Best Tacos in Ventura County

Ventura · Mexican

Johnny's has been the downtown Ventura standard for hard-shell tacos since before most locals can remember. The shredded beef is the move, paired with their salsa verde. No frills, no line, no disappointment.

“The real thing, no updates needed.”

Camarillo · Mexican · Japanese · Seafood

Spencer Makenzie's has won the local fish taco vote for 16 consecutive years, and the national press has noticed too. The tempura version with house Spencer Sauce earns every bit of the reputation.

“Best fish taco in America, 16 years running.”

Ventura · Mexican

Rooted in Morelos, Mexico, and open since 2007 on Ventura Avenue. The al pastor and carnitas are cooked right, the prices are honest, and the tortillas are fresh. Multiple locations across the county.

Oxnard · Seafood · Mexican

Oxnard's coastal seafood taco destination. The mariscos-style tacos here, especially the shrimp and octopus options, hit differently than the standard carne asada lineup. Worth the detour to the harbor side.

Ventura · Mexican · Tex-Mex · Seafood

Waterfront location at Ventura Harbor with award-winning house salsa and a full Tex-Mex spread. The outdoor patio overlooking the marina makes every taco feel like a California afternoon.

Oxnard · Mexican

Grilling flame-cooked chicken and tri-tip since 1982 in Oxnard. Fresh, never-frozen meat and a no-nonsense approach to Mexican food. The chicken tacos are as straightforward and satisfying as it gets.

Santa Paula · Mexican

Santa Paula locals know this spot for made-to-order salsas and tacos that don't try to be anything other than what they are. A clean, reliable neighborhood taqueria that does the basics right.

Ojai · American

Thirty-plus years feeding Ojai with burritos and tacos built on real ingredients. Jim and Rob's philosophy is simple: healthy food, as fast as they can make it. The fresh tortillas show the difference.