I checked out this place while visiting Santa Monica Beach after a friend recommended it! Since my friend is a big foodie, I had high expectations! The salad in the first photo had an amazing Southeast Asian twist, and I absolutely loved it! Definitely coming back! read more

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I've been coming to Blue Plate Taco for years, and that's what makes this review a little disappointing to write. I remember coming here and genuinely enjoying the food, especially their filet mignon tacos. Those tacos were fire--full of flavor and one of the things that made this spot stand out to me. At some point, the menu changed, and unfortunately, I don't think the food has been the same since. The tacos I had on my most recent visit just didn't have the same flavor or impact that I remember. It's not that everything was terrible, but when you've been somewhere before and remember how good it used to be, the difference is noticeable. What once felt like a place I would happily recommend now feels much more average. Honestly, based on my most recent experience, you might be better off finding a good taco truck if your priority is flavorful tacos. That's a tough thing for me to say because I genuinely enjoyed Blue Plate Taco in the past. The one thing that absolutely hasn't changed is the location. Being right across from the Santa Monica Pier is a huge plus. You can see the beach from your seat, and the atmosphere and setting make it a great place to sit, relax, and enjoy the Santa Monica scenery. If you're looking for a restaurant with a great location and a beachside experience, it definitely has that going for it. For me, though, the food is the deciding factor, and unfortunately, this visit didn't live up to what I remember. I really hope they consider bringing back some of the flavor and creativity that made the menu special in the first place--especially those filet mignon tacos. I'm always happy to give restaurants credit when they deliver, but I also think it's important to be honest when something has changed. I used to recommend Blue Plate Taco, but based on my most recent experience, it's no longer a place I would go out of my way to recommend for the food. read more

Located across the beach and famous Santa Monica pier We ate outside due to size of group and they still have their Covid on the street hut lol but hey it works so you get a view and fresh air Service was good and friendly It's always harder with a big group but they did well They food was good but was it like hitting me like wow no but it's good nonetheless They do put good amount of meats in their tacos But I will say the flan was bomb!! Like omg yes that was delicious thick creamy and the drinks were good too. read more

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I ended up coming here as I had wanted to return to Red O Mexican which used to be several doors down from BPT. Meh" can best describe the 3 carne asada taco entree. Beans and rice were pretty much tasteless. Towards the end of my meal I noticed in small print on the menu that they have complimentary chips and salsa. Why would I have to ask for this if it is complimentary? Mexican restaurants just provide this after one sits down at the table or the server will ask if you want them. Other than that, service by my server, Felipe G. however was great as he definitely exhibited good guest skill interaction. It's a shame the Red O is closed as I had the same combination there last year and it was way better than BPT. read more

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

Came here with my family to grab a quick bite and we ended up loving this place ! The hostess was so nice and so was the server (Kelly) I believe that was his name. The food was also really good ! I just wish they had more side options and bigger portions for the prices but other than that it was very enjoyable. I also loved how they had the flags from other countries hanging (because of the World Cup) and tv's for people to watch sports . Loved the place ! It was a very nice vibe and ambience. read more

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Back at Blue Plate Taco...AMAZING! We ordered the Speciality shrimp tacos.. very interesting. Never had shrimp tacos with a sweet salsa before. It was delicious. Although I wish there was more shrimp. The sunset views were spectacular. You just have to come during sunset!! We were lucky to have Kellen once again this visit. Incredible service. We always hope he's there when we visit. Thank you read more

Blue Plate Taco - Views from the restaurant - Tacos Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Phone did not eat first today because the nachos were THAT good. Seriously, some of the best nachos I've ever had! They were incredibly filling and loaded with fresh veggies, and unlike most places, there were enough toppings for every single chip. We added chicken for some extra protein, and it was the perfect addition. We also ordered three tacos à la carte (not pictured because we dug right in). The nachos were so substantial that we were already full, but we still had to try the tacos. Even just one bite of each was enough to know they were absolutely delicious and packed with flavor. If you're looking for a quick bite near the Santa Monica Pier, I highly recommend this spot. We sat on the patio, enjoyed the great music, and soaked up the sunny-day vibes. Great food, great atmosphere, and definitely a place we'll be back to! read more

Blue Plate Taco - Farmers Nachos 10/10!! - Tacos Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Nicely situated taco spot close to the pier, the taco plate is very filling! Service was fast despite having a busy day during the World Cup. I had their hibiscus margarita, which was so refreshing on a hot summer day. They also participate in dine la and usually have pretty good deals. Definitely worth the visit if you're going to have a beach day or around the area! read more

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Blue Plate Taco is hands-down one of my favorite spots in Santa Monica. The taco combos are the perfect way to sample their menu, and every protein we tried was outstanding. The barbacoa was rich and tender, the steak was perfectly seasoned, the chicken was fresh and flavorful, the pork carnitas were melt-in-your-mouth delicious, and the shrimp tacos had an amazing balance of texture and flavor. Each combo comes with sides, making it a surprisingly satisfying meal. What really elevated the experience was the salsa flights!!! We had a blast comparing the different house-made salsas, each bringing its own unique level of heat and flavor. Paired with fresh chips and ocean views, it was the perfect starter before diving into the tacos. The service was friendly, the atmosphere was lively yet relaxed, and the location near the beach can't be beat. If you're looking for authentic, creative tacos and a fun dining experience in Santa Monica, Blue Plate Taco deserves every bit of a 5-star review. read more

Blue Plate Taco - Salsa Flight Chips and Salsa - Tacos Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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So good!! We loved coming here. The food and service were both great and they have a beautiful patio which is so nice this time of year. The salsa trio was nice because you get to choose which 3 salsas you want to try and I like to try everything. We split the Barbacoa tacos and they were delicious! The rice and beans weren't my favorite, definitely could've had more flavor especially compared to the rest of the meal and the rice was a little crunchy for my taste. But overall, great spot! read more

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

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Lobster tacos were delicious!!! Very Noisey Service was okay but way too loud for a first date 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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Went here yesterday for dinner for the first time and honestly the food was horrible. I wanted cheese enchiladas but the waitress said it came "pre made" (it comes with chicken inside) which I said okay I'll get it anyways. When I received my food and tried it, it tasted like something they bought at Costco and just made the plate look nice. I will never back here again. Especially for the price, very disappointing. read more

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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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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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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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

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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The food was good, but unfortunately the service was not. I asked the waitress what she recommended that wasn't fried or didn't contain meat, and she told me everything was fried. After looking at the menu myself, I found there were actually plenty of options. I ordered a quesadilla, and it was excellent. I also ordered a cocktail that tasted good, but I couldn't taste any alcohol in it. The manager came over, and when I mentioned it, his response was, "I can make you another one, but it would be the same." There was no effort to make things right or ensure I was happy with my experience. Good food can only go so far when the service and management don't seem to care about customer satisfaction. Unfortunately, they've lost a couple of good customers. read more

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 food was amazing came for a first date went off without a problem the food was amazing shrimp tacos were great and they had a happy hour which was also great the chips are fresh and the guacamole was delicious. read more

Blue Plate Taco - Guacamole and chips - Tacos Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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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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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

Amazing service even on a busy Saturday afternoon. The margaritas are a perfect was to cool down after a day by the beach. The barbacoa were delicious read more

Blue Plate Taco - Rocks margarita with tahini rim & barbacoa tacos - Tacos Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Blue Plate in Santa Monica is great - and Kellen, our service, was wonderful! Super kind, helpful and made sure we were comfortable (we were in the sun and needed to move into the shade so he helped us with finding a new table). He checked in on us and made sure we were taken care of - tacos are great and a cool beach vibe. Great way to spend a lunch with friends on the weekend. read more

Chef Ludben is literally a gem! Montana Walk was a blast cause of his incredible team and amazing vibes! Can't wait to FINALLY visit the restaurant! read more

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

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

Vibe and service was good. Food was very mid. So many places to go in that area not sure will go back in the near future

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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Jenny, No I'm not saying I paid twice. Anzhelika brought our table the bill and we handed her cash. Before she walked away, we asked her for a receipt. A couple minutes later she sent another server over to our table. She handed us another bill and said "Can I help you?" We let her know we already paid and asked for the manager. His name was Luis and he gave us the number to the general manager named Walter so that we can call. We tried to call and have been hung up on and have not had a return phone call. read more

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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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

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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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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