Mexican restaurants

Los Portales Taqueria 3

4.5 352 reviews 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM 3536 Carolina Beach Rd, Wilmington, NC 28412, United States

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Los Portales Taqueria 3 is a gem located at 3536 Carolina Beach Rd, Wilmington, NC, where the vibrant flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine come to life. This taqueria prides itself on its diverse menu, featuring specialties like the Botana De Camarone A La Diabla, which enchants diners with its spicy shrimp in a robust diabla sauce, and the memorable Ceviche, a delightful mix of tilapia and shrimp served with crisp chips. Reviewers rave about the myriad of tacos available, with standout options including grilled meat and the traditional fish taco. The flavor profiles are exquisite, as noted by customers who praised the tender steak and the expertly crafted burrito pepe. Many appreciate the salsa bar, which allows patrons to customize their dishes to their liking, showcasing up to five salsas that perfectly complement every bite. Service at Los Portales is frequently highlighted as welcoming and attentive, making your dining experience all the more enjoyable. Whether you’re savoring a huarache or indulging in tacos, the fresh, light dishes resonate deeply with guests, drawing many back for repeat visits. If you crave authentic Mexican food in a warm atmosphere, Los Portales Taqueria 3 is a must-visit destination.

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Amenities & More

Service options

Outdoor seating
Curbside pickup
Delivery
Onsite services
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights

Fast service
Sports

Popular for

Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Dining options

Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Counter service
Dessert
Seating

Amenities

Bar onsite
Restroom

Atmosphere

Casual
Cozy
Quiet
Trendy

Crowd

Groups
Tourists

Note: Amenity details are aggregated from verified visits, the venue's website and Google. They may change without notice. We recommend confirming key details (pet policy, accessibility, reservations) directly with Los Portales Taqueria 3 before visiting.

Reviews for Los Portales Taqueria 3

4.5

352 reviews

100%

17%

Review highlights

Based on 352 reviews

Los Portales Taqueria 3 is widely recognized for its authentic Mexican cuisine, consistently praised for flavorful and tender meats across a variety of traditional dishes such as tacos, huaraches, and birria. The restaurant’s salsa bar stands out as a popular feature, allowing guests to customize their meals with an array of fresh and diverse salsas. Customers appreciate the fresh, light quality of the food alongside attentive and friendly service. While some note that portion sizes can be smaller compared to other regions, the quality and taste remain highly satisfying. The lively atmosphere paired with well-crafted margaritas and a versatile menu makes it a favored destination for patrons seeking genuine Mexican flavors in Wilmington.

K’Sabor

May 20, 2025

Great food, great service. I love how they have a salsa bar and you can just load up your tacos how you like them. They have about 5 different salsas and they are all very good! Tacos were a little smaller than what im used to back home in Chicago but flavor did not disappoint. I also had an Asada “sope” very good i have no complaints about this place. percent recommend for some authentic Mexican food.

Gary Moore

May 06, 2025

Our food was awesome. The burrito pepe had great flavor, steak was really tender and tasty. The quezabirria also was very good probably the best I’ve ever had. Great service, very nice servers. Definitely will be back again.

Frasier Linde

May 05, 2025

I got a shredded beef huarache (minus the dairy) and a taco de lengua. The huarache alone was plenty of food - I just wanted to try two dishes because I had the suspicion it was going to be really good - and it was. Both dishes absolutely delicious and perfectly cooked moist tender meat. I will be back here next chance I get!

Nathan Warner

Apr 08, 2025

Amazing food and margaritas. They also have a bar to make your own salsa combinations and toppings. Love this place. Always come when I’m in town.

Chris Diggs

Mar 30, 2025

Who doesn't love tacos...... The food is fresh and light. AMAZING! If you love tacos like I do, then stop in and have a few. Tell them that Chris sent you and get a 0% discount.

Magaly Enriquez

Mar 30, 2025

Overall great experience!!! Great food. So much flavor. Friendly and helpful staff. Highly recommend the Quesabirria!!! We will be back!

Cynthia Grissom-Young

Mar 08, 2025

Best Mexican food in a long time...every thing was fresh!!

Zachary Jewell

Feb 22, 2025

Great lil spot. In the 5 weeks I've been in Wilmington, this is so far the closest thing to an authentic taco I've come across. Really nice salsa/fixins station to doll up your meal. Recommended