Great experience! We checked in with the host, she was very kind. Try their seasonal margarita, it is very tasty.. Quesadilla was delicious and comes with a side of guacamole Kellen was amazing, great service and hair..next time we hope to have him again NOTE: This is not a quiet restaurant..can get loud and seems to attract families as well. Bathroom can sometimes have a line. If you're looking for a quiet place to eat, this is definitely not it. Very fun vibe. Great to have margaritas. We ordered 2 pitchers! read more

Some friends and I were on a bike ride today and we were near Blue Plate tacos . It was Tuesday so we stopped in for some Tuesday tacos. They're not the bargain like other places, but I know the quality is usually good here. Tuesday tacos are five dollars each. That's fine. We asked for some chips and salsa and the waiter told us they were three dollars extra so I said that was fine. Please bring them. So they bring out this nice basket of chips which was Ok but it came with very little salsa. So I asked the person who brought the chips and salsa out , could you please bring a little bit more salsa. So he brings a 1 ounce silver cup of some additional salsa. Later, We asked for the bill. When they bring you the little handheld computer, it's very difficult to see the breakdown of what everything cost. I'll remind you that this large basket of chips with a little amount of salsa is three dollars for but for the same amount of salsa without anything else they charged us an additional four dollars , they say it's a 4 ounce side order of salsa on the bill I received afterwards . This is complete B S !! You're taking advantage of a situation and if I would've seen the receipt like you should've brought to the table originally I would have spoken up about it that you're taking advantage of your customers. The other thing I noticed was when he handed me the tablet the waiter personally puts the checkmark at 22% instead of 20% or let me figure it out which I think shows greed. The bottom line is try treating your customers like you would like to be treated and not taken advantage of! read more

It's been 8 years since I dined at Blue Plate Taco. The last time the food was very good. This time, the food left much to be desired. We went with another couple for lunch. We all ordered chicken bowls and fajitas. The chicken was badly overcooked and dry. The accompanying sides were mediocre. The staff was inattentive. Rather than the staff eating the restaurant's food for lunch, the owner/manager brought in a pizza, which the staff ate in full view of the restaurant patrons. We won't be back. read more

My coworker and I decided to visit the Santa Monica pier after our first day in California. This Mexican inspired restaurant was right across the pier. I'm not going to deny I was skeptical about it but they proved me wrong. The service was spectacular, the atmosphere was really pleasant and the food was amazing!!! My chicken tortillas soup was full of flavor and chicken! My coworker lobster tacos were fresh and delicious also the steak and the chicken tacos that my other coworker ordered. My Arnold Palmer made with lime agua fresca was refreshing and the Mexican colas was really different but on a good way! I will be visiting this place again! read more

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Came here with the family on a Saturday night. Were able to get a reservation at 6pm at the last minute. This was one of the best Mexican restauraunts I have been to in the U.S. The guacamole was incredibly, and the sizzling shrimp fajitas were plump and fresh. Really everything was good. The waitress was very friendly and the atmosphere was chill, great for kids. We sat outside and could see the water and crowds at Santa Monica. Prices were also reasonable and good value for the amount of food. read more

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Been here a few times and have loved my experience each time. The barbacoa tacos are great, and the standout dish is the queso..omg. I also have tried a couple different margaritas which are solid. The staff here are SO nice and friendly. The host was patient and helpful. Great spot for a quick dinner on the patio with some ocean views. read more

Blue Plate Taco - Queso, full order of guac, guava margarita with tajin rim - Tacos Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Writing on behalf of my brother, he came on a solo trip to Los Angeles. He tried this place out at Santa Monica, and he said everything was delicious, he had the birria tacos. Vibrant flavors ! read more

Blue Plate Taco - Tacos Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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Taco combo was flavorful, service was prompt & friendly, and the vibe had a lot of energy. Place was very busy on a Sunday at 2:30pm. So plan ahead read more

Food was delicious soda was cold views were amazing! Definitely pricey for the amount of food you get compared to other Mexican restaurants...Im not one to complain i took a star away i felt the waitress was annoyed working on valentines day she kept saying "give me a second" as i was explaining how i wanted my order. The gentleman who picked up our empty plates was kind and helpful the interaction with him was better than our waitress read more

Blue Plate Taco - Tacos Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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We had a variety of servers check in on us which was very helpful. Pleasant without over presence. We sat on the patio. A cute dog friendly spot as they even had a blue plate taco called the El Perrito for our puppy. I ordered the Red Snapper tacos with a side of black beans and Mexican slaw. My friend ordered the Barbacoa tacos that came with a delicious birria sauce. It's a good place to grab a snack or a whole meal and chill while on Ocean Ave read more

Blue Plate Taco - Red Snapper Tacos - Tacos Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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We had so much fun here!! After a nice time on the pier and Ferris Wheel we were ready to get away from the crowds so we ducked in here for a bite. I didn't want a full cocktail and we mentioned to our waitress Iselia that we'd share so she brought it in two glasses without us asking. My shrimp tacos were delicious as was the calamari fritto app. The guy I was there with got veggie tacos and loved them as much as I loved the shrimp tacos. Also the Paloma was light and tasty. Enjoyed the black beans and Mexican slaw!! I brought leftovers back home as well. O read more

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Swung by for a late lunch after exploring Santa Monica. Quickly sat in their outdoor patio area at a high table. Patio seating is a little crowded. We ordered some drinks - Aperol spritz and watermelon margarita - both tasty! For food we shared the calamari, steak tacos and fish tacos - big portion sizes and all fresh and delicious. Staff was attentive and friendly, good spot for people watching near the pier too! Parking wasn't too bad either, few paid public parking garages nearby. read more

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Stopped by for lunch recently -- this place isn't bad! I got the 3 taco combo with the red snapper, and I asked to do a combo of fried and grilled fish, which the server was able to accommodate. The fish was pretty good, and the fried version had a nice crisp. Overall, the tacos were a touch bland, and needed a hefty dose of the tableside salsa to add more flavor. The portion is pretty good for the price, with three tacos and two sides for ~$19 (depending on the protein you choose). And the chips and salsa on the table were delicious. If you need an easy spot for lunch near the Santa Monica Pier, Blue Plate is a good option! Not the best Mexican food by any stretch, but a pleasant spot with a large outdoor patio, good, friendly service and reasonable portions/prices for a fairly touristy area. read more

Blue Plate Taco - Red snapper taco combo - Tacos Near Me - Santa Monica, California

The right spot to enjoy the sun and the beach. In my opinion the HH is still pricey. I just had a draft beer because that day the white wine wasn't available and ceviche tostada which was delicious. The service was good read more

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This place was delicious. Great customer service and the food was brought out pretty quick. They are dog friendly on their patio section which is nice. The best part is the location if your spending a day near the beach! read more

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So so good! Great vibe, music, and staff. Food was delicious. We got the red snapper tacos and the carnitas. Both were so flavorful and the batter on the fish was perfect. My first drink was amazing , it was blood orange + jalapeño margarita. So good I got the margarita of the day which was basil+lime with mezcal.... I've never had a smoother mezcal margarita than this one. Everything was so fresh. My go to place in Santa Monica now! read more

Blue Plate Taco - Carnitas Taco and Baja Fish Taco - Tacos Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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Yummy spot for Mexican food! The tacos are so good and so are the drinks. The guacamole is also really good. It's in a nice location in Santa Monica so it's nice to take a walk afterwards and get in the ocean views. Lots to do nearby. There can be a bit of a wait because this place is popular so it's best to make a reservation if you can. read more

What a delightful restaurant near the beach in Santa Monica. Seating was quick on a Saturday night and they allowed our dog which was great. We sat on the patio so we could enjoy the beautiful weather. Our waiter was so friendly and checked in on us frequently. I ordered a blood orange jalapeño margarita and chicken burrito. The margarita was way spicier than I expected but still delicious. My chicken burrito was so fresh and delicious. I can't wait to come back! read more

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I was in TACO HEAVEN here last Thursday! Someone invited me to a party with all you can eat Beef, Chicken, and Fish Tacos. Nothing more dangerous than inviting David to an all you can eat party with great food. I definitely won the contest for the most Tacos consumed in 2 hours. The fish and chicken tacos are the best tacos you will ever have. Didn't care so much for the beef tacos. The staff here is so nice and works so hard--hardest working people I have ever seen in a restaurant. Parking is 1.5 hours free in the Santa Monica city lot on 2nd Street or Colorado or $10 flat on the same block as this restaurant. Come here for the Fish or Chicken Tacos--can't vouch for anything else. read more

We were looking for good Mexican food and found it at this ocean-front location. The staff was friendly and the prices were reasonable. However the service and ambience were a bit off. We were seated for 15 min and got no attention until we flagged down a waiter. When we placed the dinner order we asked for water but this was never delivered. The music was pretty loud and we were glad to leave after 45 min. read more

Nice outdoor seating area with view of Santa Monica. Service was great. The food isn't anything special, but it was good. Could definitely find something cheaper, but you pay for the location. read more

Blue Plate Taco - Tacos Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Blue Plate Taco was such a perfect find. The chicken tacos were incredibly fresh and flavorful, and the watermelon fresca was so refreshing--light and not too sweet. It's right across from the ocean, which made it the best spot to relax and people-watch. Definitely a place I'd go back to. read more

Blue Plate Taco - Chicken Taco - Tacos Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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Found this gem after a night on the town at the Santa Monica Pier. What a great location right next to the beach! We got hungry and this place was across the street. It was busy but we were lucky to get a table right away. They have a great bar with yummy margaritas and delicious Mexican food. There are vegetarian options. I went with the veggie tacos which had kale, roasted corn, chanterelles, leeks, cojita cheese and truffle oil. I love a gourmet taco and it pairs perfectly with drinks! Prices are reasonable considering you are across the street from the beach. It's a touristy venue. They also have a happy hour! We walked over from the pier but, according to their website, they have self parking at the Shore Hotel next door. read more

Was visiting LA and ended up at Blue Plate Taco with a few friends. Overall the place is good. Nothing stood out to me as amazing and nothing stood out to me as bad either. It was just good. It did look like they had some nice happy hour deals so I would definitely go back for those. If you're looking for a spot in the heart of Santa Monica with a fun atmosphere and decent food, this is the spot read more

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Nice views , great vibe , bland food . We ordered fajita and chips n guacamole... All equally bland read more

I've lived in the city for quite awhile and this was my first visit. The service was great and I love the ambiance and quiet inside. I ordered a margarita and chicken tacos and it was all excellent. read more

The service was prompt, and good. The view and atmosphere are both excellent at sunset. This is the best reason to go. The food is competent - not excellent. The prices are weighty for the quality. Somewhat expected for the location, but things like $4 refill for chips after dropping $16 for chips and guac almost feel punitive. All in all a good experience, for decent Mexican. But don't expect more than that. read more

we went to this restaurant on a friday night prior to checking out some other bars. it was fairly busy but they have a great outdoor patio with lots of seating. the service was a little bit slow but it was also busy. the overall vibe of the patio was good. there were heaters as well. the food was pretty good. the drinks were also decent. the margaritas were strong but tasty and i love that they had so much variety! the tacos were also good and the portions were big and worth the price read more

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Located near the Santa Monica Pier. The Blue Plate Taco has fresh reasonably priced Mexican cuisine. It's delicious and seasoned very well. The location is right near the water but not on the water. You'll have a street view but it's still a cute spot. Our food was out within 10 minutes after we ordered. It was hot, fresh, and delicious! It's worth it to sit outside. read more

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On March 27 we got curbed by Hilton Santa Monica for my daughter and son in laws rehearsal dinner they just forgot about. We called a blue plate on the fly and asked for a resy for 39! They said yes come on over. The food was delish. But the service was absolutely amazing. The drinks heaven. We had so much fun I could not imagine. I love this place. They are the most kind and friendly service oriented place in Santa Monica. And the fish tacos! Wow. I felt like I was in Cabo. Thank you Blue Plate team and the manager was the very very best. I can't wait to return. 5 star experience read more

Blue Plate Taco - Tacos Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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Food is really good here but can be a little pricey!! It's literally across the street from the Santa Monica Pier and a short walk away. I ordered the red chilaquiles with chicken which were good but I think the green ones are waaaaaay better! My gf ordered the carne asada tacos plate which came with rice, beans, and hand made tortillas and also very good! We also ordered the half order of guacamole which came with a very delicious salsa and pico de gallo with chips. They sat us outside on the side of the street and had a nice view to enjoy with our lunch. They do have a lot of seating available inside and outside. The food came out within 10 mins and waiters did a good job attending to us. This is definitely a good spot to try if you're looking for good Mexican food!! read more

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I'm having mixed feelings about this one. First of all you can't beat the location and ambiance, it was outside seating so it was beautiful! Across the street from the Santa Monica Pier. The service was okay. The restaurant was Mexican food but didn't have the traditional style of Mexico. I'm from Oxnard, CA, I should know! I was a little disappointed in the flavors and the prices were crazy. I had the 2 taco plate combo 1 Michilada, my partner had the 2 enchiladas a la carte and 1 margarita. No appetizer! $100 for dinner. No Bueno! read more

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I added ourselves to their waitlist and we were seated right away! We had a stroller with us and they were very accommodating. They put us at a table where we had enough room and would not be a hinder to anyone. Our waiter was kind and attentive. He got waters for us all and we decided to get a pitcher of the red sangria. It makes four glasses. He poured our glasses for us. We got the queso to start and it came out right away. It was delicious! They also added some pico de gallo and salsa on the side along with the chips. For my meal, I decided to make the red snapper tacos into a bowl! I also decided to do half rice and lettuce in my bowl! The bowl was huge and so filling! It was also very delicious! The food came out quickly and the outdoor seating was amazing! We decided to do another pitcher of the sangria and it was just as good as the first one! We will definitely be coming back to try more items on their menu! read more

Blue Plate Taco - Red Snapper Bowl - Tacos Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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Tasty quality Mexican food with an ocean view! They recently launched a brunch menu with very good options. That include a tasty breakfast quesadilla and breakfast tacos. read more

Blue Plate Taco - Breakfast quesadilla - Tacos Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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This place is delicious! We made reservations on our first night in Santa Monica because of the great reviews and proximity to our hotel. It did not disappoint! The location is great, with tons of outdoor seating. We basically watched the sunset from our dinner table. The server was wonderful! Attentive and speedy and checking in, but not hovering. We started with the queso fundito which was amazing and came with chips and a couple different salsas. I had the seasonal teriyaki portobello mushroom tacos for my main, with black beans and slaw. Everything was fantastic and fresh and flavorful! My husband enjoyed his lobster tacos, as well. Highly recommend if you're in the area! read more

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This review is for the lobster taco combo. I ordered it for take out and they were not good at all. Rice was dry and undercooked. You can't even taste the lobster at all. The sauce and cheese overwhelm it. I would definitely not order this again. Also, is you went slalsa; they will charge you $4 for it. My total was $39 plus the salsa. . Total rip off. read more

I've been wanting to try this place for awhile. I made reservation online for 2 and came around 4:30pm on a Friday and were seated right away. There was plenty of seating still too so I don't think you need a reservation that early. I ordered the guac and chips the half size which is more than enough for 2 people. It comes with 2 salsas but I didn't know that and added the salsa flight. Allllllllll their salsas are so good!!! For food we ordered the chicken tacos and the fish tacos. Both were really really good. They come with rice and beans but the rice and beans actually weren't good at all. The rice tasted rubbery and the beans had a weird flavor. For drinks I got a Jamaica which was a bit too sweet and my friend got a margarita which she really enjoyed. She said it was strong. Overall we had a good experience and I would definitely come back. Park in one the parking structures nearby and walk 5 minutes. You get 1.5 hours free that way. read more

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We only stopped in for drinks, but they were tasty and our server was friendly and attentive! I got the skinny margarita (plus soda water that the server stayed on top of refills with!) and it was delicious. We enjoyed sipping our bevs on the patio and taking in the busy buzz Santa Monica. read more

Blue Plate Taco - Skinny margarita - Tacos Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Fantastic experience on Thanksgiving! Great service and atmosphere. Food was delicious. read more

Restaurant is close to the SM Pier Arch where we snapped a few pics. Service was friendly and wonderful. We ordered the Prime Barbacoa Combo, shrimp combo and chicken quesadilla. Since tacos came in threes, and there were three of us, it was perfect! Everything was delicious! We had a nice peek of the sunset as we walked to our table. Nice decor and ambience. Street parking or in the structures. I'd recommend this place! read more

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