Taco Mesa — Restaurant in Costa Mesa

I've only gone twice, and both times I was disappointed. First time, they messed up my order and gave me something else, which isn't really a problem for me because it's easily fixed. The second time, the cashier girl pushed some huge plate of $6 guacamole and chips even though I was by myself, which I denied, but she misheard me over the loud music playing in the kitchen and served me the plate with chips first. I corrected her, saying I did not want that, and she apologized and told me she would get me my money back, despite paying in debit. I trusted her and went on my way. I checked my bank account today and saw that they did not actually refund the guacamole.

I'm not usually harsh on places nor am I going to go out of my way to contest it because it's just 6$, but if they're just going to take my money over their mistake, and not correct it that same day, then they lost a customer. There is Mexican food of equal or better taste and value that don't push you expensive appetizers, so I will not be coming back. If they mess up your order, make sure you get your money back...

The og from Ivan's empire. I went here out of a convenience and nostalgia when I was at the beach. The food is still great although obviously the prices have gone up since last time I was there but that's across the board across the whole country. I recommended carnitas burrito or the fish burrito. The steak burrito was good and all, but the meat was very chunky and not cut, so basically, when I took a bite, I got the whole meat all at once and that was not pleasant. I still love that they have their salsa bar, thats always top notch as well as the vegetables (escabeche). In addition to the prices of having gone up significantly, the quantities have decreased a bit. The burritos feel a little bit smaller than they used to be, and I'll let you be the judge, I got four burritos, and the total came out to $62. Thats steep. The vibe is still og, but the prices are not, would ai come back. For sure, but just have to...

Taco Mesa is an outstanding local spot for handmade, homestyle Mexican dining. You'll find that all the food here is lovingly prepared to at least the standard you might expect at a nicer restaurant, however, you (and your wallet) will be delighted to learn that this is merely casual dining done at it's very best. Not satisfied with just handmade salsas, the chefs at Taco Mesa also freshly prepare all sauces, entrees and sides. Even a simple side "with Mexican vegetables" is a party in your mouth - zucchini, greens, mushrooms, roasted corn... perfectly seasoned and not soggy... where has this been all my life? So what's the big deal you may ask? Well, let me just say... once you have the privilege of wrapping your mouth around a bite of warm, juicy enchiladas soaked in zesty tomatillo sauce, you'll ask yourself two things: (1) why does this food taste so damn good? (2) why have I been settling for anything...