Best Mexican restaurant in CA

Authentic Mexican Cuisine Right at Your Doorstep

Order Online

Try our most popular items

Treat yourself to our must-try list that has everyone talking

View Full Menu

#1 One Taco Combo

Add Item

Carne Asada

Mexican-style grilled beef, pico, guac, & jalapeño

Add Item

Grilled Chicken Salad

Add Item

Featuring

Gluten-Free Options

Healthy Options

Easy Parking

Authentic Mexican Dining in CA

Dive into a symphony of flavors at Carmela's Mexican Restaurant, the beacon of authentic Mexican gastronomy in McKinleyville and Arcata, CA. With traditions deeply rooted in every dish, our two locations promise a culinary journey that celebrates the essence of Mexico.

Signature Dishes & Refreshing Drinks

Discover our signature Huarache: a grilled corn masa base lavishly topped with beans, choice of meat or veggie, nopales, pico de gallo, creamy Mexican cheese, fresh cilantro, and tangy tomatillo sauce. Don't miss our handcrafted Gorditas and zestful ceviches, paired perfectly with our celebrated margaritas and micheladas.

Premium Event Catering by Carmela's

Planning an event? Carmela's has you covered. From intimate soirées to grand feasts, our expert catering services ensure your gathering is memorable. Savor the magic of Carmela's and let us bring Mexico's vibrant soul to your celebration.

Catering Request

Order From Our Website

Order directly from our website to save money in fees, get faster service, earn free food via our rewards program, and support local business.

Order Now

What our guests are saying

Check out our most recent reviews!

Authentic Mexican food, two options for salsa hot and mild so amazing! Quesabirra tacos and flautas were so on point. Muy bien. We'll be back again for sure very happy. service was beyond exceptional!! Drinks we delicious as well! Come here for Authentic Latin food and great service!!!!!

Lynne G.

It's Mexican food, but my first time eating it in the area. Definitely really good.

Matthew I.

The mole burrito was phenomenal, one of the better mole sauces I've had. The burrito was massive and very reasonably priced.

Mystborn

Carmela's Mexican Restaurant Rewards

Join our rewards program to earn points, get free items, and stay up to date with us.

About Us

Carmela’s takes pride in serving you the best in authentic Mexican Dining. Every meal that you experience at Carmela’s Mexican Restaurant uses ingredients that are prepared daily and with the freshest ingredients possible to ensure the best in flavor. We offer traditional recipes as well as new takes on old concepts, we use fresh natural ingredients, we make what we can in house, and we do our best to purchase ingredients from as close to home as we can find.