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Taco Mexican Food in National City

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

Based on 813 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Mr. Pulpo Sea Food image 1
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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.

Tacos stand out with fresh fish and shrimp options that taste vibrant and satisfying. The tostada ceviche verde and spicy shrimp taco add variety and bold flavors to the menu.

Fish tacos stand out with perfectly battered fish, thin sliced cabbage, and hot red salsa. Shrimp tacos, especially the spicy ones, offer a fresh and delicious option alongside mariscos tijuanenses.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

"These fish tacos are the best Mexican food I've ever had."

"The fish taco is perfectly cooked and seasoned."

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.

02
LA MALCRIADA BIRRIERIA image 1

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 fish tacos here are really good and fresh."

"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
Cesar's Taco Shop image 1
Mexican restaurant

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."

"I found the food here to be very good."

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.

04
Mi Pastor Town image 1
Mexican restaurant

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."

"I thought the California burrito was delicious and packed with meat."

"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.

05
TacoMan image 1
Mexican restaurant

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 tacos here are packed with flavor and delicious."

"The food here is delicious and packed with flavor."

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

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.

06
Taqueria Los Famosos image 1
Mexican restaurant

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 considered the California burrito among the best I 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
Nandri Indian Cafe image 1
Indian restaurant

Spacious cafe-style restaurant with an open roof and board games like checkers and chess available for guests. Atmosphere feels homey and kid-friendly, with cheerful music and a live band adding to the lively vibe. Seating areas are ample and airy, creating a comfortable and welcoming environment.

Curry tamales stand out with Indian spices in the masa and curry inside and on top. The menu also features dishes like chicken Nandri Taco and vegetarian cauliflower taco, offering a mix of flavors.

Chicken tacos offer a simplified take on Kathi rolls with a spiced filling. Vegetarian options include a cauliflower taco. Fried chicken and Indian street tacos stand out as must-try choices.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the dosa."

"The chicken taco reminded me of Kathi rolls."

"You've got to try the curry tamales; I was hooked after the first bite."

Good to know

1

You can host events there.

2

There are microphones and speakers, suggesting they might host karaoke nights.

3

The parking lot in the back is a big plus.

08
Mariscos La Capital (Mexican Seafood Restaurant) image 1

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."

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

"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.

09
Carnitas Quiroga image 1
Mexican restaurant

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

"I found the carnitas here to be the best I ever had."

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

"The carnitas here are amazing Mexican food."

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.

10
Guanatos Mexican and Seafood image 1

Small Mexican restaurant with cozy indoor seating and outdoor tables offers a warm, family-owned atmosphere. The place draws a crowd for its authentic seafood dishes and notable fish tacos. Energy stays relaxed and friendly, making it a hidden gem for local flavors.

Fish tacos stand out with their crispy fried and grilled options, paired well with horchata or lemonade. The menu also features shrimp quesadillas, burrito de adobada, menudo, and guacamole with notably good chips.

Fish tacos stand out with crispy fried or grilled options paired with reasonably priced servings. Shrimp tacos offer a spicy kick that often leads to ordering seconds.

People are saying

"I thought the seafood here was excellent and well prepared."

"The chips for the Mexican food are the best I have ever had."

"I believed these fish tacos were the best."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult near the restaurant.

2

The restaurant is very small with about five tables.

3

Prices are moderate, around $12 for a beef burrito and $20 for spicy shrimp.

11
Taqueria Los Chuchys - National City image 1

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 smoky, tender, and have an authentic Tijuana taste."

"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.

12
664 TJ Birrierรญa image 1
Mexican restaurant

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."

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

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.

13
Kimball Bar & Eatery image 1

Oceanfront dining offers a relaxed charm with mesmerizing decor and a lively atmosphere. Evenings often feature live music that energizes the space while guests enjoy a warm fire pit on the patio. The setting balances family-friendly vibes with a vibrant nightlife feel.

Fajitas come with a unique twist and bold flavors that stand out. Quesadillas taste like authentic Mexico City street food, paired with incredible morita salsa that adds a flavorful kick.

Fried fish tacos stand out with a delicious taste that differs from typical Mexican tacos. Taco Tuesdays offer a great chance to enjoy these grilled fish tacos along with other options like steak tacos.

People are saying

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

"I found the vegetarian burger out of this world."

"You have to try the fish tacos; they're delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great prices.

2

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos and drinks.

3

Live music events happen every Saturday night, attracting large crowds.

14
Rodeo's Meat image 1
Butcher shop

Butcher shop with a casual setting and self-serve toppings bar featuring various salsas including creamy avocado and spicy red-orange options. Offers authentic tacos like al pastor and carnitas at reasonable prices, often with specials. Atmosphere suits quick bites or relaxed meals.

Tacos come with authentic flavors like al pastor, carnitas, asada, and adobada, all at reasonable prices around $2.59 each. A self-serve toppings bar offers various salsas including creamy avocado and spicy red-orange options, plus elotes in a cup add a tasty side.

Tacos come with authentic al pastor and carnitas options that taste good and feel fresh. Prices stay reasonable, with specials like $1 tacos on Saturdays and regular prices around $2.59 each.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were really good and flavorful."

"You have to try the elote; it's delicious."

"The food here is delicious and has an authentic taste."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost just $1 each on Saturdays.

2

Prices for tacos are reasonable even outside of special days.

3

The restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes.

15
La Lomita Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

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 food here is amazing and delicious."

"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
Los Burritos image 1
Mexican restaurant

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 outdoor seating area is always so clean and bright with flowers."

"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.

17
California's Taco Shop image 1
Taco restaurant

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 found the food here to be delicious and a great value."

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

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

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.

18
La Original Casa Del Taco image 1
Mexican restaurant

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 found the food here to be excellent and very tasty."

"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.

19
Taco Salsa Taco Shop image 1
Taco restaurant

Taco restaurant with a colorful theme and two-tone chairs at each table creates a distinctive look. Atmosphere feels clean and orderly but lacks background music, making it quiet. Food portions lean small and prices are on the higher side, with consistently fresh tacos and burritos favored by many.

Breakfast features bacon breakfast burritos and chilaquiles verdes that come with all the fixings. Burritos like asada and fish tacos with chipotle sauce stand out for freshness and flavor.

Fish tacos come with a Chipotle sauce that stands out. Tacos and salsa taste fresh and delicious. Prices run about 19 dollars for four tacos. Carrots served are awesome.

People are saying

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

"The California Burrito was a decent size for the cost."

"I loved their breakfast burritos, especially the bacon one."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has no bathroom available.

2

Prices are a little pricey, with two burritos costing $31.

3

I paid $19 for four tacos.

20
Los Panchos Taco Shop image 1
Mexican restaurant

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

"The food here is fresh and really delicious."

"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.

21
Los Titos Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with authentic cuisine and generous portions offers a welcoming vibe and clean environment. Menu includes varied salsas and micheladas, with standout dishes like carnitas tacos and quesadilla supreme. Prices vary, with some items noted as expensive relative to portion size.

Authentic Mexican cuisine shines with tender carne asada and fresh chorizo burritos. A salsa bar offers four tasty options, including two spicy ones, complementing dishes like the cali and sancho burritos and large quesadilla supreme.

Tacos feature fresh ingredients with a perfect balance of spices. Options include Potato Tacos, Shredded Beef, and Taco de Cabezas, alongside other Mexican favorites.

People are saying

"I loved the tacos; the ingredients were fresh with a perfect balance of spices."

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

"I loved their tacos; the ingredients were so fresh."

Good to know

1

Los Titos Mexican Food is open late at night.

2

The menu features traditional Mexican dishes crafted with care.

3

Expect generous portions at reasonable prices.

22
Tacos El Franc โ€“ National City (Plaza Bonita) image 1

Modern, spacious taco restaurant with fold-out chairs and a large patio offering mountain views. Atmosphere feels welcoming and vibrant, with loud music setting an energetic tone. Full table service and a mini bar serve beers and refreshing micheladas alongside highly praised tacos.

Tacos here stand out for their high quality and rich flavor. The Adobada tacos shine as a highlight, with other options like brisket, cabeza, and lengua also delivering strong taste.

Tacos here stand out for their high quality and rich flavor. The Adobada tacos shine as a highlight, with options like brisket, cabeza, lengua, and asado offering variety and depth.

People are saying

"I thought the marinated pork tacos were delicious."

"The tortillas here are amazing, and they gave us extra."

"I thought the Mexican Food, especially the tacos, was delicious."

Good to know

1

Grilled onions cost an extra charge.

2

The restaurant closes at a certain time and stops serving customers an hour before closing.

3

They only offer takeout.

23
Market on 8th image 1
Food court

Food court with large tables and a bar area featuring TVs for sports creates a social setting. Atmosphere ranges from cozy and calm to lively with live music and games, suitable for families and groups. Outdoor seating includes fire pits and options for sun or shade, enhancing comfort.

Rockefeller and octopus tacos stand out as notable options. The menu includes birria quesadillas, carne asada tacos, beef burritos, and Sinaloa-style tacos. Tacos may take some time to arrive. Snacks like tostilocos are also available.

Seafood tacos stand out, especially the octopus and rockefeller varieties. Carnitas and birria tacos also feature prominently, with tasty carne asada options available inside the market.

People are saying

"The Market has tons of delicious food options, like fresh sushi and juicy burgers."

"I found my favorite Mexican spot here."

"I thought the octopus taco was the best in town."

Good to know

1

Parking is very limited at Market on 8th.

2

The cafe closes after 5 PM, limiting dessert options.

3

There are various food vendors offering Mexican, Asian, and more.

24
El Nuevo Milenio image 1
Mexican restaurant

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

"I found the food here to be really good and flavorful."

"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.

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National City, California

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