Lilly's Taqueria specializes in Mexican street tacos served with fresh salsas at a casual counter-service eatery in Goleta.
Guests enjoy quick service, a vibrant toppings bar, and authentic flavors with no reservations needed.
What to Expect:
🌮 Wide variety of traditional Mexican tacos including cabeza, cachete, and lengua
🌶️ Three salsas from mild to spicy and a topping bar with cilantro, onion, and radishes
⚡ Rapid counter-serve style service in a clean, utilitarian environment
🚶♂️ Casual dine-in and takeout options; no delivery or table service
Important Information:
Open daily except Tuesday
Accepts credit, debit, and mobile payments
Wheelchair accessible entry, seating, restroom, and parking
Reservations not accepted
Visit during non-peak hours for a quicker experience and enjoy some of the best tacos on the central coast.
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
📍 Local Insights
🌮 Signature Tacos Variety: Try cabeza, cachete, and tripas for authentic Mexico City flavors not commonly found elsewhere.
🌶️ Salsa Bar Advantage: Customize your tacos with three distinct salsas plus fresh toppings like radishes, onions, and cilantro.
⏱️ Visit Off-Peak: Arrive before lunch rush to avoid lines and get your tacos swiftly, often ready before you sit.
💵 Cash Tips Appreciated: Staff doesn't require tips but cash is welcome and appreciated for their attentive service.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Lilly's Taqueria is highly praised for authentic, flavorful street tacos and fresh salsas, with fast service and generous meat portions. While some note occasional dry asada or stiff tortillas, and a rare unfriendly interaction, the majority celebrate its quality and value.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
From The preserve
Standout Dishes
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The Selection
Accommodations
Course Stats
Angler’s Offerings
What You'll Find
Tacos de Cabeza, Cachete (Cheek), Lengua (Tongue), Tripas (Tripe), Adobada, Asada, Chicken Fajita, Salsa Bar, Mexican Sodas, Veggie Tacos
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, seating, and restroom facilities are available to accommodate guests with disabilities.
