Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in San Diego

Carne asada and guacamole

A generous serving of guacamole alongside carne asada is the only way to do it right.

Based on 850 Opinions
+847
User
User
User
Updated
01
Roxy’s Tacos image 1
Roxy’s Tacos image 2
Roxy’s Tacos image 3
View all

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.

Carne asada shines in quesadillas, fries, and tacos here, all tender and well-marinated. Burritos come large and flavorful, with options like Cali style carne asada and shrimp.

Guacamole comes with a perfect balance in the burrito and pairs well with crispy rolled tacos. It complements the solid meat in regular-sized tacos and enhances the flavor of tasty salsas.

People are saying

"I thought the Carne Asada quesadilla was the best I ever had."

"The guacamole here is delicious and seasoned well."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited in the downtown area, so arrive early.

2

Expect long wait times during peak lunch hours.

3

The restaurant does not have a restroom available for customers.

02
The Waves Taco Club image 1
The Waves Taco Club image 2
The Waves Taco Club image 3
View all

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.

Carne asada here is cut and trimmed in-house, ensuring a tender and juicy steak with zero fat. It shines in dishes like fries and tacos, all seasoned beautifully and consistently excellent.

Fresh and balanced guacamole adds complexity to the meal. Warm, perfectly seasoned chips complement the guacamole well.

People are saying

"The Carne Asada tacos here are amazing and full of flavor."

"The guacamole here is super fresh and balanced."

Good to know

1

Parking is available around the corner from the restaurant.

2

The restaurant does not have public restrooms for customers.

3

Expect no wait to order on Sunday nights.

03
Mission Baja Tacos image 1
Mission Baja Tacos image 2
Mission Baja Tacos image 3
View all

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.

Juicy Carne Asada shines in both tacos and burritos here. Burritos come large, often lasting multiple meals, and beans can be added for extra filling.

Fresh, cold guacamole comes in generous portions and tastes homemade. It pairs well with crispy tacos and charred Carne Asada, adding a delicious, fresh touch to the dishes.

People are saying

"The carne asada tacos were packed with flavor and very good."

"The guacamole here is so fresh and generously portioned."

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.

04
Mike's Taco Club image 1
Mike's Taco Club image 2
Mike's Taco Club image 3
View all

Rustic, hip Mexican restaurant with tiny indoor seating and pet-friendly outdoor patio offering a beach view. Atmosphere is laidback and authentic with lively music that can make conversation challenging. Popular for its highly regarded burritos and tacos.

Massive burritos pack grilled carne asada, crispy fries, and fresh guacamole. Carne asada fries stand out as well-seasoned and among the best in the area.

Guacamole appears in several dishes, often paired with grilled carne asada, fresh pico de gallo, and flaky tortillas. It complements items like the California Burrito, Cali Burritos, and seafood tortas, adding a creamy, fresh element.

People are saying

"I thought this Carne Asada burrito was the best I ever ate."

Good to know

1

They close at 10 pm.

2

On weekdays, there is no wait to be seated.

3

Parking can be hard to find, but street parking is available nearby.

05
Sayulitas Mexican Food image 1
Sayulitas Mexican Food image 2
Sayulitas Mexican Food image 3
View all

Small, clean space with about three tables inside offers a full salsa bar featuring a variety of fresh salsas. Burritos are large enough for two people and come in unique fusion flavors. Atmosphere feels cozy but can be uncomfortable due to limited seating.

Savory carne asada appears in several dishes like tacos, tortas, and fries. The Pacman Burrito mixes sweet tocino with carne asada for a flavorful combo.

Guacamole comes in a good portion and is abundant in dishes. It pairs with fresh pico and adds to the overall flavor, though it can sometimes affect the taste balance with the meat.

People are saying

"The carne asada here is massive and very good."

"The guacamole here is good and fresh."

Good to know

1

The regular size burrito costs $14 for a bean and cheese.

2

Hot Cheetos carne asada fries are $17.99, and two chicken taco plates are $18.99.

3

The portion sizes are generous, often enough for two people.

06
Emiliano's Mexican Restaurant and Cantina image 1
Emiliano's Mexican Restaurant and Cantina image 2
Emiliano's Mexican Restaurant and Cantina image 3
View all

Dining spaces include a covered terrace and a greenery-filled back patio overlooking a golf course. Atmosphere stays lively and comfortable, with delightful music enhancing the experience. The setting suits casual meetups and relaxed meals with a welcoming vibe.

Carne asada dishes come flavorful and well-cooked here, including tacos and a full plate. Carne asada fries offer a delicious twist on the classic.

Made in-house, the guacamole comes fresh with dishes like Pollo Super nachos and fajitas for two. It pairs well with verde sauce and complements plates loaded with meat, cheese, and beans.

People are saying

"I had the best guacamole and verde sauce here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available most days, especially on Mondays.

2

Margaritas are offered at reduced prices during happy hour.

3

Parking can be inconvenient and difficult to navigate.

07
Food Bowl Market & Deli image 1
Food Bowl Market & Deli image 2
Food Bowl Market & Deli image 3
View all

Large, modern grocery store with a well-stocked deli and butcher counter offers fresh produce and premade foods. Atmosphere feels friendly and pleasant with courteous workers, though the store is notably cold inside. Serves as a key neighborhood market with quality meats and flavorful deli items.

Carne asada tacos and burritos come packed with serious flavor and plenty of fixings. The burrito tastes delicious and the tacos are a favorite choice.

Good to know

1

The market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meat, and pantry items.

2

Expect a clean and well-organized shopping environment.

3

The butcher counter provides high-quality meat options, including carne asada.

08
Robert's Jalapenos image 1
Robert's Jalapenos image 2
Robert's Jalapenos image 3
View all

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.

Carne asada stands out for its tenderness and rich flavor. Dishes like the carne asada burrito and nachos come in generous portions with quality ingredients like melted cheese, beans, and guacamole.

Generous portions of guacamole come with tacos and carne asada chips. Free guacamole is provided, often paired with extra meat and fresh toppings like lettuce and sour cream.

People are saying

"The Carne Asada here is so flavorful and tender."

"They were generous with the guacamole."

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.

09
Pichudo Mexican Grill image 1
Pichudo Mexican Grill image 2
Pichudo Mexican Grill image 3
View all

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.

Carne asada fries stand out with a crispy texture and rich flavor that avoids greasiness. The menu also features a Pichudo Burrito and tacos combining chicken and carne asada for varied options.

People are saying

"The carne asada fries are crispy, rich, and satisfying."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 3-6 pm with half-price tacos and draft beers.

2

Taco Tuesday features 50% off tacos and $5 margaritas during happy hour.

3

Parking is limited with no street parking available.

10
Roberto's Taco Shop image 1
Roberto's Taco Shop image 2
Roberto's Taco Shop image 3
View all

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 come in large portions and taste authentic. The carne asada fries feature crispy fries loaded with plenty of meat, guacamole, and cheese.

Plenty of fresh guacamole appears on dishes like carne asada fries, Adobada tacos, and burritos. Guacamole adds a creamy, rich layer to crispy rolled tacos and chicken tacos with extra cheese.

People are saying

"I found the Carne Asada burritos to be among the best."

"The crispy chicken tacos with guacamole made me exclaim in delight."

Good to know

1

There are only 6-7 parking spots on site, and street parking is often full.

2

The price for a large California burrito is $11, which is reasonable.

3

They offer a large selection of Mexican dishes beyond just tacos.

11
Tijuanazo San Diego image 1
Tijuanazo San Diego image 2
Tijuanazo San Diego image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant offers authentic street tacos with standout asada and adobada flavors. Atmosphere feels like a family gathering with a comfortable, casual vibe. Seating suits small groups, and the place maintains a lively, genuine energy.

Carne asada tacos come with large portions and well-cooked, seasoned meat. Fresh tortillas and tasty guacamole complement the authentic Tijuana-style flavor.

Guacamole comes fresh and tasty, served with well-seasoned carne asada and fresh tortillas. It often appears on the side to avoid soggy tacos, showing attention to presentation and flavor balance.

People are saying

"The carne asada tacos are so authentic, just like Tijuana."

"Their guacamole was delicious and tasty."

Good to know

1

Parking at Tijuanazo San Diego can be a challenge; plan accordingly.

2

They charge 75 cents for salsa, so budget for extras.

3

The prices at Tijuanazo San Diego are generally reasonable for the area.

12
Blanco Cocina + Cantina image 1
Blanco Cocina + Cantina image 2
Blanco Cocina + Cantina image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant with an open floor plan and large windows creates a bright, airy feel. Outdoor patio seating with heaters offers a comfortable spot even in cooler weather. The vibe suits a younger crowd, blending stylish decor with a lively atmosphere.

Steak comes out tender and flavorful in dishes like burritos, fajitas, and tacos. Meals often include jack cheese and chili sauce, making them filling and tasty.

Creamy guacamole features a balance of flavors with roasted poblanos and caramelized onions. It comes with top-notch chips and salsa and often arrives in generous portions.

People are saying

"The guacamole here is creamy, fresh, and perfectly balanced."

"I loved the carne asada tacos; they were my favorite dish."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2-4pm on weekdays and all day on Tuesdays.

2

The bar area offers a special happy hour menu with great options.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

13
Taquería Los Chuchys image 1
Taquería Los Chuchys image 2
Taquería Los Chuchys image 3
View all

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 features well seasoned, flavorful meat that stands out in tacos, burritos, and quesatacos. Tacos come stuffed to the brim and deliver a perfectly cooked experience.

Generous portions of guacamole serve up to four people. The guacamole tastes fresh and well-made.

People are saying

"I had the best carne asada of my life here."

"I found the guacamole to be traditional and unique."

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.

14
Armando's Mexican Food image 1
Armando's Mexican Food image 2
Armando's Mexican Food image 3
View all

Restaurant offers 24-hour service with a basic, well-lit atmosphere and loud music that competes with kitchen sounds. Burritos are large and flavorful, especially the California burrito and carne asada fries. The setting feels a bit worn but serves classic San Diego-style Mexican food.

Tender, perfectly seasoned carne asada tops hot, crispy fries in generous portions. Burritos pack in cheese, guacamole, and sour cream alongside the carne asada for a filling meal.

Rolled tacos come loaded with finely grated cheese, crispy crunch, and generous guacamole. The Super California Burrito packs a big mix of carne asada, fries, cheese, guacamole, and sour cream.

People are saying

"The carne asada fries are generous and never soggy."

"The rolled tacos are stuffed with lots of cheese and guacamole."

Good to know

1

Armando's Mexican Food is open 24 hours for late-night cravings.

2

The restaurant is for takeout only, with no seating available.

3

Prices are fair, and portions are generous for the cost.

15
Ortiz's Taco Shop image 1
Ortiz's Taco Shop image 2
Ortiz's Taco Shop image 3
View all

Small, family-owned Mexican restaurant with a simple, no-frills setup. Atmosphere feels casual and efficient, with quick service despite limited space. Known for authentic tacos and best California burritos, it draws a steady crowd seeking affordable, high-quality Mexican food.

Carne asada here has terrific texture and is well seasoned. Burritos come with lots of meat and the carne asada fries stand out as favorites.

Chicken mini tacos come with generous guacamole, onions, and scallions. Guacamole appears in a good amount alongside sour cream. The California burrito includes guacamole as a standard topping now.

People are saying

"I'm pleased to say the Carne Asada quality remains as terrific as ever."

"I enjoyed the guacamole on the burrito."

Good to know

1

Parking is tough due to the limited lot size, which has barely 12 spaces.

2

If the parking lot is full, consider parking at the Plaza next door.

3

To save time, call in your order at least 15 minutes prior for fast pickup.

16
El Charro Taco Shop image 1
El Charro Taco Shop image 2
El Charro Taco Shop image 3
View all

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.

Carne asada comes smoky and flavorful with tender, well-seasoned meat. Options include big, filling tacos, burritos, and fries that stand out for their taste and size.

Guacamole comes in a surprisingly large portion and sometimes includes tomatillos. It can be mixed with mayonnaise or a similar ingredient, which affects the taste.

People are saying

"The Carne Asada here is so tender and smoky."

"The carne asada here is smoky and flavorful."

Good to know

1

El Charro Taco Shop is open 24/7, making it a late-night food option.

2

Each taco costs $6.50, providing a budget-friendly meal choice.

3

The burrito is under $15, offering good value for a filling meal.

17
Palmitos Mexican Eatery image 1
Palmitos Mexican Eatery image 2
Palmitos Mexican Eatery image 3
View all

Small indoor space with a covered patio offers a quiet, chill atmosphere where locals and workers come and go throughout the day. A fully stocked salsa bar adds freshness to the experience. The vibe stays relaxed with a steady flow of people and a friendly, welcoming energy.

Carne asada stands out for its perfect flavor and quality. Dishes like carne asada fries with nacho cheese and tacos consistently deliver satisfying meals.

Extra guacamole comes with burritos and tacos, adding a creamy, fresh touch. Burritos often include eggs, hash browns, and fresh jalapeños alongside guacamole for a rich flavor mix.

People are saying

"I found the carne asada to be the most amazing."

"I added fresh jalapeños or Serranos and guacamole to my burrito."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features $1.99 tacos, making it a popular choice.

2

The restaurant serves breakfast all day, catering to various schedules.

3

Expect large portion sizes, ideal for sharing or a hearty meal.

18
Brothers Mexican Restaurant image 1
Brothers Mexican Restaurant image 2
Brothers Mexican Restaurant image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant with dark lighting and loud music creates a relaxing yet lively atmosphere. Known for authentic carne asada and generous portions of carne asada fries and street tacos. Shared wall with a sushi spot affects layout, and parking can be challenging.

Carne asada here features tender, flavorful steak with perfect seasoning that stays juicy, not dry. Dishes like the carne asada fries and smothered burritos come with generous portions and fresh toppings like guacamole and pico de gallo.

People are saying

"The carne asada here is tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Online ordering is available for convenient takeout options.

2

Parking can be challenging in the Adams Avenue corridor.

3

The restaurant is open until 10 pm on Saturdays.

19
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.

Carne asada here is tender and tasty without fat or gristle. Large portions come in dishes like Carne Asada fries and a huge quesadilla, plus options like a Surf and Turf Burrito with shrimp and guacamole.

People are saying

"The Carne Asada fries were delicious with nacho cheese."

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.

20
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.

Marinated for three days, the carne asada delivers flavor-packed, tender steak wrapped in soft corn tortillas with fresh onion and cilantro. The carne asada fries feature perfectly seasoned steak and stand out as a flavorful must-try.

Fresh guacamole appears inside dishes like quesadillas and potato flautas, often paired with sour cream and pico de gallo. It balances well with crispy textures and sometimes dominates the filling, making it a key flavor component.

People are saying

"The Carne Asada fries are so good, the fries stay crispy."

"The guacamole and sour cream were packed inside my quesadilla."

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.

21
Lucys Taco Shop image 1
Lucys Taco Shop image 2
Lucys Taco Shop image 3
View all

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.

Carne asada comes in huge tacos with double corn tortillas, guacamole, and pico de gallo for $5.99. Burritos and plates offer generous portions, often served with green salsa and guacamole.

Tacos come with guacamole as a topping, paired with pico de gallo and sour cream on some dishes. Portions of guacamole tend to be small, which is common here.

People are saying

"The Carne Asada tacos were huge with guacamole and pico de gallo."

"The guacamole here is delicious and perfectly crisp."

Good to know

1

Expect limited seating inside, especially during peak hours.

2

Prices for tacos start at $6 each, with two simple meat tacos costing $12.

3

There is no parking available nearby; most customers walk or use public transport.

22
Señor Taquero 2 image 1
Señor Taquero 2 image 2
Señor Taquero 2 image 3
View all

Small Mexican restaurant offers a bright, cozy atmosphere with self-serve chips and salsa that stand out. Food features authentic tacos and burritos with fresh ingredients and generous portions. Space tends to be hot and humid, but prices remain affordable.

Carne asada appears in several forms like tacos, plates, and burritos. It pairs with other items like adobada and shrimp, showing variety in preparation and serving styles.

Freshness stands out with the guacamole and salsa tasting very fresh and tasty. Some burritos include guacamole and cheese, which adds flavor, though not all orders have these consistently.

People are saying

"I loved the carne asada tacos; they were delicious and fresh."

"The guacamole and salsa were so fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

The prices at Señor Taquero 2 are affordable for Mexican cuisine.

2

The serving sizes at Señor Taquero 2 are generous.

3

There is sanitizer available on every table for cleanliness.

23
Sombrero Mexican Food image 1
Sombrero Mexican Food image 2
Sombrero Mexican Food image 3
View all

Large dining room offers a quiet seating area with a solid salsa bar featuring multiple salsa options. Atmosphere feels family-oriented and clean, with good vibes and simple, engaging surroundings. Open 24 hours, it attracts steady crowds and provides fast food delivery with good prices.

Carne asada dishes feature tender juicy steak with generous portions. Options include carne asada fries served with guacamole and a carne asada burrito packed with steak.

Fresh guacamole comes without onion and appears in every bite, not just the middle. Rolled tacos and carne asada fries often include guacamole paired with cheese or sour cream for extra flavor.

People are saying

"I was so full after the Carne Asada burrito."

"You get guacamole in every bite, even the last."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers $1 off every taco.

2

The restaurant accepts EBT payments inside only, not at the drive-thru.

3

Sombrero Mexican Food is open 24 hours for late-night cravings.

Discover more

San Diego, California

Area guide