettuce and the carnitas bowl no onion extra lettuce! Their grandma makes all the salsas and they are divine. Probably the best salsa in SB. Get the peanut, avocado and pistachio salsas.
MAIZ PICANTE
LOCATON
2714 DE LA VINA ST, SANTA BARBARA
THE DL
This little spot on De la Vina is a hidden gem. It is always fresh and delicious. Love this spot for a quick lunch.
MENU FAVES
The enchiladas are smothered in a creamy tomatillo sauce that is incredible, of course I got them with carnitas. They also have a crispy carnitas taco with potato and refried beans that is so good!
LITTLE HEART CAFECITO
LOCATION
38 W VICTORIA ST #121, SANTA BARBARA (INSIDE PUBLIC MARKET)
THE DL
Sister to Corazon this is the spot for breakfast burritos and breakfast tacos.
MENU FAVES
The gracias madre breakfast burrito is my go-to and if I’m getting tacos, it's the tejano or ranchero (filled with eggs, bacon, skirt steak and beans. drool!). They also serve amazing coffee and have fun Mexican inspired drinks.
