Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of San Diego

Affordable tacos

Made for those who believe that a high-quality taco should be accessible and affordable enough to eat every single day.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
User
User
User
Updated
01
Contodo Fresh Mexican Eats image 1
Contodo Fresh Mexican Eats image 2
Contodo Fresh Mexican Eats image 3
View all

Small Mexican restaurant offers clean interior and spacious patio seating with a pleasant outdoor vibe. Atmosphere stays cool and relaxed with good music and a comfortable setting. It attracts those looking for a casual spot to enjoy fresh, well-regarded tacos and burritos.

Tacos here stand out for their authentic flavors and fresh ingredients. Options like carne asada, fish, shrimp, and adobada tacos deliver strong, genuine tastes with a variety of fillings.

Prices stay affordable with quick service. Food, especially the Tacos, offers good value.

People are saying

"I really enjoyed the fish tacos here."

"I found the food to be really good and affordable."

Good to know

1

$1.99 fish taco special is available, making it a great deal.

2

The taco shop has a drive-thru for convenient ordering.

3

Expect reasonable prices and good portion sizes.

02
Mike's Red Tacos - Point Loma image 1
Mike's Red Tacos - Point Loma image 2
Mike's Red Tacos - Point Loma image 3
View all

Roomy dining areas combine with inside and outside seating to create a clean, modern environment. A self-serve salsa bar offers various options, adding a unique touch to the experience. The atmosphere feels chill and cozy, enhanced by views of a green field and mountains in the background.

Birria tacos stand out with rich, flavorful meat and melted cheese in red tortillas. The tacos consistently deliver amazing taste and satisfy with every bite.

Food comes at very affordable prices, with burritos around $14. Quality stays good despite the low cost.

People are saying

"I loved the birria tacos here."

"I thought the food was delicious and really affordable."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, a free taco is offered with meal combo orders.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere on Taco Tuesdays with many locals attending.

3

Parking is available nearby, but can fill up quickly during peak hours.

03
Johnny Maรฑanas Ocean Beach image 1
Johnny Maรฑanas Ocean Beach image 2
Johnny Maรฑanas Ocean Beach image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant offers colorful storefront and outdoor seating with views of the pier. Atmosphere shifts from quiet early afternoons to a lively vibe later, enhanced by Mexican music and a self-serve salsa bar. Affordable drinks include $5 margaritas and draft beers, complementing well-regarded tacos and burritos.

Fish tacos stand out with a crispy texture and consistent flavor at $3.50 each. The surf and turf taco offers a unique, memorable taste, and all tacos come in solid portions at an affordable price.

Crispy fish tacos come at an extremely affordable price. Lunch options are quick, tasty, and budget-friendly. Draft beer costs just $3, making the overall experience very affordable.

People are saying

"The fish tacos here are really good and quite large."

"You can't beat the crispy fish tacos for such an affordable price."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, enjoy $2.50 street tacos and two for $5 specials.

2

Happy hour features $3 pints and $6 margaritas from 2 to 6 PM and all day on weekends.

3

Outdoor seating is available for dogs.

04
La Central Birria image 1
La Central Birria image 2
La Central Birria image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant with a family atmosphere and community vibe feels like entering a relative's home. The space is casual and relaxed but often packed and lively, creating a warm and welcoming environment.

Birria tacos stand out with crispy, golden-brown tendons and a seared, flavorful finish. The crispy taco with beans adds a satisfying texture and taste.

Food comes at affordable prices here. The menu offers great value without sacrificing quality.

People are saying

"The tacos here are served with such friendly, attentive service."

"The food here is amazing and affordable."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited at La Central Birria and it can get busy.

2

They turned away more than 10 people while I was there.

3

They were out of birria at 1:15 and 1:30 PM, even though they closed at 2 PM.

05
Mic Drop Comedy image 1
Mic Drop Comedy image 2
Mic Drop Comedy image 3
View all

Small venue with an Alice in Wonderland theme creates an intimate atmosphere where every seat feels close to the action. Professional improv keeps the crowd engaged and the energy fun without crossing lines. Full bar and kitchen offer creative cocktails and distinctive food alongside strong comedy acts.

Queso birria tacos stand out with rich flavor. Garlic fried rice complements the excellent tacos well.

Shows have very affordable tickets that make for a great night out. Drinks cost less and vary by day and event. The venue feels intimate and cozy while keeping prices low.

People are saying

"The birria tacos here are delicious and legit."

"It's cozy and affordable, with a really intimate atmosphere."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available on site.

2

Mic Drop Comedy does not require a food or drink minimum.

3

Doors open at 9 PM, but seating may be delayed.

06
Mike Hess Brewing - Seaport Village image 1
Mike Hess Brewing - Seaport Village image 2
Mike Hess Brewing - Seaport Village image 3
View all

Brewpub offers outdoor patio seating with incredible bay views and an authentic feel. Atmosphere stays relaxed and lively, with dog-friendly spaces and occasional loud music from nearby pier speakers. Visitors enjoy excellent beer selections and highly praised tacos while unwinding by the water.

Seafood tacos stand out with crispy shrimp and fish options that many find exceptional. Balanced sauces and unique flavors like Hawaiian chorizo and Mahi add variety to the well-sized portions.

Tacos cost between $4 and $5 each and come in generous portions. Prices stay affordable even in a pricey downtown area.

People are saying

"I found the fish tacos here to be some of the best."

"The tacos are delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

They offer a 10% discount on Taco Tuesdays.

3

Military discounts are available on all items.

07
Steamy Piggy Point Loma image 1
Steamy Piggy Point Loma image 2
Steamy Piggy Point Loma image 3
View all

Asian restaurant with modern, inviting decor and photo-worthy corners creates a friendly, vibey atmosphere. Loud, chill music and several TVs showing sports and K-pop fill the space. Cocktails like lychee and passionfruit complement soft dumplings and flavorful chicken rolls.

Fusion tacos stand out with succulent pork and sweet and spicy chicken flavors. Options include chicken bao tacos and bulgogi, offering a mix of textures and tastes.

Food comes out quickly and stays affordable with inexpensive prices for the portion size. Cocktails, noodles, dumplings, and soups all fall within a fair price range.

People are saying

"I found the fusion tacos to be amazing and flavorful."

"The food and cocktails here are delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 8pm with $1 wings and late night deals.

2

The $1 wings are a popular choice during happy hour.

3

Parking is easier at this location compared to others in the area.

08
Bronze Bird image 1
Bronze Bird image 2
Bronze Bird image 3
View all

Hotel restaurant with modern design and artful decor creates a relaxed yet upscale atmosphere. Spacious seating and a dog-friendly outdoor patio add comfort and convenience. Noise levels can rise during events, affecting conversation.

Tacos here feature tender short rib and marinated tofu with strong flavors. Options like the Asian Street Tacos and rib tacos stand out for their taste and texture.

Food, beer, and dessert come at affordable prices here. The overall cost feels nice and reasonable for what you get.

People are saying

"These short rib tacos are delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Show your Broadway show tickets for a 20% discount on your meal.

3

Valet parking is available for $10 when dining and attending a theater.

09
Roberto's Taco Shop Bay Park image 1
Roberto's Taco Shop Bay Park image 2
Roberto's Taco Shop Bay Park image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant with authentic imported tile floors and retro neon signs creates a space that feels like an 80s cantina. The atmosphere is dark and casual, offering ample seating for sit-down meals. It operates 24/7, attracting a steady flow of people looking for late-night Mexican food.

Rolled tacos stand out as best in town with consistent freshness and flavor. Mini tacos cost just over two dollars each, offering good value. The shop stays open 24 hours, serving fresh carne asada and shredded beef tacos.

Prices range from 3 to 12 dollars, making most items very affordable. The shrimp quesadilla features big shrimp and costs around 8 or 9 dollars. Food is consistently fast and inexpensive.

People are saying

"These tacos are so delicious, I came back for more."

"I found the food to be great and affordable."

Good to know

1

Roberto's Taco Shop Bay Park is open 24 hours and on holidays.

2

The prices at Roberto's Taco Shop Bay Park are very good, especially for Southern California.

3

The prices range from 3 to 12 dollars, making it affordable.

10
Don Carlos Taco Shopึ‰ image 1
Don Carlos Taco Shopึ‰ image 2
Don Carlos Taco Shopึ‰ image 3
View all

Small, cozy Mexican restaurant with a hole-in-the-wall vibe and laid-back atmosphere. Offers fast, affordable food with outdoor patio seating where people watch happens. Known for flavorful burritos and tacos that stand out in quality and taste.

Fish tacos stand out with their huge size and tasty flavor. Other tacos like steak, ground beef, and grilled chicken come with rich, satisfying flavor and generous portions.

Prices stay very inexpensive across tacos, quesadillas, and burritos. Burritos offer great value, often serving as two meals for the price of one. Food comes out consistently fast and tasty.

People are saying

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

"The prices were affordable for the great quality."

Good to know

1

The wait at Don Carlos Taco Shop is usually short, even during rush hours.

2

There is limited seating available at Don Carlos Taco Shop.

3

Don Carlos Taco Shop offers a variety of menu options, including vegan choices.

11
Tacaliente Mexican Grill image 1
Tacaliente Mexican Grill image 2
Tacaliente Mexican Grill image 3
View all

Open, spacious dining area features bright murals and mounted TVs creating a casual, authentic vibe. A self-serve salsa bar with hot carrots adds interactive flavor options. The atmosphere suits relaxed meals with family and friends, blending modern comfort with traditional Mexican elements.

Battered fish tacos stand out with generous meat fillings and great value. Taco Tuesdays offer affordable deals and tasty options like Caliente and Carne Asada tacos.

Massive $1.70 fish tacos stand out for their size and price. Food offers incredible value with consistently affordable pricing.

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be fantastic and packed with flavor."

"I found the tacos to be very affordable, especially on Taco Tuesdays."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers four tacos for $7 starting at 2 PM.

2

Happy hour runs from 4 to 8 PM with fish tacos at $1.29 each.

3

They accept credit cards only; no cash payments.

12
JV's Mexican Food image 1
JV's Mexican Food image 2
JV's Mexican Food image 3
View all

Colorful interior with bright decorations and big screens showing sports creates a lively yet laid-back vibe. The space feels authentic and welcoming, offering plenty of seating without any pretension. Regulars enjoy huge, flavorful burritos and house-made salsa in a clean, casual setting.

Tacos come with generous portions and a unique flavor that stands out. The Taco Tuesday deal offers three tacos and a drink for $6, featuring excellent steak and fish tacos.

Food costs stay low with inexpensive prices and generous portions. This spot offers more food for less compared to similar Mexican restaurants.

People are saying

"I thought the fish tacos here were some of the best I ever had."

"It's affordable and the portions are huge."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers 3 tacos and a drink for $6.

2

Expect large portions, often enough for two or three meals.

3

Credit cards accepted, but there's a $0.30 fee for using them.

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

Outdoor terrace offers a zen-like, relaxing atmosphere reminiscent of a family home, while the indoor space feels dim and cafeteria-like. Counter service supports a casual, affordable dining experience with freshly made tortillas and top-notch beans. The vibe balances simplicity with authentic Mexican flavors in a modest setting.

Tacos here offer authentic flavors with tender, smoky carne asada and excellent battered fish tacos. Prices stay surprisingly low while delivering delicious, meaty portions and consistent quality.

Mexican food comes at inexpensive prices here. The menu offers affordable options without sacrificing flavor.

People are saying

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

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

Good to know

1

There is no restroom available at this taco shop.

2

The prices are surprisingly low for the area, with generous portions.

3

This taco shop offers a limited vegetarian option.

14
MATADOR Mexican Grill image 1
MATADOR Mexican Grill image 2
MATADOR Mexican Grill image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant with cozy indoor seating and clean, well-decorated interior creates a vibey atmosphere. The place offers an excellent salsa bar and a large menu featuring flavorful tacos and birria. Portions tend to be affordable and satisfying, making it a solid spot for authentic Mexican food.

Rolled tacos stand out for their freshness and the taco enchilado is consistently delicious. Shrimp tacos come in a good size, often offered as a deal, and potato tacos add a nice twist to the menu.

Large portions come with affordable prices. Burritos and daily specials offer great value without sacrificing quality.

People are saying

"I thought the carnitas tacos here were delicious."

"I found the food here to be excellent and affordable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has no public restrooms available.

2

Parking can be tight, so arrive early.

3

Dine-in is not allowed; takeout only.

15
La Perlita Mexican Food image 1
La Perlita Mexican Food image 2
La Perlita Mexican Food image 3
View all

Small Mexican restaurant with beachy vibes and limited indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere is relaxed but affected by flies inside and outside and minimal air circulation from a weak ceiling fan. Locals often order at a walk-up counter, enjoying authentic tacos and burritos near the beach.

Tacos come in fish and carne asada varieties with authentic flavors. Prices stay affordable, and the spot feels like a hole in the wall taco shop.

Tacos and carne asada come at affordable prices here. Meals offer great value without sacrificing taste.

People are saying

"I found the tacos to be authentically made and delicious."

"I found the tacos here to be affordable and great."

Good to know

1

There is limited seating available both inside and outside.

2

Street parking can be challenging near the restaurant.

3

The burrito costs $13 and is similar in size to a Taco Bell burrito.

16
El Charro Mexican Food image 1
El Charro Mexican Food image 2
El Charro Mexican Food image 3
View all

Outdoor seating offers a laid-back beach atmosphere with a chill surfer vibe and views for people and bird watching. Music videos from the 80s add to the relaxed mood. Large portions of traditional Mexican food come at reasonable prices, with carne asada burritos and fries standing out.

Tacos come piled in a pyramid shape with a generous amount of filling including meat, cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes. Options like chicken, beef, adobada, carne asada, and fish offer crispy yet not overdone shells and full meals in each taco.

Food prices stay affordable compared to nearby spots. Service is quick and easy, keeping the overall experience budget-friendly.

People are saying

"The tacos are packed with meat and cheese, a full meal."

"I found the food to be tasty and affordable."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging during the summer due to high traffic.

2

The restaurant offers large portions at reasonable prices.

3

Enchiladas cost $28.00, which is on the higher side for Mexican food.

17
Valerie's Taco Shop - Pacific Beach image 1
Valerie's Taco Shop - Pacific Beach image 2
Valerie's Taco Shop - Pacific Beach image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant operates primarily as a 24-hour drive-thru with limited seating and a constant flow of cars. The atmosphere is hot inside but the place stays very clean. Known for affordable, satisfying burritos and tacos, it attracts locals looking for quick, reliable meals any time of day.

Carnitas street tacos stand out as seriously good and a favorite choice. The crispy chicken tacos and shredded beef tacos also deliver satisfying flavors. Burritos and tacos come with quick, friendly service, making it a solid spot for late-night taco runs.

Prices stay consistently affordable here. The place offers convenient and clean dining without stretching the budget.

People are saying

"I considered these the best carnitas street tacos I had."

"I found the prices to be really affordable and the food delicious."

Good to know

1

Valerie's Taco Shop is open 24 hours for late-night cravings.

2

The taco shop offers affordable prices for quick meals.

3

Cleanliness is a priority, with an A rating from health inspectors.

18
Jack in the Box image 1
Jack in the Box image 2
Jack in the Box image 3
View all

Fast food restaurant with worn-out interior and dim lighting creates a shady atmosphere. Crowded space feels oppressive due to partitions and security measures. Surroundings include ample parking but overall environment appears dirty and neglected.

Tacos come in $1-something deals that fill you up and serve as real comfort food. They offer a variety that pairs well with items like iced coffee and milkshakes.

Prices stay consistently affordable and align with typical fast food costs in the US. Menu items offer value comparable to other major chains.

People are saying

"I found the tacos to be the best and really tasty."

"I found the prices here to be really affordable."

Good to know

1

Accessing the bathrooms requires a password.

2

The bathrooms are often dirty and poorly maintained.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere due to its location near the train.

19
El Sabroso Taco Shop image 1
El Sabroso Taco Shop image 2
El Sabroso Taco Shop image 3
View all

Small, clean space offers a warm, family-friendly atmosphere with ranchera music playing at a comfortable volume. The crowd is steady despite the tucked-away, hole-in-the-wall setup. Known for authentic Mexican food with standout dishes like surf and turf burritos and flavorful fish tacos.

Fish tacos come fresh and crispy with cabbage slaw and a creamy white sauce. Birria tacos stand out as a must-have option, while tacos de Asada hit the mark with full flavor and filling portions.

Prices start out very affordable but have become very pricey lately.

People are saying

"I found the fish tacos here to be amazing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only accepts cash payments due to system issues.

2

Prices are very affordable, making it a great option for budget-friendly meals.

3

The restaurant is small, so seating may be limited during busy times.

Discover more

San Diego, California

Area guide