Rita's Margaritas & Mexican Grill

4.2 ( 576 reviews )
Checking... 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM See Hours
$10–20
855 8th St, Arcata, CA 95521, United States
+1 707-822-1010

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.

Amenities and More

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Has wheelchair-accessible seating
    • Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Service options
    • Has outdoor seating
    • Offers delivery
    • Offers takeaway
    • Serves dine-in
  • Highlights
    • Has fast service
    • Has great beer selection
    • Serves great cocktails
  • Popular for
    • Popular for lunch
    • Popular for dinner
    • Good for solo dining
  • Offerings
    • Serves alcohol
    • Serves beer
    • Serves cocktails
    • Serves coffee
    • Serves comfort food
    • Serves food
    • Serves happy-hour drinks
    • Serves happy-hour food
    • Quick bite
    • Serves small plates
    • Serves spirits
    • Serves vegetarian dishes
    • Serves wine
  • Dining options
    • Serves lunch
    • Serves dinner
    • Serves dessert
    • Has seating
  • Amenities
    • Has bar on site
    • Has toilet
  • Atmosphere
    • Casual
    • Cosy
    • Trendy
  • Crowd
    • Good for groups
    • Popular with tourists
    • Popular with university students
  • Planning
    • Accepts reservations
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards
    • Accepts debit cards
    • Accepts NFC mobile payments
    • Credit cards
  • Children
    • Good for kids
    • High chairs available
    • Has kids' menu
  • Parking
    • Free of charge street parking
    • Free parking lot
    • Somewhat difficult to find a space

Reviews For Rita's Margaritas & Mexican Grill

Cole Graham
Jun 8,2025
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.

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