San Diego's Best Birria [Updated 2024]

Having grown up here, I've had plenty of experience with this delectable Mexican dish. From the tender meat to the rich and flavorful consommé, birria holds a special place in my heart (and stomach). Over the years, I've explored numerous restaurants and food trucks in search of that perfect birria experience.

So, today, I'm excited to share with you my top picks for the best birria in San Diego. With 13 places reviewed, you can trust that I've done my research. So sit back, relax, and prepare yourself for a mouthwatering journey through San Diego's finest birria spots.

Mati's Birria + Beer

Highlights
Attentive service
Delicious salsas
Succulent birria
Great vegetarian options
Beachside location

From the moment I stepped into Mati's, I was greeted with attentive service that made me feel like a birria connoisseur. The staff was knowledgeable and eager to guide me through their menu.

Let's talk about the salsas. Oh boy, those salsas! They were like a fiesta in my mouth. Each salsa had its own unique flavor profile that perfectly complemented the succulent birria. From the tangy verde to the fiery roja, these salsas added an extra kick to every bite.

Now, let's get to the star of the show – the birria itself. My taste buds went on a journey as I savored each tender morsel of meat. The flavors were well-balanced, with hints of spices that danced on my tongue. It was clear that Mati's takes pride in their craft.

What impressed me even more was their commitment to providing great options for vegetarians. Let's face it – sometimes us herbivores get left behind when it comes to deliciousness. But not at Mati's! Their vegetarian birria option was just as satisfying and flavorful as its meaty counterpart.

And can we talk about the location? Situated by the beach, enjoying a bowl of birria while feeling the ocean breeze is an experience worth treasuring.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an unforgettable birria experience in San Diego, look no further than Mati's Birria + Beer. With their attentive service, delicious salsas, succulent birria, and great vegetarian options, they've truly earned their spot among the best in town.

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Birria El Rey

Highlights
Excellent Tacos
Birria Fries
Super Fresh and Hot
Flavorful Broth
Tasty and Good

Let me start by saying that Birria El Rey truly lives up to its name as a king in the world of birrias. From the moment I walked in, the tantalizing aroma of slow-cooked meat filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

First up on my tasting journey were their excellent tacos. Each bite was a burst of flavor, with tender and juicy meat perfectly complemented by fresh cilantro and diced onions. The tortillas were delightfully soft yet sturdy enough to hold all the goodness inside.

But it didn't stop there. Birria El Rey also serves up a unique twist with their birria fries. Crispy golden fries topped with generous portions of shredded birria meat, melted cheese, and a dollop of creamy guacamole - this dish is an absolute game-changer. The combination of textures and flavors is like a party in your mouth.

What impressed me most about Birria El Rey is their commitment to serving every dish fresh and hot. The birria broth was piping hot, rich in spices, and packed with depth of flavor that only hours of slow cooking can achieve. Each spoonful felt like a warm hug on a chilly day.

Overall, Birria El Rey exceeded my expectations with their delicious and well-crafted birrias. Whether you're craving traditional tacos or adventurous birria fries, this place has got you covered. Don't miss out on this regal experience - pay them a visit and prepare for your taste buds to be treated like royalty!

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Sabor A Birria

Highlights
Friendly atmosphere
Delicious tacos
Variety of mariscos
Great aguachile and shrimp cocktail
All-day breakfast options

Let me start by saying that the atmosphere at Sabor A Birria is nothing short of friendly and welcoming. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted with warm smiles and a lively ambiance that made me feel right at home.

Now let's talk about the star of the show: the birria tacos. Oh, my taste buds were in for a treat! The tender meat was bursting with flavor, perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection. Each bite was a delightful combination of savory goodness and a hint of spice that left me craving for more.

But don't be fooled into thinking that Sabor A Birria only excels at tacos. They also offer a variety of mariscos (seafood) dishes that are absolutely divine. The aguachile and shrimp cocktail were fresh, tangy, and oh-so-satisfying. It felt like a fiesta in my mouth!

What sets Sabor A Birria apart from the rest is their all-day breakfast options. Who says you can't have birria for breakfast? From birria omelettes to birria chilaquiles, they've got it all covered.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best birria in San Diego, look no further than Sabor A Birria. With its friendly atmosphere, delicious tacos, mouthwatering mariscos, and tempting breakfast options - this place truly deserves its spot on the list. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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Birrieria

Highlights
Quesabirria tacos
Flavorful and juicy
Huge portions of meat
Friendly staff
Affordable prices

Let me start by saying that if you're a fan of quesabirria tacos, you're in for a treat at Birrieria. These tacos are simply out of this world. The cheese-laden tortillas are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, creating a perfect bed for the flavorful and juicy birria meat.

Speaking of the meat, let me tell you, they don't skimp on portions here. The amount of meat they pile onto your plate is enough to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites. It's like they know we're all secretly food monsters just waiting to devour their delicious creations.

But it's not just about the food at Birrieria; the staff there are some of the friendliest people I've encountered in my birria adventures. They'll greet you with a warm smile and make sure you're well taken care of throughout your visit. It's nice to be treated like royalty while indulging in some mouthwatering birria.

And let's not forget about the prices! Affordable is an understatement here. You get huge portions of high-quality birria without breaking the bank. It's like they want us to keep coming back for more!

In conclusion, if you find yourself craving some top-notch birria in San Diego, Birrieria should be at the top of your list. With their heavenly quesabirria tacos, generous portions, friendly staff, and affordable prices, it's hard to find any faults with this place. So go ahead and satisfy your cravings at Birrieria – your taste buds will thank you later!

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Ed Fernandez Restaurant Birrieria

Highlights
Fast service
Delicious food
Less greasy than others
Short wait time

From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with fast and friendly service. The staff at Ed Fernandez Restaurant Birrieria knows how to keep their customers happy and their stomachs satisfied.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the birria. Oh boy, was it delicious! The flavors were rich and robust, with tender meat that practically melted in my mouth. The seasoning was on point, striking the perfect balance between savory and spicy. Each bite was a delightful explosion of taste.

One thing that sets Ed Fernandez apart from other birria establishments is that their dish is less greasy than others I've tried. It's a refreshing change to enjoy all the flavors without feeling like you've taken a dip in an oil slick.

And here's another bonus: the wait time was surprisingly short. As we all know, waiting for good food can be torturous (pun intended), but at Ed Fernandez Restaurant Birrieria, they understand that our hunger levels cannot be kept waiting for too long.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a birria experience that will leave your taste buds dancing and your belly satisfied without drowning in oil, then Ed Fernandez Restaurant Birrieria should be on your list. With its fast service, delicious food, less greasy nature, and short wait time, it's definitely one of the top contenders for the best birria in San Diego.

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El Primo Birrieria

Highlights
Amazing food
Good prices
Great quality
Good service
Fun atmosphere

Let me start by saying that El Primo Birrieria truly lives up to its name. From the moment I walked through the door, I could sense that this place was something special. The aroma of amazing food filled the air, instantly making my mouth water in anticipation.

The menu at El Primo Birrieria offers a wide variety of options, but it was their birria that stole the show. The tender and flavorful meat melted in my mouth with each bite, leaving me wanting more. It was clear that they take pride in using high-quality ingredients and perfecting their cooking techniques.

What impressed me even more was the good prices they offered. In a city where culinary excellence often comes with a hefty price tag, El Primo Birrieria provides exceptional value for money without compromising on taste or portion size.

The great quality of their birria is matched only by their excellent service. The staff were attentive and knowledgeable, providing recommendations and answering all my questions with a smile.

As if the delicious food and friendly service weren't enough, El Primo Birrieria also boasts a fun atmosphere. Whether you're dining alone or with friends, you'll feel right at home in their vibrant and inviting space.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best birria in San Diego, look no further than El Primo Birrieria. With their amazing food, good prices, great quality, good service, and fun atmosphere, this place is a must-visit for any birria enthusiast. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

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Birrieria & Taqueria La Huasteca

Highlights
Best birria taco
Unmatched horchata
Super friendly staff

Let me start by saying that Birrieria & Taqueria La Huasteca truly deserves its spot on the list of the best birria spots in San Diego. As soon as I took my first bite into their birria taco, I knew I was in for a treat. The tender and flavorful meat was simply magical. It melted in my mouth like butter on a warm tortilla. Trust me, this place knows how to make a mean birria taco!

But let's not forget about their horchata. Oh boy, it was a true delight! The balance of sweetness and creaminess was unmatched. Sipping on this heavenly elixir while enjoying my birria taco made for an unforgettable experience.

What sets Birrieria & Taqueria La Huasteca apart from the rest is not just their amazing food but also their super friendly staff. From the moment I walked in, they greeted me with big smiles and made me feel right at home. Their service was prompt and attentive throughout my visit.

If you're looking for an authentic birria experience in San Diego, look no further than Birrieria & Taqueria La Huasteca. They have truly mastered the art of making delicious birria tacos and serving them with a side of warmth and hospitality. Don't miss out on this hidden gem!

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Birria Queen

Highlights
Authentic
Best in town
Quesabirria

As soon as I walked into Birria Queen, I was greeted by the aromas of simmering spices and tender meat. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with colorful Mexican artwork adorning the walls.

I started my birria adventure with a steaming bowl of their authentic birria. The first spoonful revealed a rich and flavorful broth that had been cooked to perfection. The tender chunks of beef melted in my mouth, leaving a lingering taste that made me want more.

What sets Birria Queen apart from other birria joints in San Diego is their quesabirria. This delightful creation combines two of my favorite things: birria and cheese. The crispy tortilla filled with succulent birria meat and gooey melted cheese was a match made in heaven. Each bite was an explosion of flavors that danced on my taste buds.

As I indulged in the quesabirria, I couldn't help but appreciate the attention to detail and the dedication to creating the best birria in town. Every ingredient seemed carefully chosen to enhance the overall experience.

The service at Birria Queen was top-notch, with friendly staff members who were more than willing to answer any questions about their menu or offer recommendations.

In conclusion, if you're on a quest for the best birria in San Diego, look no further than Birria Queen. Their authentic flavors, innovative quesabirria, and impeccable service make them worthy of being crowned as one of the best birrierias in town.

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664 TJ BIRRIERIA

Highlights
Not greasy birria
Excellent service
Birria quesadilla
Clean and attentive
Challenging parking

Upon entering the establishment, I was immediately greeted by the aroma of mouthwatering birria. The first thing that caught my attention was how this place managed to serve birria that wasn't overly greasy. It's like they found the perfect balance between flavor and indulgence.

The service at 664 TJ BIRRIERIA was truly top-notch. The staff was attentive and made sure that all my needs were met. They even went the extra mile to recommend their signature dish: the birria quesadilla. Let me tell you, folks, it was a game-changer! The tortilla was perfectly toasted, and the melted cheese blended harmoniously with the tender birria meat. Each bite was a symphony for my taste buds.

One thing I appreciated about this place was its cleanliness and attention to detail. The tables were immaculately set, and the ambiance had a welcoming feel to it. It's clear that the owners take pride in creating an enjoyable dining experience.

Now, I must warn you about one challenge: parking! Finding a spot near 664 TJ BIRRIERIA can be as challenging as solving a Rubik's Cube blindfolded. So be prepared for some creative maneuvering or consider taking public transportation.

In conclusion, if you're on a quest for exceptional birria in San Diego, look no further than 664 TJ BIRRIERIA. With their non-greasy birria, excellent service, and mouthwatering birria quesadilla, this place will surely satisfy your cravings in style. Just don't forget your parking skills at home!

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664 TJ Birrieria

Highlights
Best spot for birria
Authentic street-style tacos
Modern twist with hip vibes
Great table service

Step into the world of birria bliss at 664 TJ Birrieria, where you'll find the best spot for birria in San Diego. This hidden gem offers an authentic taste of street-style tacos with a modern twist and hip vibes.

As soon as I walked through the door, I was greeted by the intoxicating aroma of slow-cooked meat and spices wafting through the air. The ambiance was lively, yet cozy, with vibrant murals adorning the walls and upbeat music playing in the background.

The menu boasted an impressive selection of birria options, from traditional beef to adventurous choices like lamb and goat. Being a true birria aficionado, I opted for their signature beef birria tacos.

Each bite was a symphony of flavors dancing on my taste buds. The tender beef melted in my mouth, while the rich broth soaked into every crevice of the warm corn tortilla. The meat was perfectly seasoned with just the right amount of heat and a hint of smokiness that left me craving more.

What sets 664 TJ Birrieria apart is not only their exceptional food but also their great table service. The staff was knowledgeable and passionate about their craft, providing recommendations based on my preferences. They made sure I had everything I needed without being intrusive—a rare feat these days.

In conclusion, if you're searching for an unforgettable birria experience in San Diego, look no further than 664 TJ Birrieria. With its perfect blend of authenticity and innovation, this place will leave you licking your fingers and wondering why you hadn't discovered it sooner.

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Super Cocina

Highlights
Authentic Mexican
Amazing pork flavor
Friendly service

Let me start by saying that Super Cocina is a true gem when it comes to authentic Mexican cuisine. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm smiles and friendly service, setting the tone for an enjoyable dining experience.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show - the birria. Oh boy, did Super Cocina deliver! The amazing pork flavor in their birria blew my taste buds away. Every bite was tender and succulent, bursting with rich spices that transported me straight to the streets of Mexico.

What sets Super Cocina apart from other birria joints is their commitment to authenticity. They stay true to traditional methods of cooking and seasoning, ensuring that every bowl of birria is packed with bold flavors.

The presentation of the dish itself was a work of art. The vibrant red broth, sprinkled with fresh cilantro and onions, looked almost too good to eat. But trust me, you won't be able to resist diving in once you catch a whiff of that heavenly aroma.

In terms of ambiance, Super Cocina has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The walls are adorned with colorful artwork depicting scenes from Mexico, adding a touch of cultural charm to your dining experience.

To sum it up, if you're on the hunt for San Diego's best birria, look no further than Super Cocina. Their commitment to authentic Mexican flavors, combined with their amazing pork-infused broth and friendly service will leave you craving more. So grab your appetite and head over to this hidden gem – your taste buds will thank you!

TJ Birrieria 664

Highlights
Best birrieria tacos
Super affordable
Friendly staff
Hot and quick food
Good atmosphere

TJ Birrieria 664 is truly a hidden gem when it comes to finding the best birria in San Diego. As soon as I walked into this unassuming establishment, I was greeted by the tantalizing aroma of slow-cooked meat and warm tortillas. The friendly staff welcomed me with open arms, making me feel like part of their birria-loving family.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show – the birria tacos. Oh boy, these were absolutely divine. Each bite was a symphony of flavors exploding in my mouth. The tender and juicy meat paired perfectly with the rich and savory broth that had been simmered to perfection. And don't even get me started on those handmade tortillas - they were pillows of delight, providing the perfect vessel for this culinary masterpiece.

One thing that sets TJ Birrieria 664 apart from other places is its affordability. You can enjoy a plate full of these delectable tacos without breaking the bank. It's like they're saying, "Hey, we know you love great food, so why not have more for less?"

The atmosphere at TJ Birrieria 664 is also worth mentioning. It's cozy and inviting, with lively music playing in the background. You can truly feel the passion and love that goes into every dish they serve.

And here's a tip: if you like your birria spicy, just ask! They'll gladly turn up the heat for you.

In conclusion, if you're on a quest for the best birria in San Diego (which I assume you are since you're reading this article), TJ Birrieria 664 should be at the top of your list. Prepare yourself for an explosion of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy!

Las Cuatro Milpas

Highlights
Delicious, cheap
Local food
Short line, fast service
Authentic Mexican food
Handmade tortillas

Let me start by saying that this place is a hidden gem in the bustling streets of San Diego. As soon as I walked in, I was overwhelmed by the aromas of authentic Mexican cuisine wafting through the air. It was like a symphony of spices and flavors dancing on my taste buds.

The first thing that caught my attention was the incredibly short line. Unlike some other popular birria spots in town, Las Cuatro Milpas had a fast and efficient service that made my impatient stomach very happy. I didn't have to wait long before being greeted with a warm smile and prompt service.

Now let's talk about the star of the show – their birria. Oh my goodness, it was absolutely delicious. The tender meat melted in my mouth, bursting with rich flavors that only come from slow-cooked perfection. Each bite was an explosion of savory goodness, leaving me wanting more with every spoonful.

One thing that sets Las Cuatro Milpas apart from other birria places is their commitment to handmade tortillas. These little pockets of joy added an extra layer of authenticity to the dish. The tortillas were soft and fluffy, providing the perfect vehicle for savoring every morsel of birria.

And here's the best part – all this deliciousness comes at an incredibly affordable price. Las Cuatro Milpas proves that you don't have to break the bank to indulge in high-quality birria.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a budget-friendly yet top-notch birria experience in San Diego, look no further than Las Cuatro Milpas. Their mouthwatering birria, fast service, and homemade tortillas make them a standout choice among the sea of options in this city. Trust me on this one – your taste buds will thank you!