San Diego's Best Tacos [Updated 2024]

Who doesn't love tacos? And if you're lucky enough to be in San Diego, the taco options are endless.

As a proud local, I've spent years exploring this city's vibrant taco scene, and let me tell you, I know a thing or two about finding the best tacos. From hidden gems in local neighborhoods to popular spots that never disappoint, I've tried them all.

So sit back and get ready for a lighthearted journey as I take you through my top picks for the best tacos in San Diego. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Lola 55 Tacos & Cocktails

Highlights
Inventive flavors
Quick service
Unique non-traditional tacos
Great for groups
Fish taco and elote recommended

Upon entering Lola 55, I was immediately captivated by the inventive flavors and modern ambiance. The menu boasted a wide array of unique non-traditional tacos that had my taste buds tingling with anticipation.

The service at Lola 55 was nothing short of exceptional, with quick service that made me feel like a valued customer. The staff was knowledgeable and enthusiastic, eagerly guiding me through their tantalizing taco selection.

Now let's talk about the star of the show – the tacos! Each bite was a delightful explosion of flavors, showcasing the creativity and culinary expertise behind each creation. From the tangy citrus notes in the fish taco to the smoky undertones of their elote-inspired offering, every taco left me wanting more.

Lola 55 is not only perfect for solo taco enthusiasts but also great for groups looking to indulge in some fantastic food together. The vibrant atmosphere and communal seating create an inviting space where friends can bond over their shared love for delicious tacos.

If you're searching for an extraordinary taco experience in San Diego, look no further than Lola 55 Tacos & Cocktails. Their inventive flavors, quick service, and unique twist on traditional tacos make it a must-visit destination for any discerning taco lover. Trust me when I say that Lola 55 will leave you craving more with every bite!

You might also want to check out the best fast food burger in San Diego.

Tacos El Cabron

Highlights
Delicious California burrito
High-quality meat
Tasty tortilla
Amazing salsa bar

From the moment I walked into Tacos El Cabron, I could tell that they take their tacos seriously. The aroma of sizzling meat filled the air, tempting my taste buds with promises of deliciousness. As I perused the menu, one item caught my eye: the California burrito. Now, I know what you're thinking - a burrito in a taco review? But trust me, this is no ordinary burrito.

The Delicious California burrito at Tacos El Cabron is an absolute game-changer. It's packed with high-quality meat cooked to perfection. Each bite was a delightful explosion of flavors that danced on my palate like a salsa party in my mouth.

But let's not forget about the star of the show – the tortilla. It was a work of art, a true masterpiece. Soft yet sturdy, it cradled all the ingredients with tender love and care. It held its shape admirably even under the weight of all that delectable goodness.

And speaking of goodness, let's talk about their salsa bar. Oh boy! The variety and quality of salsas available were enough to make any taco lover weak in the knees. From mild to fiery, each salsa had its own personality and added an extra kick to every bite.

In conclusion, Tacos El Cabron is a must-visit for anyone searching for taco excellence. Their Delicious California burrito alone is worth the trip, but their high-quality meat and tasty tortillas will keep you coming back for more. And don't even get me started on their amazing salsa bar! So go ahead and indulge your taste buds at Tacos El Cabron – your stomach will thank you later!

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

The Taco Stand

Highlights
Fresh salsas
Friendly staff
Delicious burritos
Best Al Pastor taco
Filling and delicious meals

Let me start by saying that The Taco Stand is truly a hidden gem in the world of tacos. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by their friendly staff, who were as inviting as the aroma of sizzling meat wafting through the air.

The menu at The Taco Stand boasts an impressive selection of mouthwatering options, but it was their Al Pastor taco that stole the show. Each bite was an explosion of flavors, with tender marinated pork complemented perfectly by fresh cilantro and onions. It's no wonder this taco has gained a reputation for being the best in town.

What sets The Taco Stand apart from its competitors is its commitment to freshness. Their salsas are made daily using only the finest ingredients, resulting in a vibrant burst of flavor with every dip. Whether you prefer mild or fiery, there's a salsa to suit every taste bud.

But tacos aren't the only star of the show here. Their burritos are equally as delicious and satisfying. Picture this: a warm tortilla wrapped tightly around juicy meats, melted cheese, crisp lettuce, and creamy guacamole. It's like a flavor party in your mouth!

One thing I must mention is that these tacos are not for those with small appetites. The portions at The Taco Stand are generous and filling, ensuring that you'll leave with a satisfied belly and a smile on your face.

In conclusion, if you're seeking an unforgettable taco experience in San Diego, look no further than The Taco Stand. With their fresh salsas, friendly staff, and delicious burritos, it's no wonder they've earned their spot on my list of top taco destinations in San Diego.

So why wait? Grab your friends and head over to The Taco Stand for a flavor-filled adventure!

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

The Blind Burro

Highlights
Great place for families
Excellent service
Delicious food and drinks
Friendly staff

Upon entering The Blind Burro, I was immediately struck by the vibrant and lively atmosphere. This place is a great spot for families, as it exudes a warm and inviting vibe that makes you feel right at home. The staff greeted me with genuine smiles, making me feel instantly welcomed.

The service at The Blind Burro is truly top-notch. The waitstaff was attentive and knowledgeable, offering helpful suggestions and ensuring that my dining experience was nothing short of stellar. They effortlessly balanced professionalism with friendliness, leaving me impressed.

Now let's get to the main event: the tacos. Oh boy, did The Blind Burro deliver! Each bite was a fiesta for the taste buds. From the tender carnitas to the perfectly seasoned carne asada, every ingredient danced harmoniously on my palate. I couldn't help but delight in the explosion of flavors that erupted with each taco.

To complement their delicious food, The Blind Burro boasts an impressive selection of drinks. Whether you prefer a classic margarita or are feeling adventurous enough to try their signature cocktails, your thirst will surely be quenched.

Throughout my visit, the staff continued to impress me with their friendly and accommodating nature. They were more than willing to cater to any dietary restrictions or preferences, ensuring that everyone leaves satisfied.

In conclusion, if you're searching for an unforgettable taco experience in San Diego, look no further than The Blind Burro. With its welcoming ambiance, excellent service, and mouthwatering tacos, this place is sure to leave you craving more. So go ahead and indulge in these delectable treats—you won't be disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in LA Jolla.

Serrano's Street Tacos & Bar

Highlights
Delicious barria taco
Strong cucumber margarita
Excellent sauce for tacos
Friendly and timely service
Tasty asada and grilled chicken tacos

Let me start by saying that Serrano's Street Tacos & Bar knows how to make a mean taco.

First up, their barria taco. Oh mama mia! This taco is a flavor explosion in your mouth. The meat is tender and juicy, with just the right amount of spice. Each bite is like a fiesta in your taste buds. Delicious doesn't even begin to describe it.

And let's not forget about their cucumber margarita. Now, I know what you're thinking - cucumber in a margarita? Trust me on this one. The combination of refreshing cucumber and tangy lime creates a drink that will have you sipping it till the last drop.

But what truly sets Serrano's apart from the rest is their excellent sauce for tacos. It's like they've cracked the code to the perfect sauce formula. It adds an extra layer of flavor that takes their already amazing tacos to new heights.

Aside from the delectable food, I was also impressed by their friendly and timely service. The staff made me feel welcomed and attended to my every need with a smile.

Last but definitely not least, their asada and grilled chicken tacos were equally tasty. The flavors were perfectly balanced, leaving me wanting more after each bite.

In conclusion, if you're searching for top-notch tacos in San Diego, look no further than Serrano's Street Tacos & Bar. They've got the delicious barria taco, strong cucumber margarita, excellent sauce, friendly service, and tantalizing asada and grilled chicken tacos that will leave you craving for more. Make sure to check them out - your taste buds will thank you!

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

¡SALUD TACOS!

Highlights
Taco Tuesday deals
Trendy/hip/casual vibe
Excellent service

First of all, let's talk about Taco Tuesday deals. If there's one thing that can make a taco taste even better, it's knowing that you're getting a great deal on it. And boy, does ¡SALUD TACOS! deliver on that front! Every Tuesday, they offer tantalizing taco specials that will make your taste buds jump for joy and your wallet breathe a sigh of relief.

Now let me set the scene for you. When you step into ¡SALUD TACOS!, you'll be greeted by a trendy, hip, and casual vibe that immediately puts you in the mood for some seriously good eats. The colorful decor and lively atmosphere create the perfect backdrop for indulging in their mouthwatering tacos. It's like stepping into a street party where every bite is a celebration.

But let's not forget about the star of the show - the tacos themselves. With each bite, I could taste the expertise and passion that went into creating these culinary masterpieces. The tortillas were fresh and perfectly cooked, providing just the right amount of substance to hold together the explosion of flavors within.

What truly sets ¡SALUD TACOS! apart is their excellent service. The staff was knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive throughout my visit. They were more than happy to answer any questions I had and offer recommendations based on my preferences. It made me feel like I was being taken care of by a team of taco connoisseurs.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an unforgettable taco experience in San Diego, look no further than ¡SALUD TACOS!. They've got Taco Tuesday deals that will make your taste buds sing, a trendy atmosphere that will make you feel like part of the cool crowd, and service so good it'll have you saying "¡Salud!" with every bite. So go ahead and indulge in some taco paradise - your taste buds will thank you.

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

Coal Bros Taqueria

Highlights
Amazing food
Ribeye Taco
Freshly made
Delicious
Unique atmosphere

As soon as I walked into Coal Bros Taqueria, I could tell this place was going to be something special. The unique atmosphere with its rustic decor and warm lighting set the stage for a truly memorable taco experience.

I started off with their ribeye taco, and let me tell you, it was a taste bud extravaganza! The succulent ribeye was perfectly cooked and seasoned to perfection. Each bite had a melt-in-your-mouth tenderness that left me craving more. The combination of flavors in this taco was simply divine. It was like a party in my mouth, with the tanginess of the salsa verde dancing harmoniously with the richness of the meat.

One thing that sets Coal Bros apart from other taquerias is their commitment to freshness. You can taste it in every bite. From the house-made tortillas to the vibrant toppings, everything feels like it was just prepared minutes before hitting your plate.

The attention to detail and dedication to quality shines through in every aspect of this dining experience. The menu is carefully curated, offering a variety of options that cater to all taste buds. Whether you're a meat lover or prefer vegetarian options, there's something for everyone at Coal Bros.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an unforgettable taco experience in San Diego, look no further than Coal Bros Taqueria. With their amazing food, freshly made tortillas, and unique atmosphere, you'll be transported to taco heaven with each bite. Don't miss out on this delicious gem!

P.S. Just be warned - once you try their tacos, you may find yourself becoming addicted! But hey, there are worse things to be addicted to than exceptional tacos!

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

Azteca Taco Shop

Highlights
Hearty portions
Affordable prices
Tasty breakfast burritos
Variety of sauce options
Convenient location

Upon entering Azteca Taco Shop, I was immediately greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The aroma of sizzling meat filled the air, making my taste buds tingle with anticipation. As I perused their menu, I couldn't help but notice that they offered hearty portions at affordable prices. This was already starting off on a promising note.

I decided to indulge in one of their famous breakfast burritos, as I had heard great things about them. Let me tell you, they did not disappoint! The tortilla was perfectly toasted and held together all the delicious ingredients within. Each bite revealed a burst of flavors that danced across my palate like a well-choreographed salsa routine.

What impressed me most about Azteca Taco Shop was their wide array of sauce options. From mild to fiery hot, they had something to satisfy every spice lover's cravings. I found myself reaching for different sauces after each bite, experimenting with combinations that elevated the already scrumptious flavors.

The convenience of Azteca Taco Shop's location is another aspect worth mentioning. Situated in the heart of San Diego, it makes for an ideal spot to grab a quick and satisfying meal. Whether you're on your lunch break or exploring the city, this taco shop won't disappoint.

Overall, my visit to Azteca Taco Shop left me thoroughly impressed with their tasty breakfast burritos, variety of sauce options, and affordable prices. If you're looking for a place where deliciousness meets affordability, look no further than Azteca Taco Shop. Your taste buds will thank you!

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

La Fachada

Highlights
Top tier food
Authentic shrimp taco
Casual atmosphere
Friendly service

Let me start by saying that the food at La Fachada is top tier. Each bite of their exquisite tacos left me craving for more. The flavors were so vibrant and well-balanced that it felt like a culinary symphony in my mouth.

One standout taco was their authentic shrimp taco. The shrimp were perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection, with a delightful combination of spices that danced on my taste buds. The freshness of the ingredients truly shone through, making it a true delicacy.

Beyond the outstanding food, La Fachada offers a casual atmosphere that is perfect for enjoying a delicious meal. Whether you're dining inside or sitting at one of their outdoor tables, you'll feel right at home. The restaurant has an inviting ambiance that adds to the overall dining experience.

Moreover, I must mention the friendly service I received during my visit. The staff members were welcoming and attentive, going above and beyond to ensure that every customer had an enjoyable time. They were knowledgeable about the menu and provided helpful recommendations when asked.

In conclusion, La Fachada is undeniably one of San Diego's best taco spots. With its top-tier food, authentic shrimp tacos, casual atmosphere, and friendly service, it's a place where your taste buds will rejoice. So if you're in search of an exceptional taco experience, make sure to pay La Fachada a visit—you won't be disappointed!

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

Las Cuatro Milpas

Highlights
Delicious, cheap, local food!
Authentic delicious Mexican food
Handmade tortillas are sooo good!
Short line that moves fast
Cash only

Upon entering Las Cuatro Milpas, I was immediately hit with the mouthwatering aroma of authentic Mexican food. The place was bustling with locals and visitors alike, all eager to get their hands on some scrumptious tacos.

The short line moved rapidly, a blessing for hungry taco enthusiasts like myself. I couldn't help but notice that the prices were incredibly affordable. It's refreshing to find a place that offers delicious food without breaking the bank. Plus, they only accept cash, which adds a touch of nostalgia to the experience.

Now let's talk about the star of the show: the tacos. Oh boy, were they phenomenal! Each bite felt like a fiesta in my mouth. The handmade tortillas were simply divine; soft and slightly chewy, they cradled generous portions of perfectly seasoned meat. The flavors danced harmoniously together, creating an explosion of happiness on my taste buds.

But wait, there's more! Las Cuatro Milpas also offers other delightful options like tamales and beans. And don't even get me started on their salsa—it had just the right amount of kick to complement the richness of the tacos.

If you're looking for an authentic Mexican food experience that won't empty your wallet, Las Cuatro Milpas is a must-visit spot in San Diego. With its delicious, cheap, and local fare, it truly deserves its spot among the best tacos in town.

So go ahead and grab some cash (or hit up an ATM), head over to Las Cuatro Milpas, and prepare yourself for a flavor-packed adventure that will leave you begging for more!

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

Roxy’s Tacos

Highlights
Fish tacos
Helpful staff
Good customer service
Delicious birria queso taco
Improved atmosphere

Let me start by saying that Roxy’s Tacos has definitely earned a spot on the list of the best tacos in San Diego. Their fish tacos were absolutely outstanding. The crispy, golden batter was like a magical shield protecting the tender fish inside. Each bite was a burst of flavor that transported me to a tropical paradise.

Not only were the tacos delicious, but the staff at Roxy’s Tacos was also incredibly helpful and provided top-notch customer service. They seemed genuinely passionate about their food and were more than happy to answer any questions I had about their menu or offer suggestions for other tasty treats.

One taco that really stole the show for me was their birria queso taco. A combination of succulent birria meat, gooey melted cheese, and a perfectly toasted tortilla created an explosion of flavors in my mouth. It was like a party happening on my taste buds, and I never wanted it to end.

I also appreciated the improved atmosphere at Roxy’s Tacos. With its vibrant colors and lively music, it felt like stepping into a fiesta. It added an extra layer of enjoyment to my dining experience.

In conclusion, if you're in search of mouthwatering tacos with exceptional customer service, look no further than Roxy’s Tacos. Their fish tacos are simply divine and their birria queso taco is not to be missed. So put on your sombrero and head over to Roxy's - you won't be disappointed!

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

City Tacos

Highlights
Fantastic food
Friendly service
Variety of vegetarian options
Free street parking on Sundays
Wheelchair accessible seats and restaurant

Walking into City Tacos, I was immediately hit with the smell of sizzling meats and tantalizing spices. The atmosphere was buzzing with energy and excitement, making it clear that this place meant business when it came to delivering fantastic food.

As I perused the menu, I couldn't help but marvel at the variety of options available. From classic carne asada to inventive vegetarian creations, there was something for everyone. Yes, even those picky eaters who think tacos are only meant for meat lovers! The chefs at City Tacos have truly mastered the art of crafting unique and flavorful combinations that will leave your taste buds begging for more.

What truly set City Tacos apart from other establishments was their commitment to service. The staff members were not only knowledgeable about their menu but also genuinely friendly and attentive. They went above and beyond to ensure that every customer felt welcome and satisfied.

One thing that impressed me about City Tacos was their dedication to accessibility. With wheelchair accessible seating both inside and outside, they've made sure that everyone can enjoy their mouthwatering creations without any inconvenience.

Oh, did I mention parking? Yes! Free street parking on Sundays! It's like a little gift from taco heaven itself.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a taco experience that combines fantastic food, friendly service, and accessibility for all, then look no further than City Tacos in San Diego. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Papas & Tacos Mexican Food

Highlights
Great service
Extensive menu
Tasty veggie options
Clean atmosphere
Affordable prices

Let me start by saying that the service at Papas & Tacos is simply outstanding. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm smile and promptly seated. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable about their menu, offering helpful suggestions for those who might be indecisive (we've all been there).

Speaking of the menu, it's vast and filled with options to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you're craving traditional meat-filled tacos or opting for a lighter veggie option, Papas & Tacos has got you covered. And let me tell you, their veggie tacos are not an afterthought; they are bursting with flavors that will make even the most dedicated carnivore consider switching sides.

One thing that stood out to me was the cleanliness of the restaurant. The atmosphere was inviting and well-maintained, creating a pleasant dining experience. It's refreshing to enjoy your tacos without worrying about questionable hygiene (we've all had those nightmares).

Now let's talk prices! You'll be pleasantly surprised by how affordable Papas & Tacos is compared to many other San Diego eateries. It's like finding a unicorn in a taco truck! So go ahead and indulge in as many tacos as your heart desires without breaking the bank.

In conclusion, Papas & Tacos Mexican Food is a top contender when it comes to finding the best tacos in San Diego. With great service, an extensive menu featuring tasty veggie options, a clean atmosphere, and affordable prices, it's hard not to fall head over heels for this place. Don't just take my word for it though – go try it yourself and see why Papas & Tacos deserves its spot on any taco lover's bucket list!