I'm rating this restaurant a 5 because my three family members thoroughly enjoyed their dinner. HOWEVER, I couldn't eat anything, because I have celiac disease. Gluten-free friends: DO NOT believe the reviews that say Xclusive Taqueria has gluten-free options. That may have been true in the past, but tonight the chef said absolutely nothing is GF except for the salads. (And if nothing is GF besides the salads, I personally don't believe the salads would be safe enough from cross-contamination for someone with celiac--although you may feel differently, of course.) read more

After having gone to the restaurant a few times and to their food truck, I won't be back to either. This restaurant does not take dietary requests seriously, which creates a hazardous environment for customers with allergies or severe food sensitivity. In the most recent incident, I ordered a chicken burrito at the food truck with no cheese because of a dairy allergy. The request was very clear and they even repeated it back. Imagine my surprise when I got home to find a burrito full of cheese. When we returned to explain and get the order remade, there was no apology or sympathy - in fact, we were made to feel like the inconvenience! They literally opened up each burrito to check for cheese as if we were lying. It was made clear that this was an allergy, and in no world would I drive all the way back to get an order corrected if there wasn't actually an issue. Luckily I was ok in this instance, but it's this kind of negligence that can send people to the hospital. Will not order anything here again. read more

Xclusive Taqueria Moderna - avocado peel on the Burrito - Mexican Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

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I really wanted to look this place. The service end bar drinks are great. My issue was the food. The salsa was not spicy at all and it tasted like Pace supermarket salsa. If you like mild food this place is definitely for you. There food also under-salted. We had to ask for a salt shaker to season our food. We had leftovers and I didn't take them home. I may try again it again. Maybe next time it'll be better. read more

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Xclusive is the perfect and very fitting name of this Xquisite restaurant with Xtraordinary food and Xcellent service. My friend friend Nelly and I had not eaten dinner and she picked this gem. We got to the restaurant 12 minutes before the closing time of 9 pm and were welcomed warmly by the owner Idela who asked us to sit anywhere. We chose the beautiful enclosed outside patio where another Xceptional and very cool and spunky server Gabby greeted us with menus and waters. We ordered a lot of food. Eyes definitely bigger than our tummies. Actually the portions were very generous. Guacamole- so fresh and bursting with flavor. Loved the accompanying limes. The seabass tacos were to die for. Lots of beautiful and quality fish pieces and put together really well with gorgeous ingredients. The same for our charred cauliflower tacos. I tasted the vegetable salad and it was fantastic. Just enough dressing and seasoning. The initial welcome warm chips and the frijoles plus salsa were amazing. I loved the beans. Black beans on the taco platter were so tasty. I was super Xcited about the meal as I saw Gabby walking up to us with the huge serving plates. She was stellar. She checked up on us often and got us refills, Xtra limes, plates and spoons. We left with smiles, happy bellies and boxes for Thursday lunch plus a beautiful invitation to the live band performing on Fridays from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm. I loved that they were so welcoming, patient and let us enjoy our meal despite the time. The music playing in the patio was very nice. Be back in about 38 hours for another fun, delicious and memorable Xperience. read more

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Good service and decent taco Tuesday deals! My husband got the asada fries ($9), we both thought these were a bit flat- wouldn't order them again but I got the taco sampler ($9 with chorizo, al pastor, and carne asada and these were great! The tortillas were obviously homemade, they were very thick and fresh. The carne asada I actually didn't like much, I found it to be a bit bland and gamey, it didn't have a great texture either, but the al pastor and chorizo were both very good. I got a skinny margarita and my husband got the house margarita ($9 for TT) and those were also very good! I'd come back for the tacos and margaritas for sure. They give you chips & salsa- the salsas are homemade and really good! Loved the bean dip. My son got a kids chicken taco & fruit- the fruit was just melon so probably wouldn't order that side again. The chicken was good, a bit salty if you're giving it to a baby but par for the course at a Mexican restaurant I think. We sat outside, it's cute and the inside also looked nice! read more

Xclusive Taqueria Moderna - Taco Sampler (chorizo, al pastor, carne asada) - Mexican Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

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Running errands with my dog and stumbled on this taqueria. Had all the things I look for in a Mexican restaurant: vegetarian options that are still authentic, dog friendly patio, and delicious margaritas. Service was quick and friendly - I had Abel and another waitress whose name I didn't catch but both were so nice. It was quite hot and they made my dog a makeshift water bowl out of a takeout container meant a lot and my dog was very grateful. read more

Xclusive Taqueria Moderna - Makeshift water bowl for my doggie - Mexican Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

Shower event catered by exclusive and the food was absolutely phenomenal Our 25 guests enjoyed the food and went back for seconds and thirds The service was incredible delivery on time all of the required utensils were provided with plenty of napkins and the fee was very appropriate we will definitely use exclusive again and we highly recommend that you give them a try you can trust them with your event read more

A nicer Mexican restaurant with great vegetarian options. Casual place yet more than casual dining. Delicious chips, salsa and bean dip for starters. The cauliflower taco pickled cabbage threw me off a bit but still good. The vegetable enchiladas were hearty with great rice and bean side. Solid meal. Good service and plenty of seating with sports on every tv to enjoy. read more

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This place is consistently fantastic. The quality of food and service is above par and I appreciate the owner going above and beyond to make sure everyone is happy. read more

Saw the reviews and couldn't have been more excited to come check it out. Food was fine. Service was good. It filled up with guests while we were sitting there. Everything was totally adequate. Nothing was a standout and I wouldn't go out of my way to eat here. It was a nice evening. We sat on the patio and enjoyed the weather. Families and dogs were welcome. For us, we have better options closer to home. read more

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Best tacos I've had in sometime... pork belly and fish ...More gourmet than Sanchos which is my go to in San Clemente. My friend had the short rib tacos and was over the moon! They were very accommodating for my dogs and a nice private patio. I will be back soon! read more

The tacos were amazing! The steak was packed with flavor, tender, and cooked perfectly. The chile relleno was absolutely delicious and one of the best I've had. Everything tasted fresh and authentic, and the portions were great. If you're looking for great tacos and amazing Mexican food, this place is definitely worth a visit. We'll be back for sure! read more

Had an amazing time here today. Everything that hit the table was spot on--fresh, flavorful, and beautifully done. The cocktails were just as good, balanced and creative, and I loved seeing AsomBroso behind the bar. On top of all that, the service couldn't have been friendlier. Attentive without rushing, and you could tell they really wanted everyone to enjoy themselves. Between the atmosphere, the drinks, and the food, this spot is an easy 5 stars. --Rick read more

Someone at Ladera Animal Hospital recommended Xclusive. Great call! Thank you!! The tortilla chips were deliciously warm and crunchy. What a treat to be served two options; a spicy, slightly watery salsa and a flavorful warm bean dip. Yummy! We did not know when happy hour started but got here at 4:45; so I guess it was going on. Bummer. We would have ordered off the happy hour menu. We got the queso fundido, which was delicious but there was no pork chorizo. That was the first ingredient listed so we were excited. When we asked the waiter, he said it was there "lightly." If he said so.... A gentleman who may have been the owner or manager said next time to ask the waiter for more chorizo. It never occurred to me that was an option but it was kind of him to say. There was a tiny bit of outstanding guacamole, and chopped tomatoes. It was not pico de gallo but great flavor. Again, in the item description. We were just here for a light bite and this fit the bill. It was cheesy, warm, and filling. Next time, check the website first to see about any offers. That would've been much more desirable. Our dish was listed as an appetizer. It would satisfy three or four hungry diners. We will be back for Happy Hour. read more

Xclusive Taqueria Moderna - Queso Fundido - Mexican Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

Food has been going downhill. Skirt steak tasted bad/old. Wife was disturbed by a waiter staring at her. Second time he has done this. She's never complained about something like this before. read more

My family and I have been coming here since the place opened! This is the best Mexican restaurant in Orange County and has the best margaritas everywhere! Alex makes the best margaritas and he and Gabby are so kind. We will always come here read more

Xclusive Taqueria Moderna - Mango margarita blended - Mexican Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

Yummy! Walked into a restaurant filled with friendly faces. Started off our meal with some warm chips, salsa and delicious refried beans. I tried their pineapple margarita and it was nice and strong. The taco sampler was a great choice for us who wanted to try different meats, but my boys went with the 3 asada tacos, I tried their taco and enchilada combo, which was also delicious. They were all well plated and came out in a good amount of time. read more

Xclusive Taqueria Moderna - Taco sampler - Mexican Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

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My daughter is playing league down here at some beautiful facility and I parked in front of this Mexican restaurant and decided to give them a try. There's not many choices down. Here might be the best Carnitas burrito I've ever had in my life a must try and I'm probably gonna come back just to eat here again and I live an hour away EY read more

Love the food. The bean dip is very good. Love the creativity of their tacos. It is a little pricey but you get what you pay for.. read more

Xclusive Taqueria Moderna - Cauliflower Taco. Cart and Pork Belly Taco. Cart - Mexican Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

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This place is amazing! It's part of our weekly rotation, mostly for brunch. I love the breakfast enchiladas and the huevos rancheros. Everything is so flavorful. The staff is so good!!! They always take the best care of us. I know I'm going to have an excellent meal when we go to Xclusive, and I look forward to it all week. read more

Good! We really liked it! Also, service is wonderful! Everyone is making a dedicated effort to make sure you have a good experience!

My go to spot for Mexican Food!! Love everything here! Dog friendly covered outdoor patio. My favorite dishes are the Fish, Shrimp and Pork Belly Tacos and the Seafood Enchilada plate! Oh and the Guac Appetizer is delish too!! read more

The food was delicious and the service was excellent. We started with chips, salsa and guacamole, everything was great! The carnitas and steak both had great flavors and dessert was equally delicious. We will definitely be back! read more

The food here is fantastic. My friend and I shared a couple of dishes, so we could try more. We started with a spicy pineapple and jalapeño margarita with our chips, salsa and warm bean dip. We ordered the carnitas taco and enchilada combo with beans and rice and two sea bass tacos a la cart. We were stuffed, but loved every bite! The ambiance is fun and not stuffy at all with a bar and also outside seating. Service was just fine; not too much or too little attention. We cannot wait to return! read more

Xclusive Taqueria Moderna - Mexican Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

Amazing service, our server was so kind and patient as we were dining with toddlers. The kids meal was huge, easily split between two. All our entrees were delicious, we will be back! read more

We tried the Molcajete and it was amazing! Comes with chicken, steak, chorizo, AND carnitas. read more

Xclusive Taqueria Moderna - Molcajete - Mexican Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

My new fave Mexican restaurant! What a hidden gem. Small place with a cool vibe and the BEST gourmet tacos I've ever had. We tried the sea bass, calamari, pork belly and my personal favorite the chile relleno tacos. Will definitely be back read more

Food was okay .. tablets says lobster no lobster in the dish .. service was incredible thank god they have Nacho to make it all better . read more

Xclusive Taqueria Moderna - This was our waiter Nacho, he was just awesome, take a look at the Parilla I ordered yum - Mexican Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

This is our second time coming to this restaurant, and we can honestly say we have become a fan! Several months back, our son-in-law and our daughter suggested this restaurant since they live in the neighborhood and have had great experience. Last night, we had a delicious dinner. We started with The Grilled Pineapple Margaritas (my favorites), Cadillac Margaritas, and Model Especial beers, and shared the Guacamole with chips, salsa, and warm bean dip. Our entrees were the Skirt Steak Lollipops (absolutely delicious), the Shrimp Tacos combo, Skillet Tacos Al pastor, and Churros, and everything was terrific, from the presentation to the delightful flavors. We had Alejandro G. as our server, and he was welcoming, attentive, and friendly, making our dinner pleasant and fun. We will be coming back over, over and over again! Keep up the great job!! Two thumbs up read more

Xclusive Taqueria Moderna - Grilled Pineapple Margarita- my favorite - Mexican Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

I had a chicken burrito today and my wife had a cheese and beans burrito! The chicken burrito was horrible and the chicken was hard and completely disgusting! We called and complained to the manager but they were very unprofessional and hung up on us! Please check the chicken before you eat it, they don't cook fresh chicken for to go orders! Very high possibility of food poisoning! read more

Mexican food is readily available around the area but this place is by far the most exquisitely impressive. Finding the restaurant isn't difficult but parking in the front can sometimes be a challenge. Your best bet is parking behind the restaurant where there are plenty of parking spaces. Walking in, you are greeted by a hostess who will seat you by preference, indoors or at their outdoor covered patio. Luckily, we haven't had any issues being seated right away which is only leads me to one conclusion - very few know how incredible the food is here. Homemade (warm) tortilla chips, salsa, and warm refried beans with small bits of bacon are part of the food service. Honestly, I try not to eat all the tortilla chips and beans but it's hard when it's so damn good. For this trip, I ordered the Xclusive salad... and then I impulsively threw in an order of the pork belly taco because their tacos are arguably the best I've ever had... anywhere! The Xclusive salad consists of grilled fajita veggies, romaine hearts, pepitas seeds, corn, black beans, pico de gallo, avocado, queso fresco, tortilla strips, creamy pepita, and your choice of protein. I chose the steak which was cooked medium and beautifully flavored. The steak was also tender and juicy which went well with the salad. However, the pork belly taco stole the show. The pork belly is generously portioned, brilliantly tender, and juices oozing everywhere that it literally gave me chills. Topped with pickled red cabbage, mango relish, and lime crema, this taco was unexpectedly more than ordinary. All these different flavors were juxtaposed to create a mind blowing rich blend of sweet, savory, and acidic all at once. I threw my napkin down and was like, alright, how do I come here everyday and order this without looking obsessed? My overall experience was game changing. The amazing food and awesome staff combined justifies why I gave this restaurant a five star rating. I will absolutely come back again and again to try out other dishes but the pork belly taco will always be a part of my food order. Please, do not take it off the menu or my world will fall apart. read more

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Wow. Authentic. Reasonable price. Great food and great service. Carlos our server was excellent. Highly recommend the coconut margaritas. read more

Great food & service. Even the chef/owner came out to greet us. I had the veggie enchiladas and they were so yummy. I love the sweet corn that came as a side. Tasty and seasoned just right. Ample portions! My husband got enchiladas with a tasty mole sauce. The desserts finished off the meal nicely. Highly recommend!! read more

What a fantastic place!! Hidden gem, it is. I say hidden because it's tucked away in a cozy Ladera Ranch center. I originally was led to it by Yelp and a craving for Mexican food but for those familiar with the area, it occupies the former Jerry's Dogs location. I love the complimentary chips, salsa and bean dip you receive when you sit down. They have THE BEST chips of any Mexican restaurant -- no doubt! I always get a second helping of the salsa (it tastes phenomenal with the burrito I get). Which brings me to the steak burrito: it's large enough that you can take half away for lunch the following day. My other half loves their $9 taco trio. Probably the best deal on the entire menu. Take out available, too. Great place!! 2021: 40/100 read more

This was our first time eating here. We had seen great reviews about this restaurant and wanted to try it as we love Mexican food. We did take out. Our order was ready within 15 minutes of when we ordered. We ordered the steak enchiladas with mole sauce, cheese enchiladas with red sauce (non spicy we specified) veggie fajitas and steak fajitas (steak not pink we specified) . The veggie fajitas were good as they came with a nice assortment of veggies but the cheese enchiladas were extremely spicy to our disappointment. The steak in the steak fajitas was a mix of pink meat and burnt meat. Again, extremely disappointed. The veggie fajitas were good. They also have white rice instead of Spanish rice with the veggie fajitas which was nice since the white was not cooked in a protein stock. I've never been disappointed with the tortillas for fajitas before today. Usually they ask if you want flour or corn. These were not good. I did like the tortilla chips that they gave with the meal but there definitely wasn't enough for four people. I really can't decide if I'll go back to this restaurant again. Maybe if you eat there it will be better. One can only hope. read more

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Been going here for years and up until recently it was good. Changes in the management are apparent. Quality of service has gone down. Brought a friend recently who had never been and she like her burrito, despite the dry carnitas, mine came out wrong and the bar tender decided that I was in the wrong, charged me and then embarrassed me in front of my friend and other customers. Completely unprofessional and very rude. After visiting for over five years my family and I will not return. There are other places we can overspend on dinner out that provide kinder service and a better experience. Super disappointed. read more

Xclusive Taqueria Moderna - Empty restaurant - Mexican Near Me - Ladera Ranch, California

I love my weekend breakfast burritos, probably more than most. I got to try their breakfast burrito at the Ladera Farmer's Market, and before I received it this burrito sounded great! We ordered one for each of us, at $10 each. The ingredient list was fairly long for a breakfast burrito, including salsa, beans, cheese, choice of meat, and potato. The people working the food truck were super friendly and helpful. It may just have been an off day given all the other amazing reviews, but the burrito was surprisingly flavorless given the amount of fun add-ins. We were especially surprised that the bacon had no flavor at all (and there were maybe two tiny squares of it in both of our burritos). I compared it to cardboard, which I didn't think was possible with bacon. Again, maybe an off day, but this place was a miss for me. read more

Best Mexican food I have had. Service is very freindly! Restaurant is clean. Love the live music!!!

Great food and service! Very friendly and attentive. Authentic Mexican food, everything is so fresh!

Service was okay, Definitely don't order the trio Empanadas if you're expecting empanadas because you will get 3 birria tacos!! The kids beef taco is not worth $12 + $4 apple juice!!! I ordered the taco sampler and they didn't even come with salsa nor did they bother to offer salsa. Definitely won't be coming back! read more