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New Yorkers 1st Choice
San Diego's best

Al pastor

Made for those who track down the specific spit-roasted pork preparation that defines their standard for a proper taco.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot shines with soft Al Pastor tacos and fresh ingredients. Casual vibe with futbol on TV and a salsa bar suits groups and study sessions. Affordable prices and hard-shell potato tacos make it a tasty, budget-friendly choice.

Soft tacos feature Al Pastor with a tender, flavorful profile. They serve it alongside other meats like carnitas and carne asada, offering a solid choice for taco variety.

People are saying

"The food here is perfect, especially the creamy horchata."

"The salsa bar had a good range of choices, with mango being a favorite."

"I loved the Al Pastor tacos here."

Good to know

1

Street parking can be limited, so arrive early.

2

The restaurant has ample seating for groups.

3

Prices are affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.

02
Mission Baja Tacos image 1

Small Mexican spot shines with handmade tortillas and a lively salsa bar. Al Pastor tacos and burrito offer tender, flavorful meat that impresses every time. Warm, authentic vibe with traditional decorations makes it feel like home.

Tender and flavorful Al Pastor tacos stand out alongside the Al Pastor burrito, which comes highly praised even without cilantro. Both options deliver a consistently phenomenal taste.

People are saying

"The tacos here are delicious and brimming with meat and toppings."

"The salsa bar has a delicious variety of fresh options."

"The Al Pastor tacos are tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers tacos for $2.99 each.

2

They have dedicated gluten-free fryers to avoid cross-contamination.

3

Parking can be challenging near the restaurant.

03
La Perla #3 image 1
Restaurant

Small Mexican spot with a mom and pop vibe offers cozy, lively seating. Al Pastor is extremely fresh and shines in tacos and burritos. Tacos are gluten-free, perfect with rice and beans for a casual, authentic meal.

Al Pastor stands out for its extreme freshness and comes in both tacos and burritos. The tacos are gluten-free and pair well with rice and beans.

People are saying

"I had the best California burrito I’ve ever had."

"The carne asada tacos were flavorful and juicy."

"The Al Pastor taco was amazing and worth trying."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers tacos for $2.50 each with a discount.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait during peak hours, especially on Fridays.

3

Parking is limited with only 5-7 spots available; street parking may be necessary.

04
Tacos El Franc – Gaslamp Quarter image 1

Modern taco shop offers handmade tortillas and a lively vibe with authentic tacos. Al Pastor shines with grilled pineapple adding sweet flavor. Enjoy Tijuana-style micheladas in a cozy, clean space.

Tacos come with grilled pineapple on top, adding a sweet touch. Al Pastor shows up in mixed dishes like the Vampiro mixta with carne asada. The flavor stands out consistently.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were the best hands down."

"The tacos here are authentic Tijuana-style with handmade tortillas."

"I was not disappointed with the Al Pastor tacos."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak hours; reservations are not accepted.

2

Parking is challenging on 5th Avenue; consider using public transport.

3

Prices are high; expect to pay around $44 for four tacos and a mulita.

05
Saco's Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot shines with fresh flavors and a lively salsa bar. Mini tacos pack rich Al Pastor that beats other meats. Casual vibe and generous portions make it a top pick for flavor lovers.

Street mini tacos come loaded with rich Al Pastor. The flavor stands out among favorites like Carnitas and cabeza.

People are saying

"I found the California burrito to be amazing and five stars."

"I found their tacos to be authentic, fresh, and flavor-packed."

"The Al Pastor here was loaded with flavor."

Good to know

1

They offer 99¢ tacos on Tuesday and 3 for $7 all week long.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere on Taco Tuesdays due to the great deals.

3

Parking is limited, so consider street parking or arriving by rideshare.

06
La Vecindad Neighborhood TACOS image 1

Colorful outdoor seating and kitsch Mexican decor create a lively vibe. Al Pastor tacos shine with bold flavor and quality. Unique salsa bar and flavorful micheladas add fun to the casual, spacious setting.

Al Pastor tacos stand out for their flavor and quality. They pair well with other options like carnitas and pescado, making them a popular choice to return for.

People are saying

"I ate the best tacos I have ever eaten here."

"The Bisteces Rancheros seafood is so good, my tastebuds went wild."

"I had the best Al Pastor tacos I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers 2 tacos for $8 and $9 house margaritas.

2

Happy hour runs Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 3 to 6 pm.

3

Each canned or bottled soda is priced at $4.

07
El Viejon Seafood image 1
Seafood restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood in a lively, tropical setting with authentic drinks that capture a Mexican coastal vibe. Cozy seating invites relaxed chats without noise. Try the mango habanero taco for a flavorful, budget-friendly Al Pastor option.

$4 Al Pastor tacos come in pairs and offer a cheap option. The mango habanero taco with al pastor is perfectly cooked and flavorful.

People are saying

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh and flavorful."

"The seafood tacos here are the best I've ever had."

"The Al Pastor tacos are tender, tasty, and fruity with pineapple."

Good to know

1

Parking at the restaurant can be a challenge, especially on weekends.

2

Expect a 20-minute wait during peak hours due to limited seating.

3

Each taco costs around $6-8, with larger sizes available.

08
La Perla Cocina #2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Hole-in-the-wall taco shop offers phenomenal al pastor flavor and freshly cooked meat in a simple, no frills setting. Expect long wait times due to made-to-order food and higher prices. California burritos shine as a signature choice.

Al pastor burritos stand out with their phenomenal flavor and are a consistent choice alongside carne asada. Portion sizes have become smaller but the taste remains strong.

People are saying

"The California burrito here is massive and amazing."

"The seafood burritos here are outstanding and juicy."

"You have to try the phenomenal Al Pastor burritos here."

Good to know

1

The burrito costs $14.00 without tip.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours.

3

Parking is almost nonexistent at both locations.

09
Sara's Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Walk-up window with outdoor seating offers a lively, casual vibe near the beach. Tender al pastor tacos deliver balanced, juicy flavors, while the al pastor burrito is a flavorful favorite. Generous portions make it a top spot for burritos and tacos.

Tender, juicy al pastor tacos offer perfectly balanced flavors that stand out. The al pastor burrito packs even more flavor and often replaces the tacos as a preferred choice.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing and the portions are incredible."

"I thought their burritos were the best I'd ever had."

"The Al Pastor tacos were tender, juicy, and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has limited seating capacity, so plan accordingly.

2

Taco Tuesday offers tacos for $2.49 each, a great deal.

3

Sara's Mexican Food is open late for late-night cravings.

10
Tacaliente Mexican Grill image 1

Open dining space with bright murals and TVs sets a casual tone. Al pastor tacos shine with corn tortillas and rich flavor, served affordably. Self-serve salsa bar with hot carrots adds fun, making it great for relaxed meals with friends and family.

Al pastor tacos come with corn tortillas and offer a delicious flavor even without pineapple. The al pastor appears in tacos and burritos, both noted for being very tasty and affordable.

People are saying

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

"The fish tacos here feel like family thanks to Matthew's warm welcome."

"The Al Pastor tacos here are especially tasty."

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.

11
Taquería Los Chuchys image 1
Taco restaurant

Narrow space with rail seating and a self-serve salsa bar creates a casual vibe. Al pastor shines with full flavor and perfect grilling. Outdoor tables offer a pleasant spot when weather allows.

Al pastor stands out with its full flavor and perfect grilling. It pairs well with other tacos but often steals the show on its own.

People are saying

"I thought the carne asada tacos were some of the best I've ever had."

"The carne asada burrito here is humongous and fully satisfying."

"The Al Pastor here is full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays offer a buy 2 get 1 free deal on tacos.

2

The restaurant is open until 3 AM for late-night eats.

3

Parking can be challenging since it's located in Gaslamp.

12
La Reyna Del Sur Mariscos 2 image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood shines with fresh condiments and large portions served from a lively food truck. Taco al pastor offers well-seasoned pork that pairs well with fish tacos. Limited seating means you often stand, enjoying free seafood soup that adds a unique touch.

Taco al pastor features well-seasoned pork with a good balance of flavors. It pairs well with other items like the Tostada Loka and fish tacos.

People are saying

"I found the fish tacos here to be the best in San Diego."

"I loved the garlic shrimp tacos; they were amazing."

"I tried the Al Pastor and it was very good."

Good to know

1

Seating and parking are both limited at the food truck.

2

They offer a free cup of seafood stew with my order.

3

The food was very affordable.

13
Crack Taco Shop image 1
Taco restaurant

Spacious interior with Dia Los Muertos décor sets a bright, clean mood. Al pastor tacos shine with tender pork and a sweet pineapple twist. Seating is comfy and open, perfect for solo diners or quick lunch breaks.

Tender pork with a sweet pineapple infusion and a nice crisp char defines the al pastor tacos here. The al pastor fries stand out as best around for their flavor.

People are saying

"The tacos have fresh, house-made tortillas and generous guacamole."

"I found the Mexican food here to be authentic and made with high-quality ingredients."

"The Al Pastor tacos were tender, juicy, and nicely charred."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour offers $3 tacos from 3 to 5 pm.

2

Ask about food if you have allergies or dietary restrictions.

3

The restaurant has a rewards program for discounts on future visits.

14
Crest Taco image 1
Taco restaurant

Remodeled space with open kitchen view offers a clean, inviting vibe. Al Pastor tacos shine with rich flavor and tender meat. Outdoor seating with bright yellow umbrellas creates a casual, social spot perfect for enjoying freshly grilled tacos.

Al Pastor tacos stand out for their rich flavor and tender meat. The Al Pastor burrito offers a satisfying, well-seasoned option with a good balance of ingredients.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is made with genuine care and warmth."

"I loved the rich flavors of their fantastic salsas."

"I thought the Al Pastor taco was the best I had ever eaten."

Good to know

1

Crest Taco offers a limited menu of high-quality tacos, burritos, and quesadillas.

2

Fish tacos are available for $1.99, making them a budget-friendly option.

3

The restaurant is open late on weekends, perfect for late-night cravings.

15
Robert's Jalapenos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mini sports bar offers fresh Mexican food with large portions and all-day breakfast burritos. Al pastor tacos shine with flavorful meat on fresh corn tortillas, paired perfectly with salsa verde. Cozy vibe with indoor and outdoor seating makes it welcoming.

Al pastor tacos come with fresh corn tortillas and pair well with salsa verde. The meat is flavorful and served alongside other options like carne asada and carnitas.

People are saying

"The salsa verde here is great, and the staff is super friendly."

"This breakfast burrito is packed with great chorizo flavor."

"I found the Al Pastor tacos to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Robert's Jalapenos serves breakfast burritos all day.

2

Taco Tuesday offers great deals on food.

3

The establishment is clean and well-maintained.

16
La Fachada image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small hole-in-the-wall spot offers authentic atmosphere with lively noise at night. Al pastor tacos shine with rich, savory flavor and fresh tortillas. Outdoor tables add charm while lengua tacos provide a standout choice for adventurous eaters.

Al pastor tacos deliver rich, savory flavor in every bite. They pair well with delicious tortillas and stand out alongside shrimp and Pollo options.

People are saying

"I thought La Fachada had the best Mexican food in San Diego."

"I found the handmade tortillas to be fresh and light as clouds."

"The al pastor tacos were delicious and hit the spot."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash payments; Zelle and Venmo are also options.

2

The establishment closes at 3:00 am, catering to late-night visitors.

3

Parking is available, but the lot is very small.

17
El Paisa Fresh Mexican Grill image 1

Open air design with huge windows creates a lively space. Al Pastor burrito shines with excellent taste and rich ingredients. Live mariachi band adds lively energy but can be loud, matching the crowd's mix from easy-going to rowdy.

Al Pastor tacos offer solid flavor and good quality. The al pastor burrito stands out with excellent taste and a satisfying blend of ingredients.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the carne asada, melts in your mouth."

"I had a spiritual experience with the seafood burrito; it was delicious."

"The Al Pastor tacos here are excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited and tight.

2

You must order tacos in sets of three, similar to Tijuana style.

3

Expect higher prices than advertised.

18
Tacos Asadero image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small taqueria serves authentic TJ-style tacos with an open kitchen and a cozy, well-decorated space. Thin shaved al pastor cooks perfectly, offering standout flavor. Quality cheese and toppings add to the traditional taco shop vibe.

Thin shaved al pastor cooks the right way, delivering authentic flavor. Tacos come out perfect and stand out compared to other spots.

People are saying

"The tacos here are delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"The food here is authentic, with amazing street tacos and birria."

"I found the Al Pastor tacos to be delicious and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $4 per taco.

2

Prices can reach $20 for a meal with tacos and a drink.

3

Limited seating is available, but many order to-go.

19
Fish Guts image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood spot buzzes with lively vibe and tight seating. Al pastor salmon tacos offer a perfect spice-sweet balance. Creative margaritas shine with agave wine and an Al Pastor twist.

Al pastor tacos balance spice and sweetness perfectly. The al pastor salmon stands out as amazing, and the menu also features Al Pastor margaritas.

People are saying

"I had the best beer battered fish tacos I ever had."

"The house-made tortillas here are excellent and taste super fresh."

"The al pastor tacos had the right amount of spice and sweetness."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-45 minute wait for your tacos after ordering.

2

Seating at Fish Guts is limited, so arrive early.

3

They may run out of menu items, especially during peak hours.

20
The Taco Stand image 1
Taco restaurant

Space feels narrow and lively with Mexican music and a salsa bar. Al pastor tacos shine with rich, sweet flavor topped by pineapple. Guests watch fresh tortillas made on site, adding to the authentic vibe.

Rich and slightly sweet al pastor comes topped with a slice of pineapple. Tacos and burritos offer exceptional flavor and pair well with the sauce bar for added taste.

People are saying

"These tacos are worth the wait; they're the best in San Diego."

"You must try the California burrito; it's excellent."

"The Al Pastor tacos have crispy, caramelized edges and remain tender."

Good to know

1

The Taco Stand operates as an order-and-go type place with no seating available.

2

Parking can be challenging at The Taco Stand.

3

I recommend ordering ahead because they get busy.

21
Tacos El Panson image 1
Taco restaurant

Small space with flame grill offers lively vibe and fresh handmade tortillas. Al pastor tacos are authentic but opinions on flavor vary. Self-serve salsa bar adds to the homey feel despite simple surroundings.

Al pastor tacos come with mixed reviews here. Some find them excellent and traditional, while others feel they lack strong flavor compared to other tacos.

People are saying

"I thought these were the best tacos in San Diego."

"The salsa bar here is the best in town."

"I thought their Al Pastor tacos were the best in the area."

Good to know

1

Street parking is extremely tough during peak hours.

2

Parking can get tricky when the restaurant gets busier.

3

There is a surcharge for card use, so I recommend bringing cash.

22
Taquería Los Ruiz image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating with open door warmth creates a casual vibe. Al pastor shines in non-marinated style and fresh tortilla bowls. Generous portions and a lively salsa bar keep the lunch rush steady and prices affordable.

Al pastor comes in a version that is not marinated as expected. Plates with al pastor and carnitas stand out. Salads with al pastor or chicken arrive in a freshly made, light tortilla bowl.

People are saying

"I had the best authentic tacos and burritos ever."

"The tortillas here are fresh and well-toasted."

"The al pastor here is insanely good."

Good to know

1

Watch out for long wait times during the lunch rush.

2

The restaurant offers generous portions for the price.

3

Homemade tortillas are used in all dishes.

23
TACO CENTRO image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot shines with fresh tortilla making and a lively atmosphere that shifts from warm to loud. Al Pastor tacos stand out with pineapple flavor and unique texture. Extensive salsa bar offers many sauces, while the outdoor patio provides a calm dining option.

Tacos feature very flavorful Al Pastor with a different texture than typical pork versions. The Al Pastor comes with piña and works well in both tacos and bowls.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food, especially the tacos, to be spectacular."

"The salsa bar offered a great variety of phenomenal, fresh salsas."

"I ordered the Al Pastor tacos and they had lots of meat."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $5 beers on Taco Tuesdays from 6 PM.

2

Taco specials are available on Tuesdays and game days.

3

Expect the restaurant to be busy on Taco Tuesdays, around 75% full.

24
Cocina 35 Brunch image 1

Super fancy dining room with Instagramable decor and a lively vibe hosts energetic crowds enjoying unique Mexican pastries and a full bar with standout cocktails. Al Pastor dishes shine with 3-chile salsa adding a spicy kick to tender pork and grilled pineapple.

Chilaquiles feature tender pork and grilled pineapple with a secret sauce that blends well with homemade tortilla strips. The Al Pastor dishes come with a 3-chile salsa that adds a spicy kick.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and bursting with authentic flavor."

"Jesi made my brunch experience so worthwhile and attentive."

"Jesi made the Al Pastor experience so worthwhile and attentive."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect to wait 1 to 2 hours for a table on weekends without a reservation.

3

The atmosphere can be loud due to frequent birthday celebrations.

25
URBANA Mexican Gastronomy & Mixology image 1

Modern, hip spot with lively atmosphere and outdoor bar swings. Enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine featuring bold, crispy al pastor tacos and nachos. Drinks shine with well-made margaritas amid vibrant music and trendy vibes.

Al pastor appears in tacos and nachos with bold flavors and a crispy texture. Some servings show inconsistent quality, with occasional burnt edges and low cheese.

People are saying

"You have to try the birria tacos; they're so fresh and yummy."

"I loved the yummy cocktails and the giant ice cubes."

"You have to get the al pastor tacos with a margarita."

Good to know

1

URBANA offers happy hour deals daily from 2 to 4 pm, including weekends.

2

Taco Tuesday features $5 tacos, making it a popular choice.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure good service.

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