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ZipPicks Awards
Best Happy Hour Tacos in Santa Monica
Best Family Friendly Mexican in Santa Monica
Best Burritos in Santa Monica
Best Fried Chicken in Santa Monica
Best Tacos in Santa Monica
Master Critic Review
Blue Plate Taco
8.2
This beachside Baja-meets-Santa Monica spot features ocean views, handmade tortillas made fresh all day, and a coastal approach to Mexican cuisine. Happy hour brings discounted margaritas and sustainable, organic ingredients prepared with California flair.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baja Fish Tacos, Short Rib Tacos, Lobster Taco
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Ocean views with organic, sustainably-sourced ingredients
Who should go: Tourists and beachgoers seeking upscale tacos
When to visit: Happy hour Mon-Thu 4-6pm for sunset views
What to order: Baja fish tacos, house margarita, guacamole flight
Insider tip: $10 parking at Shore Hotel with restaurant receipt
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet $15, Shore Hotel lot $10 with receipt validation, street parking nearly impossible after 5pm on Ocean Ave
Dress code: California casual chic - nice jeans and a stylish top work, beachy but put-together
Noise level: Lively but manageable - outdoor seating can get loud during peak times but indoor tables allow conversation
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation, bar seating sometimes available in 20-30 min
Weekday lunch: 15-20 min typical, no wait before noon
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - 5-6 solid options including mushroom tacos and cauliflower ceviche
Vegan options: Limited - can modify 3-4 items, ask for dairy-free options
Gluten-free options: Yes - corn tortillas standard, dedicated fryer for chips
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect for first dates - upscale enough to impress but casual enough to feel relaxed, ocean views provide natural conversation starters, and sharing plates encourage interaction
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch yes, dinner unlikely - try bar seating or put your name in and grab drinks at the beach while waiting
Is it kid-friendly? Better for older kids (10+) - no kids menu but they'll do plain quesadillas, atmosphere skews adult especially at dinner
Best For
Better for: Ocean views and upscale ambiance beats other taco spots, plus the only place with a proper guacamole flight and craft margarita program
Skip if: You want authentic street tacos under $3 each or need quick casual dining - try Tacos Por Favor on Olympic instead
Hours
Monday11:30am - 10pm
Tuesday11:30am - 10pm
Wednesday11:30am - 10pm
Thursday11:30am - 10pm
Friday11:30am - 10pm
Saturday11am - 10pm
Sunday11am - 10pm