Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Taco Mexican Food in National City

Made for those who believe a taco is the only way to truly experience Mexican food.

Based on 715 Opinions
+712
User
User
User
Updated
01
Cesar's Taco Shop image 1
Cesar's Taco Shop image 2
Cesar's Taco Shop image 3
View all

Mexican taco stand with authentic flavors and excellent tacos like birria, barbacoa, and cabeza. Atmosphere is chill and family-friendly despite limited seating and organization. Parking can be chaotic, but prices remain affordable.

Tacos come big and well served with options like birria, barbacoa, cabeza, carne asada, and trompa. The spot offers authentic Mexican flavors and a chill vibe with good service.

Tacos come big and well served with authentic flavors like carne asada, trompa, barbacoa, and cabeza. Ground beef tacos and birria tacos stand out, all offered with good service in a chill setting.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is the best."

"I thought the tacos here were fire."

Good to know

1

Parking can be chaotic and difficult to find near the taco shop.

2

The taco shop has limited seating and can get crowded.

3

Prices at the taco shop are generally affordable.

02
LA MALCRIADA BIRRIERIA image 1
LA MALCRIADA BIRRIERIA image 2
LA MALCRIADA BIRRIERIA image 3
View all

Small, quaint restaurant with spacious indoor seating and a patio deck offers a family-friendly atmosphere with good music playing. The vibe is welcoming and casual, suited for relaxed outings. Outdoor seating includes photo spots like a big red chair, adding charm to the environment.

Birria tacos stand out with rich flavor and less fat saturation than typical spots. The menu features birria ramen and queso birria, alongside a highly praised salsa and tortillas.

Birria tacos stand out with rich flavors and a green sauce that balances the chicharrรณn taco perfectly. Options include tacos with tripa, chicharrรณn prensado, shrimp, and fresh fish tacos, plus specials like taco Tuesday at $2.50 each.

People are saying

"This Mexican food tastes just like Tijuana, not Tex-Mex."

"The birria tacos here are beyond good and taste like Tijuana."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday specials offer regular Birria tacos for $2.50 all day.

2

Parking is easy and accessible near the restaurant.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of birria options.

03
Mi Pastor Town image 1
Mi Pastor Town image 2
Mi Pastor Town image 3
View all

Kitchen inside a liquor store offers small indoor seating with a cozy, lively atmosphere filled with the aroma of cooked food. The space feels like a hidden gem with authentic Mexican flavors and a unique setting that transports diners to Mexico.

Tacos feature juicy, flavorful meat with simple but outstanding toppings. Unique green and pink al pastor creations stand out alongside perfectly seasoned carne asada and large, tasty burritos like the Cowboy and Ironman.

Tacos pack juicy, tasty meat with simple but outstanding toppings. Options like al pastor, fish, and carne asada deliver authentic flavors at a great price.

People are saying

"The Mexican food, especially the tacos, is authentic and delicious."

"These tacos are amazing, with juicy meat and outstanding toppings."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited at this location, requiring a short walk.

2

The place is located inside a mart and is not really a sit-down dining area.

3

The tacos contain nuts, so customers should be cautious if they have nut allergies.

04
TacoMan image 1
TacoMan image 2
TacoMan image 3
View all

Small space with limited parking creates a cozy, bustling vibe. Tacos and carne asada stand out for their bold flavors and warm tortillas, while daily specials offer good value. The atmosphere suits quick, flavorful meals with a friendly, casual energy.

Carnitas and carne asada stand out with perfect seasoning and generous portions. Warm tortillas and spicy salsas complement fresh, flavorful tacos and burritos.

Tacos come in generous portions with fresh ingredients and a salty, flavorful taste. Prices stay very cheap while offering deals like Taco Tuesday specials.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the carne asada."

"The tacos here are packed with flavor and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is very limited with only four spots available.

2

Expect difficulty finding parking due to one-way streets nearby.

3

Taco Tuesday deals offer great value for budget-conscious diners.

05
Carnitas Quiroga image 1
Carnitas Quiroga image 2
Carnitas Quiroga image 3
View all

Small, clean space offers both inside and outside seating with a family-friendly, welcoming vibe. Guests receive free samples and tacos upon arrival, enhancing the chill, friendly atmosphere despite occasionally annoying music.

Carnitas stand out as incredibly flavorful and tender, often described as some of the best in town. The menu also features chilaquiles rojos con carnitas and tortas de asada, both highly praised for their taste and authenticity.

Tacos come with shredded pork or beef, served fresh and large. Free tacos often arrive before the main order, showcasing the carnitas flavor.

People are saying

"The carnitas here are amazing Mexican food."

"I found the tacos here to be amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is fairly new and currently has no wait for a table.

2

They have package deals that include carnitas, rice, beans, salsa, and tortillas for $21.

3

The 2.99 Taco Tuesday deal applies only to mini tacos, not regular-sized tacos.

06
Taqueria Los Famosos image 1
Taqueria Los Famosos image 2
Taqueria Los Famosos image 3
View all

Small taco shop offers handmade tortillas and affordable adobada tacos with a unique cinnamon flavor. Atmosphere is clean and casual, with limited seating encouraging takeout. Known for high-quality tacos that compete with larger establishments in the area.

Tacos here come with fresh soft tortillas, generous meat portions, and vibrant toppings. The adobada tacos cost just over a dollar and pack bold flavor, while the California burrito stands out with its unique taste.

Tacos feature authentic flavors with fresh ingredients and good portions. Varieties like adobada, al pastor, and fish stand out, with adobada tacos priced around $1.80 and known for crispy meat bits and soft tortillas.

People are saying

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

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

Good to know

1

Adding guacamole increases the price to $2.33.

2

There are limited seating options, so takeout is recommended.

3

The adobada tacos are priced at only $1 and some change.

07
Mariscos La Capital (Mexican Seafood Restaurant) image 1
Mariscos La Capital (Mexican Seafood Restaurant) image 2
Mariscos La Capital (Mexican Seafood Restaurant) image 3
View all

Small space with only a few tables creates an intimate setting. Atmosphere feels dark and lively, resembling a nightclub more than a family spot. Fresh seafood, spicy aguachiles, and great margaritas draw a crowd looking for authentic Mexican seafood flavors.

Tacos dorados stand out as extremely delicious and a highlight of the menu. Fresh seafood options like shrimp tacos, tostada mixta, and ceviche offer flavorful, well-prepared Mexican dishes.

Tacos dorados stand out with lots of cotija cheese and fried shrimp fillings. Fish tacos and shrimp tacos offer top notch flavors, while the Campechana and Gobernadore tacos add variety.

People are saying

"The fish tacos and ceviche here are so fresh and flavorful."

"The tacos dorados were the best thing that has ever hit my lips."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the street, and it's usually easy to find.

2

The restaurant closes at 8 pm on Saturdays.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is recommended for street vendors nearby.

08
Taqueria Los Chuchys - National City image 1
Taqueria Los Chuchys - National City image 2
Taqueria Los Chuchys - National City image 3
View all

Small Mexican restaurant offers handmade tortillas and a fresh salsa bar with radishes and hot carrots. Atmosphere feels cozy and unpolished, with a few tables and background music. Tacos are authentic and flavorful, especially carne asada, reflecting a strong connection to traditional flavors.

Carne asada has a real grill char and fresh ingredients. Thick, handmade tortillas hold large, tasty tacos and quesadillas. Salsas and aguas frescas add flavorful touches to a solid menu.

Tacos feature fresh ingredients and a carbon-grilled carne asada that recalls Tijuana flavors. The tacos de cabeza stand out for their taste, closely matching those from Sinaloa.

People are saying

"The carne asada tacos here are the best Mexican food I've had."

"These tacos are delicious and authentic, just like in Tijuana."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has very few tables, so expect limited seating.

2

There was plenty of parking available for convenience.

3

The wait time wasnโ€™t bad at all during my visit.

09
La Casa De Oro Mexican Restaurant image 1
La Casa De Oro Mexican Restaurant image 2
La Casa De Oro Mexican Restaurant image 3
View all

Cozy diner with rustic decor and a home-like feel offers a peaceful atmosphere where families gather. Fresh handmade tortillas are made at the entrance, adding to the authentic vibe. Music plays loudly, creating a lively energy despite the intimate setting.

Freshly made homemade tortillas greet you at the entrance, crafted by hand in plain view. The menu features birria, menudo, and mole, all paired with chips and salsa that stand out.

Fish tacos come with freshly made corn tortillas and birria tacos stand out for their flavor. Beef tacos and sopes taste like stew, while ranchero-style tacos and cheese quesadillas offer simple options.

People are saying

"You have to try the handmade tortillas with the Mexican food here."

"You've got to try the birria tacos with those handmade corn tortillas."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times of 20 to 60 minutes if arriving after 9 a.m.

2

The restaurant limits dining time to 90 minutes once seated.

3

Parking is available in the plaza, but spots can be hard to find during busy hours.

10
664 TJ Birrierรญa image 1
664 TJ Birrierรญa image 2
664 TJ Birrierรญa image 3
View all

Small space with simple decor and clean environment creates a cozy setting. Atmosphere feels warm and lively despite being cramped and hot. Known for rich, flavorful birria tacos served with perfectly cooked tortillas and well-seasoned consome.

Birria here tastes just like in Mexico with rich flavor and lots of meat. The quesabirria tacos and birra quesadilla come with perfectly cooked tortillas that hold up well when dipped.

Quesabirria tacos stand out with rich flavor and lots of meat. Tortillas hold up well to fillings, and portions come in generous sizes often paired with consomรฉ or beans.

People are saying

"The birria here is really good and flavorful."

"The birria tacos here are rich, flavorful, and packed with meat."

Good to know

1

The location closes early at 7 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Tacos cost almost $5 each, which is reasonable for the portion size.

3

They only offer one salsa option for the tacos.

11
Los Panchos Taco Shop image 1
Los Panchos Taco Shop image 2
Los Panchos Taco Shop image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant with a clean dining area and a salsa bar offers a casual, relaxed atmosphere suitable for conversation. Portions are generally plentiful and prices remain reasonable. The menu features varied burritos and tacos, with some items standing out for quality and flavor.

Fresh, high quality Mexican food shines with flavorful carne asada burritos and exceptional Cali burritos. Tacos, including fish tacos and Tacos de Cabeza, come tasty and filling at reasonable prices with fast, friendly service.

Rolled tacos stand out with a crispy texture and come with a wacamole and sour cream mix sauce. Tacos like Tacos de Cabeza and fish tacos offer tasty, filling options at a great price.

People are saying

"You've got to try the rolled tacos; they're the best in town."

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

Good to know

1

Parking can be hit or miss due to a busy lot.

2

Prices are reasonable, with burritos costing around $10.

3

No alcohol is available at this location.

12
La Original Casa Del Taco image 1
La Original Casa Del Taco image 2
La Original Casa Del Taco image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant offers quiet, relaxed atmosphere with outdoor seating and free Wi-Fi. It attracts many elderly guests and suits celebrations and catering events. The vibe feels like home with authentic, fresh flavors and reasonable prices.

Authentic Mexican food shines with super tender birria, chicken mole enchiladas, and fresh, flavorful salsa. Complimentary chips and salsa start the meal, while tortillas taste like grandma's, adding a homey touch.

Carnitas, carne asada, and birria tacos stand out with strong flavors and fresh salsa. Some tacos like fish and crispy beef show inconsistency, with issues like sour beans and off tastes.

People are saying

"Their authentic Mexican food, especially the tacos, is delicious."

"I thought the carne asada and birria tacos were great."

Good to know

1

Daily specials are available and considered good and affordable.

2

The venue space can be rented for events like weddings.

3

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness.

13
California's Taco Shop image 1
California's Taco Shop image 2
California's Taco Shop image 3
View all

Taco restaurant offers variety of tacos including traditional and adventurous options with big portions and a salsa bar. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting with tidy, welcoming setting and music playing. Evenings bring a crowd, while daytime can be quiet.

Tacos come in traditional and adventurous styles, with carne asada and carnitas standing out. Burritos are huge and packed with fresh ingredients, especially the California burrito and Machaca Burrito. The salsa bar adds extra flavor to every bite.

Tacos come in traditional carne asada and carnitas, plus more adventurous options like rolled tacos and birria. Fish tacos and rodeo roll tacos stand out, paired well with green salsa and guacamole.

People are saying

"I thought the burritos here were the biggest I've ever had."

"You've got to try the rolled tacos; they're delicious."

Good to know

1

The prices listed on the menu may differ from what you are charged.

2

California's Taco Shop offers a variety of tacos, including adventurous options.

3

Expect good portion sizes for the price.

14
Los Burritos image 1
Los Burritos image 2
Los Burritos image 3
View all

Small Mexican restaurant with limited indoor and outdoor seating, featuring a clean patio with bright flowers. Atmosphere feels like family, casual and quick with a TV on in the dining room. Known for flavorful salsas, well-seasoned Monster Burritos, and a drive-thru option.

Monster Burritos come very well seasoned and dressed, offering rich flavors. Tacos de cabeza feature double tortillas and enough meat for two tacos, standing out as a favorite. The queso birria and salsa quemada add authentic Mexican taste, complemented by a good horchata.

Tacos de cabeza come with double tortillas and enough meat for two tacos. Rolled tacos are really small and the shredded chicken in them tends to be dry.

People are saying

"The tacos here are fresh and flavorful."

"The Mexican Food here is so well seasoned and dressed."

Good to know

1

The menu includes popular Mexican dishes like burritos, chile relleno, and carne asada.

2

Los Burritos has a drive-thru option for quick service.

3

Expect to pay around $20 if you add beans and rice to your burrito.

15
La Lomita Mexican Grill image 1
La Lomita Mexican Grill image 2
La Lomita Mexican Grill image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant offers generous portions and flavorful carne asada fries that stand out. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting despite a somewhat gray interior. Regulars come for classic dishes like burritos and menudo, appreciating the selection of hot sauces.

Carne asada fries come plentiful and flavorful. Tacos and burritos, especially the carne asada burrito and adobada tacos, offer authentic, tasty Mexican food with well-seasoned fillings.

Rolled tacos stand out with their perfect seasoning and great flavor. Tacos come with fresh tortillas and tasty beans, offering a consistently flavorful experience.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is flavorful and tasty."

"I found the tacos here to be really flavorful and enjoyable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant was recently closed by the health department due to vermin issues.

2

Portion sizes are generally generous, often enough for two meals.

3

Prices have increased while the portions have shrunk over the years.

16
El Nuevo Milenio image 1
El Nuevo Milenio image 2
El Nuevo Milenio image 3
View all

Protective bars across the counter create a prison-like atmosphere in a simple, unadorned space. The vibe is casual and familiar, with carne asada tacos and fries standing out as popular choices. Prices are notably lower than many competitors, maintaining a consistent flavor profile reminiscent of traditional home cooking.

Carne asada burritos stand out with fresh, flavorful meat and generous portions. Rolled tacos and bean and cheese burritos offer a taste reminiscent of home cooking, all at significantly lower prices than other taco shops.

Tacos here have fresh and flavorful ingredients with a taste that recalls home cooking. Rolled tacos stand out as plentiful and tasty, offered at prices about half of other shops nearby.

People are saying

"These tacos taste really good and remind me of home."

"I thought the carne asada burrito was the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

The price of a California burrito is $11.46, with an extra $2 for sour cream.

2

Portions at El Nuevo Milenio are large, providing good value for the price.

3

Drive-thru service is available, making it convenient for late-night visits.

Discover more

National City, California

Area guide