Maria's Tacos

Open

Closed

$

$$

🌮 Mexican

Isla Vista

fast-casual

4.7
Authentic taco spot serving homemade tortillas and fresh fillings with friendly service in casual Isla Vista surroundings.

$

$$

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fast-casual

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Maria's Tacos

Isla Vista

$

Savor fresh, handmade tortillas and flavorful tacos with friendly service in casual Isla Vista. Delivery, takeout, and dine-in available.

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About
4.7
(
35
)

Maria's Tacos offers authentic Mexican fare with standout handmade tortillas and a flavorful variety of tacos, including fan favorites like steak and fish. The casual setting invites college students and locals alike to enjoy quick bites, dine-in, takeout, or delivery crafted with genuine care.

What to Expect:

    🌮 Homemade tortillas and fresh taco options
    🍽️ Casual and friendly atmosphere popular among college students
    🚗 Delivery, takeout, and dine-in service options
    💳 Accepts credit, debit, and NFC mobile payments

Important Information:

    Open daily with varied hours, closing earlier Sundays
    Free street parking available nearby
    Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, and seating
    Reservations not accepted; walk-ins only

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

🌮 Taco Variety: Try the shrimp taco, a favorite often recommended by locals alongside the classic steak taco.

🌯 Large Portions: Burritos here are notably hearty—come hungry or plan to share.

🕒 Visit Off-Peak: Mid-morning to early afternoon on weekdays tends to be less busy, ideal for quicker service.

💳 Payment Flexibility: Most digital and card payments accepted; no cash-only worries.

⏰ Hours

Monday: 9:30 AM–9:30 PM

Tuesday: 9:30 AM–9:30 PM

Wednesday: 9:30 AM–9:30 PM

Thursday: 9:30 AM–9:30 PM

Friday: 9:00 AM–10:00 PM

Saturday: 9:00 AM–10:00 PM

Sunday: 10:30 AM–9:00 PM

👉 Best For

Casual dining, solo dining, college students, quick bites

Maria's Tacos

6545 Pardall Rd
,
Isla Vista
,
CA
93117

Review Sentiment

Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Maria's Tacos is celebrated for its authentic homemade tortillas, flavorful tacos, and friendly, welcoming service. Guests especially appreciate the casual vibe and generous portions. Some minor criticisms include occasional cleanliness concerns and isolated negative interactions, but overwhelmingly reviews praise the food quality and the personable owner.

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

Steak Taco, Fish Taco, Quesabirria, Al Pastor Marinated Pork, Taco De Mole Shredded Chicken, Gordita, Guacamole, Vegetarian options

📆 Best Times to Visit

Visit on weekdays mid-morning to early afternoon for lighter crowds and faster service; Fridays to Sundays see peak dinner hours with higher busyness.
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