North Shore Tacos
54-296 Kamehameha Hwy, Hauula, HI, 96717
North Shore Tacos Menu
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Visit below restaurant in Hauula for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Hauula for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Hauula for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
54-296 Kamehameha Hwy
Hauula, HI, 96717 - Phone (808) 293-4440
- Website https://www.northshoretacos.com
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :11:00 am - 9:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : No
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : Free
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : No
Caters : No
Categories
Mexican Cuisine
If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.
Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.
Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.
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Crystal C.
Pros: Great meal! The boyfriend had the fish tacos, I had the sweet pork nachos, and our friend got his usual chicken quesadillas. There was plenty of parking. Cons: I got this pineapple drink because you can drink it directly out of the pineapple. It was really gross and pulpy. Although not exactly rude, the guy at the counter also wasn't very helpful.
(4)Chris P.
Best food we had on the North Shore. Incredible fish tacos, very friendly staff and cool spot. Highly recommended.
(5)Ramon B.
As I've said numerous times I'm a regular for a reason
(5)Angie P.
Awesome! Fabulous food, great service - I wish we were here longer and could eat here more!!!!!!
(5)Amanda B.
We had the pork nachos, beef burrito, and one fish one shrimp taco. All were amazing. The rice and brown beans were awesome, the guy at the till was very helpful and let us try the lemonade (which we bought) and the desserts (which we tried to buy but were sold out). Very friendly, clean and fresh ingredient meals. Highly recommend.
(5)Kim G.
If I said, "I went to Cafe' Rio (or Taco Del Mar) and got you some food", you probably wouldn't even question me. The food was good, but it was extremely familiar right down to the foil containers it's served in. However, the ginger lemonade was life-changing. We went to this location, but they also have a food truck in Hale'iwa
(3)Estevan G.
I tried to like this place since not many places offer the variety of foods that they offer. They just couldn't deliver on any of the base points that makes someone want to return to their establishment. First I'll start off by saying that the pricing is a tad high for what you are getting; and don't be going in a small group cause that easily adds up to be one large bill for food you'll leave less than happy with. Their chips are extremely stale, the beans have no flavor, and same goes for the rice. You also pay 12 dollars for two tacos that contain a few pieces of shrimp on what taste like a store bought tortilla. Secondly if your going to claim to have the best fish tacos try not to bury the fish with lettuce like its a body you just killed. I came in with high expectations and left with "well it was a little bit better than a Taco Bell" realizations. Last I just want to finish that my encounter with the establishment also included finding a plastic tip in my food that left me not wanting to return to the location. Even after bringing it to their attention they just brushed it off like it was no big deal. They might have had at one time amazing tacos but as of now I feel it's not worth the trip or the money. Since you could probably make better ones at home.
(1)Beth H.
A little spendy, but so is everywhere else. Loved the green surf sauce, homemade hot sauce is awesome! We had the steak nachos (which had a few pieces of fat, would not get the steak again, wasn't worth the price), fresh fish tacos were good, and the sweet pork burrito. The woman working the counter was AWESOME! She took time with each customer to explain the menu, let us taste each dessert and drinks. We got the strawberry lemonade and chocolate mousse.
(5)Rachel C.
Tacos and flan were great! We were given samples of all the desserts by the sweet girl at the counter. All were very yummy. The pineapple tiki is not to be missed. Pineapple blended with ice, and put back into a pineapple for you to dying. Amazing!
(5)Lara W.
Pretty damn tasty fish tacos. Not the best I've had (I am from California and also make my own fish tacos that are pretty killer), but this cute little spot does well and their finished product is flavorful. I did like the green sauce and the hot sauce that they had to accompany the tacos, which had the right balance of fish to veggies. Also, their house made salsa was mild but had a great tomato flavor. I believe they serve whatever fish they get fresh (my tacos were Ahi) and they seem to know what they're doing so you'll get no complaints from me. Oh-and to the lady who thought the pork was too sweet?? You're the lady who folks roll their eyes at and sigh. Seriously-the pork they make is delicious. Oh, btw...anyone bitching about the cost shouldn't bother because locals and tourist's know that the cost of food over here is pricey. Deal with it. This place works and I'd happily recommend it to family and friends.
(4)Amy D.
North Shore Tacos.. the name says it all. This is North Shore style "Mexican" food, and not authentic at all. The people there are pretty nice, but it can take them a while to make the food, even though the restaurant wasn't packed. We came in two days in a row (not our choice..) and got the Fish Tacos one day ( yelp.com/biz_photos/nort… ) and the Super Carne Asada Burrito ( yelp.com/biz_photos/nort… ) the next day, both to go. The fish tacos didn't have much flavor, and the fish pieces were really small. The super burrito was also very bland, and not very good. The parking is easy here since there weren't a lot of customers both times we came. However, the lot is shaped strangely, and it could be difficult to get in and out if it gets crowded. At least there is a convenience store across the street to browse while waiting for your food, and also a supermarket in the lot next door, since our orders took over 15 minutes on both days. At least they have a TV on, but it's always showing something surfing related. If you're on vacation to Hawaii, I would highly recommend NOT eating any Mexican food here, since both places I've been were not very good.
(2)Genie B.
We stopped here for lunch because my hubby read good things about it. The 2-fish taco plate with a small side of rice and beans was $13 a plate. The tacos were ok, but disappointing, after having such high expectations. It wasn't bad, it just didn't live up to the hype.
(3)Phillip N.
I really liked this place! The food was a great price and the quality was excellent. I tried a Pork Burrito and a quesadilla. I was a big fan of both. My wife and I split a Pineapple drink that they made inside of a pineapple and it was fun! Their deserts are great. It is hard to save room but try to. The service is your typical slow Hawaiian service. No one is in a hurry here!
(5)Fran A.
Stopped by for lunch after visit to north shore with two teens. Got the cheese quesadillas, pork quesadillas, fish and chicken tacos. The crowd said it was a 3-4 star experience at best. It was good. Flavorful. Good sized portions. Nice help. No ambiance. No beer.
(3)Annie L.
Totally overrated and a tourist trap. Tacos were expensive and I'm not sure what kind of fish they use but it wasn't all that great. Their famous sauce was ok, nothing to brag about. I'm not comparing this to Mexican food on the mainland. I'm comparing it to other tacos places I've eaten on the island. I've had better fish tacos and burritos in town. This place isn't bad, it's just too overrated to be called #1 fish tacos. And for the price, it's totally not worth it. I'm really disappointed cause we drove from town for this. So only 2 stars for the good desserts and friendly service. Sorry North Shore Tacos....just my honest opinion.
(2)Melissa B.
Amazing taste! Very clean! Great staff! They were friendly and very helpful! Also super fast! The bathrooms were clean! It's all open so a great breeze! Pretty cheap! Me and my girl shared a Plate and it was the perfect amount!
(5)Steronimo G.
Talk about effective advertisement - No. 1 fish taco sign drew us in. Unfortunately, the sign also drew an entire tour bus of college kids. But I was in the mood for a good fish taco - and it did not disappoint. Ahi was the fish of the day for the taco. It was nicely complemented with sort of a cilantro sour cream dressing for the taco. Tasted better than it sounds. Although not cheap, good for a North Shore lunch.
(4)Kerry n Tony L.
Good tacos and food seems fresh, I keep coming back ^_^
(5)Evan F.
If you're looking for authentic Mexican food then you're out of luck. If you're looking for something along the lines of Chipotle, Baja Fresh, or Cafe Rio, then North Shore Tacos (formerly Surfin' Tacos) will be your closest bet on Oahu. Let me start off with the positives. North Shore Tacos has a really nice vibe. It's clean, open, and spacious. Plus, it has a cool mural of Laie Beach Park on the wall. In addition, the portions are larger. They offer Mexican Coca Cola as well as horchata, jamaica, and other hispanic drinks. On the negative side of things, North Shore Tacos is expensive. In their defense, though, everything is expensive in Hawaii. But then I'd have to say the food is inconsistent and just lacks a few food prep details that would really push it over the top ... namely the quality of their tortillas and chips. With all this said, I feel two stars is a fair assessment because it is Hawaii and it is a nice option to have along the north east side of Oahu. If it were the mainland, though, my assessment would be a lot more harsh. So if you're keen for something American-Mexican-ish, and aren't interested in nasty ole Taco Bell, then give North Shore Tacos a go.
(2)Lisa S.
Go to the one in HALEIWA! Food truck, the most amazing delicious fish tacos and burritos. We went twice! Sweet pork is divine. Fish tacos are better at the haleiwa locaion than in hauulu. then go to the lemonade truck in the same spot--best lemonade ever!
(5)Ron C.
Stopped by with my wife. We shared Steak Beach Burrito and Fish Tacos. The burrito was quite good but the tacos were fabulous. Will most likely visit again before we leave town in a week. Very friendly staff. They offered free samples of different homemade lemonades which my wife ended up ordering and desserts which we declined for now. Good place for lunch when on windward shore of Oahu.
(4)Jamie W.
My husband and I ordered from the taco truck in Haleiwa this evening and I think I could eat this food for every meal for the rest of my life. The truck is located right next to the Sea Shell Shop and the Hula Dog truck. They have a few picnic tables with umbrellas outside. I had Ono tacos and they were the best fish tacos ever. The fish was cooked perfectly. Spicy and flavorful and the surf sauce is amazing. My husband ordered an Ono quesadilla. He said it was the best quesadilla he's ever had. Hawaii is expensive, but I'd pay $10 for 2 fish tacos from this place before is spend it anywhere else. I think I'm going to have dreams about those tacos. It's great food to end a day at the beach. We'll be back often.
(5)Jim G.
This is for the food truck- Flour tortilla and lettuce instead of corn tortilla and cabbage. I thought this was messed up but took a bite and holy cow. The homemade pico de gallo and tomatillo sauce were outrageous. The fish was fresh and 'chared' well. Everyone was ordering one to try and would finish it and go back for another. Awesome place.
(5)Michael M.
I agree with the reviews and word of mouth praise. This place is good. The fish tacos were great. The nachos were enough for two of my kids. And I want the recipe for their sauce. Great food. Update: got a recipe for the sauce that may not be theirs, but it comes pretty close.
(5)Jamie W.
I'm not sure what to say here. This place came highly rated. The exterior is a little sketchy. The interior seating area is dirty and has lots of flies. Then, there's the long wait, and I mean long, after ordering while you wait with the flies for your food. But, the fish tacos and quesadillas were pretty exceptional. I could have gone for a little more fish and a little less lettuce, though.
(3)Sergio M.
Staying right up the street from this place we hit up twice and both times it was amazing! The homemade red sauce goes great with all the plates. The chicken quesadilla plate was good with their green creamy sauce the shrimp tacos were delicious. They have a catch of the day plate and we got the sword fish tacos and they were amazing. Skip the fountain drinks and try their ginger lemonade it pairs great with any of their dishes, loved this place and you will too! Plus it's right next to the local grocery store, longs drugs store and another local favorite Papa Oles!
(5)Marc M.
Amazingly good quality, variety and flavor! Best food on the North Shore!
(5)Geoff K.
Surfin' Tacos keeps it simple. The tacos here are what tacos would like like if I made them my self. No flash, pizazz, just plain tacos. I can make good tacos and so can Surfin' Tacos. The employees are super friendly here. Surfin' Tacos does customer service right. MEXICAN COKE!!!! - They have it. This is the only Mexican restaurant I've encountered that sells it.
(4)Andrew C.
Was good huge prawns just a little too garlicky for me and also plan on a wait but overall not bad.
(3)Rodrigo D.
This place has great food at a great location! Nothing like a tasty healthy meal after an afternoon surfing session.The staff is friendly, and the desserts are delicious.
(5)Terry F.
Dinner tonight. Fish taco's. The taco's were good, the fish meat solid and tasty. Plenty of lettuce and pico. They tasted really good, but I'm not doing cartwheels out the door exclaiming their wonderfulness. I'm glad we ate there, but I can't say they were the best fish tacos I have ever had. If you feel like fish tacos and your in the neighborhood, stop by.
(4)Dennis B.
All I wanted was a good fish taco. Great fish tacos in the San Francisco Bay area where I live but being on vacation in Hawaii you would think that you would be able to get a fresh fish great taco! Let me describe the fish taco. No cabbage just lettuce, I had to hunt for the actual fish which was small tiny pieces at the bottom and was definitely not fresh actually had a very tasty smelly scent! It had pieces of cheddar cheese also in it. That night for dinner I went with a friend to a an Italian seafood restaurant and had fresh blacken ahi tuna fish tacos with cabbage. They were absolutely amazing! The fish tacos North Shore tacos were also very expensive. I will not be returning to eat at this establishment again.
(1)Heidi K.
I've been here twice and loved it both times! The first time I got pork nachos. They serve a green sauce with it, and I have NO IDEA what it is but oh my god it is like Jesus in a cup. It's SO DELICIOUS AND GOOD. The second time I split steak nachos and a beef taco with my husband. Mmmmm both were so awesome! I would definitely stop here if I were you :)
(5)Michelle M.
Wow! This place has DELICIOUS FOOD! The pork and fresh fish tacos were surprising. Homemade lemonade and deserts also top off the experience. Will be back.
(4)Russel M.
4 1/2 Stars. The best Fresh Fish Taco's we've had on the Island! Two Fish Taco's , Beans & Rice for $10- isn't cheap but was well worth it. We are going back soon. We were just at Tiki's in Waikiki and their fishy Taco's weren't even close.
(4)Amy H.
Great mahi mahi fish taco. Other ppl in our group had non-fish like burritos which they also really liked. Great service and fun open air atmosphere.
(4)Denny P.
Two fish tacos. Extra surfing sauce on the side. Oh my. There's been two separate experiences when I ordered the same thing. One way ive been is phenomenal, the cook blackened the tuna just a little bit and its worth 5 stars for sure. The other the tuna is cooked, but just so, which is tasty, but doesn't blow me away. Also, I don't know what's in that surfin' / green sauce but it's delicious. Could be slurm, still wouldn't stop me.
(4)Jesse C.
Always drove by this spot and seen the sign, "#1 fish tacos." That's a mighty hefty claim. So on today's trip we stopped by on our way to Waimea bay and got a few of their #1s. After a short drive further down we ended up at Laie Point. Cuz you know we gotta jump off the ledge. And after play time we get hungry. I plowed the fish taco and washed it down with my strawberry lemonade. Good? Yes. Great? Yes. #1? I'm not sure. I say it was delicious and moist. But #1 seems like a stretch but then again who wants to visit #2 fish taco joint? Not me.
(4)JJ L.
I am my father's son -- I hate Mexican food. I like to think of Surfin' Tacos as the place to get Mexican food for people who hate Mexican food. My sister and her family live out near the North Shore so I take the occasional trek to visit them and enjoy the pristine views and beaches on that side of the island. Since moving back to Oahu almost a year ago I watched the once vacant building with metal roll-up garage doors and a ratty paint job transform into a rustic and breezy Mexican restaurant called Surfin' Tacos. With surf boards posted on the walls as decor and a mural of the Hau'ula coast painted behind the makeshift performance stage/space, you feel like throwing up a shaka and twirling your hair into dreds so you can become the next Kelly Slater super surfer. Actually, you just get really hungry thinking about and smelling your food being prepared. Here's the scoop: 1. CONSISTENT & FRESH -- I've eaten here several times for both lunch and dinner and the food is always consistent, tasty and fresh. The lettuce in the salad is always crisp and the grilled chicken/beef/shrimp is always hot and grilled to order. The beans and rice are always moist and never have the taste of sitting in a chafing dish or crock pot for days. 2. DELICIOUS -- the concoctions aren't cliche Mexican, but rather offshoots of typical Mexican dishes. I despise burritos, but the ones from Surfin' Tacos are jam-packed with your choice of meat, beans and rice, served with a side of shredded lettuce, sour cream, guacomole, and pico de gallo. There is a "special sauce" that's served with the salad that holds addictive properties -- I can only guess that it's a mix of guacomole and ranch. 3. AFFORDABLE -- if you're like me, it's always disgusting to have to pay more than 10 bucks for meat and vegetables wrapped up in a store bought tortilla wrap. The portions here are big enough to satisfy and share between two people and the prices are practical. This is the only location of Surfin' Tacos and that is the only downfall because it's so far out and away from town. But it's a big sigh of relief to have this restaurant in the neighborhood because it raises the bar of food quality and provides delicious grinds. I'd recommend stopping through here on your stay-cation and driving out to North Shore. 4 solid Yelp stars only because I have to save the 5th one for the Mexican restaurant that converts me into loving the food.
(4)Lori T.
We ate here on our way to the Polynesian Cultural Center. The person at the counter was very friendly and helpful. We loved our fish and carnitas tacos and the sides. We also tried the raspberry lemonade which was very tasty. I love fish tacos and these were very good!
(5)Sean S.
Great food I would comeback anytime. It is a little expensive for what it is but it is great food. Also there hot sauce is really good w/ the tacos. If your in the area stop by.
(4)Tawnie M.
I wish we wouldn't have stopped here. First impression, this place is filthy. I can only imagine what the kitchen looks like. The garbage was overflowing, tables were all dirty, there was food on the floor, etc, etc. Gordon Ramsay would have a fit. I asked the waitress if she could give me something to clean our table and she said she would come and do it. She finally came over and pushed a rag around the table but failed to remove the empty bottle that the previous customer had left. Then she set down the cleaning supplies on the next table over and disappeared. The food was not good at all. My husband and I both wanted shrimp tacos but we were told that they were out of both shrimp and fish. We ordered chicken instead. Their "grilled" chicken is not grilled at all, it's boiled and shredded. It was SO salty. The cook clearly doesn't taste his/her own food. The beans and rice, on the other hand, had almost no salt but way too much cumin. The one waitress in the place was inattentive and vanished after she delivered our food. We never saw her again. I warned another couple who arrived as we were leaving to look for a better option. I would NEVER eat here again.
(1)Jameson S.
Discalimer: Living in southern CA, Mexican food is aplenty, making it difficult to compare to mexican food out in Hawaii. If this was in California, it would be 2 stars. Surfin' Tacos is across the street from the place we are staying so we thought we would test it out. This place was descent to fill the belly, but sub-par compared our typical mexican food stops. She had: a chicken burrito and if we hadn't known we ordered chicken I would have guessed it had been a bean and rice burrito. The enchilada sauce over it was descent, but not enough kick for her liking. Overall okay if you aren't picky and don't mind a very americanized burrito. He had: the fish tacos which were made with grilled fish and came with sides of beans and rice. The beans and rice lacked flavor which was a bummer. The fish tacos tasted fresh, but didnt compare to the typical fried fish tacos with the mayo based sauce. They could have used some hot sauce to enhance the flavors. Can't say we would give them the title of "best fish tacos around" as they claim. Biggest bummer of them all is $25 later for these two items and a drink, their were no chips and salsa. All in all, a clean environment, friendly service, but based on the food we ordered I wouldn't add it to my must visit mexican food stops
(3)Tommy J.
One of the best fish tacos I ever had! Large portions made for two meals. A good place for simple foods in it's open air seating.
(4)Nathan W.
This place is excellent. Sweet pork and fish tacos are fantastic. Ginger lemonade is delicious. Great local place.
(4)Canvus G.
Wasn't really in the mood for fish tacos when my family was in the mood for fish. Thank god they had the shredded steak nachos! Super delicious along with their ginger lemonade!
(4)Sylvia F.
Saw this place a few weeks ago and finally ended up in the north shore again to check it out. Food is tasty, service was quick, and the open air space is nice. A friend got the Chicken Nachos (hefty serving) and I sampled their sweet pork taco (in a flour tortilla). The food tasted fresh and came with a pretty nice cream cilantro sauce of sorts. It's definitely a stop worth making if you're in Hau'ula, just to check it out and give them some business. For myself, I can cross another mexi place off the list but if I'm in the area and hungry i'll definitely stop by to try more of their fares. altho i did eat at luibuenos that night...!
(2)Krista G.
Best fish tacos on the North Shore, maybe on the entire island. Puts Killer Tacos and Cholo's to shame. We drive almost an hour to just eat here every month. Chill atmosphere, close to the beach, great service.
(5)Patty W.
We stopped by North Shore Tacos for a little lunch yesterday during the rainstorms. The staff are so welcoming and suggested we get the fish tacos. We ordered the fish and sweet pork tacos. Both were outstanding!! They come with a choice of beans and rice , do it' will fill you up. Definitely worth a stop!
(5)Alysia E.
I can't really give any stars for what I intended to review for this place because I ordered two fish tacos, the guy took our order we paid for them and waited...and waited some more. Shortly after, another couple tried to place an order when the guy said they had run out of food. Which made me wonder if that was the reason my tacos weren't ready yet. I waited another 15 minutes before asking politely what the hold up was. They had not only in fact ran out of food but, forgot that I'd placed an order and paid. They apologized and refunded my money and gave me a free desert and a sprite. That's all I have on this place
(2)One Hungry G.
I ordered the, apparently, "#1 fish tacos." I was very disappointed. The fish was chopped in bits and pieces and the green sauce overpowered everything. It was a very salty taco. The rice and beans inside the taco were actually very moist and tasty. .
(2)Johnny H.
AWESOME!! Loved this spot! Was on the north shore for a week and went here at least 3 times! Friendly employees and great bang for your buck!
(5)Megan V.
My husband, myself and our three kids love this place!!! I LOVE the green sauce and could drink it by the gallon LOL My husband loves the fish tacos and kids love just about everything else!! I have had tacos, burritos, nachos, and salads all smothered in green sauce and loved them all equally. I really love their sweet BBQ Pork or carne Asada. My only complaint is that it's an hour away and I can't go there more often!
(5)Daniel W.
They boast the #1 fish taco and they are spot on. It was they tastiest fresh fish taco I have ever had. I am here for a weeks vacation and I am staying 40 minutes away I happened to be in the area for the Polynesian cultural center it's about 5 before the entrance. I made it a point of stopping and it was a fantastic experience. The meals are roughly about $8-$10 each (fish being $10). I am going to make it a point to get back thee one more time before I leave the island.
(5)Dalia L.
Eh... definitely not the best fish tacos I've ever had. It's conveniently placed but aside from that. The customer service and quality of the food isn't that great.
(2)Maggie B.
I love this place! We come here all the time for a special treat. The salads are the way to go! They are big and filling. This place is a mix of Costa Vida and Cafe Rio if you are familiar with them. Mmmmm.
(5)Julia H.
I've tried this place twice and the second (and definitely last) time was really disappointing. Here's the low down: My husband and I decided to go out for dinner on a week night. I was excited since that meant no cooking for me! We got there and the place was completely empty, but I didn't mind since it was a week night. I ordered shredded beef tacos and my husband got a beef carnitas burrito with red sauce. Luckily, that's exactly what we wanted before we got there because we were told there was no chicken or fish. There was also only an option for red sauce instead of red OR green that night. But, wait...that's not all. Only option for beans was pinto-no more black AND no pico de gallo either. If you're running a business, shouldn't you know how much inventory to get?! Anyway, on to how the actual food tasted. My husband thought his burrito was just "okay" - he told me some of the beef was burnt. My tacos were pretty gross. I forgot to ask for corn instead of flour and they never asked me for the option so I ended up getting flour when my food came, but that was partly my fault. The meal comes with two tacos and a side of beans and rice. The taco also comes with this disgusting greenish sauce. The beef and lettuce were literally DRENCHED in it and all I could taste from it was the sauce. I felt really sick afterwards. All in all, we are never coming here again. I have to admit, the Dr. Pepper and guacamole were tasty though!
(1)Mandy A.
Friendly, but REALLY SLOW. The food was good
(3)Ed J.
Being from California I was thinking it was a Mexican taco shop. Actually its more of a Brazilian style rice and beans and tacos. Honestly the beans and rice were really bland and undercooked. I think beans should be soft when cooked not firm like out of a can. The fish was fresh but again quite bland. I just soaked everything in Tabasco to give it some flavor. Their salsa/hot sauce was also watered down as well. It was $11.45 for the combo. Drive down a little further there are other options.
(2)Natasha L.
Would have been great if we didn't have the best ever fish tacos at the farmers market. They will do if u are in the mood for a decent taco. Didn't care for the rice or beans.
(3)Michelle M.
I ate here a couple of times while working out in Hauula...there really isnt much out there, right? The customer service was great! Everyone was very helpful...the place was nice and clean. Looked like they were able ot have some events and performances so that seems pretty cool for the area. The food is why I was there and it was just meh... I guess I shouold start by saying that I don't really prefer Mexican food. Just something about it makes me think that it isnt really that great of a thing...Having said that, I have had great Mexican. This is sadly not great Mexican food. I had the pork burrito and I found the meat to be VERY VERY SWEET! WTH? Was it really supposed to be sugary sweet? I just couldnt understand it. The HOT sauce was so not hot...the rice and the beans were good tho...so I give em that. I guess I just didnt understand the sweetness. I was looking for a robust and zesty flavor but was disappointed by the level of sweetness in it's place. SMH...
(2)Greg S.
Joey, you're the man! Respect the amazing fish tacos and the sweet pork tacos are an island favorite preferred by Hawaiians, Tongans, Samoans, and now...LONG Islanders!
(5)Brian W.
If you want frozen fish tacos that take forever to reach your plate ... then this is the place! Our food took over an hour (despite the cashier indicating the food would take about 15 minutes) as we sat bored and freezing in complete silence....oh wait there was a 70's surfing movie to kill the time. Who knows what the other 3 employees were doing in the back - we'd see them from time to time going to the bathroom. The cashier would also disappear - I'm sure they were all struggling to defrost all the food that had just been ordered by my family and the other 3 families also sadly waiting. The atmosphere was dull and unfriendly staff (it was 6pm when we arrived on a Saturday night). Music would be nice. When the food finally arrived it looked as if I had ordered chicken tacos instead of the fish tacos. After picking through the mounds of lettuce - you'd think I had ordered a veggie taco, but nope an over cooked (thawed out) fish taco. The pork taco was just as bland with a watery sauce that ran right out the taco when you lifted it to your mouth. Chips should be offered for free during the long wait $4.50, really?! Would not recommend or return during future visits to Hawaii. Sunset Magazine must've had a good day or gone mad crazy 'cuz North Shore Taco is not the best, unless they were comparing it to the empty Koren BBQ restaurant across the street!
(1)Jay B.
Great little taco spot. Had the Shrimp Taco's...they were deliscious!!! Found out the secret sauce comes with all the Taco's though. Wouldn't go out of my way to go here, but the next time I'm on the North Shore I'm there!!!
(4)Rob F.
This place has the easy going laid back feel of the islands which in this case is a bad thing. Apparently they need more help here because the service was not quick but in fact very slow. No one should have to wait a half hour for a simple taco. I guess I came on particularly busy night. This place has a Cafe Rio feel to it without the fast service. I took one bite from someone who let me try their burrito. After waiting a half hour for my tacos I gave up and asked for my money back. Which they gave to me and they didn't even try to make good with me or give me my meal for free. Thanks for nothing!
(1)Jason Y.
Not very good. I am a big fan of Mexican food, yet Surfin Tacos can hardly be called Mexican. After giving the menu a quick glance, I decided on the fresh fish tacos. I asked if it came with rice and beans - as one would expect from a Mexican dish. The girl at the counter assured me the plate did indeed come with these items and I could choose between black beans and pinto beans. I told her I would like refried beans. I was then notified that the beans are not exactly refried. I asked her what she meant by this and she responded the beans were not mashed. Ok fine, but your rice is Spanish rice, no? Er, not exactly. I guess it is there own version of Spanish rice - without tomato! Wow, I thought this was supposed to me Mexican food. Anyway, I'll just have the fresh fish burrito. Now I know I am not eating Mexican food. The rice was white, and not cooked well; not to my taste anyway, and definitely not to what one would expect from good Mexican food. And the "pinto" beans I asked to have in my burrito were not pinto, but what appeared to be red kidney beans. But the bottom line, the burrito was ok. I ate it. The red sauce, or what should have been salsa rojo, that covered the burrito was not too good and I was surprised to find three black olive slices on top, nevertheless, the fillings were disappointing. I may be setting the bar high for a "surfin taco" Mexican joint in Hauula, but don't claim to be "Hawaii's Best Mexican Grill" and not even serve Mexican cuisine. One star because the price. I would have rated two but the plate killed a ten dollar bill. Although I would have preferred to have Mexican food worth the price I paid.
(1)Sarah G.
Husband and I stopped for fish tacos on our drive back from the North Shore. They might have tasted better to me had my husband not told me how disgusting the bathroom there was (he's from Cuba, and so when he tells me a bathroom is gross, I know it is BAD.) Ugh. That quickly squashed any desire I had to eat tacos. I still ate it and it was okay but I did find a big bone in one of my fish pieces. The rice and black beans that came with the tacos were cold and hard.
(1)Karen M.
Probably the best fish tacos we've ever eaten, and the four of us are from San Diego where they were invented! The price is $5 each, but don't let that keep you from buying them (like my husband did), and order two. You'll be sorry if you don't! And the hot sauce is HOT, and we loved it!!!
(5)A C.
I highly suggest the nachos with secret green sauce!! My girlfriend ordered that and I was jealous. The green sauce is delicious - savory, creamy, a bit tangy...We asked what was in it, but apparently it's a secret :) My shrimp burrito was solid but nothing to write home about. The shrimp was generous and grilled nicely, but the fillings were a bit boring. The actual eating area is cool, since one side is open-air (at least it was when I was there) and you can enjoy the weather. There appeared to be a performance area (a stage with drums) and flat screen TVs looped some footage of extreme sports... Next time I'm in the area, I'll be sure to try something with green sauce on it!
(3)O O.
I'm kicking in one extra star above A-OK because I think this place holds promise. Yes, it was a bit pricy and there was too much cumin in the rice but they do char grill their meat and fish. It makes a world of difference while calculating the umami factor. A lot of people don't realize the cost of doing business in Hawaii is prohibitive and I give props to those who take a stab. And one wouldn't think selling a seafood product in Hawaii would be costly. But it most definitely is. A little cutesy shack selling fish tacos near some of the world's most breathtaking beaches? It ain't cheap to operate, I'm speculating. The portions are just OK, not quite enough for a hungry surfer, per se. Two small soft shelled tacos of choice with black beans and rice for 9 dolla is about right, maybe they turn a light profit on that and the fish and meat portions are pretty small. Still you can taste the char broil on them and that's what makes this place a do over for me. It's near L and L, which on the day I went was doing less business than Surfin tacos. A puzzlement considering L n L is the go to for cheap eats. Mind you, L n L in town co-habitates with 2 large rats (see my previous review) but I still go there. Dang local that I is. So Surfin' Tacos does the pico de gaio delish and it adds that zingy punch to the mouthful of smoky, salty fish chunk-lettes. The beef is beefy tasting and the fish is not stink fishy, but fresh fishy good. So all of you Caliponi's (and if you don't know what this means, I'm alright with it) keep to your Mexicali opinions in your pie hole and let Surfin' Tacos do their thing. I'm absolutely sure that they are struggling to make ends meet while they kick out a decent (not great) plate of food for a moderate (not cheap) price. They can only improve. The locals wouldn't have it any other way.
(4)Tony G.
I stop by this place because I sow the huge sign says "# 1 Fish tacos" I would give them only one star but the girl behind the counter was very helpful and friendly. Anyways., they are still # 1 , bur from the end.
(2)Jessie W.
Expectations were exceeded. Truly, the best fish tacos I have ever had. It's their special sauce! My boyfriend had a fish chimichanga, which was the size of a small infant, and he ate it so quickly, the fork en route to his mouth was a blur. The only downside was the wait time, which was substantial. Especially considering it was late on a Monday night.
(4)Throw R.
Been here twice now (god knows why I went back :-/) and realize that it is mediocre at best. Nachos are best thing I've had there but weren't too good. Chips were stale, obviously some Costco bulk bag of chips or something. Very small portions of meat, so small that you almost think that they are gonna be like "jk homie!!". Total joke. Go here if you like burritos consisting of 80% rice 10% beans 8% tortilla 1% sour cream and 1% meat. Can't really see anyone actually giving this place a good review, but you never know. Only redeeming factor is that it's a pretty cool building and open air.
(2)Carey J.
I live on the opposite side of the island so I've only been there twice but it was sooo good, and more than I could eat.
(4)August A.
I've spent days thinking about a way to articulate an idea of taste for Surfin' Tacos and this is what I've come up with: White people, Mexican Food. Burritos are alright, mostly beans and rice rather than protein but I dealt with it. Truthfully, if I weren't as extremely hungry as I was that day (no food for 18hrs, jogging at 3am, and surfing@Pounder's 3pm), I would've drove from Laie to Waimanalo to get food from Sergs. It reminds me of a fast food version of Cholos. Service is great. Karaoke and Live bands are scheduled to start playing in Surfin' Tacos, so I expect the place to pick up. So as a last resort, yes Surfin' Tacos is excellent...
(3)Sharon H.
Good fish tacos you have to try at least that. I hate it when I go to Mexican place and the fish is deep fried. This place is fresh and not fishy. Seafood lovers know if it smells fishy then it wasn't fresh and deep frying it def covers that up. This is Mexican food with a Hawaiian twist. Sorry if it's not authentic enough for you but it's the north shore. If you have a big group order the Kalua pork nachos for the table while you wait for the rest of the food. I always go here when I have friends and family visiting from the mainland or just happen to be cruising around the island.
(4)Franco A.
No consistency, as every time we go, the amounts of food and taste in their sauces change. If it is busy it may take a while to your food. Overall good clean and inviting environment with live local music most weekends.
(2)Donna W.
We ordered Gnarly Nachos (with fish) and a Fish Burrito. Both items were amazing. The fish was seasoned perfectly and there was a lot of it. The staff was incredibly friendly as well. We will definitely be back!!!
(5)Bong R.
Just ate lunch here and ordered what the lady at the counter called "the best fish tacos in the North Shore". If this is the best fish taco the North Shore has to offer, then your better off getting a sandwich at Subway. Barely any fish in the taco, wasn't fresh, and I couldn't even tell how they cooked the fish. Already when walking in I noticed that the place wasn't exactly clean and well kept. Don't even bother using the restrooms. Gave the review a one star b/c the lady over the counter at least gave a smile.
(1)Christian W.
I love this new family restaurant, I'm not sure if I'll be going back to Taco Bell in Laie anytime soon because Surfin's Taco's burritos are simply awesome. It's nice to watch sporting events on their HD TV sets. The staff is very friendly. It's a nice place to relax in Hau'ula. I like the free and abundant parking. They are open for lunch and dinner. Closed on Sundays. - Good For Groups - Good For Kids - Take Out - Outdoor Seating
(5)Momo N.
First time we came here they had a gas leak and couldn't cook food. So I decided to try again. They claimed to have great fish tacos, but i was really feeling for nachos and ordered that. I ordered one with sweat pork and had sides of steak and chicken to try out the other meats they offered. Overall the meats were dry and the chicken had no flavor. The sweat pork was tough and needed a bit more savory flavor. The steak was also dry. They did include a side of the fish dressing which was unique and excellent. This must be what makes their fish tacos so good. I must try one next time. But for now their meats get very low ratings.
(2)melanie j.
This place was delicious! I had the shredded beef tacos and it was perfect. A regular size taco, full of (juicy!) meat and it was just perfect. Really hit the spot! Thank you North Shore Tacos!
(4)Will L.
Sweet pork is so good when touches your lips.... for real I Have had the sweet pork Nachos and the shrimp burrito.... Both very good.. Great atmosphere for the college scene....
(5)Stephanie B.
We came across this place when we were out riding around around one day & have gone back. The food is good. The portion sizes are average. They don't overstuff the items with meat but atleast what they do use is very tasty and real meat which is questionable is some places. The beans and rice are good but do not have a lot of taste (slight limetaste on the rice). Their guac and pico de gaio are very tasty. We have tried numerous items here (cheese quesadilla, pork quesadilla, pork tacos, pork burrito, and fish tacos) and we have had no complaints. If you have a big appetite and are really hungary, one serving might not fill you up. The food is a little pricey but let face it, it cost more to eat out in hawaii period.
(4)Sean K.
You're in Hawaii, where can you find a good taco? Look no further! Have eaten here 4 times, consistently good.
(4)Courtney T.
Mexican is by far my favorite food! My parents are in town for my graduation and we were driving along Kam hwy looking for a place to eat and stopped at Surfin' Tacos! It was really good! I got the veggie burrito with the green sauce and each dish comes with there special sauce on the side which was really good! My dad got the fresh fish burrito which he said was awesome but would have liked a little more fish. They have killer fresh lemonade. The food takes a little while but the people who work there are super friendly and it is worth the wait! I would definitely go back!
(4)Tiffany H.
Had one shrimp taco and one Ahi taco with black beans, rice and a cold Sangria flavored Jarritos Mexican soda. Was pretty good :)
(3)Farrah F.
After a long day of scuba diving and soaking up the sun on the North Shore, I was starving! There are a lot of places to stop on the way back to town and undecided to give North Shore Tacos a chance. They had a nice sign and I'm a sucker for advertising. Anyhow, parking was easy and there weren't 1000 tourists like at the shrimp trucks. The building is open air an totally appropriate for wet and sandy patrons. The service was polite and friendly and the food came out quick. Well, here's where it goes to pot! I could do a better job in my dorm room (not that I'm still in college and live in the dorm but you get the drift.). The black beans were plain...like not even salted. The rice had some flavor, but was dry. The tortillas were of the packaged variety. And my god! Did they forget the shrimp and fish? What a rip off! Basically, it was a lettuce and sauce taco with a few slivers of fish or shrimp. Next time, I'll try another place.
(2)Mark P.
Place looks like an old, run-down converted Wendy's or something with the front windows knocked out. But the service was friendly and the fish tacos fantastic! Thank goodness that Romy's Kukuku Shrimp had an hour plus wait (!) or we'd never have tried this place. We'll definitely be going back next time in town.
(4)Corey C.
Great salads and tacos! Got there too late for the fish tacos but the shrimp ones were great! Nothing else like it on the island!
(5)Lynne C.
I saw mixed reviews but my friends wanted to eat here. Food was very inconsistent. Everyone got sweet pork enchiladas. One came with red sauce instead of green. My friends' enchiladas had tons of meat and mine was almost all rice. The meat was pretty sweet for my taste but again, there wasn't much. Everyone's enchiladas were extremely light on the sauce. I would never go back.
(1)Maria D.
Ok. So we got lured in by the #1 fish tacos sign. I don't know why we stopped exactly, since we saw at least 5 other places that claimed the same. But boy were we glad we did. We literally just came from Giovannis shrimp truck so all we could eat was 1 fish taco....and it was delicious! The fish was perfect, lots of flavor and they put some green sauce on it that's amazing. I'd eat more if I had room. Will be back!
(5)Tina D.
I live in Kailua and have driven 40 minutes, one way, just to eat at North Shore Tacos. I tell all of my friends to stop there, too; everyone's glad they did and rave about their meals from North Shore Tacos, as well!
(5)Rob L.
The wife and I were driving around the windward side, looking for somewhere to eat that wasn't a truck. Not a lot of choices in the area, luckily we found this spot. We both had burritos, she had the chicken I had the shredded beef. I prefer a little more meat, a little less rice and beans, but I really liked my burrito and so did my wife. Glad we found this place. Chatted with one of the family who own the place, nice guy.
(4)L M.
Could be a good place. Problem is how little meat or fish they put in their servings. I had a friend who worked there. Very much wanting restaurants to succeed out here, I asked him to share this with the owners: That the meat/fish portions were so small. Owner response: "tell him to kiss my a**" It's such a small community. They should be careful with this type of thing. I hope they succeed. And grow up a bit.
(3)Deb L.
Only place we chose to eat at twice while on the island.
(4)Natalie W.
Very good. I had the steak salad. Steak was tender and delicious and whatever that dressing was, it was great!
(4)Tessa t.
so i had the single soft taco with grilled chicken... the bf had the two soft tacos (shredded pork) with beans and rice... their "special sauce" was very yummy! however, everything else was just....o-kay. the beans tasted like they were straight outta the can and the rice had no flavor. :( as for service, you just order at the counter and pick up your food when it's ready...so i can't really comment on how i felt about the service. the girl was friendly enough though. i do like how the place is open air...kinda like you're sitting out on the patio...just chilling.
(2)Jackson G.
The guys at Surfin Tacos do a pretty damn good job with their mexican food. The tacos are solid and the steak quesadilla is great. However, they are stingy with their salsa and need a real salsa bar to make it. My only complaint would be the logo. I think it's just a little bit racialist to assume that all tacos have mustaches.
(4)Brenda W.
Ordered the sweet pork burrito with a side of surf sauce and my husband ordered two shrimp tacos with rice and beans. We also added one drink and chips and salsa. Total was 25 bucks. Not cheap but not out of the ordinary for Hawaii. The burrito was good but was about 80 precent rice which doesn't bother me. Husband said the tacos were good. The surf sauce is really good. We'll eat there again mostly because we live close by.
(3)Olaf T.
I got the sweet pork burrito which had about a tablespoon of meat at best. They asked if I wanted their special surf sauce so I said yes thinking it was included. Turns out it was an extra 50 cents for about a tablespoon of what tasted like Ranch dressing. I asked for it to go, which he forgot so I had to ask again. the food was fresh but nothing special taste wise. They really fixed this place up creating a pleasant environment. It was originally a Kentucky Fried Chicken Restaurant back in the day. The cashier's young son was sitting on the counter where the food was served with his bare feet...kinda gross. There was also a man in line who kept shouting at cars that drove by. The initial crowds seemed to have faded. If I crave Mexican food, I'd prefer to drive to Kaneohe's El Mariachi, which is authentically Mexican.
(2)David S.
I tried a pork taco, fish taco and shrimp taco and they were all amazing. My son tried the shredded beef burrito and said that it too was delicious.
(5)Calin P.
My wife and i ordered the fish tacos special and fish burrito special. Really good tacos, a lot of flavor and plenty of fish inside. The fish burrito was not even close. We could not taste the fish because it was packed with beans and rice or maybe there was no fish at all. I would go back there for the fish tacos only.
(2)K C.
We stopped here going to our house we rented. Very good pulled pork tacos. cheap and they have a punch card, if u order 10 meals u get 1 free.
(4)Niels S.
Seeing as how I am a sucker for tacos that aren't made by a chain when I saw this place I decided to drop in and try it out. I got the steak tacos and I must say they were pretty good although the beans and rice that accompanied the taco were so-so. The dining area is nice and casual and is an open air joint. I would definitely eat there again.
(3)Garett J.
Nice place, been back once already. Excellent prices. Steak quesadilla, fish tacos, shrimp tacos, and green sauce are all wonderful. The chicken burrito and shrimp tacos were average. The atmosphere was perfect as was the customer service. Will be back again.
(4)Jay R.
The sweet pork burrito with red sauce was delicious! I grew up eating home cooked Mexican food so I feel like I have a good point of reference.
(5)JJ C.
Great Fresh Food! Had tacos and burritos with chicken, sweet pork and chicken. Was super.... Similiar to Chipolte's burritos. Prices reasonable compared with Honolulu prices. Shout out to Christian who took our order!
(5)Wajih A.
Ordered: 1. Chicken quesadilla 2. Tacos sweet pork/fish 3. Pineapple juice The quesadilla is out of this world. You can see and taste that all the ingredients are fresh. The green sauce is surprisingly good and the hot sauce is awesome. This is a must try restaurant in Oahu
(5)Stephanie W.
The only downside to this place was how expensive it was. I usually get the 2 taco+side dish for $10. I've been here four times, though, so I guess it's worth the cost to me! And I'm usually pretty cheap, so that's saying something. They push the fish tacos, which are pretty good, but the sweet pork tacos are absolutely to die for. Absolutely magic. I always order the 2 sweet pork tacos now instead of one pork and one fish, like I did the first time. The atmosphere here is pretty great too. It's open air and has a patio and sometimes there are roosters wandering around. That might sound like a negative, but honestly it's pretty cool to me and adds to the "rural" atmosphere of the surrounding area. The last time I was there one of the employees kept trying to shoo the rooster out, but as soon as she left he came right back in. It was pretty funny. Be sure to let them know if it's your first time because they will give you a ton of samples of their desserts and drinks! The only reason it's a 4 not a 5 star is because of the high price. If they would lower the price by a couple of dollars it'd be 5 star perfection. I would also probably eat there way more often and get quite fat, so maybe it's good that their prices are a little high, heh.
(4)Crystal B.
Far away from town and a bit of a drive to get to this place, but if there's ever was a reload trip well worth the food, this joint would be it. Plenty of open space and seating and a very inexpensive menu with nice flavor and island twist. Such an amazing find. When I get cravings and feel stuck in the hustle and bustle of Honolulu this is definitely the place that makes my taste buds tingle. Make it a day trip and an adventurer! Worth every bite.
(5)Brooke F.
Whenever my husband and I are up near north shore we stop in! Haven't been here since the new look..it must be working for them! When we used to come there was only ever one person there eating while we were.. Now there's an endless line out the door! Which it should be because they have the best fish tacos on island!! We always compare other places and they just fall short.. This place is always our number 1 fish tacos!!
(5)Emily M.
Tried this place out yesterday and everyone got something different. Two different burritos, chicken tacos, quesadilla, and salad, everyone was happy with what they received and the special sauce they add on is yummy. The soda machine was down but two people in our group got the pinnapple drink that came in an actual fruit. I'm not a fan, but everyone in the group that likes pineapple loved it. The actual restaurant is decent, nothing spectacular but the food was quick to come out as well. Overall we would definately eat there again.
(4)Edward I.
While driving aimlessly around the island, we came upon this place and was first very happy they had a restroom, so that was a star right there. Had the two surfin tacos, it was nice and wasn't dried up from cooking. The hotsauce on the side was pretty good and hot, I cooled off after having that. There's a passion fruit drink they had that I liked. Parking wasn't bad. I didn't get the chance to eat anything else, I would have been able to get a better measure of if I did.
(4)An T.
We stayed close by this place and saw it busy a few times. Reviews were decent so we decided to give it a go. Being on an island I opted for the fish tacos which the clerk assured me was grilled fish not battered fried fish. I didn't expect small tiny chunks of fish resembling tuna at best cat food at worst. Secondly there was so much salt on it, it was inedible. Unfortunately I had ordered it to go otherwise I would have gave it back right then and there so I didn't experience this tragedy until i got home.
(1)Scott P.
Ate here this week and found a razor blade in my taco. No joke. A straight up 2 inch long razor blade. Luckily I got distracted before taking my next bite or I never would have seen it. All they did was give me a new taco and explained that it had apparently fallen out of the pico de gallo dicing machine. Awesome. Thanks for almost making my mouth into a torture scene from the movie Saw. Never going back here as they are obviously at worst cannibals hoping for a gory slice of my tongue, gums, and lips or at best sadists hoping for a painfully bloody and violent taco eating show.
(1)Lu'isa T.
Just moved to the area and miss good mexican food this place is a good substitute but more of an American version.
(3)Israel F.
I came here on my 1st visit to North shore and the food was cooked great the fish tacos had awesome toppings and the house made Hawaiian pepper hot sauce is the best I wish they manufactured and sole in the mainland.
(5)Yessen A.
The most delicious steak quessadilas i've ever tried! Restroom was very clean but there were too many mosquitoes to sit outside. Very convenient place to pick a bite before heading to the Polynesian cultural evening show nearby.
(5)B. W.
First time here, love fish tacos and have had some of the best in San Diego and a few other areas of country. The fish tacos were very good, I would order them again as I would the pork tacos. On par with with others I've had, I wouldn't say they are the best however, they are very good, and I will return here to dine when I'm on the North Shore. Had a steak burrito to go, the flavor was good, and I liked the fact there wasn't much cheese at all on it so the flavor was good however, again I have tasted better, but they do a pretty good job. The chips and pineapple salsa were very good as well. Customer service was OK however, had to ask one of the servers there at least 3 times for covers for the salsa containers for takeout, almost as though she was totally disengaged. For first time customers, not impressive.
(3)Victor M.
Since I live on Oahu I have driven past this place on the weekends many times. I was skeptical to think that the tacos could be any good or the food in general. So this past Saturday a group of us decided to stop and try the food. It was the BEST decision because the food was GREAT!!! I tried the sweet pork tacos with a side of pinto beans and rice. I used the special house sauce they had and the flavors were amazing. The other two in my group ordered a sweet pork burrito and steak nachos. Both were very pleased and happy with the food they received. The staff at this place were extremely friendly and offered me free samples of the desserts they offered and of their horchata. If I weren't so full from lunch I definitely would have ordered dessert. The horchata was probably some of the best I have tasted in a long time. The touch of cinnamon really made it that much more enjoyable. I am kicking myself now for not getting some to go!!! I would encourage anyone to try this place and to try the sweet pork tacos (even though they are known for their fish tacos). I will definitely be stopping by this place again!
(5)Harrison S.
My wife and me make it a point to enjoy a fabulous fish taco everyone we hit the waves of the north shore. Wonderful family setting, nice people, and beautifully prepared and delivered fish tacos!!
(5)Jane F.
Fun atmosphere. Positive energy. Packed with people. Delicious food! I ordered the 2 fish tacos and a Mexican, real sugar coca-cola. I ordered it to go. The wait was kind of long, the girl at the counter told me it would be better to call my order in, in the future, which I will for sure do. Overall, Id def recommend and come back.
(4)Keshia M.
BEST FISH TACOS I'VE EVER HAD!! My friend and I stumbled upon this place while driving around North Shore earlier this year. These tacos have been on my mind ever since. We're back in Hawaii for my moms birthday and I made sure to visit again. I can't even eat fish tacos at other restaurants because nothing compares to theirs. Amazing!!
(5)Margs K.
Ok, I mostly stopped here on my way to Haleiwa because my phone was dying, and I needed a place to charge it. But I was actually surprised how good their ahi tacos and horchata were, and I loved the indoor/outdoor space! The '#1 fish tacos' sign they have hanging outside isn't just hyperbole.
(4)Joel W.
The food was just ok. We each had a fish taco and pork taco combo. Nothing special but the pork one was better. Friendly and fast service.
(3)Jessica M.
Love this place!!! Services is great food is amazing a little expensive but o well is Hawaii ... !!
(5)Craig P.
Almost a 5 star. Horchata was good. Ahi tacos with beans and side salad. good price for the amount.
(4)Becky S.
Deliciously good! Pork burrito was tasty as were the shrimp tacos. The green sauce was perfect to compliment anything on the menu. Definitely order the ginger lemonade. It is a little pricy for what you get but great food.
(4)Francisco A.
I went here the other day and this place is WAY over priced. 45 dollars for two mediocre meals. The Menu on their facebook page said 11.45 for two fish tacos. Thats a lie, we paid almost 20 dollars a plate on small toco meals. They were not bad, they were just OK. And the fish they use is ahi, so I don't understand their pricing. Pretty ridicules for a food truck. Anyways, on top of their ridicules prices, it took about an hour to get our food from the time we stood in line to the time we actually took our first bite. The funny thing is they actually ask for a tip? We are not being waited on.... We walked away feeling like we got ripped off...very disappointed.
(1)Kaitlin B.
My initial review was 4stars but I now changed it to 2 Coming back I didn't realize how SLOW they are- and not at just making your food, but at taking your order! They are too busy up selling their desserts (which, if you didn't know is where they make their money- highest price margin is on drinks and desserts). Which i wouldn't mind if they had two people working, one giving samples and one taking orders. It's like they know they are one of the few places to eat on the windward side and so they don't have to worry about customer service. Waited 20min to order (only 2people ahead of me and no one in their drive thru) and 20 min for our food. Their tacos are NOT THAT good. This is the LAST time I come here!
(1)Kali D.
My boyfriend and I were looking for a new place to eat lunch in haleiwa and came across this taco truck in Haleiwa. It seems from reading the other comments and looking at pictures they either moved or expanded because there is now a truck right in the middle of Haleiwa. I ordered 2 tacos one with shredded beef then the lady at the window recommended sweet pork (she was a little pushy) but I thought I'd give it a try. My boyfriend ordered the their special shrimp burrito. I was pleasantly surprised, the shredded beef taco was delicious and fresh tasting, I should have stuck with my gut though and got both tacos with shredded beef. The sweet pork was ok, a little to sweet for me though. The rice and beans that came with my tacos were bland, If I go back I'll try the chips and salsa as a side instead. I tried my boyfriends burrito, it was ok, the filling was mostly rice and it was a little dry.
(3)LJ S.
First of all give it up al the employees working the Jazz and Blues festival at Turtle bay! They worked so hard making our dinner perfect and very delicious! As I stood waiting for my fish tacos and chips with salsa and guacamole i witnessed not only the people coming together as we waiting having good laughs but the employees working together and helping each other to get through a very VERY busy night. Many smiles and a big Mahalo! See you soon.
(5)Eddy S.
I love the Stake quessadila plate. Love the black beans. The people are very friendly and there's not too much waiting for the food. The food taste delicious and fresh. Costumer service could be a little better but like I said people are nice so you over look at the service.
(5)Sam R.
Pricier than regular tacos. And they recommend to you what to order. Their lemonades are expensive $5 for a large and $4.50 for medium. Not the cleanest place but it's along the main road. Cost for two lunches and drinks $39.00
(2)Zero R.
Prices are OP. I felt like I got raped. The food wasn't even good it felt like something was moving in my mouth.
(2)Anthony S.
Long drive from Honolulu but the food was excellent. A little pricey. Fish tacos and burritos were top notch.
(4)Jerramy H.
Ok just get the fact that is $32 for 4 tacos with guac, chips, and a diet coke! It's worth it! Great fish tacos, I had both fish and shrimp and the shrimp tacos were the best for sure! Look for the big red truck it's a great choice to hang out for lunch. You can also grab fresh coconut water next door!
(5)Jenne E.
The best fish taco I've had! A bit messy (juices) but amazing and worth spilling on myself. If your driving the coast stop by north shore tacos, you won't be disappointed.
(5)Joe L.
The North Shore lacks a variety of food types so we were happy to try tacos after many days of the typical area's offerings. The staff was very friendly and gave us samples of the deserts and lemonades. The tres leches and mouse are very good. They had a couple of flavors with the mouse (I tried the passion fruit and chocolate). They had flan as well, but I didn't try that. The sweet pork burrito with the red sauce was big and very good. My wife enjoyed her tacos and we all left full. In Hawaii the restaurants aren't required to have bathrooms unlike my home state. So, it was convenient that this one does have a bathroom. Bonus points for that.
(5)Mark C.
I was a first time customer and told the cashier that. I had already checked the menu on the wall and decided to get just a steak taco. She kept asking me what type of beans I wanted and I said whatever normally comes on the taco. She said they don't come on the taco, what type of beans do I want. She was trying to bully me into admitting I wanted some beans so she could charge for a basket meal and not just a taco. Then, when I picked up the order, I asked for a cup of ice water. She told me it would cost 25 cents. I told her I had no cash and she would not let me have it. A lady behind me in line was kind enough to pay for it. On top if it all, the taco was very bland. I will not eat here again.
(2)Brittany G.
This place was amazing! We pulled in on a whim and were impressed by the awesome food and great hospitality. I recommend this gem to everyone in the area! Ps- the Hot Sauce is BOMB! :)
(5)Eugene N.
Not the best Mexican restaurant on the island, we love the nacho. It's a bit pricey for the quality of the food. The place is relaxing and I love they surfing video that is always on.
(3)Sarah R.
When you read a sign that says "hawaiis best fish tacos" you usually glance over it wothout a second thought. This sign at this food truck is the absolute truth. I had the two taco meal, twice in 3 days for lunch. The fish is caught fresh daily, the pico is fresh and tasty, but the thing that really sets this apart from other fish tacos is the "surf sauce" 2 tacos are very filling and come with either a side of chips and salsa or rice and beans. Great value compared to some of the other trucks in the area where you can easily pay $15 for a single mahi mahi sandwich without any sides. My wife and I love good, local food and couldnt contain our excitement. I wanted to try other trucks on the north shore, but on our last afternoon just had to go back for one more! When the chef came to deliver spoons for our flan, he was surprised to get a hug. While waiting for our food, we tried to persuede others to make the right choice and go for mahi tacos. Mmmmmm....until next time north shore tacos!
(5)Wardog M.
Great service but bad fish tacos. Gave them a 2 star only because I haven't tried anything else
(2)Brandon H.
I read dozens of reviews saying their fish tacos were so good they could cure cancer. They were pretty tasty but I wouldn't say my life will never be the same having tried them. It was worth trying once. If I lived here I'd probably eat here again but as a tourist I think I'll keep trying other restaurants while I'm here. I paid about $12 for two fish tacos and some beans and rice. Not too bad, but the award for "Best Fish Tacos" goes to a seedy back-alley cart I ate at in Tijuana Mexico several years ago. I still have dirty dreams about THOSE fish tacos.
(3)Mason R.
Amazing food! Been here about 5 times and loved it every time! My favorite is the fresh shrimp beach burrito! A little pricey, but bomb food!
(5)Sarah K.
Excellent tacos!! We had the fish tacos and chicken quesadillas. They were both great but I think the fish taco was the best!!! The food was fresh and a ton of flavors packed in one taco! Pair the quesadilla with the sauce and YUM is all you'll be able to say. The lady at the front was very helpful and gave you a sample of everything. Go to North Shore Tacos for a great, quick meal!!
(4)DeAnna R.
They give you two choices of meat. So I tried pork and shrimp. I'm not sure their was even any pork on my pork taco... The shrimp taco was ok. Got a side of guacamole and salsa. I like chunky guacamole as much as the next person but this was like whole slices not even attempted to be broken down. Then the guacamole had a very tangy taste to it. We describe it as being very salty with lots of citrus. The chips were also very stale. I would have to say this place being number 1 is self proclaimed. Let down...
(2)Local B.
It's not good. I've tried it over 3 times but every time is the same. Blan blan blan. Way to much rice in everything you order. They need to remove the sign and put a new one "tacos are ok if your super hungry" C- at best. Sorry guys...
(1)Eric S.
Best fish tacos on windward/north Shore. Awesome deserts. Staff is super friendly great place I go here quite often. Only 4 stars because of price. It's a bit expensive. Otherwise I love it.
(4)jonathan s.
Attention Moron's from California, Don't expect a baja style fish taco in Hawaii. I'm from SO Cal too, so I know a good fish taco when I eat one. I saw the sign #1 Fish Taco, so I thought.... OH YEAH? WE'LL SEE ABOUT THAT. I will say that a fish taco on flour tortilla is appalling. However, if I just rate the food item on it's own merit, I will tell you that the fish was delicious, their salsa was really good and the flavor was great. I would stop here again after a north shore visit. On the downside, $4.00 for a small little taco is absurd. The fish is local, so why so much? All in all, the place was busy, customers were enjoying their food, and the vibe was typical taco shop. I would go back
(4)Paige S.
This review is just for their fresh raspberry lemonade and their strawberry tres leches cake. Okay, I read the reviews while we were waiting on our dinner at papa ole's...I got the feeling that nothing we got was going to be fabulous but my girlfriend who lives in Laie said that the flan at North Shore Tacos was fabulous and that we should get some for dessert. So we headed over. It was 930 at night, the place looked super shady..like some place you would go to make a shady transaction. But we were greeted as soon as we walked in by a friendly lady behind the counter. We were told that there is no more flan, I guess since changing owners they also took this off their menu so we ordered tres leches and some drinks. The tres leches cake was horrible. I'm not sure if they just poured milk over it and called it a day but it was a dry cake, that was overly sweetened that had a weird fake sweet flavor. The fact that they added what looked like melted frozen strawberries on top made it that much worse. Belch, never again. The raspberry lemonade was fresh but it was not that tart or flavorful, much like a brisk iced tea. Does brisk still exist? If so, it would be better than this place. I would give this place a one star but the customer service made me boost it up to 2 stars. Overall, we will not be heading back. Nice employees but Not authentic at all.
(2)Mark S.
The sign said "Best Fish Tacos". Overstated to say the least. I was driving by so I decided to try one. It was ok. Here's the best way to describe it. 5 dollars for one taco 4 bites 3 very small pieces of fish 2 kinds of shells. Soft flour and hard corn. Really? Hard corn shells? 1 disappointed customer Pass by next time.
(2)Abby S.
Food is okay. Was surprised to like the ginger lemonade. It was cool that they let you try their specialty drinks and deserts. Service was good. I don't know about having great fish tacos though. It was pretty bland. We had the chicken burrito too and that wasn't bad. But I won't be going back.
(3)Brittany K.
Samples of homemade desserts and drinks upon arrival. The coconut flan is amazing. The shrimp is probably some of the best I've had in a long time. It's super easy to order here with a food allergy because, believe it or not, they actually know everything that they put in their food. The staff is so friendly. It's definitely worth a visit!
(5)Rafael R.
Stopped by the drive through after a spartan race. Choke food and super ono. Thanks for some great grindz.
(5)EL C.
Brought a friend visiting from the mainland here. I'm local, and always hear good things about this place on yelp, but today was NOT A GOOD EXPERIENCE. My friend & I ordered the fish tacos. When he bit into his tacos he realized there was only a small chunk of fish in it. So that one small bite was the only part that had fish. He checked his other taco before eating, and noticed the same thing. I checked mine, and AGAIN barely any fish in our fish tacos. What's up with that? I hope the next time I come here, it'll be better. One more chance.
(1)Milton L.
Great place to stop for lunch on your loop up to the Haliewa and back. No real ambience or anything. I would suggest grabbing tacos to go and stopping at the next beach park and enjoy the scenery and the tacos. Tacos are really good and the sauce is great and the hot sauce is really good too. Had fish tacos and shrimp tacos, liked both equally well.
(4)Christie M.
I live right down the street from this restaurant and am originally from California, so it is not easy to please me when it comes to Mexican food. This is not like any Mexican food you are used to. It's "Hawaiian Style kin". I usually get the two pork taco combo ( it's a sweet pork, but really good with the cilantro lime cream sauce/ salsa they serve with it) and pinto beans and rice. DEFINATELY get the flour tortilla as the corn are not that good and although I like black beans a lot, here I prefer the pinto. Hope this helps
(2)Marie C.
I was driving around the island to check out different beaches and although it was only 10:30 am, fish tacos for breakfast sounded great. I'd heard about North Shore Tacos and definitely would continue to pass along it's praises! The ahi tacos were delicious! The manager was also really helpful about the dessert options, which include coconut flan, lilikoi mouse, and several others. Ana, thanks for making my day! I enjoyed talking with you. Hope to see you again soon.
(5)Michael B.
What a great find after visiting the Polynesian cultural center. Fresh fish tacos were wonderful and the portions were generous. Fresh fruit juices were a great complement to the outstanding food. Service was great and the atmosphere makes you feel like a local.
(4)Justin M.
This place is out of the way, way out of the way. The food was much better than I would have ever guessed. Not just because my stomach was empty, this food was very appetizing. I highly recommend the fish tacos, nachos with steak and one of the lemonade varieties they make fresh!
(4)Vance F.
Despite being expensive, overall it's pretty good. Friendly service, open and spacious, nice breeze. I been here a while back and food was expensive, not that great and with small portions... I've heard it's gotten better so I decided come and bring my kids. The fish tacos was good and the nachos with shredded beef as well. Ginger lemonade and horchata drinks were pretty good too. I really liked the tres leches cake for dessert.
(3)Sam F.
Awesome dinning experience, friendly staff, excellent food. The beef is great, the fish is really fresh. Locally owned and operated. It is a great joint!
(5)Tim L.
North Shore Tacos rocks. We came here four years ago with our family on vacation and I have been counting the days to come back. Mahi-Mahi tacos and sweet pork with their sauce. Two thumbs up for sure!
(5)Jen H.
Best sweet pork tacos and nachos...I drive a half an hour sometimes just for these! Really good house made hot sauce too - they bottle and sell it, just remember to ask!
(5)Karen L.
I would give them 2.5 stars. We were driving down the coast and got a bit hungry so stopped by Northshore tacos since it had a sign saying best fish tacos. We ordered 2 fish tacos and the sweet pork nachos. They gave us the wrong order and had to repeat it to another employee three 3 times before she understood what happened. The nachos were decent, I would give that 3.5 stars. The pork had good flavor but wish the cheese was a bit hotter and melted. The fish tacos were overpriced and very plain. It lacked seasoning and flavor. It cost $6 for each taco and nachos were $10.
(2)Sean C.
The Best Fish Tacos Go for two tacos they are not that large I went for one and was ordering another a few mins later. It's a great spot close to the beach.
(4)Chris W.
Excellent food and friendly service. A little pricey for tacos but what do you expect on Hawaii. Recommended.
(5)Shauna M.
Everything was tasty and freshly made from the strawberry lemonade to dessert. Highly recommend. My only complaint is the prices are high for small portion. But what you get is very good, so we would go back again.
(5)Brittney B.
Great fish tacos! Cool, casual atmosphere. Not so "touristy"! The gals working the counter were super sweet, and offered me samples of different drinks and desserts before I chose what I wanted! Yes, it's kind of out of the way, but well worth the drive if you want a more "local" experience!
(5)Danna A.
The family spent Christmas and New Year's on the North Shore. We were there 14 days and I think we spent at least six meals here. I tried ALL of the different tacos and ALL of them were amazing!!! However, the fish tacos were by far my favorites, with the shredded beef a close second. Always ask for the surf sauce....you won't regret it. The salsa has a lot of flavor and the chips are fresh. I don't know what the sauce is in the cola bottles, but is it tangy and spicy. It went really good with the pork and chicken tacos. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this place and it will be one of my stops EVERY time I visit the island.
(5)Rebecca S.
Stopped here last night after going to the haunted lagoon at PCC, since we didn't want to go to McD's. I went for their chicken taco plate ($8-ish) and my guy had the beef burrito (also around $8). Their tacos are normally served with a flour tortilla, but I like corn, so that's what I ordered. I liked the fact that they served two corn tortillas with their tacos, since the corn ones tend to fall apart. The counter service was also very friendly and she seemed to be working her butt off. They've also done a good job revamping this place to feel open, airy and North Shore-ish. The food itself, though, was "meh," or even worse. The taco was pretty bland, the pinto beans were hard and the rice tasted like it had been sitting in a pan all day, which I'm fairly confident it had. I had to use a loooot of hot sauce. My guy liked his burrito okay, particularly the fact that they smother it in red or green sauce. However, he was starving and likely would have said the same about a smothered cardboard box. I'll likely keep driving the next time I pass here and grab tacos at Luibuenos or Cholos in Haleiwa instead.
(2)Angela S.
The signs say #1 tacos in North shore....I haven't tried anywhere else up here....but.....clean establishment....friendly service....and fresh tasting.....had two ahi tacos......expensive for what I am used to...but seems to be the going rate up here....definitely will return.
(4)Timothy C.
Oh man! I don't know WHAT they put on those tacos (it's literally a green sauce that goes on them), but wow. Two tacos served with cilantro-limey type rice and either pinto or black beans. Perfect little dinner, so tasty. And to top it off, NACHOS! served with pork and that splendid little sauce that seems to take normal things (chips, cheese, pork, sour cream) and KICK IT UP A NOTCH! Scrumptious! And they have a drive through, probably the only drive through on that quarter of the island. Open dining area, clean, surfy vibe, a couple TVs, and the sign outside that says #1 fish tacos, well, it's not that much of a stretch to get there. I don't have a ton of fish taco experience, so, take it with a grain of salt.
(4)Jim R.
OK. Would not return. Over priced.
(2)Ashley L.
All the food was delicious!! Loved that they gave samples and recommended their most popular dishes. The boys that helped us were very informative and had great customer service! Will definitely be back ;)
(5)Arman B.
Great tacos with a lot of variety, chicken, pork, fish, and steak. They had samples at the front which was nice. Although I opted for just water. If you are at the north shore there's not really many restaurants so I would definitely recommend it also because it's clean. Note. I have celiac disease and after eating the steak tacos with rice and black beans I had no issues so that was a plus
(5)Scott C.
Wow, great food, we all LOVED what we got. You can tell everything is very fresh. Staff is very friendly and helpful. A+ Prices are a little high but that might be normal considering the location. Don't stop if your in a big hurry though. Definitely worth checking out.
(5)Pualena P.
Surfin' Tacos is one of those restaurants that I have driven past hundreds of times and never thought to try. To be honest, I'm not sure I even really noticed it at all...and then one day...my whole world was turned upside down and I found some of the tastiest tacos on the North Shore! I've had their fish tacos, which seem small but will fill you up! Their burritos are simple, yet satisfying. I got the shrimp burrito last time and the pieces of shrimp were HUGE! Not those little shrimp babies that many restaurants pass off as "shrimp"...these were legit! It wasn't a super full burrito, so if that's your thing, I'd skip this and go straight to the nachos or the fajitas. But it filled me up to the top! Actually, I was stuffed and I couldn't even finish it. Whatever you get, make sure you don't pass up their secret surf sauce! I might dare to say that this is another one of those sauces that has a little bit of magic cooked in. I can't really put my finger on the taste, but without it, there would be a void in my Surfin' Tacos meals. Did I mention this is a DRIVE-THRU!?!?! Step aside, Taco Bell, you've got some serious competition! What a great option for grub on the go when you're in a rush to get back into town or if you can't wait any longer to get in that refreshing Hauula ocean!
(4)Adam R.
this was my favorite place we ate in the area. We live in SoCal and love Mexican food and we enjoyed the shrimp tacos and the fish tacos. Compared to other places in the area, this has a much cleaner look and ample indoor seating.
(4)Trevor W.
Best tacos I've had in Hawaii. This blows away all the taco shops near Honolulu. It's totally worth the trip to come up to North Shore and enjoy the beaches, and grab a delicious pork and fish taco from this place. Customer service was also on point. Very friendly. Gave me free samples of the desert. Loved it. If you're in this part of the island, you have to stop by.
(5)Stan S.
As others have stated the food here is indeed tasty and the green sauce very delicious. I give it 3 stars for the value (a little pricey but they are large portions) and for the exceptionally long wait time to prepare the food. I am not sure if this is the standard wait time there. I think we waited 30 minutes to receive our food.
(3)Julian B.
I think some of the other reviewers must be eating in a different place. The pork quesadilla is excellent, and the interesting green sauce is a great accompaniment. Black beans, guacamole, rice and sour cream are included. We've also tried the nachos and burritos - all good. Whoever is looking for authentic Mexican food in Hawaii is on a misguided wild goose chase - and so this food isn't, but it sure is tasty!
(5)Erica W.
Visiting the North Shore from SoCal, we weren't expecting fish tacos better than we are used to at home, but these weren't bad at all. Fresh, local fish and tasty green sauce. Rice and beans were meh. Horchata was good. Desserts looked good, but we didn't try them. Service was fine. We went twice, but just ordered to go as we were staying just a few miles down the street. This place is a decent option when you're in the area and want something besides shrimp trucks or plate lunch.
(4)renee l.
I would have given a higher rating except for the price, $13 for a two-taco plate and $13 for a salad? I expect that at a restaurant in town, but not a small little road-side place. However, I guess it's the going rate to nab the tourists, as even the little food trucks up the road charge $13-15 for a plate. The tacos were good, although I felt the sauce was a bit salty and overpowered the fresh fish. Didn't end up going with any of the speciality drinks or desserts, but what a great idea to offer samples to new customers! Overall customer service was exceptional though, from explaining the menu and the popular/recommended dishes to the incredibly short wait time for the food! Would definitely try again if we found ourselves hungry on that stretch of road, but wouldn't consider it necessarily a "destination" spot for a meal.
(3)Murphy D.
Great quesadillas and lemonade! Also has nice, clean bathrooms which seem to be few and far between on the North Shore :) The staff was very friendly and gave some free samples while we were deciding what to order. My reason for the minus one star is that I wasn't too impressed with the rice and beans that came with my meal. Overall, great place to stop and eat!
(4)Brian H.
Visited North Shore Tacos while on a drive around the eastern side of Oahu. They claim to have the "#1 fish tacos." Well, they were good...but #1? Not so fast... The place itself is quite a dive. Open-air seating, which was nice. Closer inspection, however, found the place rather dirty: hot sauce spilled in the container reserved for knives (looked like it had been there a while, too), dirty floors and chairs. It was around 4 in the afternoon so there were not a lot of people there. I would hope that would give them time to clean the place up a bit. As for the food itself, it was decent. We ordered a two-taco plate. They let us split between fish and shrimp. There was a good amount of shrimp on my taco, and it was cooked perfectly. But I can get the same thing at Baja Fresh and pay half as much.
(3)Courtney B.
The sweet pork taco was amazing and the ginger lemonade was the best I've ever had. If you enjoy horchata North Shore tacos has the best on the island. Worth the trek.
(5)Amber W.
Holy salt! I went here a few years ago (under new management now) and it was fantastic! The fish tacos WERE the best on the island. Now it's sad to say, they do not taste the same (as I remember) not even close. This time the fish tacos weren't horrible, but very salty as others say, and I don't mind salt. The sauce is different now too. It's not bad, but expensive and not that great, just kind of sad.
(3)Meghan J.
We had their shrimp quesadilla and sweet pork burrito with double meat! The burrito was enormous! Could be a meal for two. The sweet pork was amazing and went well with their spicy hot sauce and their cilantro crema. Their shrimp quesadilla was my favorite. All of their desserts are homemade. I recommend taking out and eating your food overlooking a beach somewhere...the ambiance isn't the best.
(4)Joe L.
You know Southern Cali. Mexican Food you will love this Baja mex spot! I am a connoisseur of Mexican food and I have tried every restaurant on island. This is TOPS for Baja Mexican! Thank you Joey! Joe
(5)Monique G.
I eat tacos constantly in California. I'm used to the tacos out here. These were not like anything out here, but in a great way! I liked the way they packaged the tacos in a neat little foil pouch... Sweet pork tacos-- sweet, cheesy, delicious... Ahi fish tacos-- amazing!! Rice and beans-- great sides! I added their hot sauce which was in Coke bottles near the front. Very hot (be careful!). Washed it all down with a Mexican Coke. The girl at the front counter was sweet and friendly; we went with her recommendations. I wish we could eat here at least once a week, but we are from Southern California. We will be back someday!
(5)Andy G.
I'd give it 4.5 stars. This place is awesome. The hot sauce is great. Thoroughly enjoyed it and a great place to stop if you are headed up the east side. With that said, the fish tacos weren't the best. Honestly, ahi should never be thoroughly cooked. Seared maybe, but not cooked. I think lighter fish like mahi are better for tacos, but that's just my opinion. The steak tacos were perfect though and I'll certainly be back for those.
(4)Jaki W.
Definitely not the best fish tacos I had on the trip. For $13, 2 small tacos, dry rice and beans. I won't be coming here again. Their spicy sauce is really good though.
(2)Stephen L.
We always take a drive and come down here to get our taco fix!! North shore tacos is delicious. Even though there's a truck situated some where in north shore, nothing beats going to the actual restaurant and eating outside. The fish, shrimp, and sweet pork tacos are great. Pineapple drink is amazing too.
(5)Joy P.
As the BF and I had to head into town for an errand from the west side we noticed that the traffic coming back was ridiculously bad. We decided to go around the other side of the island and make a day of it. We initially wanted to go to grab some food at Papa Ole's in Hauula but when we got there, it was pretty packed (tourist bus stopped there). So we decided to go across the parking lot to North Shore Tacos to check it out. The fish of the day was ahi so I ordered the Ahi Tacos and opted for the rice and black beans over chips and salsa that comes with that entree. The BF ordered the Shredded Beef Nachos with Black Beans. Both were DEELISH!!! They have a little table with bottles of house hot sauce... YUMMM! For dessert I ordered the Tres Leches cake. Hmmm... didn't care for it too much, but no biggie because our food was Bomb! I've got to admit that looking at the prices left me a little shell shocked but when you're hungry you tend to overlook that stuff a little. I'm glad we finally tried this place tho. I'll be back for sure.
(4)Elena S.
Tacos are one of my favorite things, and we stopped here 3 times in one week because it was SO good. Their Ahi tacos, shrimp tacos, and pork burritos were beyond delicious. Salsa- both pineapple and regular was tasty, and their guacamole is really fresh! Their pineapple drinks were so refreshing- quite filling too! I have never had anything like it. Not only are their food and drinks amazing, their hot sauce (homemade) is hands down, the best hot sauce I have ever had. Spicy and extremely flavorful. North Shore Tacos- you guys are the best taco place we have ever had. Cant wait for the next time we are in oahu!
(5)Camille C.
Not the best fish tacos I have ever had, but it got the job done when I was craving it. The drive thru option was great! I would definitely go back again if I find myself in that area. ...I'm still on the hunt for the best fish tacos on this island!
(4)Mandy B.
Since we've been in Hawaii, I've found a new love of fish tacos and my husband is obsessed with the pork tacos here. North Shore Tacos jumped out at us as we drove by on the way to our hotel - it's the only place I've seen with a drive-thru! We decided to stop in and we weren't disappointed. The Ahi fish tacos were cooked perfectly and the sweet pork tacos were great as well. Since it was our first time there, the cashier had us try a few of their smoothie flavors and they were super refreshing and juicy. Make sure to try the pineapple salsa!
(5)Chris V.
These are some pretty good tacos, likely the best on the north shore (as the sign says), but are there any other places around here selling tacos? Anyway, tried the sweet pork and chicken. Sweet pork was best. Tacos are good size. Get 3-4 if your hungery though. The Ginger lemonade wad OK, large is a huge bucket. Taco plate comes with rice and beans, which makes for a decent sized lunch for about $10. The homemade hot sauce was good and very, very hot! Also some good looking desserts that i will have to try next time. Nice beachmosphere too.
(4)Diane M.
They have good foods but personally I think they are about 20% over priced. Maybe they need more competition? Not too many reasonable places to eat in Hauula.
(4)Curtis H.
Friendly competent staff, upgraded tables, same great fish tacos. Always a good choice on North Shore.
(4)Abe K.
Excellent food and service. One of the best we had. And don't forget to sample their desserts - the caramel flan was outstanding
(5)Raji S.
Great atmosphere. Amazing Pineapple smoothie served in an actual Pineapple. Fish tacos are over rated. Definitely not the best. The shrimp tacos where good. A little pricy but it's a tourist spot so that is expected. The view from the patio and the little chickens running around are awesome. Good spot to watch the sun set. 2 stars for food/$ and 4 stars for location and view.
(3)Wendell K.
2 small tacos and a small drink for about $20. If you think that is a fair deal, then read no further since the food was mostly ok. If like me, you think that a bit much, especially when the most expensive taco is listed for $13 bucks on the menu board (and I got charged $14), then you'll understand my shock when I had to pay $19 for the two tacos and a small soda. I have a philosophical problem when I am shown one price but then end up having to pay way more for things that I think should be included. Items like guacamole and sour cream are considered "sides" but you are not told that they cost more. And why did they charge me $2 for a "medium" guacamole without asking me what size I wanted? I know it's small $$, but the feeling I get here screams tourist trap. I could go on and on about what I perceived as sneaky sales tactics to run up my bill and how tourists are being taken advantage of, but I don't want to start any bad karma. Best advice, skip this place.
(1)Galia W.
Best shrimp tacos I've ever had! Top that with super friendly, super fast service and fresh delicious fruit juice and so far, this is the best food I've had on the North Shore. Whatever that green creamy sauce is, get that! It's amazing!!!
(5)Jessica J.
Wow what a find!!! As we were cruising around the island in our convertible mustang we began to work up an appetite and came across this place! The sign #1 Fish Tacos got me in. I ordered the fish tacos & pork tacos. The pork were the highlight although the fish very awesome as well there was just something about the sauce with the pork!! The tacos came with a side of salsa & chips and we ordered some guac so yummy! Loved this place and would recommend to anyone in the area to stop & grab some tacos!
(5)Scott I.
First time here. Food was great. We ordered the sweet pork burrito. It came with this creamy sauce that was yummy. The sweet pork was a little on the sweet side but was still really good. My daughter ordered the chicken toco. I ended up eating one of them. It was tasty and the chicken was moist. The rice and beans were a little bland. Overall it was a great experience. We enjoyed the food there. If we're on that side of the island again, we would definitely go back.
(4)Hillary J.
The tacos are underwhelming. But the hours are excellent. Not going to complain.
(3)Chris L.
For 13 bucks, 2 fish tacos, I expect more fish in it. 90% lettuce with a thin strip of ahi on the bottom. The price shocked me when he rang us up. And the whole time I was eating I was thinking 1 dollar, 1 dollar, 1 dollar every bite, and that left me very disappointed since some of those bites were lettuce only. They tasted good but my gut exploded and I didn't make it home before I had to run into the bathroom at McD's. Been there done that. Not again.
(2)Toni B.
Loved this place!! delicious and fresh fish tacos! A little pricey but in my opinion is inexpensive compared to what you would pay elsewhere on the island. The atmosphere is nice and clean and the people working were super nice as well.
(5)Darin O.
Here is my case in point that in general- Mexican Food is better made and tastes better in California or NY or Chicago. There was nothing wrong about the food parse but it just was not prepared beyond an expectation or have more taste. The chicken taco I found to be soggy/ soggier than other tacos. The pork had extra fat instead of all meat on the taco. The beef was just cooked and pulled apart well but nothing special or flavorful about it. Fish taco to me was just unappealing. Vegetarian taco fillings were just ok- no complaint other than I could not tell what it was supposed to be that they used as protein. The chips seem to be normal. Eat it with salsa and it is just normal to me. They use these tin plates. I don't know if this is better or worse/ cheaper or more cost effective. But it is what they choose to do. Please don't get me wrong. The food was fresh and seemed to be made the way that they want to make it. Again- some friends that go to BYU suggested the place and say that it is so much better than BYU Cafe food. I take them at their word and know what they mean by enjoying something that is not Univ Caf food. It is just food to me - not a great place or great food but it is better than fast food and way better than caf food. The store itself looks great. Makes one feel like open and friendly picnic type feelings. The area in general looks way open. Both the store is open walled so that people can feel the breezeyness of the area and the area there that now has Longs is very open in feeling where the lot makes a welcoming emotional statement. When I have to go to BYU for a meeting- this place is on my radar If I am there for many trips , it'll be one of the places that I would go to in a rotation. If I was taking guests up to BYU or PCC and needed to feed people- I would ask if people would enjoy an open air eating area or an inside place and then make the choices from that (based on the age of the people generally). So if the people want an indoor type setting I would take them somewhere else first and just point out the restaurant out while driving - which is so easy to do.
(3)Mike And Leslie B.
We were enjoying a nice afternoon on the bike and decided to stop by for some yummy tacos. We tried their tacos before from their truck in Haleiwa, so we pretty much knew they served quality foods. We ordered the chips and pineapple salsa and a plate of shrimp tacos with pinto beans and rice. The pineapple salsa was to die for and the chips tasted fresh. Of course we would have preferred if the chips were a bit warm, not cold, but that's fine...not many places take that extra step. The tacos were really fresh and came loaded with plenty of ingredients. The service from the cute girls was great as well....we'll be back for sure. Enjoy!!!
(4)Kristie Y.
I loved their shredded chicken nachos and their pineapple drink serves in a pineapple! Delicious! Too bad my hubby didn't really care for his burrito though.
(4)Barbara D.
We almost passed this place up because it looked like a chain restaurant with a drive-thru to boot! But we stopped, and thank goodness cuz these tacos are da bomb! Ok, the price is outrageous, so minus 1 star. But my friend devoured the fish tacos, while I devoured the pulled pork ones. Damn, what flavor!!! Chips, salsa and guac were also equally tasty!
(4)RJ E.
NOT #1 as they claim to be, not even serviceable. Take the drive and GO2 KILLER TACOS in the real North Shore! They broke the jaw, as the locals say. Mahalo!
(1)Azadeh K.
Who has time to drive all the way to Haaula just to grab some expensive, yet tasty Fish Taco's? hmmm a lot of folks apparently lol Yumm - ~awesome green surf sauce! its like a dip of heaven for a fish taco or whatever you get with it! ~they're secret hot sauce is not a secret on the hot part! its super spicy but adds a kick when adding it to your choice of food ~great spacious seating, & there is no need for AC! The breeze will just do! plus theres outside benches to seat on as well! ~fish taco's are yummy, not oh-wow-must-have type, but deliciously enough to enjoy ~burrito size is huge, (wife ordered the sweet pork burrito I think..) and its fulfilling, so no problem there! ~super friendly customer service, the ladies there were awesome! Eh - x - expensive, so if your looking for a cheap taco, burrito or any type of eats here, then Taco Bell is your best bet, unfortunately you will have to drive very very...and I mean very far back into civilization to get that, b/c its no where near on this end of the island x - they're horchata is a NO GO, sorry but its no where near made fresh, it taste super powdery, and no where near refreshing, yes reason of lost stars on this review. x - ordered they're nacho's with black beans, which was good, just wish they're cheese was melted nicely, it tasted like fake melted cheese /: Overall, my experience food wise was okay, maybe its because the price turned me off real quick, and the portions did not sum up to what I would spend my money on. But the workers there was friendly, and it had a great atmosphere, which is the reason for my 3 star rating. But tourist and some folks claim they have the best fish taco's, so that should say something /: Anyways, Happy Fish Taco Eats Yelpers, try it! you might like it! (=
(3)Leolani W.
Well when you are ordering they let you try a bunch of stuff. Ask what the price of the pineapple stuff is before ordering it. It comes in a pineapple and its good but it's "market price" and we paid like 10 bucks for it. It's not that good. Also my daughter found a hair in it and didn't finish it. (that's after finding a hair in her quesadillia, which I told her might be the cheese strings) Anyway our bill for 3 people was 71 dollars. My husband did order the shrimp burrito with 12 shrimp which was probably 20 bucks. but the meal did not live up to the high cost of it. The most expensive meal I paid for the whole trip and it was just ok. The little sauces were really good though. Would probably not eat here again.
(2)Anita N.
We discovered this gem on our way to Turtle Bay Resort. If it's your first time in they have you sample all their specialty drinks and desserts. My daughter and I fell in love with the ginger lemon aid. The first time we had the pork nachos which were to die for and after ziplining we came back and tried the pork tacos also delicious. A no-frills taco joint and we just love it definitely worth a stop!
(4)Alice N.
Minus two stars for not enough shrimp and fish filling. $44 dollars for two people is ridiculously high price and mediocre food. I got one shrimp and one fish taco with chips and salsa...mostly lettuce and tomato inside. Flavor was ok. Needs more fish/shrimp inside! If the portion was bigger my rating would have been higher. Chips/salsa yuck! Stale and salsa was boring. Hubby's burrito was good and big he got lucky. Not sure how the bill got so high...the pineapple drink must be $10? Crazy! Haha good thing we on vacation. Save your money. I should have skipped the strawberry lemonade, waste money.
(3)E I.
North Shore Tacos quite frankly the expectations were set pretty high with the 3.5 star reviews. I was informed that most if not all items are prepared fresh daily. I will say thank you for your efforts but your fish tacos were ok. Beans and rice did not meet expectations. I will stick with Dukes KAI fish tacos. Dukes are second to none in the island of O'ahu!
(1)Jon C.
Roadside stand is on the pricey side. Perfectly acceptable food at unreasonable prices. Yet another establishment that thinks because they are in Hawaii they must overcharge. We stopped here because my daughter was having a caloric emergency. She couldn't make it another 5 miles down to the shrimp truck. Just out of her mind. She was much happier after she started in on the children's quesadilla. The chips and salsa were very good. The place receives a surprising amount of traffic. They also have some creative desserts and drinks that they will let you sample. Not a bad place by any stretch, but it's not exactly on the value curve as a whole.
(3)Nefertari M.
Had the chicken burrito w/ green sauce, baked enchilada style and it was to die for!! I'm a California native, living in Texas and this was sinfully delish!! Only gave 4 stars because service wasn't up to par! The ladies behind the counter were snippy and unfriendly!
(4)Eliseo V.
$5.75 for a beef taco? Save your money from this underwhelming meat and get over to the nearest taco bell. Slow service and a rude cashier to boot, there's nothing worth coming back for.
(1)Karin G.
The pineapple salsa and horchata were probably the best versions of each I've ever tasted--pineapple salsa just spicy enough and the horchata not too sweet. Delightful! On the negative side, we found the prices to be a bit high and resented swatting flies throughout our unexpectedly expensive dinners (since the restaurant is open air).
(3)Nathalie M.
First time here. Visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center and was craving tacos. Despite reviews we came here. This place is a 3.5 (flavor & price). We ordered (2ppl) 2 orders of tacos, 1drink, 1dessert and a side of chips and guacamole= $40. If it was cheaper, I would of given it a 4-Star. They are GF friendly :) Tacos were delicious, dessert (lilikoi mousse) was good, the fresh strawberry lemonade was yummy, but the guacamole and salsa was ehhh.
(3)JA R.
Friendly staff but ridiculously high prices. And if those are the best fish tacos in Hawaii I pity the rest.
(2)Ashley V.
NS Taco's a.k.a. "Killer Taco's"! If this is your first time here, the cashier will let you know what's popular/good here, as well as give you samples of their dessert and drinks! *BOOM KANANI! That is such an awesome way to not only promote their food & drink products, but to really win your customer's over! After all, who DOESN'T like free samples??! I ordered their taco plate, which included 2 taco's of choice (sweet pork, steak, chicken, fish, or shrimp), Mexican/Spanish rice, and beans of choice (kidney or black). Although I did NOT find their rice or beans very appetizing, their sweet pork taco's we're VERY good! The meat was tender and very flavorful! The fish taco's, which supposedly had been voted #1 in Hawaii we're pretty good as well. I've had better fish taco's in the mainland, but I would definitely have to agree that it's the best in Hawaii (so far). One thing I absolutely LOVED about NS Taco's is their Horchata!! Man oh man it's good! And if you order the Large Horchata you are winning! Believe me! There's no financial loss here. It's worth every penny with the size of that bad boy of utter horchata deliciousness! I also bought their coconut flan and their tres leches cake. I'm not a fan of coconut, but I do love flan, so it balanced out. I don't think I'd order it again, but I have no regrets in buying it. Their tres leches cake was pretty good! They may have doused it with a lot of condensed milk and a bit of strawberry syrup, but I mopped the whole slice and would have killed another if I wasn't so bloated from my entire lunch! The restaurant is located on the side of the road on the only road coming out of Punaluu, so you really can't miss it. Just look for "Killer Taco's" across Masa's Mart! The interior has a local vibe to it that appealed to me, but is probably more geared for the tourist. I came during lunch time and the place was rather packed, but it did look like all tourist and no locals. As a local, I'm not quite sure how I feel about that.. Haha. But I guess it's nice to play tourist every once in a while. My Dad ordered the fish burrito, and it was stuffed with fish and rice, and came with a green sauce that was just so good with the burrito! I think next time I come back (whenever that may be), that's what I'll order! Maybe exempt the fish and add the sweet pork though... Overall their food's not bad, the prices are rather "pricey" (but they do tend to execute quality along with their prices, for the most part), and the service is rather great! If you're in Punaluu and craving Mexican, I'd shoot this place as a suggestion to you.
(4)Leah H.
Best fish tacos , the fish , the sauce , the setting all perfect , love this place !!!
(5)Tim P.
Pork nachos & fish tacos @ this place are to say the least, terrific!!. You just gotta try this place. AWESOME!!!
(5)Marie A.
They're known for their fish tacos, but I got a fish burrito... and it was pretty good! A lot of people are complaining that this isn't 'authentic' Mexican food.. who cares? It's a beach-side taco stand in a touristy area in HAWAII. Hear that? HAWAII. Not Mexico. HAWAII. You are NOT going to find authentic Mexican on an island in the middle of the ocean, so give it up now and enjoy your dang tacos. Anyway, portions were huge and service was friendly - couldn't really ask for anything more. Also, loved the atmosphere here... it's definitely got that laid back, surfer vibe. Great place to stop for a quick, cheap meal.
(4)Deedee A.
I got the fish burrito and it was super salty ... And little chunks of fish . Didn't look fresh . Boyfriend got the shrimp taste alright .
(2)GG Y.
As a local person from the other side of the island I must say I was weary to eat here as it seemed like a tourist trap. That's where I was wrong. I am so glad I decided eating was more important than my ignorance. I had their fish salad and the hubby had the shredded beef burrito. Both fantastic. Their hot sauce was amazing (if you like things hot...and let me warn you...it's hot). My advice try it out, you won't be disappointed. Oh and try their liliko I smoothly is a must try!!
(5)LB D.
Grilled Fish tacos are soooooooooo good. They are fresh, full of flavor and filling. It's a must for meal time!!! I had the chips and salsa rather than the beans and rice. NOTE: after eating everywhere around this island and others I found the price to be competitive, but the tacos were UNMATCHED! They provide samples of new menu items, too!
(5)Lisa G.
I really liked this place! Located in Hau'ula, it's open later than other places in the area and saved me one night when I was hungry! They have a little parking lot, located next to Longs. The lady who took our order was so nice! She let my friends try a bunch of samples of pretty much every dessert and drink on the menu. We had the pork nachos, some burritos, tacos, and quesadillas. The sweet pork is pretty tasty. The shrimp is good as well. The green sauce is amazing!!! I don't know what it is, but if I knew how good it was, I would have asked for more!!! Solid place with great customer service!
(3)Kelly A.
Taco Tuesday on Sunday? This is your best bet if you're heading to North Shore Tacos and live in Waikiki. Hey, let's be honest.....nobody makes it to North Shore during the week unless you live there. Traffic can be a... "bear"...(you know I want to say it).....but the fish tacos are worth the hassle! I love the outside "hut" seating which gives you a truly authentic Mexican feel as you watch the traffic go by...LOL! All joking aside, it's a fun and breezy place even if you can't see the ocean. Oh, while you're there....you've got to try the Coca-Cola...in a GLASS BOTTLE! Talk about a blast from the past that makes you feel like a kid again! Too bad I can't return the bottle for 10₵ like the good ole days:) The staff was super friendly and the prices were good. They're in the midst of updating their counter menu but stated their hand held menu is up-to-date. Give it a whirl and you won't be disappointed. Mmmm...Sabe bien!
(4)Jenny C.
This was the first time I had ever tried fish tacos. We were out for a drive and saw this place and decided to give it a try. They girl at the counter was awesome! She made us sample every single desert as well as the fresh juice. The fish tacos were so delicious and it didn't seem like a lot of food but it was really filling! I loved the atmosphere here. It was very tropical. They have plenty of seating inside and out. Everything is fresh and tastes home-made! Love this place!
(5)Ashlee B.
Admittedly, I am spoiled when it comes to Mexican food and the signs saying "#1 Fish Tacos" seemed like a challenge and I was not disappointed. The fish tacos were amazing. The portions were just right and the relaxed ambiance was perfect. What stood out the most was the staff - good service and great food to back it up is priceless. I will make this a regular stop every time I visit the North Shore!
(5)Heather H.
I'm a huge lover of fish tacos - these were the BEST FREAKING TACOS I had ever had in Hawaii and the states! Grilled with white sauce on a toasted corn tortilla with actual hot sauce! I poured it over everything happily! I devoured my plate on a nice little patio with other food trucks on the lot and mini coconut stand. My only gripe, as with all the other food here is the cost of meals. I got two tacos with chips n' salsa for $14. Oh well, when in Rome, er Hawaii.
(5)Bridget G.
This place was so effing delicious! !! We ordered steak burrito, chicken burrito, fish tacos and the keiki meal cheese quesadila. Everything was flavorful and they gave us samples of the best desserts.. we all got 1.of each the ginger, pineapple and strawberry lemonade. Super yummy.. can't wait to go back I'm craving it already!!
(5)Ina T.
Came here specifically for dessert and I chose the lilikoi & chocolate mouse... pricey for $8 but it's really good and worth it if you like mousse.
(5)Janina S.
Food gets one star but the blond rude girl working there should get minus 5 stars. She is short, blond and seems to be some kind of manager as we saw and heard her bossing around the staff in such a nasty way. Poor employees ! She was extremely nasty, arrogant and condescending to us as her guests too and for 45 dollars (2 people ) you don't want to get your day ruined by such terrible attitude and zero customer service ! We are local and will NEVER go back !
(1)Jenni N.
Best fish tacos ever! Friendly service & yummy key lime cheese cake! Enjoy surf videos while eating!
(5)Rhoda H.
We ordered the fish tacos with a side of chips and salsa. Fresh ingredients, warm flour tortilla, good salsa. I was a bit disappointed with how little fish there was in the taco considering the price. We paid with a card via square...no option but to leave a tip. Funny because we had to pick up our own food from the counter and then dispose of our rubbish when we left. The crew was friendly though.
(3)Rev G.
Shrimp tacos and ginger lemonade were great. Very friendly people, chill environment. Great stop.
(5)Janelle A.
We drove from Honolulu just for this. It was worth it! Service was amazing and the food even better. Free samples sold us on drinks and dessert. This is now on my must do list for Oahu.
(5)Pat Q.
Fun little place where you can sit outside at picnic tables under big umbrellas and enjoy the fab weather. The food is served from a food truck so it is very causal. We had the fish tacos. They were grilled and personally I prefer my fish to be fried but they were good, not exceptional but good. I agree with other reviews that the food is priced too high. For the #1 which is two tacos, black beans and rice all served in a little aluminum pan was $13.50.
(3)Reed B.
At first, I couldn't see how this place possibly could stay in business. The drive thru menu and mic system was broken and the first time you get a glimpse of the menu is when you order at the window. Once in you're in line, the raised curb blocks any escape, so be prepared to wait. We ordered a total of 4 fish tacos. We also ordered 1 order of chips and salsa and 1 order of beans and rice (side orders are just $1 more). Anyway, the grand total was $26, which seemed a bit high. From start to finish, we were in the drive thru for over 20 minutes which feels like an eternity, especially when you're hungry. Best advice - go when you're not starving or in a rush and just chill out under their patio. Let's get to the good part, the food. The tacos made up for the wait. The fresh ingredients (lettuce, tomatoes, and onions) along with the perfectly seasoned fish with green sauce were crowd pleasers. The red hot sauce made the tacos taste even better. The black beans and rice were very good as well. Our girls loved it! So if you're not in a hurry and want fresh, local food then try North Shore Tacos. If you're looking for something quick and fast, then head to L&L up the road.
(4)Paige G.
Great shrimp tacos!!!! Pineapple tiki drink is awesome! Would totally recommend this place to anyone. Also have amazing pineapple salsa
(5)Cessna T.
North Shore Tacos is the best! I love their guacamole and pork tacos. They're so sweet and savory! I wasn't too crazy about the rice and beans but I ate most of them anyway cuz I'm a growing pup! I was only allowed outside at the picnic tables...so if you bring your puppy, you'll have to sit outside! All in all, they're some of the best tacos and burritos on Oahu! Next time, I'm gonna ask my mom and dad to give me the fish tacos! They're excited to try them too! Oh, and the sodas are ginormous! I couldn't drink it cuz dogs can't have caffeine, but my momma enjoyed her big Diet Coke!
(4)S J.
Yes, yes, yes! Great stop for very good tacos. Having been to the food truck, we came here as our last stop on the North Shore. The tacos are amazing, and I had the pork nachos and they were so good.
(5)Michael D.
Wow! Talk about poor service...or no service at all! Waited for 10 minutes in the nearly empty store and then another 20 minutes in the drive-thru waiting for another car waiting to NOT be served... meanwhile, u hear rap music being played in the kitchen, as I had to back out of the drive-thru lane. Were u guys getting high in there?! Puhleese!
(1)Davinie F.
We had pork and fish tacos. I had a pineapple drink. lOvED it all. It was the best eating in Laie headed toward the north shore for sure.
(5)Christopher B.
This was a previous review that I drafted and never posted. Food was decent. I had the pork quesadillas with black beans. I'm always sketchy about random sauces, so I tried to inquire as to what base the surfer sauce was. The cashier told me she doesn't know, and them responded with "you can't know it's a secret." I'm sorry, but we are not asking for your recipe, we want to know whether or not we even like what the main ingredient of your sauce is. Not To mention if someone was checking for allergies. The snippy little cashier responded with I could tell her if I had allergies, and she could tell me if it would affect it. So what is the story here? She either knows what is in it, and is a lying fool - or she just is just not that bright.
(3)Marissa M.
Terrible service! Don't waste your time coming here. Waited over an hour for our food and they gave it away to someone else. Lady at the cash register gave me such a bad time when I went to ask for my food.
(1)Katherine R.
The taste is good but it is VERY pricey. The tables weren't clean at all and the garbage cans were overflowing. I understand it can get busy but it's not a good look when customers are cleaning the tables themselves. The service at the counter was mediocre. Probably won't be back due to price. I can get a cheaper meal, which is just as tasty, elsewhere. Two serves of pork tacos and one drink cost almost $35.........
(3)Carlos M.
Grabbed some drive through last night, which is a rare, great little feature which is really nice after a long day at the beach. However the speed at which our order (and the order of the car in front of us) was delivered was not great. We ordered 3 kid meals, a beach burrito, 2 fish tacos and nachos. This took about 20-25 minutes from the time we finished the order to when we drove off. The food is basic Mexican, it's good and it's reasonably priced BUT if you are looking for an amazing fish taco experience this is not it. The fish (marlin I believe) was dry and the shell was store bought, tasted like paper and was drenched with juice and sauce making the whole thing messy to deal with. To be honest this was about on par with Taco Bell or Del Taco which was disappointing. Will probably try out one of the taco trucks first next time. NOT the best tacos on the island.
(2)Julia C.
This place was great! There is also a food truck in Hailewa. The best is the sweet pork!! We ate at this place a lot while we were there and everything was delicious! I recommend the sweet pork burrito with green sauce, with a side of surf sauce and pineapple salsa! The tacos are really good as well. I had the sweet pork taco and the fish taco. The gnarly nachos are really good to! There pineapple drinks are also delicious but pricey.
(5)Rizzle N.
The shrimp in my tacos were poached to perfection. I thought they were tasty. My husband got ahi fish tacos. He wasn't impressed...
(3)Rachel Z.
The service was great. The ladies at the front were willing to help us decide. Also we got to try a lot of free samples of their drinks and desserts. The food was really good and the portion was large! I'd come here again!
(5)Ally P.
Delicious! We got the shrimp burrito with extra shrimp and the green sauce. Holy flavor! Soo Ono! We met the owner who is super nice, which made our experience that much better. A definite must try while on the island.
(4)Kevin H.
I love the tacos here, I have been a couple of times now. I am okay with driving out of my way to eat here... I personally think it is that good. I had a great talk with a guy that turned out to be the owner of North Shore Tacos, Joey. It really made me like this place even more. The talk is what really prompted me to post this. He is the epitome of the American dream. He told me his story, basically started the business in the negative and you can tell his passion for the business and customer satisfaction. Honestly, I knew it was amazing being that I am okay with driving ~20 minutes out of my way to go. He explained to me that he chooses to take a 6% hit by purchasing the freshest fish, ingredients... Which may explain a slightly higher price, which is what a lot of the negative comments on here seem to be about. If you want quality food, quality ingredients, paying bit more is worth it. Comparing what you get here to Taco Bell is ridiculous as one person posted... Seriously? Taco Bell food is made in a test tube... There is no comparison in quality and I am not sure there is a restaurant is comparable on the North Shore. He also mentioned that doesn't even cut himself a check if he doesn't have to. We talked about how everyone out there wants nothing for nothing, but only through hard work and often times plenty of risk, only will you reach your goal, very cool guy. When the brains behind the operation has that kind of passion, it makes me want to support it more. So next time in Hauula check out this place or the truck in Haleiwa. You will not be disappointed!
(5)Joe M.
On a recent trip to Oahu, while driving around aimlessly, we pulled into North Shore Tacos because my gf had never had a fish taco before. She wasn't disappointed, and neither was I. We had the duo, which comes with two tacos, rice, and beans (black or pinto). Had the ginger lemonade, too, which was great. Both tacos were made from different fish: ahi and mahi mahi. I rate on food only, and give it a 4 star. We went back, just because we were in the neighborhood and had enjoyed the meal. Had one fish taco and one pulled pork: excellent also. The place is run by a Brazillian woman, and everyone was pleasant as can be. We enjoyed our lunches.
(4)Lisa M.
We ordered the fish tacos and the shrimp tacos. Both were good and very fresh, but the fish tacos were the stand out better entree. This was perfect lunchtime portions and prices.
(4)Caitie A.
Good food. Awkward staff... You'll know what I mean. Hahah. I'm sure they mean well but they are oddly unprofessional.
(3)Monique G.
I eat tacos constantly in California. I'm used to the tacos out here. These were not like anything out here, but in a great way! I liked the way they packaged the tacos in a neat little foil pouch... Sweet pork tacos-- sweet, cheesy, delicious... Ahi fish tacos-- amazing!! Rice and beans-- great sides! I added their hot sauce which was in Coke bottles near the front. Very hot (be careful!). Washed it all down with a Mexican Coke. The girl at the front counter was sweet and friendly; we went with her recommendations. I wish we could eat here at least once a week, but we are from Southern California. We will be back someday!
(5)Andy G.
I'd give it 4.5 stars. This place is awesome. The hot sauce is great. Thoroughly enjoyed it and a great place to stop if you are headed up the east side. With that said, the fish tacos weren't the best. Honestly, ahi should never be thoroughly cooked. Seared maybe, but not cooked. I think lighter fish like mahi are better for tacos, but that's just my opinion. The steak tacos were perfect though and I'll certainly be back for those.
(4)Jaki W.
Definitely not the best fish tacos I had on the trip. For $13, 2 small tacos, dry rice and beans. I won't be coming here again. Their spicy sauce is really good though.
(2)Stephen L.
We always take a drive and come down here to get our taco fix!! North shore tacos is delicious. Even though there's a truck situated some where in north shore, nothing beats going to the actual restaurant and eating outside. The fish, shrimp, and sweet pork tacos are great. Pineapple drink is amazing too.
(5)Joy P.
As the BF and I had to head into town for an errand from the west side we noticed that the traffic coming back was ridiculously bad. We decided to go around the other side of the island and make a day of it. We initially wanted to go to grab some food at Papa Ole's in Hauula but when we got there, it was pretty packed (tourist bus stopped there). So we decided to go across the parking lot to North Shore Tacos to check it out. The fish of the day was ahi so I ordered the Ahi Tacos and opted for the rice and black beans over chips and salsa that comes with that entree. The BF ordered the Shredded Beef Nachos with Black Beans. Both were DEELISH!!! They have a little table with bottles of house hot sauce... YUMMM! For dessert I ordered the Tres Leches cake. Hmmm... didn't care for it too much, but no biggie because our food was Bomb! I've got to admit that looking at the prices left me a little shell shocked but when you're hungry you tend to overlook that stuff a little. I'm glad we finally tried this place tho. I'll be back for sure.
(4)Elena S.
Tacos are one of my favorite things, and we stopped here 3 times in one week because it was SO good. Their Ahi tacos, shrimp tacos, and pork burritos were beyond delicious. Salsa- both pineapple and regular was tasty, and their guacamole is really fresh! Their pineapple drinks were so refreshing- quite filling too! I have never had anything like it. Not only are their food and drinks amazing, their hot sauce (homemade) is hands down, the best hot sauce I have ever had. Spicy and extremely flavorful. North Shore Tacos- you guys are the best taco place we have ever had. Cant wait for the next time we are in oahu!
(5)Camille C.
Not the best fish tacos I have ever had, but it got the job done when I was craving it. The drive thru option was great! I would definitely go back again if I find myself in that area. ...I'm still on the hunt for the best fish tacos on this island!
(4)Mandy B.
Since we've been in Hawaii, I've found a new love of fish tacos and my husband is obsessed with the pork tacos here. North Shore Tacos jumped out at us as we drove by on the way to our hotel - it's the only place I've seen with a drive-thru! We decided to stop in and we weren't disappointed. The Ahi fish tacos were cooked perfectly and the sweet pork tacos were great as well. Since it was our first time there, the cashier had us try a few of their smoothie flavors and they were super refreshing and juicy. Make sure to try the pineapple salsa!
(5)Chris V.
These are some pretty good tacos, likely the best on the north shore (as the sign says), but are there any other places around here selling tacos? Anyway, tried the sweet pork and chicken. Sweet pork was best. Tacos are good size. Get 3-4 if your hungery though. The Ginger lemonade wad OK, large is a huge bucket. Taco plate comes with rice and beans, which makes for a decent sized lunch for about $10. The homemade hot sauce was good and very, very hot! Also some good looking desserts that i will have to try next time. Nice beachmosphere too.
(4)Diane M.
They have good foods but personally I think they are about 20% over priced. Maybe they need more competition? Not too many reasonable places to eat in Hauula.
(4)Curtis H.
Friendly competent staff, upgraded tables, same great fish tacos. Always a good choice on North Shore.
(4)Wendell K.
2 small tacos and a small drink for about $20. If you think that is a fair deal, then read no further since the food was mostly ok. If like me, you think that a bit much, especially when the most expensive taco is listed for $13 bucks on the menu board (and I got charged $14), then you'll understand my shock when I had to pay $19 for the two tacos and a small soda. I have a philosophical problem when I am shown one price but then end up having to pay way more for things that I think should be included. Items like guacamole and sour cream are considered "sides" but you are not told that they cost more. And why did they charge me $2 for a "medium" guacamole without asking me what size I wanted? I know it's small $$, but the feeling I get here screams tourist trap. I could go on and on about what I perceived as sneaky sales tactics to run up my bill and how tourists are being taken advantage of, but I don't want to start any bad karma. Best advice, skip this place.
(1)Galia W.
Best shrimp tacos I've ever had! Top that with super friendly, super fast service and fresh delicious fruit juice and so far, this is the best food I've had on the North Shore. Whatever that green creamy sauce is, get that! It's amazing!!!
(5)Jessica J.
Wow what a find!!! As we were cruising around the island in our convertible mustang we began to work up an appetite and came across this place! The sign #1 Fish Tacos got me in. I ordered the fish tacos & pork tacos. The pork were the highlight although the fish very awesome as well there was just something about the sauce with the pork!! The tacos came with a side of salsa & chips and we ordered some guac so yummy! Loved this place and would recommend to anyone in the area to stop & grab some tacos!
(5)Scott I.
First time here. Food was great. We ordered the sweet pork burrito. It came with this creamy sauce that was yummy. The sweet pork was a little on the sweet side but was still really good. My daughter ordered the chicken toco. I ended up eating one of them. It was tasty and the chicken was moist. The rice and beans were a little bland. Overall it was a great experience. We enjoyed the food there. If we're on that side of the island again, we would definitely go back.
(4)Hillary J.
The tacos are underwhelming. But the hours are excellent. Not going to complain.
(3)Darin O.
Here is my case in point that in general- Mexican Food is better made and tastes better in California or NY or Chicago. There was nothing wrong about the food parse but it just was not prepared beyond an expectation or have more taste. The chicken taco I found to be soggy/ soggier than other tacos. The pork had extra fat instead of all meat on the taco. The beef was just cooked and pulled apart well but nothing special or flavorful about it. Fish taco to me was just unappealing. Vegetarian taco fillings were just ok- no complaint other than I could not tell what it was supposed to be that they used as protein. The chips seem to be normal. Eat it with salsa and it is just normal to me. They use these tin plates. I don't know if this is better or worse/ cheaper or more cost effective. But it is what they choose to do. Please don't get me wrong. The food was fresh and seemed to be made the way that they want to make it. Again- some friends that go to BYU suggested the place and say that it is so much better than BYU Cafe food. I take them at their word and know what they mean by enjoying something that is not Univ Caf food. It is just food to me - not a great place or great food but it is better than fast food and way better than caf food. The store itself looks great. Makes one feel like open and friendly picnic type feelings. The area in general looks way open. Both the store is open walled so that people can feel the breezeyness of the area and the area there that now has Longs is very open in feeling where the lot makes a welcoming emotional statement. When I have to go to BYU for a meeting- this place is on my radar If I am there for many trips , it'll be one of the places that I would go to in a rotation. If I was taking guests up to BYU or PCC and needed to feed people- I would ask if people would enjoy an open air eating area or an inside place and then make the choices from that (based on the age of the people generally). So if the people want an indoor type setting I would take them somewhere else first and just point out the restaurant out while driving - which is so easy to do.
(3)Mike And Leslie B.
We were enjoying a nice afternoon on the bike and decided to stop by for some yummy tacos. We tried their tacos before from their truck in Haleiwa, so we pretty much knew they served quality foods. We ordered the chips and pineapple salsa and a plate of shrimp tacos with pinto beans and rice. The pineapple salsa was to die for and the chips tasted fresh. Of course we would have preferred if the chips were a bit warm, not cold, but that's fine...not many places take that extra step. The tacos were really fresh and came loaded with plenty of ingredients. The service from the cute girls was great as well....we'll be back for sure. Enjoy!!!
(4)Kristie Y.
I loved their shredded chicken nachos and their pineapple drink serves in a pineapple! Delicious! Too bad my hubby didn't really care for his burrito though.
(4)Barbara D.
We almost passed this place up because it looked like a chain restaurant with a drive-thru to boot! But we stopped, and thank goodness cuz these tacos are da bomb! Ok, the price is outrageous, so minus 1 star. But my friend devoured the fish tacos, while I devoured the pulled pork ones. Damn, what flavor!!! Chips, salsa and guac were also equally tasty!
(4)Chris L.
For 13 bucks, 2 fish tacos, I expect more fish in it. 90% lettuce with a thin strip of ahi on the bottom. The price shocked me when he rang us up. And the whole time I was eating I was thinking 1 dollar, 1 dollar, 1 dollar every bite, and that left me very disappointed since some of those bites were lettuce only. They tasted good but my gut exploded and I didn't make it home before I had to run into the bathroom at McD's. Been there done that. Not again.
(2)Toni B.
Loved this place!! delicious and fresh fish tacos! A little pricey but in my opinion is inexpensive compared to what you would pay elsewhere on the island. The atmosphere is nice and clean and the people working were super nice as well.
(5)Abe K.
Excellent food and service. One of the best we had. And don't forget to sample their desserts - the caramel flan was outstanding
(5)Raji S.
Great atmosphere. Amazing Pineapple smoothie served in an actual Pineapple. Fish tacos are over rated. Definitely not the best. The shrimp tacos where good. A little pricy but it's a tourist spot so that is expected. The view from the patio and the little chickens running around are awesome. Good spot to watch the sun set. 2 stars for food/$ and 4 stars for location and view.
(3)RJ E.
NOT #1 as they claim to be, not even serviceable. Take the drive and GO2 KILLER TACOS in the real North Shore! They broke the jaw, as the locals say. Mahalo!
(1)Azadeh K.
Who has time to drive all the way to Haaula just to grab some expensive, yet tasty Fish Taco's? hmmm a lot of folks apparently lol Yumm - ~awesome green surf sauce! its like a dip of heaven for a fish taco or whatever you get with it! ~they're secret hot sauce is not a secret on the hot part! its super spicy but adds a kick when adding it to your choice of food ~great spacious seating, & there is no need for AC! The breeze will just do! plus theres outside benches to seat on as well! ~fish taco's are yummy, not oh-wow-must-have type, but deliciously enough to enjoy ~burrito size is huge, (wife ordered the sweet pork burrito I think..) and its fulfilling, so no problem there! ~super friendly customer service, the ladies there were awesome! Eh - x - expensive, so if your looking for a cheap taco, burrito or any type of eats here, then Taco Bell is your best bet, unfortunately you will have to drive very very...and I mean very far back into civilization to get that, b/c its no where near on this end of the island x - they're horchata is a NO GO, sorry but its no where near made fresh, it taste super powdery, and no where near refreshing, yes reason of lost stars on this review. x - ordered they're nacho's with black beans, which was good, just wish they're cheese was melted nicely, it tasted like fake melted cheese /: Overall, my experience food wise was okay, maybe its because the price turned me off real quick, and the portions did not sum up to what I would spend my money on. But the workers there was friendly, and it had a great atmosphere, which is the reason for my 3 star rating. But tourist and some folks claim they have the best fish taco's, so that should say something /: Anyways, Happy Fish Taco Eats Yelpers, try it! you might like it! (=
(3)Leolani W.
Well when you are ordering they let you try a bunch of stuff. Ask what the price of the pineapple stuff is before ordering it. It comes in a pineapple and its good but it's "market price" and we paid like 10 bucks for it. It's not that good. Also my daughter found a hair in it and didn't finish it. (that's after finding a hair in her quesadillia, which I told her might be the cheese strings) Anyway our bill for 3 people was 71 dollars. My husband did order the shrimp burrito with 12 shrimp which was probably 20 bucks. but the meal did not live up to the high cost of it. The most expensive meal I paid for the whole trip and it was just ok. The little sauces were really good though. Would probably not eat here again.
(2)Anita N.
We discovered this gem on our way to Turtle Bay Resort. If it's your first time in they have you sample all their specialty drinks and desserts. My daughter and I fell in love with the ginger lemon aid. The first time we had the pork nachos which were to die for and after ziplining we came back and tried the pork tacos also delicious. A no-frills taco joint and we just love it definitely worth a stop!
(4)Alice N.
Minus two stars for not enough shrimp and fish filling. $44 dollars for two people is ridiculously high price and mediocre food. I got one shrimp and one fish taco with chips and salsa...mostly lettuce and tomato inside. Flavor was ok. Needs more fish/shrimp inside! If the portion was bigger my rating would have been higher. Chips/salsa yuck! Stale and salsa was boring. Hubby's burrito was good and big he got lucky. Not sure how the bill got so high...the pineapple drink must be $10? Crazy! Haha good thing we on vacation. Save your money. I should have skipped the strawberry lemonade, waste money.
(3)E I.
North Shore Tacos quite frankly the expectations were set pretty high with the 3.5 star reviews. I was informed that most if not all items are prepared fresh daily. I will say thank you for your efforts but your fish tacos were ok. Beans and rice did not meet expectations. I will stick with Dukes KAI fish tacos. Dukes are second to none in the island of O'ahu!
(1)Jon C.
Roadside stand is on the pricey side. Perfectly acceptable food at unreasonable prices. Yet another establishment that thinks because they are in Hawaii they must overcharge. We stopped here because my daughter was having a caloric emergency. She couldn't make it another 5 miles down to the shrimp truck. Just out of her mind. She was much happier after she started in on the children's quesadilla. The chips and salsa were very good. The place receives a surprising amount of traffic. They also have some creative desserts and drinks that they will let you sample. Not a bad place by any stretch, but it's not exactly on the value curve as a whole.
(3)Nefertari M.
Had the chicken burrito w/ green sauce, baked enchilada style and it was to die for!! I'm a California native, living in Texas and this was sinfully delish!! Only gave 4 stars because service wasn't up to par! The ladies behind the counter were snippy and unfriendly!
(4)Eliseo V.
$5.75 for a beef taco? Save your money from this underwhelming meat and get over to the nearest taco bell. Slow service and a rude cashier to boot, there's nothing worth coming back for.
(1)Ashley V.
NS Taco's a.k.a. "Killer Taco's"! If this is your first time here, the cashier will let you know what's popular/good here, as well as give you samples of their dessert and drinks! *BOOM KANANI! That is such an awesome way to not only promote their food & drink products, but to really win your customer's over! After all, who DOESN'T like free samples??! I ordered their taco plate, which included 2 taco's of choice (sweet pork, steak, chicken, fish, or shrimp), Mexican/Spanish rice, and beans of choice (kidney or black). Although I did NOT find their rice or beans very appetizing, their sweet pork taco's we're VERY good! The meat was tender and very flavorful! The fish taco's, which supposedly had been voted #1 in Hawaii we're pretty good as well. I've had better fish taco's in the mainland, but I would definitely have to agree that it's the best in Hawaii (so far). One thing I absolutely LOVED about NS Taco's is their Horchata!! Man oh man it's good! And if you order the Large Horchata you are winning! Believe me! There's no financial loss here. It's worth every penny with the size of that bad boy of utter horchata deliciousness! I also bought their coconut flan and their tres leches cake. I'm not a fan of coconut, but I do love flan, so it balanced out. I don't think I'd order it again, but I have no regrets in buying it. Their tres leches cake was pretty good! They may have doused it with a lot of condensed milk and a bit of strawberry syrup, but I mopped the whole slice and would have killed another if I wasn't so bloated from my entire lunch! The restaurant is located on the side of the road on the only road coming out of Punaluu, so you really can't miss it. Just look for "Killer Taco's" across Masa's Mart! The interior has a local vibe to it that appealed to me, but is probably more geared for the tourist. I came during lunch time and the place was rather packed, but it did look like all tourist and no locals. As a local, I'm not quite sure how I feel about that.. Haha. But I guess it's nice to play tourist every once in a while. My Dad ordered the fish burrito, and it was stuffed with fish and rice, and came with a green sauce that was just so good with the burrito! I think next time I come back (whenever that may be), that's what I'll order! Maybe exempt the fish and add the sweet pork though... Overall their food's not bad, the prices are rather "pricey" (but they do tend to execute quality along with their prices, for the most part), and the service is rather great! If you're in Punaluu and craving Mexican, I'd shoot this place as a suggestion to you.
(4)Leah H.
Best fish tacos , the fish , the sauce , the setting all perfect , love this place !!!
(5)Tim P.
Pork nachos & fish tacos @ this place are to say the least, terrific!!. You just gotta try this place. AWESOME!!!
(5)Marie A.
They're known for their fish tacos, but I got a fish burrito... and it was pretty good! A lot of people are complaining that this isn't 'authentic' Mexican food.. who cares? It's a beach-side taco stand in a touristy area in HAWAII. Hear that? HAWAII. Not Mexico. HAWAII. You are NOT going to find authentic Mexican on an island in the middle of the ocean, so give it up now and enjoy your dang tacos. Anyway, portions were huge and service was friendly - couldn't really ask for anything more. Also, loved the atmosphere here... it's definitely got that laid back, surfer vibe. Great place to stop for a quick, cheap meal.
(4)Karin G.
The pineapple salsa and horchata were probably the best versions of each I've ever tasted--pineapple salsa just spicy enough and the horchata not too sweet. Delightful! On the negative side, we found the prices to be a bit high and resented swatting flies throughout our unexpectedly expensive dinners (since the restaurant is open air).
(3)Nathalie M.
First time here. Visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center and was craving tacos. Despite reviews we came here. This place is a 3.5 (flavor & price). We ordered (2ppl) 2 orders of tacos, 1drink, 1dessert and a side of chips and guacamole= $40. If it was cheaper, I would of given it a 4-Star. They are GF friendly :) Tacos were delicious, dessert (lilikoi mousse) was good, the fresh strawberry lemonade was yummy, but the guacamole and salsa was ehhh.
(3)JA R.
Friendly staff but ridiculously high prices. And if those are the best fish tacos in Hawaii I pity the rest.
(2)Deedee A.
I got the fish burrito and it was super salty ... And little chunks of fish . Didn't look fresh . Boyfriend got the shrimp taste alright .
(2)GG Y.
As a local person from the other side of the island I must say I was weary to eat here as it seemed like a tourist trap. That's where I was wrong. I am so glad I decided eating was more important than my ignorance. I had their fish salad and the hubby had the shredded beef burrito. Both fantastic. Their hot sauce was amazing (if you like things hot...and let me warn you...it's hot). My advice try it out, you won't be disappointed. Oh and try their liliko I smoothly is a must try!!
(5)LB D.
Grilled Fish tacos are soooooooooo good. They are fresh, full of flavor and filling. It's a must for meal time!!! I had the chips and salsa rather than the beans and rice. NOTE: after eating everywhere around this island and others I found the price to be competitive, but the tacos were UNMATCHED! They provide samples of new menu items, too!
(5)Lisa G.
I really liked this place! Located in Hau'ula, it's open later than other places in the area and saved me one night when I was hungry! They have a little parking lot, located next to Longs. The lady who took our order was so nice! She let my friends try a bunch of samples of pretty much every dessert and drink on the menu. We had the pork nachos, some burritos, tacos, and quesadillas. The sweet pork is pretty tasty. The shrimp is good as well. The green sauce is amazing!!! I don't know what it is, but if I knew how good it was, I would have asked for more!!! Solid place with great customer service!
(3)Kelly A.
Taco Tuesday on Sunday? This is your best bet if you're heading to North Shore Tacos and live in Waikiki. Hey, let's be honest.....nobody makes it to North Shore during the week unless you live there. Traffic can be a... "bear"...(you know I want to say it).....but the fish tacos are worth the hassle! I love the outside "hut" seating which gives you a truly authentic Mexican feel as you watch the traffic go by...LOL! All joking aside, it's a fun and breezy place even if you can't see the ocean. Oh, while you're there....you've got to try the Coca-Cola...in a GLASS BOTTLE! Talk about a blast from the past that makes you feel like a kid again! Too bad I can't return the bottle for 10₵ like the good ole days:) The staff was super friendly and the prices were good. They're in the midst of updating their counter menu but stated their hand held menu is up-to-date. Give it a whirl and you won't be disappointed. Mmmm...Sabe bien!
(4)Jenny C.
This was the first time I had ever tried fish tacos. We were out for a drive and saw this place and decided to give it a try. They girl at the counter was awesome! She made us sample every single desert as well as the fresh juice. The fish tacos were so delicious and it didn't seem like a lot of food but it was really filling! I loved the atmosphere here. It was very tropical. They have plenty of seating inside and out. Everything is fresh and tastes home-made! Love this place!
(5)Ashlee B.
Admittedly, I am spoiled when it comes to Mexican food and the signs saying "#1 Fish Tacos" seemed like a challenge and I was not disappointed. The fish tacos were amazing. The portions were just right and the relaxed ambiance was perfect. What stood out the most was the staff - good service and great food to back it up is priceless. I will make this a regular stop every time I visit the North Shore!
(5)Heather H.
I'm a huge lover of fish tacos - these were the BEST FREAKING TACOS I had ever had in Hawaii and the states! Grilled with white sauce on a toasted corn tortilla with actual hot sauce! I poured it over everything happily! I devoured my plate on a nice little patio with other food trucks on the lot and mini coconut stand. My only gripe, as with all the other food here is the cost of meals. I got two tacos with chips n' salsa for $14. Oh well, when in Rome, er Hawaii.
(5)Bridget G.
This place was so effing delicious! !! We ordered steak burrito, chicken burrito, fish tacos and the keiki meal cheese quesadila. Everything was flavorful and they gave us samples of the best desserts.. we all got 1.of each the ginger, pineapple and strawberry lemonade. Super yummy.. can't wait to go back I'm craving it already!!
(5)Ina T.
Came here specifically for dessert and I chose the lilikoi & chocolate mouse... pricey for $8 but it's really good and worth it if you like mousse.
(5)Janina S.
Food gets one star but the blond rude girl working there should get minus 5 stars. She is short, blond and seems to be some kind of manager as we saw and heard her bossing around the staff in such a nasty way. Poor employees ! She was extremely nasty, arrogant and condescending to us as her guests too and for 45 dollars (2 people ) you don't want to get your day ruined by such terrible attitude and zero customer service ! We are local and will NEVER go back !
(1)Jenni N.
Best fish tacos ever! Friendly service & yummy key lime cheese cake! Enjoy surf videos while eating!
(5)Rhoda H.
We ordered the fish tacos with a side of chips and salsa. Fresh ingredients, warm flour tortilla, good salsa. I was a bit disappointed with how little fish there was in the taco considering the price. We paid with a card via square...no option but to leave a tip. Funny because we had to pick up our own food from the counter and then dispose of our rubbish when we left. The crew was friendly though.
(3)Rev G.
Shrimp tacos and ginger lemonade were great. Very friendly people, chill environment. Great stop.
(5)Janelle A.
We drove from Honolulu just for this. It was worth it! Service was amazing and the food even better. Free samples sold us on drinks and dessert. This is now on my must do list for Oahu.
(5)Pat Q.
Fun little place where you can sit outside at picnic tables under big umbrellas and enjoy the fab weather. The food is served from a food truck so it is very causal. We had the fish tacos. They were grilled and personally I prefer my fish to be fried but they were good, not exceptional but good. I agree with other reviews that the food is priced too high. For the #1 which is two tacos, black beans and rice all served in a little aluminum pan was $13.50.
(3)Ally P.
Delicious! We got the shrimp burrito with extra shrimp and the green sauce. Holy flavor! Soo Ono! We met the owner who is super nice, which made our experience that much better. A definite must try while on the island.
(4)Angie P.
Awesome! Fabulous food, great service - I wish we were here longer and could eat here more!!!!!!
(5)Amanda B.
We had the pork nachos, beef burrito, and one fish one shrimp taco. All were amazing. The rice and brown beans were awesome, the guy at the till was very helpful and let us try the lemonade (which we bought) and the desserts (which we tried to buy but were sold out). Very friendly, clean and fresh ingredient meals. Highly recommend.
(5)Reed B.
At first, I couldn't see how this place possibly could stay in business. The drive thru menu and mic system was broken and the first time you get a glimpse of the menu is when you order at the window. Once in you're in line, the raised curb blocks any escape, so be prepared to wait. We ordered a total of 4 fish tacos. We also ordered 1 order of chips and salsa and 1 order of beans and rice (side orders are just $1 more). Anyway, the grand total was $26, which seemed a bit high. From start to finish, we were in the drive thru for over 20 minutes which feels like an eternity, especially when you're hungry. Best advice - go when you're not starving or in a rush and just chill out under their patio. Let's get to the good part, the food. The tacos made up for the wait. The fresh ingredients (lettuce, tomatoes, and onions) along with the perfectly seasoned fish with green sauce were crowd pleasers. The red hot sauce made the tacos taste even better. The black beans and rice were very good as well. Our girls loved it! So if you're not in a hurry and want fresh, local food then try North Shore Tacos. If you're looking for something quick and fast, then head to L&L up the road.
(4)Paige G.
Great shrimp tacos!!!! Pineapple tiki drink is awesome! Would totally recommend this place to anyone. Also have amazing pineapple salsa
(5)Cessna T.
North Shore Tacos is the best! I love their guacamole and pork tacos. They're so sweet and savory! I wasn't too crazy about the rice and beans but I ate most of them anyway cuz I'm a growing pup! I was only allowed outside at the picnic tables...so if you bring your puppy, you'll have to sit outside! All in all, they're some of the best tacos and burritos on Oahu! Next time, I'm gonna ask my mom and dad to give me the fish tacos! They're excited to try them too! Oh, and the sodas are ginormous! I couldn't drink it cuz dogs can't have caffeine, but my momma enjoyed her big Diet Coke!
(4)S J.
Yes, yes, yes! Great stop for very good tacos. Having been to the food truck, we came here as our last stop on the North Shore. The tacos are amazing, and I had the pork nachos and they were so good.
(5)Michael D.
Wow! Talk about poor service...or no service at all! Waited for 10 minutes in the nearly empty store and then another 20 minutes in the drive-thru waiting for another car waiting to NOT be served... meanwhile, u hear rap music being played in the kitchen, as I had to back out of the drive-thru lane. Were u guys getting high in there?! Puhleese!
(1)Davinie F.
We had pork and fish tacos. I had a pineapple drink. lOvED it all. It was the best eating in Laie headed toward the north shore for sure.
(5)Christopher B.
This was a previous review that I drafted and never posted. Food was decent. I had the pork quesadillas with black beans. I'm always sketchy about random sauces, so I tried to inquire as to what base the surfer sauce was. The cashier told me she doesn't know, and them responded with "you can't know it's a secret." I'm sorry, but we are not asking for your recipe, we want to know whether or not we even like what the main ingredient of your sauce is. Not To mention if someone was checking for allergies. The snippy little cashier responded with I could tell her if I had allergies, and she could tell me if it would affect it. So what is the story here? She either knows what is in it, and is a lying fool - or she just is just not that bright.
(3)Marissa M.
Terrible service! Don't waste your time coming here. Waited over an hour for our food and they gave it away to someone else. Lady at the cash register gave me such a bad time when I went to ask for my food.
(1)Katherine R.
The taste is good but it is VERY pricey. The tables weren't clean at all and the garbage cans were overflowing. I understand it can get busy but it's not a good look when customers are cleaning the tables themselves. The service at the counter was mediocre. Probably won't be back due to price. I can get a cheaper meal, which is just as tasty, elsewhere. Two serves of pork tacos and one drink cost almost $35.........
(3)Carlos M.
Grabbed some drive through last night, which is a rare, great little feature which is really nice after a long day at the beach. However the speed at which our order (and the order of the car in front of us) was delivered was not great. We ordered 3 kid meals, a beach burrito, 2 fish tacos and nachos. This took about 20-25 minutes from the time we finished the order to when we drove off. The food is basic Mexican, it's good and it's reasonably priced BUT if you are looking for an amazing fish taco experience this is not it. The fish (marlin I believe) was dry and the shell was store bought, tasted like paper and was drenched with juice and sauce making the whole thing messy to deal with. To be honest this was about on par with Taco Bell or Del Taco which was disappointing. Will probably try out one of the taco trucks first next time. NOT the best tacos on the island.
(2)Julia C.
This place was great! There is also a food truck in Hailewa. The best is the sweet pork!! We ate at this place a lot while we were there and everything was delicious! I recommend the sweet pork burrito with green sauce, with a side of surf sauce and pineapple salsa! The tacos are really good as well. I had the sweet pork taco and the fish taco. The gnarly nachos are really good to! There pineapple drinks are also delicious but pricey.
(5)Rizzle N.
The shrimp in my tacos were poached to perfection. I thought they were tasty. My husband got ahi fish tacos. He wasn't impressed...
(3)Rachel Z.
The service was great. The ladies at the front were willing to help us decide. Also we got to try a lot of free samples of their drinks and desserts. The food was really good and the portion was large! I'd come here again!
(5)Kevin H.
I love the tacos here, I have been a couple of times now. I am okay with driving out of my way to eat here... I personally think it is that good. I had a great talk with a guy that turned out to be the owner of North Shore Tacos, Joey. It really made me like this place even more. The talk is what really prompted me to post this. He is the epitome of the American dream. He told me his story, basically started the business in the negative and you can tell his passion for the business and customer satisfaction. Honestly, I knew it was amazing being that I am okay with driving ~20 minutes out of my way to go. He explained to me that he chooses to take a 6% hit by purchasing the freshest fish, ingredients... Which may explain a slightly higher price, which is what a lot of the negative comments on here seem to be about. If you want quality food, quality ingredients, paying bit more is worth it. Comparing what you get here to Taco Bell is ridiculous as one person posted... Seriously? Taco Bell food is made in a test tube... There is no comparison in quality and I am not sure there is a restaurant is comparable on the North Shore. He also mentioned that doesn't even cut himself a check if he doesn't have to. We talked about how everyone out there wants nothing for nothing, but only through hard work and often times plenty of risk, only will you reach your goal, very cool guy. When the brains behind the operation has that kind of passion, it makes me want to support it more. So next time in Hauula check out this place or the truck in Haleiwa. You will not be disappointed!
(5)Joe M.
On a recent trip to Oahu, while driving around aimlessly, we pulled into North Shore Tacos because my gf had never had a fish taco before. She wasn't disappointed, and neither was I. We had the duo, which comes with two tacos, rice, and beans (black or pinto). Had the ginger lemonade, too, which was great. Both tacos were made from different fish: ahi and mahi mahi. I rate on food only, and give it a 4 star. We went back, just because we were in the neighborhood and had enjoyed the meal. Had one fish taco and one pulled pork: excellent also. The place is run by a Brazillian woman, and everyone was pleasant as can be. We enjoyed our lunches.
(4)Lisa M.
We ordered the fish tacos and the shrimp tacos. Both were good and very fresh, but the fish tacos were the stand out better entree. This was perfect lunchtime portions and prices.
(4)Caitie A.
Good food. Awkward staff... You'll know what I mean. Hahah. I'm sure they mean well but they are oddly unprofessional.
(3)Crystal C.
Pros: Great meal! The boyfriend had the fish tacos, I had the sweet pork nachos, and our friend got his usual chicken quesadillas. There was plenty of parking. Cons: I got this pineapple drink because you can drink it directly out of the pineapple. It was really gross and pulpy. Although not exactly rude, the guy at the counter also wasn't very helpful.
(4)Chris P.
Best food we had on the North Shore. Incredible fish tacos, very friendly staff and cool spot. Highly recommended.
(5)Ramon B.
As I've said numerous times I'm a regular for a reason
(5)Kim G.
If I said, "I went to Cafe' Rio (or Taco Del Mar) and got you some food", you probably wouldn't even question me. The food was good, but it was extremely familiar right down to the foil containers it's served in. However, the ginger lemonade was life-changing. We went to this location, but they also have a food truck in Hale'iwa
(3)Estevan G.
I tried to like this place since not many places offer the variety of foods that they offer. They just couldn't deliver on any of the base points that makes someone want to return to their establishment. First I'll start off by saying that the pricing is a tad high for what you are getting; and don't be going in a small group cause that easily adds up to be one large bill for food you'll leave less than happy with. Their chips are extremely stale, the beans have no flavor, and same goes for the rice. You also pay 12 dollars for two tacos that contain a few pieces of shrimp on what taste like a store bought tortilla. Secondly if your going to claim to have the best fish tacos try not to bury the fish with lettuce like its a body you just killed. I came in with high expectations and left with "well it was a little bit better than a Taco Bell" realizations. Last I just want to finish that my encounter with the establishment also included finding a plastic tip in my food that left me not wanting to return to the location. Even after bringing it to their attention they just brushed it off like it was no big deal. They might have had at one time amazing tacos but as of now I feel it's not worth the trip or the money. Since you could probably make better ones at home.
(1)Lara W.
Pretty damn tasty fish tacos. Not the best I've had (I am from California and also make my own fish tacos that are pretty killer), but this cute little spot does well and their finished product is flavorful. I did like the green sauce and the hot sauce that they had to accompany the tacos, which had the right balance of fish to veggies. Also, their house made salsa was mild but had a great tomato flavor. I believe they serve whatever fish they get fresh (my tacos were Ahi) and they seem to know what they're doing so you'll get no complaints from me. Oh-and to the lady who thought the pork was too sweet?? You're the lady who folks roll their eyes at and sigh. Seriously-the pork they make is delicious. Oh, btw...anyone bitching about the cost shouldn't bother because locals and tourist's know that the cost of food over here is pricey. Deal with it. This place works and I'd happily recommend it to family and friends.
(4)Annie L.
Totally overrated and a tourist trap. Tacos were expensive and I'm not sure what kind of fish they use but it wasn't all that great. Their famous sauce was ok, nothing to brag about. I'm not comparing this to Mexican food on the mainland. I'm comparing it to other tacos places I've eaten on the island. I've had better fish tacos and burritos in town. This place isn't bad, it's just too overrated to be called #1 fish tacos. And for the price, it's totally not worth it. I'm really disappointed cause we drove from town for this. So only 2 stars for the good desserts and friendly service. Sorry North Shore Tacos....just my honest opinion.
(2)Amy D.
North Shore Tacos.. the name says it all. This is North Shore style "Mexican" food, and not authentic at all. The people there are pretty nice, but it can take them a while to make the food, even though the restaurant wasn't packed. We came in two days in a row (not our choice..) and got the Fish Tacos one day ( yelp.com/biz_photos/nort… ) and the Super Carne Asada Burrito ( yelp.com/biz_photos/nort… ) the next day, both to go. The fish tacos didn't have much flavor, and the fish pieces were really small. The super burrito was also very bland, and not very good. The parking is easy here since there weren't a lot of customers both times we came. However, the lot is shaped strangely, and it could be difficult to get in and out if it gets crowded. At least there is a convenience store across the street to browse while waiting for your food, and also a supermarket in the lot next door, since our orders took over 15 minutes on both days. At least they have a TV on, but it's always showing something surfing related. If you're on vacation to Hawaii, I would highly recommend NOT eating any Mexican food here, since both places I've been were not very good.
(2)Genie B.
We stopped here for lunch because my hubby read good things about it. The 2-fish taco plate with a small side of rice and beans was $13 a plate. The tacos were ok, but disappointing, after having such high expectations. It wasn't bad, it just didn't live up to the hype.
(3)Phillip N.
I really liked this place! The food was a great price and the quality was excellent. I tried a Pork Burrito and a quesadilla. I was a big fan of both. My wife and I split a Pineapple drink that they made inside of a pineapple and it was fun! Their deserts are great. It is hard to save room but try to. The service is your typical slow Hawaiian service. No one is in a hurry here!
(5)Fran A.
Stopped by for lunch after visit to north shore with two teens. Got the cheese quesadillas, pork quesadillas, fish and chicken tacos. The crowd said it was a 3-4 star experience at best. It was good. Flavorful. Good sized portions. Nice help. No ambiance. No beer.
(3)Beth H.
A little spendy, but so is everywhere else. Loved the green surf sauce, homemade hot sauce is awesome! We had the steak nachos (which had a few pieces of fat, would not get the steak again, wasn't worth the price), fresh fish tacos were good, and the sweet pork burrito. The woman working the counter was AWESOME! She took time with each customer to explain the menu, let us taste each dessert and drinks. We got the strawberry lemonade and chocolate mousse.
(5)Rachel C.
Tacos and flan were great! We were given samples of all the desserts by the sweet girl at the counter. All were very yummy. The pineapple tiki is not to be missed. Pineapple blended with ice, and put back into a pineapple for you to dying. Amazing!
(5)Melissa B.
Amazing taste! Very clean! Great staff! They were friendly and very helpful! Also super fast! The bathrooms were clean! It's all open so a great breeze! Pretty cheap! Me and my girl shared a Plate and it was the perfect amount!
(5)Stephanie W.
The only downside to this place was how expensive it was. I usually get the 2 taco+side dish for $10. I've been here four times, though, so I guess it's worth the cost to me! And I'm usually pretty cheap, so that's saying something. They push the fish tacos, which are pretty good, but the sweet pork tacos are absolutely to die for. Absolutely magic. I always order the 2 sweet pork tacos now instead of one pork and one fish, like I did the first time. The atmosphere here is pretty great too. It's open air and has a patio and sometimes there are roosters wandering around. That might sound like a negative, but honestly it's pretty cool to me and adds to the "rural" atmosphere of the surrounding area. The last time I was there one of the employees kept trying to shoo the rooster out, but as soon as she left he came right back in. It was pretty funny. Be sure to let them know if it's your first time because they will give you a ton of samples of their desserts and drinks! The only reason it's a 4 not a 5 star is because of the high price. If they would lower the price by a couple of dollars it'd be 5 star perfection. I would also probably eat there way more often and get quite fat, so maybe it's good that their prices are a little high, heh.
(4)Crystal B.
Far away from town and a bit of a drive to get to this place, but if there's ever was a reload trip well worth the food, this joint would be it. Plenty of open space and seating and a very inexpensive menu with nice flavor and island twist. Such an amazing find. When I get cravings and feel stuck in the hustle and bustle of Honolulu this is definitely the place that makes my taste buds tingle. Make it a day trip and an adventurer! Worth every bite.
(5)Brooke F.
Whenever my husband and I are up near north shore we stop in! Haven't been here since the new look..it must be working for them! When we used to come there was only ever one person there eating while we were.. Now there's an endless line out the door! Which it should be because they have the best fish tacos on island!! We always compare other places and they just fall short.. This place is always our number 1 fish tacos!!
(5)Emily M.
Tried this place out yesterday and everyone got something different. Two different burritos, chicken tacos, quesadilla, and salad, everyone was happy with what they received and the special sauce they add on is yummy. The soda machine was down but two people in our group got the pinnapple drink that came in an actual fruit. I'm not a fan, but everyone in the group that likes pineapple loved it. The actual restaurant is decent, nothing spectacular but the food was quick to come out as well. Overall we would definately eat there again.
(4)Edward I.
While driving aimlessly around the island, we came upon this place and was first very happy they had a restroom, so that was a star right there. Had the two surfin tacos, it was nice and wasn't dried up from cooking. The hotsauce on the side was pretty good and hot, I cooled off after having that. There's a passion fruit drink they had that I liked. Parking wasn't bad. I didn't get the chance to eat anything else, I would have been able to get a better measure of if I did.
(4)Wajih A.
Ordered: 1. Chicken quesadilla 2. Tacos sweet pork/fish 3. Pineapple juice The quesadilla is out of this world. You can see and taste that all the ingredients are fresh. The green sauce is surprisingly good and the hot sauce is awesome. This is a must try restaurant in Oahu
(5)An T.
We stayed close by this place and saw it busy a few times. Reviews were decent so we decided to give it a go. Being on an island I opted for the fish tacos which the clerk assured me was grilled fish not battered fried fish. I didn't expect small tiny chunks of fish resembling tuna at best cat food at worst. Secondly there was so much salt on it, it was inedible. Unfortunately I had ordered it to go otherwise I would have gave it back right then and there so I didn't experience this tragedy until i got home.
(1)Scott P.
Ate here this week and found a razor blade in my taco. No joke. A straight up 2 inch long razor blade. Luckily I got distracted before taking my next bite or I never would have seen it. All they did was give me a new taco and explained that it had apparently fallen out of the pico de gallo dicing machine. Awesome. Thanks for almost making my mouth into a torture scene from the movie Saw. Never going back here as they are obviously at worst cannibals hoping for a gory slice of my tongue, gums, and lips or at best sadists hoping for a painfully bloody and violent taco eating show.
(1)Lu'isa T.
Just moved to the area and miss good mexican food this place is a good substitute but more of an American version.
(3)Israel F.
I came here on my 1st visit to North shore and the food was cooked great the fish tacos had awesome toppings and the house made Hawaiian pepper hot sauce is the best I wish they manufactured and sole in the mainland.
(5)Yessen A.
The most delicious steak quessadilas i've ever tried! Restroom was very clean but there were too many mosquitoes to sit outside. Very convenient place to pick a bite before heading to the Polynesian cultural evening show nearby.
(5)B. W.
First time here, love fish tacos and have had some of the best in San Diego and a few other areas of country. The fish tacos were very good, I would order them again as I would the pork tacos. On par with with others I've had, I wouldn't say they are the best however, they are very good, and I will return here to dine when I'm on the North Shore. Had a steak burrito to go, the flavor was good, and I liked the fact there wasn't much cheese at all on it so the flavor was good however, again I have tasted better, but they do a pretty good job. The chips and pineapple salsa were very good as well. Customer service was OK however, had to ask one of the servers there at least 3 times for covers for the salsa containers for takeout, almost as though she was totally disengaged. For first time customers, not impressive.
(3)Victor M.
Since I live on Oahu I have driven past this place on the weekends many times. I was skeptical to think that the tacos could be any good or the food in general. So this past Saturday a group of us decided to stop and try the food. It was the BEST decision because the food was GREAT!!! I tried the sweet pork tacos with a side of pinto beans and rice. I used the special house sauce they had and the flavors were amazing. The other two in my group ordered a sweet pork burrito and steak nachos. Both were very pleased and happy with the food they received. The staff at this place were extremely friendly and offered me free samples of the desserts they offered and of their horchata. If I weren't so full from lunch I definitely would have ordered dessert. The horchata was probably some of the best I have tasted in a long time. The touch of cinnamon really made it that much more enjoyable. I am kicking myself now for not getting some to go!!! I would encourage anyone to try this place and to try the sweet pork tacos (even though they are known for their fish tacos). I will definitely be stopping by this place again!
(5)Harrison S.
My wife and me make it a point to enjoy a fabulous fish taco everyone we hit the waves of the north shore. Wonderful family setting, nice people, and beautifully prepared and delivered fish tacos!!
(5)Jane F.
Fun atmosphere. Positive energy. Packed with people. Delicious food! I ordered the 2 fish tacos and a Mexican, real sugar coca-cola. I ordered it to go. The wait was kind of long, the girl at the counter told me it would be better to call my order in, in the future, which I will for sure do. Overall, Id def recommend and come back.
(4)Keshia M.
BEST FISH TACOS I'VE EVER HAD!! My friend and I stumbled upon this place while driving around North Shore earlier this year. These tacos have been on my mind ever since. We're back in Hawaii for my moms birthday and I made sure to visit again. I can't even eat fish tacos at other restaurants because nothing compares to theirs. Amazing!!
(5)Margs K.
Ok, I mostly stopped here on my way to Haleiwa because my phone was dying, and I needed a place to charge it. But I was actually surprised how good their ahi tacos and horchata were, and I loved the indoor/outdoor space! The '#1 fish tacos' sign they have hanging outside isn't just hyperbole.
(4)Joel W.
The food was just ok. We each had a fish taco and pork taco combo. Nothing special but the pork one was better. Friendly and fast service.
(3)Jessica M.
Love this place!!! Services is great food is amazing a little expensive but o well is Hawaii ... !!
(5)Craig P.
Almost a 5 star. Horchata was good. Ahi tacos with beans and side salad. good price for the amount.
(4)Becky S.
Deliciously good! Pork burrito was tasty as were the shrimp tacos. The green sauce was perfect to compliment anything on the menu. Definitely order the ginger lemonade. It is a little pricy for what you get but great food.
(4)Francisco A.
I went here the other day and this place is WAY over priced. 45 dollars for two mediocre meals. The Menu on their facebook page said 11.45 for two fish tacos. Thats a lie, we paid almost 20 dollars a plate on small toco meals. They were not bad, they were just OK. And the fish they use is ahi, so I don't understand their pricing. Pretty ridicules for a food truck. Anyways, on top of their ridicules prices, it took about an hour to get our food from the time we stood in line to the time we actually took our first bite. The funny thing is they actually ask for a tip? We are not being waited on.... We walked away feeling like we got ripped off...very disappointed.
(1)Kaitlin B.
My initial review was 4stars but I now changed it to 2 Coming back I didn't realize how SLOW they are- and not at just making your food, but at taking your order! They are too busy up selling their desserts (which, if you didn't know is where they make their money- highest price margin is on drinks and desserts). Which i wouldn't mind if they had two people working, one giving samples and one taking orders. It's like they know they are one of the few places to eat on the windward side and so they don't have to worry about customer service. Waited 20min to order (only 2people ahead of me and no one in their drive thru) and 20 min for our food. Their tacos are NOT THAT good. This is the LAST time I come here!
(1)Kali D.
My boyfriend and I were looking for a new place to eat lunch in haleiwa and came across this taco truck in Haleiwa. It seems from reading the other comments and looking at pictures they either moved or expanded because there is now a truck right in the middle of Haleiwa. I ordered 2 tacos one with shredded beef then the lady at the window recommended sweet pork (she was a little pushy) but I thought I'd give it a try. My boyfriend ordered the their special shrimp burrito. I was pleasantly surprised, the shredded beef taco was delicious and fresh tasting, I should have stuck with my gut though and got both tacos with shredded beef. The sweet pork was ok, a little to sweet for me though. The rice and beans that came with my tacos were bland, If I go back I'll try the chips and salsa as a side instead. I tried my boyfriends burrito, it was ok, the filling was mostly rice and it was a little dry.
(3)LJ S.
First of all give it up al the employees working the Jazz and Blues festival at Turtle bay! They worked so hard making our dinner perfect and very delicious! As I stood waiting for my fish tacos and chips with salsa and guacamole i witnessed not only the people coming together as we waiting having good laughs but the employees working together and helping each other to get through a very VERY busy night. Many smiles and a big Mahalo! See you soon.
(5)Eddy S.
I love the Stake quessadila plate. Love the black beans. The people are very friendly and there's not too much waiting for the food. The food taste delicious and fresh. Costumer service could be a little better but like I said people are nice so you over look at the service.
(5)Sam R.
Pricier than regular tacos. And they recommend to you what to order. Their lemonades are expensive $5 for a large and $4.50 for medium. Not the cleanest place but it's along the main road. Cost for two lunches and drinks $39.00
(2)Zero R.
Prices are OP. I felt like I got raped. The food wasn't even good it felt like something was moving in my mouth.
(2)Anthony S.
Long drive from Honolulu but the food was excellent. A little pricey. Fish tacos and burritos were top notch.
(4)Jerramy H.
Ok just get the fact that is $32 for 4 tacos with guac, chips, and a diet coke! It's worth it! Great fish tacos, I had both fish and shrimp and the shrimp tacos were the best for sure! Look for the big red truck it's a great choice to hang out for lunch. You can also grab fresh coconut water next door!
(5)Jenne E.
The best fish taco I've had! A bit messy (juices) but amazing and worth spilling on myself. If your driving the coast stop by north shore tacos, you won't be disappointed.
(5)Joe L.
The North Shore lacks a variety of food types so we were happy to try tacos after many days of the typical area's offerings. The staff was very friendly and gave us samples of the deserts and lemonades. The tres leches and mouse are very good. They had a couple of flavors with the mouse (I tried the passion fruit and chocolate). They had flan as well, but I didn't try that. The sweet pork burrito with the red sauce was big and very good. My wife enjoyed her tacos and we all left full. In Hawaii the restaurants aren't required to have bathrooms unlike my home state. So, it was convenient that this one does have a bathroom. Bonus points for that.
(5)Mark C.
I was a first time customer and told the cashier that. I had already checked the menu on the wall and decided to get just a steak taco. She kept asking me what type of beans I wanted and I said whatever normally comes on the taco. She said they don't come on the taco, what type of beans do I want. She was trying to bully me into admitting I wanted some beans so she could charge for a basket meal and not just a taco. Then, when I picked up the order, I asked for a cup of ice water. She told me it would cost 25 cents. I told her I had no cash and she would not let me have it. A lady behind me in line was kind enough to pay for it. On top if it all, the taco was very bland. I will not eat here again.
(2)Brittany G.
This place was amazing! We pulled in on a whim and were impressed by the awesome food and great hospitality. I recommend this gem to everyone in the area! Ps- the Hot Sauce is BOMB! :)
(5)Eugene N.
Not the best Mexican restaurant on the island, we love the nacho. It's a bit pricey for the quality of the food. The place is relaxing and I love they surfing video that is always on.
(3)Sarah R.
When you read a sign that says "hawaiis best fish tacos" you usually glance over it wothout a second thought. This sign at this food truck is the absolute truth. I had the two taco meal, twice in 3 days for lunch. The fish is caught fresh daily, the pico is fresh and tasty, but the thing that really sets this apart from other fish tacos is the "surf sauce" 2 tacos are very filling and come with either a side of chips and salsa or rice and beans. Great value compared to some of the other trucks in the area where you can easily pay $15 for a single mahi mahi sandwich without any sides. My wife and I love good, local food and couldnt contain our excitement. I wanted to try other trucks on the north shore, but on our last afternoon just had to go back for one more! When the chef came to deliver spoons for our flan, he was surprised to get a hug. While waiting for our food, we tried to persuede others to make the right choice and go for mahi tacos. Mmmmmm....until next time north shore tacos!
(5)Wardog M.
Great service but bad fish tacos. Gave them a 2 star only because I haven't tried anything else
(2)Brandon H.
I read dozens of reviews saying their fish tacos were so good they could cure cancer. They were pretty tasty but I wouldn't say my life will never be the same having tried them. It was worth trying once. If I lived here I'd probably eat here again but as a tourist I think I'll keep trying other restaurants while I'm here. I paid about $12 for two fish tacos and some beans and rice. Not too bad, but the award for "Best Fish Tacos" goes to a seedy back-alley cart I ate at in Tijuana Mexico several years ago. I still have dirty dreams about THOSE fish tacos.
(3)Mason R.
Amazing food! Been here about 5 times and loved it every time! My favorite is the fresh shrimp beach burrito! A little pricey, but bomb food!
(5)Sarah K.
Excellent tacos!! We had the fish tacos and chicken quesadillas. They were both great but I think the fish taco was the best!!! The food was fresh and a ton of flavors packed in one taco! Pair the quesadilla with the sauce and YUM is all you'll be able to say. The lady at the front was very helpful and gave you a sample of everything. Go to North Shore Tacos for a great, quick meal!!
(4)DeAnna R.
They give you two choices of meat. So I tried pork and shrimp. I'm not sure their was even any pork on my pork taco... The shrimp taco was ok. Got a side of guacamole and salsa. I like chunky guacamole as much as the next person but this was like whole slices not even attempted to be broken down. Then the guacamole had a very tangy taste to it. We describe it as being very salty with lots of citrus. The chips were also very stale. I would have to say this place being number 1 is self proclaimed. Let down...
(2)Local B.
It's not good. I've tried it over 3 times but every time is the same. Blan blan blan. Way to much rice in everything you order. They need to remove the sign and put a new one "tacos are ok if your super hungry" C- at best. Sorry guys...
(1)Eric S.
Best fish tacos on windward/north Shore. Awesome deserts. Staff is super friendly great place I go here quite often. Only 4 stars because of price. It's a bit expensive. Otherwise I love it.
(4)jonathan s.
Attention Moron's from California, Don't expect a baja style fish taco in Hawaii. I'm from SO Cal too, so I know a good fish taco when I eat one. I saw the sign #1 Fish Taco, so I thought.... OH YEAH? WE'LL SEE ABOUT THAT. I will say that a fish taco on flour tortilla is appalling. However, if I just rate the food item on it's own merit, I will tell you that the fish was delicious, their salsa was really good and the flavor was great. I would stop here again after a north shore visit. On the downside, $4.00 for a small little taco is absurd. The fish is local, so why so much? All in all, the place was busy, customers were enjoying their food, and the vibe was typical taco shop. I would go back
(4)Milton L.
Great place to stop for lunch on your loop up to the Haliewa and back. No real ambience or anything. I would suggest grabbing tacos to go and stopping at the next beach park and enjoy the scenery and the tacos. Tacos are really good and the sauce is great and the hot sauce is really good too. Had fish tacos and shrimp tacos, liked both equally well.
(4)Christie M.
I live right down the street from this restaurant and am originally from California, so it is not easy to please me when it comes to Mexican food. This is not like any Mexican food you are used to. It's "Hawaiian Style kin". I usually get the two pork taco combo ( it's a sweet pork, but really good with the cilantro lime cream sauce/ salsa they serve with it) and pinto beans and rice. DEFINATELY get the flour tortilla as the corn are not that good and although I like black beans a lot, here I prefer the pinto. Hope this helps
(2)Paige S.
This review is just for their fresh raspberry lemonade and their strawberry tres leches cake. Okay, I read the reviews while we were waiting on our dinner at papa ole's...I got the feeling that nothing we got was going to be fabulous but my girlfriend who lives in Laie said that the flan at North Shore Tacos was fabulous and that we should get some for dessert. So we headed over. It was 930 at night, the place looked super shady..like some place you would go to make a shady transaction. But we were greeted as soon as we walked in by a friendly lady behind the counter. We were told that there is no more flan, I guess since changing owners they also took this off their menu so we ordered tres leches and some drinks. The tres leches cake was horrible. I'm not sure if they just poured milk over it and called it a day but it was a dry cake, that was overly sweetened that had a weird fake sweet flavor. The fact that they added what looked like melted frozen strawberries on top made it that much worse. Belch, never again. The raspberry lemonade was fresh but it was not that tart or flavorful, much like a brisk iced tea. Does brisk still exist? If so, it would be better than this place. I would give this place a one star but the customer service made me boost it up to 2 stars. Overall, we will not be heading back. Nice employees but Not authentic at all.
(2)Mark S.
The sign said "Best Fish Tacos". Overstated to say the least. I was driving by so I decided to try one. It was ok. Here's the best way to describe it. 5 dollars for one taco 4 bites 3 very small pieces of fish 2 kinds of shells. Soft flour and hard corn. Really? Hard corn shells? 1 disappointed customer Pass by next time.
(2)Abby S.
Food is okay. Was surprised to like the ginger lemonade. It was cool that they let you try their specialty drinks and deserts. Service was good. I don't know about having great fish tacos though. It was pretty bland. We had the chicken burrito too and that wasn't bad. But I won't be going back.
(3)Brittany K.
Samples of homemade desserts and drinks upon arrival. The coconut flan is amazing. The shrimp is probably some of the best I've had in a long time. It's super easy to order here with a food allergy because, believe it or not, they actually know everything that they put in their food. The staff is so friendly. It's definitely worth a visit!
(5)Rafael R.
Stopped by the drive through after a spartan race. Choke food and super ono. Thanks for some great grindz.
(5)EL C.
Brought a friend visiting from the mainland here. I'm local, and always hear good things about this place on yelp, but today was NOT A GOOD EXPERIENCE. My friend & I ordered the fish tacos. When he bit into his tacos he realized there was only a small chunk of fish in it. So that one small bite was the only part that had fish. He checked his other taco before eating, and noticed the same thing. I checked mine, and AGAIN barely any fish in our fish tacos. What's up with that? I hope the next time I come here, it'll be better. One more chance.
(1)Marie C.
I was driving around the island to check out different beaches and although it was only 10:30 am, fish tacos for breakfast sounded great. I'd heard about North Shore Tacos and definitely would continue to pass along it's praises! The ahi tacos were delicious! The manager was also really helpful about the dessert options, which include coconut flan, lilikoi mouse, and several others. Ana, thanks for making my day! I enjoyed talking with you. Hope to see you again soon.
(5)Michael B.
What a great find after visiting the Polynesian cultural center. Fresh fish tacos were wonderful and the portions were generous. Fresh fruit juices were a great complement to the outstanding food. Service was great and the atmosphere makes you feel like a local.
(4)Justin M.
This place is out of the way, way out of the way. The food was much better than I would have ever guessed. Not just because my stomach was empty, this food was very appetizing. I highly recommend the fish tacos, nachos with steak and one of the lemonade varieties they make fresh!
(4)Vance F.
Despite being expensive, overall it's pretty good. Friendly service, open and spacious, nice breeze. I been here a while back and food was expensive, not that great and with small portions... I've heard it's gotten better so I decided come and bring my kids. The fish tacos was good and the nachos with shredded beef as well. Ginger lemonade and horchata drinks were pretty good too. I really liked the tres leches cake for dessert.
(3)Sam F.
Awesome dinning experience, friendly staff, excellent food. The beef is great, the fish is really fresh. Locally owned and operated. It is a great joint!
(5)Tim L.
North Shore Tacos rocks. We came here four years ago with our family on vacation and I have been counting the days to come back. Mahi-Mahi tacos and sweet pork with their sauce. Two thumbs up for sure!
(5)Jen H.
Best sweet pork tacos and nachos...I drive a half an hour sometimes just for these! Really good house made hot sauce too - they bottle and sell it, just remember to ask!
(5)Karen L.
I would give them 2.5 stars. We were driving down the coast and got a bit hungry so stopped by Northshore tacos since it had a sign saying best fish tacos. We ordered 2 fish tacos and the sweet pork nachos. They gave us the wrong order and had to repeat it to another employee three 3 times before she understood what happened. The nachos were decent, I would give that 3.5 stars. The pork had good flavor but wish the cheese was a bit hotter and melted. The fish tacos were overpriced and very plain. It lacked seasoning and flavor. It cost $6 for each taco and nachos were $10.
(2)Sean C.
The Best Fish Tacos Go for two tacos they are not that large I went for one and was ordering another a few mins later. It's a great spot close to the beach.
(4)Chris W.
Excellent food and friendly service. A little pricey for tacos but what do you expect on Hawaii. Recommended.
(5)Shauna M.
Everything was tasty and freshly made from the strawberry lemonade to dessert. Highly recommend. My only complaint is the prices are high for small portion. But what you get is very good, so we would go back again.
(5)Brittney B.
Great fish tacos! Cool, casual atmosphere. Not so "touristy"! The gals working the counter were super sweet, and offered me samples of different drinks and desserts before I chose what I wanted! Yes, it's kind of out of the way, but well worth the drive if you want a more "local" experience!
(5)Danna A.
The family spent Christmas and New Year's on the North Shore. We were there 14 days and I think we spent at least six meals here. I tried ALL of the different tacos and ALL of them were amazing!!! However, the fish tacos were by far my favorites, with the shredded beef a close second. Always ask for the surf sauce....you won't regret it. The salsa has a lot of flavor and the chips are fresh. I don't know what the sauce is in the cola bottles, but is it tangy and spicy. It went really good with the pork and chicken tacos. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this place and it will be one of my stops EVERY time I visit the island.
(5)Rebecca S.
Stopped here last night after going to the haunted lagoon at PCC, since we didn't want to go to McD's. I went for their chicken taco plate ($8-ish) and my guy had the beef burrito (also around $8). Their tacos are normally served with a flour tortilla, but I like corn, so that's what I ordered. I liked the fact that they served two corn tortillas with their tacos, since the corn ones tend to fall apart. The counter service was also very friendly and she seemed to be working her butt off. They've also done a good job revamping this place to feel open, airy and North Shore-ish. The food itself, though, was "meh," or even worse. The taco was pretty bland, the pinto beans were hard and the rice tasted like it had been sitting in a pan all day, which I'm fairly confident it had. I had to use a loooot of hot sauce. My guy liked his burrito okay, particularly the fact that they smother it in red or green sauce. However, he was starving and likely would have said the same about a smothered cardboard box. I'll likely keep driving the next time I pass here and grab tacos at Luibuenos or Cholos in Haleiwa instead.
(2)Angela S.
The signs say #1 tacos in North shore....I haven't tried anywhere else up here....but.....clean establishment....friendly service....and fresh tasting.....had two ahi tacos......expensive for what I am used to...but seems to be the going rate up here....definitely will return.
(4)Timothy C.
Oh man! I don't know WHAT they put on those tacos (it's literally a green sauce that goes on them), but wow. Two tacos served with cilantro-limey type rice and either pinto or black beans. Perfect little dinner, so tasty. And to top it off, NACHOS! served with pork and that splendid little sauce that seems to take normal things (chips, cheese, pork, sour cream) and KICK IT UP A NOTCH! Scrumptious! And they have a drive through, probably the only drive through on that quarter of the island. Open dining area, clean, surfy vibe, a couple TVs, and the sign outside that says #1 fish tacos, well, it's not that much of a stretch to get there. I don't have a ton of fish taco experience, so, take it with a grain of salt.
(4)Jim R.
OK. Would not return. Over priced.
(2)Ashley L.
All the food was delicious!! Loved that they gave samples and recommended their most popular dishes. The boys that helped us were very informative and had great customer service! Will definitely be back ;)
(5)Arman B.
Great tacos with a lot of variety, chicken, pork, fish, and steak. They had samples at the front which was nice. Although I opted for just water. If you are at the north shore there's not really many restaurants so I would definitely recommend it also because it's clean. Note. I have celiac disease and after eating the steak tacos with rice and black beans I had no issues so that was a plus
(5)Scott C.
Wow, great food, we all LOVED what we got. You can tell everything is very fresh. Staff is very friendly and helpful. A+ Prices are a little high but that might be normal considering the location. Don't stop if your in a big hurry though. Definitely worth checking out.
(5)Pualena P.
Surfin' Tacos is one of those restaurants that I have driven past hundreds of times and never thought to try. To be honest, I'm not sure I even really noticed it at all...and then one day...my whole world was turned upside down and I found some of the tastiest tacos on the North Shore! I've had their fish tacos, which seem small but will fill you up! Their burritos are simple, yet satisfying. I got the shrimp burrito last time and the pieces of shrimp were HUGE! Not those little shrimp babies that many restaurants pass off as "shrimp"...these were legit! It wasn't a super full burrito, so if that's your thing, I'd skip this and go straight to the nachos or the fajitas. But it filled me up to the top! Actually, I was stuffed and I couldn't even finish it. Whatever you get, make sure you don't pass up their secret surf sauce! I might dare to say that this is another one of those sauces that has a little bit of magic cooked in. I can't really put my finger on the taste, but without it, there would be a void in my Surfin' Tacos meals. Did I mention this is a DRIVE-THRU!?!?! Step aside, Taco Bell, you've got some serious competition! What a great option for grub on the go when you're in a rush to get back into town or if you can't wait any longer to get in that refreshing Hauula ocean!
(4)Adam R.
this was my favorite place we ate in the area. We live in SoCal and love Mexican food and we enjoyed the shrimp tacos and the fish tacos. Compared to other places in the area, this has a much cleaner look and ample indoor seating.
(4)Trevor W.
Best tacos I've had in Hawaii. This blows away all the taco shops near Honolulu. It's totally worth the trip to come up to North Shore and enjoy the beaches, and grab a delicious pork and fish taco from this place. Customer service was also on point. Very friendly. Gave me free samples of the desert. Loved it. If you're in this part of the island, you have to stop by.
(5)Stan S.
As others have stated the food here is indeed tasty and the green sauce very delicious. I give it 3 stars for the value (a little pricey but they are large portions) and for the exceptionally long wait time to prepare the food. I am not sure if this is the standard wait time there. I think we waited 30 minutes to receive our food.
(3)Julian B.
I think some of the other reviewers must be eating in a different place. The pork quesadilla is excellent, and the interesting green sauce is a great accompaniment. Black beans, guacamole, rice and sour cream are included. We've also tried the nachos and burritos - all good. Whoever is looking for authentic Mexican food in Hawaii is on a misguided wild goose chase - and so this food isn't, but it sure is tasty!
(5)Erica W.
Visiting the North Shore from SoCal, we weren't expecting fish tacos better than we are used to at home, but these weren't bad at all. Fresh, local fish and tasty green sauce. Rice and beans were meh. Horchata was good. Desserts looked good, but we didn't try them. Service was fine. We went twice, but just ordered to go as we were staying just a few miles down the street. This place is a decent option when you're in the area and want something besides shrimp trucks or plate lunch.
(4)renee l.
I would have given a higher rating except for the price, $13 for a two-taco plate and $13 for a salad? I expect that at a restaurant in town, but not a small little road-side place. However, I guess it's the going rate to nab the tourists, as even the little food trucks up the road charge $13-15 for a plate. The tacos were good, although I felt the sauce was a bit salty and overpowered the fresh fish. Didn't end up going with any of the speciality drinks or desserts, but what a great idea to offer samples to new customers! Overall customer service was exceptional though, from explaining the menu and the popular/recommended dishes to the incredibly short wait time for the food! Would definitely try again if we found ourselves hungry on that stretch of road, but wouldn't consider it necessarily a "destination" spot for a meal.
(3)Murphy D.
Great quesadillas and lemonade! Also has nice, clean bathrooms which seem to be few and far between on the North Shore :) The staff was very friendly and gave some free samples while we were deciding what to order. My reason for the minus one star is that I wasn't too impressed with the rice and beans that came with my meal. Overall, great place to stop and eat!
(4)Brian H.
Visited North Shore Tacos while on a drive around the eastern side of Oahu. They claim to have the "#1 fish tacos." Well, they were good...but #1? Not so fast... The place itself is quite a dive. Open-air seating, which was nice. Closer inspection, however, found the place rather dirty: hot sauce spilled in the container reserved for knives (looked like it had been there a while, too), dirty floors and chairs. It was around 4 in the afternoon so there were not a lot of people there. I would hope that would give them time to clean the place up a bit. As for the food itself, it was decent. We ordered a two-taco plate. They let us split between fish and shrimp. There was a good amount of shrimp on my taco, and it was cooked perfectly. But I can get the same thing at Baja Fresh and pay half as much.
(3)Courtney B.
The sweet pork taco was amazing and the ginger lemonade was the best I've ever had. If you enjoy horchata North Shore tacos has the best on the island. Worth the trek.
(5)Amber W.
Holy salt! I went here a few years ago (under new management now) and it was fantastic! The fish tacos WERE the best on the island. Now it's sad to say, they do not taste the same (as I remember) not even close. This time the fish tacos weren't horrible, but very salty as others say, and I don't mind salt. The sauce is different now too. It's not bad, but expensive and not that great, just kind of sad.
(3)Meghan J.
We had their shrimp quesadilla and sweet pork burrito with double meat! The burrito was enormous! Could be a meal for two. The sweet pork was amazing and went well with their spicy hot sauce and their cilantro crema. Their shrimp quesadilla was my favorite. All of their desserts are homemade. I recommend taking out and eating your food overlooking a beach somewhere...the ambiance isn't the best.
(4)Joe L.
You know Southern Cali. Mexican Food you will love this Baja mex spot! I am a connoisseur of Mexican food and I have tried every restaurant on island. This is TOPS for Baja Mexican! Thank you Joey! Joe
(5)Steronimo G.
Talk about effective advertisement - No. 1 fish taco sign drew us in. Unfortunately, the sign also drew an entire tour bus of college kids. But I was in the mood for a good fish taco - and it did not disappoint. Ahi was the fish of the day for the taco. It was nicely complemented with sort of a cilantro sour cream dressing for the taco. Tasted better than it sounds. Although not cheap, good for a North Shore lunch.
(4)Kerry n Tony L.
Good tacos and food seems fresh, I keep coming back ^_^
(5)Evan F.
If you're looking for authentic Mexican food then you're out of luck. If you're looking for something along the lines of Chipotle, Baja Fresh, or Cafe Rio, then North Shore Tacos (formerly Surfin' Tacos) will be your closest bet on Oahu. Let me start off with the positives. North Shore Tacos has a really nice vibe. It's clean, open, and spacious. Plus, it has a cool mural of Laie Beach Park on the wall. In addition, the portions are larger. They offer Mexican Coca Cola as well as horchata, jamaica, and other hispanic drinks. On the negative side of things, North Shore Tacos is expensive. In their defense, though, everything is expensive in Hawaii. But then I'd have to say the food is inconsistent and just lacks a few food prep details that would really push it over the top ... namely the quality of their tortillas and chips. With all this said, I feel two stars is a fair assessment because it is Hawaii and it is a nice option to have along the north east side of Oahu. If it were the mainland, though, my assessment would be a lot more harsh. So if you're keen for something American-Mexican-ish, and aren't interested in nasty ole Taco Bell, then give North Shore Tacos a go.
(2)Lisa S.
Go to the one in HALEIWA! Food truck, the most amazing delicious fish tacos and burritos. We went twice! Sweet pork is divine. Fish tacos are better at the haleiwa locaion than in hauulu. then go to the lemonade truck in the same spot--best lemonade ever!
(5)Ron C.
Stopped by with my wife. We shared Steak Beach Burrito and Fish Tacos. The burrito was quite good but the tacos were fabulous. Will most likely visit again before we leave town in a week. Very friendly staff. They offered free samples of different homemade lemonades which my wife ended up ordering and desserts which we declined for now. Good place for lunch when on windward shore of Oahu.
(4)Jamie W.
My husband and I ordered from the taco truck in Haleiwa this evening and I think I could eat this food for every meal for the rest of my life. The truck is located right next to the Sea Shell Shop and the Hula Dog truck. They have a few picnic tables with umbrellas outside. I had Ono tacos and they were the best fish tacos ever. The fish was cooked perfectly. Spicy and flavorful and the surf sauce is amazing. My husband ordered an Ono quesadilla. He said it was the best quesadilla he's ever had. Hawaii is expensive, but I'd pay $10 for 2 fish tacos from this place before is spend it anywhere else. I think I'm going to have dreams about those tacos. It's great food to end a day at the beach. We'll be back often.
(5)Jim G.
This is for the food truck- Flour tortilla and lettuce instead of corn tortilla and cabbage. I thought this was messed up but took a bite and holy cow. The homemade pico de gallo and tomatillo sauce were outrageous. The fish was fresh and 'chared' well. Everyone was ordering one to try and would finish it and go back for another. Awesome place.
(5)Michael M.
I agree with the reviews and word of mouth praise. This place is good. The fish tacos were great. The nachos were enough for two of my kids. And I want the recipe for their sauce. Great food. Update: got a recipe for the sauce that may not be theirs, but it comes pretty close.
(5)Jamie W.
I'm not sure what to say here. This place came highly rated. The exterior is a little sketchy. The interior seating area is dirty and has lots of flies. Then, there's the long wait, and I mean long, after ordering while you wait with the flies for your food. But, the fish tacos and quesadillas were pretty exceptional. I could have gone for a little more fish and a little less lettuce, though.
(3)Sergio M.
Staying right up the street from this place we hit up twice and both times it was amazing! The homemade red sauce goes great with all the plates. The chicken quesadilla plate was good with their green creamy sauce the shrimp tacos were delicious. They have a catch of the day plate and we got the sword fish tacos and they were amazing. Skip the fountain drinks and try their ginger lemonade it pairs great with any of their dishes, loved this place and you will too! Plus it's right next to the local grocery store, longs drugs store and another local favorite Papa Oles!
(5)Marc M.
Amazingly good quality, variety and flavor! Best food on the North Shore!
(5)Geoff K.
Surfin' Tacos keeps it simple. The tacos here are what tacos would like like if I made them my self. No flash, pizazz, just plain tacos. I can make good tacos and so can Surfin' Tacos. The employees are super friendly here. Surfin' Tacos does customer service right. MEXICAN COKE!!!! - They have it. This is the only Mexican restaurant I've encountered that sells it.
(4)Andrew C.
Was good huge prawns just a little too garlicky for me and also plan on a wait but overall not bad.
(3)Rodrigo D.
This place has great food at a great location! Nothing like a tasty healthy meal after an afternoon surfing session.The staff is friendly, and the desserts are delicious.
(5)Terry F.
Dinner tonight. Fish taco's. The taco's were good, the fish meat solid and tasty. Plenty of lettuce and pico. They tasted really good, but I'm not doing cartwheels out the door exclaiming their wonderfulness. I'm glad we ate there, but I can't say they were the best fish tacos I have ever had. If you feel like fish tacos and your in the neighborhood, stop by.
(4)Dennis B.
All I wanted was a good fish taco. Great fish tacos in the San Francisco Bay area where I live but being on vacation in Hawaii you would think that you would be able to get a fresh fish great taco! Let me describe the fish taco. No cabbage just lettuce, I had to hunt for the actual fish which was small tiny pieces at the bottom and was definitely not fresh actually had a very tasty smelly scent! It had pieces of cheddar cheese also in it. That night for dinner I went with a friend to a an Italian seafood restaurant and had fresh blacken ahi tuna fish tacos with cabbage. They were absolutely amazing! The fish tacos North Shore tacos were also very expensive. I will not be returning to eat at this establishment again.
(1)Heidi K.
I've been here twice and loved it both times! The first time I got pork nachos. They serve a green sauce with it, and I have NO IDEA what it is but oh my god it is like Jesus in a cup. It's SO DELICIOUS AND GOOD. The second time I split steak nachos and a beef taco with my husband. Mmmmm both were so awesome! I would definitely stop here if I were you :)
(5)Michelle M.
Wow! This place has DELICIOUS FOOD! The pork and fresh fish tacos were surprising. Homemade lemonade and deserts also top off the experience. Will be back.
(4)Russel M.
4 1/2 Stars. The best Fresh Fish Taco's we've had on the Island! Two Fish Taco's , Beans & Rice for $10- isn't cheap but was well worth it. We are going back soon. We were just at Tiki's in Waikiki and their fishy Taco's weren't even close.
(4)Amy H.
Great mahi mahi fish taco. Other ppl in our group had non-fish like burritos which they also really liked. Great service and fun open air atmosphere.
(4)melanie j.
This place was delicious! I had the shredded beef tacos and it was perfect. A regular size taco, full of (juicy!) meat and it was just perfect. Really hit the spot! Thank you North Shore Tacos!
(4)Will L.
Sweet pork is so good when touches your lips.... for real I Have had the sweet pork Nachos and the shrimp burrito.... Both very good.. Great atmosphere for the college scene....
(5)Stephanie B.
We came across this place when we were out riding around around one day & have gone back. The food is good. The portion sizes are average. They don't overstuff the items with meat but atleast what they do use is very tasty and real meat which is questionable is some places. The beans and rice are good but do not have a lot of taste (slight limetaste on the rice). Their guac and pico de gaio are very tasty. We have tried numerous items here (cheese quesadilla, pork quesadilla, pork tacos, pork burrito, and fish tacos) and we have had no complaints. If you have a big appetite and are really hungary, one serving might not fill you up. The food is a little pricey but let face it, it cost more to eat out in hawaii period.
(4)Sean K.
You're in Hawaii, where can you find a good taco? Look no further! Have eaten here 4 times, consistently good.
(4)Courtney T.
Mexican is by far my favorite food! My parents are in town for my graduation and we were driving along Kam hwy looking for a place to eat and stopped at Surfin' Tacos! It was really good! I got the veggie burrito with the green sauce and each dish comes with there special sauce on the side which was really good! My dad got the fresh fish burrito which he said was awesome but would have liked a little more fish. They have killer fresh lemonade. The food takes a little while but the people who work there are super friendly and it is worth the wait! I would definitely go back!
(4)Tiffany H.
Had one shrimp taco and one Ahi taco with black beans, rice and a cold Sangria flavored Jarritos Mexican soda. Was pretty good :)
(3)Farrah F.
After a long day of scuba diving and soaking up the sun on the North Shore, I was starving! There are a lot of places to stop on the way back to town and undecided to give North Shore Tacos a chance. They had a nice sign and I'm a sucker for advertising. Anyhow, parking was easy and there weren't 1000 tourists like at the shrimp trucks. The building is open air an totally appropriate for wet and sandy patrons. The service was polite and friendly and the food came out quick. Well, here's where it goes to pot! I could do a better job in my dorm room (not that I'm still in college and live in the dorm but you get the drift.). The black beans were plain...like not even salted. The rice had some flavor, but was dry. The tortillas were of the packaged variety. And my god! Did they forget the shrimp and fish? What a rip off! Basically, it was a lettuce and sauce taco with a few slivers of fish or shrimp. Next time, I'll try another place.
(2)Mark P.
Place looks like an old, run-down converted Wendy's or something with the front windows knocked out. But the service was friendly and the fish tacos fantastic! Thank goodness that Romy's Kukuku Shrimp had an hour plus wait (!) or we'd never have tried this place. We'll definitely be going back next time in town.
(4)Corey C.
Great salads and tacos! Got there too late for the fish tacos but the shrimp ones were great! Nothing else like it on the island!
(5)Lynne C.
I saw mixed reviews but my friends wanted to eat here. Food was very inconsistent. Everyone got sweet pork enchiladas. One came with red sauce instead of green. My friends' enchiladas had tons of meat and mine was almost all rice. The meat was pretty sweet for my taste but again, there wasn't much. Everyone's enchiladas were extremely light on the sauce. I would never go back.
(1)Maria D.
Ok. So we got lured in by the #1 fish tacos sign. I don't know why we stopped exactly, since we saw at least 5 other places that claimed the same. But boy were we glad we did. We literally just came from Giovannis shrimp truck so all we could eat was 1 fish taco....and it was delicious! The fish was perfect, lots of flavor and they put some green sauce on it that's amazing. I'd eat more if I had room. Will be back!
(5)Tina D.
I live in Kailua and have driven 40 minutes, one way, just to eat at North Shore Tacos. I tell all of my friends to stop there, too; everyone's glad they did and rave about their meals from North Shore Tacos, as well!
(5)Rob L.
The wife and I were driving around the windward side, looking for somewhere to eat that wasn't a truck. Not a lot of choices in the area, luckily we found this spot. We both had burritos, she had the chicken I had the shredded beef. I prefer a little more meat, a little less rice and beans, but I really liked my burrito and so did my wife. Glad we found this place. Chatted with one of the family who own the place, nice guy.
(4)L M.
Could be a good place. Problem is how little meat or fish they put in their servings. I had a friend who worked there. Very much wanting restaurants to succeed out here, I asked him to share this with the owners: That the meat/fish portions were so small. Owner response: "tell him to kiss my a**" It's such a small community. They should be careful with this type of thing. I hope they succeed. And grow up a bit.
(3)Deb L.
Only place we chose to eat at twice while on the island.
(4)Natalie W.
Very good. I had the steak salad. Steak was tender and delicious and whatever that dressing was, it was great!
(4)Tessa t.
so i had the single soft taco with grilled chicken... the bf had the two soft tacos (shredded pork) with beans and rice... their "special sauce" was very yummy! however, everything else was just....o-kay. the beans tasted like they were straight outta the can and the rice had no flavor. :( as for service, you just order at the counter and pick up your food when it's ready...so i can't really comment on how i felt about the service. the girl was friendly enough though. i do like how the place is open air...kinda like you're sitting out on the patio...just chilling.
(2)Jackson G.
The guys at Surfin Tacos do a pretty damn good job with their mexican food. The tacos are solid and the steak quesadilla is great. However, they are stingy with their salsa and need a real salsa bar to make it. My only complaint would be the logo. I think it's just a little bit racialist to assume that all tacos have mustaches.
(4)Brenda W.
Ordered the sweet pork burrito with a side of surf sauce and my husband ordered two shrimp tacos with rice and beans. We also added one drink and chips and salsa. Total was 25 bucks. Not cheap but not out of the ordinary for Hawaii. The burrito was good but was about 80 precent rice which doesn't bother me. Husband said the tacos were good. The surf sauce is really good. We'll eat there again mostly because we live close by.
(3)Olaf T.
I got the sweet pork burrito which had about a tablespoon of meat at best. They asked if I wanted their special surf sauce so I said yes thinking it was included. Turns out it was an extra 50 cents for about a tablespoon of what tasted like Ranch dressing. I asked for it to go, which he forgot so I had to ask again. the food was fresh but nothing special taste wise. They really fixed this place up creating a pleasant environment. It was originally a Kentucky Fried Chicken Restaurant back in the day. The cashier's young son was sitting on the counter where the food was served with his bare feet...kinda gross. There was also a man in line who kept shouting at cars that drove by. The initial crowds seemed to have faded. If I crave Mexican food, I'd prefer to drive to Kaneohe's El Mariachi, which is authentically Mexican.
(2)David S.
I tried a pork taco, fish taco and shrimp taco and they were all amazing. My son tried the shredded beef burrito and said that it too was delicious.
(5)Calin P.
My wife and i ordered the fish tacos special and fish burrito special. Really good tacos, a lot of flavor and plenty of fish inside. The fish burrito was not even close. We could not taste the fish because it was packed with beans and rice or maybe there was no fish at all. I would go back there for the fish tacos only.
(2)K C.
We stopped here going to our house we rented. Very good pulled pork tacos. cheap and they have a punch card, if u order 10 meals u get 1 free.
(4)Niels S.
Seeing as how I am a sucker for tacos that aren't made by a chain when I saw this place I decided to drop in and try it out. I got the steak tacos and I must say they were pretty good although the beans and rice that accompanied the taco were so-so. The dining area is nice and casual and is an open air joint. I would definitely eat there again.
(3)Garett J.
Nice place, been back once already. Excellent prices. Steak quesadilla, fish tacos, shrimp tacos, and green sauce are all wonderful. The chicken burrito and shrimp tacos were average. The atmosphere was perfect as was the customer service. Will be back again.
(4)Jay R.
The sweet pork burrito with red sauce was delicious! I grew up eating home cooked Mexican food so I feel like I have a good point of reference.
(5)JJ C.
Great Fresh Food! Had tacos and burritos with chicken, sweet pork and chicken. Was super.... Similiar to Chipolte's burritos. Prices reasonable compared with Honolulu prices. Shout out to Christian who took our order!
(5)Denny P.
Two fish tacos. Extra surfing sauce on the side. Oh my. There's been two separate experiences when I ordered the same thing. One way ive been is phenomenal, the cook blackened the tuna just a little bit and its worth 5 stars for sure. The other the tuna is cooked, but just so, which is tasty, but doesn't blow me away. Also, I don't know what's in that surfin' / green sauce but it's delicious. Could be slurm, still wouldn't stop me.
(4)Jesse C.
Always drove by this spot and seen the sign, "#1 fish tacos." That's a mighty hefty claim. So on today's trip we stopped by on our way to Waimea bay and got a few of their #1s. After a short drive further down we ended up at Laie Point. Cuz you know we gotta jump off the ledge. And after play time we get hungry. I plowed the fish taco and washed it down with my strawberry lemonade. Good? Yes. Great? Yes. #1? I'm not sure. I say it was delicious and moist. But #1 seems like a stretch but then again who wants to visit #2 fish taco joint? Not me.
(4)JJ L.
I am my father's son -- I hate Mexican food. I like to think of Surfin' Tacos as the place to get Mexican food for people who hate Mexican food. My sister and her family live out near the North Shore so I take the occasional trek to visit them and enjoy the pristine views and beaches on that side of the island. Since moving back to Oahu almost a year ago I watched the once vacant building with metal roll-up garage doors and a ratty paint job transform into a rustic and breezy Mexican restaurant called Surfin' Tacos. With surf boards posted on the walls as decor and a mural of the Hau'ula coast painted behind the makeshift performance stage/space, you feel like throwing up a shaka and twirling your hair into dreds so you can become the next Kelly Slater super surfer. Actually, you just get really hungry thinking about and smelling your food being prepared. Here's the scoop: 1. CONSISTENT & FRESH -- I've eaten here several times for both lunch and dinner and the food is always consistent, tasty and fresh. The lettuce in the salad is always crisp and the grilled chicken/beef/shrimp is always hot and grilled to order. The beans and rice are always moist and never have the taste of sitting in a chafing dish or crock pot for days. 2. DELICIOUS -- the concoctions aren't cliche Mexican, but rather offshoots of typical Mexican dishes. I despise burritos, but the ones from Surfin' Tacos are jam-packed with your choice of meat, beans and rice, served with a side of shredded lettuce, sour cream, guacomole, and pico de gallo. There is a "special sauce" that's served with the salad that holds addictive properties -- I can only guess that it's a mix of guacomole and ranch. 3. AFFORDABLE -- if you're like me, it's always disgusting to have to pay more than 10 bucks for meat and vegetables wrapped up in a store bought tortilla wrap. The portions here are big enough to satisfy and share between two people and the prices are practical. This is the only location of Surfin' Tacos and that is the only downfall because it's so far out and away from town. But it's a big sigh of relief to have this restaurant in the neighborhood because it raises the bar of food quality and provides delicious grinds. I'd recommend stopping through here on your stay-cation and driving out to North Shore. 4 solid Yelp stars only because I have to save the 5th one for the Mexican restaurant that converts me into loving the food.
(4)Lori T.
We ate here on our way to the Polynesian Cultural Center. The person at the counter was very friendly and helpful. We loved our fish and carnitas tacos and the sides. We also tried the raspberry lemonade which was very tasty. I love fish tacos and these were very good!
(5)Sean S.
Great food I would comeback anytime. It is a little expensive for what it is but it is great food. Also there hot sauce is really good w/ the tacos. If your in the area stop by.
(4)Tawnie M.
I wish we wouldn't have stopped here. First impression, this place is filthy. I can only imagine what the kitchen looks like. The garbage was overflowing, tables were all dirty, there was food on the floor, etc, etc. Gordon Ramsay would have a fit. I asked the waitress if she could give me something to clean our table and she said she would come and do it. She finally came over and pushed a rag around the table but failed to remove the empty bottle that the previous customer had left. Then she set down the cleaning supplies on the next table over and disappeared. The food was not good at all. My husband and I both wanted shrimp tacos but we were told that they were out of both shrimp and fish. We ordered chicken instead. Their "grilled" chicken is not grilled at all, it's boiled and shredded. It was SO salty. The cook clearly doesn't taste his/her own food. The beans and rice, on the other hand, had almost no salt but way too much cumin. The one waitress in the place was inattentive and vanished after she delivered our food. We never saw her again. I warned another couple who arrived as we were leaving to look for a better option. I would NEVER eat here again.
(1)Jameson S.
Discalimer: Living in southern CA, Mexican food is aplenty, making it difficult to compare to mexican food out in Hawaii. If this was in California, it would be 2 stars. Surfin' Tacos is across the street from the place we are staying so we thought we would test it out. This place was descent to fill the belly, but sub-par compared our typical mexican food stops. She had: a chicken burrito and if we hadn't known we ordered chicken I would have guessed it had been a bean and rice burrito. The enchilada sauce over it was descent, but not enough kick for her liking. Overall okay if you aren't picky and don't mind a very americanized burrito. He had: the fish tacos which were made with grilled fish and came with sides of beans and rice. The beans and rice lacked flavor which was a bummer. The fish tacos tasted fresh, but didnt compare to the typical fried fish tacos with the mayo based sauce. They could have used some hot sauce to enhance the flavors. Can't say we would give them the title of "best fish tacos around" as they claim. Biggest bummer of them all is $25 later for these two items and a drink, their were no chips and salsa. All in all, a clean environment, friendly service, but based on the food we ordered I wouldn't add it to my must visit mexican food stops
(3)Tommy J.
One of the best fish tacos I ever had! Large portions made for two meals. A good place for simple foods in it's open air seating.
(4)Nathan W.
This place is excellent. Sweet pork and fish tacos are fantastic. Ginger lemonade is delicious. Great local place.
(4)Canvus G.
Wasn't really in the mood for fish tacos when my family was in the mood for fish. Thank god they had the shredded steak nachos! Super delicious along with their ginger lemonade!
(4)Sylvia F.
Saw this place a few weeks ago and finally ended up in the north shore again to check it out. Food is tasty, service was quick, and the open air space is nice. A friend got the Chicken Nachos (hefty serving) and I sampled their sweet pork taco (in a flour tortilla). The food tasted fresh and came with a pretty nice cream cilantro sauce of sorts. It's definitely a stop worth making if you're in Hau'ula, just to check it out and give them some business. For myself, I can cross another mexi place off the list but if I'm in the area and hungry i'll definitely stop by to try more of their fares. altho i did eat at luibuenos that night...!
(2)Krista G.
Best fish tacos on the North Shore, maybe on the entire island. Puts Killer Tacos and Cholo's to shame. We drive almost an hour to just eat here every month. Chill atmosphere, close to the beach, great service.
(5)Patty W.
We stopped by North Shore Tacos for a little lunch yesterday during the rainstorms. The staff are so welcoming and suggested we get the fish tacos. We ordered the fish and sweet pork tacos. Both were outstanding!! They come with a choice of beans and rice , do it' will fill you up. Definitely worth a stop!
(5)Alysia E.
I can't really give any stars for what I intended to review for this place because I ordered two fish tacos, the guy took our order we paid for them and waited...and waited some more. Shortly after, another couple tried to place an order when the guy said they had run out of food. Which made me wonder if that was the reason my tacos weren't ready yet. I waited another 15 minutes before asking politely what the hold up was. They had not only in fact ran out of food but, forgot that I'd placed an order and paid. They apologized and refunded my money and gave me a free desert and a sprite. That's all I have on this place
(2)One Hungry G.
I ordered the, apparently, "#1 fish tacos." I was very disappointed. The fish was chopped in bits and pieces and the green sauce overpowered everything. It was a very salty taco. The rice and beans inside the taco were actually very moist and tasty. .
(2)Johnny H.
AWESOME!! Loved this spot! Was on the north shore for a week and went here at least 3 times! Friendly employees and great bang for your buck!
(5)Megan V.
My husband, myself and our three kids love this place!!! I LOVE the green sauce and could drink it by the gallon LOL My husband loves the fish tacos and kids love just about everything else!! I have had tacos, burritos, nachos, and salads all smothered in green sauce and loved them all equally. I really love their sweet BBQ Pork or carne Asada. My only complaint is that it's an hour away and I can't go there more often!
(5)Daniel W.
They boast the #1 fish taco and they are spot on. It was they tastiest fresh fish taco I have ever had. I am here for a weeks vacation and I am staying 40 minutes away I happened to be in the area for the Polynesian cultural center it's about 5 before the entrance. I made it a point of stopping and it was a fantastic experience. The meals are roughly about $8-$10 each (fish being $10). I am going to make it a point to get back thee one more time before I leave the island.
(5)Dalia L.
Eh... definitely not the best fish tacos I've ever had. It's conveniently placed but aside from that. The customer service and quality of the food isn't that great.
(2)Maggie B.
I love this place! We come here all the time for a special treat. The salads are the way to go! They are big and filling. This place is a mix of Costa Vida and Cafe Rio if you are familiar with them. Mmmmm.
(5)Julia H.
I've tried this place twice and the second (and definitely last) time was really disappointing. Here's the low down: My husband and I decided to go out for dinner on a week night. I was excited since that meant no cooking for me! We got there and the place was completely empty, but I didn't mind since it was a week night. I ordered shredded beef tacos and my husband got a beef carnitas burrito with red sauce. Luckily, that's exactly what we wanted before we got there because we were told there was no chicken or fish. There was also only an option for red sauce instead of red OR green that night. But, wait...that's not all. Only option for beans was pinto-no more black AND no pico de gallo either. If you're running a business, shouldn't you know how much inventory to get?! Anyway, on to how the actual food tasted. My husband thought his burrito was just "okay" - he told me some of the beef was burnt. My tacos were pretty gross. I forgot to ask for corn instead of flour and they never asked me for the option so I ended up getting flour when my food came, but that was partly my fault. The meal comes with two tacos and a side of beans and rice. The taco also comes with this disgusting greenish sauce. The beef and lettuce were literally DRENCHED in it and all I could taste from it was the sauce. I felt really sick afterwards. All in all, we are never coming here again. I have to admit, the Dr. Pepper and guacamole were tasty though!
(1)Mandy A.
Friendly, but REALLY SLOW. The food was good
(3)Ed J.
Being from California I was thinking it was a Mexican taco shop. Actually its more of a Brazilian style rice and beans and tacos. Honestly the beans and rice were really bland and undercooked. I think beans should be soft when cooked not firm like out of a can. The fish was fresh but again quite bland. I just soaked everything in Tabasco to give it some flavor. Their salsa/hot sauce was also watered down as well. It was $11.45 for the combo. Drive down a little further there are other options.
(2)Natasha L.
Would have been great if we didn't have the best ever fish tacos at the farmers market. They will do if u are in the mood for a decent taco. Didn't care for the rice or beans.
(3)Michelle M.
I ate here a couple of times while working out in Hauula...there really isnt much out there, right? The customer service was great! Everyone was very helpful...the place was nice and clean. Looked like they were able ot have some events and performances so that seems pretty cool for the area. The food is why I was there and it was just meh... I guess I shouold start by saying that I don't really prefer Mexican food. Just something about it makes me think that it isnt really that great of a thing...Having said that, I have had great Mexican. This is sadly not great Mexican food. I had the pork burrito and I found the meat to be VERY VERY SWEET! WTH? Was it really supposed to be sugary sweet? I just couldnt understand it. The HOT sauce was so not hot...the rice and the beans were good tho...so I give em that. I guess I just didnt understand the sweetness. I was looking for a robust and zesty flavor but was disappointed by the level of sweetness in it's place. SMH...
(2)Greg S.
Joey, you're the man! Respect the amazing fish tacos and the sweet pork tacos are an island favorite preferred by Hawaiians, Tongans, Samoans, and now...LONG Islanders!
(5)Brian W.
If you want frozen fish tacos that take forever to reach your plate ... then this is the place! Our food took over an hour (despite the cashier indicating the food would take about 15 minutes) as we sat bored and freezing in complete silence....oh wait there was a 70's surfing movie to kill the time. Who knows what the other 3 employees were doing in the back - we'd see them from time to time going to the bathroom. The cashier would also disappear - I'm sure they were all struggling to defrost all the food that had just been ordered by my family and the other 3 families also sadly waiting. The atmosphere was dull and unfriendly staff (it was 6pm when we arrived on a Saturday night). Music would be nice. When the food finally arrived it looked as if I had ordered chicken tacos instead of the fish tacos. After picking through the mounds of lettuce - you'd think I had ordered a veggie taco, but nope an over cooked (thawed out) fish taco. The pork taco was just as bland with a watery sauce that ran right out the taco when you lifted it to your mouth. Chips should be offered for free during the long wait $4.50, really?! Would not recommend or return during future visits to Hawaii. Sunset Magazine must've had a good day or gone mad crazy 'cuz North Shore Taco is not the best, unless they were comparing it to the empty Koren BBQ restaurant across the street!
(1)Jay B.
Great little taco spot. Had the Shrimp Taco's...they were deliscious!!! Found out the secret sauce comes with all the Taco's though. Wouldn't go out of my way to go here, but the next time I'm on the North Shore I'm there!!!
(4)Rob F.
This place has the easy going laid back feel of the islands which in this case is a bad thing. Apparently they need more help here because the service was not quick but in fact very slow. No one should have to wait a half hour for a simple taco. I guess I came on particularly busy night. This place has a Cafe Rio feel to it without the fast service. I took one bite from someone who let me try their burrito. After waiting a half hour for my tacos I gave up and asked for my money back. Which they gave to me and they didn't even try to make good with me or give me my meal for free. Thanks for nothing!
(1)Jason Y.
Not very good. I am a big fan of Mexican food, yet Surfin Tacos can hardly be called Mexican. After giving the menu a quick glance, I decided on the fresh fish tacos. I asked if it came with rice and beans - as one would expect from a Mexican dish. The girl at the counter assured me the plate did indeed come with these items and I could choose between black beans and pinto beans. I told her I would like refried beans. I was then notified that the beans are not exactly refried. I asked her what she meant by this and she responded the beans were not mashed. Ok fine, but your rice is Spanish rice, no? Er, not exactly. I guess it is there own version of Spanish rice - without tomato! Wow, I thought this was supposed to me Mexican food. Anyway, I'll just have the fresh fish burrito. Now I know I am not eating Mexican food. The rice was white, and not cooked well; not to my taste anyway, and definitely not to what one would expect from good Mexican food. And the "pinto" beans I asked to have in my burrito were not pinto, but what appeared to be red kidney beans. But the bottom line, the burrito was ok. I ate it. The red sauce, or what should have been salsa rojo, that covered the burrito was not too good and I was surprised to find three black olive slices on top, nevertheless, the fillings were disappointing. I may be setting the bar high for a "surfin taco" Mexican joint in Hauula, but don't claim to be "Hawaii's Best Mexican Grill" and not even serve Mexican cuisine. One star because the price. I would have rated two but the plate killed a ten dollar bill. Although I would have preferred to have Mexican food worth the price I paid.
(1)Sarah G.
Husband and I stopped for fish tacos on our drive back from the North Shore. They might have tasted better to me had my husband not told me how disgusting the bathroom there was (he's from Cuba, and so when he tells me a bathroom is gross, I know it is BAD.) Ugh. That quickly squashed any desire I had to eat tacos. I still ate it and it was okay but I did find a big bone in one of my fish pieces. The rice and black beans that came with the tacos were cold and hard.
(1)Karen M.
Probably the best fish tacos we've ever eaten, and the four of us are from San Diego where they were invented! The price is $5 each, but don't let that keep you from buying them (like my husband did), and order two. You'll be sorry if you don't! And the hot sauce is HOT, and we loved it!!!
(5)A C.
I highly suggest the nachos with secret green sauce!! My girlfriend ordered that and I was jealous. The green sauce is delicious - savory, creamy, a bit tangy...We asked what was in it, but apparently it's a secret :) My shrimp burrito was solid but nothing to write home about. The shrimp was generous and grilled nicely, but the fillings were a bit boring. The actual eating area is cool, since one side is open-air (at least it was when I was there) and you can enjoy the weather. There appeared to be a performance area (a stage with drums) and flat screen TVs looped some footage of extreme sports... Next time I'm in the area, I'll be sure to try something with green sauce on it!
(3)O O.
I'm kicking in one extra star above A-OK because I think this place holds promise. Yes, it was a bit pricy and there was too much cumin in the rice but they do char grill their meat and fish. It makes a world of difference while calculating the umami factor. A lot of people don't realize the cost of doing business in Hawaii is prohibitive and I give props to those who take a stab. And one wouldn't think selling a seafood product in Hawaii would be costly. But it most definitely is. A little cutesy shack selling fish tacos near some of the world's most breathtaking beaches? It ain't cheap to operate, I'm speculating. The portions are just OK, not quite enough for a hungry surfer, per se. Two small soft shelled tacos of choice with black beans and rice for 9 dolla is about right, maybe they turn a light profit on that and the fish and meat portions are pretty small. Still you can taste the char broil on them and that's what makes this place a do over for me. It's near L and L, which on the day I went was doing less business than Surfin tacos. A puzzlement considering L n L is the go to for cheap eats. Mind you, L n L in town co-habitates with 2 large rats (see my previous review) but I still go there. Dang local that I is. So Surfin' Tacos does the pico de gaio delish and it adds that zingy punch to the mouthful of smoky, salty fish chunk-lettes. The beef is beefy tasting and the fish is not stink fishy, but fresh fishy good. So all of you Caliponi's (and if you don't know what this means, I'm alright with it) keep to your Mexicali opinions in your pie hole and let Surfin' Tacos do their thing. I'm absolutely sure that they are struggling to make ends meet while they kick out a decent (not great) plate of food for a moderate (not cheap) price. They can only improve. The locals wouldn't have it any other way.
(4)Tony G.
I stop by this place because I sow the huge sign says "# 1 Fish tacos" I would give them only one star but the girl behind the counter was very helpful and friendly. Anyways., they are still # 1 , bur from the end.
(2)Jessie W.
Expectations were exceeded. Truly, the best fish tacos I have ever had. It's their special sauce! My boyfriend had a fish chimichanga, which was the size of a small infant, and he ate it so quickly, the fork en route to his mouth was a blur. The only downside was the wait time, which was substantial. Especially considering it was late on a Monday night.
(4)Throw R.
Been here twice now (god knows why I went back :-/) and realize that it is mediocre at best. Nachos are best thing I've had there but weren't too good. Chips were stale, obviously some Costco bulk bag of chips or something. Very small portions of meat, so small that you almost think that they are gonna be like "jk homie!!". Total joke. Go here if you like burritos consisting of 80% rice 10% beans 8% tortilla 1% sour cream and 1% meat. Can't really see anyone actually giving this place a good review, but you never know. Only redeeming factor is that it's a pretty cool building and open air.
(2)Carey J.
I live on the opposite side of the island so I've only been there twice but it was sooo good, and more than I could eat.
(4)August A.
I've spent days thinking about a way to articulate an idea of taste for Surfin' Tacos and this is what I've come up with: White people, Mexican Food. Burritos are alright, mostly beans and rice rather than protein but I dealt with it. Truthfully, if I weren't as extremely hungry as I was that day (no food for 18hrs, jogging at 3am, and surfing@Pounder's 3pm), I would've drove from Laie to Waimanalo to get food from Sergs. It reminds me of a fast food version of Cholos. Service is great. Karaoke and Live bands are scheduled to start playing in Surfin' Tacos, so I expect the place to pick up. So as a last resort, yes Surfin' Tacos is excellent...
(3)Sharon H.
Good fish tacos you have to try at least that. I hate it when I go to Mexican place and the fish is deep fried. This place is fresh and not fishy. Seafood lovers know if it smells fishy then it wasn't fresh and deep frying it def covers that up. This is Mexican food with a Hawaiian twist. Sorry if it's not authentic enough for you but it's the north shore. If you have a big group order the Kalua pork nachos for the table while you wait for the rest of the food. I always go here when I have friends and family visiting from the mainland or just happen to be cruising around the island.
(4)Franco A.
No consistency, as every time we go, the amounts of food and taste in their sauces change. If it is busy it may take a while to your food. Overall good clean and inviting environment with live local music most weekends.
(2)Donna W.
We ordered Gnarly Nachos (with fish) and a Fish Burrito. Both items were amazing. The fish was seasoned perfectly and there was a lot of it. The staff was incredibly friendly as well. We will definitely be back!!!
(5)Bong R.
Just ate lunch here and ordered what the lady at the counter called "the best fish tacos in the North Shore". If this is the best fish taco the North Shore has to offer, then your better off getting a sandwich at Subway. Barely any fish in the taco, wasn't fresh, and I couldn't even tell how they cooked the fish. Already when walking in I noticed that the place wasn't exactly clean and well kept. Don't even bother using the restrooms. Gave the review a one star b/c the lady over the counter at least gave a smile.
(1)Christian W.
I love this new family restaurant, I'm not sure if I'll be going back to Taco Bell in Laie anytime soon because Surfin's Taco's burritos are simply awesome. It's nice to watch sporting events on their HD TV sets. The staff is very friendly. It's a nice place to relax in Hau'ula. I like the free and abundant parking. They are open for lunch and dinner. Closed on Sundays. - Good For Groups - Good For Kids - Take Out - Outdoor Seating
(5)Momo N.
First time we came here they had a gas leak and couldn't cook food. So I decided to try again. They claimed to have great fish tacos, but i was really feeling for nachos and ordered that. I ordered one with sweat pork and had sides of steak and chicken to try out the other meats they offered. Overall the meats were dry and the chicken had no flavor. The sweat pork was tough and needed a bit more savory flavor. The steak was also dry. They did include a side of the fish dressing which was unique and excellent. This must be what makes their fish tacos so good. I must try one next time. But for now their meats get very low ratings.
(2)