Forget Taco Bell and Del Taco. If you’re craving some seriously delicious (and totally authentic) tacos in San Diego – this list is for you! From melt-in-your-mouth birria street tacos to spicy adobada, grab some good grub at these joints the next time you’re in California.
Tacos El Gordo
The iconic Tacos El Gordo is first up on the list and one of the prime spots to curb your spontaneous late-night taco cravings. The Downtown San Diego location is open until 2 a.m. on weekdays and 4 a.m. on weekends. Bite into mouthwatering brisket or chorizo piled high on handmade corn tortillas. Be sure to try their famous Tijuana-style tacos, particularly the adobada (marinated spicy pork), which have received rave reviews from locals and tourists alike.
Xolotacos San Diego, Chula Vista
It’s all about tender and juicy birria tacos at Xolotacos (it is their claim to fame). Dig into tender spiced and stewed beef served with a generous bowl of consome and a bone of tuétano (marrow)! Or, try the tacos dorados, handmade corn tortillas dipped in tallow and grilled on the spot! Pair your tacos with one of their refreshing agua frescas. This laid-back taco spot is seriously the best place to treat yourself to some hearty yet cheap street tacos in San Diego.
The Taco Stand
With locations in North Park, Convoy Street, La Jolla, and Downtown San Diego, The Taco Stand is a hit with the locals. The finger-licking-good, loaded Carne Asada fries are reason enough to visit. They’re big enough to share, but why? Enjoy delicious plates of classic Al Pastor tacos. You can’t go wrong with the seafood tacos, notably the Fried Baja Fish and Camaron (spicy shrimp). And to top it off, all guacamole, tortillas, and various flavor-packed salsa served are made fresh daily!
Puesto at The Headquarters
Puesto at The Headquarters is a modern Mexican restaurant with a beautiful outdoor space – perfect for dinner with a street view. The menu boasts a variety of handmade blue corn tacos, from classic Chicken Al Pastor to elevated options like filet mignon topped with melted cheese and a spicy pistachio serrano salsa! Don’t miss out on the swordfish with jicama slaw and sunflower salsa. Be sure to take advantage of their Taco Tuesday and happy hour specials.
Lucha Libre Taco Shop
Lucha Libre Taco Shop is easily recognized by its hot pink walls covered in Mexican professional wrestling-themed décor. Not in the mood for tacos? No problem. The eatery has some of the best Cali-style burritos in San Diego. Lucha Libre’s burritos are massive, and the added crunch from the crispy made-to-order French fries inside set them apart. Stick to the classic Cali-style steak, chicken, or Pork Adobada burrito. Or try the signature Poblano Cali topped with creamy corn poblano sauce.
El Cacho Fish Taco Stand
El Cacho Fish Taco Stand is your one-stop shop for Sinaloa-style mariscos (seafood) tacos in San Diego. This casual taco joint in Chula Vista has phenomenal shrimp tacos and ceviche. Seafood lovers must try the Chula Juana tostada, which consists of meaty tuna morsels topped with avocado crema and caramelized onions on a corn tortilla. And if you want to mix things up, pair your seafood tacos with a sushi roll or appetizer from the connecting Sakana Sushi Bar counter next door. Who doesn’t love a fusion moment?
Las Cuatro Milpas
A San Diego institution that has been serving old-school, no-frills tacos for decades, Las Cuatro Milpas is an essential stop on your San Diego taco tour. The cozy family-owned restaurant feels like a home away from home and serves authentic Mexican comfort food to match. Their salsas, guacamole, and corn and flour tortillas are made in-house daily. After taking one bite of their crispy rolled tacos, or frankly, anything on the menu, you’ll understand why this little hole-in-the-wall San Diego restaurant always has a line out the door.
El Comal
Lastly, El Comal is a quaint, authentic Mexican restaurant in North Park with fantastic street tacos. It’s an excellent place to grab a quick bite to eat after exploring North Park’s eclectic boutiques, local breweries like North Park Beer Company and Mike Hess Brewing, and vintage shops. The taco menu features traditional Carnitas and Carne Asada tacos, as well as more adventurous tacos like the Azteca (grilled cactus), Octopus, and Smoked Marlin.
