Home United States California Mexican restaurants Rita's Margaritas & Mexican Grill Mexican restaurants

Rita's Margaritas & Mexican Grill

4.2 576 reviews 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM 855 8th St, Arcata, CA 95521, United States

Discover this place

Rita's Margaritas & Mexican Grill, located in the heart of Arcata, California, has garnered rave reviews for its vibrant atmosphere and authentic Mexican cuisine. Diners appreciate the generous portions, evident in one reviewer's experience with a vegan burrito that could rival a forearm in size. This highlights the restaurant's commitment to catering to a variety of dietary preferences, including vegan and gluten-free options.

Guests often mention the lively ambiance, especially during special occasions like Taco Tuesday, where the place buzzes with energy. A memorable birthday celebration featured not just great food but also delightful margaritas — the lime margarita and a tequila birthday shot being standout favorites! The attentive staff adds to the experience, ensuring that every visit feels special.

The culinary offerings are as diverse as the clientele, with a staggering selection of over 15 taco options, satisfying every palate. Rita’s salsa and signature margaritas, made with real fruit, receive particular acclaim, making it a must-visit for both locals and travelers alike. Overall, Rita's Margaritas & Mexican Grill is a celebration of flavor, culture, and community in Arcata.

Photos

Rita's Margaritas & Mexican Grill - Photo 1 Rita's Margaritas & Mexican Grill - Photo 2 Rita's Margaritas & Mexican Grill - Photo 3 Rita's Margaritas & Mexican Grill - Photo 4 Rita's Margaritas & Mexican Grill - Photo 5 Rita's Margaritas & Mexican Grill - Photo 6

Amenities & More

Service options

  • Outdoor seating
  • Delivery
  • Onsite services
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in

Highlights

  • Fast service
  • Great beer selection
  • Great cocktails
  • Serves local specialty

Popular for

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining

Dining options

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Dessert
  • Seating
  • Table service

Amenities

  • Bar onsite
  • Restroom

Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Cozy
  • Trendy

Crowd

  • College students
  • Groups
  • Tourists
Note: Amenity details are aggregated from verified visits, the venue's website and Google. They may change without notice. We recommend confirming key details (pet policy, accessibility, reservations) directly with Rita's Margaritas & Mexican Grill before visiting.

Reviews for Rita's Margaritas & Mexican Grill

4.2
576 reviews
5
100%
4
48%
3
15%
2
7%
1
9%

Review highlights

Based on 576 reviews

Rita's Margaritas & Mexican Grill in Arcata is widely appreciated for its authentic Mexican cuisine, accommodating a range of dietary preferences including vegan and gluten-free options. The restaurant’s generous portions, particularly notable in items like burritos and enchiladas, receive frequent praise. Guests often highlight the quality of the salsa and the unique, flavorful margaritas, some featuring fresh fruit components. Service is consistently described as friendly and attentive, contributing to a welcoming and lively atmosphere that suits both casual dinners and larger celebrations. Outdoor seating and a communal environment enhanced by music and occasional sporting events add to the overall experience. While the space may lack a traditional bar area, the staff's efficiency and the venue’s late hours, especially on popular nights such as Taco Tuesday, help maintain a bustling social vibe. Some minor concerns about food freshness appear infrequent but do not overshadow mostly positive feedback.

Cole Graham
Jun 08, 2025

Had a dinner here with two friends while working, took us a minute to find the olla e for some Reason but after we sat down I had a tasty vegan burrito that was way bigger than my forearm. I could only eat 1/3 of it cuz I wasn’t that hungry, had a michelada too. I took the burrito back to the hotel and it sat in my fridge for two days then I ate it last night and I think maybe it got mouldy or something cuz I had a stomach ache afterwards. 5/5 stars. Thanks for vegan options

River Walkington
May 17, 2025

Really great experience here! Went with a large group for my birthday and experienced great service and really authentic food. There was a soccer game on and fun music. Lime margarita was delicious and they even gave me a tequila birthday shot at the end!

SHAZAM LIFESTYLE
May 16, 2025

This quaint little place is located on the Southwest side of the town square. Just ask anybody for Rita's and they will point it out to you. On a Tuesday, this was the only place in town opened after 8:00 P.M. Thank God for taco Tuesday. The place was packed including the patio area where some music was playing on a speaker. Everyone from the wait staff, to the servers, and bartenders were very attentive. The soft tacos were generously proportioned and seasoned. There's over 15 different choices on the taco Tuesday menu including vegetarian options. Let's just say there's something on the menu to cater to every pallette. Don't forget the margaritas. We ended up with a pitcher made with 1800 tequila. It was the perfect combination of salt, sugar, lime, and tequila. Keep an eye out for Ed, the owner. So if you're ever in Arcata, make sure to stop by Rita and enjoy a Margarita ... especially on Taco Tuesday. Enjoy!

Molly Fitz
May 15, 2025

One of my favorite mexican places in arcata. I love their salsa, red enchiladas/ wet burritos. The service is pretty great too. There is outdoor seating which is nice. The bar area seems to not be present idk if that’s because of covid or because the staff needs the space. Pretty quick service too depending on when you get there

Brady Griggs
Mar 31, 2025

The salsa is so good, I get it now! Great service, great margaritas, great food. The margarita had actual pieces of mango in it, and I was able to find vegan gluten free options really easily. I have a wheat allergy and wasn't set off at all. Def recommend the chorizo tofu!

Seth Gehman
Mar 28, 2025

The best selection of vegan Mexican food I've found in Humboldt. I love the tofu chorizo and the potatoes with chipotle peppers for my tacos, and they make the best micheladas on the north coast!

Lindsey Clopp
Mar 28, 2025

Super fun Mexican spot with good quality food. The service is attentive and lovely, the margaritas are huge, and the food is solid. Great option for folks getting to town late in the evening because it’s one of the only places open past 8pm.

Cyril Oberlander
Mar 26, 2025

Great location, really enjoy the outdoor seating area. Very helpful customer service, and delicious food.

Write a review

Share your experience with the community. Your honest feedback helps others find great places.

Quick info

Address
855 8th St, Arcata, CA 95521, United States
Price range
$10–20
Category
Mexican restaurants

Opening hours

  • Monday 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Tuesday (Today) 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Wednesday 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Thursday 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Friday 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Saturday 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Sunday 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Location

Own this business?

Claim this listing to update info, respond to reviews and reach more customers.

Claim listing

Discover more places like this

Browse thousands of bars, restaurants, cafés and more — wherever you go.

View Menu