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Guide to San Diego

Al pastor tacos

Made for those who judge a taco shop entirely by the authenticity and seasoning of its al pastor.

Based on 665 Opinions
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01
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Small, charming Mexican restaurant with handmade tortillas and a varied salsa bar. Inside seating features traditional decorations like piñatas and mellow yellow lighting, creating a friendly, authentic vibe. The atmosphere feels lively and welcoming, reflecting a family-run, homely energy.

Fish tacos stand out with fresh, full flavor. Varieties like carne asada, shrimp, and pastor also taste fantastic. Every taco is consistently delicious and highly recommended.

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

"I thought the tacos here were the best I ever had."

"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.

02
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Small seafood spot with tight seating and a mix of indoor and outdoor counters creates a casual, lively vibe. Music plays well, adding to the fun atmosphere where people gather for unique fish tacos and creative margaritas with agave wine.

Fish tacos stand out with blackened swordfish and a Mexican Coke slaw that adds a crisp touch. Shrimp tacos use coconut shrimp for a unique flavor, while al pastor tacos balance spice and sweetness well.

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

"These fish tacos are outstanding and worth the wait."

"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.

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Remodeled space with open kitchen view and standing tables only creates a clean, inviting atmosphere. Outdoor seating includes bright yellow umbrellas and a bar area, encouraging a casual, social vibe. The place draws a crowd looking for freshly grilled tacos in a trendy, friendly setting.

Al Pastor taco stands out with perfect seasoning and fresh ingredients. Carne asada tacos come with fresh guacamole and bold flavors. Tacos arrive hot and show clear care in preparation.

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 carne asada taco was tender, flavorful, and buttery."

"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.

04
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Mini sports bar with indoor and outdoor seating offers a help-yourself salsa bar and free chips. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming with comfortable seating and lively music. Serves large portions of fresh Mexican food including all-day breakfast burritos and beer on tap.

Fish battered tacos stand out with a crispy texture and fresh flavor. Rolled tacos and street tacos offer a great taste and solid flavor punch, especially paired with ceviche trio and michiladas.

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

"I loved their street tacos, especially al pastor and carne asada."

"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.

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Mexican restaurant with fresh, authentic flavors and a salsa bar offering various sauces. Interior feels cool and inviting despite simple seating, creating a casual atmosphere. Known for generous portions and well-prepared meats, it attracts those who value flavor and freshness.

Tacos come with corn tortillas and feature fillings like Al Pastor, Carnitas, and cabeza. The chef brings over 30 years of experience, making the tacos consistently delicious and flavorful.

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 tacos here to be extremely good."

"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.

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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.

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 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.

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Narrow space with rail seating and a self-serve salsa bar offers a casual, hole-in-the-wall vibe. Atmosphere feels humble and welcoming, though seating can be cramped. Outdoor tables provide a pleasant alternative when weather allows.

Carne asada tacos stand out with rich seasoning and savory flavor. Other options like quesabirria, al pastor, and tacos de trompo also deliver strong, authentic tastes.

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 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.

08
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Modern taco shop with an open kitchen and handmade tortillas creates a clean, cozy atmosphere filled with lively music. The space offers ample seating and a vibe that blends authenticity with contemporary style. Known for authentic tacos and micheladas that echo Tijuana flavors.

Asada, Suadero, and Adobada tacos stand out for their flavor and quality. The tacos offer a distinctive taste that many find exceptional in the city.

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."

"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.

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Small hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant with canteen-style seating and outdoor tables offers a lively, authentic atmosphere reminiscent of old 70s establishments. Noise levels rise at night, creating an inviting, energetic vibe. Known for excellent tacos and burritos with freshly made tortillas and standout lengua tacos.

Tacos here stand out for their tender lengua and flavorful asada. Options like chicken, fish, shrimp, carnitas, and al pastor all deliver authentic, delicious flavors.

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 had the best tacos of my life here."

"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.

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Small space with stainless steel tables and a flame grill creates a lively, inviting atmosphere. Patrons enjoy authentic Mexican tacos with fresh handmade tortillas and a self-serve salsa bar. The vibe feels like home despite limited parking and simple surroundings.

Tacos here stand out for their adobado, birria, and buche options, all packed with rich flavor. Shrimp tacos also shine as a favorite, making this spot a go-to for solid, tasty Mexican tacos.

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 I'd had in San Diego."

"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.

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Space is extremely narrow with limited seating, mostly standing room and a small counter. Atmosphere feels crowded and lively, with Mexican music playing and customers often brushing shoulders. Guests can watch homemade tortillas being prepared and enjoy a serve-yourself salsa bar.

Shrimp and Al Pastor tacos stand out with bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Beans come without lard, and mushroom tacos satisfy those seeking a unique option.

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

"I thought the tacos here were amazing and worth trying."

"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.

12
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Spacious interior with Dia Los Muertos themed décor creates a relaxed confidence and a bright, clean atmosphere. Music varies from chill to loud, influencing the vibe from calm to lively. Seating offers comfort and space, welcoming solo diners and lunch breaks without pressure.

Adobada (pastor) tacos stand out with authentic flavors and quality meat. The crack tacos and grilled fish taco also deliver consistent, delicious taste.

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."

"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.

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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.

Tacos and burritos feature al pastor with a delicious flavor that stands out. The al pastor ranks better than many other spots but varies slightly from top favorites.

People are saying

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

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.

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Walk-up window with outdoor seating creates a casual, lively vibe with authentic streetside décor. Small tables on the sidewalk invite a simple, inviting atmosphere near the beach. The place draws people looking for generous portions of highly regarded burritos and tacos.

Tacos here offer authentic street style flavors with standout options like carne asada and carnitas. Taco Tuesday features several tacos at a low price, making it easy to try different varieties.

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 Al Pastor tacos are tender, juicy, and awesome."

"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.

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Outdoor seating dominates with four and two-top tables under an open door that warms the space. A salsa bar adds a lively touch, complementing the homemade tortillas and generous portions that define the menu. The atmosphere balances casual dining with affordable prices and a steady lunch rush.

Tacos come with massive portions and do not skimp on the meat. The carne asada and nopal tacos stand out for their authentic flavors.

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 I've ever had."

"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.

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Open air design with huge windows creates a spacious feel. Live mariachi band and large bar add lively energy, though music can be loud. Crowd varies from easy-going to rowdy, especially near entrance at dinner.

Street tacos stand out with tender Tacos de Lengua and al pastor that many find very good. The fish taco also ranks as a favorite among the options.

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 tacos here are really good and huge."

"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.

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Modern, hip interior blends with outdoor seating and bar swings to create a lively atmosphere. Music plays loudly, energizing the space with a vibrant vibe. Patrons enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine alongside well-made margaritas and unique cocktails in a setting that balances warmth and trendiness.

Tacos come in many varieties like al pastor, pork belly, and chicken mole, all praised for their flavor. Cauliflower tacos stand out as a must-try, and the happy hour deals make the tacos even more appealing.

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

"I loved the fresh birri tacos."

"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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Outdoor seating under heat lamps creates a casual, festive vibe with loud music and lively energy. Small space features pop-up style canopies and benches styled like Tijuana. Shuttle service via golf cart or ATV helps navigate limited parking.

Tacos feature freshly made tortillas and meats like asada, adobada, and el pastor that are perfectly seasoned. Friendly staff provide amazing customer service alongside consistently delicious food.

Marinated al pastor meat comes well seasoned with a light grill flavor. Corn tortillas are freshly made and super soft, adding to the full flavor of the tacos.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were amazing, truly the best."

"The Al Pastor tacos are full of flavor and juicy."

Good to know

1

Parking is very limited, so consider carpooling or visiting during off-peak hours.

2

The wait time for tacos can be around 35 minutes during busy times.

3

Chula Tacos does not accept card payments; cash is required.

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