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.
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.
Mexican restaurant with a family-run atmosphere and humble decor offers a casual, homey vibe. The place is cash-only and popular for its authentic, flavorful dishes like carne asada and homemade salsa.
Grilled over a wood-fired parilla, the carne asada has a distinct smoky flavor. Carne asada burritos and plates run around $20 and stand out among other dishes like rolled tacos and tamales.
Guacamole comes fresh and pairs well with tacos and salsa. It adds a creamy texture and bright flavor that complements the crispy beef and beans.
Good to know
The restaurant only accepts cash payments, so bring cash when visiting.
Seating is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.
They are closed on Sundays, so plan your visit accordingly.
Family-run taco spot offers authentic street-style Mexican food with handmade tortillas and generous portions. Atmosphere feels homey and inviting, reflecting a neighborhood vibe rather than mass production. Flavors focus on well-seasoned meats like carne asada and adobada, paired with fresh salsas.
Carne asada here is very flavorful and made with good cuts of meat. It pairs well with fresh guacamole and stands out in tacos and burritos.
Fresh, creamy texture defines the guacamole here. Adding chipotle dressing, cilantro, and onion blends flavors smoothly and balances the dish well.
Good to know
The portions are generous and offer great value.
The price is reasonable for the quality of food.
Parking is a bit tight, so arrive early.
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.
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.
Cozy hole-in-the-wall with a communal atmosphere featuring a long table, festive lights, and candles. The vibe is friendly and family-oriented, with authentic Mexican decor and calming jazz music in the morning. The space feels welcoming and comfortable, inviting guests to relax and enjoy.
Carne asada burrito stands out for its flavor and size. Quesabirria tacos and carne asada fries also deliver solid, consistent taste across tortas and tacos.
Guacamole comes freshly made to order in a molcajete, chunky and authentic. It arrives with freshly fried, unsalted tortilla chips, so a salt shaker might be needed.
Good to know
Happy hour fish or shrimp tacos are available on Wednesday and Thursday from 5 to 8 pm.
Parking can be difficult and frustrating in the area.
There is easy side street parking available nearby.
Outdoor seating with a family-run atmosphere creates a cozy, peaceful vibe where kid drawings and handwritten menus add a traditional Mexican style. The place feels like eating at home, with a warm, welcoming energy and affordable prices that offer good value.
Carne asada fries stand out with rich flavor and satisfying texture. Burritos and tacos offer creamy beans that add extra texture and depth.
Guacamole comes freshly made with a perfect texture. It pairs with fresh pico de gallo loaded with cilantro and chopped onions.
Good to know
Taco Tuesday offers special deals on tacos every week.
The restaurant has outdoor seating only.
Parking is available on the street, as the lot can fill up quickly.
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.
Carne asada tacos and carne asada fries stand out with strong flavor. The menu also features carne asada quesadilla tacos and tostadas that deliver solid taste.
Tasty guacamole adds a fresh, creamy touch to dishes. It pairs well with the Adobada Taco, which features tender pork and vibrant red adobo.
Good to know
Expect long wait times during peak hours; reservations are not accepted.
Parking is challenging on 5th Avenue; consider using public transport.
Prices are high; expect to pay around $44 for four tacos and a mulita.
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.
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.
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.
Juicy, meaty Carne Asada tacos stand out with fresh, tender cuts. The Carne Asada quesadilla and nachos also feature this flavorful meat, making it a key part of several dishes.
Fresh guacamole comes with the azada plate and as a chips side. It has a smooth texture and a mild flavor, though some might want more heat.
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, hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant with a mom and pop vibe and authentic atmosphere. Indoor seating feels cozy but congested, with a lively and loud environment during busy times. Tables arranged like a fast food spot, creating a casual, low-key dining experience.
Grilled tortilla wraps well-seasoned carne asada with crispy fries and balanced guacamole. Tacos and nachos feature packed meat with onion and cilantro for solid flavor.
Extra guacamole comes with the carne asada and adds a creamy touch. Nachos and guacamole pair well with great flavor. Fish dishes include guacamole alongside rice and beans.
Good to know
Taco Tuesday offers tacos for $2.50 each with a discount.
Expect a 30-minute wait during peak hours, especially on Fridays.
Parking is limited with only 5-7 spots available; street parking may be necessary.
Small Mexican restaurant with authentic charm and colorful decorations creates a cozy, family-friendly vibe. Two patios offer outdoor seating with a cool, breezy atmosphere. Music and a full bar add to the relaxed, local feel.
Carne asada appears in tacos, burritos, and plates, all noted for their delicious flavor. It pairs well with other items like carnitas and Baja fish tacos.
Guacamole comes as a side with many dishes like the Parrillada and Corn Flautas. It pairs well with tacos, burritos, and appetizers, adding a fresh, creamy touch to meals.
Good to know
Parking is difficult due to its location on a residential street.
There is a 3% credit card fee that is not disclosed before charging.
An additional service fee is added at the end of the bill.
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.
Fresh meat stands out in the carne asada dishes here. The carne asada burrito and taco with fresh guacamole both deliver strong, tasty flavors.
Smooth, creamy guacamole comes fresh and perfectly balanced. It pairs well with tender carne asada in tacos and burritos, adding a buttery, flavorful touch.
Good to know
Crest Taco offers a limited menu of high-quality tacos, burritos, and quesadillas.
Fish tacos are available for $1.99, making them a budget-friendly option.
The restaurant is open late on weekends, perfect for late-night cravings.
Small Mexican restaurant with open kitchen and fresh tortilla making visible from inside. Atmosphere shifts from warm and inviting to loud music on busy days, with an outdoor patio offering a quieter option. Extensive salsa bar provides a wide variety of sauces to complement the food.
Carne asada stands out with generous steak portions and full flavor. The carne asada fries come with a green avocado sauce that adds a unique touch.
Fresh chips come with guacamole that is creamy and flavorful. Tacos and burritos often include guacamole along with onions, salsa, and cilantro. Guacamole is served even when not requested on tacos.
Good to know
Happy hour offers $5 beers on Taco Tuesdays from 6 PM.
Taco specials are available on Tuesdays and game days.
Expect the restaurant to be busy on Taco Tuesdays, around 75% full.
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.
Good to know
Parking at Tijuanazo San Diego can be a challenge; plan accordingly.
They charge 75 cents for salsa, so budget for extras.
The prices at Tijuanazo San Diego are generally reasonable for the area.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Good to know
Armando's Mexican Food is open 24 hours for late-night cravings.
The restaurant is for takeout only, with no seating available.
Prices are fair, and portions are generous for the cost.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Good to know
The regular size burrito costs $14 for a bean and cheese.
Hot Cheetos carne asada fries are $17.99, and two chicken taco plates are $18.99.
The portion sizes are generous, often enough for two people.
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.
Good to know
Robert's Jalapenos serves breakfast burritos all day.
Taco Tuesday offers great deals on food.
The establishment is clean and well-maintained.
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.
Good to know
Happy hour runs from 2-4pm on weekdays and all day on Tuesdays.
The bar area offers a special happy hour menu with great options.
Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.
Classic Mexican restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating including a garden patio. Atmosphere mixes a 1940s vibe with occasional loud order announcements, creating a unique but sometimes startling environment. Features a salsa bar and homemade tortillas, adding to its traditional appeal.
Carne asada here stands out for its tenderness and flavor, especially in the burrito and tacos. The carne asada burrito tastes more like a bistek de carne but remains delicious and satisfying.
Chips come with amazing guacamole and salsa that many find delicious. Guacamole is very good and generously used, especially on crispy taquitos.
Good to know
Happy hour menu includes $3.50 for two street tacos and $5 margaritas.
Taco Tuesday features special deals on tacos.
Parking is available across the street in a dedicated lot.
Small, clean space offers a quiet, chilled atmosphere with live music adding to the vibe. The menu includes vegetarian options and creamy chilaquiles, with reasonable prices and good portion sizes. High chairs and a kids menu make it family-friendly.
Carne asada appears in tacos, burritos, and combo plates paired with items like shrimp, fish, and mole sauce. It features alongside mix and match tacos, Surf & Turf, and rolled tacos, often served with chips and salsa.
Staff make fresh guacamole batches to accommodate allergies, like leaving out cilantro. Guacamole appears on tacos and replaces lettuce in rolled tacos, offering a customized and flavorful touch.
Good to know
The restaurant offers a breakfast menu that includes creamy poblano chilaquiles.
Expect to pay $1 for sour cream and $2 for cheese additions.
Prices are generally reasonable, with good portion sizes.
Hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant with a narrow setup and hardwood chairs offers a self-serve salsa bar and fresh-made dishes. Atmosphere stays positive during rushes despite simple decor and a TV in the dining area. Known for affordable prices and standout items like Menudo and large burritos.
Carne asada fries come with refried beans and pico de gallo instead of guacamole. They taste delicious and are very filling. Carne asada chips and burritos also offer good flavor.
Guacamole comes with a creamy texture and appears in dishes like burritos alongside pico de gallo and sour cream. It also pairs well with crispy fries.
Good to know
The prices at El Patron Taco Shop are very affordable.
The food is made fresh when ordered, not frozen.
There is plenty of parking and inside seating available.
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.
Good to know
Taco Tuesday offers $1 off every taco.
The restaurant accepts EBT payments inside only, not at the drive-thru.
Sombrero Mexican Food is open 24 hours for late-night cravings.
Lively restaurant with colorful decor and upbeat Latino music that creates a high-energy atmosphere. Spacious layout includes a large bar offering a wide selection of drinks. Outdoor seating provides a shaded area for a more relaxed experience.
Skirt steak shines in the carne asada taco and plates, showing up fresh and flavorful. Burritos pack in overflowing carne, especially the Cali and carne asada versions.
Freshly made guacamole comes with the chips and pairs well with the house salsas. It tastes extremely good and complements the starters nicely.
Good to know
Happy hour on drinks runs from 3-6pm daily.
Expect a $6 charge to add meat to quesadillas.
Generous portions are served, so come hungry or plan to share.
Mexican restaurant offers basic seating and a dining room suitable for conversation. Late hours and a convenient drive-thru serve those needing quick meals. Food features generous portions with standout items like carne asada and burritos under $13.
Carne asada marinade stands out with a delicious flavor, paired well with fresh pico and guacamole. The carne asada tacos offer a solid balance of meat and sides, while the burrito contains more meat than a California burrito but is average overall.
Fresh guacamole appears on tacos and alongside carne asada, adding a creamy, vibrant touch. Some dishes come loaded with guacamole, but portions can vary, leading to occasional disputes over its presence.
Good to know
They charge $1 for using credit or debit cards.
The drive-thru is a convenient option for quick service.
Prices at Filiberto's Mexican Food are among the best in San Diego.
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.
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.