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Taco spots in Encinitas

Tacos that hold their own without needing a mountain of toppings to hide a lack of substance.

Based on 628 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Beach wolf image 1
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Takeout Restaurant

Enjoy gourmet tacos like Potato Curry with fresh, vegan-friendly options. Relax on dog-friendly picnic tables right on a clean, uncrowded beach with ocean views. Casual, shaded seating makes it perfect for a laid-back meal by the sea.

Potato Curry Tacos stand out with their exceptional flavor and delicious taste. Staff offer vegan options like avocado instead of queso blanco without needing to ask.

People are saying

"These tacos are so flavorful and delicious."

"Their avocado toast comes with smoked salmon or garden options."

"The American food, especially the hot dog, is the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Beach Wolf operates until 7 PM daily.

2

There is free parking available above the beach.

3

They refill water bottles free of charge if you buy one.

02
Puntamar image 1
Mexican restaurant

Indoor-outdoor space with vibrant decor creates a lively, beachy vibe. Tacos shine with fresh mahi-mahi and bold flavors. Live DJ and mariachi add energy, while a quiet patio suits family celebrations perfectly.

Tacos here stand out for their super fresh mahi-mahi and bold flavors. The Tuesday special includes a variety of dishes like ceviche, pizza birria, and enchiladas mole, with the tacos being a highlight.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican seafood food here to be authentic and top-notch."

"The ceviche here has the perfect kick."

"I loved the fish tacos because they were so flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for special events.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of menu options, including prefixed menus and ร  la carte.

03
Crack Taco Shop image 1
Taco restaurant

Small space offers energetic vibe with clean design and quick service. Tacos shine with generous meat portions and homemade tortillas, especially the crack tri tip. Prices are higher but reflect quality ingredients and large portions.

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.

04
Serranos Mexican food [ENCINITAS] image 1

Vibrant colors and lively music create an energetic vibe. Tacos like Al Pastor and fish shine with bold flavors at just $1 or $1.69. Affordable prices and a salsa bar with mild options make it a favorite for authentic Mexican eats.

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.

05
Agave Birrieria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican takeout spot shines with excellent birria tacos and fresh ingredients. Casual vibe with good music sets a relaxed tone. Tacos deliver rich, tasty flavor that stands out despite being messy.

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.

06
Los Tacos image 1
Taco restaurant

Fresh tortillas and crispy pastor make tacos a standout here. Cozy space with a salsa bar adds to the relaxed vibe. Vegan options and authentic Mexican flavors cater to all tastes.

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.

07
Cocina De Barrio image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican spot shines with bold flavors in tacos like blackened chicken and birria. Family-friendly vibe pairs well with a huge bar and comfy padded seating. Outdoor patio offers dog-friendly seating and a relaxed, 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.

People are saying

"The Oaxacan Mexican food here is authentic and tasty."

"The staff made our Happy Hour experience so attentive and friendly."

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

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.

08
Mr. Peabody's Bar & Grill Live Music image 1

Bar blends live jazz with a heated outdoor seating area that stays quiet. Fish tacos are battered and fried fresh, while turkey tacos add tasty variety. Divey vibe meets fun energy and skilled musicians for a unique spot.

Fish tacos come battered and fried fresh with great flavor and a fantastic taste. Turkey tacos also appear on the menu, offering variety alongside the standout fish option.

People are saying

"The bar food here is surprisingly good and hits the spot."

"The prime rib here is a great deal and cooked perfectly."

"I thought the fish tacos were amazing and battered just right."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 3 to 6 pm with great drink specials.

2

Karaoke night happens every Thursday with a lively atmosphere.

3

The bar serves food until 10 pm, making it a late-night option.

09
Raul's Shack Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot with beach-town energy offers loaded crispy beef tacos and fresh salsas. Outdoor seating near ocean adds to laid-back vibe. Family-owned feel draws locals seeking authentic, affordable food.

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.

10
Mexico Viejo Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot shines with authentic atmosphere and a lively salsa bar. Soft pollo asada tacos deliver bold flavor, while beans and tacos beat local rivals. Burritos also impress with quality and taste.

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 Mexican Food burritos to be awesome."

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

"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.

11
Pavlos Tacos image 1
Taco restaurant

Colorful dรฉcor and loud music create a lively vibe. Authentic Mexican food shines with original burritos and top-rated salsas. Fish tacos stand out for authentic flavor and great value, especially on Tuesdays.

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.

12
City Tacos image 1
Taco restaurant

Small taco shop offers inventive tacos like Mexicali and shrimp with very fast service. Outdoor seating includes gas fireplaces and a dog-friendly patio. Lively vibe comes from a DJ and fire pits, plus a fresh, generous salsa bar.

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.

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."

"You can bring your dog to enjoy the outdoor seating."

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.

3

Parking is convenient and generally available near City Tacos.

13
Las Olas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open-air Mexican spot boasts beachfront views and a lively patio with an open salsa bar. Fish tacos shine with a lunch special and platter, while potato tacos offer a tasty twist. Popular margarita flights pair well with standout dishes like carne asada nachos.

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."

"I found plenty of parking available, and it was free!"

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.

14
Roberto's Mexican Food - Leucadia image 1

Small Mexican spot offers quiet atmosphere with outdoor umbrella tables. Fish tacos taste fresh and vibrant, while shredded beef and chicken come with a spicy red sauce. A salsa bar adds a unique touch to the meal near the beach.

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.

15
Kotija Jr. Taco Shop image 1
Taco restaurant

Cozy spot with fish tacos that shine thanks to fresh toppings and bold flavors. Outdoor patio offers views of a busy highway and park, perfect for casual dining and people watching. Open salsa bar and TVs add to the relaxed, sleepy vibe.

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.

16
Cancun Mexican & Seafood image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot shines with top-rated tacos like shredded beef and grilled fish. Outdoor patio adds charm for quick, tasty meals. Spicy salsas boost flavor, while prices reflect quality in a simple, unassuming setting.

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.

17
Fish 101 image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood spot shines with fresh fish dishes and a hint of cinnamon in its fish tacos. Bright, ocean-facing windows create a lively vibe. Casual, family-style dining near the water makes it a great pick for relaxed meals.

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.

18
Juanitas Taco Shop image 1
Taco restaurant

Spacious seating with outdoor tables creates an authentic Mexican vibe. Fish tacos feature generous portions of meat and fresh toppings. Burritos like carne asada offer solid value with tasty, consistent flavors. Atmosphere shifts from cool to occasionally chaotic.

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.

19
Lourdes Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open front wall offers an amazing beach view and a relaxed vibe. Fish tacos deliver a crispy, unique flavor while carne asada tacos come with fresh onions and cilantro. Generous portions of Mexican food make it a great spot for affordable, satisfying meals.

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.

20
Jack in the Box image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food spot offers crispy tacos and Jumbo Jack burgers at low prices. Dining area stays clean and casual, perfect for chats. Food quality varies, with some items less fresh but flavors stay consistent.

Tacos come with a crispy shell and a familiar taste that matches past visits. They sometimes arrive less hot than expected but maintain a consistent flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and served hot."

"The coffee was fresh and hot."

"I thought the tacos here were great."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is often closed for maintenance late at night.

2

Expect cleanliness issues, as some areas may not be well-maintained.

3

Mobile orders can be placed even when the restaurant is closed.

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Encinitas, California

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