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.
Meat comes fresh and tender, roasted to perfection. Tacos are generous in size and packed with incredible flavor.
Fresh, hand-made corn tortillas cook right in front of you, made on the premises with exceptional quality. They serve homemade tortillas that stand out for their freshness and taste.
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 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.
Juicy and crispy textures define the carnitas here, delivering authentic and flavorful bites. Options include tacos, burritos, and plates, all noted for their rich flavor and satisfying quality.
Handmade tortillas stand out with their freshness and soft texture. They taste like homemade corn tortillas and pair well with tacos and burritos.
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.
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.
Carnitas stand out for their rich flavor and generous portions. Tacos and burritos packed with carnitas taste great on their own without needing extra salsa.
Fluffy and homemade tortillas come hot and crispy, adding great texture to the dishes. Guacamole spreads creamy flavor before loading meat, onions, and cilantro, making the tacos rich and satisfying.
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.
Colorful outdoor seating and kitsch Mexican vecindad decor create a lively, fun atmosphere with cool vibes. Unique salsa bar and flavorful micheladas add to the experience. The place feels like a casual trip south of the border with inviting, spacious surroundings.
Tacos feature crispy, flavorful carnitas that stand out. Options include classic carnitas and combinations with other fillings like cochinita and shrimp.
Handmade corn tortillas come fresh daily and stand out for their homemade quality and freshness. They pair well with tacos that have generous fillings.
Good to know
Taco Tuesday offers 2 tacos for $8 and $9 house margaritas.
Happy hour runs Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 3 to 6 pm.
Each canned or bottled soda is priced at $4.
Small space with stainless steel tables and a flame grill creates a lively, inviting atmosphere. Patrons enjoy authentic Mexican tacos with fresh handmade tortillas and a self-serve salsa bar. The vibe feels like home despite limited parking and simple surroundings.
Juicy and tender meat comes with a perfectly crispy finish. Carnitas tacos arrive with beans and rice, making a solid meal.
Handmade tortillas use high-quality cornmeal and come fresh and cook-to-order. Small, freshly made corn tortillas stand out as a favorite.
Good to know
Street parking is extremely tough during peak hours.
Parking can get tricky when the restaurant gets busier.
There is a surcharge for card use, so I recommend bringing cash.
Spacious seating and ample space create a comfortable dining environment with a clean, bright atmosphere. Music plays at a volume that supports conversation, and friendly staff contribute to a welcoming vibe. Regularly showing NFL and NBA games adds a casual, community feel to the experience.
Shredded pieces stand out in the carnitas, offering a mix of cubes and shreds. The carnitas appear in burritos, tacos, and meat plates, paired with items like guacamole and spicy carrots.
Tortillas here are super tasty and come in both flour and double corn varieties. They wrap tender, flavorful fillings like shredded beef and scrambled eggs, often paired with crispy chips and a good table salsa.
Good to know
The restaurant offers both dine-in and takeout options.
Most menu items are made in-house, ensuring freshness.
Parking might be difficult to find in the area.
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.
Perfectly cooked carnitas appear in tacos and California burritos, offering a flavorful alternative to carne asada. The carnitas tacos stand out alongside other options like buche and al pastor.
Fresh tortillas come with a perfect consistency and size. They contain no lard, which pairs well with the beans served.
Good to know
Parking is tough due to the limited lot size, which has barely 12 spaces.
If the parking lot is full, consider parking at the Plaza next door.
To save time, call in your order at least 15 minutes prior for fast pickup.
Bright, open space with Mexican artistic decor and a colorful, festive atmosphere creates a family-friendly vibe. The setting is quiet and chill, making it comfortable for conversation and relaxed dining. A nice patio adds outdoor seating options.
Carnitas come in big portions and feature in tacos alongside fish and beef options. The meat is a key part of several dishes including suiza enchiladas and Carne en su Jugo.
Freshly made handmade tortillas appear right in front of you, both corn and flour varieties. Corn tortillas look almost too pretty to eat and pair well with dishes like caldo de pollo and menudo.
Good to know
There is a big parking lot in the back.
Street parking is limited.
The prices were extremely reasonable.
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.
Simple street tacos with cilantro and onions highlight the carnitas here. The meat has a spicy flavor and sometimes could use a bit more salt.
Warm corn tortillas have a slightly charred crunch and taste traditional like those from Tijuana. They come loaded with toppings and a touch of oil, creating an authentic and flavorful base for the meat-filled tacos.
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 hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant with canteen-style seating and outdoor tables offers a lively, authentic atmosphere reminiscent of old 70s establishments. Noise levels rise at night, creating an inviting, energetic vibe. Known for excellent tacos and burritos with freshly made tortillas and standout lengua tacos.
Carnitas tacos come cooked to perfection with onions, cilantro, and hot sauce. The mulitas de carnitas feature crunchy tortillas filled with carnitas and melted cheese.
Handmade tortillas come out light as clouds and fresh. They have a unique style that completes tacos and work well with dishes like al pastor and birria soup.
Good to know
They only accept cash payments; Zelle and Venmo are also options.
The establishment closes at 3:00 am, catering to late-night visitors.
Parking is available, but the lot is very small.
Walk-up window with outdoor standing tables creates a casual, bright and cheery vibe. Mexican-style decor and vibrant colors add charm while planes overhead enhance the atmosphere. The spot draws a crowd looking for quick, flavorful Mexican food in an informal setting.
Carnitas come in tacos and burritos that are filling and well-priced. The carnitas taco stands out as excellent, and the $2.29 taco options include asada, pollo, carnitas, and adobada.
Buttery flour tortillas hold fillings well and stay tender. The machaca burrito features a moist, juicy tortilla paired with red and green salsas.
Good to know
Taco Tuesday offers great deals on tacos and is popular among locals.
There is no seating available, so plan to eat standing or take out.
Parking can be tough to find on weekends; expect to walk a few blocks.
Spacious Mexican restaurant with handmade tortillas and bright natural light creates an authentic atmosphere. Classic Mexican music plays at a comfortable volume, enhancing the traditional dining experience. The menu features birria and menudo that stand out for their quality and flavor.
Carnitas come highly recommended here and deliver a solid, satisfying flavor. This spot works well for a casual weekend meal featuring birria and carnitas.
Freshly made handmade corn tortillas come with birria dishes and quesabirrias. They have a delicious flavor that pairs well with beef stew and bone marrow plates.
Good to know
Parking can be limited and a little difficult, so patience is needed.
The menu has limited options for menudo tripe, only the blanket one is available.
Prices are reasonable for the quality of food served.
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.
Carnitas appear in tacos, burritos, and plates with good flavor but sometimes need a bit more salt. Options include carnitas tacos and carnitas burritos alongside other meats.
Freshness stands out with fresh and flavorful tortillas for burritos and tacos. Corn tortillas on the Al Pastor taco taste fresh, while some tortillas are more plain and not handmade.
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.
Small, historic Mexican restaurant with a casual local vibe and beachside atmosphere. The place is cash only with an ATM inside, offering competitive prices and a chill setting. Known for best breakfast burritos and California burritos in town.
Excellent carnitas stand out in both burritos and tacos. Plates showcase rich flavor and tender meat consistently.
Fresh-made tortillas hold up well without breaking and wrap ingredients evenly. They taste amazing and come with tender carne and crispy-ish fries inside.
Good to know
Nico's Mexican Food is cash only, but there is an ATM inside.
The pricing is great, with a four-course meal for $12.00.
Enjoy 5 rolled tacos for just $6.75.
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.
Carnitas show up in tacos and nachos with a delicious, tasty flavor. They come alongside other meats like al pastor and carne asada, often priced at 99 cents each for tacos.
Soft corn tortillas wrap tender, flavor-packed carne asada and spiced mashed potato flautas with extra crispiness. Fresh tortillas pair well with plenty of filling and a variety of salsas.
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.
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.
Shredded carnitas meat comes well seasoned, juicy, and tender. Large portions appear in tacos and plates, with options to customize burritos loaded with fatty carnitas.
Tortillas here hold up well with lots of fillings and garnish without tearing. Some tacos show a strong corn tortilla oil flavor, while others pair well with fresh slaw and salsa.
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.
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.
Carnitas come in dry and stringy cuts, but the burritos use great quality meat. Plates with al pastor and carnitas offer rich flavors.
Handmade tortillas stand out with a great char and fresh, authentic corn flavor. Some tortillas are almost crepe-like, adding unique texture to burritos with generous portions and tender fillings.
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.
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.
Cubed carnitas come well seasoned with a mix of moist tender meat and crispy roasted pieces. Fatty bits add rich flavor, and salsa helps balance dryness when needed.
Tortillas come handmade and freshly made to order, tasting like they were prepared just minutes before serving. They have a homemade quality that pairs well with flavorful fillings.
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.
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.
Tender and flavorful meat defines the carnitas here, served in generous portions. Options include tacos and burritos, with some preferring the tacos plain to highlight the meat's taste.
Tortillas stay soft and warm even after a 15-minute drive. They have a flaky texture and hold together without ripping, making them ideal for burritos.
Good to know
El Charro Taco Shop is open 24/7, making it a late-night food option.
Each taco costs $6.50, providing a budget-friendly meal choice.
The burrito is under $15, offering good value for a filling meal.
Mexican restaurant with a clean, appealing interior and a salsa bar featuring three salsas and cut limes. The atmosphere is neutral, with a focus on small, flavorful burritos and daily specials. Portions tend to be modest, and food is served in single-use plastic containers.
Carnitas come in a good portion size with a perfect taste. The carnita burrito stands out alongside veggie tacos.
Burrito tortillas come out fresh and really good. Meals include soft corn tortillas alongside a soft drink.
Good to know
Food specials are available every Tuesday.
Expect to pay around $14 for a smaller burrito.
The restaurant maintains a clean environment.
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.
Juicy and full of flavor, the carnitas tacos stand out with their succulent texture. They pair well with a cold beer and come alongside other solid taco options like carne asada and pollo adobado.
Tortillas have a silky texture and carry infused flavor. Burrito tortillas hold up well with good distribution, while taco tortillas are tiny and get soggy from oil quickly.
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.
Large, clean Mexican restaurant with adorable decor and lots of seating creates a pleasant atmosphere. Weekend live music adds energy while a bar offers drinks like tasty margaritas. The vibe suits busy dine-in crowds seeking authentic Mexican flavors.
Carnitas here stand out for their authentic flavor and exceptional quality. The carnitas plates and tacos offer a great value, with a menu that includes specials and family meals.
Fresh tortillas come highly recommended by the staff and arrive soft and warm. Flour tortillas accompany plates like the Carnitas, served alongside rice, beans, and all the fixings on separate plates.
Good to know
The restaurant offers a variety of dishes for non-pork eaters, including chicken and beef.
Kids can enjoy picking from a candy cart before checkout.
The portions are generous, suitable for sharing among adults and kids.
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.
Carnitas Burrito stands out with rich flavor and satisfying portions. The carnitas chimichanga also delivers a solid taste, while the carnitas tacos show promise for even better flavor.
Fresh corn tortillas stand out for their softness and flavor. Burrito and chimichanga wraps stay tender and crisp, holding up well even after cooling.
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.
Covered patio and interior blend earth tones with tropical vibes creating a calm, inviting atmosphere. Salsa bar offers homemade sauces and chips made from scratch. Food features authentic Mexican dishes with generous portions and fresh tortillas soaking up rich flavors.
Carnitas come in a huge portion that can last for dinner later. They are mildly seasoned to perfection and rank among the best Mexican food around.
Fresh, homemade tortillas soak up juices for extra flavor. They also make homemade tortilla chips from scratch that are quite addictive, along with their own salsa.
Good to know
Brunch is available on Saturdays.
The restaurant opens at 6 am.
There is a nice-sized parking lot.
Mexican restaurant with authentic imported tile floors and retro neon signs creates a space that feels like an 80s cantina. The atmosphere is dark and casual, offering ample seating for sit-down meals. It operates 24/7, attracting a steady flow of people looking for late-night Mexican food.
Tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned, the carnitas deliver a strong flavor punch. The carnitas tacos and Carnitas Plate stand out for their rich taste and satisfying texture.
Freshness stands out with homemade tortillas made from both corn and flour. The authentic Mexican style shines through in every bite.
Good to know
Roberto's Taco Shop Bay Park is open 24 hours and on holidays.
The prices at Roberto's Taco Shop Bay Park are very good, especially for Southern California.
The prices range from 3 to 12 dollars, making it affordable.
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.
Carnitas here come in a big, filling California burrito and a fresh, flavorful torta. The meat can be a little dry but still holds up well in tacos and other dishes.
Fresh-made tortillas stand out with a soft yet perfectly grilled texture. They pair well with fillings like carne asada, shrimp, and machaca, balancing flavors without messiness.
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.
Mexican restaurant with colorful interior featuring cactus-themed wallpaper and cowboy hat decorations offers a casual, welcoming atmosphere. Seating includes covered outdoor patio and ample indoor space, complemented by a self-serve salsa bar. Drive-thru service adds convenience to the experience.
Smoky flavor defines the carnitas here, making it rich and distinct. Served in burritos and tacos, the portions lean toward moderate size.
Handmade tortillas stand out with a pillowy texture and crispy edges. They pair well with juicy beef and crispy fries, especially when dipped in rich broth. Tacos and sopes use real, homemade tortillas throughout.
Good to know
Expect to pay around $7 for each taco, which is on the higher side.
The restaurant offers generous portions, especially for tacos.
Combo prices range from $10 to $20, which is reasonable for the area.
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.
Tacos feature tender carnitas with a rich flavor. Burritos also include well-seasoned carnitas alongside other options like mushrooms.
Fresh handmade tortillas come out to order behind glass, making the burritos with fresh tortillas that wrap everything tightly. The process is visible and the tortillas taste fresh and soft.
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.
Small Mexican restaurant offers authentic carnitas with a unique flavor and generous portions. Atmosphere feels warm and family friendly despite outdated decor and dim lighting. Only cash payments accepted, with an ATM available on site.
Juicy and flavorful carnitas stand out with a unique taste not found elsewhere. Serving consistently authentic and excellent carnitas makes it a great choice for any time of day or special occasions.
Fresh tortillas come with a free sampler of carnitas when you walk in. They stay always fresh and have a very tasty flavor. You can also buy fresh lard here to make your own tortillas.
Good to know
The restaurant only accepts cash payments; an ATM is available on-site.
Expect to pay around $5 per taco, with no posted individual prices.
The restaurant can get very crowded, especially during peak hours.
Outdoor seating with romantic light bulbs and a covered patio creates a relaxed, welcoming vibe. An open kitchen adds transparency and a sense of cleanliness. A salsa bar offers customization, enhancing the casual dining experience.
Carnitas come in a generous portion, especially in the burrito which feels like a half pound rolled in a tortilla. The regular taco serves a street taco style with a single tortilla. The carnitas are flavorful and rich.
Fresh corn tortillas come with tacos, often served with plenty of meat. The tortillas hold a generous amount of carne asada or carnitas, making each taco filling and flavorful.
Good to know
Taco Tuesdays offer great deals with tacos priced between $2 to $13.
Portion sizes are large, often leaving customers with leftovers.
Tap payment options are available for easy transactions.