Cyndi Huffman
We were SO excited to try this place out because it actually had a lot better reviews than most of the places that we looked at in town (29 Palms). We had spent the day at Joshua Tree national Park exploring and we’re looking forward to some Mexican food. What a disappointment. When we walked in, there was only one other couple there. Got a lot busier while we were there. Typical for a Friday evening I would imagine in a tourist town. For some reason, even though it was a quite chilly evening, the inside of the restaurant was absolutely freezing. We looked over the menu and placed an order for the combo fajitas and for the Quesabirria dinner plate and one fountain drink. Both of which were supposed to be their specialty and had other good reviews. Our food took less than 10 minutes to come out. We had to ask for chips and salsa which we were supposed to be complementary. They were nothing to write home about. The salsa was flavorful, but super runny and hard to keep on a chip. We figured out the reason that our food came out so quickly was because it must’ve just been made ahead and reheated. Typical for birria but not fajitas. The chicken in the fajitas was awful. It tasted freezer burnt. And the steak was chewy. The quesabirria plate was awful as well. Was not very much meat and was full of grizzly fat. And for some reason, a random corn shell from a tamale in the sauce (see pic). Nothing had any flavor or just tasted off. The corn tortilla shells look like they may have been made in house, but were incredibly thick compared to other places that we’ve had authentic made ones. We eat out an awful lot and this was probably some of the worst Mexican food we have had ever. Would recommend avoiding this place. We both had stomach issues the couple days after we ate there. I’m guessing there was something wrong with the food. They are definitely not cooking to order and it wasn’t fresh – although it plated well. Just not good. The wait staff seemed OK. They weren’t really attentive, but did get what we needed when we asked. 3 people working. Wouldn’t really recommend coming to this place given the quality of the food, the atmosphere and prices were quite a bit high for what it was. $52 for two people – was a complete waste of money. Out stomachs are
still paying for it.
… moreNavita B
From the outside and walking in, it doesn’t look the best, but the customer service and the food are good! Would definitely recommend them and come back. They were so kind! I ordered the wet burrito (Chile Colorado) and it was BIG, I couldn’t finish it and had to take it to go.
Parking is plentiful and they give chips in the beginning after your order.
… moreKristina Phipps
First off, this place was pretty busy for a Monday night, and we were really excited to try it after reading all the reviews — especially since we’re from Montana and don’t have a lot of good Mexican restaurants. After spending two days in Vegas with great service and food, though, this experience ended up falling a little short for us.
You order at the cash register and tip ahead of time. We tipped 20%, understanding it’s a small town and they were busy. We waited about 15 minutes for our chips and guacamole appetizer — the guac was excellent, and although the chips didn’t seem super fresh, they did have a nice amount of salt. We did have to ask for the water jug to be refilled (it’s self-service), and we couldn’t find utensils or napkins available at that point.
Next, we waited about 40 minutes for our entrees. My quesadilla was tasty, aside from the guacamole sauce cup, which was a bit acidic for my preference. However, we still didn’t have utensils or napkins, so we had to track someone down to ask. My beans and rice came out about five minutes later and were lukewarm. Another five minutes after that, my partner received his fajitas with barely warm rice and beans but no tortillas. We again had to find someone to request them, and the first two tortillas brought out were crispy/hard. The correct tortillas finally arrived, but by then we were nearly finished.
Before we left, my partner mentioned our experience to the employee, who refunded our tip and seemed genuinely upset we hadn’t had a great time — it sounded like he thought we were saying the food itself was bad, which wasn’t our intention.
Overall, I think this place has potential — the flavors were good in parts — but the long wait times and missing basics like utensils, napkins, and timely sides made the visit challenging. I’d suggest coming here if you don’t mind asking for things and being patient with the pace
… moreTaylor Eubanks
*Excellent* local spot. The portions are huge and delicious, highly recommend. We stopped here after hiking in Joshua tree and it really hit the spot
… moreRyan Logan
You need to eat here! The food and the service is incredible. We stopped by here after hiking in Joshua Tree National Park. The food is delicious and, in my opinion, they had the best horchata I’ve ever tried. Will definitely come back here in the future!
… moreTess Lucas
Jasmine made us the most incredible lunch! We barely had to wait, and every single bite was bursting with flavour and clearly made with love. I don’t think I’ve ever had Mexican food this satisfying! It was fresh, comforting, and absolutely unforgettable. Highly recommend! I can’t wait to come back soon!
… moreNoah Garber
Came here for my birthday and as soon as staff heard I was celebrating they hosted me with such love. It made my night having Greg and the family that owns this restaurant treat me so well. Food was delicious, anytime I’m within driving distance of this place I plan on stopping in and eating. Rice and beans on the plate were delightful, one of my favorite dining experiences
… moreSara Ghanbarpour
This place is a hidden gem. We ordered three different tacos and they were so delicious. Before the meal, we were served with chips. I really liked the taco breads.
… moreShalin Shah
Visiting after a day of hiking.
Service is slow but it’s a small place and everything is fresh. It’s located in an odd little building but some of the best Mexican food I’ve had in a long time. Salsa was also stellar. I had the taquitos and salsa! I would highly recommend. Very friendly service as well.
… moreDavid Contreras
If you’re ever near the base in Twenty Nine Palms, do yourself a favor and stop by Taqueria Las Palms!
This isn’t just a restaurant — it’s a sanctuary for anyone craving real, soulful, home-cooked Mexican food and the kind of warmth you’d expect from family.
From the moment you walk in, you’re not treated like a customer — you’re treated like family. Jasmine, the daughter who helps run the place, somehow remembers everyone who walks through the door. She greets you with a smile and a story, checks in like an old friend, and makes sure every single person feels seen and valued.
Then there’s the food… and words genuinely fall short. Jasmine’s mom, the heart and soul of the kitchen, pours her pride and heritage into every single dish. You can taste the love in every bite. It doesn’t feel like you’re eating out — it feels like you’re sitting at your mom’s kitchen table after a long day, and she’s making your favorite meal just the way you like it.
To any Marine stationed out here — especially if you’re feeling homesick — this place will ground you. It’ll remind you of everything you miss about home, and it’ll do so with a plate of the best Mexican food you’ve probably ever had.
And to everyone else — if you think you’ve had authentic Mexican food, think again. Taqueria Las Palms sets the standard. It’s not just the best in town — it’s easily one of the best in the country.
Grateful doesn’t begin to cover how I feel about this place. This isn’t just a review — it’s a thank you!
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