The Absolute Best Tacos in Escondido [Updated 2024]

The Absolute Best Tacos in Escondido  [Updated 2024]

I've spent countless hours exploring the taco scene, devouring one delicious creation after another. From taquerias tucked away in hidden corners to vibrant food trucks lining the streets, Escondido is a haven for taco lovers like myself.

In my quest to find the crème de la crème of tacos, I've reviewed a whopping 13 establishments. And let me tell you, it was no easy feat narrowing down the contenders. But fear not, dear reader! I am here to share with you my top recommendations for the best tacos in Escondido.

So grab your appetite and join me on this lighthearted journey through the taco paradise of Escondido!


That Mexican Place

That Mexican Place
🗺️ 200 W El Norte Pkwy, Escondido, CA 92026
☎️ 760-743-3783
🌐 Website
Sunday: 8 AM–10 PM
Monday: 8 AM–10 PM
Tuesday: 8 AM–10 PM
Wednesday: 8 AM–10 PM
Thursday: 8 AM–10 PM
Friday: 8 AM–10 PM
Saturday: 8 AM–10 PM
Highlights
Outstanding service
Fantastic food
Clean facility
Kid-friendly
Convenient parking

Let me start by saying that the service at That Mexican Place was nothing short of outstanding. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm smile and a friendly attitude. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was enjoyable.

Now, let's talk about the tacos. Oh boy, they were absolutely fantastic! Each bite was like a flavor explosion in my mouth. The tortillas were perfectly soft and warm, and the fillings were generous and flavorful. Whether you're a fan of traditional carne asada or prefer something more adventurous like fish tacos, That Mexican Place has got you covered.

The facility itself was exceptionally clean and well-maintained. It's clear that they take pride in providing a comfortable environment for their patrons. As for families with children, this place is definitely kid-friendly. They have high chairs available and even offer a separate kids' menu with mini-sized portions.

One thing I really appreciated about That Mexican Place was the convenient parking. It can be quite frustrating to find parking in busy areas, but not here! They have ample space for cars, so you don't have to worry about driving around in circles just to satisfy your taco cravings.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best tacos in Escondido, look no further than That Mexican Place. With its outstanding service, fantastic food, clean facility, kid-friendly atmosphere, and convenient parking, it ticks all the boxes for an unforgettable taco experience. Trust me on this one; you won't be disappointed!

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Craft and Taco Lounge

Craft and Taco Lounge
🗺️ 511 W Valley Pkwy, Escondido, CA 92025
☎️ 442-999-5858
🌐 Website
Sunday: 11 AM–8 PM
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 11 AM–9 PM
Wednesday: 11 AM–9 PM
Thursday: 11 AM–9 PM
Friday: 11 AM–9 PM
Saturday: 11 AM–9 PM
Highlights
Great atmosphere
Tasty Chile relleno tacos
Refreshing Agua Frescas
Unique and delicious tacos

Let me start by saying, wow! Craft and Taco Lounge truly knows how to craft a memorable taco experience. From the moment I stepped inside, I was captivated by the great atmosphere that blended modern and traditional elements seamlessly.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show – their tacos. I had the pleasure of trying their tasty Chile relleno tacos, and let me tell you, they were a flavor explosion in my mouth. The crispy exterior of the chile relleno perfectly complemented the tender and juicy filling. Each bite was like a fiesta in my taste buds!

To wash down these delectable treats, I indulged in one of their refreshing Agua Frescas. These thirst-quenching beverages were bursting with natural flavors and served as the perfect accompaniment to my taco feast.

What sets Craft and Taco Lounge apart from other establishments is their dedication to creating unique and delicious tacos. They have an impressive array of creative fillings and toppings that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're a fan of traditional favorites or looking for something more adventurous, this place has got you covered.

In conclusion, if you're searching for an extraordinary taco experience in Escondido, look no further than Craft and Taco Lounge. With its inviting ambiance, mouthwatering Chile relleno tacos, refreshing Agua Frescas, and commitment to culinary innovation, this place is a must-visit for all taco enthusiasts. Trust me when I say that your taste buds will thank you!

You might also want to check out the best tacos in San Diego.

El Indio De Tijuana Taco Shop

El Indio De Tijuana Taco Shop
🗺️ 810 N Broadway, Escondido, CA 92025
☎️ 760-489-6832
Sunday: 8 AM–10 PM
Monday: 8 AM–10 PM
Tuesday: 8 AM–10 PM
Wednesday: 8 AM–10 PM
Thursday: 8 AM–10 PM
Friday: 8 AM–10 PM
Saturday: 8 AM–10 PM
Highlights
Favorite Mexican food
Fresh and tasty food
Good prices

Upon entering the taco shop, I was immediately greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The smell of sizzling meat filled the air, drawing me closer to the counter. The menu boasted an array of mouth-watering options, making it difficult to choose just one.

Being a connoisseur of Mexican cuisine, I was delighted to find that El Indio De Tijuana Taco Shop exceeded my expectations. Each bite transported me to the vibrant streets of Tijuana, where tacos reign supreme.

The first thing that caught my attention was the freshness of their ingredients. The tortillas were soft and warm, providing the perfect vessel for the flavorful fillings. The meats were tender and succulent, seasoned to perfection. From juicy carne asada to tangy al pastor, there was no shortage of options to satisfy any taco lover's cravings.

One aspect that sets El Indio De Tijuana Taco Shop apart from its competitors is its commitment to quality at affordable prices. Despite serving top-notch tacos, they manage to keep their prices reasonable without compromising on taste or portion size.

Whether you're a die-hard taco enthusiast or someone looking for a delicious meal on a budget, El Indio De Tijuana Taco Shop is sure to impress. Their dedication to providing authentic and flavorful Mexican food makes them a standout in Escondido's culinary scene.

So if you find yourself craving some seriously good tacos in Escondido, don't hesitate to visit El Indio De Tijuana Taco Shop. Trust me when I say that your taste buds will thank you for this fiesta of flavors!

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Fridas Street Tacos

Fridas Street Tacos
🗺️ 675 E Valley Pkwy, Escondido, CA 92025
☎️ 619-519-5657
Sunday: 10 AM–11 PM
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 10 AM–11 PM
Wednesday: 10 AM–11 PM
Thursday: 10 AM–11 PM
Friday: 10 AM–12 AM
Saturday: 10 AM–12 AM
Highlights
Fantastic food
Delicious aguas frescas
Made-to-order tacos
Tasty salsa bar
Authentic flavors

Let me start by saying that the food at Fridas Street Tacos is nothing short of fantastic. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of sizzling meats and flavorful spices. It was as if my taste buds were doing a happy dance in anticipation.

One thing that sets Fridas apart from other taco joints is their selection of delicious aguas frescas. These refreshing beverages are the perfect accompaniment to their flavorful tacos. Whether you're in the mood for a traditional horchata or a tangy tamarind, you won't be disappointed.

Now, let's talk about the tacos. Oh boy, where do I even begin? Each taco is made-to-order with love and care. The tortillas are warm and soft, acting as a cozy blanket for the succulent fillings inside. One bite into these bad boys and you'll be transported to flavor heaven.

And don't get me started on their salsa bar! It's like a playground for your taste buds. With an array of vibrant and authentic flavors to choose from, you can customize your tacos to suit your personal preference. Trust me when I say that one trip to this salsa bar will leave you wanting more.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for some seriously tasty tacos in Escondido, look no further than Fridas Street Tacos. Their fantastic food, delicious aguas frescas, made-to-order tacos, and tasty salsa bar will have your taste buds doing cartwheels of joy. So go ahead and indulge yourself - after all, life is too short for bland tacos!

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Tacos El Portal

Tacos El Portal
🗺️ 311 W Mission Ave, Escondido, CA 92025
☎️ 760-489-2649
Sunday: 7 AM–9 PM
Monday: 7 AM–9 PM
Tuesday: 7 AM–9 PM
Wednesday: 7 AM–9 PM
Thursday: 7 AM–9 PM
Friday: 7 AM–9 PM
Saturday: 7 AM–9 PM
Highlights
Big flavor
Loved by many
Quality dishes
Plenty of parking
Affordable options

First things first, the flavor at Tacos El Portal is big, my taste buds were dancing a salsa. These tacos are definitely loved by many for good reason. The combination of ingredients and spices creates a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds sing.

One thing I noticed about Tacos El Portal is the quality of their dishes. Each taco is made with care and attention to detail. The meat was tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned. The toppings were fresh and added an extra layer of deliciousness to each bite.

Another highlight of this place is the abundance of parking spaces available. We all know how frustrating it can be to find parking in busy areas, but at Tacos El Portal, there's no need to worry about that. So you can focus on indulging in those tasty tacos without any parking-related stress.

And let's not forget about affordability! Tacos El Portal offers a variety of options at prices that won't break the bank. So you can enjoy a fantastic meal without having to empty your wallet.

In conclusion, if you're searching for the best tacos in Escondido, look no further than Tacos El Portal. With their big flavors, quality dishes, plenty of parking options, and affordable prices, they truly stand out among the taco scene in Escondido. Go ahead and give them a try – your taste buds will thank you!

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Taqueria Morelos

Taqueria Morelos
🗺️ 309 N Ash St, Escondido, CA 92027
☎️ 760-480-9195
🌐 Website
Sunday: 9 AM–9 PM
Monday: 9 AM–9 PM
Tuesday: 9 AM–9 PM
Wednesday: 9 AM–9 PM
Thursday: 9 AM–9 PM
Friday: 9 AM–9 PM
Saturday: 9 AM–9 PM
Highlights
Great al pastor tacos
Friendly service and clean bathrooms
Surprisingly good Cubana torta
Very affordable prices

Let me start by saying that Taqueria Morelos is a hidden gem when it comes to tasty tacos in Escondido. As I walked in, the enticing aroma of sizzling meats filled the air, immediately whetting my appetite.

I wasted no time and ordered their al pastor tacos, which turned out to be nothing short of spectacular. Each bite was a burst of flavor - tender and juicy marinated pork complemented perfectly by fragrant spices and fresh toppings. The combination was simply exquisite.

What impressed me even more was the friendly service and attention to detail at Taqueria Morelos. Not only were the staff warm and welcoming, but the cleanliness of their bathrooms was impeccable. It's refreshing to find a place that takes pride in providing not just delicious food but also a pleasant dining experience.

And speaking of surprises, let's talk about their Cubana torta. I must admit, I had my doubts about this Mexican take on a Cuban classic, but boy was I wrong! The blend of flavors from the succulent carnitas, ham, cheese, and tangy pickles left me wanting more with every bite. It's like they took two cultures and made them dance together harmoniously in one sandwich.

On top of everything else, the prices at Taqueria Morelos are incredibly affordable for the quality you receive. You can treat yourself to a mouthwatering feast without breaking the bank - what a delightful bonus!

In conclusion, if you're searching for an authentic taco experience in Escondido, look no further than Taqueria Morelos. Their great al pastor tacos will satisfy your cravings while their friendly service and clean facilities will make you feel right at home. And hey, why not give their Cubana torta a try? You might just discover your new favorite sandwich!

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El Paisa Mexican Food

El Paisa Mexican Food
🗺️ 250 Woodward Ave, Escondido, CA 92025
☎️ 760-877-8535
Sunday: 7:30 AM–10 PM
Monday: 8 AM–10 PM
Tuesday: 8 AM–10 PM
Wednesday: 8 AM–10 PM
Thursday: 8 AM–10 PM
Friday: 8 AM–10 PM
Saturday: 7:30 AM–10 PM
Highlights
Excellent food
Friendly service
Delicious dishes
Polite staff
Amazing customer service

Let me start by saying that the food at El Paisa Mexican Food is nothing short of excellent. From the first bite, I knew I was in for a treat. The flavors were vibrant and authentic, transporting my taste buds straight to the streets of Mexico.

But it wasn't just the tantalizing food that impressed me; it was the friendly service that made my dining experience truly memorable. The staff at El Paisa were not only polite but also attentive to every detail. They went above and beyond to ensure that all their customers felt welcome and satisfied.

As I savored each bite of my taco, I couldn't help but appreciate the delicious dishes offered by El Paisa. The fillings were generous, and every ingredient was fresh and bursting with flavor. It's safe to say that these tacos were a culinary masterpiece.

Moreover, the customer service at El Paisa was truly amazing. The staff took the time to engage with each customer, making everyone feel like a VIP. Their warmth and professionalism made me feel right at home.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for exceptional tacos in Escondido, look no further than El Paisa Mexican Food. With their combination of excellent food, friendly service, and amazing customer care, they have undoubtedly earned their place among the best taco spots in town. So go ahead and indulge in some mouthwatering goodness – your taste buds will thank you!

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TJ Tacos

TJ Tacos
🗺️ 802 E Valley Pkwy, Escondido, CA 92025
☎️ 760-294-7511
🌐 Website
Sunday: 10 AM–11 PM
Monday: 10 AM–11 PM
Tuesday: 10 AM–11 PM
Wednesday: 10 AM–11 PM
Thursday: 10 AM–11 PM
Friday: 10 AM–12 AM
Saturday: 10 AM–12 AM
Highlights
Delicious
Great service
Affordable
Busy place

Prepare your taste buds for a fiesta because the tacos at TJ Tacos are an explosion of flavor! From the moment I took my first bite, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The combination of perfectly seasoned meat, fresh ingredients, and homemade tortillas made each taco a work of art.

Not only were the tacos delicious, but the service was outstanding. The staff greeted me with warm smiles and were more than willing to answer all my questions about their menu. They even offered recommendations based on my preferences. Talk about going above and beyond!

The best part? These mouthwatering tacos won't break the bank. TJ Tacos is known for offering high-quality food at affordable prices. It's like hitting the jackpot without having to gamble!

Now, be warned: this place is busy. But don't let that deter you! It's a testament to just how popular their tacos are. Plus, watching them skillfully prepare each order with lightning speed is like witnessing a culinary performance.

In conclusion, if you're on a quest for the best tacos in Escondido, look no further than TJ Tacos. With their delicious flavors, great service, and wallet-friendly prices, they have definitely earned their spot on my list of top taco spots in town. So grab your sombrero and head on over for a truly unforgettable taco experience!

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Alberto's Mexican Food

Alberto's Mexican Food
🗺️ 623 N Escondido Blvd #1701, Escondido, CA 92025
☎️ 760-743-5911
Sunday: Open 24 hours
Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Highlights
Generous portions
Fast drive-thru service
Flavorful carne asada
Outdoor dining
Friendly employees

First of all, let me just say that I was blown away by the generous portions at Alberto's Mexican Food. These tacos were not playing around when it came to size. Each bite was like a flavorful explosion in my mouth, with every ingredient perfectly proportioned.

Now, if you're someone who values speed and convenience, you'll love Alberto's drive-thru service. It's like they have a secret taco assembly line in there because I barely had time to adjust my rearview mirror before my order was ready. Talk about fast food!

Speaking of flavor, let's talk about the carne asada at Alberto's. It was tender, juicy, and had just the right amount of smoky char. The seasonings were on point and really brought out the natural flavors of the meat. I could practically taste the passion that went into grilling each piece.

If you're in the mood for some fresh air while enjoying your tacos, Alberto's offers outdoor dining options. Whether you prefer basking in the sun or feeling a gentle breeze on your face as you chow down, their patio area is a great spot to savor your meal.

Last but certainly not least, let's not forget about the friendly employees at Alberto's Mexican Food. From taking my order to handing me my piping hot tacos with a smile, they made me feel truly welcome.

In conclusion, Alberto's Mexican Food is a must-visit spot for any taco lover in Escondido. With their generous portions, lightning-fast drive-thru service, flavorful carne asada, outdoor dining options, and friendly employees – this place has it all! So grab your appetite and head on over to Alberto's for an unforgettable taco experience. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

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Jilberto's Mexican Food

Jilberto's Mexican Food
🗺️ 1301 E Valley Pkwy A, Escondido, CA 92027
☎️ 760-480-2618
Sunday: 6 AM–12 AM
Monday: 6 AM–11 PM
Tuesday: 6 AM–11 PM
Wednesday: 6 AM–11 PM
Thursday: 6 AM–11 PM
Friday: 6 AM–3 AM
Saturday: 6 AM–3 AM
Highlights
Consistent flavor
Beef flautas
Late night option

First and foremost, let me tell you that the flavor at Jilberto's is consistently on point. From the moment I took my first bite, I knew I was in for a treat. The tacos here are packed with authentic Mexican flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

One of the standout items on their menu is their beef flautas. These crispy delights are filled with tender, seasoned beef that will make you wonder why you ever settled for ordinary tacos. The combination of the crunchy shell and the juicy filling is simply irresistible.

What sets Jilberto's apart from other taco spots in Escondido is their late-night option. We all know those late-night cravings can hit hard, and Jilberto's has got your back. Whether it's after a long night out or just a midnight snack attack, you can count on them to satisfy your taco desires.

The atmosphere at Jilberto's is casual and inviting, making it a great spot to hang out with friends or enjoy a quick meal on your own. The staff members are friendly and efficient, ensuring that you get your tacos promptly without sacrificing quality.

In conclusion, if you're looking for tacos that deliver consistent flavor, crave-worthy beef flautas, and a late-night option when those munchies strike, then look no further than Jilberto's Mexican Food in Escondido. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for it!

You might also want to check out the best mexican restaurant in San Diego.

La Takiza - Escondido

La Takiza - Escondido
🗺️ 634 N Escondido Blvd, Escondido, CA 92025
☎️ 760-504-0140
🌐 Website
Sunday: 8 AM–9 PM
Monday: 9 AM–9 PM
Tuesday: 9 AM–9 PM
Wednesday: 9 AM–9 PM
Thursday: 9 AM–9 PM
Friday: 9 AM–9 PM
Saturday: 8 AM–9 PM
Highlights
Great food
Great prices
Friendly staff
Delicious tacos
Plenty of parking

First and foremost, let's talk about the food. Oh my goodness, the tacos at La Takiza are pure perfection! Each bite was a tantalizing explosion of flavors that left me wanting more. The fillings were succulent and juicy, and the tortillas were soft and flavorful. I couldn't help but marvel at the expertise that went into crafting these delectable bites.

Now, let's move on to the prices. Can we just take a moment to appreciate how affordable these tacos are? It's like they're giving them away! You can savor every mouthwatering morsel without emptying your wallet. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Aside from the amazing food and great prices, the staff at La Takiza truly made my dining experience memorable. They greeted me with warm smiles and their genuine friendliness added an extra layer of enjoyment to my meal. It's rare to find such exceptional customer service these days, so kudos to them!

Not only do they have great food, great prices, and friendly staff, but there is also plenty of parking available. No need to circle around like a hungry vulture in search of a spot.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an authentic taco experience in Escondido, look no further than La Takiza. Their delicious tacos will leave your taste buds dancing with joy while keeping your wallet happy. So go ahead and indulge yourself – you deserve it!

Los Charros Mexican Food

Los Charros Mexican Food
🗺️ 915 E Valley Pkwy, Escondido, CA 92025
☎️ 760-746-2416
🌐 Website
Sunday: 7 AM–9 PM
Monday: 7 AM–9 PM
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 7 AM–9 PM
Thursday: 7 AM–9 PM
Friday: 7 AM–9 PM
Saturday: 7 AM–9 PM
Highlights
Good food
Fast service
Friendly staff
Authentic flavors
Great customer care

As soon as I walked through the door, I was greeted with a warm smile and friendly "¡Bienvenidos!" from the staff at Los Charros Mexican Food. It was clear that their excellent customer care was one of the highlights of this place.

After being seated, I eagerly perused the menu, which boasted an array of mouthwatering taco options. From traditional favorites like carne asada and al pastor to more adventurous choices like birria and lengua, there was something to please every taco enthusiast.

When my tacos arrived, I couldn't contain my excitement. The first bite transported me to the streets of Mexico City. The flavors were authentic and bursted with a harmonious blend of spices and seasonings. Each filling was tender, juicy, and perfectly cooked – a testament to their culinary expertise.

What impressed me even more than the delicious food was the speed at which it arrived at my table. Despite the restaurant being bustling with hungry patrons, the service was impressively fast. This is key for those who want their tacos pronto!

The staff continued to be attentive throughout my meal, ensuring that I had everything I needed without being intrusive. Their genuine friendliness added an extra layer of enjoyment to my dining experience.

In conclusion, Los Charros Mexican Food is a hidden gem in Escondido's taco scene. With its good food, fast service, and friendly staff, it's no wonder locals rave about this place. If you're looking for truly authentic flavors and outstanding customer care, be sure to make a stop at Los Charros Mexican Food for some unforgettable tacos!

Junior's Taco Shop

Junior's Taco Shop
🗺️ 1102 Industrial Ave, Escondido, CA 92029
☎️ 760-975-3910
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 6 AM–6 PM
Tuesday: 6 AM–6 PM
Wednesday: 6 AM–6 PM
Thursday: 6 AM–6 PM
Friday: 6 AM–6 PM
Saturday: 6 AM–6 PM
Highlights
Filling breakfast tacos
Fresh ingredients
Salsa bar
Worth the visit
Tasty food

As soon as I walked into Junior's Taco Shop, the aroma of sizzling meat and freshly made tortillas greeted my nostrils, instantly making me hungry. The menu offered a wide variety of options, but I couldn't resist trying their famous breakfast tacos.

I ordered the filling breakfast tacos filled with fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and melted cheese. Each bite was a harmonious symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds. The eggs were perfectly cooked, and the bacon added a delightful smoky crunch. The freshness of the ingredients truly shone through in every bite.

What really impressed me about Junior's Taco Shop was their attention to detail. They had a salsa bar with an array of vibrant and zesty salsas, allowing customers to customize their tacos to their liking. From mild to fiery, there was a salsa for every taste bud.

The service at Junior's Taco Shop was exceptional; the staff members were friendly and efficient, ensuring that every customer felt welcomed. The atmosphere was relaxed yet lively, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends or family.

Junior's Taco Shop is definitely worth the visit if you're in Escondido and craving some tasty food. Their commitment to using fresh ingredients and creating flavorful combinations sets them apart from other taco joints in town.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an authentic taco experience in Escondido, look no further than Junior's Taco Shop. With its delicious offerings and inviting ambiance, it is undoubtedly one of the best taco spots in town.

Brad ThomasB
WRITTEN BY

Brad Thomas

With a true passion for exploring all that San Diego has to offer, Brad takes great pleasure in discovering new spots and sharing his experiences with his readers. From hidden gems to tried-and-true favorites, he doesn't miss a beat when it comes to exploring different corners of town. When he's not writing or dining out, Brad can be found soaking up some sunshine at the beach or taking an outdoor adventure around SoCal.Read more

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