Best Brunch Bliss Spots Mexican Restaurants in Santa Monica
5 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Back on the Beach Cafe
A Santa Monica landmark where you can eat seafood tacos at tables set directly in the sand.
Notable Picks
8.4
This longtime beachfront cafe attached to the Annenberg Beach House serves a trio of seafood tacos—fish, shrimp, and salmon—steps from the sand. The tacos pair crisp slaw and pico with ocean views that make a casual plate feel like a mini vacation.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fish Tacos, Shrimp Tacos, Salmon Tacos
What Makes it Special: A Santa Monica landmark where you can eat seafood tacos at tables set directly in the sand.
#2
Sol Agave
8.1
From food truck to beachside success, this modern Mexican spot specializes in all-natural braised carnitas and fresh seafood preparations. The contemporary presentation maintains authentic flavors while offering free parking near the pier.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carnitas Plate, Sugar Cane Filet Appetizer, Lobster Enchiladas
What Makes it Special: All-natural braised pork carnitas from food truck origins
8.1
Santa Monica staple since 1974 serving hearty breakfast plates and classic Mexican comfort food in a casual setting decorated with memorabilia and vintage photos. The family operation is known for generous portions, excellent menudo on weekends, and their legendary Diablo salsa.
Must-Try Dishes:
Weekend Menudo, Carne Asada Breakfast, Dorado Tacos
What Makes it Special: Won Santa Monica's 2024 Most Loved Mexican Restaurant with 50 years of family recipes
Worthy Picks
7.7
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Happy Hour Hotspots
Brunch Bliss Spots
Business Lunch Power Players
Modern evolution of the 1999 taqueria bringing elevated Puebla-style recipes with a full bar to the gentrifying Lincoln Boulevard corridor. The family operation maintains traditional preparations while expanding the experience with craft cocktails and weekend brunch.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne Asada Tacos, Breakfast Burrito, Carnitas Plate
What Makes it Special: Family recipes from Puebla passed down through generations with new bar program
7.6
No-frills taqueria on Main Street serving oversized burritos and street tacos until late night with fresh-made tortillas. The casual counter-service spot draws beach crowds with its late hours and straightforward Mexican staples.
Must-Try Dishes:
Super Asada Burrito, Fish Tacos, Breakfast Burrito
What Makes it Special: Open until 2:15am on weekends serving big portions to the late-night crowd