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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Hillcrest

Taco and salsa spots

A taco experience where the salsa is treated as a vital component rather than a disposable condiment.

Based on 604 Opinions
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01
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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.

Al Pastor taco stands out with perfect seasoning and fresh ingredients. Carne asada tacos come with fresh guacamole and bold flavors. Tacos arrive hot and show clear care in preparation.

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

"The carne asada taco was tender, flavorful, and buttery."

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

Good to know

1

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

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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.

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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.

Battered fish tacos stand out with generous meat fillings and great value. Taco Tuesdays offer affordable deals and tasty options like Caliente and Carne Asada tacos.

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

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be fantastic and packed with flavor."

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

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.

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Modern Mexican restaurant offers spacious indoor and outdoor seating with a breezy patio elevated for people watching. Atmosphere feels high class yet welcoming, with artistic plating and a lively bar featuring fresh margaritas and unique cocktails. Crowd enjoys a comfortable, friendly vibe with generous portions and stylish design.

Tacos here feature braised lamb birria and huitlacoche, both rich in flavor. Fish and vegan mushroom tacos also stand out, often paired with salsa for added zest.

Salsa here stands out with superb flavor and pairs well with the costillas en salsa verde. The guacamole and salsa appetizers are also terrific and complement the tacos, especially lamb or beef.

People are saying

"The birria tacos here are flavorful and pretty good."

"The salsa verde here is delicious with crispy tortillas."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 5 pm most days with affordable prices.

2

Expect a busy crowd on weekends; arrive early to avoid long waits.

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Parking can be limited with only street parking available.

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Mexican restaurant with colorful decor and a dog-friendly patio creates a warm, festive atmosphere. Music ranges from loud and lively to cozy when lights dim and authentic tunes play. Outdoor seating offers an inviting space to enjoy the weather and vibrant surroundings.

Birria tacos stand out with authentic Mexican flavor and consistent quality. The menu pairs them with affordable $3 tacos and $5 margaritas for a solid combo.

Chips and salsa come out fresh and on the house for the first round. The salsa is delicious and pairs well with crispy chips recommended by the staff.

People are saying

"The birria tacos here taste just like in Mexico."

"Arian recommended the best salsa, chips, and queso."

Good to know

1

Huapangos offers bottomless mimosas for $18 with a meal on weekends.

2

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers every weekday.

3

Expect long wait times during peak brunch hours on weekends.

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Mexican restaurant with a 24/7 drive-thru and a house-made salsa bar featuring 4-5 varieties. Atmosphere is chill and quiet with light traffic and some signs of wear. Known for large, filling tacos and a variety of authentic dishes.

Fish tacos stand out for being extremely fresh and consistently delicious. Tacos come very large and filling, with options like carnitas overflowing with meat and flavorful Al pastor.

An open salsa bar offers a variety including hot red salsa, creamy green salsa, and avocado salsa. Chips come with good salsa, even if a bit unusual, and pair well with burritos.

People are saying

"I loved the variety of salsas they offered."

"I thought the fish tacos were the best I'd ever had."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open 24 hours, which is convenient for late-night cravings.

2

There is a surcharge if you pay with a credit card.

3

The drive-thru is available for take-out orders.

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Quaint bistro with authentic Mexican decor and soft lighting creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Classic Mexican music plays, adding to the vibrant yet cozy vibe. Outdoor seating and a separate upstairs area offer varied spaces for dining and meetings.

Grilled fish tacos come perfectly battered thin and crisp with a baja style that stands out. Tacos feature perfect seasoning and pair well with rich mole and creamy guacamole.

Fresh chips come warm from the fryer and pair well with super fresh salsa. The salsa is so good that extra servings are often taken home.

People are saying

"I thought the fish tacos were the best I've had."

"The salsa and tortillas were both super fresh."

Good to know

1

Brunch includes unlimited mimosas at a great price.

2

Happy hour specials are available from 6pm.

3

Parking can be a challenge in the area.

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Long-established taco shop with a laid back atmosphere and salsa bar draws steady carryout traffic. Menu offers authentic Mexican flavors with generous portions and standout items like menudo and Al Pastor tacos. Interior is functional but average, with some parking challenges nearby.

Big, flavorful Al Pastor tacos stand out alongside excellent roll tacos and consistently good fish tacos. The spot offers solid ground beef tacos and cheese enchiladas in a mom and pop setting.

Fresh chips come with a great salsa bar featuring pico and red sauces. The red hot sauces range from mild with subtle heat to more intense flavors.

People are saying

"You have to try the Al Pastor tacos; they're big and really good."

"I loved their salsa bar, especially the pico and red sauce."

Good to know

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The menu has a great variety of meat, fish, and meatless options.

2

There are a few free parking spaces on the side of the restaurant.

3

Parking could be challenging at times since they no longer had the lot immediately adjacent to the restaurant.

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Outdoor seating offers fresh air and views of the street, creating a chill and authentic vibe with lively music and decor. The atmosphere stays relaxed and inviting, suitable for casual dining before heading out. Service is fast, accommodating quick visits in a quiet setting.

Birria tacos stand out with extremely tender beef and a soft flour taco shell. The flavor hits an 11/10, often paired with habanero onions for extra kick.

Salsa options include roasted chili peppers, oil salsa, and red salsa. A special macha salsa enhances the birria experience. They charge an extra dollar for salsa.

People are saying

"The tacos here are served by the friendliest people."

"I thought the birria here was amazing."

Good to know

1

664 TJ Birrieria closes at 9:30 PM; no food service after that time.

2

Parking is free but can get crowded; street parking is available nearby.

3

Expect to pay around $30 for four tacos and one drink.

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Hillcrest, San Diego

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