Best tacos in town. Damn the fish taco is tasty the Birria pizza is an event. Give it try if you haven't.

This place came up on a collection to follow of best tacos in Orange County.. We are working our way through the entire collection.. this did not disappoint! Home made shells are a big draw for me. Tried a few things.. Carnitas taco was the winner with the green sauce they give you on the side.. The Carne Asada taco was a close second place and that is great on its own but if you add the red sauce they give you on the side it takes it to a new level. Fish taco came in 3rd place but not by much. Very good, lightly fried and crispy... better than most. Order the chips and salsa.. that is sooo worth it... They have fresh Iced Tea which is nice as most places just go the easy route with powdered tea from A soda machine.. this is much nicer than that. Parking in front or in back.. just be aware of signs and don't park in apartments behind restaurant. Highly recommended place to try. read more

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Downhill and so disappointing sums up this Sunday early dinner pre concert meal was so awful. 45 min wait for 3 tacos is wild - what's worse ? Raw fish taco - and the girl just shrugged it off. She then offered to remake but I didn't have another hour to spare. Also why isn't there any AC on when it's 90 degrees outside ? At the very least they could turn it on as we have to wait over an hour for food. They must prioritize to go orders bc everyone waiting was getting visibly bothered by how long the inside eating orders took. read more

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To be completely honest, the only thing that had any authenticity was the refried beans, and to that we had to add lime and salsa to give it some flavor. The pastor was pre-cut pork chunks that had an odd texture with canned pineapple chunks added in. For a place that touts fresh tortillas, why were the chips directly from a bag that looked and tasted like something from the dollar store? The corn tortillas from Trader Joe's had more authenticity than the yellow discs they have to offer for tacos. Northgate Mercado is right down the street, for goodness sake- work out a deal to buy fresh from them and serve that to your customers. I was so grossly disappointed with everything this place had to offer and that doesn't happen that often. I don't recommend and I don't see a world where I'll ever pay my hard earned money to dine at this place again. Easy fixes - this place just needs a little bit of "try". read more

I'm giving 2 stars because the food itself is actually pretty good. I really wanted to like Tacos Madre, which makes the overall experience even more disappointing. My first visit should've been a warning sign tbh.. I waited 40 minutes for 5 tacos. The complaints about this place are true: dine-in customers don't seem to be prioritized, parking is a hassle, and the food takes an extremely long time to come out. I decided to give them another chance today, and somehow the service was even worse. I only had one person ahead of me in line, yet they still managed to give my order to a large group behind me because another customer ordered similar items. When I brought it up, they couldn't even find my receipt and had to ask me all over again what I ordered. What bothered me most wasn't the mistake because mistakes happen. It was the complete lack of accountability or basic customer service. No apology, no explanation, no urgency. They just told me to sit back down and I waited another 10 minutes. When my food finally came out, the employee dropped it on the table and walked away without saying a word. Good food can only carry a place so far. The lack of communication, attentiveness, and simple human decency completely ruined the experience for me. read more

One of my two favorite Mexican spots in Orange County. I especially recommend the fish tacos and the quesadillas. There is a deal for every taco Tuesday, and even on other days, it's fairly good value. The vibe is casual and comfortable too; the service is a mix between self-service and full service. The staff was always really accommodating and kind to me. read more

Good place for Taco Tuesday! We came here for a coworker's birthday lunch and it happened to be Tuesday. Prices are good and food wasn't bad. I ordered a asada street taco and chicken hard shell taco, but they gave me chicken for both. I didn't want to make a fuss but it was a bummer because the asada was a bit more. Considering the prices were decent, I ate what I was served. Service was quick and attentive. read more

Tacos Madre - Salsa and chips - Mexican Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Enjoyed it a lot. I came for the fajitas and they were quite tasty. Comes with all 3 proteins (chicken, beef, shrimp) but you can have it with just one or 2 of those proteins. Served on a tray with rice and beans, 3 tortillas and 2 sauces. Order at the counter, get a number, and someone brings the food to your table. Not much parking in front or in back and it was very loud and busy inside. read more

Tacos Madre - Beans, rice, cheese - Mexican Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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I solid choice for go to tacos. Friendly staff, fresh ingredients. Street tacos and the hard shell chicken tacos are tasty.

Dang Taco's Madre is where it's at! The food was sooooooo good. Everyone there was so nice and the vibes inside were prime. I ordered the asada keto tacos and was nottt disappointed. The cheese shell was perfect with the meat and onions. My family all said they looooved their food too. 11/10! The only bummer is the parking. But Taco's Madre is 100/10! read more

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I can't believe I didn't stop here earlier. I had heard about this place from a lot of my friends and they said you've got to go and check it out. I'm so glad I had time today to do that because this is one place that is worth of the trip! Super neat and tidy on the inside. Warm and inviting three video screens display the menu. Plenty of options for you regardless if it's breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Great selection of beer and soft drinks to wash it down with. I got a brag on the chips and salsa for a minute, they were off with the chain. I don't know if the chips are made in-house, but they taste like they were. Has a kick to it. It sneaks up on you, so don't get overzealous dunking your chip. And make sure you have a beer or some water handy. I ordered a couple of street tacos as it was still early and I needed to go to lunch later. I did carnitas and Kearney asada. The tortillas were definitely handmade and whatever marinade they used on the carmy asada was freaking amazing! I usually judge a Mexican restaurant by their carnitas and this one past the test and flying colors. Super delicious, moist and flavorful made for the perfect Taco. The bottom line? If you like tacos like I like tacos. You got to check this place out! Located on harbor boulevard. You really can't miss the sign out front. read more

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Tacos Madre is LEGIT! Some of the most elevated casual Mexican food in Orange County. We've had the opportunity to visit a few times and they never disappoint! First off the ambiance of the place is really cool! They have some amazing artwork and images of cultural icons that looks super modern. It's also extremely clean and always well-maintained. You order at the register, get your table number, take a seat and they'll bring out your food. The menu is a little intimidating, at first, because they have such an expansive menu. At this point, our go-tos are: - Birria Quesataco - Fish Taco - Chilaquiles with red sauce - Side of Guac All of these items are 5/5. They make all of their own tortillas in-house and are amazing! Every order comes with complimentary fresh chips and salsa - chips made with homemade tortillas- TOP TIER! The fish tacos and chilaquiles are both some of the best we've ever had. The batter on the fish is crispy, full of flavor and a nice crema on top. The red sauce on the chilaquiles was epic! If you're in the area, I highly recommend Tacos Madre for an elite meal! read more

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This is our second time trying this place. The first time it was decent however, today it was a total miss. We ordered carne asada tacos & the meat was extremely dry no real flavor & the texture actually felt like it was a different cut of meat entirely passing it off as Carne Asada, trust me I know what carne asada meat taste like & the texture. My son got a carne asada burrito & was also disappointed he stated the burrito was not made right like he would take a bite & get all cilantro & onion or just rice. It was not assembled evenly I guess. We will not be returning read more

Stopped in while on a work trip. I had the vegetarian tacos which were tasty. The zucchini one was perfect. Enjoyed! The mushroom was good but maybe a little too much mushroom on one tacos. Or maybe needed a little Cole slaw to break it up, but that was just me. Flavor was good. Chips were decent. Salsa was pretty darn good. The tacos came with a green and red chili and the red chili didn't disappoint. I would come back. read more

Tacos Madre - Veggie tacos- 1 zucchini mix taco and 1 mushroom taco - Mexican Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Tacos Madre has some of the best fish tacos in Orange County. We also love their fried fish plate. They are always super friendly there, which is a plus! It can get really busy, and tables can fill up even on weekdays. The parking situation can be tough, but it's worth it! read more

Tacos Madre - Mojarra Frita - Mexican Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

I was craving carne asada fries and came here to check it out! The carne asada fries come with the larger crinkle cut fries but they're so crispy and the toppings were delicious. I also really liked the al pastor taco. Overall, great service, food and ambiance. read more

Tacos Madre - Mexican Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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great traditional meals! take your family& thereyleftovers! save some best independent tacos restaurant in area!!!

THE BEST TACOS IN ORANGE COUNTY!!! This is not an exaggeration., These guys make the absolute best tacos in all of Orange County. Whether you're looking at their fish tacos, shrimp, tacos, Carne Asada, street tacos you can't go wrong picking up two or three tacos for lunch. The only thing I hate about writing this review is that it's going to get super popular. read more

Food was delicious and served quickly. Plus friendly staff. One thing that is the ambiance is cute and homey. Def try their fish tacos for taco Tuesday they are a must! read more

Love the tacos here!! You can't go wrong here. Just be patient because there could be a wait to order, 1 register, and for the food to prepare. Always fresh and tasty. They do have taco tuesday specials as well which is nice. Just wish they could do something about their parking lot! Horrible parking situation when there's not spots available. SYOY read more

Tacos Madre - Queso tacos - Mexican Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Pretty limited parking so expect a bit of wait. Ordering is okay but the tacos do take a while to be made and there is no sauce/chip bar. Be sure to ask for water/napkins/limes/salsa when ordering. They do give a tomatillo and a spicier salsa (not too spicy, roasted, and buildable spice). Taco prices are okay, but doesn't have all the options ($2 normal, $4 fish taco for taco tuesday). They serve the tacos on a board and for the price a pretty good portion. The chorizo was okay, a bit dry and it would do well with some cheese. The tortillas are corn. Fish tacos had mostly cream flavor and was dressed well, pairs well with the lemon and big chunks. You should probably clean up after yourself because of limited staff. Overall, a little gentrified, but solid place for fish tacos and casual ambiance. Pretty self service. read more

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They don't have ac! I'm miserable. The food is good. The service is a little slow. It so hot I don't even want my food. Sorry I'll come back after summer. read more

Great spot for Mexican food. Everything we tried tasted really good. The servers were friendly and welcoming. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, making it an easy place to sit down and enjoy your meal. Definitely worth checking out if you're in the area. read more

Tacos Madre - carne asada fries - Mexican Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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We have been here several times now. The chips and salsa are great. My favorite is their fish tacos. The fish tacos are always consistent. I love their green salsa. My son enjoyed the asada taco on the handmade tortillas. Good beans and handmade tortillas. Beef taquitos were good and my husband enjoys the asada wet burrito. The kids quesadilla is ok. Yummy orchards! The ladies running the front are helpful. Plenty of seating. It fits our large family. Parking can be difficult at times. You can order online! read more

Tacos Madre - Fish tacos - Mexican Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Music playing in the background as you walk in to order. After ordering you seat yourself and wait for your food to be served. No hard liquor only beers available. Not a very big place but very busy and great service. read more

Amazing tacos. Great service. Nice seating with cool art on the walls. Parking out front can be difficult since it has only a few spots; try the spots in the back too. read more

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Been wanting to try this place for awhile! It was great! So many options from street tacos to larger tacos to everything else! Chips and salsa were primooooo! The reason why I am giving 4 stars out of 5 is because they do not have a 0.0 option for the Michelada's :( but!!! They did make me one with sparkling water which was actually very good! Will definitely be coming back! read more

A lovely ambiance! Stopped by for "brunch" after finishing the OC marathon as a treat! I had the veggie burrito with zucchini; it was a yummy and fulfilling! While my family and I enjoyed our time, I wish the vegetarian options varied a bit more :- ) Amicable host and waiter yay read more

Tacos Madre - Vegetarian burrito - Mexican Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Love the carnitas burrito wet. So delicious and flavorful . Highly recommend for delicious mexican food.

Only tried the handmade tortillas tacos so pls take this w/ a grain of salt. Loved how thick the handmade tortillas were, had a great bite to it and definitely enough to satiate an appetite that usually goes for 2 thin tortillas. I'd say the tacos are mid compared to other prestigious locations. The service however, is extremely friendly and accommodating. I can tell everyone there is hardworking and deserves proper acknowledgment! 5/5 for the staff :) Was simply lacking that "wow" factor flavor-wise and was hoping that the salsas would have their own unique taste. Parking is limited so be mindful of that during rush hour. I appreciate the generous portions though. The handmade tortilla tacos are big enough so go for it if you're hungry! read more

Tacos Madre - Asada on the left and Al Pastor on the right - Mexican Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

So good! This place is always quick and taste is on point! I'll be back asap! Wish there was one closer

I came here for the first time for a work lunch with a coworker and it was delicious, good prices and I would definitely come again. They had taco Tuesday and various special options as well. I got a fajitas plate that was delicious, large portions and great for leftovers. The service was good overall, it was just a bit hard to cut the meat with the plastic takeout utensils we were given to eat. Parking in the front fills up pretty quick, and the restaurant was busy (which I always take as a good sign). Clean tables and cute and simple decor. read more

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I came here with a friend for dinner as we both love enchiladas. I got it with both red and green sauce and my friend is a big fan of just green. Wow, these enchiladas are so delicious and fresh tasting. I had enough for a huge breakfast the next day that fueled me to a very long hike. If I can get two meals out of one, that's a great value! Excellent service. Indoor seating. Casual. On my repeat list! Please come and create your own experience. read more

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Food - A 5 ***** - my vegetarian burrito was exactly how I like it! I will be coming back for more. My fiancé's Cajun shrimp burrito however was a little underdone concerning the shrimp. Service - B 4**** very authentic friendly service. I just wish the sweet gal who took my order would be able to explain to me better if I was able order all vegetable options in my burrito or only one,,,two, etc? I couldn't really tell with the language barrier. Ambiance - B **** lively busy atmosphere at 7pm when we were taking our walk by. We came back two hours later and it was still pretty busy. It's because this place caters to all: from the keto lover, vegetarian or the one wanting to the real deal Mexican food! read more

Tacos Madre - Vegetarian burrito with mushroom and onion. Wet verde sauce. - Mexican Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

You can't not give this place 5 stars. If you gave it less than 5, you're the type of person who thinks they're above it all. Girl bye. Hush up and eat the fire Mexican food. The fish taco is one of the best fish tacos I've ever had in my life and it super cute inside. I thought north gate had my heart but just half a mile down it was stolen by Tacos Madre. As the terminator once said...I'll be back. Came back and tried to judge this place based on their torta and they came out on top once again. The rolled birria tacos were insane. I can always tell how good a Mexican or Asian place is by the customers. If there are Hispanic people walking into a Mexican restaurant and Asians walking into an Asian restaurant, I just know it's authentic. Come here and eat bc it tastes like la cocina de abuela aqui. Adios. read more

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Okay I was not expecting much from a recycled Taco Bell location but dang the Wet Steak Burrito was the bomb! We came here during Taco Tuesday $2.75. My wife hot the fish taco also very yummy especially with hand made tortillas. nice. Liked it so much we got steak tacos to go. Must try read more

good variety and options here. i'd recommend the birra, horchata, & street tacos. they have good taco tuesday deals & this place can get pretty packed. also super small parking lot! read more

Ordered three chicken handmade tacos and received 3 asada ones. I called to ask why they messed up and they go and lie and said that I gave them the green flag to make them of asada which is false and disgusting to lie to get there way. read more

Tacos Madre - Mexican Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

This is a tough review. The food good but the service was not the best. It was our first time there and we asked for recommendations and there were a few misunderstandings when the food came out. One dish had more than what we wanted and another was just wrong. The problem was that there was no attempt to fix the order. That said, the food does stand on its own just make sure you know what you're ordering. The chicken taquitos were the best I've had. The beef Birria tacos was so tender and delicious. The Keto taco on a cheese shell, very special but super greasy. Atmosphere was fine but parking in front might sometimes be an issue. My last critique is that I went there for a mole taco following a yelp event where I tried a sample and there was no mole. Perhaps I got the wrong restaurant but I don't think so. Anyway, again, the food was good but not the best overall experience. read more

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Good service, clean seating area, food was just average. Serving on a plank looks gourmet but the taste needs to match! Birria sliders- decent Horchata- good Carne asada tacos- dry read more