Having grown up in Southern California, Rubio's Fish Tacos dotted the strip mall landscape of my youth. Perhaps it's due to my asian mother's asianess that I never ate much Mexican food as a child. Actually, most likely. So, having had Rubio's available to me all my life I'm a bit amazed I never ate here before this summer. Well, a friend took me to Rubio's and raved about their fish tacos. I was not sold. Needless to say, I am a believer. HOLY these tacos are good. SO GOOD. SOOOO GOOD. The street tacos are delicious too and the various burritos are quite tasty. But the selling point for me are still the fish tacos, especially on Tuesdays for $1.25. Because the food here is a bit pricey compared to other mexican (baja variety or not) restaurants. One day this past September Rubio's Fish Tacos were good enough to soothe the disappointment of failed Disneyland plans. If that's not as good as actually going to Disneyland, I don't know what is.
(5)
Paul D.
I used to come here a lot, years ago when I worked up the street - except I cannot remember what I ordered from there - or why I stopped. It was either they stopped making what I would eat, or whatever I would eat made me ill. When I went there on Thursday after all these years, I still couldn't figure out why I stopped coming back. Nothing sounded good - but the Chipolte Bacon salad sounded interesting - and apparently the fastest thing to make. My salad was ready before the 2 people who had been there long before we walked in.Which was funny, because even though the cashier said "Paul" before I could walk over, a lady went over and tried to pick up my bag and the cashier stopped her. She apologized and said she didn't even hear the name, just assumed that it was her food. The salad was decent, though it could use some more chipolte sauce and a little more chicken - or the same amount of chicken but sliced thinner so you could spread it around more. I'll probably go back another day to try something else - unless it finally dawns on me why I stopped going back.
(3)
Ben S.
This Rubios has the nicest employees. There are always coming by my table after I get my food and asking if everything is ok. Taco Tuesdays are a great deal. If you like to have your taco a little crispier, have them put the white sauce on the side. This is one of my favorite places to eat.
(5)
Al B.
I don't understand how this place rates so highly. Food is horrible and reminiscent of frozen food you get at the grocery store.
(1)
Rene G.
I'm all about customer service. this place is phenomenal. the food is good and enchiladas may vary depending on who is in the kitchen, i really dont know how it works but the cooks have their own unique style. parking could be hard but i never encounter this problems since i come here at 10 am when they open.
(5)
Jamie R.
Best vege burrito I've had, mainly because their whole grain tortilla is very good.
(5)
Vincent T.
Fish taco tuesdays have become a staple in my life. You can't really beat $1.50 tacos that come with a huge piece of fish and fresh flour tortilla! With that said, I probably wouldn't come here on any other day other than Tuesdays. Thus, this review is ONLY for FISH TACO TUESDAYS. lol. 4 fish tacos and unlimited salsa bar for less than $9, can you really beat that? The pros about this location include the service and cleanliness. The con of this place is finding parking. You have two choices, either street parking or park in the back the plaza. If you decide to park in the back, the first two hours are free which should be enough for a place like Rubios.
(4)
SV L.
Not Good! I ordered the fish taco Especial, $3.29 Which is the original taco topped with guacamole cheese cilanto/onion mix served on a stone-ground tortilla with lime. I also ordered the salsa Verde shrimp taco! $3.99 Sliced avocado, cheese, creamy chipotle sauce, cilantro/onion and cabbage on a flour tortilla. It took them forever to get my order out!!! The only reason I went here, was it's right next to my office and I was looking to get something fast to eat before my next meeting. What can I say. It was just bad!!! The fish on the Especial was all breading with just a little fish that tasted of old grease!!! Yuck! The flavor of rest the composition was just so so. The Salsa Verde Shrimp taco had good flavor, but it had only 3 tiny shrimp that didn't fill the taco. So it's only value was to wash away the flavor of the first really bad taco. Add $1.99 drink and your over $10.00 for a bad meal your still hungry after!!! I won't be going back!!!
(1)
Ryan M.
One of my favorite relatively fast food places close to campus. The staff is always super nice and always says hello whenever people walk in. The salsa bar, as well as the floors and tables, are generally kept clean. The shrimp burrito is my favorite thing to get and a great change from the other food options around. Definitely recommend for someone looking for a quick meal that lives nearby.
(4)
Richelle S.
This is not as much for the food... As it is for their Service... We were waited on by both Sharee & Gladys. They were just so nice & courteous... Me & my family truly appreciated their Customer Service!!!
(5)
Stephanie C.
I had a great food experience at Rubio's. The food tastes great. I ordered the chicken street tacos and balsamic and veggie salad. They both tasted great. Even better was the service of the general manager Marc. He was one the nicest people I have ever encountered in a fast casual restaurant. From being our utensils to explaining the salsa to my son, he was extremely friendly and helpful. I was so enamored by his hospitality that I had to let him know! He even addresses me by name when I asked for a container to go. Thanks for the great service Marc. Will definitely be coming back.
(4)
Annemarie M.
Taco Tuesday $1.50 fish tacos after 2:30pm. Always excellent service! Salsa bar with onions, lemons, limes, 4 different salsas. Ordered the grilled mahi mahi California bowl $8.29 = really tasty!! Good ratio of rice and lettuce. Recommend that and salmon tacos with corn salsa
(4)
Vannessa W.
One of my favorite local Rubios! I've been going to this location for at least 10-ish years. It's kept up very well, salsa bar isn't ever messy, bathrooms are reasonably clean, and they're pretty good about keeping the tables and floor clean. I love the outdoor patio out front, it's perfect for dinner time. I almost feel like the fish piece in the Original Fish Taco Plate has actually gotten bigger. It's fried till perfectly golden brown and you can hear the crunch from tables away. Music to my ears. Not only is the food consistently delicious but it reminds me of my ol' surf days and time in Baja, way to nail it folks! Good job team!
(5)
Lamb S.
I've been a huge fan of Rubio's for the past 10 years. In high school, my job was next to one, so I ate Rubio's everyday for several years. Realllllly miss those beer batter fries!!! With that said, the food is exceptional and you can't beat the price. However, this post and 5 stars is for the staff. The staff at this particular Rubio's is exceptional. Everyone has such a great attitude, and is always courteous and kind. I just went to grab a box for my leftover chips, and the cashier remembered my name. I really appreciated that touch. Great customer service is vital to the restaurant experience, and just wanted to let you guys know how much I appreciate your consistent kindness and great service! Thank you!! It does not go unnoticed. Always a pleasure to come in for some quick lunch.
(5)
Candy Z.
I love this place the Chipotle orange salad with season mahi mahi is awesome . Service is good, fast, and the price is very good. Fish taco especial great. The place is clean. I recomend this place
(5)
Alexander L.
This arguably is my most frequented Pasadena restaurant. Their food is fresh and delicious but at the same time super affordable even while getting to eat with real eating-ware. I love to get their unique chipotle salsa. Their location is convenient to get to and the staff is always friendly and brings your food to you. If you haven't tried Rubio's, do yourself a favor and go some time. You won't regret it!
(5)
Jasmid C.
I got Rubios to cater an event at my job and it was delicious! Everyone was so satisfied and pleased with the food. We ordered two mixed burrito platters and their salsa bar. Staff is very friendly and helpful at this location. Will definitely have them cater for us again.
(5)
Ernest M.
I would give the 5 stars for the deal Taco tuesdays for $1.50 It is really close to work and it starts around 2:30 for the deal to go down. This place is mediocre at best and if you want a slick deal for food, this place is not too bad. 3 stars for the actual food quality that they serve. Food chain type of stuff, nothing surprising.
(3)
J. S.
I really like this Rubio's location. You get more pretty adequate parking behind the building -- although on certain days everyone parks there because it's free. You also get street access through the front, so it's great for people strolling along the sidewalk. They have great seating indoors and outdoors, whatever your preference. Though to be fair there's not much seating outdoors. The service here is pretty awesome, too. I don't think I've had an incident yet where they've gotten my order wrong. Although I will say this: if you're going to have their food, make sure you get it "for here" (i.e. to eat at the restaurant itself, not to take home). If you get it "to go," they just don't seem to put quite the amount of effort into making it. It's like they go into "fast food" mode and just rush to throw your order together, which I guess is okay if you're in a rush and don't care if your tacos are slopped together. If you order it for the cafeteria, they'll make it look awesome and give it to you when it's perfect. So a good (possibly great) location, but not perfect. Four stars. Definitely recommended. Get the Original No. 1 Combo.
(4)
Carrie T.
Great service! This place is a few restaurants down from chipotle, which I found interesting. But there is a clear difference in taste. Rubios has seafood burritos! I love their Pacific Mahi Mahi burrito which comes with a side of fresh made tortilla chips. My bf got the steak burrito and that was excellent too. The tortilla on that one was toasted...tasted delicious. The size of the burrito may be small compare to all those other real Mexican joints, but Rubios has good seafood burritos which those places don't have. Their tilapia taco is pretty good, too. Unlimited salsa and chipotle sauce! The Atlantic salmon burrito was okay, I thought it smelled too fishy to me. I guess when you cook salmon, there's a certain smell I don't like...that's what turned me off. For me, I prefer my Salmon like sashimi or sushi, but not so much cooked or grilled salmon. Staff there is excellent. They are the nicest and friendliest I've encountered in Pasadena, so far. Located on Lake by shoppers ln. Plenty of people in suits come here for lunch.
(4)
Toni L.
Ok, yes I realize it's a little lame to be reviewing a Rubio's, but I'll do it for completeness. Food: You'll find fish tacos here as expected. I got the original and an Especial fish taco ( yelp.com/biz_photos/rubi… ) while my boo got some carnitas tacos ( yelp.com/biz_photos/rubi… ). The carnitas were pretty good, but you're obviously better off getting this stuff from one of the zillions of food trucks dotting Pasadena in the wee hours of the night. The fish tacos were delish and crispy as always. I don't know how Rubio's makes the batter taste so great. Top that off with one of their salsas free in the bar to the side and you're good to go. Atmosphere: They keep this Rubio's pretty clean. You'll find the usual pastel tiles and beach accents here and there. They also have outdoor seating on Lake, which is a nice bonus. Service: Order at the counter. They were sort of gruff with us since we came near closing time. Synopsis: The prices are a bit too high, but all in all it's a good meal.
(3)
Richard L.
When here mainly for their coupons. Is pretty clean place, order their grill steak burritos, the steak doesn't tasted like grill, it does come with some chips. Their chipolet sauce is among the best i have try in mexican fast food, smoking chilling flavor not too spicy pack a lot of flavor. Great to mix with chips and burritos, the other sauce is medicore.
(4)
Jessica S.
Ordered the chicken tortilla soup with a chicken taco to go. I get home and open up the box. I see chicken tortilla soup and a ::fish taco.. Epppiiic fail for the Rubio's Tuesday night closing crew... I'm sure the fish taco would have tasted great...if i liked fish. But, they gotta get back on track. This location gets a 3 star rating for consistently serving food fresh each time I've ordered from here in the past. To earn 4, they should triple check their orders before they hand them off to the customer and keep the salsa bar replenished down to the last few hours before closing time.
(3)
Casey M.
Some meat got into my veggie burrito . Not cool. I won't be back.
(1)
Maggie T.
Pricey for a fast food joint. The shrimp tacos are great! Better than their fried fish tacos.
(3)
Abelardo T.
Good in all areas for that kind of "wanna be Mexican" place is clean. Service is in the low bracket but not bad. Food allways fresh in this location.
(4)
Michelle T.
Delicious, fast, good service! Love the original fish tacos. Fried to flaky perfection yet tender on the inside. Salmon chimicurri tacos were also decent. A little heavy on the sauce, but A-ok overall. Good value for money and hits the spot when I have my fried fish taco craving!
(4)
Alyssa A.
The food is alright here. I agree with the majority of the 3-4 star reviews here, so I won't even bother getting into what I think about the food/service. I worked at this location for about 6 months. Everything is made to order, but the "beer battered fish" is frozen and heat up when someone orders a fish taco or fish burrito. The staff/managers are great with guests, but they sometimes, employees (like myself) were treated unfairly. They laid me off without even telling me. There is definitely a lack of professionalism there. 1 star off for that, and another star off for the "ok" food.
(3)
Jon R.
Pretty good fish tacos! Nice crispy fish, shredded lettuce, and a smooth creamy sauce. I didn't pay but I'm sure they weren't cheap. I brought my dog in and they were really cool about it. I'm sure they would've let us eat inside with him but we just got a table outside instead.
(3)
Angela L.
Very nice staff and ok food, but I wish the tables and floors felt a little more clean. A napkin dispenser at each table would be nice. Also recommend having a tomatoes/onions option for folks who don't like the cilantro in pico de gallo.
(3)
Elton W.
This Rubios is depressing inside (at night) and the lobster burrito they served me had some seriously old tasting lobster in it. I won't be returning to a Rubios again for a while after eating it.
(1)
Jaelynn D.
Food too salty. Looking at this place should remind you that there are other places that are twice as good and as worth the food around here in Pasadena.
(1)
Keila N.
This is at the Pacific Paseo on Los Robles and Colorado. It's on the second level where the theater is. It's fast and convenient. It serves great fish tacos! The fish tacos are better than some of the upscale restaurants. It uses a creamy white sauce that adds just the right flavor. My daughter orders the steak tacos without the hot sauce. It comes with bacon and avocados. They're also very good. The servers are friendly. The restaurant's always clean. It's equivalent to Baja Fresh, but much better food. It's unpretentious good food.
(5)
Hannah C.
Studying at the nearby Kaplan Center for 12 days of intensive classes, and I was ravenous when we got breaks... I'm not from around here, but I do know that fish tacos are well thought of in these parts. So I had to get one. The next day, I got another... then another... I came back here as often as my lunch buddies would allow. The service was on point, the fish tacos were fresh and not greasy, and the price was perfect. The serve yourself salsa bar was great... especially the salsa that looks like mud. You know something that looks THAT unappetizing has to taste good if they're serving it... and you know what? It's awesome. Fresh tortilla chips round out the deliciousness. This place was stellar. They even let me get the kid's meal one day which came with a churro! Hello! I love fried dough! Did I just give a chain restaurant 5 stars? Yes, yes I did.
(5)
Heather M.
The hub & I were craving some tacos, so we went to this Rubio's and enjoyed it. The hub got the steak street tacos, and I got the taco Tuesday fish tacos. The street tacos were really good, and my fish tacos were delicious. I felt that it could have been a bit cleaner (especially around the salsa bar), and the staff weren't blowing me away, but the food was great. I would go again on fish tacos Tuesday.
(3)
Leslie G.
We love the fish tacos here. They are moist and flavorful and crisp. The price was very decent and budget friendly. I would recommend this as a place for good fish tacos. And Tuesdays are fish taco day. The price is even lower.
(5)
Candice V.
the staff is great and the food is good. what more could you ask for? well, i guess if i wasn't on the clock i might grab a margarita!
(5)
Kenny H.
Amazing service and good food! What more can you ask from a fast food place? I signed up for their e-club two weeks ago and received an email coupon for a free meal. I went in tonight to redeem it and the employee was so nice about it. I was a little surprised. Then the manager offered me an extra bag for limes to take home. I will definitely be returning. There was service with a smile, the food came out quickly, and everything was pretty tasty.
(5)
Diana I.
Taco Tuesdays! After 2:30 PM, fish tacos are $1.50 each. Pretty good deal! But they did raise their prices. In the beginning it was only $1 each and then they raised it to $1.25 and now it's $1.50 each :( but it's still a pretty good deal! Make sure you add lime, onions/cilantro, and some hot sauce! Not the best fish tacos I've ever had but they're above average.
(3)
Monique M.
Arturo... You should be working at a 5 star steakhouse!! What impeccable service. I didn't know it was possible at a semi-fast food joint. He accommodated all our customized requests...brought out our food, checked on us...all with a warm genuine smile. The food was standard for Rubios, but they do have the 3 fish tacos for $7.99 special right now...whoop whoop! A great experience.
(5)
Josh B.
The especial burrito was amazing!! friendly staff, great food, fast/convenient!
(5)
Nick T.
Had some business to take care of in Pasadena and decided to stop at Rubio's and get some lunch. Ordered their chipotle ranch salad and was somewhat disappointed at the 3-4 thin slices of chicken breast which couldn't of weighed more than 2 ounces max. Furthermore, the salad was kind of on the smaller side too and when you end of spending about 10 bucks for such a salad, you kinda feel shafted. My friends ordered a couple of tacos, which came maybe with a couple of tablespoons of beans and rice and they ended up paying almost $10. I don't know, maybe it is just me, but when you have tacos from Azteca or El Sauz in Glendale and only pay about $1.50 a pop or a lunch salad at Cheesecake Factory, which is huge, for less than $10, all of a sudden, Rubio's seems like such a rip off. In this economy, people are trying to save a buck every way they can and I honestly don't want to be the sucker who pays $5 for a taco at Rubio's just so they can make their monthly super expensive, fancy shmancy Pasadena Mall lease. No thank you, I'll stick to Taco Azteca and El Sauz for tacos and I suggest you do the same.
(2)
John H.
LOVE that they serve whole grain tortillas, they always include a small bag of chips with each order, and it always tastes fresh. The salsa bar could be better, but not bad. As much as of a deal is made of there fish taco tuesday special, I find them to be just average. Burritos on the other hand are quite good. Service is friendly always. Gabby is my favorite.
(4)
Michael L.
Rubio's is big on quality. They don't make your food without you. Fish Taco Tuesdays after 2:30pm. $1.25 each. The Fish Taco's are great. Cooked to order. Add some chili peppers and salsa verde and you're good.
(5)
Michael S.
Crisp battered $1.50 tacos on Tuesdays. It's A-OK!
(3)
Stepha G.
One star, I don't recall my posting a one starred review. In this case, what I found disturbing about my recent experience at this Rubio's was how there wasn't any fish in my basic fish taco. The tiniest sliver of fish was surrounded by a thick crust. No exaggeration. Was this expression of the basic fish taco ---- a kitchen joke?
(1)
Ryan C.
This only deserves a review because the people here are so friendly! I came in here near closing time because my beloved Wahoo's was already closed. Despite them being near closing, they cooked up my food fresh and without complaint, and everyone was so darned cheerful.
(3)
Niki M.
Quick, friendly service, great food, clean restaurant.
(4)
E. U.
I have got to try this fish taco every one is raving about because if they are talking about the same taco I had, then they are missing out. Or do I need to be drunk to enjoy them? This fish taco is so bland. No amount of hot sauce can revive this taco to life. You get a thick, store-bought, yellow tortilla. Plopped in the middle is a fish stick smaller than that tortilla. Stuffed with cabbage and topped with some, let's face it, sour cream. And you've got yourself a tex-mex delicacy. I do like the friendly service and the fact that they offer Vanilla Coke, which I can't find anywhere, so + *. Also, this isn't marked correctly on the map. It's located on the other side of Colorado, next to Panda Express. Lake/Cordova is the closest cross-street.
(2)
G W.
Great smiles when you come in. Get this food when you order. Look at my pics and you tell me wtf that is!!!!! WTF!!!!!! EAT AT YOUR OWN RISK MY FRIENDS!!!!
(1)
Mick P.
I've been going to this Rubio's for a few years now. On South Lake Ave where plenty of other eatery competition also exists such as a Souplantation across the street. What normally brings me back are their Fish Taco Tuesdays. $1.39 after 2:30pm. It's a good value for an otherwise average fish taco. I've also liked their Chicken Quesadilla & Taquitos. Their guacamole is good. Their salads are my 2nd fav items after the fish tacos. I've tried them all and they are good. However, they seem to have downsized the salads over the past year or two while keeping the price the same or higher! Those items are about all I really like enough to return to order again. Today they added something new on their menu: Chicken Tortilla soup! 1st impression is it's good for $2.99. I have to compare it with El Pollo Loco's to figure out which soup is better. Another plus is their customer service! Friendly & attentive even when busy!
(3)
David W.
For the price, this is some of the best Mexican food you will find. I moved to Pasadena last spring and have been here at least once a month since my move. I've yet to have anything that was sub-par. It's not a typical mexican restaurant with the same old menu. You order up front at the counter. The menu is very diverse. The salmon burritos are awesome. The shrimp tacos are delicious. I can't remember every thing else I've had, but again, all of it seems to be great.
(5)
Eddie V.
I got the beer-battered fish burrito and it was awesome.. It comes w a side of chips and came out to under $7.. What a steal.. I'm coming back for sure.
(4)
Frances C.
I only eat here for the fish tacos, really. Those 3 stars are for the fish tacos that are average, yes, but still satisfy my Tuesday cravings (all I can really ask for). Pros/Cons for the fish tacos... Pros: - the fish tastes great - each fish taco comes w/ a small slice of lime that adds great depth to each bite - Fish Taco Tuesdays - close location to work - good, friendly service at this location Cons: - the cabbage isn't the freshest out there - each taco is $1.39 on Tuesdays, only AFTER 2:30PM (obviously avoiding the lunch crowd) - there is not Fish (Taco) Friday
(3)
Rudy K.
Fresh Ingredients, Better Than Chipotle and Wahoos. This locations is always clean and the service is friendly. Competition is all over the area with a Chipotle, Wahoos, and Panda (I know, not Mexican). Of all the choices, Rubios tends to taste the freshest and I like the salsa bar (as opposed to Chipotle where they just pour it all in themselves). The flavors are clean. The chicken is grilled fresh and they add crisp lettuce to the soft tacos. Tortilla chips are fresh and even go well with the beans. For more authentic tasting food, you can go to King Taco or even Normas but for clean fresh food without too many spices this is the place.
(4)
Willyber D.
fish tacos
(4)
Jen V.
I'm usually a Wahoos girl, but this year I have been mixing it up and ordering the grilled mahi mahi tacos from Rubios. I really like the salsa bar -particularly the black roasted pepper mild salsa! The tacos come with pinto beans and chips -which are pretty good. I've never had stale chips or cold beans here. The first time I went here I ordered the Gourmet Shrimp Tacos -corn tortillas, cotija cheese, bacon, grilled garlic herb shrimp, cilantro/onion, habanero citrus salsa, creamy chipotle picante sauce, and sliced avocado. Sounds intense, right? It was....way too many flavors competing against each other, and even though I LOVE bacon, I'd omit it on this taco.
(3)
Crisnha E.
This is probably the only time my bf and I would eat fish during the week since I dont really like cooking fish at home! We go for Taco Tuesdays and we always get 4 fish tacos, a large side of rice and a large side of chips for under $10. The staff here is very nice and even takes your food to your table for dine in. Dont forget to validate your ticket since they do validate otherwise you would have to pay.
(4)
Ginger F.
Okay, I never, ever review chain restaurant places, but I'm giving this place 5 stars. I'm not interested in the "are fish tacos gross/real Mexican food" debate. (All I know is that a Rubio's fish taco transports me back to my San Diego childhood faster than anything else.) Anyway, I'm giving this particular Rubio's a great review because the customer service is amazing. I've never gone in there (I'll confess to going on many a Taco Tuesday) and not felt like the staff was utterly pleasant and professional. Everyone is just ridiculously nice. I wish every interaction I had as a customer was like this (because sadly they're not).
(5)
Sarah G.
I just started coming to this location as we just moved to the area and I have to say I am slighly disappointed in this one. My husband and I went for our Taco Tuesday and guess what? the fish here was the worst I have even eaten at a Rubio's. The fish had hard little pieces I had to spit out. Bones? no, gross over cooked pieces. It seemed like they just kept re-dipping it into the oil to keep it hot. Big FAIL! I will try this location again and hopefully all the tacos we had are much better next time.
(1)
Andrew M.
What can really be said? It's a fast-food mexican chain restaurant, not disgusting and close to Caltech. Went with a friend from lab and the place was pretty empty, though we were there a bit after conventional dinner time. Got the standard, two fish taco deal and salsa from the salsa bar. Could certainly eat there again, but probably wouldn't seek it out by myself.
(3)
Jennie K.
Fish Tacos Rule!!! The fish taco combo has went up in price! sniff..sniff... must go on Tuesday for $1 FTs. Booo again for rising the prices.
(3)
Gopi V.
Nothing to say much here. It is a ok place, definitely will never beat Chipotle.
(3)
Kristen G.
One of my "I'm broke and need a cheap lunch" places to go.. One of the few in Pasadena, where I get a meal/drink and it costs about $5. ($5.40 for my bean and cheese combo). I feel satisfied and it lasts... AND I don't feel AS gross as if I went to McDonalds/Burger King, etc... I can also sit there and read while eating and no one bothers me... and it's never ridiculously crowded. They also tend to bring you your food... and if they see you attempt to throw your food away, they'll come over and do it for you. Not ALWAYS.. but often. The only thing that really sucks is the parking situation if you get there during the lunch rush. The parking lot behind the place is usually full and/or dangerous because of all the crazy, hungry drivers. I tend to take my lunch late -- so I usually miss the craziness.
(4)
Philip L.
fast and friendly service tuesday specials are a bonus 3 stars recommended
(3)
cat c.
Right, it's fast food. Does fast food really deserve 5 stars? No, but the consistently fabulous and friendly employees at this Rubio's deserve 10 stars. Better yet, raises all around! I go out of my way to eat there just because they make me happy.
(5)
James W.
Yawn ! Food tastes canned and not authentic, California style Mexican food. Better choices elsewhere. Pricey also.
(2)
Mary C.
For being a franchise I was really impressed by the quality of their food. I got food there a couple of weeks ago and I remember just getting my food and sitting outside in their very nice patio right in front. However...it was soo expensive for Mexican food that wasn't from an authentic restaurant. Especially since I know beans and rice do not cost that much to make. SO....I give it 1 thumbs up for freshness and 1 thumps down for price. I wouldn't go out of my way to go back...however..if I'm in the neighborhood and I happened to be hungry I might just give it another chance. who knows.....?!
(3)
Gerard I.
The best chain restaurant fish tacos around, and the price is right. It's even better when they have a special promotion goin', like 99cent fish tacos. Fish tacos RULE!
(5)
Sue P.
One of these Tuesdays after 2:30pm, I should go Rubio's and order its famous $1.25 Fish Tacos.
(3)
Dan C.
The only reason why I'm reviewing this place is the excellent customer service by the manager. Every time I go here, he is always in a positive attitude and happy to serve. He asks how your meal is and evens cleans up after you, mind you this is a fast food joint! I usually don't like Mexican food, but I come here for the fish tacos, but my limit is 3. Anything after that my gag reflexes kick in. With all the competition (Baja Fresh, Chipotle, Wahoo's) all on the same block, the importance of customer service is amplified and I appreciate the effort that manager puts in day-in and day-out. I hope he gets a pay raise or promoted, cause he deserves it.
(4)
Daniel G.
ok I typically never eat this kind of food, it has way too much fat and garbage in it, but my brother was all like "lets go here" I was all like "sure, what the hell, I have never been there before" So we went there, I had a grilled fish burrito.. it was ok... but now I feel like I am about to shit out a unicorn. someone please come over and snuggle with me. and pat my belly and rub my head :( D
(2)
Leni A.
yet another "fresh mexican" chain. i come here for the seafood burritos and, realistically, that's not too often. i remember they had a lobster n shrimp burrito, which was tasty. then again, when is cholesterol wrapped in a flour tortilla not tasty? ...yup. what about the fish tacos you say? unless they're having their 99 cents promotion going, go to TOPS instead.
(3)
Ryan O.
I stood in an empty line for about 3 minutes as the two employees at the front talked. Never was I acknowledged even though they were right in front of me at the cash register. Ordered and PAID for nachos WITH chicken. Get home (20 mins away) and it's just plain nachos - no chicken. What a horrible experience.
(1)
Deborah R.
I used to LOVE this place. I feel it has been on a steady decline in quality over the last few years. I wonder if they have different management. I went last night and my beloved fish tacos tasted off. Couldn't shake the thought that they tasted like they had dunked the fish in dishwater before putting them in my taco. They were soggy, the fish looked a little gray, and the seasoning tasted wrong. The cabbage didn't even taste fresh. This was the first time I noticed them bringing food to the table, so that's new. Wish they had kept the cool aquarium, my kids used to love that.
(2)
Regan H.
Even though I have an adventurous pallate the idea of a Fish Taco puzzled me when I first came to So. Cal. Once I tried one though there was no going back. I've tried them other places and no matter what I always end up going back to Rubio's. The only complaints I have are that they don't offer black beans and they don't have a location in Burbank yet. I have friends that swear by Wahoo's but I always walk up two doors and get some Rubio's to go when they drag me there.
(5)
John S.
Their fish tacos are pretty decent here especially for a fast food chain. If you are look for really authentic mexican food this probably isn't it, but it is cheap and consistent.
(3)
Amy A.
I was wandering around looking for a quick cheap bite to eat. I walked past Rubio's at first but came back around and the place looked clean. I ordered up the cheese enchiladas w/black beans and rice. Everything was hot and tasty. For a first try, I think it was pretty good for fast food.
(3)
Tasha H.
i dont know if this qualifies as real authentic mexican food... but its so damn good! its odd that Rubios tastes a lot better up here than it does down south, like in the SD area. maybe they changed their ingredients or something. i have a bad habit of ordering the same thing everytime i eat here, because i know i'll be satisfied! if you've never had fish tacos, your just crazy. get the Pesky Fish combo it comes with this special whitish-pink sauce thats so effing delicious! and this specific Pasadena location makes everything really fresh... ive never had a cold or soggy fish taco. Flour tortilla please (the corn tortilla starts falling apart) and load up on the red and green salsa... MIXED! the most perfect commercialized salsa right here, and its perfect everytime. check this place on tuesdays after 2pm, they have 99 cent fish tacos on sale! more bang for your buck.
(5)
Anne B.
great food and excellent service I love this Rubios wonderful staff
(5)
Kristen G.
we didn't realize when we moved to pasadena that nearly all eateries close at 9pm. haven't they ever heard of working folk?? anyway one night after baby class at huntington we were searching for a place to eat and although it looked like they were closing we, we walked into rubios. the staff couldn't have been nicer or more accommodating. i believe it was well after their closing time, but they made us up some fantastic tacos with a great attitude. i'm not sure if it was the store manager or not, but the lady at the counter couldn't have been more awesome. she wouldn't even take a tip. thanks rubios - we'll be back!
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : No Caters : Yes
If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.
Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.
Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.
Kat C.
Having grown up in Southern California, Rubio's Fish Tacos dotted the strip mall landscape of my youth. Perhaps it's due to my asian mother's asianess that I never ate much Mexican food as a child. Actually, most likely. So, having had Rubio's available to me all my life I'm a bit amazed I never ate here before this summer. Well, a friend took me to Rubio's and raved about their fish tacos. I was not sold. Needless to say, I am a believer. HOLY these tacos are good. SO GOOD. SOOOO GOOD. The street tacos are delicious too and the various burritos are quite tasty. But the selling point for me are still the fish tacos, especially on Tuesdays for $1.25. Because the food here is a bit pricey compared to other mexican (baja variety or not) restaurants. One day this past September Rubio's Fish Tacos were good enough to soothe the disappointment of failed Disneyland plans. If that's not as good as actually going to Disneyland, I don't know what is.
(5)Paul D.
I used to come here a lot, years ago when I worked up the street - except I cannot remember what I ordered from there - or why I stopped. It was either they stopped making what I would eat, or whatever I would eat made me ill. When I went there on Thursday after all these years, I still couldn't figure out why I stopped coming back. Nothing sounded good - but the Chipolte Bacon salad sounded interesting - and apparently the fastest thing to make. My salad was ready before the 2 people who had been there long before we walked in.Which was funny, because even though the cashier said "Paul" before I could walk over, a lady went over and tried to pick up my bag and the cashier stopped her. She apologized and said she didn't even hear the name, just assumed that it was her food. The salad was decent, though it could use some more chipolte sauce and a little more chicken - or the same amount of chicken but sliced thinner so you could spread it around more. I'll probably go back another day to try something else - unless it finally dawns on me why I stopped going back.
(3)Ben S.
This Rubios has the nicest employees. There are always coming by my table after I get my food and asking if everything is ok. Taco Tuesdays are a great deal. If you like to have your taco a little crispier, have them put the white sauce on the side. This is one of my favorite places to eat.
(5)Al B.
I don't understand how this place rates so highly. Food is horrible and reminiscent of frozen food you get at the grocery store.
(1)Rene G.
I'm all about customer service. this place is phenomenal. the food is good and enchiladas may vary depending on who is in the kitchen, i really dont know how it works but the cooks have their own unique style. parking could be hard but i never encounter this problems since i come here at 10 am when they open.
(5)Jamie R.
Best vege burrito I've had, mainly because their whole grain tortilla is very good.
(5)Vincent T.
Fish taco tuesdays have become a staple in my life. You can't really beat $1.50 tacos that come with a huge piece of fish and fresh flour tortilla! With that said, I probably wouldn't come here on any other day other than Tuesdays. Thus, this review is ONLY for FISH TACO TUESDAYS. lol. 4 fish tacos and unlimited salsa bar for less than $9, can you really beat that? The pros about this location include the service and cleanliness. The con of this place is finding parking. You have two choices, either street parking or park in the back the plaza. If you decide to park in the back, the first two hours are free which should be enough for a place like Rubios.
(4)SV L.
Not Good! I ordered the fish taco Especial, $3.29 Which is the original taco topped with guacamole cheese cilanto/onion mix served on a stone-ground tortilla with lime. I also ordered the salsa Verde shrimp taco! $3.99 Sliced avocado, cheese, creamy chipotle sauce, cilantro/onion and cabbage on a flour tortilla. It took them forever to get my order out!!! The only reason I went here, was it's right next to my office and I was looking to get something fast to eat before my next meeting. What can I say. It was just bad!!! The fish on the Especial was all breading with just a little fish that tasted of old grease!!! Yuck! The flavor of rest the composition was just so so. The Salsa Verde Shrimp taco had good flavor, but it had only 3 tiny shrimp that didn't fill the taco. So it's only value was to wash away the flavor of the first really bad taco. Add $1.99 drink and your over $10.00 for a bad meal your still hungry after!!! I won't be going back!!!
(1)Ryan M.
One of my favorite relatively fast food places close to campus. The staff is always super nice and always says hello whenever people walk in. The salsa bar, as well as the floors and tables, are generally kept clean. The shrimp burrito is my favorite thing to get and a great change from the other food options around. Definitely recommend for someone looking for a quick meal that lives nearby.
(4)Richelle S.
This is not as much for the food... As it is for their Service... We were waited on by both Sharee & Gladys. They were just so nice & courteous... Me & my family truly appreciated their Customer Service!!!
(5)Stephanie C.
I had a great food experience at Rubio's. The food tastes great. I ordered the chicken street tacos and balsamic and veggie salad. They both tasted great. Even better was the service of the general manager Marc. He was one the nicest people I have ever encountered in a fast casual restaurant. From being our utensils to explaining the salsa to my son, he was extremely friendly and helpful. I was so enamored by his hospitality that I had to let him know! He even addresses me by name when I asked for a container to go. Thanks for the great service Marc. Will definitely be coming back.
(4)Annemarie M.
Taco Tuesday $1.50 fish tacos after 2:30pm. Always excellent service! Salsa bar with onions, lemons, limes, 4 different salsas. Ordered the grilled mahi mahi California bowl $8.29 = really tasty!! Good ratio of rice and lettuce. Recommend that and salmon tacos with corn salsa
(4)Vannessa W.
One of my favorite local Rubios! I've been going to this location for at least 10-ish years. It's kept up very well, salsa bar isn't ever messy, bathrooms are reasonably clean, and they're pretty good about keeping the tables and floor clean. I love the outdoor patio out front, it's perfect for dinner time. I almost feel like the fish piece in the Original Fish Taco Plate has actually gotten bigger. It's fried till perfectly golden brown and you can hear the crunch from tables away. Music to my ears. Not only is the food consistently delicious but it reminds me of my ol' surf days and time in Baja, way to nail it folks! Good job team!
(5)Lamb S.
I've been a huge fan of Rubio's for the past 10 years. In high school, my job was next to one, so I ate Rubio's everyday for several years. Realllllly miss those beer batter fries!!! With that said, the food is exceptional and you can't beat the price. However, this post and 5 stars is for the staff. The staff at this particular Rubio's is exceptional. Everyone has such a great attitude, and is always courteous and kind. I just went to grab a box for my leftover chips, and the cashier remembered my name. I really appreciated that touch. Great customer service is vital to the restaurant experience, and just wanted to let you guys know how much I appreciate your consistent kindness and great service! Thank you!! It does not go unnoticed. Always a pleasure to come in for some quick lunch.
(5)Candy Z.
I love this place the Chipotle orange salad with season mahi mahi is awesome . Service is good, fast, and the price is very good. Fish taco especial great. The place is clean. I recomend this place
(5)Alexander L.
This arguably is my most frequented Pasadena restaurant. Their food is fresh and delicious but at the same time super affordable even while getting to eat with real eating-ware. I love to get their unique chipotle salsa. Their location is convenient to get to and the staff is always friendly and brings your food to you. If you haven't tried Rubio's, do yourself a favor and go some time. You won't regret it!
(5)Jasmid C.
I got Rubios to cater an event at my job and it was delicious! Everyone was so satisfied and pleased with the food. We ordered two mixed burrito platters and their salsa bar. Staff is very friendly and helpful at this location. Will definitely have them cater for us again.
(5)Ernest M.
I would give the 5 stars for the deal Taco tuesdays for $1.50 It is really close to work and it starts around 2:30 for the deal to go down. This place is mediocre at best and if you want a slick deal for food, this place is not too bad. 3 stars for the actual food quality that they serve. Food chain type of stuff, nothing surprising.
(3)J. S.
I really like this Rubio's location. You get more pretty adequate parking behind the building -- although on certain days everyone parks there because it's free. You also get street access through the front, so it's great for people strolling along the sidewalk. They have great seating indoors and outdoors, whatever your preference. Though to be fair there's not much seating outdoors. The service here is pretty awesome, too. I don't think I've had an incident yet where they've gotten my order wrong. Although I will say this: if you're going to have their food, make sure you get it "for here" (i.e. to eat at the restaurant itself, not to take home). If you get it "to go," they just don't seem to put quite the amount of effort into making it. It's like they go into "fast food" mode and just rush to throw your order together, which I guess is okay if you're in a rush and don't care if your tacos are slopped together. If you order it for the cafeteria, they'll make it look awesome and give it to you when it's perfect. So a good (possibly great) location, but not perfect. Four stars. Definitely recommended. Get the Original No. 1 Combo.
(4)Carrie T.
Great service! This place is a few restaurants down from chipotle, which I found interesting. But there is a clear difference in taste. Rubios has seafood burritos! I love their Pacific Mahi Mahi burrito which comes with a side of fresh made tortilla chips. My bf got the steak burrito and that was excellent too. The tortilla on that one was toasted...tasted delicious. The size of the burrito may be small compare to all those other real Mexican joints, but Rubios has good seafood burritos which those places don't have. Their tilapia taco is pretty good, too. Unlimited salsa and chipotle sauce! The Atlantic salmon burrito was okay, I thought it smelled too fishy to me. I guess when you cook salmon, there's a certain smell I don't like...that's what turned me off. For me, I prefer my Salmon like sashimi or sushi, but not so much cooked or grilled salmon. Staff there is excellent. They are the nicest and friendliest I've encountered in Pasadena, so far. Located on Lake by shoppers ln. Plenty of people in suits come here for lunch.
(4)Toni L.
Ok, yes I realize it's a little lame to be reviewing a Rubio's, but I'll do it for completeness. Food: You'll find fish tacos here as expected. I got the original and an Especial fish taco ( yelp.com/biz_photos/rubi… ) while my boo got some carnitas tacos ( yelp.com/biz_photos/rubi… ). The carnitas were pretty good, but you're obviously better off getting this stuff from one of the zillions of food trucks dotting Pasadena in the wee hours of the night. The fish tacos were delish and crispy as always. I don't know how Rubio's makes the batter taste so great. Top that off with one of their salsas free in the bar to the side and you're good to go. Atmosphere: They keep this Rubio's pretty clean. You'll find the usual pastel tiles and beach accents here and there. They also have outdoor seating on Lake, which is a nice bonus. Service: Order at the counter. They were sort of gruff with us since we came near closing time. Synopsis: The prices are a bit too high, but all in all it's a good meal.
(3)Richard L.
When here mainly for their coupons. Is pretty clean place, order their grill steak burritos, the steak doesn't tasted like grill, it does come with some chips. Their chipolet sauce is among the best i have try in mexican fast food, smoking chilling flavor not too spicy pack a lot of flavor. Great to mix with chips and burritos, the other sauce is medicore.
(4)Jessica S.
Ordered the chicken tortilla soup with a chicken taco to go. I get home and open up the box. I see chicken tortilla soup and a ::fish taco.. Epppiiic fail for the Rubio's Tuesday night closing crew... I'm sure the fish taco would have tasted great...if i liked fish. But, they gotta get back on track. This location gets a 3 star rating for consistently serving food fresh each time I've ordered from here in the past. To earn 4, they should triple check their orders before they hand them off to the customer and keep the salsa bar replenished down to the last few hours before closing time.
(3)Casey M.
Some meat got into my veggie burrito . Not cool. I won't be back.
(1)Maggie T.
Pricey for a fast food joint. The shrimp tacos are great! Better than their fried fish tacos.
(3)Abelardo T.
Good in all areas for that kind of "wanna be Mexican" place is clean. Service is in the low bracket but not bad. Food allways fresh in this location.
(4)Michelle T.
Delicious, fast, good service! Love the original fish tacos. Fried to flaky perfection yet tender on the inside. Salmon chimicurri tacos were also decent. A little heavy on the sauce, but A-ok overall. Good value for money and hits the spot when I have my fried fish taco craving!
(4)Alyssa A.
The food is alright here. I agree with the majority of the 3-4 star reviews here, so I won't even bother getting into what I think about the food/service. I worked at this location for about 6 months. Everything is made to order, but the "beer battered fish" is frozen and heat up when someone orders a fish taco or fish burrito. The staff/managers are great with guests, but they sometimes, employees (like myself) were treated unfairly. They laid me off without even telling me. There is definitely a lack of professionalism there. 1 star off for that, and another star off for the "ok" food.
(3)Jon R.
Pretty good fish tacos! Nice crispy fish, shredded lettuce, and a smooth creamy sauce. I didn't pay but I'm sure they weren't cheap. I brought my dog in and they were really cool about it. I'm sure they would've let us eat inside with him but we just got a table outside instead.
(3)Angela L.
Very nice staff and ok food, but I wish the tables and floors felt a little more clean. A napkin dispenser at each table would be nice. Also recommend having a tomatoes/onions option for folks who don't like the cilantro in pico de gallo.
(3)Elton W.
This Rubios is depressing inside (at night) and the lobster burrito they served me had some seriously old tasting lobster in it. I won't be returning to a Rubios again for a while after eating it.
(1)Jaelynn D.
Food too salty. Looking at this place should remind you that there are other places that are twice as good and as worth the food around here in Pasadena.
(1)Keila N.
This is at the Pacific Paseo on Los Robles and Colorado. It's on the second level where the theater is. It's fast and convenient. It serves great fish tacos! The fish tacos are better than some of the upscale restaurants. It uses a creamy white sauce that adds just the right flavor. My daughter orders the steak tacos without the hot sauce. It comes with bacon and avocados. They're also very good. The servers are friendly. The restaurant's always clean. It's equivalent to Baja Fresh, but much better food. It's unpretentious good food.
(5)Hannah C.
Studying at the nearby Kaplan Center for 12 days of intensive classes, and I was ravenous when we got breaks... I'm not from around here, but I do know that fish tacos are well thought of in these parts. So I had to get one. The next day, I got another... then another... I came back here as often as my lunch buddies would allow. The service was on point, the fish tacos were fresh and not greasy, and the price was perfect. The serve yourself salsa bar was great... especially the salsa that looks like mud. You know something that looks THAT unappetizing has to taste good if they're serving it... and you know what? It's awesome. Fresh tortilla chips round out the deliciousness. This place was stellar. They even let me get the kid's meal one day which came with a churro! Hello! I love fried dough! Did I just give a chain restaurant 5 stars? Yes, yes I did.
(5)Heather M.
The hub & I were craving some tacos, so we went to this Rubio's and enjoyed it. The hub got the steak street tacos, and I got the taco Tuesday fish tacos. The street tacos were really good, and my fish tacos were delicious. I felt that it could have been a bit cleaner (especially around the salsa bar), and the staff weren't blowing me away, but the food was great. I would go again on fish tacos Tuesday.
(3)Leslie G.
We love the fish tacos here. They are moist and flavorful and crisp. The price was very decent and budget friendly. I would recommend this as a place for good fish tacos. And Tuesdays are fish taco day. The price is even lower.
(5)Candice V.
the staff is great and the food is good. what more could you ask for? well, i guess if i wasn't on the clock i might grab a margarita!
(5)Kenny H.
Amazing service and good food! What more can you ask from a fast food place? I signed up for their e-club two weeks ago and received an email coupon for a free meal. I went in tonight to redeem it and the employee was so nice about it. I was a little surprised. Then the manager offered me an extra bag for limes to take home. I will definitely be returning. There was service with a smile, the food came out quickly, and everything was pretty tasty.
(5)Diana I.
Taco Tuesdays! After 2:30 PM, fish tacos are $1.50 each. Pretty good deal! But they did raise their prices. In the beginning it was only $1 each and then they raised it to $1.25 and now it's $1.50 each :( but it's still a pretty good deal! Make sure you add lime, onions/cilantro, and some hot sauce! Not the best fish tacos I've ever had but they're above average.
(3)Monique M.
Arturo... You should be working at a 5 star steakhouse!! What impeccable service. I didn't know it was possible at a semi-fast food joint. He accommodated all our customized requests...brought out our food, checked on us...all with a warm genuine smile. The food was standard for Rubios, but they do have the 3 fish tacos for $7.99 special right now...whoop whoop! A great experience.
(5)Josh B.
The especial burrito was amazing!! friendly staff, great food, fast/convenient!
(5)Nick T.
Had some business to take care of in Pasadena and decided to stop at Rubio's and get some lunch. Ordered their chipotle ranch salad and was somewhat disappointed at the 3-4 thin slices of chicken breast which couldn't of weighed more than 2 ounces max. Furthermore, the salad was kind of on the smaller side too and when you end of spending about 10 bucks for such a salad, you kinda feel shafted. My friends ordered a couple of tacos, which came maybe with a couple of tablespoons of beans and rice and they ended up paying almost $10. I don't know, maybe it is just me, but when you have tacos from Azteca or El Sauz in Glendale and only pay about $1.50 a pop or a lunch salad at Cheesecake Factory, which is huge, for less than $10, all of a sudden, Rubio's seems like such a rip off. In this economy, people are trying to save a buck every way they can and I honestly don't want to be the sucker who pays $5 for a taco at Rubio's just so they can make their monthly super expensive, fancy shmancy Pasadena Mall lease. No thank you, I'll stick to Taco Azteca and El Sauz for tacos and I suggest you do the same.
(2)John H.
LOVE that they serve whole grain tortillas, they always include a small bag of chips with each order, and it always tastes fresh. The salsa bar could be better, but not bad. As much as of a deal is made of there fish taco tuesday special, I find them to be just average. Burritos on the other hand are quite good. Service is friendly always. Gabby is my favorite.
(4)Michael L.
Rubio's is big on quality. They don't make your food without you. Fish Taco Tuesdays after 2:30pm. $1.25 each. The Fish Taco's are great. Cooked to order. Add some chili peppers and salsa verde and you're good.
(5)Michael S.
Crisp battered $1.50 tacos on Tuesdays. It's A-OK!
(3)Stepha G.
One star, I don't recall my posting a one starred review. In this case, what I found disturbing about my recent experience at this Rubio's was how there wasn't any fish in my basic fish taco. The tiniest sliver of fish was surrounded by a thick crust. No exaggeration. Was this expression of the basic fish taco ---- a kitchen joke?
(1)Ryan C.
This only deserves a review because the people here are so friendly! I came in here near closing time because my beloved Wahoo's was already closed. Despite them being near closing, they cooked up my food fresh and without complaint, and everyone was so darned cheerful.
(3)Niki M.
Quick, friendly service, great food, clean restaurant.
(4)E. U.
I have got to try this fish taco every one is raving about because if they are talking about the same taco I had, then they are missing out. Or do I need to be drunk to enjoy them? This fish taco is so bland. No amount of hot sauce can revive this taco to life. You get a thick, store-bought, yellow tortilla. Plopped in the middle is a fish stick smaller than that tortilla. Stuffed with cabbage and topped with some, let's face it, sour cream. And you've got yourself a tex-mex delicacy. I do like the friendly service and the fact that they offer Vanilla Coke, which I can't find anywhere, so + *. Also, this isn't marked correctly on the map. It's located on the other side of Colorado, next to Panda Express. Lake/Cordova is the closest cross-street.
(2)G W.
Great smiles when you come in. Get this food when you order. Look at my pics and you tell me wtf that is!!!!! WTF!!!!!! EAT AT YOUR OWN RISK MY FRIENDS!!!!
(1)Mick P.
I've been going to this Rubio's for a few years now. On South Lake Ave where plenty of other eatery competition also exists such as a Souplantation across the street. What normally brings me back are their Fish Taco Tuesdays. $1.39 after 2:30pm. It's a good value for an otherwise average fish taco. I've also liked their Chicken Quesadilla & Taquitos. Their guacamole is good. Their salads are my 2nd fav items after the fish tacos. I've tried them all and they are good. However, they seem to have downsized the salads over the past year or two while keeping the price the same or higher! Those items are about all I really like enough to return to order again. Today they added something new on their menu: Chicken Tortilla soup! 1st impression is it's good for $2.99. I have to compare it with El Pollo Loco's to figure out which soup is better. Another plus is their customer service! Friendly & attentive even when busy!
(3)David W.
For the price, this is some of the best Mexican food you will find. I moved to Pasadena last spring and have been here at least once a month since my move. I've yet to have anything that was sub-par. It's not a typical mexican restaurant with the same old menu. You order up front at the counter. The menu is very diverse. The salmon burritos are awesome. The shrimp tacos are delicious. I can't remember every thing else I've had, but again, all of it seems to be great.
(5)Eddie V.
I got the beer-battered fish burrito and it was awesome.. It comes w a side of chips and came out to under $7.. What a steal.. I'm coming back for sure.
(4)Frances C.
I only eat here for the fish tacos, really. Those 3 stars are for the fish tacos that are average, yes, but still satisfy my Tuesday cravings (all I can really ask for). Pros/Cons for the fish tacos... Pros: - the fish tastes great - each fish taco comes w/ a small slice of lime that adds great depth to each bite - Fish Taco Tuesdays - close location to work - good, friendly service at this location Cons: - the cabbage isn't the freshest out there - each taco is $1.39 on Tuesdays, only AFTER 2:30PM (obviously avoiding the lunch crowd) - there is not Fish (Taco) Friday
(3)Rudy K.
Fresh Ingredients, Better Than Chipotle and Wahoos. This locations is always clean and the service is friendly. Competition is all over the area with a Chipotle, Wahoos, and Panda (I know, not Mexican). Of all the choices, Rubios tends to taste the freshest and I like the salsa bar (as opposed to Chipotle where they just pour it all in themselves). The flavors are clean. The chicken is grilled fresh and they add crisp lettuce to the soft tacos. Tortilla chips are fresh and even go well with the beans. For more authentic tasting food, you can go to King Taco or even Normas but for clean fresh food without too many spices this is the place.
(4)Willyber D.
fish tacos
(4)Jen V.
I'm usually a Wahoos girl, but this year I have been mixing it up and ordering the grilled mahi mahi tacos from Rubios. I really like the salsa bar -particularly the black roasted pepper mild salsa! The tacos come with pinto beans and chips -which are pretty good. I've never had stale chips or cold beans here. The first time I went here I ordered the Gourmet Shrimp Tacos -corn tortillas, cotija cheese, bacon, grilled garlic herb shrimp, cilantro/onion, habanero citrus salsa, creamy chipotle picante sauce, and sliced avocado. Sounds intense, right? It was....way too many flavors competing against each other, and even though I LOVE bacon, I'd omit it on this taco.
(3)Crisnha E.
This is probably the only time my bf and I would eat fish during the week since I dont really like cooking fish at home! We go for Taco Tuesdays and we always get 4 fish tacos, a large side of rice and a large side of chips for under $10. The staff here is very nice and even takes your food to your table for dine in. Dont forget to validate your ticket since they do validate otherwise you would have to pay.
(4)Ginger F.
Okay, I never, ever review chain restaurant places, but I'm giving this place 5 stars. I'm not interested in the "are fish tacos gross/real Mexican food" debate. (All I know is that a Rubio's fish taco transports me back to my San Diego childhood faster than anything else.) Anyway, I'm giving this particular Rubio's a great review because the customer service is amazing. I've never gone in there (I'll confess to going on many a Taco Tuesday) and not felt like the staff was utterly pleasant and professional. Everyone is just ridiculously nice. I wish every interaction I had as a customer was like this (because sadly they're not).
(5)Sarah G.
I just started coming to this location as we just moved to the area and I have to say I am slighly disappointed in this one. My husband and I went for our Taco Tuesday and guess what? the fish here was the worst I have even eaten at a Rubio's. The fish had hard little pieces I had to spit out. Bones? no, gross over cooked pieces. It seemed like they just kept re-dipping it into the oil to keep it hot. Big FAIL! I will try this location again and hopefully all the tacos we had are much better next time.
(1)Andrew M.
What can really be said? It's a fast-food mexican chain restaurant, not disgusting and close to Caltech. Went with a friend from lab and the place was pretty empty, though we were there a bit after conventional dinner time. Got the standard, two fish taco deal and salsa from the salsa bar. Could certainly eat there again, but probably wouldn't seek it out by myself.
(3)Jennie K.
Fish Tacos Rule!!! The fish taco combo has went up in price! sniff..sniff... must go on Tuesday for $1 FTs. Booo again for rising the prices.
(3)Gopi V.
Nothing to say much here. It is a ok place, definitely will never beat Chipotle.
(3)Kristen G.
One of my "I'm broke and need a cheap lunch" places to go.. One of the few in Pasadena, where I get a meal/drink and it costs about $5. ($5.40 for my bean and cheese combo). I feel satisfied and it lasts... AND I don't feel AS gross as if I went to McDonalds/Burger King, etc... I can also sit there and read while eating and no one bothers me... and it's never ridiculously crowded. They also tend to bring you your food... and if they see you attempt to throw your food away, they'll come over and do it for you. Not ALWAYS.. but often. The only thing that really sucks is the parking situation if you get there during the lunch rush. The parking lot behind the place is usually full and/or dangerous because of all the crazy, hungry drivers. I tend to take my lunch late -- so I usually miss the craziness.
(4)Philip L.
fast and friendly service tuesday specials are a bonus 3 stars recommended
(3)cat c.
Right, it's fast food. Does fast food really deserve 5 stars? No, but the consistently fabulous and friendly employees at this Rubio's deserve 10 stars. Better yet, raises all around! I go out of my way to eat there just because they make me happy.
(5)James W.
Yawn ! Food tastes canned and not authentic, California style Mexican food. Better choices elsewhere. Pricey also.
(2)Mary C.
For being a franchise I was really impressed by the quality of their food. I got food there a couple of weeks ago and I remember just getting my food and sitting outside in their very nice patio right in front. However...it was soo expensive for Mexican food that wasn't from an authentic restaurant. Especially since I know beans and rice do not cost that much to make. SO....I give it 1 thumbs up for freshness and 1 thumps down for price. I wouldn't go out of my way to go back...however..if I'm in the neighborhood and I happened to be hungry I might just give it another chance. who knows.....?!
(3)Gerard I.
The best chain restaurant fish tacos around, and the price is right. It's even better when they have a special promotion goin', like 99cent fish tacos. Fish tacos RULE!
(5)Sue P.
One of these Tuesdays after 2:30pm, I should go Rubio's and order its famous $1.25 Fish Tacos.
(3)Dan C.
The only reason why I'm reviewing this place is the excellent customer service by the manager. Every time I go here, he is always in a positive attitude and happy to serve. He asks how your meal is and evens cleans up after you, mind you this is a fast food joint! I usually don't like Mexican food, but I come here for the fish tacos, but my limit is 3. Anything after that my gag reflexes kick in. With all the competition (Baja Fresh, Chipotle, Wahoo's) all on the same block, the importance of customer service is amplified and I appreciate the effort that manager puts in day-in and day-out. I hope he gets a pay raise or promoted, cause he deserves it.
(4)Daniel G.
ok I typically never eat this kind of food, it has way too much fat and garbage in it, but my brother was all like "lets go here" I was all like "sure, what the hell, I have never been there before" So we went there, I had a grilled fish burrito.. it was ok... but now I feel like I am about to shit out a unicorn. someone please come over and snuggle with me. and pat my belly and rub my head :( D
(2)Leni A.
yet another "fresh mexican" chain. i come here for the seafood burritos and, realistically, that's not too often. i remember they had a lobster n shrimp burrito, which was tasty. then again, when is cholesterol wrapped in a flour tortilla not tasty? ...yup. what about the fish tacos you say? unless they're having their 99 cents promotion going, go to TOPS instead.
(3)Ryan O.
I stood in an empty line for about 3 minutes as the two employees at the front talked. Never was I acknowledged even though they were right in front of me at the cash register. Ordered and PAID for nachos WITH chicken. Get home (20 mins away) and it's just plain nachos - no chicken. What a horrible experience.
(1)Deborah R.
I used to LOVE this place. I feel it has been on a steady decline in quality over the last few years. I wonder if they have different management. I went last night and my beloved fish tacos tasted off. Couldn't shake the thought that they tasted like they had dunked the fish in dishwater before putting them in my taco. They were soggy, the fish looked a little gray, and the seasoning tasted wrong. The cabbage didn't even taste fresh. This was the first time I noticed them bringing food to the table, so that's new. Wish they had kept the cool aquarium, my kids used to love that.
(2)Regan H.
Even though I have an adventurous pallate the idea of a Fish Taco puzzled me when I first came to So. Cal. Once I tried one though there was no going back. I've tried them other places and no matter what I always end up going back to Rubio's. The only complaints I have are that they don't offer black beans and they don't have a location in Burbank yet. I have friends that swear by Wahoo's but I always walk up two doors and get some Rubio's to go when they drag me there.
(5)John S.
Their fish tacos are pretty decent here especially for a fast food chain. If you are look for really authentic mexican food this probably isn't it, but it is cheap and consistent.
(3)Amy A.
I was wandering around looking for a quick cheap bite to eat. I walked past Rubio's at first but came back around and the place looked clean. I ordered up the cheese enchiladas w/black beans and rice. Everything was hot and tasty. For a first try, I think it was pretty good for fast food.
(3)Tasha H.
i dont know if this qualifies as real authentic mexican food... but its so damn good! its odd that Rubios tastes a lot better up here than it does down south, like in the SD area. maybe they changed their ingredients or something. i have a bad habit of ordering the same thing everytime i eat here, because i know i'll be satisfied! if you've never had fish tacos, your just crazy. get the Pesky Fish combo it comes with this special whitish-pink sauce thats so effing delicious! and this specific Pasadena location makes everything really fresh... ive never had a cold or soggy fish taco. Flour tortilla please (the corn tortilla starts falling apart) and load up on the red and green salsa... MIXED! the most perfect commercialized salsa right here, and its perfect everytime. check this place on tuesdays after 2pm, they have 99 cent fish tacos on sale! more bang for your buck.
(5)Anne B.
great food and excellent service I love this Rubios wonderful staff
(5)Kristen G.
we didn't realize when we moved to pasadena that nearly all eateries close at 9pm. haven't they ever heard of working folk?? anyway one night after baby class at huntington we were searching for a place to eat and although it looked like they were closing we, we walked into rubios. the staff couldn't have been nicer or more accommodating. i believe it was well after their closing time, but they made us up some fantastic tacos with a great attitude. i'm not sure if it was the store manager or not, but the lady at the counter couldn't have been more awesome. she wouldn't even take a tip. thanks rubios - we'll be back!
(5)