Mariscos Jalisco's Shrimp Tacos Put Pomona on the Map

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Mariscos Jalisco, a restaurant with two food trucks in Los Angeles and one small storefront in Pomona, has been recognized by the New York Times and Michelin Guide for its standout shrimp tacos. The restaurant's owner, Raul Ortega, opened the Pomona location in 2018, and the columnist has been a fan of the "lightly fried" taco with "fresh shrimp inside" and "bits of shrimp and avocado and a smear of salsa" on the outside.

Why it matters

Mariscos Jalisco's recognition by prestigious food publications like the New York Times and Michelin Guide is a big deal for the Inland Empire, a region that often gets overlooked compared to its coastal counterparts. The restaurant's success highlights the growing culinary scene in the area and shows that high-quality, unique dishes can put a city like Pomona on the map.

The details

Mariscos Jalisco opened its Pomona location in 2018, adding to its two existing food trucks in Los Angeles. The restaurant's signature shrimp taco, which the New York Times called an "unequaled version, complete with a crunchy shell that collapses like tempura, as well as a rich and savory filling," has earned it praise from both the Times and the Michelin Guide. The Michelin Guide also noted the "modest but cherished site in Pomona" and said "first-time customers start with a single order, while regulars get right to business with a whole plate of them."

• Mariscos Jalisco opened its Pomona location in 2018.
• The New York Times featured Mariscos Jalisco's shrimp tacos in its "The 25 Essential Dishes to Eat in Los Angeles" list in 2026.
• The Michelin Guide awarded Mariscos Jalisco decals in 2021 and 2025, making it the only Inland Empire restaurant to receive this prestigious recognition.