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Fish and salsa in San Diego

Fresh fish paired with a side of salsa is the light, sharp meal that cuts through the heat of the day.

Based on 751 Opinions
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01
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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.

Fish tacos come in grilled, battered, and Baja style fried varieties, all with solid flavor and good value. Shrimp tacos and burritos also stand out as tasty options.

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.

People are saying

"The salsa bar has a delicious variety of fresh options."

"I thought the fish tacos were so delicious."

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.

02
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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.

Fish tacos come with perfectly cooked, fresh fish and a nicely seasoned batter. Options include Baja style and fish burritos made to order, all at a very reasonable price.

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.

People are saying

"The salsa bar is fantastic, with so many tasty options."

"The fish tacos are fried to perfection and absolutely delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Time Cantina offers unique taco options not available anywhere else.

2

The chef makes everything daily from scratch with over 20 years of experience.

3

Expect a 2% credit card surcharge not listed on the menu.

03
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Food truck under a tent offers Baja style cuisine with fresh, made-to-order ceviche and generous portions. Atmosphere is sunny and peaceful during late morning, though nearby road and workshop can raise noise levels. Locally owned spot provides affordable prices and clear menu details on taco sizes.

Smoked fish tacos stand out with freshness and bold flavor. Baja style fish and shrimp tacos come with great deals and pair well with octopus soup and ceviche.

Salsas come in green with garlic flavor and red with savory spice. Various salsas and hot sauces sit on the side for different tastes.

People are saying

"The salsa here is savory, spicy, and has a great garlic flavor."

"These fish tacos are amazing, with delicious sauce and fresh cabbage."

Good to know

1

Expect the food truck to get busy after 6 pm.

2

Taco Tuesday offers three Baja style fish tacos for $9.

3

No public restrooms are available at the food truck.

04
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Restaurant offers a relaxed beachy vibe with authentic Mexican energy and lively music that keeps noise levels comfortable for conversation. Interior features stunning, detailed decor and a spacious, dog-friendly patio. Atmosphere suits both family outings and date nights, blending cleanliness with uplifting design.

Zarandeado fish comes out cooked perfectly with a smoky flavor. The whole fish and surf and turf taco pair well with famous beans.

Homemade tortillas come with salsa de habanero that tastes delicious and stays mild on spice. The roasted habanero salsa stands out with its rich flavor that shines on its own.

People are saying

"The fish zarandeado was cooked perfectly and tasted amazing."

"The roasted habanero salsa practically shines on its own."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is limited; expect challenges finding street parking nearby.

3

The restaurant has a dog-friendly patio for outdoor dining.

05
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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.

Fried fish tacos stand out as the star, served with hot, crispy tortillas. Fish burritos and shrimp tacos also deliver killer flavor and satisfy cravings.

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.

People are saying

"The salsas here are packed with authentic flavor."

"I found the fried fish tacos to be delicious."

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.

06
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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.

Fish tacos come fried and perfectly cooked with fresh ingredients. They taste light and fluffy and pair well with shrimp or veggie options.

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.

People are saying

"The fish tacos are crispy, yummy, and delicious."

"The salsas here are so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Each burrito costs $17, which may not be a good value for some.

2

The vegetarian burrito contains lard, making it unsuitable for strict vegetarians.

3

The restaurant is small, so expect limited seating and possible wait times.

07
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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.

Crispy fish tacos stand out for their flavor and freshness. They come at a consistent price of $3.50 and pair well with other items like ceviche and churros.

Salsas come fresh and homemade with many options available for self-service. The habanero salsa stands out as particularly awesome and flavorful.

People are saying

"The fish tacos are massive and incredibly tasty."

"I loved the self-serve salsa bar with so many flavorful options."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, enjoy $2.50 street tacos and two for $5 specials.

2

Happy hour features $3 pints and $6 margaritas from 2 to 6 PM and all day on weekends.

3

Outdoor seating is available for dogs.

08
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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.

Fish tacos come fresh and super flavourful with options like shrimp and grilled fish. They cost $2.99 and deliver great taste and bold flavors consistently.

Salsa here tastes fresh and pairs well with the food. The flavors come through as delicious and complement the tortillas nicely.

People are saying

"The salsas here are flavorful and complement the food well."

"I thought the fish tacos were among the best I had."

Good to know

1

$1.99 fish taco special is available, making it a great deal.

2

The taco shop has a drive-thru for convenient ordering.

3

Expect reasonable prices and good portion sizes.

09
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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.

Fish tacos stand out with their great taste and fabulous flavor.

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.

People are saying

"I found their tacos to be authentic, fresh, and flavor-packed."

"The fish tacos here are great tasting and fabulous."

Good to know

1

They offer 99¢ tacos on Tuesday and 3 for $7 all week long.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere on Taco Tuesdays due to the great deals.

3

Parking is limited, so consider street parking or arriving by rideshare.

10
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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.

Large pieces of very fresh fish make the fish tacos stand out. The mahi mahi is tender and flaky with a nice sear and great seasoning. The fish burrito also comes highly recommended.

Free chips come with flavorful salsa that is tasty but not spicy. The salsa options lack a very spicy choice.

People are saying

"The mahi mahi taco's salsa had mango and chipotle."

"You've got to try the fish tacos; they have large pieces of very fresh fish."

Good to know

1

Good food takes time, and customers should expect a wait, similar to other sit-down restaurants.

2

Their tacos now come on freshly made corn tortillas at this location.

3

The prices at TODO PA' LA CRUDA weren’t bad.

11
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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.

Fish tacos stand out with fried and breaded white fish and grilled Mahi options. The menu also features scallop and garlic shrimp tacos, all priced reasonably with combos including a beer.

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.

People are saying

"The salsas here are fresh and flavorful."

"I found the fried fish taco to be one of the best I've ever eaten."

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.

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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.

Beer-battered mahi mahi features in tacos that come at a great price. Fish is perfectly cooked and appears in various dishes like burritos, quesadillas, and crunch wraps.

Rich, decadent flavors define the salsas here. Nick's special salsa stands out as a must-add that complements the tacos and tortillas perfectly.

People are saying

"I loved the rich flavors of their fantastic salsas."

"The fish here is perfectly cooked and delicious."

Good to know

1

Crest Taco offers a limited menu of high-quality tacos, burritos, and quesadillas.

2

Fish tacos are available for $1.99, making them a budget-friendly option.

3

The restaurant is open late on weekends, perfect for late-night cravings.

13
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Seafood truck offers casual outdoor dining with fresh, flavorful seafood like fish tacos and grilled shrimp. The atmosphere stays friendly and wholesome, attracting families and regulars. Tables under a tarp provide shelter while enjoying authentic Mexican flavors in a lively setting.

Grilled fish tacos stand out with fresh, flavorful pieces and a charred, fajita-like taste. Fish tacos, burritos, and shrimp dishes consistently deliver authentic, delicious seafood.

Offers a great selection of salsas with complimentary lemons and marinated onions. The green salsa adds a nice flavor to the tacos.

People are saying

"I loved the shrimp tacos; they were so good."

"I believed the fish taco was the best in San Diego."

Good to know

1

They charge a credit card fee without prior notice, so cash is recommended.

2

The seafood truck is located in the AutoZone parking lot.

3

Hot sauce is added to dishes automatically; ask for it on the side if preferred.

14
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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.

Fish tacos stand out with their tasty flavor and are often paired with shrimp or asada tacos. These tacos offer a satisfying and flavorful option for seafood lovers.

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.

People are saying

"I thought the fish tacos were really good and tasty."

"The fried carne asada had a rich, smoky flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking is tough, so arrive early to find a spot.

2

Prices are surprisingly good for the large portions offered.

3

The food portions are very large, perfect for sharing.

15
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Mexican restaurant with bright colors and sombrero decorations creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Large space includes outdoor seating and TVs showing golf, football, and tennis. A self-serve salsa bar and draft IPA add to the casual, sports pub vibe.

Fish tacos come blackened or grilled and taste fresh and flavorful. Whole fried fish and fish plates with chipotle sauce offer hearty options at reasonable prices.

Fresh self-serve salsa bar offers a variety of options. A self-service soda dispenser complements the salsa experience.

People are saying

"The salsa bar here has excellent, flavorful varieties."

"I loved the fish tacos; they were delicious and amazing."

Good to know

1

Prices at Robert’s Jalapeños are reasonable for the quality of food.

2

There was ample parking available at the location in Carmel Mountain.

3

The wait time for food is generally not very long.

16
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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.

Battered and fried fish appears in both tacos and burritos, with the burrito featuring a crispy exterior and flakey whitefish inside. Fish tacos come with free chips and salsa.

A self-serve salsa bar offers unlimited chips and fresh, tasty salsas. The fire salsas add a spicy kick that enhances the food.

People are saying

"The salsa here is delicious and adds a spicy kick."

"The battered fish burrito is perfectly crispy and flakey."

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.

17
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Small Mexican restaurant with cozy indoor and outdoor seating featuring colorful murals outside. Atmosphere feels lively and upbeat with good music playing, creating a friendly and festive vibe. The spot attracts people looking for authentic birria and mariscos in a casual, unassuming setting.

Fish tacos feature huge flavor and size, especially the Cali shrimp and tilapia options. Several tilapia tacos stand out with added green hot sauce, making them some of the most memorable fish tacos around.

Salsas come in a good selection with great flavor. Both the dark green and light green salsas stand out as very flavorful.

People are saying

"The salsas here are really flavorful and elevate the dishes."

"I had some of the best fish tacos I have ever had."

Good to know

1

Ferchaladas birria & mariscos accepts only cash payments.

2

Expect to wait due to the busy atmosphere.

3

It is difficult to find parking.

18
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Small, old school taco shop with limited indoor seating and a relaxed, casual vibe. The atmosphere feels authentic and family-friendly, though the space is somewhat cramped and basic. Known for top-tier fish tacos and generous portions, it draws steady crowds especially on weekends.

Fish tacos come huge and juicy with a light coating that keeps the fish tender. The fish burrito offers a tasty alternative with the same fresh quality.

Green salsa stands out as life changing and pairs well with carne asada fries. Red salsa delivers a spicy kick that many find memorable.

People are saying

"I thought the green salsa here was awesome."

"The fish tacos here are huge and delicious."

Good to know

1

Humberto's Taco Shop closes before 11 PM on weekdays and before 12 AM on weekends.

2

Parking is available nearby, making it worth the walk-in policy.

3

The portion size is pretty good for the price.

19
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Mexican restaurant offers excellent tacos with a well stocked salsa bar that stays clean. The atmosphere is very clean and neat, with a convenient and easy-to-use app for ordering. Prices are generally affordable though some items feel slightly expensive for their portion size.

Fish tacos feature battered fish with a crunchy crust and large chunks of cabbage. Prices run about 12.50 dollars each for four tacos, and the fish is generally good without a funky taste.

A well stocked salsa bar offers a great selection of signature salsas. It stays clean and is always full.

People are saying

"I found the fish tacos here really tasty."

"The salsa bar is always full and clean."

Good to know

1

Order online at least one hour ahead for lunch to avoid waiting.

2

The salsa bar is well stocked and clean.

3

Expect slightly higher prices for portion sizes, with burritos around $12.

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Small, cozy Mexican restaurant with a hole-in-the-wall vibe and laid-back atmosphere. Offers fast, affordable food with outdoor patio seating where people watch happens. Known for flavorful burritos and tacos that stand out in quality and taste.

Huge fish tacos come with an amazing sauce that adds great flavor. The menu includes grilled fish soft tacos that stand out for their tasty and generous portions.

Salsas here are freshly made and spicy, with a standout green salsa that packs a punch. The salsa roja also adds a flavorful kick that complements the dishes well.

People are saying

"Their salsas are so flavorful and fresh."

"The fish tacos here are huge and delicious."

Good to know

1

The wait at Don Carlos Taco Shop is usually short, even during rush hours.

2

There is limited seating available at Don Carlos Taco Shop.

3

Don Carlos Taco Shop offers a variety of menu options, including vegan choices.

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Small Mexican restaurant offers a family atmosphere with nostalgic cantina vibes and a lively, crowded energy. Outdoor patio provides wonderful ocean views that complement the relaxed setting. A salsa bar and food truck add to the casual, authentic experience.

Lightly fried fish tacos stand out with their crispy texture and fresh flavor. They come at a budget-friendly price, often under $10 for two tacos and a drink.

Salsas here include a habanero salsa that stands out for its flavor. They pair well with the great tacos served alongside.

People are saying

"You have to try the fish tacos; they're amazing."

"The salsa bar here is nice, with tasty options like habanero."

Good to know

1

Street tacos cost $3 each.

2

A regular breakfast burrito costs $11.99, with extra charges for substitutions.

3

The two fish tacos and a drink cost under $10.

22
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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.

Fish tacos come with awesome flavor and are a recommended choice. The battered fish burrito is huge and filling but has only small portions of fish inside a flour tortilla with cabbage and pico de gallo.

Salsas come in red, green, and orange varieties with flavorful and spicy profiles. The orange salsa stands out and adds a strong kick to dishes like the veggie burrito.

People are saying

"The salsas here are flavorful and spicy."

"The fish here is so fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Nico's Mexican Food is cash only, but there is an ATM inside.

2

The pricing is great, with a four-course meal for $12.00.

3

Enjoy 5 rolled tacos for just $6.75.

23
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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.

Massive, battered fish tacos stand out for their size and flavor. Prices stay low with deals like $1.70 to $2.50 per taco, often paired with draft beer during happy hour.

Salsas here have a perfectly balanced flavor that complements dishes like pollo asada tacos and the carne asada burrito con queso.

People are saying

"The salsas here are rich, delicious, and perfectly balanced."

"These fish tacos are so fresh and delicious."

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.

24
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Mexican restaurant offers a self-serve salsa bar with house-made salsas in various colors and spice levels. Atmosphere feels quiet and family-oriented with casual interiors and friendly service. Regulars enjoy flavorful meats and breakfast burritos praised for consistency and taste.

Fish tacos come well cooked and large, topped with fresh shredded lettuce and tomato. Fish rolled tacos offer a lighter sauce and are full of delicious fish without being greasy or salty.

A fantastic salsa bar offers a wide variety of salsas, including a notable guacamole salsa. The salsas taste great and complement dishes like chili relleno well.

People are saying

"The salsa bar here is fantastic with a great variety."

Good to know

1

Prices for meals are generally reasonable, with burritos costing around $12 each.

2

The restaurant offers a salsa bar with a good variety of salsas.

3

Portion sizes are generous, providing good value for the price.

25
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Fish market and restaurant combine with fresh seafood display behind a glass counter. Outdoor patio lined with cacti offers a relaxed coastal vibe and spacious seating options. The atmosphere feels buzzy and inviting, drawing people who appreciate fresh fish and casual dining.

Fresh fish arrives daily, making the quality consistently high. Signature items include a fish sandwich and a fish burrito praised for their flavor and freshness.

Chips and salsa come with a fresh avocado addition that complements the meal well. The salsa pairs nicely with the crispy chips, making it a solid starter or side.

People are saying

"The fish here is so fresh and delicious."

"The chips and salsa were a great addition to my meal."

Good to know

1

El Pescador Fish Market operates on a first come, first serve basis; no reservations accepted.

2

Expect long lines on Saturday afternoons, especially during peak hours.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early to secure a spot.

26
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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.

Grilled fish tacos come fresh and cooked perfectly with toppings that enhance every bite. The beer battered fish and seafood trio tacos offer a satisfying crunch and flavor that stand out.

Salsas here are spicy and tasty. They pair well with the burrito, making a solid combo.

People are saying

"I thought the grilled fish tacos were amazing."

"The salsas here are fantastic and extremely good."

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.

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