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Local picks

Taco spots in National City

A quick taco is the only thing that will hit the spot.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Mr. Pulpo Sea Food image 1
Mr. Pulpo Sea Food image 2
Mr. Pulpo Sea Food image 3
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Seafood restaurant shines with fresh fish tacos and spicy shrimp tacos that pack flavor. Renovated dive bar offers a quiet, chill atmosphere with a small, welcoming vibe. Generous portions and affordable prices make it a great spot for tasty, simple dishes.

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."

"The fish tacos here are perfectly fried and seasoned."

"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
TacoMan image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with bold flavors creates a cozy vibe. Tacos offer generous portions and stay very cheap, especially on Taco Tuesday. Carne asada shines with warm tortillas, making quick, flavorful meals a great value.

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."

"I found their carne asada to be amazing and seasoned perfectly."

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.

03
LA MALCRIADA BIRRIERIA image 1

Small, quaint spot offers family-friendly atmosphere with spacious indoor seating and a charming patio deck. Birria tacos shine with rich flavors and a green sauce that balances chicharrón perfectly. Outdoor photo spots like a big red chair add to the casual vibe.

Birria tacos stand out with rich flavors and a green sauce that balances the chicharrón taco perfectly. Options include tacos with tripa, chicharrón 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.

04
Cesar's Taco Shop image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican taco stand offers authentic flavors like birria and barbacoa with big tacos served well. Atmosphere stays chill and family-friendly despite limited seating. Parking is chaotic but prices stay affordable.

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.

05
Mi Pastor Town image 1
Mexican restaurant

Kitchen inside a liquor store offers a cozy, lively atmosphere with authentic Mexican flavors. Tacos feature juicy, tasty meat and simple, outstanding toppings like al pastor and carne asada. Prices stay great, making it a hidden gem for flavorful eats.

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.

06
Mariscos La Capital (Mexican Seafood Restaurant) image 1

Small space with an intimate, nightclub vibe draws a lively crowd. Tacos dorados shine with cotija cheese and fried shrimp, while fresh seafood and spicy aguachiles offer authentic Mexican flavors. Great margaritas complete the experience.

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.

07
Guanatos Mexican and Seafood image 1

Small Mexican spot shines with authentic seafood and crispy fish tacos. Cozy indoor and outdoor seating create a warm family vibe. Shrimp tacos bring a spicy kick that keeps guests coming back.

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.

08
Taqueria Los Famosos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small taco shop shines with handmade tortillas and affordable adobada tacos featuring a unique cinnamon twist. Clean, casual vibe suits quick bites or takeout. Tacos boast authentic flavors and fresh ingredients, making it a top spot for quality and value.

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 ordered tacos and ended up ordering seconds and thirds."

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.

09
Nandri Indian Cafe image 1
Indian restaurant

Spacious cafe-style spot offers chicken tacos with a spiced twist and tasty vegetarian cauliflower options. Open roof and board games create a kid-friendly vibe. Cheerful music and a live band add to the lively atmosphere.

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 owners are so kind and welcoming, making the curry experience special."

"The chicken taco reminded me of Kathi rolls."

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.

10
Taqueria Los Chuchys - National City image 1

Small Mexican spot serves handmade tortillas and a fresh salsa bar with radishes and hot carrots. Tacos shine with carbon-grilled carne asada and authentic flavors from Tijuana and Sinaloa. Cozy, unpolished vibe with a few tables and soft background music.

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 handmade tortillas here are thick and delicious."

"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 wasn’t bad at all during my visit.

11
Carnitas Quiroga image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, clean spot offers free tacos with fresh, large pork or beef fillings. Family-friendly vibe shines with free samples and welcoming seating inside and out. Music can be loud but adds to the chill atmosphere.

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."

"I found the food to be authentic Mexican cuisine."

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.

12
Bonchon National City image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Asian fusion spot shines with bulgogi tacos and fried chicken wings in a clean, inviting atmosphere. Younger crowd enjoys the cool vibe despite loud music. Bulgogi fries pair perfectly with tacos for a flavorful meal.

Bulgogi tacos stand out with their rich flavor and are the highlight here. Korean tacos also deliver solid taste, complemented by bulgogi fries that match the tacos well.

People are saying

"These crispy, double-fried chicken wings are fire."

"The Bulgogi here is some of the best I've ever had."

"The wings were crispy on the outside and juicy inside."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during lunch rush hours due to limited staff.

2

Parking can be scarce at peak times, so plan to arrive early.

3

The dining area is small, which may lead to crowded conditions.

13
Los Panchos Taco Shop image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot shines with crispy rolled tacos and a lively salsa bar. Portions are generous and prices stay reasonable. Enjoy a clean, casual space perfect for chatting while savoring varied burritos and tacos.

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.

14
La Lomita Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot serves generous portions with flavorful carne asada fries and rolled tacos seasoned perfectly. Warm, inviting vibe contrasts with gray interior. Regulars love classic burritos, menudo, and a variety of hot sauces.

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.

15
Kimball Bar & Eatery image 1

Oceanfront dining shines with mesmerizing decor and a lively vibe. Fried fish tacos are a must-try, especially on Taco Tuesdays. Evenings come alive with live music and a cozy fire pit that suits both families and night owls.

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 loved the food and enjoyed the live music."

"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.

16
California's Taco Shop image 1
Taco restaurant

Taco spot serves big portions of both classic and adventurous tacos like birria and rodeo rolls. Warm, inviting atmosphere with lively evenings and calm days. Salsa bar adds fresh flavors, making it a great place for taco lovers.

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 found the California burrito to be the best in the city."

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.

17
Taco Salsa Taco Shop image 1
Taco restaurant

Taco restaurant offers fresh tacos with a standout Chipotle sauce on fish tacos. Colorful theme and two-tone chairs create a unique look. Quiet atmosphere feels clean and orderly, but prices are on the higher side.

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 found the tacos to be fresh and delicious."

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.

18
664 TJ Birriería image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with cozy setting feels warm and lively despite being cramped. Rich, flavorful birria tacos come with perfectly cooked tortillas and generous portions. Well-seasoned consome adds depth, making every bite satisfying.

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 consomé 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.

19
Rodeo's Meat image 1
Butcher shop

Butcher shop offers authentic tacos like al pastor and carnitas at reasonable prices. Casual setting with a self-serve toppings bar featuring creamy avocado and spicy salsas. Perfect for quick bites or relaxed meals with specials like $1 tacos on Saturdays.

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.

20
El Nuevo Milenio image 1
Mexican restaurant

Protective bars create a prison-like atmosphere in a simple space. Tacos feature fresh, flavorful ingredients with a home-cooked taste. Prices are notably lower, making carne asada tacos and fries popular choices.

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."

"I thought the carne asada burrito I had rocked."

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

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.

21
Los Burritos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot offers double tortilla tacos with plenty of meat and a clean patio with bright flowers. Family vibe shines through quick service and a TV in the dining room. Drive-thru adds convenience to flavorful salsas and hearty Monster Burritos.

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 woman working the drive-thru was super polite."

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.

22
Market on 8th image 1
Food court

Food court offers seafood tacos like octopus and rockefeller, plus carnitas and birria. Large tables and a bar with TVs create a social setting. Outdoor seating with fire pits adds comfort for families and groups.

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 a great beer selection and enjoyed the beer garden."

"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.

23
Tacos El Franc – National City (Plaza Bonita) image 1

Modern taco spot boasts Adobada tacos with rich flavors and variety like brisket and lengua. Spacious patio offers mountain views and vibrant atmosphere with loud music. Full table service and a mini bar serve refreshing micheladas and beers.

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 enjoyed the cold beer with my tacos."

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.

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National City, California

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