Old Town San Diego's Best Tacos [Updated 2024]

I've had the pleasure of trying out numerous taco spots in Old Town, and let me tell you, it's not an easy task. With a whopping 13 places reviewed, it's safe to say that I've dedicated plenty of time to this noble quest.

But fear not, dear reader! I'm here to share my experiences and guide you through the flavorful journey of finding the best tacos in Old Town San Diego. Get ready for some scrumptious bites, mouthwatering descriptions, and a healthy dose of lightheartedness along the way. So let's dive right in and satisfy those taco cravings!

Old Town Mexican Cafe

Table: Highlights of Old Town Mexican Cafe

Highlights
Crispy ground beef tacos
Authentic enchilada sauce
Fantastic Mezcal margarita
Special habanero sauce for chips
Friendly and knowledgeable staff

Let me begin by saying that the crispy ground beef tacos at Old Town Mexican Cafe are simply divine. The perfectly seasoned meat is nestled inside a corn tortilla, which has been expertly fried to a delectable crunch. Each bite is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will transport you straight to taco heaven.

One cannot mention Old Town Mexican Cafe without praising their authentic enchilada sauce. It's rich, savory, and bursting with complex flavors that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Whether you choose chicken, cheese, or beef for your enchiladas, this sauce elevates them to new heights of deliciousness.

To complement these mouthwatering tacos and enchiladas, I highly recommend indulging in their fantastic Mezcal margarita. This smoky twist on the classic drink adds an extra layer of sophistication and pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of the food.

As if all of this wasn't enough, Old Town Mexican Cafe also offers a special habanero sauce for their chips. Be warned: it's not for the faint of heart! But if you're like me and enjoy a little heat with your meal, this fiery condiment will add an extra kick to your dining experience.

Lastly, I must mention the exceptional service provided by the staff. Not only are they friendly, but they are also incredibly knowledgeable about the menu and can provide helpful recommendations based on your preferences.

In conclusion, if you find yourself in Old Town San Diego craving some top-notch tacos, look no further than Old Town Mexican Cafe. Their crispy ground beef tacos, authentic enchilada sauce, fantastic Mezcal margaritas, special habanero sauce for chips, and friendly staff make it a must-visit destination for taco enthusiasts like myself.

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El Agave Restaurant & Tequileria

Highlights
Wonderful atmosphere
Personable and attentive service
Perfect fish tacos and salsas
Fork tender octopus
Amazing beef filet tacos

Walking into El Agave Restaurant & Tequileria, I was immediately captivated by its wonderful atmosphere. The elegant decor and warm lighting created a cozy and inviting ambiance that made me feel right at home.

The service at El Agave was nothing short of exceptional. The staff was personable and attentive, going above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was memorable. Their knowledge of the menu and recommendations were spot-on, adding an extra level of enjoyment to my visit.

Now, let's talk about the tacos. Oh boy, were they a delight! The fish tacos were simply perfect, with a crispy exterior giving way to tender and flavorful fish inside. The accompanying salsas added a delightful kick, elevating the overall taste experience to new heights.

But it doesn't stop there! El Agave also surprised me with their fork-tender octopus taco. Each bite was a revelation of tenderness and flavor, showcasing their culinary expertise in seafood preparation.

And let's not forget about the beef filet tacos. These little pockets of joy were bursting with savory goodness. The perfectly cooked beef melted in my mouth while being complemented by fresh toppings and a delicate sauce.

In conclusion, my visit to El Agave Restaurant & Tequileria left me thoroughly impressed. With its wonderful atmosphere, personable service, and outstanding taco selection, this place is truly deserving of a spot on any list of the best tacos in Old Town San Diego. So if you're looking for an unforgettable taco experience accompanied by great tequilas, make sure to give El Agave a visit - you won't be disappointed!

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The Congress Cafe

Highlights
Spectacular food
Excellent service
Accommodating to dogs
Nice ambiance
Tasty Venezuelan cuisine

From the moment I entered The Congress Cafe, I knew I was in for a treat. The spectacular food they serve is nothing short of a flavor explosion in my mouth. Each bite of their tacos was like a dance party for my taste buds, with the perfect combination of fresh ingredients and savory flavors.

Not only was the food amazing, but the excellent service made me feel like a VIP. The staff was attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about their menu. They were more than happy to answer all my questions and even offered suggestions on which taco to try next.

One thing that sets The Congress Cafe apart from other taco joints is their accommodation for dogs. Yes, you heard that right! This place welcomes your furry friends with open arms. So if you have a four-legged companion who loves tacos as much as you do, bring them along for a delightful dining experience.

The ambiance at The Congress Cafe is also worth mentioning. With its cozy yet vibrant atmosphere, it's the perfect place to enjoy some delicious tacos while soaking in the Old Town San Diego vibes. The restaurant's decor adds an authentic touch to the overall experience.

Lastly, let's not forget about their tasty Venezuelan cuisine. Apart from their delectable tacos, they also offer a variety of other Venezuelan dishes that are sure to please any food lover.

In conclusion, if you're searching for the best tacos in Old Town San Diego, look no further than The Congress Cafe. With its spectacular food, excellent service, dog-friendly policy, nice ambiance, and tasty Venezuelan cuisine, it truly deserves its spot on the list of top taco spots in town.

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Casa de Reyes

Highlights
Fun atmosphere
Delicious food
Fast service

Let's start with the fun atmosphere at Casa de Reyes. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by vibrant colors, lively music, and a festive ambiance that made me feel like I had stepped into a Mexican fiesta. The outdoor patio was especially charming, with its twinkling lights and cozy seating areas.

Now let's talk about the delicious food. Casa de Reyes definitely did not disappoint in this department. Their menu offers a wide range of taco options, from traditional favorites like carne asada and al pastor to more unique creations like their Baja fish tacos. Each taco was packed with flavor and expertly seasoned. The toppings were fresh and added an extra burst of deliciousness.

In terms of fast service, I was impressed with how quickly our food arrived at the table. The staff was friendly and attentive, ensuring that our drinks were always refilled and checking in to make sure we were enjoying our meal.

Overall, Casa de Reyes is a must-visit spot for taco enthusiasts in Old Town San Diego. With its fun atmosphere, delicious food, and fast service, it checks all the boxes for a memorable dining experience. So grab your amigos or amigas and head over to Casa de Reyes for some truly taco-riffic delights!

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Casa de Freds, Tacos y Tequila

Highlights
Dog-friendly
Great margaritas
San Diego tortilla
Terrific service
Taco Tuesday deals

From the moment I stepped into Casa de Freds, Tacos y Tequila, I knew I was in for a treat. Not only do they serve some of the best tacos in Old Town San Diego, but their charming dog-friendly patio also added an extra layer of enjoyment to my dining experience.

As a taco connoisseur, I always appreciate when a restaurant goes above and beyond with their tortillas. Casa de Freds certainly did not disappoint in this regard. Their San Diego tortillas were soft, pillowy, and packed with flavor. Each bite was like a fiesta exploding in my mouth!

To accompany my delightful tacos, I opted for one of their famous margaritas. And boy, am I glad I did! The margaritas at Casa de Freds are truly top-notch. They strike the perfect balance between tangy and sweet, with just the right amount of tequila to make you feel like you're on vacation even if you're just taking a lunch break from work.

What really set Casa de Freds apart from other taco joints in Old Town San Diego was their terrific service. The staff was attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about their menu. They were more than happy to offer recommendations and answer any questions I had about their tacos or tequila selection.

And let's not forget about Taco Tuesday! Casa de Freds knows how to keep its customers happy with their amazing Taco Tuesday deals. It's like Christmas once a week for taco lovers!

In conclusion, if you find yourself in Old Town San Diego craving some outstanding tacos and a fantastic dining experience, look no further than Casa de Freds, Tacos y Tequila. With its dog-friendly patio, great margaritas, San Diego tortillas, terrific service, and Taco Tuesday deals that will make your taste buds dance with joy - this place is simply unbeatable!

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Barra Barra

Highlights
Great Mexican restaurant
Amazing service
Delicious food
Kid-friendly

Let me tell you, dear taco enthusiasts, that Barra Barra is not just a great Mexican restaurant; it's a feast for the senses. From the moment I walked through its charming doors, I was greeted with warm smiles and welcomed into a vibrant atmosphere. The staff at Barra Barra truly understands the meaning of amazing service.

But let's get to what we all came here for: the tacos. Oh, dear reader, these tacos are nothing short of culinary artistry. Each bite transported me to taco heaven. The flavors were perfectly balanced, with a tantalizing blend of spices that danced on my taste buds. Whether you prefer carne asada, al pastor, or vegetarian options, Barra Barra has something to please every palate.

What truly sets this place apart is its commitment to catering to all diners. Not only do they offer a variety of mouthwatering meat and veggie options but they also have a kid-friendly menu that will put a smile on any little one's face. So whether you're a seasoned taco connoisseur or embarking on your first taco adventure, rest assured that Barra Barra has got you covered.

In conclusion, if you find yourself in Old Town San Diego in search of the best tacos around, look no further than Barra Barra. With their combination of delicious food, exceptional service, and family-friendly atmosphere, it's truly an experience worth savoring. Trust me when I say that your taste buds will thank you for this delightful journey into taco perfection!

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Casa Guadalajara

Highlights
Popular, expect a wait
Great food and big portions
Amazing margaritas
Fun and happy ambiance
Live music adds to experience

Let me start by saying that if you're looking for a quick bite to eat, Casa Guadalajara might not be your best bet. This place is so popular that you can expect a bit of a wait, but trust me when I say it's worth every minute!

The first thing that caught my attention was the great food and big portions. The tacos here are simply divine! Each bite is bursting with flavor, and the combination of fresh ingredients and perfectly seasoned meat is a match made in taco heaven. And let's not forget about the tortillas – they are soft, warm, and just the right size to hold all those mouthwatering fillings.

Now, let's talk about their margaritas. Oh boy, they are something else! Sipping on one of Casa Guadalajara's amazing margaritas is like taking a mini vacation to Margaritaville. They come in different flavors and sizes, so you can find the perfect one to quench your thirst and add some extra fun to your meal.

Speaking of fun, Casa Guadalajara has a vibrant and happy ambiance. The colorful decor and lively atmosphere make you feel like you're part of a fiesta. And guess what? Sometimes there's even live music playing in the background, which adds an extra layer of excitement to the whole dining experience.

In conclusion, if you're in Old Town San Diego and want to indulge in some top-notch tacos while enjoying a fun-filled atmosphere, Casa Guadalajara should be at the top of your list. Just remember to bring your appetite and maybe even some dancing shoes – because this place knows how to serve up both flavor and fun!

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Casa de Maria Restaurant

Highlights
Authentic atmosphere
Friendly and knowledgeable staff
Wide selection of Tequila
Great service

Let me start by saying that Casa de Maria Restaurant truly captures the essence of Old Town San Diego with its authentic atmosphere. As soon as I walked through the door, I felt like I had been transported back in time to the days of Spanish settlers and Mexican cowboys. The vibrant colors, traditional decorations, and lively music all contributed to the overall ambience.

What really impressed me about Casa de Maria was their friendly and knowledgeable staff. They greeted me with warm smiles and were more than happy to answer my questions about their menu. Their passion for Mexican cuisine was evident, and it made my dining experience even more enjoyable.

Speaking of the menu, Casa de Maria offers a wide selection of tacos that will make any taco enthusiast's heart skip a beat. From classic carne asada to mouthwatering fish tacos, they have something to satisfy every craving. And let's not forget their impressive collection of tequila! It's a true paradise for tequila lovers.

The service at Casa de Maria deserves special mention as well. The waitstaff was attentive without being intrusive, ensuring that my glass remained full and my taco plate never empty. They went above and beyond to ensure that all guests felt welcome and taken care of.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an authentic Mexican dining experience in Old Town San Diego, look no further than Casa de Maria Restaurant. With its authentic atmosphere, friendly staff, wide selection of tequila, and great service, it is definitely one of the top contenders for the title of best taco spot in town. Whether you're a taco aficionado or just someone looking for a delicious meal, Casa de Maria won't disappoint. So grab your sombrero (or not) and head on over for a fiesta in your mouth!

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Miguel's Cocina

Highlights
Close to parking
Friendly service
Top notch food

Let me start by saying that Miguel's Cocina is a hidden gem nestled in Old Town San Diego. As soon as I arrived, one of the first things that caught my attention was the convenient parking nearby. Trust me, when you're on a mission to find the best tacos, not having to trek for miles from your car is an absolute blessing.

As I stepped inside, I was greeted with warm smiles and embraced by a friendly atmosphere. The staff at Miguel's Cocina really knows how to make you feel welcome. They were attentive and knowledgeable, eager to assist me in making the most delicious taco choices.

Now let's talk about the tacos themselves. Oh my, where do I even begin? The moment those plates arrived at my table, I knew I was in for something special. Each taco was a work of art, bursting with vibrant colors and enticing aromas. The flavors danced on my taste buds with every bite.

The menu offers a variety of options that cater to both meat lovers and vegetarians alike. From succulent carne asada to mouth-watering shrimp tacos, Miguel's Cocina has it all. And don't even get me started on their homemade tortillas; they were so fresh and perfectly cooked that they practically melted in my mouth.

What sets Miguel's Cocina apart from other taco joints is their commitment to using high-quality ingredients sourced locally whenever possible. You can truly taste the difference in every bite.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an unforgettable taco experience in Old Town San Diego, make sure to swing by Miguel's Cocina. With its close proximity to parking, friendly service, and top-notch food, this place is definitely worth checking out. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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Tuetano Taqueria

Highlights
Exquisite bone marrow tacos
Easy ordering with touch screen
Not too sweet horchata
Homemade tortillas
Delicious chorizo taco

Nestled in the heart of Old Town San Diego, Tuetano Taqueria is a hidden gem that will make your taste buds dance with joy. As I entered the vibrant eatery, I was immediately drawn to the easy ordering system, where a touch screen allowed me to customize my taco selection effortlessly. Talk about technology meets deliciousness!

Now let's talk about the star of the show: their exquisite bone marrow tacos. Oh my goodness! The succulent and tender meat combined with the richness of bone marrow created a flavor explosion in my mouth that I won't soon forget. It was like a fiesta for my taste buds!

But it doesn't stop there. The homemade tortillas deserve a standing ovation. Soft and warm, they were the perfect vessel for these heavenly creations. Each bite was a celebration of Mexican culinary craftsmanship.

The chorizo taco at Tuetano Taqueria deserves special mention as well. Bursting with smoky and spicy flavors, it had just the right amount of kick without overpowering the palate. It was truly muy delicioso!

To complement these delectable treats, I sipped on their horchata - not too sweet but refreshingly satisfying. It provided a cool respite from the bold flavors of the tacos.

Tuetano Taqueria is an experience not to be missed in Old Town San Diego. With their attention to detail, top-notch ingredients, and playful twist on traditional flavors, this taqueria has cemented its place among the best tacos in town. So grab your amigos and head over to Tuetano Taqueria for an unforgettable taco adventure!

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Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina

Highlights
Delicious food
Spectacular view of Old Town
Friendly and professional staff
Amazing views of San Diego

Let me start by saying that this place is a hidden gem for taco lovers like myself. As I entered the restaurant, I was immediately captivated by the spectacular view of Old Town and its vibrant atmosphere. It's safe to say that my taste buds were already tingling with anticipation.

The menu offered a wide variety of options, but being on a mission to find the best tacos in Old Town San Diego, I focused on their taco selection. And boy, did they deliver! Each bite of their tacos was a burst of flavor that took my palate on a joyride. The combination of fresh ingredients, perfectly seasoned meats, and homemade tortillas created a symphony of deliciousness in my mouth.

But let's not forget about the staff. The friendly and professional attitude of the employees made the whole experience even more enjoyable. They were knowledgeable about the menu and gave excellent recommendations. Their passion for food was evident, and it added an extra layer of satisfaction to my dining experience.

And if you thought it couldn't get any better, think again! The restaurant boasts amazing views of San Diego that are truly breathtaking. There's something magical about enjoying mouthwatering tacos while gazing out at the stunning cityscape.

In conclusion, Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina is definitely a must-visit spot for taco enthusiasts in Old Town San Diego. With its delicious food, spectacular views, and friendly staff, it ticks all the boxes for an unforgettable dining experience. So grab your sombrero and head over there for some seriously tasty tacos!

Street Tacos!

Highlights
Fantastic price
Three meat options
Worth the price

Upon entering Street Tacos!, I was immediately drawn to the fantastic prices displayed on their menu. As a taco enthusiast, finding delicious tacos at affordable prices is like discovering a hidden treasure. And let me tell you, Street Tacos! did not disappoint.

One of the highlights of Street Tacos! is their wide selection of three meat options. From succulent carne asada to tender shredded chicken and flavorful al pastor, there's something for every taste bud. The meats were perfectly seasoned, cooked to perfection, and packed with mouthwatering flavors.

But what truly sets Street Tacos! apart is that they deliver excellent quality tacos without breaking your wallet. In this day and age, finding good food at reasonable prices can be a challenge, but Street Tacos! manages to strike that perfect balance between affordability and taste.

The ambiance of the restaurant was casual yet inviting, with friendly staff who were more than willing to assist in making recommendations. The service was prompt and efficient, ensuring that my hunger was satisfied in no time.

In conclusion, if you're looking for flavorful tacos that won't burn a hole in your pocket, then Street Tacos! is definitely worth a visit. Their fantastic prices combined with their range of meat options make it an ideal spot for taco lovers seeking a satisfying experience. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you for choosing Street Tacos!.

Cafe Coyote

Highlights
Fresh, handmade tortillas
Good food, good service
Vegetarian options available
Fast and friendly service
Wide variety of delicious dishes

Let me start by saying, if you're looking for tacos with a twist, this place has got you covered. The first thing that caught my attention was their fresh, handmade tortillas. As any taco connoisseur knows, the tortilla is the foundation of a great taco, and Cafe Coyote definitely nailed it in that department.

Not only do they offer traditional meat options like carne asada and al pastor, but they also have a range of vegetarian options available. Finally, a place where herbivores can feast without feeling left out! I tried their grilled vegetable tacos and let me tell you, even this carnivorous writer was impressed. The combination of flavors and textures was simply delightful.

What made my experience even better was the fast and friendly service I received at Cafe Coyote. The staff was attentive, making sure I had everything I needed to enjoy my meal. And speaking of enjoying my meal, let's not forget about the wide variety of delicious dishes they offer beyond tacos. From enchiladas to tamales, there's something for everyone here.

In conclusion, Cafe Coyote is more than just a taco joint; it's an experience. With their fresh tortillas, diverse menu options, and top-notch service, this place should be on every taco lover's radar when visiting Old Town San Diego. So go ahead and indulge in some tasty treats at Cafe Coyote - your taste buds will thank you!