Lilly’s Taqueria offers an authentic Mexican taco experience with fresh tortillas and a focus on gourmet ingredients like beef cheek, tongue, and tripe.
The casual, fast-paced counter service pairs with a popular salsa bar and accommodates dine-in, takeout, and outdoor seating. Known for quality and speed, it’s a local favorite in Santa Barbara.
What to Expect:
🌮 Gourmet tacos with cuts like beef cheek, tongue, tripas
🌶️ Extensive salsa bar for customization
🍽️ Casual counter-service with outdoor seating options
🛍️ Takeout and dine-in available; no reservations required
Important Information:
Credit/debit/NFC mobile payments accepted
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, seating, and restrooms
Free parking with some difficulty finding spots on street and lot
Reservations not accepted; expect quick service and turnover
Highly recommended for an authentic, no-frills taco experience that locals and tourists enjoy alike.
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
🌮 Four Tacos Ideal: Regulars suggest 4 tacos per person for a satisfying meal without overdoing it.
🌶️ Salsa Bar Boosts Flavor: The topped salsa and toppings bar lets guests customize heat and zest freely.
🛍️ Quick Turnover: Despite lines during peak hours, ordering moves fast due to efficient counter service.
🍽️ Must-Try Cuts: Don’t miss beef tongue (lengua), marinated pork (adobada), and the cabeza—the highest-rated specialties.
Review Sentiment
.svg)
Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Lilly’s Taqueria is beloved for its authentic, flavorful tacos, standout cuts like lengua and adobada, and a fantastic salsa bar. Guests appreciate the fast service, casual vibe, and fair prices. Some note a lack of air conditioning and occasional difficulty finding parking, but overwhelmingly reviews highlight freshness and value.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
From The preserve
Standout Dishes
Go For
The Selection
Accommodations
Course Stats
Angler’s Offerings
What You'll Find
Beef Cheek Tacos, Tripe Tacos, Tongue Tacos, Adobada Tacos, Cabeza, Tripas, Lip, Lengua Tacos, Radishes, Authentic Mexican Tacos
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restrooms, and seating provide ease of access for guests. The flat entryways and accessible facilities ensure comfort for all customers.
