50 Best Taco Restaurants near La Jolla

“Muchísimas Gracias a Raymundo y su colega!

In the middle of a long trip to California’s coast, all the way from our home in Colorado, our group found ourselves in Raymundo’s colorful and welcoming restaurant. The food left our bellies and our hearts full. The tortas were “gas” the salsa was “hella good” and the drinks refreshed us after a morning in the sun. The food was made well, with care and love you could taste in every bite. Raymundo himself was even kind enough to take a photo with us all. In a world pushing us towards faceless fast food mega chains, local businesses like this one keep our world as vibrant as the walls in this lovely place.“

“First time at Sammy’s in Imperial Beach for breakfast the portions were big and the desserts delicious. We definitely will be returning. Sammy’s is one of my favorite restaurants!“

“I had 3 tacos and they were all very good. Not sure why 2 were hard shelled & the 3rd was soft shelled. Beef & chicken were hard & carnitas was made with the soft tortillas. All good, but next time I'll ask for soft tortillas..The person working the counter was super nice.“

“This is a must visit when in San Diego! The best food! Everyone is kind that works here and even with waiting once an hour and a half in line I was not disappointed. Highly recommend Oscar's of Emerald in SD🥰“

“We tried Mike’s over the weekend & it was absolutely delicious! Definitely would recommend it if you like birria!“

“As San Diego native and a long time resident of Pacific Beach, I highly recommend La Playa Taco Shop. I always get their California Burrito (add sour cream). It's the best of the best when it comes to burritos. Their ingredients are top notch. You won't regret going here!“

“Spent several enjoyable hours at New English Brewery this afternoon. Actually, came here because of wanting to try out “The Craft Taco Truck.” They didn’t disappoint! The guys were friendly, the food was great! Visually appealing and delicious. Highly recommend you seek them out and enjoy an afternoon with them! We’ll definitely be back.“

“Comida riquísima!!! Authentically delicious! 🔥🇲🇽“

“Best tacos very tasty. Great customer service“

“I was visiting San Diego from Vancouver for the day and stumbled upon Birrieria Enriquez — wow, this place deserves way more love! The Queso birria tacos were incredible: tender and juicy inside, with consommé that was pure flavor heaven. And their green salsa? I couldn’t get over it. It’s one of those hole-in-the-wall spots that completely outshines the big-name restaurants. The staff were kind, the food came out fast, and everything tasted homemade. If you’re in North Park, don’t skip this place. I’d come back to San Diego just to eat here again!“

“Excelente menú, servicio amable, súper sabores. La limonada de pepino, etc etc Lo recomiendo“

“Absolutely delicious. All the talk about their California Burrito is true.

Wife and I get a Pastor and a California Burrito and eat half of each. Try their hot sauces, red and green both.

Place is small but runs quickly and smoothly.

Parking is a bit tough but it's not their fault, the lot is barely 12 spaces. Don't let that stop you, just go a little further to the larger lot and walk about 30 seconds for your burrito. It's worth it.“

“Omg the food is so good. I got the taco platter with tacos made of seitan and jack fruit. I’m not vegan. Everything was SO delicious. And even though two of the tacos had seitan, it was prepared differently and tasted different from each other. Even the black beans were so flavorful. Definitely a new favorite, for meat eaters and vegans/vegetarians alike!“

“Street tacos with the vibe of California.“

“Superb Mexican food. Fast and easy. We loved it ! 🤙🏼“

“wonderful food, we went yesterday evening, a friend of mine suggested to go, I did it and it was wonderful, thanks to the kindness of the people who work here, Amazing Tacos!! we bring you in our heart coming back in Italy!! Linda“

“we flew down to San Diego from Washington State to visit some friends this place was on our list of places to visit, I'm so glad we did. if you're a wrestling fan and a food fan this place is fantastic would highly recommend the only thing I wish is I would have got two chicken black bean Chipotle burritos“

“The last time I tried to eat here, there was no line. I found out it was after close. The food is always pretty good. I used to always run into friends from early adulthood, whose parents' house was in East county, here, for some reason. My guess is that it a comfortable busy hub away from downtown and closer to more-local casual or fancier places.“

“I had the BEST experience ever here. I’m such a picky eater, but this restaurant allows you to pick whatever ingredients you want and put it together in a bowl for you. They made it happen for food that doesn’t really go together without a problem. The customer service goes above and beyond anything I ever experienced. The portion size is huge and for a good price. I have zero complaints about this place. If I lived in town, I would visit more often. I highly recommend you go. You will be pleased and well fed whether you are picky or not.“

“5 friggin stars, most definitely. It's kind of expensive, so be ready to shell out some dollars. But the portions are huge. I got a breakfast burrito yesterday, with sausage. I ate half and saved the other half for later, which I don't normally do as my appetite can be pretty big. That sucker was huge. I didn't get any salsa with it; I usually do but, meh, skipped it...no big deal. Next time. I'm a green salsa kind of guy 😁

The other thing is that I used to go to other burrito places that were trolley accessible but more in downtown. One specifically isn't open very late, while Azteca more or less has normal hours. So, as they say, 85-90% of success is showing up. This is another big reason why Azteca gets my vote. They'll be seeing a lot more of me when I'm in downtown.“

“This place was a pleasant surprise! My boyfriend and I ordered the combo meal with 3 tacos, fries and a drink. The tacos were so flavorful and delicious. He got 1 steak, 1 chicken, and 1 shrimp and was very satisfied. We even contemplated going again that night but we missed their closing time by 30 minutes. The only not so good thing were the fries but overall 10/10 highly recommend.“

“We tried Mike’s over the weekend & it was absolutely delicious! Definitely would recommend it if you like birria!“

“One of the best cevices (if not the best cevice) I have ever had! Friendly staff and very affordable prices.

Keep in mind it's a food truck with a tent tjat houses tables and bleachers, so there are no public restrooms available.“

“This spot has great cabeza and adobada tacos (as well as just about any other Mexican street food you could imagine) at reasonable prices! High-quality and well-prepared meats with flavorful tortillas, very fresh cilantro and onions, and several great salsas to choose from - everything you could ask for in a good taco.

The service was very friendly and quick as well!“

“Amazing experience delivered by Orlando and his kitchen staff. Was so nice to hear Orlando talk about the talent and humble attitude of his wife , Flor, how much he loves his business and his team“

“This place is fire. The al pastor burrito I had was sweet, juicy, and packed with flavor — exactly how it should be. The guacamole hits perfectly, super fresh and creamy. You can tell they actually care about how they prep and marinate their meat; it tastes traditional, not like the usual fast-casual stuff.

The shop itself is spotless, the prices are fair, and the people working there are genuinely nice. It feels like one of those real, local Mexican spots that just get everything right — good food, good energy, no shortcuts.

Definitely my new go-to spot by Kaiser SDMC. Highly recommend the pastor burrito with guac.“

“This place is legit! The tacos here as super delicious and you can definitely tell they use high quality ingredients in everything. Especially in the meats! I work right around the corner from this place and am pumped they are here. If you want top notch tacos then this is your place!“

“Some of the best tacos I’ve had in a long time. Every single bite tasted high quality and fresh. We each had three tacos and walked away perfectly but not uncomfortably full. Would recommend for anyone in San Diego.“

“I want to go there again. The atmosphere was wonderful! It gave me the feel like I was in Baja Mexico. I loved the Mexican music! The food tasted like I was eating not American food but food made in Mexico. That makes me happy. It is a small place but it was worth it to me to sit on a stool and enjoy seeing them cook and eat my yummy beef tacos. The spices the limes the salsa was perfect. It was inside a little mall. I was so glad to have found “The Taco Stand.”“

“Wow! The food is delicious. Every time I stop by I try something different. Always pleased, ?%. I love the food. Beef sopes and the Carne Asada Torta, Yummy! I just had Ceviche today, loved it!!!! Prices are low, you can have a good meal, full stomach for less than 15 bucks. Gotta stop by and try for yourself!.“

“We were visiting my hometown of San Diego and this location was close to where we were staying. We came in with a 5 person order. When we got back , I found they missed my order for rolled tacos with guacamole. I went back and the cashier apologised and said he didn’t hear me say that as it wasn’t on the receipt. I ordered them and he hooked me up with an extra rolled taco and an order of hot carrots. That’s great customer service. Great food as always. We’ll be back !!“

“We ordered take out from there and it was really good“

“My children and I all ordered the same thing 'carne asada torta' with a side of French fries. I didn't like the salsa very much but that was just personal preferences. The Tamarindo drink tasted watered down and was lacking flavor.“

“We ordered the chicken meal. Absolutely delicious! Customer service is awesome too. We'll definitely order again!“

“Review long overdue. Amazing customer Service the birria Ramen and street tacos is to die for. Best in all of California Santa Barbara, San Fransisco, LA me and my wife do OTR for FedEx and we’ve been all over California. Covered all the states, This Spot takes the #1 spot in our Hearts for the best street tacos and Birria Ramen. Highly recommended. Super affordable. Best $56 I spent at a food truck 2.50 for mini tacos and they are not mini. Regular tacos 4 dollars and there huge. I could only eat 2 mini tacos before I jumped into the birria Ramen and they don’t skip out on the meat either it’s full on both mini tacos and Birria ramen. Highly recommended. Don’t miss out or sleep on this food truck, A1 whoever is the cook keep cooking because your food is by far the best food truck spot we ever tried puts all other food truck in the states to shame. I had to stop eating just to type this out, because their food is by far the best we’ve ever had. Plenty of parking for my Semi truckers, Cargo Vans, RVs ect. Free parking. Come try their food don’t miss out. Find out for yourself saving this spot on my google maps as the #1 spot in San Diego for the best food truck in all of California we will be back next time we are in California. Thank you for your service! ❤️“

“The first bite reminded me of the tacos. My mom makes it home so I will definitely be coming back to this place. Got the Pastor and asado and they asked if I wanted beans with it which was not something I typically get offered, but I did try it and it was a tasty addition. Also the selections of pickled onions and salsa was awesome. Really chill spot near barrio Logan and the people were friendly.“

“Definitely a street taco place. Famous in TJ, they did a good job bringing adobada and pastor into San Diego area that is authentic. Worth going to and isnt overpriced for street tacos that are well made.

I normally rate:
1 star dont go
2 star average and would only go if really need or por service or very overpriced.
3 star above average. good rating for me. id go again.
4 star is great. lots of perks and bonuses
5 star is absolutely recommend and must go“

“The best fish tacos in town. The owner John and his staff are awesome. Great beer selection.“

“I have been here three times now and I plan to come more often for sure. The food is great, prices are great, I like the music, and there’s not too much more to ask for from an awesome local food truck. There are a bunch of salsas, onions, parsley, cucumbers, and more that you can help yourself to and it’s close to home with that authentic Mexican flavor. I ordered 5 tacos and debated getting more haha Great spot, check them out!“

“If you are looking for the local fish haul experience, it does not get any better than this. I'm from Minnesota and have never been on the coast. My BF and I both got fish plates. I got the swordfish to try for the first time and it was amazing! I highly recommend this place. (The seaweed salad is delicious too!)“

“Entre a probar los tacos de adobada, el güero que me atendio muy amable se tomó el tiempo de explicar todo el menu , termine comiendo un plato con arroz y frijol y tres tacos , todo delicioso!!!!!“

“Very good. Always get the carne asada burrito and chips with verde salsa. Good beer and fresh drinks. Still have the spiced carrots and onions on the side and family plates en todo. Go here for trips, outings, events, and some/all occasions since 1981. Adios, RJ“

“If you’re looking for tacos that make your soul sing and salsa that slaps harder than your abuela’s chancla, this is the place.

From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted like family. The people here are genuinely kind and I can tell that they truly care!

Now, the food? Unreal. The tacos are next-level—perfectly seasoned, juicy fillings wrapped in fresh, warm tortillas that taste homemade (because they probably are). Each bite feels like a love letter to flavor. The burritos? Absolute perfection. They’re the just-right size—hearty, but not heavy—and packed with flavor in every bite. No filler, just fire. And let’s talk about the salsa. Whether you like it smoky, spicy, or zesty, their salsa game is elite. Honestly, it deserves its own cult following.

This isn’t just a taco shop—it’s a sanctuary for your taste buds, and a reminder that good food + good people = magic. Do yourself a favor: come hungry, and leave glowing.“

“I read the reviews for this place and I was curious to try it, being Mexican, I’ve never been too impressed by tacos in San Diego, there are good tacos but there’s always something better down south.

I am not someone that picks a place for the atmosphere, I go places for their food, if the atmosphere is good I might stay longer but if the food’s good I’ll come back.

Which is the case with this place, the food is so good that I would travel back from mexico just to eat their ribeye tacos.

I’ve read about people complaining about the atmosphere here, there are too used to fast food joints, this is how a real taqueria feels like, it’s rustic, not sterile, there’s ash from the charcoal flying and landing in the furniture out back, loud music, informal service. If you can’t deal with that, go get yourself some fast food instead, this might not be for everyone. But the food…

The food is worth it, not sterile uberclean plastic setting we tend to find this side of the wall, this feels authentic, and tastes like the best in Mexico. The quality of the raw materials ids the best I have seen, even in México. Could the setting be better? Who cares, the tacos are fantastic that’s all that counts.

Bravo to the owners, we wish you great success, and many years in business so that we may comeback many times.“

“Burrito was huge, refried beans were great, and the salsa is so good! Food deserves a better location!“

“This is a great stop to make if you are looking for some awesome fish tacos. It is off the beaten path of downtown SD, but worth the trip. Very small seating area and you may have to wait, but worth it! Nice staff and service.“

“This is my go-to place when I want a hearty, comforting meal. Their homemade lasagna is absolutely delicious — layers of rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and perfectly cooked pasta. The staff is always friendly and makes you feel like a regular. I’ve recommended this place to so many friends, and they’ve all loved it.“

“The Breakfast Burritos are my favorite. Make sure to ask for the bacon in it extra crispy. The chorizo burrito is good but can be greasy, I made the mistake of opening up my burrito and had to rewrap it in a new tortilla because it was so soaked in grease. It tasted pretty good though. I wish they had more options for hot sauces or a salsa bar. Red and green are your only options here. Overall, they aren't the best but no way are they the worst place to eat it at. I go here regularly and I would rate them a little above average. Their prices aren't too bad compared to some places that have raised their prices 50% or more in the last few years charging $18+ for a carne asada burrito so I'm glad for that. Overall, I would recommend going here if you want cheap prices and good decent food.“

“great tacos. I got the all 3 beef, chicken and pork and they were great! salso was great. can't wait to find them again!“

“They didn’t have any vegetarian breakfast burritos on the menu, but were very accommodating and substituted peppers and onions in the hashbrown burrito for the meat. It was gigantic and tasty! The salsas were spicy and flavorful. There’s plenty of seating to eat in. Buffy the Vampire Slayer was playing on their TVs, sooo random but loved the vibe. :p“