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ZipPicks Awards
Best Burritos in Santa Monica
Best Mexican in Santa Monica
Master Critic Review
Tocaya
8.2
Modern Mexican concept emphasizing organic produce and hormone-free proteins in customizable burritos and bowls. Founded in Venice 2016, they hand-press tortillas to order and offer extensive vegan and gluten-free options.
Must-Try Dishes:
Burrito Mexicano, Fajita Del Rey Bowl Burrito-Style, Vegan Cilantro Lime Chicken Burrito
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Extensive vegan menu with innovative plant-based proteins
Who should go: Health-conscious diners and vegans
When to visit: Weekday lunch for quick service
What to order: Burrito Mexicano, street corn, watermelon agua fresca
Insider tip: Taco Tuesday offers great value with $3 tacos
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking ($2/hour) or 3rd Street Promenade garages ($15 flat rate evenings). Best bet is the Santa Monica Place mall garage with 2 hours free validation
Dress code: Come as you are - athletic wear to business casual all welcome
Noise level: Lively but manageable - fast-casual energy with music, can have normal conversation
Weekend wait: 15-20 min peak times, no reservations taken
Weekday lunch: 5-10 min line during 12-1pm rush, minimal wait otherwise
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - extensive options including organic tofu, black beans, and veggie proteins
Vegan options: Yes - standout vegan menu with cashew crema, plant chorizo, and clearly marked options
Gluten-free options: Yes - corn tortillas, lettuce wraps, and bowls available with dedicated prep protocols
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual early dates than formal ones. The fast-casual format and healthy options make it great for lunch dates or pre-beach meetups, but might feel too casual for evening romance
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes - it's order-at-counter service with ample seating. Peak lunch (12-1:30pm) and dinner (6-7:30pm) can get busy but tables turn quickly
Is it kid-friendly? Very - kids love the build-your-own format, mild options available, and quick service means less waiting. High chairs available and outdoor seating good for families
Best For
Better for: Health-conscious Mexican without sacrificing flavor - superior vegan proteins and organic ingredients vs Chipotle, plus made-to-order tortillas unlike most chains
Skip if: You want authentic street tacos or traditional Mexican atmosphere - this is California-healthy Mexican fusion, not your abuela's recipes
Hours
Monday10:30am - 9pm
Tuesday10:30am - 9pm
Wednesday10:30am - 9pm
Thursday10:30am - 9pm
Friday10:30am - 9pm
Saturday10:30am - 9pm
Sunday10:30am - 9pm