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.
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."
"The carne asada tacos were packed with flavor and very good."
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.
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.
Juicy, tender carne asada features perfect seasoning and a subtle charred flavor from the grill. It shines in burritos and tacos, pairing well with surf and turf or fish options.
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 salsa bar is fantastic, with so many tasty options."
"The Carne Asada is tender and perfectly seasoned."
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.
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.
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 thought the Carne Asada quesadilla was the best I ever had."
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 with covered outdoor seating offers authentic tacos known for rich, flavorful fillings and affordable prices. Small portions and tortillas contrast with bold tastes, creating a casual, straightforward dining vibe. The spot draws those seeking classic taco flavors without fuss.
Carne asada stands out with its rich flavor and tender texture. Tacos, mulitas, and burritos showcase this excellent quality consistently across dishes.
Green salsa offers a great flavor while red salsa delivers a very spicy and flavorful kick. All salsas have great flavor overall.
"I thought the carne asada was excellent, the best I had in a long time."
"I found the tacos here to be some of the best I've ever had."
Good to know
The tacos cost three dollars each.
They offer authentic tacos at a great price.
The portions of the mulita and tacos are small.
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.
Rich, decadent flavors define the salsas here. Nick's special salsa stands out as a must-add that complements the tacos and tortillas perfectly.
"I loved the rich flavors of their fantastic salsas."
"The Carne Asada here is tender and flavorful."
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.
Minimalist taco shop style sets a clean, comfy, and quiet atmosphere with cafeteria-style seating. A self-serve salsa bar and free hot carrots add to the casual vibe. Known for authentic California burritos and consistent quality, it stays open late when others close.
Carne asada here is lean with no gross fat trimmings and served over super flavorful, crispy fries. The Surf & Turf Carne Asada fries come in a huge plate and stand out as a go-to choice.
A salsa bar offers chips, spicy carrots, jalapenos, and several tasty salsas. The chunky green salsa stands out with onions and cilantro, adding flavor to burritos.
"The salsa bar has awesome, tasty salsas and spicy carrots and jalapenos."
"The carne asada fries here are amazing and crispy."
Good to know
$2 taco Tuesdays offer a budget-friendly option for visitors.
Cali's & Fries has plenty of parking available in front.
The restaurant is known for its clean bathrooms.
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.
Carne asada dishes come with authentic border-style flavor and are cooked perfectly. Options like carne asada fries, tacos, burritos, and mulitas all deliver rich, packed taste and are served hot.
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 Carne Asada service was so friendly and attentive."
"The salsa here is spicy and hits the spot."
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.
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.
Carne asada fries stand out with strong flavor and quality. Burritos and tacos with carne asada come with amazing beans and rice and deliver consistent taste.
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."
"I thought the Carne Asada fries were bomb."
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.
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.
Carne asada comes moist and tender with a flavorful profile. It stands out well in the carne asada burrito and holds its own among other dishes.
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."
"The Carne Asada here is so flavorful and moist."
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.
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.
Homemade salsas stand out with fresh flavors and variety. They pair well with chips and complement dishes like tamales and rice and beans.
"I found their salsas to be the best I've ever had."
Good to know
The market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meat, and pantry items.
Expect a clean and well-organized shopping environment.
The butcher counter provides high-quality meat options, including carne asada.
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.
Charcoal grilling gives the carne asada a strong, smoky aroma. Tacos come with plenty of fresh avocado and the meat tastes just as it should, flavorful and well-priced.
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 thought the carne asada tacos were some of the best north of the border."
"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.
Small Mexican restaurant offers massive burritos and exceptionally delicious tacos with a large menu and homemade salsa bar featuring six salsas including a standout creamy green salsa. The atmosphere is clean and efficient, with quick service and a compact seating area. Prices vary, with some items like mini tacos priced higher, but overall food quantity is generous.
Carne asada comes in several forms here, including fries and a burrito. The carne asada fries are decent, and the burrito holds up well alongside other dishes like machaca and al pastor.
A wide salsa bar offers six homemade salsas including a creamy green salsa that stands out for its flavor and texture. The guacamole salsa is spicy with carrots and jalapenos included free, enhancing tacos and burritos well.
"I thought their creamy green salsa was the best."
"The carne asada was good."
Good to know
The tacos are priced at $6.09 each.
A burrito costs $12 and is ready in about 5 minutes.
The restaurant has a self-service water station and a salsa bar with six homemade salsas.
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.
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 found the Carne Asada burritos to be among the best."
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 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.
Moist and flavorful carne asada appears in burritos, tacos, and fries. Carne asada tacos come out filling, while the fries and burritos offer solid options with varying praise.
Red salsa stands out with its bold flavor and nice spiciness. Salsa verde comes in a generous cup alongside Chile torreados and lemon wedges.
"The carne asada here is moist and flavorful."
"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.
Grand, authentic decor sets a welcoming tone with family-owned warmth. The atmosphere stays calm and quiet, often empty, with ample parking available. Known for juicy carnitas and flavorful birria tacos, it offers generous portions at reasonable prices.
Mini tacos and fries highlight the carne asada here with rich, flavorful meat. Creamy sauce and fresh salsas add extra layers to the tacos and fries.
Salsas come with great variety and balanced flavors. Staff allow easy modifications and extras without hassle.
"The salsas here were really good."
Good to know
They offer a taco Tuesday deal with 5 tacos for $10.
There was a lot of parking available.
The restaurant is family owned.
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.
Tacos feature tender carne asada on great corn tortillas with flavorful sauces. Burritos include carne asada but lean toward good rather than exceptional.
Free chips come with flavorful salsa that is tasty but not spicy. The salsa options lack a very spicy choice.
"The Carne Asada tacos were fantastic, delicious, and authentic."
"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.
Hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant offers family-run authenticity with a relaxing vibe and classic arcade games inside. The spot draws a crowd for its top-rated burritos and tacos, especially the California and Machaca varieties. Parking is limited but includes a designated lot for convenience.
Carne asada burritos come consistently packed with flavor and often include sour cream and guacamole. The carne asada fries stand out as a popular choice, known for their hearty and satisfying taste.
Red and green salsas stand out with bold flavors and consistent quality. The red salsa ranks among the top in the area, while the green salsa pairs well with tacos and breakfast dishes.
"I thought the Carne Asada burrito was heavenly and consistently good."
"I dream about the green salsa here."
Good to know
There is a designated parking lot for customers, making parking easy.
Expect short wait times, especially during off-peak hours.
The restaurant is clean and comfortable for dining.
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.
Carne asada comes with a good amount of shrimp and meat, balanced without being oily or fishy. It stands out as really good, just behind the top-rated pollo adobada.
Red salsa stands out for its hot but addicting flavor. Homemade salsas consistently deliver delicious taste that complements dishes like shrimp burritos and pollo asado tacos.
"The Carne Asada tacos here are really good and flavorful."
"The burritos here are huge, messy, and delicious."
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.
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.
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 Carne Asada here is so tender and smoky."
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.
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 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 Carne Asada tacos here are amazing and full of flavor."
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 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.
Carne Asada here features excellent meat served in tacos and plates with handmade corn tortillas. The hot cheeto carne asada burrito stands out as a unique option.
Salsas here are homemade and pack a spicy, flavorful punch. Everything tastes fresh and hits the mark perfectly.
"The salsa here is delicious and perfectly spiced."
"I was obsessed with the crunchy Carne Asada tacos."
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.
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.
Fried carne asada offers a rich, smoky flavor and rates highly for taste. Carne asada fries taste authentic and fresh, making them a standout choice.
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 fried carne asada here is super delicious and smoky."
"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.
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.
Smoked tomatillo salsa stands out with its rich flavor. A salsa bar offers variety to complement dishes like birria and pollo tacos.
"I had the best carne asada of my life here."
"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.
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.
Carne asada here is tender with no gristle and appears in several dishes like quesadillas, burritos, and fries. The carne asada fries come without beans by preference and often include chipotle and lime on the side.
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 some of the best carne asada fries I have ever had."
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.
Food truck offers tented, lighted seating with ample free parking nearby. Atmosphere feels dark outside but seating area is very nice and inviting. Menu features authentic, well-prepared tacos with fresh salsas and quick service, accepting only cash payments.
Carne asada tacos taste authentic and come at a slightly higher price of $3 compared to other tacos. They pair well with other taco varieties like birria and adobada, all delivering solid flavor.
Many fresh salsa options come with the tacos, including a standout salsa verde that adds great flavor. Plenty of sauces and agua frescas are available at the food truck's tented, lighted seating area.
"The Carne Asada tacos were packed with flavor and meat."
"The salsa here is amazing and brings great flavor."
Good to know
Taco Time Food Truck accepts only cash payments.
The tacos cost $3 each, including cabeza, al pastor, and birria varieties.
There is plenty of free parking available for semi-trucks, cargo vans, and RVs.
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.
Carne asada features perfect flavor and is well-seasoned. Tacos come perfectly cooked and deliver solid taste.
Salsas come in a wide variety and are clearly homemade with vibrant flavors. The salsa bar offers plenty of options to mix with dishes like burritos.
"I found their tacos to be authentic, fresh, and flavor-packed."
"The carne asada here has perfect flavor."
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.
Mexican restaurant shares space in an old house with other food and drink places, featuring a cozy atmosphere and a great patio area for outdoor seating. The vibe suits quick meals and relaxed dining, attracting those who appreciate generous portion sizes and well-seasoned meats.
Juicy and tender meat stands out in the Carne Asada burrito, which comes loaded with lots of meat and is super delicious. The Carne Asada tacos are huge, and the Carne Asada fries offer an indulgent, artery-clogging option packed with flavor.
House-made red sauce salsa stands out with a unique and spicy kick. Both red and green salsas pair well with dishes, offering a good balance of flavor, though the green salsa tends to be milder.
"The carne asada burrito is loaded with lots of great beef."
"The house-made red salsa is excellent and unique."
Good to know
Parking can be tight during peak hours, so arrive early.
Catering services are available for both small and large groups.
They offer options for dietary restrictions, making it inclusive.
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.
Salsas here are spicy and tasty. They pair well with the burrito, making a solid combo.
"I thought this Carne Asada burrito was the best I ever ate."
"The salsas here are fantastic and extremely good."
Good to know
They close at 10 pm.
On weekdays, there is no wait to be seated.
Parking can be hard to find, but street parking is available nearby.
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.
Generous portions of tender carne asada come wrapped in fresh, well-toasted tortillas with real cheese. Carne asada tacos and burritos stand out for their amazing flavor and satisfying size.
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.
"The carne asada here is tender and the portions are generous."
"I thought the burritos here were incredible."
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.