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Mexican food in Gaslamp Quarter

You are looking for authentic Mexican food that does not cut corners.

Based on 579 Opinions
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01
The Waves Taco Club image 1
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Bright walls with hand-painted murals create a lively vibe. Seafood tacos, especially fish and scallops, shine on the menu. Friendly service and a self-serve salsa bar add to the casual, downtown feel.

Seafood tacos stand out, especially the fish and scallop options. Burritos and chips with guacamole also impress with consistent quality and friendly service.

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be amazing, especially the seafood ones."

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.

02
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Narrow space with rail seating and a self-serve salsa bar creates a casual vibe. Tacos de trompo and carne asada shine with fresh tortillas. Outdoor tables offer a pleasant spot when weather is nice.

Tacos de trompo and carne asada tacos stand out with fresh, made-to-order tortillas. Burritos, especially the California and Tijuana styles, come in great portions with authentic flavors and fresh ingredients.

People are saying

"I had the best carne asada of my life; it's the best Mexican food."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays offer a buy 2 get 1 free deal on tacos.

2

The restaurant is open until 3 AM for late-night eats.

3

Parking can be challenging since it's located in Gaslamp.

03
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Small space feels cozy but cramped, with a fresh salsa bar adding lively flavor. Tacos feature juicy meat and double tortillas, cooked right before you. Affordable prices make it a top spot for quick, authentic Mexican food.

Tacos come with juicy meat and double tortillas, cooked fresh in front of you. Options include adobado, carne asada, suadero, and a vegan mushroom taco, all offering authentic Mexican flavors at good prices.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be fantastic and a good deal."

Good to know

1

Señor Taquero is a tiny spot with limited seating, accommodating about 8 people.

2

Three tacos for $8 is a popular daily special.

3

The place is primarily takeout, with limited indoor seating available.

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Large, modern space with authentic Mexican breakfast like chilaquiles and tamales. Calm vibe and chic decor create a welcoming atmosphere. Guests enjoy good music and a clean, organized setting for a relaxed meal.

Breakfast offers a mix of chilaquiles, machaca, and tamales. Torta options include asada and hamon varieties. Poblano enchiladas and chipotle chilaquiles add to the authentic Mexican flavors.

People are saying

"The chilaquiles here are amazing, especially with carne asada."

Good to know

1

Parking is available about two blocks away for around $14.

2

Expect a large party fee for groups, which may be added to the bill.

3

Extra charges may apply for standard portion sizes of certain dishes.

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Modern taco shop offers authentic Tijuana-style tacos with soft, handmade tortillas and rich fillings like asada and adobada. Open kitchen and lively music create a cozy, clean atmosphere. Enjoy micheladas that perfectly complement the bold flavors.

Tacos here feature authentic Tijuana-style flavors with soft tortillas that hold up well. The asada, suadero, adobada, and cabeza tacos stand out for their rich, well-seasoned fillings.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak hours; reservations are not accepted.

2

Parking is challenging on 5th Avenue; consider using public transport.

3

Prices are high; expect to pay around $44 for four tacos and a mulita.

06
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Upscale Mexican spot offers rockfish tostadas and unique tacos like octopus and vegetarian options. Elegant interior with a 1970s-style light show sets a vibrant mood. Rooftop dancing and lively crowds make it a nightclub hotspot for girls' night.

Rockfish tostadas and ribeye steak stand out with strong flavors. Tacos include unique options like tacos de nada and octopus, alongside excellent vegetarian rolled tacos.

People are saying

"The Mexican food, especially the rockfish tostadas, is packed with bold, vibrant flavors."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers exceptional drinks and food from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

The venue transforms into a nightclub on weekends, starting at 9pm.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere with live music on Saturday nights.

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Mexican eats shine with butter poached lobster tacos and a self-serve salsa bar. Sports bar vibe pumps energy with loud TVs and live music. Outdoor patio offers a nice spot to enjoy a full margarita menu.

Seafood tacos stand out with options like butter poached lobster and garlic shrimp. The menu also features blackened fish tacos, a salsa bar, and carne asada fries.

People are saying

"The Mexican food, especially the tacos, was delicious."

Good to know

1

The happy hour is available Monday through Friday from 3pm to 6pm.

2

Expect a wait outside during peak hours.

3

There is a 5% surcharge added to each bill.

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Vibrant Mexican spot with a large dancefloor and lively music from Mariachi bands to DJs. Tacos are crispy and bold, paired with free chips and three salsas including an extra spicy hot sauce. Playful decor features comic-themed shirts and cartoon wall art.

Tacos come with crispy rolled options and are packed with bold flavors. Free chips arrive with two salsas, a mild red and a spicier green, plus an extra spicy hot sauce to try.

People are saying

"The Mexican Food here has super friendly and attentive staff."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers half-price tacos all day.

2

Happy hour includes discounted margaritas and appetizers.

3

Expect long wait times during weekends, especially after 8pm.

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Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego

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