There is a saying that goes, “Don’t judge a book by its cover. And that can be said for both the Northern California town of Eureka and its well-known restaurant, Esmeralda’s 2.0. Both may seem modest from the outside, but once you get there, what awaits you is simply amazing!
The menu here is a tribute to the city of Oaxaca, the culinary capital of Mexico. The owners use only the freshest ingredients in everything they make here, all of which are authentic and downright delicious.

Served on handmade gluten-free tortillas, these fantastic treats can be made with chile verde chicken, adobada (pork marinated in “red” chili sauce), grilled vegetables or carnitas. According to the owners, “We promise that every taco you order is worth 100 cents.”

“Birria” refers to a traditional Mexican cooking style, encompassing cooked beef that is then folded into a tortilla and tossed with melted cheese. Oh man!

Imagine sinking your teeth into it, accompanied by a delicious margarita or a Mexican beer.

The filling is combined with savory onions and colorful peppers, and served with corn or flour tortillas, rice and beans.

People from all over the Eureka area and Humboldt County come again and again to Esmeralda’s 2.0 where the food is outstanding and they are treated like family. The restaurant is not only a mainstay, it is one of the best Mexican restaurants in Northern California.
Have you dined at Esmeralda’s 2.0? If so, we’d love to see your photos and hear about your experience there.
If you’re looking for other great restaurants in Eureka, be sure to check out Shamus T Bones Steak and Seafood.
Address: Esmeralda’s 2.0 Eureka’s Best Mexican Restaurant, 328 Grotto St, Eureka, CA 95501, USA