Introduction
Ever find yourself near Ontario, California, yearning for the vibrant flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine? Forget the same old fast-food tacos; Ontario might just surprise you with its rich and diverse collection of taquerias, restaurants, and hidden culinary gems that capture the heart of Mexican gastronomy. Nestled in Southern California, Ontario boasts a surprisingly strong Mexican cultural influence reflected brilliantly in its food scene. The deliciousness spans from family-run establishments to modern interpretations of classic recipes.
This article serves as your personal guide to navigating the incredible Mexican food in Ontario, California. We will take you on a tasty journey, highlighting some of the must-try restaurants, from unassuming neighborhood spots known only to locals to well-regarded cantinas that push the boundaries of Mexican culinary creativity. So, ditch the bland and embrace the bold; Ontario offers a Mexican food adventure for every palate, promising an unforgettable culinary experience. Get ready to explore the true taste of Mexico, right here in Ontario.
Tacos and Taquerias – The Cornerstone
No exploration of Mexican food in Ontario, California, would be complete without a deep dive into the world of tacos. Tacos, the quintessential Mexican street food, are more than just a dish; they are a celebration of flavors, textures, and tradition. Fortunately, Ontario delivers with an impressive variety of taquerias that showcase the artistry of this simple yet iconic dish.
Tacos Mi Pueblo: A Taste of Home
Located on Holt Boulevard, Tacos Mi Pueblo is a local favorite known for its authentic flavors and warm, welcoming atmosphere. This family-run taqueria exudes a genuine sense of home, where the aromas of simmering meats and freshly made tortillas fill the air. The ambiance is casual and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner with friends and family.
But the real magic of Tacos Mi Pueblo lies in its incredible selection of tacos. The carne asada is a standout, featuring tender, marinated steak grilled to perfection and served on warm, pliable tortillas. The al pastor is another must-try, with its savory, marinated pork slow-cooked on a vertical spit and shaved into succulent, flavorful slices. But no trip to Tacos Mi Pueblo is complete without trying their carnitas. These are crispy and melt-in-your-mouth tender pork tacos that are truly unforgettable. The secret, locals swear, is in their homemade salsas, each offering a unique blend of heat and flavor that perfectly complements the tacos. From the mild and tangy pico de gallo to the fiery habanero salsa, there is a salsa for every preference. The freshness of the ingredients combined with the authentic preparation methods makes Tacos Mi Pueblo a true gem in Ontario’s Mexican food scene.
Taqueria La Tapatia: A Fixture in the Community
Taqueria La Tapatia is a well-established taqueria on Mountain Avenue, famous for the amazing tacos. This bustling establishment offers a classic taqueria experience, with a lively atmosphere and a focus on high-quality ingredients. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by the tantalizing aroma of grilled meats and the sounds of sizzling fajitas.
La Tapatia is renowned for its generous portions and affordable prices, making it a popular choice for students and budget-conscious diners. The menu features a wide range of taco fillings, from the classic carne asada and al pastor to the more adventurous lengua (tongue) and cabeza (head). The tacos are served on freshly made corn tortillas, ensuring an authentic and satisfying experience. A unique aspect of La Tapatia is its emphasis on using traditional cooking methods, which imparts a distinctive flavor to the tacos. The meats are marinated in a secret blend of spices and slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in tender, flavorful, and unforgettable tacos. Don’t forget to try the agua frescas. La Tapatia offers various flavors like horchata and jamaica. The drink selection provides a refreshing accompaniment to the spicy flavors of the tacos.
Casa Orozco Mexican Restaurant: A More Refined Take
For a more upscale taco experience, Casa Orozco Mexican Restaurant offers a modern and sophisticated take on traditional Mexican cuisine. The restaurant is situated on Inland Empire Boulevard. Casa Orozco provides a more refined atmosphere with a stylish decor.
While their menu features a wide range of Mexican dishes, their gourmet tacos truly stand out. The restaurant’s creative chefs experiment with innovative flavor combinations and high-quality ingredients, elevating the taco experience to a new level. Patrons can sample the shrimp tacos with a spicy mango salsa or the vegetarian tacos with grilled vegetables and queso fresco. Casa Orozco also boasts an impressive tequila selection, making it the perfect place to sip on a handcrafted margarita while enjoying a delicious plate of tacos. The combination of creative cuisine, stylish ambiance, and a well-stocked bar makes Casa Orozco a must-visit destination for taco lovers seeking a more upscale experience.
Ontario’s taco scene is truly something special, offering a wide range of flavors and experiences to suit every taste and budget. From the authentic, family-run taquerias to the more innovative and upscale establishments, there is a taco for everyone in this vibrant city.
Beyond Tacos: Exploring Other Mexican Dishes
While tacos are undoubtedly the cornerstone of Mexican cuisine, the culinary landscape extends far beyond this iconic dish. Ontario boasts a wealth of Mexican restaurants that offer a diverse and exciting range of traditional dishes, each with its own unique flavors and textures.
El Farolito Restaurant: A Pozole Paradise
El Farolito Restaurant, located on Euclid Avenue, has become a local institution for its exceptional pozole. Pozole, a hearty and flavorful soup traditionally made with hominy, meat, and a variety of toppings, is a staple of Mexican cuisine, and El Farolito has perfected the art of creating this comforting dish.
The secret to El Farolito’s pozole lies in its rich and flavorful broth, which is simmered for hours with a blend of spices and herbs. The hominy, a type of dried corn, is cooked until tender and plump, adding a satisfying texture to the soup. The meat, typically pork or chicken, is slow-cooked until it’s incredibly tender and flavorful. What sets El Farolito apart is the incredible array of toppings they offer, allowing diners to customize their pozole to their liking. From shredded cabbage and radishes to diced onions, cilantro, and lime wedges, the toppings add a burst of freshness and flavor to each spoonful. It’s definitely a dish everyone should sample in Ontario.
Los Jarritos: Mastering the Art of Mole
Mole, a complex and flavorful sauce made with a blend of chilies, spices, chocolate, and nuts, is a true culinary masterpiece. Los Jarritos, situated on Mission Boulevard, has garnered a reputation for serving some of the best mole in Ontario, showcasing the depth and complexity of this traditional sauce.
Los Jarritos specializes in mole poblano, a classic Oaxacan mole with over thirty ingredients, including different kinds of dried chilis. Their sauce is slow-cooked in house with love. The mole is rich, earthy, and slightly sweet, with a subtle hint of chocolate that balances the spiciness of the chilies. Los Jarritos serves its mole with chicken or enchiladas, allowing diners to savor the sauce’s rich flavors. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful mole, and warm tortillas makes for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Las Brasas: The Enchilada Experts
Las Brasas Mexican restaurant is one of the best places for enchiladas. Their red sauce is bold and smokey. The tortillas used are fresh and homemade. The fillings vary between beef, chicken, and cheese. They offer all kinds of tasty drinks and sides as well.
Drinks and Desserts
Las Margaritas
Try the various flavored margaritas. You can’t go wrong with mango! Also order churros for dessert. The churros come with chocolate sauce and are a perfect after-dinner snack.
Teresas
For a traditional agua fresca you can visit this shop. They have various dessert options like flan.
La Michoacana
For delicious micheladas and tres leches cake this place is a must-visit.
Finding hidden gems and best values
For budget-friendly Mexican food, check out the numerous food trucks parked around Euclid Avenue and Holt Boulevard. They often offer authentic tacos, tortas, and quesadillas at unbeatable prices.
Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and explore the residential neighborhoods of Ontario. Here, you’ll find family-run restaurants that offer some of the most authentic and affordable Mexican food in town. Ask the locals for their recommendations! They often know about hidden culinary gems that are not listed in any guidebook.
Conclusion
Ontario’s Mexican food scene is a vibrant and diverse tapestry of flavors, traditions, and culinary innovation. From the authentic tacos at Tacos Mi Pueblo to the complex mole at Los Jarritos and the exquisite enchiladas at Las Brasas, there is a Mexican dining experience to suit every taste and budget. So, the next time you’re in Ontario, skip the chain restaurants and dive into the authentic flavors of Mexico. Explore the hidden gems, try the local favorites, and let your taste buds be transported to the heart of Mexican gastronomy. Ontario’s Mexican food will pleasantly surprise you and keep you coming back for more. You will enjoy the unique flavors of Mexico right in the heart of Southern California.
