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Best Contemporary Mexican Restaurants in Newport Beach

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7 restaurants available nearby

A photo of RED O Taste of Mexico - Newport Beach restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(5364)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary mexican • Newport Beach
Booked 120 times today
At RED O Taste of Mexico in Newport Beach, diners are treated to more than just a meal; they experience the pinnacle of steak cuisine infused with unique Mexican flavors, crafted by the culinary expertise of Rick Bayless. Known for its prime cuts, the steak at RED O is perfectly complemented by the freshest local ingredients, creating dishes that are both authentic and innovative. One diner raved, "I always get the steak and lobster - epic," highlighting the outstanding quality and flavor. The restaurant's vibrant atmosphere, combined with an award-winning wine list and top-notch service, ensures every steak dish is a memorable part of the dining adventure. Whether it's a special occasion or a casual outing, RED O promises a steak experience that's both luxurious and deeply satisfying.
A photo of Descanso - Standard Dining restaurant
4.4
Awesome(570)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary mexican • Costa Mesa
Booked 19 times today
Descanso in Costa Mesa offers a uniquely vibrant Dining Bar experience that is a must-try for anyone craving authentic Mexican flavors with a festive twist. Patrons rave about the engaging atmosphere and exceptional service, with one guest exclaiming, "the service was impeccable, the menu offerings were diverse and enticing, and the atmosphere was lively and festive." The highlight of Descanso is the interactive Dining Bar, where dishes like the tantalizing Mexican fried rice are prepared right before your eyes, enhancing the dining experience. Reviewers consistently praise the freshness and flavor of the food, with comments like "the food here is absolutely delicious! Every dish we tried was bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection." Whether you're enjoying a casual meal or celebrating a special occasion, Descanso's Dining Bar promises a memorable and enjoyable experience for all.
A photo of Puesto Los Olivos restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1763)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary mexican • Irvine
Booked 55 times today
Puesto Los Olivos in Irvine stands out as a beacon of Mexican culinary excellence, celebrated for its innovative take on traditional flavors. Owned by a Mexican American family, the restaurant prides itself on creating memories around tacos. It features Mexico City-style crispy melted cheese tacos that have earned national acclaim, as highlighted by prestigious media outlets like National Geographic and LA Times. Patrons rave about the authentic and distinct offerings, with one exclaiming, "The food never disappoints! The tacos are great and so are the cocktails." The use of non-GMO, organic maíz azul tortillas and a menu crafted by Chef/Partner Luisteen Gonzales ensures every dish is a masterpiece, truly encapsulating the spirit of Mexican cuisine with a modern twist.
A photo of Puesto Park Place restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1087)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary mexican • Irvine
Booked 30 times today
Puesto Park Place in Irvine stands out as a premier Cocktail Bar, drawing accolades for its innovative approach to authentic Mexican flavors and its stylish, upbeat ambiance. Patrons rave about the handcrafted margaritas, with one reviewer exclaiming, "The Cadillac margarita was so tasty!" Another noted, "The 4 Copas Cadillac Margarita was exceptional." Puesto's cocktail menu is designed to complement their exquisite food offerings, enhancing the overall dining experience. Guests consistently praise the variety and creativity of the drinks, with a special shoutout to the "refreshing and flavorful" beverages that make every visit memorable. Whether it's a casual outing or a special occasion, Puesto Park Place delivers a cocktail experience that's both authentic and unforgettable.
A photo of SandBar Huntington Beach restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(110)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary mexican • Huntington Beach
Booked 7 times today
Step into the vibrant heart of Traditional Mexican cuisine at SandBar Huntington Beach, where the spirit of Mexico's coastal regions is brought to life. This gem, nestled just blocks from the Pacific, offers a culinary journey with its "delicious food" and an extensive selection of international tequilas and mezcals. Diners rave about the authenticity and flavor, noting the fish tacos are "full of flavor" and the Birria tacos "amazing." With its "fun atmosphere" and "excellent service," SandBar stands out for its creative takes on Mexican classics. The handcrafted margaritas and lively decor make every visit a festive and memorable experience. As one happy diner put it, SandBar is a place where they "definitely recommend" for anyone craving genuine and exceptional Mexican fare in Huntington Beach.
A photo of Silver Trumpet Restaurant & Bar restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1645)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary mexican • Costa Mesa
Booked 8 times today
Silver Trumpet Restaurant & Bar in Costa Mesa stands out as a prime destination for exceptional Mexican cuisine. Nestled within the vibrant Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, this AAA Three-Diamond rated eatery crafts authentic Mexican dishes that are both creative and delicious. Diners rave about the "unbelievable food" and "unique cocktails," highlighting menu stars like the Chilean sea bass and the herb-crusted halibut. The atmosphere is described as "beautiful" and "lively," perfect for a night out. Regulars and newcomers alike are impressed, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-notch Mexican culinary experience in Costa Mesa.
A photo of Fred's Mexican Cafe - Huntington Beach restaurant
4.4
Awesome(38)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary mexican • Huntington Beach
Booked 2 times today
Fred's Mexican Cafe in Huntington Beach is renowned for delivering "the best Mexican food" with an authentic flair and exceptional service. Guests frequently rave about the "amazing service" and the "beautiful view on the patio," which accentuates the dining experience. With dishes like the surf and turf fajitas and Diablo shrimp highly recommended for their generous portions, the restaurant ensures satisfaction on all fronts. The atmosphere is consistently described as vibrant and welcoming, perfect for any occasion from casual dining to special celebrations. Regulars and newcomers alike commend Fred's for its commitment to quality and atmosphere, making it a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Mexican cuisine with a stunning ocean view.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • misty
    Palm Springs / Palm Desert Cities •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Our waiter Kevin was great! Beautiful restaurant as well.
    More info
    RED O Taste of Mexico - Newport BeachPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Mexican• Newport Beach
    4.6
  • OpenTable Diner
    Houston •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We had to add three (3) extra guests to our reservation and Puesto handled it no problem. We all arrived and we were quickly seated. The food and service were better than five (5) star. Our server gave us excellent recommendation’s. I felt like what ate was good for the value. We all tried the filet taco, perfect. Everyone enjoyed the dinner. Would go back and highly recommend.
    More info
    Puesto AnaheimPrice: Expensive• Mexican• Anaheim
    4.7
  • maureen
    Orange County •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 13 Nov 2024
    Fantastic, fun time at Puesto Los Olivos again. Food was delicious! We had the salsa bar (all the salsas were fantastic. The table's favorites ended up being the sweet, smoky pineapple and the smoky tomato), classic guacamole and various tacos for Taco Tuesday. I had the Verduras taco with no cheese because I'm vegan. I appreciate that they always accommodate that request. It is delicious! Other people at the table had the filet mignon, short rib and carnitas tacos. The favorite was the short rib taco. The ambiance is fantastic at this location. We sat out on their beautiful, festive patio, with hanging lights and heat lamps. This is always a favorite!
    More info
    Puesto Los OlivosPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Mexican• Irvine
    4.6
  • OpenTable Diner
    Little Rock •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on 12 Nov 2024
    Had to wait quite a while, like an hour for food, which wasn’t super comfortable on the wooden bench but the ambiance was fantastic and music selection fun and hip. I ordered the chicken mole enchiladas and just about died it was the best mole I’ve had in the states! Phenomenal!
    More info
    Puesto Park PlacePrice: Moderate• Mexican• Irvine
    4.5
  • Joshua
    Los Angeles •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 20 Oct 2024
    I had such a great time. I celebrated my birthday during brunch and our secret was so attentive. The bottomless mimosas is so worth it. My glass was never empty. The food was also good and very fresh. Would definitely come back.
    More info
    Descanso - Standard DiningPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Costa Mesa
    4.4

Discover best Contemporary Mexican restaurants in Newport Beach

Discover the vibrant flavors of contemporary Mexican cuisine in South Orange County, particularly in the picturesque Newport Beach area. This region is renowned for its eclectic dining scene, which beautifully marries upscale living with culinary innovation. Here, diners can indulge in a range of contemporary Mexican dishes that reflect a modern twist on traditional Mexican cooking techniques and ingredients. Restaurants in this locale emphasize the use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring each dish bursts with authentic and bold flavors. The ambiance of these dining spots typically features chic, sophisticated decor that complements the innovative menus. Patrons can expect not only exceptional food but also impeccable service and an inviting atmosphere that makes each meal a memorable experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the contemporary Mexican restaurants in Newport Beach offer a unique and satisfying dining experience that highlights the best of local culinary talents and traditions.

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