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Guide to Encinitas

Burrito and Taco Spots

Made for those who measure the success of a meal by the quality of the tortilla and the depth of the salsa.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Crack Taco Shop image 1
Crack Taco Shop image 2
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Taco restaurant

Small space with limited indoor seating and clean, well-decorated design creates an energetic, welcoming vibe. Tacos and burritos arrive quickly, made with seed oil-free cooking using beef tallow and olive oil. Prices are on the higher side, reflecting large portions and quality ingredients.

Burritos come in huge sizes with fresh ingredients and fair prices. Breakfast burritos are not greasy and include options like tri tip and California styles that are very filling.

Tacos feature generous meat portions with flavorful seasoning and homemade-style tortillas. Options like the crack tri tip and battered fish tacos stand out for their taste and quick, hot service.

People are saying

"The salsas here balance heat and flavor so well."

"These breakfast burritos are huge and incredible."

"I thought the tacos here were the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Indoor seating is limited, so plan accordingly.

2

Prices for tacos start at $3.33 each.

3

A bean and cheese burrito costs $11.

02
Pavlos Tacos image 1
Taco restaurant

Colorful dรฉcor and picnic tables create a casual, lively setting with loud music adding energy. The menu offers authentic Mexican cuisine known for flavorful, original burritos and top-rated salsas. Locals frequent the spot for its consistent quality despite recent ownership and name changes.

Burritos here stay authentic and original with a focus on Carne asada and toasted edges that show attention to detail. Portions can be generous, sometimes enough for two meals.

Tacos here stand out for their authentic flavor and consistent quality. The fish tacos are especially notable, often priced at $2.50 on Tuesdays, making them both tasty and affordable.

People are saying

"I thought their burritos were original and authentic."

"I thought the salsa here was the best I had ever had."

"You have to try the fish tacos, they're delicious and a great deal."

Good to know

1

Parking is always easy at Pavlos Tacos.

2

The restaurant's name changed, but the menu and food remained the same.

3

Expect to pay around $30 for a veggie burrito and a California burrito without guacamole.

03
Los Tacos image 1
Taco restaurant

Taco restaurant offers fresh tortillas and an enormous variety of tacos and burritos, including vegan options and hot sauces. The space feels cozy with a relaxed, unpretentious vibe and a salsa bar featuring fresh limes, carrots, and radishes. It suits quick to-go orders and draws a crowd seeking authentic Mexican flavors.

Burritos come in large sizes like the king bean, enough for two to share. The surf and turf burrito stands out for its perfect flavor balance. Flour tortillas taste great and pair well with red hot and avocado salsas.

Tacos here come with fresh tortillas and meats like crispy, tender pastor and flavorful carnitas. Fish tacos stand out as extremely delicious, and the spicy Arbol sauce pairs well with Birra tacos.

People are saying

"I found the burritos here to be out of this world."

"The seafood tacos here are outstanding and delicious."

"I thought the tacos here were the best I'd ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Ceviche is only available on weekends.

2

The burrito called the 'Original' costs $11.55 plus tax.

3

They offer plenty of veggie and vegan options.

04
Agave Birrieria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican takeout spot with no dine-in option and fresh ingredients. Atmosphere is casual with good music volume and formerly had nice outdoor bench seating. Known for excellent birria tacos and flavorful dishes.

Burritos come in spicy chile verde and shrimp chipotle varieties that pack a punch. Options like quesabirria, chile relleno, fish, and carne asada offer a tasty, filling meal at a reasonable price.

Tacos here pack traditional, no-frills flavor bombs with a focus on birria and cabeza varieties. They come messy but are full of rich, tasty flavor that stands out.

People are saying

"You have to try their Birria; it's some of the best Mexican food I've had."

"I thought the chile verde burrito was the best I've ever had."

"The birria tacos here are delicious and some of the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Agave Birrieria is now just a takeout restaurant.

2

Parking is difficult due to the nearby gas station.

3

The burrito costs $7 for half and is filling.

05
Serranos Mexican food [ENCINITAS] image 1

Taco shop style space with vibrant colors and lively music creates an energetic atmosphere. Salsa bar offers a variety of mild options. Affordable prices and authentic Mexican dishes attract locals and visitors alike.

Huge burritos come with giant portions and prices under $10. Options include a Moonlight rolled taco burrito, jalapeno carnitas, chile relleno, and customizable breakfast combos.

Tacos cost only $1 or $1.69, making them very inexpensive. Options include Al Pastor, fish, and Birria tacos, with the Al Pastor and fish tacos standing out for their flavor and value.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and bursting with flavor."

"This burrito is packed with flavor and fresh ingredients."

"I thought the tacos al pastor and fish were really good."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost $1 each, making them very affordable.

2

Daily specials are offered, enhancing the menu variety.

3

No online pickup for $1.69 tacos; must order in person.

06
Mexico Viejo Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with an authentic atmosphere and a salsa bar featuring multiple options. Menu includes variety of dishes, with notable burritos and tacos standing out for quality.

Burritos come wrapped in a flour tortilla with minimal meat inside. Options include chicken, carne asada, and breakfast burritos made to order, priced around $13.25.

Soft pollo asada tacos stand out with excellent flavor. Beans and tacos here surpass other options tried in the area.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and served in generous portions."

"I found the Mexican Food burritos to be awesome."

"I found the burritos here to be awesome."

Good to know

1

The restaurant features a salsa bar with multiple options for guests.

2

A diverse menu offers various authentic Mexican dishes.

3

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

07
Roberto's Mexican Food - Leucadia image 1

Small Mexican restaurant offers quiet, secluded atmosphere with outdoor seating featuring umbrella tables. The vibe stays tranquil and clean, attracting those seeking a relaxed meal near the beach. A salsa bar adds a distinctive touch to the dining experience.

Carne asada and shrimp burritos stand out for their flavor and quality. Breakfast burritos come loaded with beans, rice, and hash browns, prepared promptly and consistently satisfying.

Rolled tacos come with fresh guacamole and no mayo or sour cream. Fish tacos taste really fresh. Shredded beef and chicken tacos feature a spicy red sauce that stands out.

People are saying

"I loved the carne asada and Cali burritos here."

"I found the salsa to be delicious and perfectly balanced."

"I thought this was the best taco shop in San Diego."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 9:00 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

There is limited outdoor seating available, so arrive early.

3

You can order ahead via DoorDash or call in to avoid waiting.

08
Raul's Shack Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with beach-town energy and laid-back vibe offers outdoor seating near the ocean. The place serves affordable, authentic Mexican food with a wide variety of fresh salsas and sauces. It feels down-to-earth and family-owned, attracting locals looking for quality and value.

Burritos feature tender meat and a perfect mix of ingredients. Options like the breakfast burrito and California burrito stand out for their flavor and consistency.

Loaded crispy beef tacos stand out with their bold flavor and crunch. The fish tacos are large, crispy, and fresh, while the meat rolled tacos offer tender, high-quality fillings like pork and adobada. Salsa and taco sauce complement the tacos well.

People are saying

"I found the cheapest and most delicious burrito I could find."

"The homemade salsa here is so tasty and spicy."

"I thought the carne asada street tacos were amazing."

Good to know

1

There is limited indoor and outdoor seating available.

2

Parking can be found nearby, but it may take some time.

3

The menu offers a wide variety of options from breakfast to dinner.

09
Fish 101 image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood restaurant with large ocean-facing windows offers a fast casual vibe and bright, tight seating that creates a lively, somewhat noisy atmosphere. The menu emphasizes fresh fish dishes with a slight Mexican influence, attracting those seeking casual, family-style dining near the water.

Burritos come massive and filling with classic Baja flavors and good seasoning. Options like the yellowtail and Baja Fried Shrimp burritos stand out for their freshness and size.

Fish tacos stand out with a hint of cinnamon in the batter adding a unique twist. Options include fried and not fried fish tacos, all served fresh with great sauces and consistent quality.

People are saying

"The seafood portions here are massive and filling."

"This massive burrito is packed with classic Baja flavors."

"You have to try the fish tacos; they're tender and juicy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during peak times to ensure a seat.

2

Oysters cost $3.00 at the restaurant, not $1.25 as listed online.

3

Expect limited seating; arrive early to avoid long waits.

10
Las Olas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open-air Mexican restaurant offers beachfront views and casual patio seating with an open salsa bar. Atmosphere ranges from lively and loud to relaxed depending on seating and time. Popular for margarita flights and standout dishes like carne asada nachos and fish tacos.

Chile Relleno and shrimp burritos stand out for their flavor and quality. Fish and shrimp options come in well-portioned servings that taste great.

Fish tacos stand out with a lunch special and a platter option. Potato tacos offer a yummy alternative. Nachos and bean dip complement the taco selection well.

People are saying

"The nachos here are crispy, generously loaded, and packed with flavor."

"I loved the potato tacos; they were so yummy."

"The fish and shrimp burritos were delicious and well-portioned."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with great drink specials.

2

Table service is now available during happy hour.

3

Parking can be challenging on weekends due to beachgoers.

11
Juanitas Taco Shop image 1
Taco restaurant

Taco shop with spacious seating including outdoor tables offers an authentic Mexican vibe that feels unchanged for decades. Atmosphere varies from cool and popular to occasionally noisy and chaotic. Known for generous portions and reasonably priced tacos and burritos.

Burritos here stand out for their surf and turf and carne asada options, both praised for flavor and quality. The breakfast burritos feature a soft but toasty tortilla with a balanced mix of ingredients.

Fish tacos stand out with generous portions of meat, guacamole, and pico de gallo. Carne asada and California burritos come in large sizes and offer solid value with tasty, consistent flavors.

People are saying

"I thought their carnitas burrito was amazing and tasty."

"The carne asada here is incredibly flavorful and spicy."

"I loved the fish tacos; they were the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in front, on the side, and in the back.

2

Expect an extra 4% fee for credit card payments.

3

The burrito is priced about $3-4 higher than average.

12
Lourdes Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open front wall creates an outdoor feel with an amazing view near the beach. Atmosphere stays relaxed and low-key with a calm, open vibe. Frequented by those seeking generous portions of Mexican food at affordable prices.

Burritos here come with a rich flavor and a variety of fillings like carnitas, steak ranchero, carne asada, and veggie options. A salsa bar and chips accompany the burritos, enhancing the meal experience.

Fish tacos stand out with unique flavor and a fried, crispy texture. Carne asada tacos come with onions and cilantro, paired well with rice and beans.

People are saying

"I loved the burritos and the salsa bar here."

"I found the fish tacos incredibly delicious and memorable."

"I thought the chicken soup was excellent and delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays offer special deals on tacos.

2

The restaurant is a 5-7 minute walk from San Elijo campground.

3

The prices are reasonable considering the large portions.

13
Cancun Mexican & Seafood image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a new outdoor patio offers quick, easy, and delicious food featuring spicy salsas and top-rated tacos. Atmosphere feels simple and unassuming, suitable for to-go or dine-in. Prices tend to be on the higher side, but the food quality stands out in the area.

Huge burritos stand out, especially the surf and turf and shrimp options. Breakfast burritos and carnitas burritos come highly recommended for their delicious flavors.

Tacos come in shredded beef, grilled fish, and fried fish varieties, all packed with flavor. The menu also features a standout adobada taco alongside other Mexican dishes.

People are saying

"I thought this place had the best breakfast burrito."

"I found the food here to be delicious and well prepared."

"I thought their tacos were the best in town."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the shared lot with a gas station.

2

The restaurant is suitable for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

3

To-go or carry-out orders are accepted.

14
Kotija Jr. Taco Shop image 1
Taco restaurant

Cozy taco restaurant with outdoor patio seating overlooking a busy highway and park, offering open salsa bar and TVs in every room. Atmosphere is relaxed and sleepy, suited for casual dining and people watching. Known for excellent fish tacos and generous portions, especially seafood options.

Fish burritos stand out with generous portions and fresh meat full of juices. Breakfast burritos called Supers offer a delicious start while chicken, cheese, and bean burritos bring great flavor and variety.

Fish tacos stand out with battered fish and fresh toppings like lettuce and tomatoes. Al pastor and pollo asado tacos also feature bold flavors and get consistent praise.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos were the best Mexican food around."

"I loved the fish tacos and salsas with outdoor seating."

"I thought the fish tacos were the best around."

Good to know

1

Parking is available both inside and outside, which is rare in beach cities.

2

Vegan options are available on the menu.

3

The restaurant offers a good variety of items that some other Mexican places do not have.

15
La Especial Norte image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with colorful murals and roomy booths offers a family-style atmosphere that feels cozy and relaxed. Outdoor seating reflects classic California beach vibes, creating a chill and fun environment. Cold beers and traditional margaritas complement authentic dishes like tortilla soup and chicken soup.

Carne asada burrito stands out with warm, fresh, and balanced flavors. Fish and shrimp burritos offer customizable options and solid taste. Chile relleno burrito also delivers a notable choice.

Fish tacos stand out with cabbage and avocado toppings. Seafood options like fish burritos and sides such as guacamole complement the tacos well.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food, especially the tortilla soup, was the best I ever had."

"I loved the fish tacos with extra cabbage slaw."

"I found the carne asada burrito to be the best, full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in front of the restaurant and across the street.

2

The restaurant is super busy during lunch hours on any day of the week.

3

Expect large portions that provide good value for the price.

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Encinitas, California

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