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Encinitas' best

Taco and salsa spots

A taco is only as good as the salsa that brings the heat and acidity to every bite.

Based on 616 Opinions
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01
Serranos Mexican food [ENCINITAS] image 1
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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.

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.

A salsa bar offers a variety of options with spicy and flavorful choices. The lemon cilantro salsa stands out as a notable option enjoyed with dishes like the Surf & Turf Burrito.

People are saying

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

"You've got to try their salsa bar with all the different options."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost $1 each, making them very affordable.

2

Daily specials are offered, enhancing the menu variety.

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

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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.

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.

A huge selection of fresh salsas and sauces comes with both red and green options that are spicy and flavorful. The green salsa pairs well with fish tacos and the homemade style stands out.

People are saying

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

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

Good to know

1

There is limited indoor and outdoor seating available.

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

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

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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.

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.

Salsas come in red hot and avocado varieties that pair well with burritos. Sampling every salsa feels thoughtful and eco-conscious, complemented by cilantro sour cream.

People are saying

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

"The burritos here are huge and flavorful with great salsa."

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.

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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.

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.

Salsas range from mild to hot with a notable mango habanero flavor. They offer a spicy and unique taste different from typical local options.

People are saying

"The salsas here are amazing, ranging from mild to hot."

"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.

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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.

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.

Salsas here stand out with wonderful spicy red and green options. The red salsa shines as a favorite, adding a unique kick that sets dishes apart.

People are saying

"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.

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Small taco shop offers outdoor seating with gas fireplaces and a dog-friendly patio. Atmosphere stays laid back and fun, featuring a DJ and fire pits that create a lively yet relaxed vibe. Salsa bar adds a fresh, generous touch to the experience.

Tacos here stand out for their unique and inventive flavors, including favorites like the Mexicali, shrimp, and portobello mushroom and zucchini tacos. The menu features delicious street tacos and options like Elote Asado, all served with very fast service.

Freshness stands out with every salsa option. A generous salsa bar offers extras like chunks of avocado in green salsa and fresh cilantro, making tacos and chips more flavorful.

People are saying

"The Mexicali taco here is amazing and super fresh."

"The salsa bar had a nice selection of mango, red, and green salsas."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday at City Tacos includes $2.50 Mexican beer and 10% off food.

2

City Tacos offers vegan options alongside a variety of tacos.

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Parking is convenient and generally available near City Tacos.

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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.

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.

A variety of salsas are available at the salsa bar, offering options from mild to spicy. The salsa pairs well with chips and complements dishes like the Fire Cali burrito.

People are saying

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

"The salsa bar had a great variety of salsas."

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.

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Spacious Mexican restaurant with padded seating and a huge bar offers a family-friendly atmosphere with good music at a comfortable volume. Outdoor patio provides dog-friendly seating and a relaxed vibe. The space combines impeccable decor with a casual, inviting energy.

Tacos come with bold flavors like blackened chicken and birria. Fish tacos and short ribs offer rich taste alongside options like beauty tacos and aguachilias.

Chips come with a large portion of salsa that costs extra but feels worth it. Salsa options include salsa macha for added heat and a table-side made guacamole that pairs well with the chips.

People are saying

"The fish tacos were crispy, fresh, and light."

"The salsa here is excellent and perfect."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 5 pm with great deals on food and drinks.

2

The happy hour food menu includes items priced around $10 to $12.

3

There are plenty of vegan options available on the menu.

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Taco shop vibe with quiet atmosphere and worn appearance creates a casual setting. Salsa bar offers a variety of well-regarded salsas, enhancing the experience. Affordable prices and easy parking attract a steady local crowd.

Salsas here have a perfect taste with a standout roasted salsa that many consider exceptional. A salsa bar offers a variety of options that complement dishes like nopales, tacos, and enchiladas.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

There is easy parking available near the restaurant.

2

The restaurant does not offer delivery service.

3

Burritos start at $4.50, with large portions providing good value.

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Encinitas, California

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