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.
Big and filling, the burritos come with creative fillings like smoked tuna, grilled mahi mahi, and crispy calamari. The California burrito stands out for its flavorful and tasty profile, all at a reasonable price.
Quesadillas come in large portions that are good for sharing. Options like Pollo Adobo and xtra-cheesy giant stand out for flavor and size.
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.
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.
Burritos come huge and flavorful, often bigger than a forearm and enough for two meals. The Cali burrito features rich, tender beef and stands out as a filling, tasty option.
Red quesadillas stand out with beef birria, cheese, cilantro, and onions. They taste rich and are made to perfection.
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.
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.
Burritos feature crispy meat and bold flavors, especially the tatemado style. They pair well with tacos de birria and come with a side of consommé.
Complimentary quesadillas showcase the kitchen's confidence in their quality. Tortas and quesadillas both stand out as amazing options here.
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.
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.
Burritos here stand out for their healthful approach and rich flavors. Options like the machaca, bean and cheese, and veggie burritos receive consistent praise for taste and quality.
Steak quesadillas come packed with flavor and the shrimp quesadillas taste fantastic. Carne Asada quesadillas stand out as awesome options.
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.
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.
Large burritos feature tender carne asada and generous fillings like shrimp and grilled beef. Options include breakfast burritos with spicy sauce and surf and turf combinations with extra rice and beans.
Carne asada quesadillas stand out with rich flavor and tender meat. Chicken quesadillas also offer a great taste. Both options come highly recommended.
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.
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.
Burritos come generously portioned and fresh, often loaded with charred Carne Asada and guacamole. Options include shrimp, beef, and chicken, with sides like salsas and pico de gallo from the salsa bar.
Quesadillas come in large portions with options like carne asada, chicken, and gobernador shrimp. The cheese quesadilla stands out as especially flavorful and well-loved by all ages.
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.
Small, cozy Mexican restaurant with a quiet, relaxed atmosphere and a welcoming, family-style vibe. Offers handmade corn tortillas and authentic dishes in a neat, casual setting with both indoor and puppy-friendly outdoor patio seating.
The burritos stand out for their large size and rich beef birria in the wet version. Vegetarian and all meat options both deliver strong flavors, with the California burrito noted for its memorable taste.
Chicken quesadillas stand out with rich flavor and great appeal. The birria quesadilla offers a delicious twist, and the kids' quesadillas are popular choices.
Good to know
Parking can be difficult to find near the restaurant.
The portions are larger than most places for the price.
The restaurant is known for its authentic birria tacos.
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.
Surf and turf burrito stands out for being generous and hearty with seriously delicious flavors. Fish and carne asada burritos use high quality ingredients and are seasoned perfectly, offering authentic Mexican taste.
Quesadillas come big and cheesy, often made with white cheese. The birria quesadilla stands out as a flavorful choice. Mushroom quesadillas also appear on the menu when available.
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.
Food truck setup offers fresh Mexican tacos with homemade salsas and vegetarian options. Atmosphere feels homey and pairs well with the adjacent brewery, creating a casual spot for eating and drinking. Ordering involves a self-service kiosk, though it can be inefficient at times.
Burritos feature well-seasoned meat cooked on a flat top and a nice tortilla that holds its shape well. Options like the surf and turf and California burrito come with generous fillings and guacamole at no extra charge.
Good to know
Most tacos cost about $3.99, making it an affordable option.
The food truck has shaded outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying your meal.
Catering services are available for events, providing a convenient option for large groups.
Small space with simple decor and a self-serve salsa bar offers a fresh, lively atmosphere. Background music keeps energy up while seating accommodates a steady flow of guests. Known for authentic street tacos and generous burritos, it stands out for quality and variety.
Burritos come large with an abundance of ingredients like soft fries, melted cheese, and guacamole. Options include carne asada, shrimp, and veggie varieties, all well constructed and filling.
Quesadillas come in generous portions, with the Birria pizza resembling a large birria quesadilla sliced into about 10 pieces. Pricing matches the guacamole at $6, making the quesadilla a solid value option.
Good to know
Californias Taco Shop is takeout only, so plan accordingly.
Expect to pay around $28 for a dinner for two.
Parking can be tough during busy weekday lunch hours.
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.
Burritos here come in large sizes with over 2 pounds available for just over $20. The crunchy chipotle breakfast burrito stands out as a favorite, and the quality and size remain consistent post Covid.
Quesadillas come in large portions with options like the Carne Asada and Sonora, which includes chicken, cheese, guacamole, bacon, and Ortega chiles. The menu also offers adventurous choices like the tuna quesadilla.
Good to know
Taco Tuesday offers 3 tacos and a drink for $6.
Expect large portions, often enough for two or three meals.
Credit cards accepted, but there's a $0.30 fee for using them.
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.
Burritos feature juicy, tender pork and crispy roasted skin pieces that add texture. Options like the Machaca breakfast and Cochito burritos come with pico and guacamole and offer a good size for around $12.
Quesadillas come with cochito tatemado and asada options. The asada quesadilla stands out as a solid choice.
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.
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.
Burritos here are huge and packed with protein and cabbage. Options like the red snapper burrito offer a light, fresh, and crispy experience wrapped in a perfect flour tortilla, while the hot cheeto carne asada burrito stands out for its spicy kick.
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.
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.
Burritos come in really good portions with a wide variety of traditional fillings. Options like the deluxe California burrito and the Hot Cheeto Burrito stand out for their flavor and seasoning.
Offers a variety of quesadillas including birria, soyrizo, and mushroom options. Al pastor meat pairs well with cheese in their quesadillas, delivering satisfying flavor combinations.
Good to know
The restaurant has limited seating capacity, so plan accordingly.
Taco Tuesday offers tacos for $2.49 each, a great deal.
Sara's Mexican Food is open late for late-night cravings.
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.
Burritos come large and packed with flavorful meat like pastor and carne asada. Options include the California burrito and bean and cheese with French fries, all known for being delicious and satisfying.
Quesadillas come with tender carne and a buttery, cheesy filling. Options include carne asada with avocado and birria quesadilla tacos, often served with salsa and guacamole.
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.
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.
Generously sized California burritos come fully loaded with chicken and a variety of delicious Mexican sauces. A wide selection of salsas lets you mix flavors with each tasty bite.
Huge quesadillas come with a good flour tortilla and a balanced amount of cheese. Both chicken and cheese quesadillas stand out as excellent and well-portioned options.
Good to know
They offer 99¢ tacos on Tuesday and 3 for $7 all week long.
Expect a busy atmosphere on Taco Tuesdays due to the great deals.
Parking is limited, so consider street parking or arriving by rideshare.
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 burritos stand out with fresh ingredients and solid flavors. The Surf and Turf burrito offers a full flavor experience, while the California burrito and deluxe breakfast burrito provide filling, tasty options.
Huge quesadillas come with soft, juicy carne asada that can be greasy but tasty. Chicken and cheese quesadillas include peppers and onions, which might surprise some.
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.
Food truck setup with outdoor seating and loud Mexican music creates a lively street food vibe. Friendly staff offer complimentary soup while waiting, enhancing the casual experience. Known for highly rated seafood tacos, it attracts seafood lovers despite occasional long waits and limited parking.
Spicy shrimp and Angus beef burritos come piping hot with great flavor. The San Felipe burrito feels filling without heaviness and pairs well with other seafood dishes.
Seafood quesadillas stand out with options like spicy seafood mix, smoked fish, and garlic octopus. These quesadillas offer a Latin flavor that pairs well with tacos and burritos.
Good to know
Taco Tuesday offers a special deal on tacos.
Expect long wait times for food during peak hours.
Parking is challenging due to the busy street.
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.
Breakfast burritos feature hashbrowns and consistently fresh, flavorful ingredients. The El Rey burrito stands out with a great char on the tortilla and rich taste.
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.
Garden-style seating overlooks a river, creating a spacious outdoor setting with a warm, rustic-modern vibe. Soft jazz music plays, enhancing a relaxed and elegant atmosphere. The place feels well run and comfortable, offering breakfast all day in a clean, beautifully decorated space.
Burritos feature crisp fresh vegetables and strong-flavored meat. Lunch options include a SoCal burrito and fish tacos.
Cheese quesadillas come beautifully plated and taste quite good. Shrimp quesadillas appear as appetizers, sometimes with blackened chicken on top, and can be customized by removing shrimp.
Good to know
Parking is easy and available nearby.
The restaurant serves breakfast all day.
Happy hour starts at 2 PM with special pricing.
Outdoor patio with fire pits and heat lamps creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Mostly outdoor seating blends with a full bar and fun music for a lively, comfortable vibe. Organic, fresh ingredients complement the modern, pleasant setting.
Burritos feature blue corn masa and come perfectly proportional with fillings like Mexican Gulf wild shrimp and grass-fed steak. The red chile rice inside has a loose consistency and pairs well with a spicy salsa and lime aioli, creating a balanced, flavorful bite.
Good to know
Happy hour runs daily from 3-6 pm with half-price tacos and draft beers.
Taco Tuesday features 50% off tacos and $5 margaritas during happy hour.
Parking is limited with no street parking available.
Small dining area offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with loud festive music and self-serve salsa bar. Plenty of seating suits large groups, creating a lively yet relaxed vibe. Clean and open space feels like a home away from home.
Breakfast burritos come big and flavorful with delicious salsa options. Bacon adds a tasty touch, making them a scrumptious choice for any meal.
Carne asada quesadillas come in large portions and can be hard to finish. Corn tortilla quesadillas, or mulitas, are available for gluten-free diets. Some quesadillas receive mixed reviews, but options include surf and turf varieties.
Good to know
Taco Tuesday offers special deals that attract many guests.
Parking frequently gets tight in this strip mall.
There is a 50-cent fee to use debit cards.
Hole-in-the-wall Mexican eatery with a small patio off a main road offers a chill atmosphere and easy parking. Large portions and a 24/7 open schedule attract those seeking generous servings and fast Mexican food. A salsa bar adds a fresh touch to the straightforward setup.
Burritos come huge and packed with tons of ingredients, including meat, shrimp, and vegetarian options. The breakfast and fish burritos stand out for being fresh and delicious, with some versions served with fries.
Quesadillas come in a wide variety here, including the adobada quesadilla. They serve as a meal unto themselves with hearty fillings.
Good to know
Vallarta Express is open 24/7, making it convenient for late-night cravings.
Parking is ample and easy at Vallarta Express.
Drive-through service is available for quick orders.
Small, intimate Mexican restaurant with colorful festive decor and a vibrant Día de los Muertos atmosphere. The place feels homelike and welcoming, often packed with a lively crowd. Known for authentic micheladas and standout traditional dishes like pozole and birria.
Shrimp and surf and turf burritos offer distinct flavors with no guacamole included. Carne asada burritos cost around $15, and breakfast burritos stand out as notably good.
Quesadillas come with generous fillings like beef birria and asada. Portions are large and the flavor is consistently delicious.
Good to know
Parking can be tricky at times, so arrive early.
Expect a wait time of about 45 minutes during peak hours.
Taco Tuesday offers three tacos for $9, a good deal.
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.
Tri-tip burrito stands out with rich flavor and pairs well with the Cardiff Crack sauce. The breakfast burrito offers a satisfying start to the day, complemented by quality guacamole and churros.
Tri Tip stands out in the quesadillas, especially the crack (tri-tip) version. They come with guacamole and sour cream, though sometimes these extras are missing.
Good to know
Happy Hour offers $3 tacos from 3 to 5 pm.
Ask about food if you have allergies or dietary restrictions.
The restaurant has a rewards program for discounts on future visits.
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.
Burritos here pack bold flavors with options like carne asada and chile relleno standing out. They offer to cut burritos in half and pack leftovers to-go, showing attention to detail.
Grilled chicken quesadilla includes guacamole and sour cream inside, not on the side. Chicken pieces are small, with most filling from the toppings. Menu lists protein, cheese, sour cream, and pico de gallo as ingredients.
Good to know
Taco Tuesday offers four tacos for $7 starting at 2 PM.
Happy hour runs from 4 to 8 PM with fish tacos at $1.29 each.
They accept credit cards only; no cash payments.