Best Group Dining Gatherings Tacos Restaurants in Santa Monica
3 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
Tu Madre
8.4
Born from a happy accident with a fried chicken taco, Tu Madre reinvents the taco game with creative combinations like ahi tuna on handmade tortillas. Their vibrant cantina atmosphere and $1.50 happy hour tacos make this a local favorite for groups and date nights alike.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fried Chicken Taco, Ahi Tuna Tostada, Street Corn Nachos
What Makes it Special: Inventive fusion tacos with daily happy hour featuring $1.50 tacos
Worthy Picks
#3
Cabo Cantina
7.8
This party-centric cantina near the Promenade serves mega margaritas and late-night tacos until 2am daily. Known for its 2-for-1 happy hours and raucous atmosphere, it's where beach vibes meet border-town energy with affordable street tacos and bottomless specials.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne Asada Tacos, Fish Tacos with Habanero Sauce, Grilled Shrimp Tacos
What Makes it Special: 36oz Mega Margaritas and kitchen open until 2am every night