If there’s one thing Southern California does best, it’s tacos—and during SoCal Taco Week (April 19–26, 2026), Santa Ana is right at the center of the action.
This weeklong celebration pays homage to everyone’s favorite handheld masterpiece, bringing together top taquerías, restaurants, food trucks, and pop-ups across Los Angeles and Orange County. And if you’re looking for bold flavors, cultural authenticity, and creative twists, Santa Ana is a must-visit destination for taco lovers.
What is SoCal Taco Week?
Think of SoCal Taco Week as Restaurant Week—but dedicated entirely to tacos.
From April 19 through April 26, participating restaurants will feature exclusive taco specials and combos priced at $5, $10, $15, and $20, available for dine-in, takeout, or delivery depending on the location.
This invite-only event highlights the best tacos in Southern California, celebrating everything from traditional street tacos to inventive, modern creations. It’s also your chance to build your own taco tour and vote for your favorites in the Golden Taco Awards, including:
- Best Street Taco
- Best Fish Taco
- Best Specialty Taco
It’s a community-powered celebration where taco lovers crown the winners.
Why Santa Ana is a Taco Lover’s Paradise
Santa Ana is at the heart of Orange County’s taco culture, where tradition, creativity, and community come together in every bite. Known for its rich culinary roots and dynamic food scene, the city offers an unforgettable taco experience that reflects its deep connection to Mexican heritage.
From classic street tacos served on freshly made tortillas with house-crafted salsas to modern interpretations featuring slow-cooked brisket, pork belly, and vibrant plant-based ingredients, Santa Ana’s taquerías and restaurants showcase the full spectrum of flavor and innovation.
During SoCal Taco Week, this culinary energy takes center stage, making Santa Ana a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience some of the best tacos in Southern California.
Santa Ana Restaurants Participating in SoCal Taco Week
Here’s where to go in Santa Ana to experience some of the best taco specials during the event:
Tacompadre
Tacompadre is bringing the heat as a contender for both Best Street Taco and Best Specialty Taco.
SoCal Taco Week Special:
- Taco Chingón Plate – $12
Two tacos campechanos (suadero with chorizo) served on handmade heirloom blue corn tortillas with rice and beans. This dish combines tender brisket-style suadero with rich, flavorful chorizo for a bold and satisfying bite.
Casa Ramos
Casa Ramos delivers a classic Mexico City-inspired experience with a combo that pairs tacos and drinks perfectly.
SoCal Taco Week Special:
- Mexico City Trio Taco Combo with 16 oz Draft Beer or House Margarita – $20
A full-flavored combo that brings together traditional taco favorites with your choice of refreshing beverage.
Lola Gaspar
Known for its elevated take on Mexican cuisine, Lola Gaspar offers both hearty and plant-based options that don’t compromise on flavor.
SoCal Taco Week Specials:
- Brisket Suadero Taco – $6
Prime-grade brisket slow-cooked in beef tallow and dried chorizo, served on a flour tortilla with pickled white onions, cilantro, and smoked tomato salsa. - Carrot Al Pastor Taco – $5
A vibrant plant-based option featuring adobo-roasted carrots on a blue corn tortilla with pickled onions, cilantro, and smoked tomato salsa.
Build Your Own Taco Tour in Santa Ana
One of the best parts of SoCal Taco Week is the chance to explore multiple spots and create your own taco crawl.
Start in Downtown Santa Ana, where you can walk between restaurants, discover hidden gems, and experience the city’s buzzing food scene. Mix and match traditional taquerías with modern eateries to get the full spectrum of flavors.
Pro tip: Come hungry and bring friends so you can try more tacos across different locations.
Support Local Restaurants
SoCal Taco Week is more than just a food event—it’s a chance to support local businesses that make Santa Ana’s culinary scene so special. Whether you dine in, grab tacos to go, or order delivery, every bite helps uplift the community.
Plan Your Visit to Santa Ana
Make a day (or weekend) out of your taco adventure. While you’re here, explore:
- Local art galleries and murals
- Boutique shopping in Downtown Santa Ana
- Craft breweries and cocktail bars
- Cultural attractions like museums and theaters
Santa Ana offers the perfect mix of food, culture, and creativity—making it an ideal destination during SoCal Taco Week.
Don’t Forget to Vote
After tasting your way through Santa Ana, cast your vote in the Golden Taco Awards and help crown the best tacos in Southern California.
Ready to eat your way through Santa Ana?
Plan your visit during SoCal Taco Week (April 19–26, 2026) and discover why this city is one of the top taco destinations in Orange County.