Tom Polous
La Estancia in Riverside is one of those gems that makes you slow down and savor every bite. I tried their veggie taco, and it was outstanding — colorful roasted carrots, cauliflower, and broccoli piled high on warm tortillas, topped with fresh cilantro and served with a wedge of lime. It was simple, vibrant, and bursting with flavor.
What I love is that they don’t treat vegetarian options like an afterthought. This taco had a smoky, charred depth from the veggies, a brightness from the lime, and that satisfying warmth of homemade tortillas. It felt both hearty and fresh at the same time.
The restaurant itself has a cozy, welcoming vibe — the kind of place where you can sit with friends, enjoy authentic flavors, and not feel rushed. It’s clear they put care into their food, whether it’s traditional meats or something plant-based.
If you’re in Riverside and craving Mexican food, La Estancia deserves a spot on your list. And if you’re vegetarian (or just taco-curious), don’t miss the veggie taco — it’s proof that sometimes the simplest dishes shine the brightest. ✨
… moreCarlos Ceballos
Went to breakfast place right next to this corner restaurant. Newly opened and it was really nice inside.. food was also really good, as was the coffee and cookie they give you.. highly recommend this place!!
… moreIsai Bernal
Have been going for their Molcajete loaded with Shrimp, Chicken & Steak with their different sauces. The Owner Claudia is very friendly and attentive along with their staff always making sure my experience is always an amazing one here. I highly recommend it come try it won’t be disappointed, support small businesses.
… moreMatt Spencer
The refried beans were the best I’ve ever had, service was super friendly, professional, and genuine The prices were low as well with 2 for 1 margaritas for their happy hour (2-5pm). Can’t recommend this place enough!
… moreSteve Jernberg
This restaurant has been open for about 5 years (that’s what they told us). It is one of the cleanest restaurants I’ve ever been in. The decore is what I thick they would refer to as Tele Nuevo (what I was told by a friend). Very cool! The food was delicious. I had one is the lunch combos. Those Tamales are perfect. If you like hot all for the hot salsa.
… moreShakila B
I had an amazing experience at La Estancia! If you’re craving authentic Mexican cuisine, this is the place to be. The service provided by Roberto was exceptional – he went above and beyond to ensure our dining experience was enjoyable. The margaritas were incredibly delicious, especially with the added bonus of happy hour prices. The ambiance of the restaurant was lovely and we felt warmly welcomed from the moment we walked in. I highly recommend La Estancia to anyone looking for a fantastic dining experience.
… moreT Val
This was our first time at this restaurant. My feelings about this restaurant are mixed.
The waiter was nice. I unfortunately did not get his name. I think our experience is lack of understanding the culture. We tried to order tacos on the flower tortilla instead of a corn and I don’t think he understood he said yes, but we still got corn tortillas. That was fine. They were good. The food is very good. But then we ordered Water and he said they don’t have water you had to buy bottled water. I am in my 60s. I have never been told. I cannot have a glass of water at a restaurant.
I will say again the food was good. When we were done, he brought over a little handheld machine in his hand and told us our total, he never even gave us a bill. Again, I have never been to a restaurant where they don’t hand you a physical check so you can look at it and see what you ordered and what you will be paying for.
He told my husband the total and my husband paid it, and that was it. I never in my entire life would ever pay for something I didn’t physically see with my own eyes that I was being charged properly for what I ordered. The amount sounded right so I didn’t say anything, But like I said, I would never have paid without having a receipt Physically in my hand. It’s just not proper business. Plus, I save all my receipts for my expenses at the end of the month.
As much as I enjoyed the food, I don’t know if I’ll be back. I should be able to get a glass of water and I should be able to get a paper check in my hand.
Thank you for reading to my review.
… moreAlma Nunez
The food was absolutely delicious! My daughter ordered mole enchiladas, she truly enjoyed them. I ordered the molcajete with a mixture of grilled shrimp, steak chicken, cactus and grilled cheese in a scrumptious sauce….and WOW!! My michelada was also so tasty!! Plates were plentiful in quantity, quality and very reasonably priced. Another huge plus was the customer service, the lady was very sweet, accommodating and checked on us. In fact, two cooks also came out to check on the food and if we needed anything else. The location of the restaurant is in the beautiful Riverside downtown, very busy, vibrant and seemingly full with satisfied customers, as restaurant was very busy. I highly recommend!!
… moreMy Life- DIY
Delightful dishes. The second time I have been there. The chicken enchiladas were like no other that I’ve ever had and highly recommend. The margaritas were happy hour but very weak, but when asked, they brought a shot to add to it.
… moreSarah Stark
We had a lovely Sunday lunch here. The atmosphere is very chill, with a nice outdoor patio if thats your thing! Service was very friendly and attentive. The margaritas were stiff but well balanced and delicious, and the steak tacos and quesebirria were AWESOME. Will definitely be back!
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