ALONG COMES MARY

I’ve had a love for Rubio’s Coastal Grill since I moved to SoCal over ten years ago. One of the original “fast-casual” dining experiences, Rubio’s began back in 1983 in San Diego’s Mission Bay neighborhood. Just a stone’s throw from Mexico, they quickly became a local’s favorite for the classic Baja Taco. Fast forward to today, and they’re a thriving chain with locations throughout California, Arizona, and Nevada. 

Always on the cutting edge of the latest culinary favorites, Rubio’s held their first-ever Fish Taco Battle this year. The battle invited taco lovers to create and submit their very own taco recipe. Three finalists were invited to Rubio’s San Diego Test Kitchen to cook their fish taco recipes live for a panel of judges, including Ralph Rubio. The grand prize? Their taco on the Rubio’s menu in nearly 150 locations.

Cynthia Phillips of Phoenix, Arizona, has been named the winner. Her special blend is the coconut shrimp mango salsa. As a lover of coconut and all things mango, I definitely approve. The winning taco is available from September 20th to October 10th. It will also be featured for National Taco Day, October 4.

With Rubio’s throughout California, here are five locations to enjoy Cynthia’s creation. Bon Appetit!

The prize winning taco!

San Diego

Where Rubio’s began. San Diego has become a favorite city of mine over the years, and it’s easy to see why. With a vast amount of diverse districts, you’ll find a whopping 13 locations of Rubio’s in San Diego County. Grab some bites and head to the beach to enjoy. 

Palm Springs 

Believe it or not, I’d never been to Palm Springs until three years ago. The desert escape for the stars back in the day, I adore the foodie scene and mod architecture. Knowing I could be walking where Marilyn Monroe or Rock Hudson did always leaves a smile on my face. Place your order and eat back at one of the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels. 

Long Beach

Where my Rubio’s love officially began! Living in Long Beach’s Belmont Shore, it’s no surprise I quickly became friends with their Second Street location. I love to enjoy Rubio’s at Rosie’s Off-leash Dog Beach. Hammy and Nova have a blast, too. 

Cynthia Phillips being announced the winner

Marina Del Rey

A gateway beach city to Santa Monica and Venice, take your tacos to nearby Burton Chase Park. Here. you can watch boats sail on by and even catch a glimpse of sea lions on the dock. It’s always a beautiful (and yummy) afternoon. 

Ventura

It’s no secret I love this sleeper beach town. You can pick up your plates at their Victoria Avenue shop after enjoying (or enduring?) one of the many hike options in town. My family and I love doing the seven-mile hike through downtown and up to Serra Cross Park once again. 

Try the Coconut Shrimp Mango Salsa Taco at Rubio’s 

Rubio’s has locations across California, Arizona, and Nevada. Guests are encouraged to order through the Rubio’s app or Rubios.com. For more information about Rubio’s Coastal Grill and to view the menu, visit Rubio’s, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

(*Disclosure: Special thanks to Rubio’s for sponsoring this post. All opinions are my own.)