+1 530-547-8989
Ortegas' Restaurant in Palo Cedro, CA, is a delightful Mexican dining gem that offers an authentic and hearty culinary experience right off Deschutes Road. Known for its vibrant salsa bar and a menu filled with traditional favorites, Ortegas’ effortlessly brings the essence of Mexican flavors to Northern California with warmth and genuine hospitality.
Step inside, and you’ll immediately feel embraced by a cozy, family-owned atmosphere that has kept locals—and visitors—coming back for years. Customers like Sara Roy fondly recall growing up with Ortegas', praising not only the food's robust, well-balanced flavors but also the inviting, hometown vibe that makes every meal memorable. It’s this blend of genuine service and consistently delicious dishes that turns first-timers into regulars.
When it comes to the food, Ortegas’ shines with its satisfying variety. Craving breakfast? The Huevos Rancheros offers perfectly cooked eggs atop a warm corn tortilla, drenched in lively salsa and served alongside rice, beans, and your choice of tortillas or toast—an ideal start to any day. For something heartier, try the Chorizo con Huevos or the flavorful Machaca con Huevos, both packed with savory meats and vibrant seasonings that dance on your palate.
Lunch specials make it easy to indulge without stretching the budget. The all-day 2 Street Tacos with your choice of meat, topped with fresh onion and cilantro, come with a classic side of rice and beans, delivering a balanced and satisfying meal under $12. Another favorite is the Steak Ranchero, where tender steak simmers in a rich, spicy sauce, perfectly paired with traditional sides.
Not to be missed is the famous salsa bar—enthusiastically recommended by customers like Travis Dorsey who calls it “fantastic” and “the best” in the area—and the spicy shrimp that adds a succulent kick to your dining journey. The drink selection is thoughtfully curated as well, with Amanda Adams raving about the guava margarita, a unique and refreshing twist that’s quickly become a local favorite.
The restaurant’s family-friendly vibe continues with their carefully crafted kids’ menu, offering crowd-pleasers such as cheese and beans nachos, quesadillas, and flautas, all served with sides that satisfy young appetites for just $8.99—making Ortegas’ a perfect destination for a casual family outing.
Ortegas' Restaurant perfectly balances extraordinary Mexican cuisine with approachable, welcoming service. The comfortable setting invites you to sit back and savor every bite, while the genuine care from staff creates a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering Ortegas’ for the first time, the passion in every dish and the warmth of the people ensure you leave with a full heart and a satisfied appetite.
I absolutely LOVE this place! I’ve been coming here since I was a kid. They have the small hometown vibe. Everyone is warm and welcoming and will make your dinning experience the absolute best. The food is so tasty and filled with all the flavors you’d expect to get at a Mexican restaurant. It’s one of the best in the area.
Always the friendliest, most helpful service. Love popping in for the salsa bar and a quick bite. All the classic Mexican American dishes and some more traditional menu items. Guava margarita- didn’t even know it existed and now it’s the go to, favorite margarita.
Really great tasting consistent food, nice family owned restaurant. Comfortable setting with casual atmosophere. Nice people!
This is a great little spot in Palo Cedro. Probably one of the best restaurants you can stop by on the main road. Very friendly service, great food, fantastic salsa bar. Definitely recommend stopping by if you are hungry and driving through. Also a solid beer and drink selection.
Absolutely adore this place! Best Mexican food north of Sacramento, I'm sure. Definitely the most legit and tastiest in the whole Redding-adjacent area, and are s standout beyond the just the Mexican restaurant category. The service is always friendly, the food is tasty and hot, and gets served up fast, and they're the only spot Ive found, so far, that makes an actually spicy salsa. I've been here multiple times in the past year or 2 and they are consistent in being good. I haven't had an opportunity to try their cocktails, so can't review those, but am looking forward to it as they have some interesting sounding offerings: a guava margarita was the special last time I went. Highly recommended; this place is an absolute gem.
Stopped in for lunch, first time here. Mmmmm delicious, the food was perfect! The waitress is the bestest, Eduwiges is so sweet and helpful! We'll be back for dinner too! Do yourselves a favor and give them a visit!