Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in California

Affordable shrimp taco spots

Made for those who hunt for high-quality shrimp tacos that respect a modest budget.

Based on 948 Opinions
+945
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Surf Up Chicken image 1
Surf Up Chicken image 2
Surf Up Chicken image 3
View all
Restaurant

Small space with about seven tables and some outdoor seating offers a clean, bright, and relaxed atmosphere. A sauce bar with various dips adds to the casual dining experience. The vibe is cozy and inviting, suited for quick, tasty lunches with a friendly feel.

Shrimp tacos come with plenty of shrimp and fresh, full flavor. Fried and crispy versions stand out as delicious and often reordered.

Prices stay consistently very affordable across the menu. Food options like Surf Up Chicken combine delicious taste with budget-friendly costs.

People are saying

"The shrimp here is perfectly cooked and delicious."

"You can get lunch for around $10, it's so affordable."

"The shrimp tacos are fresh and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

The prices at Surf Up Chicken are very affordable.

2

The dining area and restroom are nice and clean.

3

It gets busy during lunch hour, especially on weekdays.

02
Contodo Fresh Mexican Eats image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant offers clean interior and spacious patio seating with a pleasant outdoor vibe. Atmosphere stays cool and relaxed with good music and a comfortable setting. It attracts those looking for a casual spot to enjoy fresh, well-regarded tacos and burritos.

Shrimp tacos come with grilled shrimp and a spicy kick. They pair well with poblano flavors and stand out alongside other favorites like fish tacos and carne asada mulitas.

Prices stay affordable with quick service. Food, especially the Tacos, offers good value.

People are saying

"The carnitas burrito was excellent and very flavorful."

"The shrimp tacos here are amazing and the flavor is on point."

"I found the food to be really good and affordable."

Good to know

1

$1.99 fish taco special is available, making it a great deal.

2

The taco shop has a drive-thru for convenient ordering.

3

Expect reasonable prices and good portion sizes.

03
Charli's Landing image 1

Outdoor seating overlooks a bayfront marina with unbeatable views of boats and the harbor. Atmosphere stays relaxed and quiet with no loud music, inviting casual dining and sunbathing. Patio welcomes dogs and offers simple games like connect 4, creating a friendly, laid-back vibe.

Shrimp tacos come with generous portions and are perfectly seasoned for an explosion of flavors. They arrive in soft tortillas and can be grilled, matching the quality of the fish tacos.

Meals come at more than affordable prices, making it a spot for tasty food without stretching the budget. The overall cost stays low while keeping flavors strong.

People are saying

"These fish tacos are phenomenal, fresh, and juicy."

"These shrimp tacos are amazing and the best I've ever had."

"I found this to be the most tasty and affordable meal I had."

Good to know

1

Outdoor seating is available, providing great views of the marina.

2

The eatery has a free parking lot for customers.

3

You can order from a QR code at the table to skip the line.

04
TACO FINO EXPRESS image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, clean, and spacious Mexican restaurant with a welcoming, family-run vibe. Atmosphere feels like eating at a friend's place, enhanced by live music and warm smiles. Known for spicy tacos, generous portions, and affordable prices that attract both quick bites and full meals.

Shrimp tacos come in a larger size than regular tacos, making them a filling option. The shrimp taco fino stands out for its size and flavor, matching well with sides like fino fries and quesadillas.

Prices stay consistently affordable here, making it a solid choice for those who want delicious food without spending much. Tacos come at a budget-friendly rate.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was among the best I had in a long time."

"I found the shrimp tacos incredible; I'd eat twenty!"

"I found the prices to be very affordable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a student menu with discounted options.

2

Kids’ quesadillas and burritos are available, though not listed on the menu.

3

Prices are affordable, making it a great choice for budget-conscious diners.

05
Bubu's Restaurant image 1

Small, cozy space with a homemade personal touch and comfortable chairs creates a welcoming, inviting atmosphere. The vibe feels like being in a grandmother's kitchen, with a lively yet relaxing energy. It stands out for its customizable dishes and a sense of being a hidden gem.

Fried shrimp tacos come with Bubu salsa that adds a unique kick. The shrimp is crispy and the flavor is consistently muy rico.

Prices stay affordable with large portions. The menu offers a diverse mix of Mexican and American dishes at reasonable costs.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and beautiful."

"The portions are large and the price is affordable."

"These shrimp tacos are so delicious, I'm ruined for anywhere else."

Good to know

1

Customers should bring cash to avoid the card fee.

2

Bubu's Restaurant offers the option to customize dishes.

3

The portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

06
California Fish Grill image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers a casual, friendly atmosphere with quick service and mostly metal seating. The space feels comfortable and welcoming, often crowded but relaxed enough for family and friends. Known for affordable, fresh seafood, it stands out for quality dishes like crispy fish sandwiches and flavorful tacos.

Cajun shrimp tacos come with miso slaw and deliver a super yummy flavor. The shrimp is battered and cooked well, matching the quality of the fish tacos.

Fresh, flavorful seafood dishes come at affordable prices here. Meals are both healthy and budget-friendly.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and fresh."

"I found the seafood dishes here to be fresh, flavorful, and affordable."

"The Cajun Shrimp Tacos were on point."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features special deals on tacos every Tuesday.

2

California Fish Grill does not accept cash payments; only cards and mobile payments.

3

There are plenty of free parking spaces available nearby.

07
Baja King Fish Tacos image 1
Taco restaurant

Unassuming taco spot with a lively atmosphere fueled by loud Spanish music and a family-friendly vibe. The place often gets packed during lunch, offering authentic Baja-style fish and shrimp tacos that stand out for their flavor and quality.

Shrimp tacos come with fresh, expertly seasoned shrimp and a red sauce that adds a nice kick. They stay fully packed and delicious whether from the food truck or the current spot.

Lunch specials and daily menu options offer very affordable choices. The food tastes super delicious while staying budget-friendly.

People are saying

"I found the shrimp tacos to be extremely good and flavorful."

"I found the fish burrito to be great with lots of fish."

"I found the food and lunch specials to be really affordable."

Good to know

1

The tacos are only $3 each, making them an affordable option.

2

Taco Tuesdays offer a special deal on fish tacos.

3

The restaurant gets crowded during lunch hours, so arrive early.

08
Johnny Mañanas Ocean Beach image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers colorful storefront and outdoor seating with views of the pier. Atmosphere shifts from quiet early afternoons to a lively vibe later, enhanced by Mexican music and a self-serve salsa bar. Affordable drinks include $5 margaritas and draft beers, complementing well-regarded tacos and burritos.

Shrimp tacos deliver fresh, flavorful bites that stand out. They pair well with steak for a naughty treat and keep people coming back for more.

Crispy fish tacos come at an extremely affordable price. Lunch options are quick, tasty, and budget-friendly. Draft beer costs just $3, making the overall experience very affordable.

People are saying

"The staff here are super friendly and attentive."

"I can't stop ordering these phenomenal shrimp tacos."

"You can't beat the crispy fish tacos for such an affordable price."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, enjoy $2.50 street tacos and two for $5 specials.

2

Happy hour features $3 pints and $6 margaritas from 2 to 6 PM and all day on weekends.

3

Outdoor seating is available for dogs.

09
Guac Daddy Cantina- West Hollywood image 1

Outdoor-only seating creates a cozy patio with market lights and heat lamps enhancing a beachside vibe. Youthful energy fills the space with vibey music setting a fun and welcoming atmosphere. The spot blends fast casual dining with a relaxed, stylish environment perfect for casual hangouts.

Grilled shrimp tacos come with bold flavors and a fresh taste. They pair well with strawberry guava lemonade for a balanced meal.

Fresh, authentic Mexican food comes with affordable prices and good portion sizes. The spot balances quality and quantity well in a fast casual setting.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the burritos, is packed with fresh ingredients."

"The food here is delicious and surprisingly affordable."

"The staff here is so friendly and helpful with the Shrimp Tacos."

Good to know

1

Guac Daddy Cantina closes at 10pm on Sunday.

2

The restaurant has outdoor seating only.

3

Guac Daddy has a huge patio outside and is dog friendly.

10
LA PUREPECHA COCINA MEXICANA image 1

Small Mexican restaurant with spartan interiors and paper plate service offers a super casual and family-friendly vibe. Background music features Mexican tunes while TVs show local sports and events. The atmosphere feels welcoming but leans toward quick dining rather than lingering.

Shrimp tacos feature scratch made corn tortillas and are cooked excellently with a chipotle flavor that stands out.

Prices stay consistently very affordable across visits. The cost offers clear value without stretching budgets.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is oozing with flavor and moisture."

"I found the best shrimp tacos I've had in a long time."

"I found the prices to be very affordable."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers a 1 plus 1 deal on tacos.

2

Specials are available Monday through Friday with $2 off select items.

3

Street parking is available, but can be hard to find.

11
Taqui Taqui image 1
Restaurant

Small, clean space with comfortable seating and bright, warm decor creates a welcoming atmosphere. Vibrant energy fills the room, enhanced by a Spanish rock playlist that sets a lively tone. The vibe balances casual dining with a sense of care and attention to detail.

Grilled shrimp tacos come with fresh slaw, cream sauce, tomatoes, onions, and guacamole. The tacos taste fresh and authentic with a good balance of flavors.

Prices stay consistently affordable across the menu. Tacos and other dishes come at a very inexpensive rate, making it easy to enjoy a meal without spending much.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, full of flavor and always fresh."

"I loved the fresh, authentic, and tasty shrimp tacos."

"I found the prices to be really affordable."

Good to know

1

First-time customers receive a complimentary drink.

2

They have weekly specials.

12
Baja California Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Tiny Mexican restaurant with a hole-in-the-wall vibe and simple, rustic decor. Atmosphere stays chill and casual with jazz music playing and a bustling, warm energy. Outdoor seating and a small salsa bar add to the informal, authentic feel.

Shrimp tacos come with a hard shell option that stands out as phenomenal. The tacos have a Baja California-style flavor that recalls classic fish and shrimp tacos from Rosarito and Ensenada.

Tacos come at a very affordable price with good quality food. Carne asada tacos are inexpensive on Tuesdays and the meals are fast and tasty.

People are saying

"These fish tacos are among the best I've ever eaten."

"The ceviche here is so fresh and citrusy."

"These shrimp tacos are to die for."

Good to know

1

On Wednesdays, fish tacos cost $1.50 each.

2

Taco Tuesday features asada tacos for $1.49.

3

Parking at Baja California Tacos is easy and free.

13
Best Fish Taco in Ensenada image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a bare-bones setup with outdoor patio seating that feels like a vintage Los Angeles vibe. The atmosphere stays chill and lively, with a self-serve salsa bar adding customization to the experience.

Shrimp tacos come freshly cooked with fresh salsa, crema, and cabbage on top. They stand out as phenomenal and very good, matching well with fish and potato tacos.

Simple, delicious fish tacos come at affordable prices here. The tacos offer great value without sacrificing flavor.

People are saying

"You have to try the fish tacos; they're so fresh and crispy."

"I thought the shrimp tacos were the best I've had."

"I found the fish tacos delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

Each taco costs between $3.50 and $4.50, and drinks are only a dollar each.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, so you can bring your own drinks.

3

Comedy night occurs on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month.

14
Polas Mariscos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a lively vibe and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Frequented for fresh seafood and spicy micheladas, it draws crowds with unique dishes and generous portions. Interior can feel hot and stuffy during busy times.

Fried shrimp tacos come on corn tortillas that are a bit flimsy but tasty. The shrimp tacos rank among the best fish and shrimp tacos around, served alongside ceviche and menudo.

Prices stay consistently affordable here. This spot ranks among the more budget-friendly mariscos options available.

People are saying

"I found the food to be fresh and delicious."

"I thought the fried shrimp tacos on corn tortillas were awesome."

"I thought the prices were very affordable."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is available in a mini mall lot with other stores.

3

The restaurant has a small dining area, so plan accordingly.

15
Mr. Pulpo Sea Food image 1

Seafood restaurant occupies a renovated dive bar with a quiet, chill atmosphere and small, comfortable vibe. It serves fresh, delicious tacos and ceviche with affordable prices and generous portions. The space feels clean and welcoming, focusing on simple, tasty dishes without alcohol service yet.

Shrimp tacos come with a spicy kick and pair well with fish tacos and shrimp tostadas. The aguachile adds a fresh, tangy contrast to the seafood flavors.

Seafood dishes come at very inexpensive prices here. The overall menu is known for being affordable without sacrificing variety.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

"I found the shrimp tacos to be delicious."

"The seafood here is so affordable."

Good to know

1

Fish tacos cost $2 on Taco Tuesday.

2

Parking is available in the back of the restaurant.

3

The facility is very clean and well-maintained.

16
Sportsmen's Seafoods image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers epic bay views with plenty of outdoor seating by the docks and boats. Atmosphere feels unpretentious and cozy, attracting those looking for a casual spot to enjoy fresh seafood and a beer. Indoor space is small, but the focus stays on the harbor setting and relaxed vibe.

Shrimp tacos stand out with fresh, flavorful shrimp and a satisfying mix of textures. The Halibut and Shrimp tacos offer a tasty twist alongside the classic shrimp option.

Fresh seafood and affordable prices stand out here. The spot offers inexpensive meals, including affordable wine and casual bites with good value.

People are saying

"The shrimp tacos here are the best, seriously bomb."

"These shrimp tacos are so fresh and delicious, the best I've had."

"I found the food to be delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

Parking is available, but can be challenging during busy times.

2

Prices are reasonable, with fish tacos costing around $15.

3

The seafood is fresh and often sushi-grade.

17
LOQUI image 1
Mexican restaurant

Dining space combines industrial design with a Mexico City vibe and gorgeous decor. Atmosphere feels cool and lively, with a bar setting that adds energy. Guests enjoy authentic Mexican flavors paired with a stylish, modern environment.

Shrimp tacos come loaded with spicy garlic shrimp and strong flavors. Some versions are very spicy, while others balance heat with rice and beans on the side.

Food comes at affordable prices without sacrificing freshness or quality. Expect top-notch quality that stays easy on the wallet.

People are saying

"The flour tortillas are handmade in-house and taste amazing."

"I loved the shrimp tacos, they were loaded with shrimp and full of amazing flavor."

"It's affordable and the ingredients are so fresh."

Good to know

1

Parking is free, but you must scan a QR code and enter your license plate number.

2

Validated parking is available for customers who dine in.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is not.

18
La Fiesta Brava image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy Mexican restaurant with home-style decor and authentic Hispanic ambiance featuring background music and cultural decorations. Offers indoor and outdoor seating in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Complimentary chips, salsa, and gum accompany meals, enhancing the casual dining experience.

Shrimp tacos come with fresh, tasty shrimp and stand out for their outstanding flavor. They pair well with fish tacos and other Mexican dishes for a solid meal.

Prices stay consistently inexpensive with fast service. Expect authentic Mexican cuisine without a high cost.

People are saying

"The food here is really tasty and arrived quickly."

"I thought the prices here were inexpensive and the cuisine was authentic."

"You can't skip the shrimp tacos; they're the freshest I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

La Fiesta Brava is BYOB, so bring your own alcoholic beverages.

2

There are no cork fees for bringing your own drinks.

3

The restaurant prefers cash payments.

19
Mike Hess Brewing - Seaport Village image 1

Brewpub offers outdoor patio seating with incredible bay views and an authentic feel. Atmosphere stays relaxed and lively, with dog-friendly spaces and occasional loud music from nearby pier speakers. Visitors enjoy excellent beer selections and highly praised tacos while unwinding by the water.

Crispy and spicy shrimp tacos stand out with bold flavors and a satisfying crunch. Fried fish and shrimp tacos come with fresh ingredients and a delicious mix of textures.

Tacos cost between $4 and $5 each and come in generous portions. Prices stay affordable even in a pricey downtown area.

People are saying

"The beer has great views of the harbor."

"I thought the spicy shrimp tacos were fantastic and perfectly balanced."

"The tacos are delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

They offer a 10% discount on Taco Tuesdays.

3

Military discounts are available on all items.

20
Tacos Ensenada image 1
Taco restaurant

Mexican taqueria with coastal influence offers a casual atmosphere and ample seating in a house-like interior. The vibe is lively on Taco Tuesday and lunchtime, drawing crowds with flavorful tacos. A unique salsa bar adds to the experience.

Shrimp tacos come with fresh ingredients and a habanero sauce that adds a spicy kick. The combo plate includes shrimp and fish tacos with rice and frijoles, making for a solid meal.

Fish tacos come at a very low price and taste good. The menu offers quick, inexpensive Mexican food with decent quality and overall affordable prices.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really delicious."

"I found the fish tacos here to be the best I've ever had."

"I thought the shrimp tacos were the best I had."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays offer fish tacos at 2 for $3.50.

2

Taco Thursdays feature specials on other tacos.

3

Expect long lines during dinner and lunchtime.

21
Tacos El Tucan SF image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, colorful Mexican restaurant with vibrant outdoor seating and a salsa bar. Atmosphere feels chill and welcoming, capturing Tijuana street food culture. Popular spot for late-night dining with a lively, friendly vibe.

Shrimp tacos feature fresh, flavorful shrimp with a tasty seasoning. They stand out alongside other popular items like quesabirria and adobada tacos.

Prices stay consistently super affordable compared to other spots in the city. This place offers very affordable options without cutting corners.

People are saying

"The birria tacos here are insanely good."

"I found the shrimp tacos to be excellent and delicious."

"I found the prices here to be super affordable."

Good to know

1

Most tacos cost $3.50, which is reasonable for the area.

2

Expect a wait during busy dinner hours, especially on weekends.

3

Parking can be tough to access or find near the restaurant.

22
Miches De La Baja image 1
Fast food restaurant

Small dining room features artistic wall paintings and bright, clean beach vibe with lively music mix. Atmosphere feels fun and warm, creating an enjoyable place to eat. Popular for affordable, tasty fish tacos that stand out in quality and size.

Shrimp tacos come with original breaded shrimp that taste fresh and clean. They pair well with grilled fish options and stand out for their excellent flavor.

Pricing stays consistently affordable, with fish tacos costing less than $3. This spot offers amazing value compared to others.

People are saying

"These fish tacos are BOMB, so delicious and flavorful!"

"The shrimp tacos here are amazingly tasty and fresh."

"The fish tacos are delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

The price of fish tacos is less than $3, making them very affordable.

2

Salsa is not included with tacos and must be requested separately.

3

Expect limited seating during busy times, especially outdoors.

23
Johnny Mañana's image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a festive patio with heated outdoor seating and a colorful salsa bar. The vibe is hip and fun, with music that supports conversation without shouting. Margaritas stand out as well-balanced and flavorful.

Shrimp tacos feature well-seasoned, juicy shrimp that stand out as the main attraction. They arrive promptly and pair well with margaritas for a satisfying combo.

Prices stay consistently affordable while food remains fresh and high-quality. Chicken tacos and other Mexican dishes offer good value without sacrificing taste.

People are saying

"These fish tacos are delicious and surprisingly big."

"I found the food here to be fresh and affordable."

"I found the shrimp tacos to be delicious and juicy."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features street tacos for $2.50 each.

2

Happy hour offers drink specials with discounted prices.

3

Wine glass Wednesdays feature $5 glasses of wine.

24
Kiko's Place restaurant image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood restaurant with colorful decor and a lively atmosphere marked by loud music and street activity. Offers generous portions of highly praised fish tacos and ceviche at affordable prices. Seating is limited and can be uncomfortable due to shaky tables and crowded space.

Shrimp tacos come with scrumptious seafood flavors and appear in deals alongside fish tacos. They pair well with seafood soup for a full meal.

Prices stay very affordable and often surprisingly inexpensive. Food offers good value without stretching the budget.

People are saying

"The fish tacos here are amazingly delicious and wonderful."

"The ceviche here is super fresh and tasty."

"I enjoyed the scrumptious shrimp tacos."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers 3 large fish tacos for $9.99.

2

Daily specials include 2 fish tacos and a Tecate beer at a great price.

3

Prices are lower than those in the nearby Gaslamp area.

25
Hole Mole image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, quaint space with outdoor umbrella seating and an interior that mimics a weathered Ensenada fish market. Atmosphere feels casual and easy-going with loud music and a fun vibe. Known for Ensenada style fish and shrimp tacos and a mix of fast food and taqueria offerings.

Breaded shrimp stands out in the tacos here, especially in the Enseada Shrimp Tacos. Both shrimp and fish tacos offer a crispy texture and solid flavor.

Tacos come at a very affordable price, with options like 3 tacos for $9. Meals such as 2 crunchy tacos with rice, beans, chips, and a drink offer good value for lunch.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and fresh."

"The tacos here are affordable, especially for lunch."

"I thought the shrimp tacos were some of the best I had."

Good to know

1

Prices are affordable, with 3 tacos for $9.

2

Taco Tuesday offers even better prices.

3

The restaurant has cleanliness issues, with dirty tables and floors.

26
Tacos El Goloso image 1
Taco restaurant

Classic hole-in-the-wall taco spot with tight counter seating and a few outdoor tables shaded by umbrellas. The vibe stays low key with live music adding to a relaxed beach atmosphere. It draws a steady crowd looking for affordable, high-quality tacos near the ocean.

Shrimp tacos offer very flavorful taste and stand out alongside fish and birria tacos. They attract visits for their worth the drive quality, though availability varies at different spots.

Inexpensive prices make this spot stand out. Everything feels super affordable without cutting corners.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is the best I've had anywhere."

"The birria tacos here are amazing and affordable."

"I found the shrimp tacos really flavorful."

Good to know

1

The price of $11.50 for the nachos is very affordable.

2

Limited indoor seating means you may need to sit outside or take food to go.

3

Parking can be easy to find depending on the time of day.

27
Lopez Taqueria 2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating on a sunny patio creates a casual, breezy atmosphere with a welcoming, family-like vibe. Indoor space feels small and sparse, while the quiet street adds to the calm setting. The place offers a wide variety of authentic Mexican food in a clean environment.

Shrimp tacos come with fresh shrimp and have no fishy smell or taste. Cheese adds a nice touch that pulls the flavors together, making them tasty and well balanced.

Beers in the fridge come at affordable prices. The menu features inexpensive food options throughout.

People are saying

"The lengua tacos here are tender and flavorful."

"I enjoyed the inexpensive food and affordable prices."

"The shrimp tacos here are great, with no fishy taste."

Good to know

1

Ordering and paying happens before sitting down; no reservations needed.

2

The restaurant offers all-day breakfast options.

3

There is plenty of seating available both inside and outside.

Discover more

California

Area guide
Loading Map...