Taqueria El Buen Gusto & Best Menudo — Restaurant in Santa Barbara

Food quality: AMAZING. Literally the best carnitas burrito I’ve had in all of Santa Barbara as someone not originally from here. Back home, the options for delicious Mexican food are everywhere and I’ve noticed it’s not the same in SB since moving here 3 years ago. Since finding Buen Gusto, I haven’t gone anywhere else for a burrito.

Pros: Burritos and tacos are both packed full of meat Salsa bar with jalapeños, limes, and radishes which is something other places don’t have anymore QUICK service. Came on Father’s Day while it was busy and was given my food less than 10 minutes after placing my order Staff is bilingual (English & Spanish) Can order by phone (love doing this!) Regular burrito comes with more than just beans and rice, also includes pico which definitely elevates the whole thing

Cons: Some people won’t be happy at the decor or atmosphere (hence some of the reviews)

Personally, I find the food absolutely amazing so I don’t mind the outdated decor and atmosphere. One review stated the tables were dirty, however, I’ve never seen that. At least once per visit, I’ve witnessed an employee do a quick floor sweep and some table wipe downs. I just think the decor is a little outdated which someone people will take as being...

Great location on the upper East side of town.

Never a bad meal here.

Staff is very friendly and the food is great!

Sufficient parking on the lot as long as you are not there during the lunch rush hour. Plenty of street parking out back and front though.

It's a busy spot during lunch hour so get there before the lunch crowd. Getting it to go is also a good option as we have done many times when waiting in line isn't an option.

The servings are huge, they are not shy about filling your plate full of meat and veggies. Great for some leftovers for the next day or dinner.

The pastor plate is amazing. It's tangy and tasty. The carnitas plate is alsyo very good. Their tacos are filled with meat and easily twice the portion of other Mexican restaurants. Will have to try their Camarones dishes next time we are there! Variety of Salsas from mild to wild.

Highly recommend you trying...

I've passed by this place many times but never stopped. Mostly because it's in a small shopping center with very little parking. A friend invited me for lunch though so I finally got to try it. I entered a utilitarian interior and was greeted by friendly people who got my order done fairly quickly. Prices are on the high side for a hole-in-the-wall but decent for Santa Barbara.

I ordered the tacos al pastor plate. It was pretty good, with fresh ingredients and lots of food. I tasted my friend's crispy mashed potato tacos and they were really good. Wouldn't mind having them again.

There are better places on Milpas, some of them a hole-in-the wall, and some of them more upscale but there's nothing to complain about here. The...