There is no shortage of local Mexican cuisine. Within a 10 mile radius of Thousand Oaks you could eat a burrito at a different restaurant for 30 days straight (though please for you and your family’s sake do not try this). You may not agree with my opinions below; in fact, I hope many of you disagree and provide your own input by responding to this post or contacting me!

Adobe Cantina (no website) is at 29100 Agoura Road, Agoura Hills (818.991.3474). CVG reader Stephanie says the Adobe is her favorite Mexican place in town and really loves the ribs and wonderful outdoor seating. I have been to Adobe Cantina many times over the years and my best recollection is the good margaritas and to relax outdoors there.

The Alamo Mexican Grill is at 2311 Borchard Rd., Newbury Park (805.498.3115).  Also at 5617 Kanan Road, Agoura Hills (818.889.5092). Good, traditional Mexican food. This is a comfortable, casual sit down restaurant. Reasonably priced. They have been around over 25 years. Can’t go wrong there. There is also a take out window. You can get a full blown rotisserie chicken meal for your family for around $11 here. Can’t beat it. I’m getting hungry just writing about it. (CLICK HERE FOR ALAMO DISCOUNT COUPONS ON BOGOPOD.COM!)

Baja Fresh locations inthe area include1015-G Broadbeck Drive, Newbury Park (near Home Depot) (805.376.0808), 30861 Thousand Oaks Blvd, Westlake Village(818.889.1347), 595 N. Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks (near Janss Marketplace) (805.778.0877), 888 New Los Angeles Avenue, 1-A, Moorpark (805.523.2143), 1464 Madera Road, Simi Valley (805.520.7301), 2679 Tapo Canyon Road, Simi Valley (805.581.6001), 5021 Verdugo Way #101, Camarillo (805.484.6731), 1855 Daily Drive, Camarillo (805.383.6884), 23697 Calabasas Parkway #100, Calabasas (818.591.2262), 4726-2 Telephone Road, Ventura (805.650.3535) and 2350 Vineyard Avenue #1, Oxnard (805.988.7878). Baja Fresh is the granddaddy of local Mexican take out. Most of you may recall that the very first Baja Fresh location was at the corner of Wendy and Kimber in 1990, where Country Harvest Restaurant now resides. Today there are 300 locations around the country. I’ve always loved this place and I feel that I am eating healthy when I’m there. The kids meals are great…quesadilla, rice, applesauce and a drink. There’s not too much not to like about Baja Fresh.

Bobbi's Mexican Food is at 302 N. Lantana, Camarillo (805.484.0103).  I know people that swear by Bobbi's food and others that aren't as thrilled, but they have been around since 1974 so that must tell you something.  I have not tried the BBQ'd tri tip but it sure smells good! They have large portions here I've also discovered.

Cantina Joannafina is located at 1127 Seaward, Ventura (805.652.0360).  Thanks to a CVG tip I learned that the Westlake Village Cantina Joannafina location is now closed.  I called the Ventura location and it is still open and apparently has new owners.  We have eaten at both locations and the food was o.k., a little pricey but enjoyable.

Chronic Tacos is located at 6593 Collins Drive, Suite D4 in Moorpark (across from Moorpark College) (805.529.4422). I was made aware of Chronic Tacos for the first time in March 2010 and hope to stop by sometime soon! The chain was founded in Newport Beach in 2001 and the popularity of their made-to-order Mexican food in large portions as they have grown to over 25 locations. This is currently the only Ventura County location and it opened in late summer 2009.

Chuy's Mesquite Broiler is at 650 N Moorpark Rd., Thousand Oaks (805.374.9737), 311 Carmen Drive, Camarillo (805.383.2705), 590 E. Los Angeles Avenue, Moorpark (805.523.3184), 1397 E. Los Angeles Ave, Simi Valley (805.582.4897), and 5840 E. Los Angeles Ave, Simi Valley (805.520.7424). The décor is really funky and fun to look at. Food is not particularly memorable for me but this is a fun place to go. (Agoura location is no mas...Ladyface Alehouse is now there.)

Chipotle Grill is at 935 Broadbeck Dr., Newbury Park (805.499.3561), 1263 Simi Town Center Way, Simi Valley (805.584.0514), 1145 S. Victoria Avenue, Ventura (805.650.6627) and 488 S. Mills Road, Ventura (805.654.0143). I know some people that swear by Chipotle, including my wife and kids. For those not familiar, Chipotle gives you many choices for your burritos and other Mexican cuisine so that you can customize your own food. Problem is, people like me get intimidated by that - I'd prefer they make me a great burrito...I'm afraid I'm gonna screw it up (which I usually do). In any case, the quality of the food at Chipotle is excellent as is the taste.

Cisco's Mexican Restaurant is at 1712 E Avenida De Los Arboles, Thousand Oaks (805.497.3959) and 686 Lindero Canyon Drive, Oak Park (818.879.1150). Cisco’s serves reliable traditional style Mexican fare. It has been awhile since I’ve been there but as I recall the food is pretty good. Margaritas are good there too as I recall.

Del Taco is at 591 North Ventu Park Rd., Newbury Park (805.499.4439), 848 Los Angeles Ave., Moorpark (805.552.0654), 1408 E. Los Angeles Ave., Simi Valley (805.527.1939), 2000 N. Rose Ave., Oxnard (805.988.7500) and 4393 E. Main Street, Ventura (805.642.2145). I personally don’t see much difference between Del Taco and Taco Bell but they both serve a need. Quick, cheap, fast food.

El Pollo Loco locations in the area include 2750 Camino Dos Rios, Newbury Park (805.480.9050), 591 Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks (near Janss Marketplace) (805.370.0330), 399 North Las Posas, Camarillo (805.482.4009), 5050 Kanan Road, Agoura Hills (818.706.0766), 1111 E. Los Angeles Avenue, Simi Valley (805.522.6363), 2780-A, Tapo Canyon Road, Simi Valley (805.581.4884), 3155 Saviers Road, Oxnard (805.385.9800), 200 Vineyard Blvd., Oxnard (805.382.9975) and 1722 S. Victoria, Ventura (805.654.1723). Want really inexpensive, decent fast Mexican food? Can’t beat EPL’s $1 “Loco Value Menu.” The food is sometimes hit or miss but overall I can’t think of a better value for your dollar. But you can’t compare the food here to the “higher end” Mexican fast food chains. This is my top choice for VALUE. R

El Torito Mexican Restaurant & Cantina is at 449 North Moorpark Rd., Thousand Oaks (805.497.3952), 2498 Erringer Road, Simi Valley (805.522.6882) and 1720 E. Ventura Blvd., Oxnard (805.485.4887). While I want to dislike this place because they are not as “authentic” as the Alamos and the Lupes' of the world, that doesn’t stop me from stopping by every so often and enjoying a large, varied menu and good, filling food. Can’t go wrong here, especially after a margarita or three.

Enrique's Mexican Restaurant is at 159 E Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks (805.495.1003).   Thanks to a CVG reader tip we have learned that Enrique's is now closed.

La Salsa Fresh Mexican Grill is at 382 West Hillcrest Dr., Thousand Oaks (Oaks Mall) (805.496.1327), 180 Promenade Way, Westlake Village (805.777.0090), 341 W. Esplanade Drive, Oxnard (805.981.2276), 22800 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu (310.317.9466) and 4799 Commons Way, Calabasas (818.591.7787). La Salsa has been around since 1979. To me, this place is more authentic tasting than the Baja Freshes and Sharkys of the world. My 2 year old completely cleans his plate when we eat there. I enjoy their Carnitas Guadalajara tacos when they are piping hot.

The Latigo Kid is at 28914 Roadside Drive, #16, Agoura Hills (Whizins Shopping Center).  Several CVG visitors have indicated they enjoy Latigo Kid's traditional Mexican food with large portions and mighty margaritas (I've heard the term "killer margaritas" multiple times).  Note to self:  Visit Latigo Kid!

Los Agaves Mexican Grill is at 2350 E Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks (805.777.7532) I’m pretty sure that I dined here years ago but it was so long ago that I cannot recall the meal. One CVG reader "BN" states that the menu is mainstream Mexican-American, with some higher-end specialties...and a full bar.  Any other input out there?

Letty’s is at 2454 West Hillcrest Drive #106, Newbury Park. (805.376.2320). Letty’s serves authentic Mexican food and I used to go there all the time. Rarely did I leave Letty’s unsatisfied. A choice off the beaten path in a little strip mall close to Smart n Final.

Luna's Mexican Tradition is at 2508 Las Posas Road, Suite E Camarillo (Camarillo Village Square Shopping Center) (805.987.2277). I eat here from time to time and has been ok. You order your food, grab a bowl of chips, fill up your drink and find a table.  Simple and clean place.  I personally do not find Luna's particularly memorable but I don't hesitate eating there occasionally.

Lupe's Mexican Restaurant is at 1710 East Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks (805.495.3573). Lupe’s is a sit down place that has been around forever...1947 to be exact. Lupe's has been closed for remodeling and is set to be open for business again on June 15, 2009.  CLICK HERE for more info.

Mama Ritas is at 360 Via Las Brisas, #110, Newbury Park (805.499.9888). Mama Rita's started out as mostly a take-out place in Westlake Village (awesome chile relleno) and then branched out as a beautiful full-service restaurant in the Dos Vientos section of Newbury Park.  Have not been disappointed ever at Mama Ritas. CLICK HERE for discount coupons on Bogopod.com. (As of 4/2010 we've been informed that the Westlake Village location is closed.)

Olas Mex Grill at 1860 Ventura Boulevard in Old Town Camarillo is a lunchtime favorite at my office.  Very consistently good traditional mexican food (burritos, enchiladas, tamales, etc.) served in large portions.  Very nice people here.  My mouth is watering as I type this in fact, so I must move my head away from the keyboard so I don't slobber on it.

Qdoba Mexican Grill is at 3835-82A Thousand Oaks Blvd., Westlake Village (805.497.4747). I tried this place a handful of times but it always was just passable. This is another “make your own” place like Chipotle Grill. I guess I just prefer someone else creating my burrito to myself. Qdoba was founded in 1995 in Denver. Qdoba is now owned by Jack in the Box and has 400 locations. Qdoba was previously called Z-TECA prior to 2000. From one meaningless name to another.

Rubio’s is at 173 North Moorpark Rd., Thousand Oaks (805.557.9958), 2121 N. Rose Avenue, Oxnard (805.485.8603), 2916-B Tapo Canyon Road, Simi Valley (805.522.1504), 1788 S. Victoria Ave., Ventura (805.642.2644) and 3301 E. Main Street, Ventura (Pacific View Mall) (805.658.6712). Newer location  (2/09) in Newbury Park at 2751 W. Hillcrest Drive (805.948.6475). I enjoy bringing the kids to Rubio’s because the food is inexpensive and they enjoy the large aquarium and the toys that come with the kids meals. Otherwise, while the food generally tastes o.k., you kind of get what you pay for here. My wife hates the place but I like it every so often. Guilty pleasure...eating the kids’ quesadilla leftovers.

Sharky’s is located at 1930 Newbury Rd., Newbury Park (by Kohl's) (805.376.1404), 111 S. Westlake Blvd, Westlake Village (southwest corner of T.O. Blvd/Westlake Blvd intersection) (805.370.3701), 2410 Sycamore Drive, Simi Valley (805.522.2270), 26527 Agoura Road, Calabasas (818.880.0885) and 4960 Telephone Road, Ventura (805.339.9600). Another healthy choice for Mexican take out. Sharky’s has been around since 1992 with its first store in Sherman Oaks. I put Sharky’s on a par with Baja Fresh. I definitely enjoy the food there though I do feel that something is given up in taste in order to stay organic and healthy. So at least one does not feel guilt when dining at Sharky’s!

Snapper Jack's Taco Shack is at 4850 Verdugo Way, Ste A, Camarillo (805.384.0334) and 5100 Telegraph Road, Ventura (805.642.5111). We have been to the Camarillo location, where you walk up and order and grab a table.  They offer up beer and wine along with traditional, fresh Mexican fare.  Fun atmosphere. I was too busy running around after the kids to remember how the food tasted to be honest! But vaguely remember enjoying the fish tacos between gulps of beer!

Taco Bell locations include 791 N. Wendy Drive, Newbury Park (805.499.1316), 1330 North Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks  (805.557.0248), 25 Rancho Road, Thousand Oaks (805.495.1709), 1928 E. Avenida de los Arboles (805.492.9572), 5589 Kanan Road, Agoura Hills (818.991.8268), 95 Daily Drive, Camarillo (805.389.3283), 1505 Flynn Road, Camarillo (805.383.3355).  I’ve never been a big fan. One positive is that they are open late in case you need a grease fix.

The Sea Casa is located at 1014 South Westlake Blvd., Westlake Village (805.374.1921). When I worked in Westlake Village this place was a staple for me at least one time a week. Very tasty food with a healthy bent. Excellent service. They kick butt at lunchtime. The guy who manages the place is really on it. Boy oh boy did I always enjoy the fajita burrito there. My mouth is watering. Solid value. Really small place inside but there are also tables outside. 

Taqueria Tepatitlan Authentic Mexican Cafe is located at 362 N. Ventura Ave., Ventura (805.653.0508). I haven't been there but I hear they serve draft beer in ice cold schooners! 

3 Amigos Fresh Mexican Grill (www.3amigosonline.com) has 2 locations, 139 N. Reino Road, Newbury Park (805.499.7200) and 365 E. Avenida de los Arboles, Thousand Oaks (805.493.1033). Excellent fast food Mexican. A small place with good, quick service. Really nice people work there so I enjoy stopping by every so often. 10/22/08 UPDATE: Last night the kids and I went there and I ordered the Chicken Tortilla Soup. This soup was awesome! I think it was the best CT Soup I've ever had! Served hot, large portion, homemade with nice chicken, flavorful broth, some onions and tortillas! I ordered it as a side dish and instead it became my entire meal! I'm practically slobbering on the keyboard thinking about it. The kids loved the quesadilla, rice and beans and the portions were quite large. One thing I don't like there is the shredded chicken. 

Yolanda's Mexican Cafe has 4 locations, including 86 E. Daily Drive, Camarillo (805.389.9922), 590 East Los Angeles Avenue, Simi Valley (805.306.9933), 1601 South Victoria Avenue, Oxnard (805.985.1340) and 2753 E. Main Street, Ventura (805.643.2700).  Yolanda's serves traditional Mexican food in my favorite style...LARGE portions!  But Yolanda, if you read this, why don't you open your Camarillo location at lunch during the week!? One CVG reader states they enjoy the enchiladas and margaritas here. Another reader says "The food was superb and the service was great. I just loved my chicken enchilada! The place was clean and looked brand new."

Yolies Fresh Mexican Grill is located at 138 W. Main Street, Ventura (805.652.0338). They have a buffet lunch Mon-Fre, Sunday Champagne Brunch, heated outdoor patio, etc.

So there you have it! I think I have indigestion now. Would love to hear your comments.