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    Los Primos Cantina

    3.8 (72 reviews)
    Open • 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

    Los Primos Cantina Photos

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    LOS PRIMOS CANTINA ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Outdoor seating
    Dogs allowed

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    3 carne asada tacos
    K S.

    Strange- I came by 4:29 pm on a Saturday and someone came out from the kitchen and told me they are closed. Both the lit sign on the front window and posted hours in Yelp say they are Open. Would be nice for mgmt to post correct information.

    Huevos Rancheros Plate Breakfast
    Richard W.

    I like this small outfit because of its convenient location and authentic fare. They have a salsa and condiment bar which includes cucumber slices, radishes, limes-a-plenty, peppers and five types of salsa. The only notable omission are chips. The menu has a lot of breakfast options and your standard taco/burrito combo choices. There's also a separate breakfast menu on the right from where I ordered the huevos rancheros plate. There's some nice touches like green chile bits and super fresh tortillas but ultimately the dish was too watery. Rice and beans on the side. There's also no sour cream or guacamole. Service is friendly and orders are prompt. That's all.

    Sissy Z.

    I've been coming here for lunch for a few months now. So sad to write this review! I came in and got 2 wet burritos. I asked for onion and cilantro and both didn't have it. I asked for beans on mine and they didn't put it. $37 for salty burritos. I won't be back. :(

    Plenty of comfortable seats and a huge LCD screen TV.
    Stromboli15 ..

    I had to come try this Los Primos Cantina on the corner of Bristol and Red Hill because I have been a customer of the other location on Irvine Blvd and 17th Street in Costa Mesa for the last 30 plus years!! I know that sounds crazy. Would you be a customer THAT long if it wasn't good?!? Yeah, it IS THAT GOOD!! I have friends that still come to Los Primos Cantina whenever they come back to visit the area and it's always one of those places that you habitually visit to get the memories of your teenage years. My love affair started for me way back in the late 80's!! My friends and I knew about this place because it was so delicious, and authentic, and one of the best bargain places that you could eat and get a great meal. I'm very happy to report that it still is one of those places. Today I got my "usual" the bean and cheese burrito with onions and cilantro, both red and green sauce "Christmas style". It was AMAZING as it always has been and always will be. This particular location is on the corner behind the ARCO/AMPM station in the connected strip mall. There's other restaurants in this location as well but I came for the Los Primos Cantina specifically. I could see how much this place is kinda a favorite for working people in the area. They do have a very relaxed atmosphere inside with comfortable seats and a huge LCD TV. If I wanted to get away from my job and have a peaceful lunch this would certainly be my "go to" happy place. There's also some seating outside too if that's your jam. Just be aware that when you park it's close to the station and the flow of their customers. Be aware of that. I have had many of their dishes over my 30 years, carnitas, shredded crispy beef, tacos, salads, etc. I have NEVER had a meal that I didn't like. Their portions are very generous and many times I have split my meal and saved half for later. Los Primos Cantina has what you need they're an "institution" in Costa Mesa/Irvine area. Many other similar restaurants have come and gone but Los Primos Cantina is still here standing tall, feeding folks and putting smiles on faces of those people constantly!! If you're new to the area, maybe flying in from John Wayne Airport or just on your way to the beach, this is the spot for your Mexican food addiction. I HIGHLY recommend it.

    Jim S.

    I came here for my first time with a friend who kept telling me it was very good. It's in a small center next to a gas station and very small and low key. It was full of locals and the prices were good. It's very casual and I had a breakfast burrito and it was very good. I would recommend this place for authentic Mexican food.

    Avocado Pit in Gringo Breakfast Burritos!!
    Paul F.

    Food was good as it normally is but if I hadn't looked in my burrito I could've cracked a tooth. How do you manage to not see a whole avocado pit? Kinda ridiculous

    Need a map? You're covered.
    Toby W.

    I like Mexican food. I'm not going to say I'm an expert or anything. (ok, I'm an expert) It's hidden behind a gas station. You might think you're heading the wrong way, but you're not. My first time here, I had the Tacos Al Pastor (a pretty regular go-to for me). They were as good (maybe better) than my favorite place. (5 out of 5) My second time, Chilaquiles, Red Sauce, scrambled eggs. Perfectly seasoned, crunchy and soft in just the right amount. I had to tell the guy at the register (didn't catch his name) that they were easily in the top five chilaquiles that I've ever had (and I've had a lot (A LOT), because I'm an expert (didn't you see that up top?). He was happy to hear it, but honestly, no one was more surprised than I. They have a big menu. Definitely gonna be back.

    a television mounted above a table

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    10 months ago

    Great tasting food at a great value! One of my favorite Mexican spots overall. Highly recommend.

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    Page 1 of 2

    Ask the Community - Los Primos Cantina

    Is this the same Los Primos that was once open in Huntington Beach off Adams?

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    Playa Mesa - Plato del Patron. Roasted Jidori chicken, confit spare ribs, cesina, chile toreados, pico de gallo, ceboilltas, papas bravas & refried beans

    Playa Mesa

    4.4(3.5k reviews)
    3.0 mi
    •$$

    Late review but I felt like I should leave this here just in case people are wondering cause if…read morethey closed down cause of the food quality. -- Came back to Playa Mesa for my friend's birthday. The chips and salsa were really good. The aguachile had a nice spicy flavor that made it stand out. The queso fundido was SO good super cheesy, and paired with the handmade tortillas it was one of my favorites. We also ordered the calamari and I was surprised by how good it was. Everyone ordered different rounds of cocktails throughout the night and honestly, not one missed. Service was a little slow, but it was a busy Friday night, so that's somewhat expected. I've been here before and the grilled octopus tacos and carne asada burrito were just as good as I remembered them. They also made the birthday celebration really cute. They sang happy birthday, brought out a small ice cream, and gave my friend a big mariachi hat. Good food, great drinks, and still consistent as I remembered it. So long Playa Mesa. 9.5/10

    Playa Mesa has a great atmosphere with beautiful aesthetics. In the evening, the open windows…read morecreate a nice breeze, though they do let a few flies in. The hostess was friendly, and our server was funny and kind. He was a little less attentive as it got busier, but the staff worked well as a team, so we never had to wait for refills or anything we needed. Parking in the back can be a little tight. The birria tacos were packed with flavor, and I loved the inside-out cheese crust. My husband's fajitas were flavorful, although the chicken was a little overdone. The guacamole was excellent, especially with the pepita seeds adding great texture. Overall, we enjoyed the flavorful food, service, and atmosphere. We'd definitely come back!

    Photos
    Playa Mesa - East Side Sunset

    East Side Sunset

    Playa Mesa - The eastside cocktail - all the drinks here are delish!

    The eastside cocktail - all the drinks here are delish!

    Playa Mesa - Lovely interior...

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    Lovely interior...

    Mercado Gonzalez - Carne Asada Burrito and Tortilla Chips

    Mercado Gonzalez

    4.3(1.1k reviews)
    2.2 mi
    •$$

    If you haven't been here, you are missing out on life! Who would have thought going to a market…read morewould be an incredibly fun experience? Everything is clean, beautifully organized, colorful, and incredibly fun. It's almost like Disneyland of Mexican markets! We loved sampling the tacos and exploring all the different food stalls. We picked up a whole roasted chicken with warm tortillas, salsa, and beans, which made the perfect family meal. Easy, delicious, and no one had to cook. That alone deserves applause. The entire market feels like a fiesta. There is vibrant fresh produce, option of authentic food in different stalls, and churros served hot from the fryer. We also grabbed some carne asada to grill at home to keep the party going! And then there is pretty impressive collection of tequila for the tequila lovers! Mercado González is more than a market. It is a full experience for the whole family, and we will absolutely be back. Come hungry and give yourself plenty of time to explore. Salud!

    I'll be taking a very extended break from You Mercado after today, because today was my breaking…read morepoint. I've been shopping at this location for about a year and have been a customer of Northgate Markets for several years. Unfortunately, my experiences at this location have become increasingly disappointing. I've encountered raw chicken left on the shelf two or more days past its expiration date, fresh fruit and salsa still being sold after their use-by dates, and produce that was visibly rotten and infested with bugs. These aren't minor issues when it comes to a grocery store--they're basic food-safety and quality concerns. And then there's the customer service. Today, there wasn't a friendly employee in sight, and the customers weren't much better. I'd especially like to thank the grumpy woman on the scooter who apparently tried to run me down three separate times. I assume you were having a bad day, but judging by the atmosphere in this store, it seems like everyone is having a bad day, every day. No one smiles. No one acknowledges customers. No one seems remotely interested in providing even basic courtesy. I understand that people have bad days--I really do--but when the entire experience consistently feels cold, hostile, and unwelcoming, it becomes a pattern rather than an isolated bad day. The cashier couldn't be bothered to say hello back or even make the slightest attempt at being friendly, and the young man bagging my groceries was just as dismissive. I've spent years shopping with Northgate Markets, which makes this especially disappointing. Customers shouldn't walk into a store and feel like they're an inconvenience for simply being there. Today was the final straw for me. There are plenty of other places willing to take my money while treating me--and other customers--with basic courtesy and respect.

    Photos
    Mercado Gonzalez - Great packaged foods, snacks and Mexican candy.

    Great packaged foods, snacks and Mexican candy.

    Mercado Gonzalez - Time to eat churros

    Time to eat churros

    Mercado Gonzalez - Menu As of 6/8/25

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    Menu As of 6/8/25

    Caló Kitchen + Tequila

    Caló Kitchen + Tequila

    4.5(1.5k reviews)
    1.7 mi
    •$$$

    Came here with a friend before going to watch Beauty & The Beast The Musical. Came at 5:00pm and…read moregot seated immediately. Shoutout to Laura who was the sweetest, most attentive server! I waited for my friend to come and in the meantime, brought chips, salsa, and black beans to start. The chips were hot and fresh and the salsa was the perfect amount of spicy. Beans were warm and coated the chip well. I asked if they can make mocktails and she said anything on the menu! The Strawberry Jalapeno was delicious, but I do wish there was more spice from the jalapeno. My friend wanted a Coke and Laura said they had no more so she was so bummed. Later, Laura came running and grinning and found the LAST Coke bottle in the back and brought it out! Such a funny and cute moment! The Tres Enchiladas de Mariscos were SO yummy. Each one with a different taste, sauce, sea food. My favorites were the shrimp, lobster, crab in that order. The rice was perfectly hot and fluffy and complimented the dish. Then, my friend and I shared the flan, which is truly a sharing portion. It was so RICH and thick and was the best dessert to top off the evening. Thank you, Calo and your amazing staff!

    This restaurant is not only Beautiful but the food is Wonderful and the Service is Impeccable…read more The only negative is... Automatically adding pork to the refried beans! Pork is not considered clean in various dietary laws. With that said... I will be back

    Photos
    Caló Kitchen + Tequila
    Caló Kitchen + Tequila
    Caló Kitchen + Tequila

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    Acapulco Restaurant & Cantina

    Acapulco Restaurant & Cantina

    4.4(2.2k reviews)
    0.3 mi
    •$$

    LOVE this place for GREAT, FRESH, Coastal, Mexican food!…read moreThis location in Costa Mesa in particular, has been updated (new paint, new chairs, new lighting, etc.) and they have updated their menu with even MORE, Seafood items! They make GREAT Guacamole, customized at table side to your specs and their FRESH Chips, Tortillas and Salsa's are homemade in the restaurant. Husband LOVES their Pomegranate Margherita's and I can't get enough of their Enchilada's (Cheese, Chicken) and their Crunchy Taco's (Shredded Beef is my Fave!). Add in that their FRESH, Side Salads are AMAZING along with their new menu items - including Seafood combo's and there is no where else to go in OC for better Mexican food! Our INCREDIBLE Server, Hector (He IS the Acapulco restaurant - always upbeat and advising us about their new menu items!) and their FANTASTIC Chef Hector and all of the other Servers and Cooks there, make this a casual, yet special date-night restaurant! P.S. We've also tried their EXCEPTIONAL, Sunday Buffet and literally had to almost be wheeled out of there, there were SO MANY DIFFERENT, AUTHENTIC foods to choose from and sample! VERY nice to find this level of a PERFECT MEXICAN restaurant - with HIGH QUALITY FOOD INGREDIENTS, nearby! Can't wait to go back!

    This was my first time at Acapulco as I had a fajita craving that needed to be satisfied. And it…read morewas! My server was very friendly and brought me chips and salsa about 5 minutes after I sat down. The salsa was really good by the way. I was able to place my order right away as I already knew I wanted the steak and chicken fajitas. The steak had a yummy char on it, and the chicken was moist. They provided a good amount of "fixings." I'm partial to fajitas in Texas. but besides that, I really enjoyed this spot and can't wait to come back to try more of their menu!

    Photos
    Acapulco Restaurant & Cantina
    Acapulco Restaurant & Cantina
    Acapulco Restaurant & Cantina - Make your own omelette. Veggies and chorizo.

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    Make your own omelette. Veggies and chorizo.

    Palmilla Cocina y Tequila - Lobster  Tacos

    Palmilla Cocina y Tequila

    4.4(1.1k reviews)
    4.5 mi
    •$$$

    Dare I say I prefer this place over Javier's??…read more Okay okay I came here on a whim with a girlfriend and Palmilla fully exceeded our expectations. We did not have a reservation but we were able to sit at the bar, and eventually we moved to the center communal table. Honestly, I would prefer to sit there than at a private table! You are so in the mix of the whole restaurant, great place to be social. To drink I had a skinny margarita with raspberries added and my friend had the orangutan (espresso martini). My drink was SO good and SO cute. I am being serious when I say after I ordered it, the entire communal table got it too. I love that instead of chips and salsa they bring you fresh, hot tortillas with salsas and HONEY BUTTER?? to dip them in. This was so yummy and definitely unique to Palmilla. We ordered the guacamole, combo plate with a cheese enchiladas and crispy beef taco, and the filet mignon tacos. The only thing I might skip is the guac but thats just knit picking because everything else was so good. The ambiance of this place is beautiful. Think boujee beach bar in Tulum with a natural pallet and foliage. Every member of staff we met was also a 10/10! I'll be back!

    10/10 Most…read moreimportantly: Oliver @ the bar made this is most memorable experience. All of the cocktails and margs we had were delicious! The hand made tortillas with salsas was such a great and unique choice! Someone finally realized that as delicious as they are, eating that many fried tortillas in one setting can't be good ...Oh! And that honey butter. Divine. Fruit margs, spicy margs, every single one of them is PERFECTION. Make sure you upgrade to Ocho blanco (trust me it will save you a hangover)... Shared the carne plate with chimichurri with asparagus and spanish rice...so flavorful and delicious. Large portion and perfectly cooked. Seabass ceviche was spot on and the plantains were next level. Music, ambience, people and vibes were just POSITIVE. New favorite Newport spot...I mean seriously, what other place has a motorized ceiling that opens at sunset hour? Take my money.

    Photos
    Palmilla Cocina y Tequila - Bar and dining room

    Bar and dining room

    Palmilla Cocina y Tequila - Ceviche Tres Maneras

    Ceviche Tres Maneras

    Palmilla Cocina y Tequila - Inside decor

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    Inside decor

    Los Primos Cantina - mexican - Updated October 2026

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