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.
Tacos showcase authentic Baja Cali Mexican flavors with homemade tortillas and fresh ingredients. Carne asada stands out as very authentic, complemented by a variety of great salsa choices.
Salsa options include a black bean salsa rated highly and a house-made pickled carrots addition at the salsa bar. The bar offers a variety of authentic Mexican salsas alongside homemade tortillas.
"The salsa bar has a delicious variety of fresh options."
"I found the authentic Mexican food here to be perfect."
Good to know
Taco Tuesday offers tacos for $2.99 each.
They have dedicated gluten-free fryers to avoid cross-contamination.
Parking can be challenging near the restaurant.
Food truck setup with charcoal grill aroma creates an authentic Tijuana-style taco experience. Atmosphere feels lively and festive with faint mariachi music, though outdoor seating is limited and tight. Bright, blue-shifted patio lights add a distinct visual element.
Tacos feature warm corn tortillas with a touch of oil and are loaded with toppings for a flavorful, authentic experience. The food reflects true Tijuana-style street tacos with a tortilla full of meat and genuine Mexican flavors.
Salsas come with a spicy kick and strong flavor. The salsa verde stands out for enhancing tacos. Chips and salsa taste fresh and the spiciest salsa offers a tolerable heat.
"I found the street tacos here to be authentic and delicious."
"The salsa here has a great spicy kick."
Good to know
Each taco costs $3.50, which is considered an exceptional value.
There are only a few seats available, and most people buy their tacos to go.
The dining area is dirty, which may affect your experience.
Bright colors and beautiful decor create an inviting space with both indoor and outdoor seating, including a cozy patio with heaters and cover. Atmosphere feels authentic and relaxing, suitable for casual dining with fresh air and friendly energy. A standout feature is the fantastic salsa bar offering a range of heat levels.
Fresh, soft, and flavorful tortillas highlight the authentic Mexican tacos and burritos here. Friendly owners focus on delivering quality, genuine flavors in every dish.
Homemade tortillas, chips, and salsas stand out here. The salsa bar offers a variety of fantastic salsas, including a medium green salsa and a red hot Chile de arbol hot sauce with strong flavor and heat.
"The authentic tortillas here are made from heirloom corn and taste amazing."
"The salsa bar is fantastic, with so many tasty options."
Good to know
Taco Time Cantina offers unique taco options not available anywhere else.
The chef makes everything daily from scratch with over 20 years of experience.
Expect a 2% credit card surcharge not listed on the menu.
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 here has a deep authentic flavor that stands out from other local spots. The food carries true Mexican taste and has earned an award for authenticity from a local publication.
Spicy and flavorful red salsa comes with limes, radishes, and corn tortillas dipped in meat broth. Salt is provided, which is rare and adds to the experience.
"I thought the food here was super authentic and flavorful."
"The staff's friendly and patient service made ordering Salsa easy."
Good to know
Parking is limited at La Central Birria and it can get busy.
They turned away more than 10 people while I was there.
They were out of birria at 1:15 and 1:30 PM, even though they closed at 2 PM.
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.
Tacos here have a very authentic Mexican flavor and fresh ingredients. Birria tacos stand out as delicious and true to tradition with a modern twist.
Salsa options come with a great selection and super tasty flavors. They offer choices for those who prefer less heat and even have a salsa bar with multiple options.
"I found all six salsas to be fantastic and tasty."
"I found the birria tacos to be authentic, tender, and juicy."
Good to know
On Tuesdays, a free taco is offered with meal combo orders.
Expect a lively atmosphere on Taco Tuesdays with many locals attending.
Parking is available nearby, but can fill up quickly during peak hours.
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.
Sweet people serve fresh authentic Mexican food with delicious carnitas tacos and perfect horchata that is not too sweet.
Salsa here tastes fresh and pairs well with the food. The flavors come through as delicious and complement the tortillas nicely.
"The salsas here are flavorful and complement the food well."
"The birria plate was epic and authentic Mexican food."
Good to know
$1.99 fish taco special is available, making it a great deal.
The taco shop has a drive-thru for convenient ordering.
Expect reasonable prices and good portion sizes.
Bright, open space with Mexican artistic decor and a colorful, festive atmosphere creates a family-friendly vibe. The setting is quiet and chill, making it comfortable for conversation and relaxed dining. A nice patio adds outdoor seating options.
Authentic Mexican juices and ices stand out alongside Mexican home cooking that tastes like grandma's. The Cafe de olla is sweet and rich without creamer, and the decor reflects genuine Mexican style.
Chips come with very good salsa, including a fresh pico de Gallo. Green salsa pairs well with the Caldo de pollo and corn tortillas.
"The Mexican home cooking here is authentic, just like grandma made it."
"The salsa here is really good."
Good to know
There is a big parking lot in the back.
Street parking is limited.
The prices were extremely reasonable.
Small space with heated outdoor seating and picnic tables creates a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere. Upbeat music adds to the chill vibe while friendly staff contribute to a comfortable experience. Outdoor seating offers a pleasant spot despite the surrounding urban grunge.
Food features authentic home-cooked flavors with ingredients sourced from Tijuana. The dishes deliver a genuine taste of SoCal tacos that stands out.
Green salsa stands out with a flavor that pops and makes taste buds tingle. Other salsas range from extremely flavorful to the hottest ever tasted, all adding great taste to tacos and chips.
"The salsas here are packed with authentic flavor."
"I found the food here to be truly authentic and home-cooked."
Good to know
Parking is limited in the downtown area, so arrive early.
Expect long wait times during peak lunch hours.
The restaurant does not have a restroom available for customers.
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 come breaded and large, staying true to Baja style. Rice and beans taste authentic and complement the tacos well.
Salsas come fresh and homemade with many options available for self-service. The habanero salsa stands out as particularly awesome and flavorful.
"I loved the self-serve salsa bar with so many flavorful options."
"The fish tacos are authentic Baja style and fantastic."
Good to know
On Tuesdays, enjoy $2.50 street tacos and two for $5 specials.
Happy hour features $3 pints and $6 margaritas from 2 to 6 PM and all day on weekends.
Outdoor seating is available for dogs.
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.
Tacos here deliver authentic Mexican flavors with fresh ingredients and great portions. Outdoor seating adds to the small, welcoming atmosphere.
Smoked tomatillo salsa stands out with its rich flavor. A salsa bar offers variety to complement dishes like birria and pollo tacos.
"The tacos here taste so authentic and flavorful."
"I had the best carne asada of my life."
Good to know
Taco Tuesdays offer a buy 2 get 1 free deal on tacos.
The restaurant is open until 3 AM for late-night eats.
Parking can be challenging since it's located in Gaslamp.
Warm interior with beautiful decor creates a welcoming atmosphere. Food arrives after a wait, reflecting authentic Mexican flavors served on fresh homemade tortillas. Seating is ample, and complimentary chips and salsa start the meal without alcohol service.
Pozole, menudo, and tacos deliver authentic Mexican flavors. The chile relleno is large and perfectly spiced without overwhelming heat.
Free chips come with flavorful salsa that is tasty but not spicy. The salsa options lack a very spicy choice.
"I found the Mexican food here to be so authentic and delicious."
"The mahi mahi taco's salsa had mango and chipotle."
Good to know
Good food takes time, and customers should expect a wait, similar to other sit-down restaurants.
Their tacos now come on freshly made corn tortillas at this location.
The prices at TODO PA' LA CRUDA weren’t bad.
Small Mexican restaurant with limited indoor seating and a sunny outdoor patio featuring tables under umbrellas. Atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, with a clean and modern design. A standout feature is the self-serve salsa bar offering a wide variety of options to customize meals.
Carne asada torta delivers an immaculate, authentic Mexican taste. Flour tortillas and salsas stand out with great authenticity.
A salsa bar offers a wide range of options with varying heat levels. Authentic flour tortillas come with great salsas to spice up food as much or as little as desired.
"The salsa options are excellent, with a spicy darker red one."
"I tasted authentic Mexican flavors in the immaculate carne asada torta."
Good to know
There are only 6-7 parking spots on site, and street parking is often full.
The price for a large California burrito is $11, which is reasonable.
They offer a large selection of Mexican dishes beyond just tacos.
Mexican restaurant with open market seating and plenty of outdoor patio space creates a chill, cozy atmosphere. Shared seating in a food hall setting offers a casual vibe with some quieter indoor tables. Energy stays relaxed, making it suitable for quick, quiet meals or casual gatherings.
Fresh ingredients create authentic Mexican flavors that stand out. The dining experience feels genuine and true to traditional recipes.
Salsas here are homemade and pack a spicy, flavorful punch. Everything tastes fresh and hits the mark perfectly.
"I found the food here to be really fresh and authentic."
"The salsa here is delicious and perfectly spiced."
Good to know
Tacos cost $5 each, making them an affordable option.
The restaurant is located one block off Old Town Avenue.
Free public parking is available across the street.
Restaurant offers a relaxed beachy vibe with authentic Mexican energy and lively music that keeps noise levels comfortable for conversation. Interior features stunning, detailed decor and a spacious, dog-friendly patio. Atmosphere suits both family outings and date nights, blending cleanliness with uplifting design.
Homemade tortillas and salsa add an extra special touch. The authentic Mexican seafood dishes bring flavors that feel like being in Mexico.
Homemade tortillas come with salsa de habanero that tastes delicious and stays mild on spice. The roasted habanero salsa stands out with its rich flavor that shines on its own.
"The roasted habanero salsa practically shines on its own."
"The mariscos here taste authentically Mexican, like being in Mexico."
Good to know
Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.
Parking is limited; expect challenges finding street parking nearby.
The restaurant has a dog-friendly patio for outdoor dining.
Bright walls showcase hand-painted murals and vibrant artwork that draw attention throughout the space. A self-serve salsa bar offers a variety of sauces and toppings, adding flavor options to meals. The atmosphere combines lively music with a casual, downtown vibe.
Tacos show authentic flavor with careful preparation and attention to detail. The setting supports a great vibe for enjoying authentic Mexican food.
Fresh mango salsa shines on the scallop taco. The salsa bar offers spicy homemade salsa, chipotle crema, and salsa verde that pair well with fillings like carne and octopus.
"The salsas here are fresh and flavorful."
"The tacos here have such an authentic flavor and great presentation."
Good to know
Parking is available around the corner from the restaurant.
The restaurant does not have public restrooms for customers.
Expect no wait to order on Sunday nights.
Small Mexican restaurant with cozy indoor and outdoor seating featuring colorful murals outside. Atmosphere feels lively and upbeat with good music playing, creating a friendly and festive vibe. The spot attracts people looking for authentic birria and mariscos in a casual, unassuming setting.
Authentic birria tacos and ceviche stand out as key dishes. The food captures true Mexican flavors clearly.
Salsas come in a good selection with great flavor. Both the dark green and light green salsas stand out as very flavorful.
"The salsas here are really flavorful and elevate the dishes."
"The food here is delicious and authentic."
Good to know
Ferchaladas birria & mariscos accepts only cash payments.
Expect to wait due to the busy atmosphere.
It is difficult to find parking.
Mexican restaurant offers casual and chill atmosphere with inside and outside seating including sidewalk dining. Salsa bar with various sauces and sports TVs create a lively yet relaxed vibe. Seating looks out onto city street, adding to the welcoming environment.
Offers authentic Mexican food with a focus on inexpensive dishes. Serves genuine flavors that stand out in the area.
Salsas come homemade and bright with a punchy flavor. A salsa bar offers a variety, and guests can take as much as they want for to-go orders.
"The salsas here are so fresh and delicious."
"I enjoyed the authentic Mexican food here."
Good to know
Each burrito costs $17, which may not be a good value for some.
The vegetarian burrito contains lard, making it unsuitable for strict vegetarians.
The restaurant is small, so expect limited seating and possible wait times.
Mexican restaurant offers a self-serve salsa bar with house-made salsas in various colors and spice levels. Atmosphere feels quiet and family-oriented with casual interiors and friendly service. Regulars enjoy flavorful meats and breakfast burritos praised for consistency and taste.
Authentic Mexican food shines here with home style flavors and flavorful dishes. The spot feels like a true hole-in-the-wall serving genuine Mexican cuisine at reasonable prices.
A fantastic salsa bar offers a wide variety of salsas, including a notable guacamole salsa. The salsas taste great and complement dishes like chili relleno well.
"The salsa bar here is fantastic with a great variety."
"I found the Mexican food here to be authentic and flavorful."
Good to know
Prices for meals are generally reasonable, with burritos costing around $12 each.
The restaurant offers a salsa bar with a good variety of salsas.
Portion sizes are generous, providing good value for the price.
Taco restaurant with Mexican atmosphere and neon lights sets a fun, lively vibe with Spanish music playing. The space stays clean and bright, offering authentic tacos with handmade tortillas and generous portions. It blends Mexican and Haitian flavors, creating a unique fast food experience.
Tacos here taste authentic and fresh, capturing the flavor of Tijuana. Carne asada fries also deliver a great-tasting and genuine Mexican experience.
Red salsa stands out with its amazing flavor. Salsa verde offers a spicy kick and rates highly for taste. Meals come with chips and salsa, paired well with homemade tortillas.
"The tacos here are authentic and taste like Mexico."
"The fried carne asada had a rich, smoky flavor."
Good to know
Parking is tough, so arrive early to find a spot.
Prices are surprisingly good for the large portions offered.
The food portions are very large, perfect for sharing.
Simple taco shop near a busy trolley stop offers huge portions and affordable prices. Atmosphere feels typical but can be uneasy due to groups loitering outside. Known for authentic Mexican food and late hours making it accessible for quick stops.
Mexican dishes here offer authentic flavors and a delicious taste that stays true to tradition. The cuisine consistently delivers a genuine experience.
Red salsa stands out with its bold flavor and nice spiciness. Salsa verde comes in a generous cup alongside Chile torreados and lemon wedges.
"I found the Mexican food here to be authentic and delicious."
"I thought the red salsa was the best."
Good to know
Azteca Taco Shop is conveniently located near the train station.
There is no step up or down at the shop, making it accessible for wheelchair users.
The prices at Azteca Taco Shop are affordable and reasonable.
Mexican restaurant with authentic atmosphere and a fragrant patio dining area filled with jasmine flowers. Spacious, well-lit interior features a salsa bar offering unlimited green salsa. The vibe is lively and reminiscent of Guadalajara, with large servings and affordable prices.
Food delivers authentic Mexican flavors with genuine quality. Atmosphere complements the authentic vibe well.
Salsas stand out with a variety including a red salsa that impresses even those who usually avoid it. A salsa bar offers green salsa and cilantro salsa that enhance dishes like burritos with carne asada and shrimp.
"The salsa bar here is great, with a good selection."
"I found the food here to be authentic Mexican."
Good to know
Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially from 2-4 PM.
The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian options on the menu.
Prices are generally affordable, with large portion sizes.
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.
Food delivers authentic Mexican flavors with simple, well-made dishes. Beans and rice come packed with full flavor that matches home-cooked meals.
Salsas here are freshly made and spicy, with a standout green salsa that packs a punch. The salsa roja also adds a flavorful kick that complements the dishes well.
"The Mexican food here is so authentic and delicious."
"Their salsas are so flavorful and fresh."
Good to know
The wait at Don Carlos Taco Shop is usually short, even during rush hours.
There is limited seating available at Don Carlos Taco Shop.
Don Carlos Taco Shop offers a variety of menu options, including vegan choices.
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 and burritos come with fresh corn tortillas and feature nopal tacos that stand out for their authentic flavor.
A salsa bar offers a variety of options with a standout avocado salsa verde and a popular green salsa. The salsas are consistently delicious and well-crafted.
"I thought the burritos here were incredible."
"I had the best authentic tacos and burritos I've ever had."
Good to know
Watch out for long wait times during the lunch rush.
The restaurant offers generous portions for the price.
Homemade tortillas are used in all dishes.
Stylish interior combines with live music and a small bar to create a fun, relaxed vibe. The atmosphere feels like a family gathering with authentic Mexican flavors filling the air. Known for pork and cochito tacos, the place offers a casual, authentic dining experience.
Bold, authentic flavors fill every bite. The atmosphere feels genuine, though the food aligns more with casual Mexican spots than traditional fare.
Salsas come in a sampler that offers a variety of flavors while waiting. They have a spicy kick and pair perfectly with fresh tortillas and juicy meats.
"The salsa here is spicy and hits the spot."
"The authentic flavor in every bite was unforgettable."
Good to know
The restaurant offers a Tuesday 3x1 deal on mini cochino tacos.
Expect a 10-minute wait for taco orders during busy hours.
The menu features a limited selection of authentic Mexican dishes.
Colorful Mexican taco shop with cramped outdoor seating and minimal indoor space. Atmosphere includes obnoxious music and a grimy, unappealing look. Known for authentic Mexican street food and large, flavorful burritos.
Small taco shop serves real Mexican food with authentic breakfast burritos. Salsas add rich, genuine flavors to the dishes.
Salsas bring great flavor and kick to dishes like the milanesa torta and breakfast burrito. Both red and green salsas are very tasty and enhance authentic flavors in items like the Rancho and Carne Asada burritos.
"The salsa has a great flavor and a kick."
"It's an authentic taco shop with great Mexican food."
Good to know
Expect limited seating inside, especially during peak hours.
Prices for tacos start at $6 each, with two simple meat tacos costing $12.
There is no parking available nearby; most customers walk or use public transport.
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, tortas, and quesadillas deliver authentic Mexican flavors with rich, traditional seasoning. Bottled Mexican Coke complements the meal, enhancing the genuine dining experience.
"The salsa bar here is the best in town."
Good to know
Street parking is extremely tough during peak hours.
Parking can get tricky when the restaurant gets busier.
There is a surcharge for card use, so I recommend bringing cash.
Modern, hip décor with a bright white chandelier creates an elegant but cozy atmosphere. The space stays quiet even on busy nights, making it good for conversation. Authentic Mexican flavors pair well with excellent tequila and mezcal cocktails.
Food tastes like authentic homemade Mexican cuisine with fresh ingredients. Vegan versions of traditional dishes offer unique, flavorful options.
A large bowl of spicy salsa comes with the chips for $10. The salsa is flavorful and pairs well with the crispy chips. A side of extra spicy salsa is available to add more kick.
"The food here tastes so authentic and flavorful."
"The chips and salsa were on point."
Good to know
Happy hour offers great drink deals and tasty plates from 4-7pm on weekdays.
Parking can be difficult on weekends, especially in North Park.
There is a policy regarding gift card redemption that may cause issues.
Simple, authentic Mexican restaurant with homemade tortillas and a clean salsa bar. Atmosphere feels welcoming and lively with mom and pop energy and music adding to the vibe. Known for generous portions and tender carne asada tacos, it stays open late when few others do.
Food comes with authentic flavor and is made with care. Nachos stand out for their great flavor. Drinks include authentic Mexican sodas and fresh in-house juices. The atmosphere feels very genuine.
A salsa bar offers mild, medium, and hot options with great flavor and spice. The green salsa stands out as thick and citrusy, while the fresh salsas are well kept and delicious.
"The salsas here are delicious, with great flavor and spice."
"The tacos here are so authentic and flavorful."
Good to know
El Charro Taco Shop is open 24/7, making it a late-night food option.
Each taco costs $6.50, providing a budget-friendly meal choice.
The burrito is under $15, offering good value for a filling meal.
Mexican restaurant with order-at-the-counter setup and a self-serve salsa bar offering a variety of salsas including pickled carrots and jalapeño. Atmosphere feels casual and quiet, often empty, with a focus on authentic Mexican dishes like birria tacos, pozole, and burritos praised for flavor and quality.
Authentic Birria stands out with rich, traditional flavors. The fish taco plate offers consistent freshness and genuine Mexican taste.
Multiple types of salsas are available for self-service, including pickled carrots and jalapeño salsa. The salsa bar features a variety of green salsas that are consistently excellent and flavorful.
"I loved the variety of tasty salsas, especially the green ones."
"I found the food to be authentic and delicious."
Good to know
Taco Tuesday deals are available from 10 AM to 8 PM only.
Cash is the preferred payment method; credit cards may not be accepted.
The restaurant often closes unexpectedly, so call ahead to confirm hours.