Remember when you could just decide you wanted tacos al pastor, hop in the car, and be at that perfect taqueria in twenty minutes? Now your quest for the best birria is governed by delivery zones and the cruel whims of traffic. But fear not. We’ve braved the radiuses and the gridlock to bring you the definitive list of where to find authentic, glorious Mexican food in Pleasanton right now.
Wild One Grill
$$ | (925) 249-9108 | WEBSITE
How does grilled salmon with polenta cakes and asparagus sound right about now? We’re guessing pretty good. Wild One Grill makes some of the best Mexican food in the Eastbay and they’re serving everything from their famous carnitas to a watermelon-feta spinach salad with salmon. Be warned that their high-end gourmet menu is quite pricey but entirely worth it.
If you’re after something a little more affordable, you’ll find generous pours of wine, great local beer on tap, and refreshing sangria on their menu too.
Taqueria El Gallo
$ | (925) 225-0186 | WEBSITE
Listen, if you don’t get excited about a massive vegan super burrito or a shrimp cocktail that’s basically a party in a glass, then we might need to have a serious talk. Those are just a couple of the things you’ll find at this vibrant Mexican spot, but you’ll also discover vegetarian nachos, soft tacos, quick service, friendly workers, and outdoor seating on nice days, on their menu too.
Cocina Mexico
$ | (925) 485-3010 | WEBSITE
Few things will spark joy in the heart of most downtown diners like a basket of nachos. Especially if those nachos are from Cocina Mexico. You can order a generous plate of their signature nachos, complete with creamy avocado salsa and all the fixings, for under $15 directly from their counter.
Father Johnson’s International Cuisine
$$$$ | (510) 200-2033 | WEBSITE
Father Johnson’s International Cuisine have made it their personal mission to deliver sophisticated Mexican dining across all of Pleasanton. Know what we call that? God’s work. Order the guacamole and waffles here.
Bronzes taqueria
$ | (925) 523-3435 | WEBSITE
Sure, Bronzes Taqueria might sound like just another Mexican joint, but it’s actually the standout spot for authentic tacos in Pleasanton. One of our favourite little places to eat Mexican food, they’re serving up fresh classics and plenty of affordable options too. Be sure to try the carnitas or pastor tacos, and don’t miss the tortilla soup with its hearty serving of chicken, avocado, and cheese.
Alberto’s Cantina
$$ | (925) 462-2316 | WEBSITE
If you’re into Tex-Mex, you’ll be into Alberto’s Cantina. The people behind the generous, excellent food are delivering huge portions from their Downtown Pleasanton spot. You’ll find everything from a $15 burrito packed with fresh ingredients to a cheap and cheerful street taco trio for $12.
Two Amigos
$ | (925) 425-7667 | WEBSITE
Burritos, tacos, and cheese enchiladas are only three of the dishes you can enjoy at welcoming Mexican spot, Two Amigos. And with their generous portions and scratch-made approach, it’ll be near impossible for you to leave unsatisfied. You can visit them directly at their Pleasanton location.
Rancho Grande Taqueria Pleasanton
$ | (925) 600-8620 | WEBSITE
We were a little disappointed to find out that Rancho Grande doesn’t serve their salsa via golden chalice. But they are serving their fresh daily salsa across the whole of Pleasanton, which is good enough for us. You can get your Mexican fix from their convenient takeout option.
Golden State Taqueria
$ | (925) 737-0399 | WEBSITE
This authentic Mexican taqueria is serving up traditional tacos like Al pastor, carnitas, pollo, BBQ pollo, and chorizo, all with a salsa that packs a serious kick. They’re also offering generous carne asada plates for around $21 and burritos you can customize without rice for extra beans. You can grab complimentary chips and salsa, made fresh in-house, to start your meal right. The dining room is clean and welcoming, perfect for catching a game or hanging with friends.
You can visit them at their spot in the Rosewood Pavilion.
Fiesta Taco
$ | (925) 417-0408 | WEBSITE
If one type of taco isn’t enough for you, then Fiesta Taco’s carne asada super taco should be on your radar. With both steak rancheros and carnitas options, it comes with enough to make a satisfying meal and includes everything down to the flavorful sauces. They’re also offering generous portions of meat dishes alongside vegetarian options, which comes with access to the salsa bar. You do the math. Order from their convenient location with ample parking.
Taqueria Don Chepe
$ | (925) 462-7319 | WEBSITE
Please don’t tell our future in-laws, but 99% of the reason we want to host a family gathering is for an excuse to order Taqueria Don Chepe’s incredible carnitas. This taqueria creates the kind of crispy carnitas, flavorful tacos, and authentic burritos that we’re not sure whether to devour or photograph, and they’re catering across Pleasanton. Check out their free chips and salsa or their pozole if you’re after something more spicy.
Mexico Lindo Cantina & Restaurant
$$ | (925) 462-1140 | WEBSITE
We’ve probably spent more of our life in a Mexican cantina than we spent attending university lectures. And you know what? We regret nothing. If you’re looking to turn your dining room, patio, or living room (hey, we don’t judge) into your new cantina for the day then it’s time for a big order from Mexico Lindo. Margarita pitcher encouraged.
Taqueria Extra
$ | (925) 201-3849 | WEBSITE
The only thing standing between you and the respect of your friends is a decent taco. And Taqueria Extra offers generous servings of meat, fresh toppings, and even complimentary chips to scoop up salsa. Thankfully they’re serving everything from loaded burritos and quesadillas, to lengua tacos across Pleasanton.