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Local picks

Taco spots in San Clemente

You want a taco that is built to be eaten, not just served.

Based on 604 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Primo Foods image 1
Primo Foods image 2
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Grocery store

Local grocery store offers a relaxed atmosphere with affordable street tacos priced under a dollar on discount days. Tacos feature generous portions and fresh fillings, while free samples add to the strong neighborhood vibe.

Tacos come with generous portions and fresh, tasty fillings. On Tuesdays and Fridays, street tacos cost just $0.69, making them a great deal with a wide selection to choose from.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos were authentic, fresh, and delicious."

"The tacos here are cheap and delicious."

"I found the ceviche here to be delicious and excellent."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost $0.69 on Tuesdays and Fridays, $0.99 on other days.

2

Expect long lines on Taco Tuesdays and Fridays, sometimes wrapping around the corner.

3

Parking options are limited and can be quite challenging.

02
Taqueria Luna image 1
Restaurant

Tiny spot with a cozy patio and warm vibe serves fresh al pastor tacos with a spicy kick. Staff speak Spanish, adding to the authentic atmosphere. Open late with reasonable prices and tasty Mexican dishes.

Tacos here feature flavorful al pastor and crispy, fresh fish tacos that taste homemade. The sauce adds a spicy kick without overwhelming, and sides like rice and beans complement the meal well.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were the best."

"I thought this burrito might have been the best I've had."

"I thought the tacos here were the best."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features $2 tacos all day.

2

The restaurant is open until midnight on weekends.

3

Limited seating is available inside and in the shared walkway.

03
Seasurf Fish Co image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood spot offers Baja style fish tacos with grilled fish, shrimp, and salmon in large portions. Outdoor patio with heaters creates a laid-back vibe perfect for relaxing. Quick table turnover and a small indoor bar with TV add to the lively atmosphere.

Fish tacos come in large portions and offer Baja style flavors. Options include grilled fish, shrimp, and salmon, all noted for being generous and flavorful.

People are saying

"I thought the fish tacos were the best anywhere."

"It's a casual spot with really fresh, plentiful seafood dishes."

"I thought the fish tacos were the best anywhere."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 PM with many items priced just a few dollars.

2

Enjoy $1 oysters and $3 battered fish tacos during happy hour on Tuesdays.

3

Parking is available behind the restaurant for easy access.

04
Los Molinos Beer image 1

Brewery offers a family-friendly patio with shaded outdoor seating and a lively vibe. Tacos shine on Taco Tuesday with fresh birria and chicken options. Live music and surf videos create a vibrant atmosphere that welcomes locals and travelers alike.

Tacos come super fresh and delicious with options like birria and chicken featured especially on Taco Tuesday. The menu also includes breakfast burritos and sandwiches, adding variety beyond tacos.

People are saying

"I loved the perfectly crafted beer here."

"You have to try the birria egg rolls; they're a standout."

"The Taco Tuesday menu here is not to be missed."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features a special menu that shouldn't be missed.

2

Live music happens every Saturday, creating a lively atmosphere.

3

The brewery is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

05
Ricos Mexican Food image 1

Small space offers a casual vibe with freshly made food and fast service. Tacos shine with huge portions and cheese Birria that taste incredible. Enjoy fish tacos paired with fresh guacamole and warm chips for a satisfying meal.

Tacos come in huge portions with standout options like cheese Birria and fish tacos served with fresh guacamole and warm chips. Preparation is solid, making the tacos taste incredible and satisfying.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and fresh."

"I loved the huge burritos with great salsa."

"These tacos are so fresh and delicious!"

Good to know

1

It can take a few minutes from ordering until the food is ready, so calling your order in advance is recommended.

2

There is seating inside and a few tables outside if you want to enjoy the beautiful weather.

3

The small bottle of water costs $2.35.

06
Nomads Canteen image 1
Restaurant

Enjoy lively surf culture with indoor and outdoor seating on a two-level patio. Savor pink tacos with ahi tuna and fresh fish options alongside excellent salsas. Sip on house-made margaritas while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Pink tacos feature ahi tuna and stand out among options like shrimp and fish tacos. Menus include Tex-Mex choices with fresh fish, vegetarian options, and excellent salsas and guacamole.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really yummy and enjoyable."

"I enjoyed the great beer selection."

"The tacos here have a chill, laid-back surfer vibe."

Good to know

1

Parking on the premises is limited, but municipal parking is available nearby.

2

Nomads Canteen offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

3

The hotel is located in the heart of downtown San Clemente.

07
Chelas Mexican Kitchen image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy rib eye tacos with smoky chipotle sauce and flavorful chicken crispy tacos. Outdoor seating and a chill atmosphere make dining relaxing. Contemporary Mexican music and soccer on TV add to the comfortable vibe.

Tacos here come with authentic flavors and a variety of fillings like rib eye, chicken, and carnitas. The rib eye tacos feature a smoky chipotle sauce that adds a spicy kick, while the chicken crispy tacos offer plenty of flavor without heat.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was great and fresh."

"The tacos and rice and beans here are so good for Date Spots."

"The rib eye tacos are spicy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from 3 pm to close on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

2

Taco Tuesday offers great deals on tacos and is popular among locals.

3

On Wednesdays, enjoy fresh fish tacos with chips and salsa for $6 during Happy Hour.

08
Antoine's Cafe image 1

Small cafe offers breakfast tacos with perfect fillings and a Bloody Mary pairing. Classic diner style with surfboards on walls creates a cozy vibe. Outdoor seating is dog-friendly and shaded, making it great for relaxed visits or lively weekends.

Breakfast tacos stand out with perfect preparation and a variety of fillings. They pair well with a Bloody Mary for a solid morning meal.

People are saying

"The food and service here were amazing."

"I loved the delicious breakfast, especially the fluffy pancakes."

"I ordered the breakfast tacos and they were made to perfection."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-minute wait for a table during peak breakfast hours.

2

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

The cafe opens at 6:30 am, perfect for early risers.

09
Hapa J's image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Open windows and a surfer theme create a chill, down-to-earth vibe with a strong Hawaiian feel. Taco Tuesday offers ahi tacos and shrimp truck options paired with fresh sides like country salad. Busy spots buzz with energy, while small rooms provide a quiet escape.

Taco Tuesday features an assortment of tasty tacos including ahi tacos and shrimp truck options. The variety pairs well with sides like country salad.

People are saying

"The food here is really delicious and fresh."

"These pig nachos are the best I have ever tasted."

"I enjoyed the tasty assortment of tacos on Taco Tuesday."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features special menu items focused on tacos and quesadillas.

2

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 PM with $2 off drinks.

3

Parking is available in the lot across the street with plenty of open spots.

10
The Sunrise Cafe image 1

Old-fashioned diner offers a laid-back beach vibe with classic decor and local art. Breakfast tacos are huge and filling, served with breakfast potatoes or hash browns. Outdoor seating adds to the small surfside town feel, making it perfect for a quiet, friendly breakfast.

Breakfast tacos come in three huge tacos with a choice of breakfast potatoes or hash browns. They taste amazing and fill you up well.

People are saying

"I loved the breakfast here; the omelette and hash browns were amazing."

"The coffee here is really good and served in generous portions."

"I had the breakfast tacos and found them amazing."

Good to know

1

The cafe is located on a busy street corner with parking available in a back lot.

2

There are both counter service and tables available.

3

They are mindful of dietary restrictions.

11
San Clemente Ranch Market image 1
Mexican grocery store

Smoke from the grill signals authentic Mexican comfort food with a down-to-earth atmosphere. Al Pastor tacos shine as a favorite choice, paired well with burritos and quesadillas. Quick takeout and generous portions keep locals coming back.

Al Pastor tacos stand out as consistently delicious and a favorite choice. The tacos come with good burritos and quesadillas, and the quick takeout option makes it easy to grab Mexican treats including tacos and guacamole.

People are saying

"Their Al Pastor tacos and breakfast burritos are delicious."

"I found the Mexican food here to be the best genuine Mexican comfort food."

"I loved the al pastor taco; it was so delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers the best deals on tacos in the area.

2

The market features a wide selection of authentic Mexican treats.

3

Prices are very reasonable compared to other local markets.

12
Surfin' Chicken Grill image 1
Chicken restaurant

Family-run spot offers a homey atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating that welcomes dogs. Fresh grilled chicken shines in chicken tacos, while shrimp tacos balance flavors without greasiness. Prices stay reasonable for homemade taste and quality.

Shrimp tacos come out fresh and not greasy with a good balance of flavors. Chicken tacos stand out as a solid choice, while fish tacos include cabbage, tomatoes, and flavorful salsa for a full bite.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be super delicious and fresh."

"The fish here is so fresh and perfectly cooked."

"The fish tacos here are super flavorful and fresh."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a good selection of dishes to choose from.

2

Prices at Surfin' Chicken Grill are reasonable and not outrageous.

3

The restaurant is clean and has seating inside and outside.

13
El Jefe Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Family-run Mexican cafรฉ serves street-style tacos with fresh fillings like lengua and shrimp. Casual, authentic vibe welcomes families and sports fans alike. Plenty of parking and bilingual staff make it easy and friendly.

Tacos come with 8-inch tortillas and fresh, authentic fillings made to order. Options include tacos de lengua, beef, shrimp, and soft taco plates with generous portions and added cheese.

People are saying

"I thought the food was super good and made fresh in-house."

"This Mexican food felt so authentic, it was like being in Mexico."

"The tacos here are quick and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The prices at El Jefe Cafe are very reasonable.

2

There is plenty of parking available, which is usually hard to find.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but there is a fee for ATM use.

14
Franco's Famous San Clemente image 1

Spacious Mexican spot shines with bold steak tacos and a lively bar serving fresh margaritas. Enjoy an airy patio and pet-friendly courtyard that create a relaxed vibe. Taco Tuesday offers affordable smash tacos and classic sides for a great deal.

Steak, shrimp, and fish tacos offer bold flavors with a variety of options. Taco Tuesday features a phenomenal and affordable menu including smash tacos and classic sides like beans and chips.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and very well priced."

"The airy patio is a delightful spot for tasty Mexican food."

"I had the best shrimp taco I have ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6pm and all evening on Tuesdays.

2

Taco Tuesday offers an affordable menu with great options.

3

Expect a small wait for seating during popular happy hour times.

15
Coastal Cowboy CA Eats image 1
American restaurant

Modern country decor and cowgirl surf art create a warm, fun vibe. Bold, fresh flavors shine in fish tacos and smash burgers. Patio seating adds to the casual, inviting energy.

Fish tacos stand out with bold, fresh flavors and perfect cooking. Ahi al pastor and brisket cheesesteak tacos offer great variety and taste.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and delicious."

"The staff at Outdoor Seating were so sweet and attentive."

"The fish tacos here have super great flavor and taste fresh."

Good to know

1

On Thursday, all IPA beers are $5.

2

Expect a 30-40 minute wait during peak hours.

3

You can substitute a gluten-free bun for any sandwich or burger.

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San Clemente, California

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