Taco María
Chef Carlos Salgado's Michelin-starred Alta California tasting room reimagining heirloom Mexican cooking with Orange County produce and house-nixtamalized corn.
Why It Stands Out
The Michelin-starred Mexican tasting menu that put OC fine dining on the national map — Chef Salgado's nixtamal program is among the country's finest.
What locals say about Taco María
Locals love itTaco María is celebrated as a transformative leader in Alta California cuisine, revered for its Michelin-starred tasting menus and masterful use of heirloom corn. Though its original Costa Mesa location closed in 2023, the local community remains deeply devoted to its sophisticated flavors and intimate, dinner-party atmosphere.
LA Times“A defining restaurant that changed what Mexican food in Southern California could be.”
Eater LA“A Michelin-starred champion of Mexican American heirloom corn and regional cooking.”
Yelp“Innovative flavors and the best tortillas you will ever eat.”
AI summary of recent local reviews and community sentiment, updated July 2026. Tap a source to read the reviews.
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About Taco María
🎭 Atmosphere
Warm, modern, family-feel
✅ Good For
📋 Reservations
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