Taqueria Tapatia

202 S Bristol St, Santa Ana, CA 92703, United States
$$$ Mexican restaurant
(1894 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

If you're craving a genuine taste of Mexico in Santa Ana, look no further than Taqueria Tapatia. This vibrant Mexican restaurant, nestled at 202 S Bristol St, is the culinary haven where flavor meets affordability. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be embraced by an inviting atmosphere that reflects the rich culture and traditions of Mexican dining.

Taqueria Tapatia is primarily known for its mouth-watering tacos and fresh aguas frescas, a combination that delights both locals and visitors alike. Popular choices include the al pastor tacos—succulent and seasoned to perfection, these tacos are beautifully paired with the refreshing Jamaica drink, a hibiscus infusion favored by many patrons. Hilario Beltran praises this perfect pairing, emphasizing how it makes each visit a must during his time in California.

But the menu doesn't stop at just tacos! Dive into a variety of other traditional offerings including asada tacos and hearty burritos. The affordability of the menu is a delightful surprise, with tacos priced at just $1.76 and burritos at around $9. As one reviewer noted, it’s a great spot to visit after a night out due to its late hours, ensuring you indulge in satisfying bites that won't break the bank.

With a commitment to hearty portions and affordable pricing, meals here typically range between $12 and $20, making it a fantastic value for a meal that’s bursting with flavor. While some reviews point out that the ambiance might not be the flashiest—reflecting a cozy, humble charm—the quality and taste of the food certainly shine through.

It’s important to mention that Taqueria Tapatia operates on a cash-only basis, although there is an ATM available on-site for your convenience. This adds an element of authenticity and local character to your visit. Whether you’re a seasoned taco aficionado or new to the flavors of Mexican cuisine, your taste buds are sure to delight with every bite.

In addition to its tantalizing dishes, the fast and friendly service ensures that you feel right at home—something that many customers have appreciated in their reviews. Animal Kicker calls it one of their favorite spots in Santa Ana, highlighting the rich flavors and excellent customer service as reasons to keep returning.

So if you find yourself in the area, make sure to stop by Taqueria Tapatia for an unforgettable dining experience that combines authenticity, taste, and unbeatable prices. Your palette will thank you!

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Has fast service
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Serves late-night food
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Popular with university students
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts debit cards
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

8:00 AM - 1:00 AM

Tuesday

8:00 AM - 1:00 AM

Wednesday

8:00 AM - 1:00 AM

Thursday

8:00 AM - 1:00 AM

Friday

8:00 AM - 1:00 AM

Saturday

8:00 AM - 1:00 AM

Sunday

8:00 AM - 1:00 AM

1894 Reviews
hilario beltran

04 Sep 2025

Great place, I love their tacos and fresh Agua drinks. Favorit is Jamiaca "Hibiscus" water. Not for everyone, but I love it pairs well with my al-pastor tacos. Everything I'm in Cali, it's a must for me and my wife to stop and pick up some tacos and fresh aguas. Her favorite drink is the cantaloupe fresh Agua. This is the only place that she enjoyed this drink from. We tried multiple places before. The dine in area is a bit dated. Looks the same since I first went there 20 plus years ago, but the quality and taste of their food has not gone down. Their salsa cart is also tasty. 2 different sauces green and red. They also have rajas,pickeled sliced carrots, onion, jalapeños, and garlic. They go great with all their tacos and tortas.

TL

31 Aug 2025

This place is a surprise hidden gem that we just discovered. Food is pretty delicious and damn cheap! Only 1.76$ per taco that was pretty loaded and like almost $9 burrito, we got an asada burrito and 1 al pastor taco for a total of like $12. Cash only but it opens very late so is great for us to come in after a night out! Would come back again. 8/10.

Animal KICKER

22 Aug 2025

One of my favorite taco spots in Santa Ana. My meals usually cost between $12-$16, with drink under $20. I usually get Carne or El Pastor tacos with a plate of rice and beans

Betsy R

21 Aug 2025

Food was good. I wouldn’t come again unless it was my last option. I ordered Tacos de asada but they had little flavor. Tortillas seemed a little crumbly. They do add a lot of meat though. the place is a bit dirty but not too bad. Service was fast and easy

Malana Dodd

23 Jun 2025

This is some of the best food in the city! Every item I have tried has been perfectly seasoned, affordable, huge, and delicious. This has quickly become my go to food stop in Santa Ana. This location is cash only but they do have an ATM in the store.

JuNe SaNe

10 Jun 2025

Came here 6 years ago from Tucson and was recommended someplace new and place, and was amazing. Came by again Saturday to have my family try it, and still amazing to this day

Gaddie G

29 May 2025

All very well, Rica's tortas, good tacos, Rica's enchiladas...delicious burritos...good portion, excellent customer service. the service is somewhat fast. Good atmosphere to eat with the family. Note; The bathroom is located on ONE side of the restaurant. only Something that does not convince at this point that they do not accept debit or credit card, SO be prepared with cash, there is an ATM machine inside the same taqueria, but there is a charge for THAT ... but in general I do recommend This place... just because they don't accept cash, but if I gave them 5 stars...

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