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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Kearny Mesa

Burrito and salsa spots

Made for those who believe a burrito is only as good as its salsa and refuse to eat a wrap that lacks a bold, house-made kick.

Based on 727 Opinions
+724
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Updated May 2026
01
Chacho's Tacos image 1
Chacho's Tacos image 2
Chacho's Tacos image 3
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Restaurant

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.

Burritos feature well-seasoned meat cooked on a flat top and a nice tortilla that holds its shape well. Options like the surf and turf and California burrito come with generous fillings and guacamole at no extra charge.

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.

People are saying

"The Carne Asada tacos here are really good and flavorful."

"The shrimp tacos here are flavorful and not fishy at all."

"I found the burrito here to be incredible."

Good to know

1

Most tacos cost about $3.99, making it an affordable option.

2

The food truck has shaded outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying your meal.

3

Catering services are available for events, providing a convenient option for large groups.

02
Cali's & Fries image 1
Mexican restaurant

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.

Burritos come in well portioned sizes with a focus on the California burrito made properly with crispy fries. Options include surf and turf, Peruvian, bean and cheese, and creative varieties, all served with a salsa bar.

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.

People are saying

"The salsa bar has awesome, tasty salsas and spicy carrots and jalapenos."

"The carne asada fries here are amazing and crispy."

"The Cali Burrito here has amazing flavor and crispy fries."

Good to know

1

$2 taco Tuesdays offer a budget-friendly option for visitors.

2

Cali's & Fries has plenty of parking available in front.

3

The restaurant is known for its clean bathrooms.

03
Rolbertos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with an extensive menu offers authentic dishes like carne asada burritos and fresh salsa. Atmosphere feels clean and casual but could benefit from updates. Popular during lunch hour, it draws those seeking reasonably priced meals with generous portions.

Burritos come stacked with meat and wrapped in soft but crispy homemade tortillas. Options like the Wild Burrito pack in grilled chicken, bacon, cheese, and fries, delivering a California burrito on steroids vibe.

Freshness stands out with both green salsa and red salsa options. The salsas pair well with dishes like fish tacos and burritos, enhancing their flavors.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and fresh."

"I thought the carne asada burrito was the best I ever had."

"The salsa here is so fresh and really good."

Good to know

1

Prices for meals are generally around $12.

2

The restaurant is easily accessible off Highway 15.

3

Parking can be tricky due to unusual traffic flow.

04
The Taco Stand image 1
Taco restaurant

Space is extremely narrow with limited seating, mostly standing room and a small counter. Atmosphere feels crowded and lively, with Mexican music playing and customers often brushing shoulders. Guests can watch homemade tortillas being prepared and enjoy a serve-yourself salsa bar.

Burritos come large and warm, wrapped with a cheesy crust cooked just right. The California burrito stands out, packed with flavor and very filling, often featuring chicken or mar y tierra options.

Salsa options cover all spice levels, with a chunky habañero standing out. The extra hot red salsa in closed cups offers a strong kick.

People are saying

"These tacos are worth the wait; they're the best in San Diego."

"You must try the California burrito; it's excellent."

"I found the salsas to be incredibly flavorful and fresh."

Good to know

1

The Taco Stand operates as an order-and-go type place with no seating available.

2

Parking can be challenging at The Taco Stand.

3

I recommend ordering ahead because they get busy.

05
Burros & Fries - Kearny Mesa image 1

Mexican restaurant offers inventive menu with wide variety and notable burritos praised for flavor. Atmosphere includes loud kitchen noise and presence of tiny fruit flies, with no air conditioning but an open door for airflow. Salsa bar stands out as clean and fresh feature.

Shrimp Cali and surf & turf burritos stand out with tasty meat and fresh flavors. Breakfast options include hashbrown burritos with crema, offering a unique twist that many enjoy regularly.

A clean and fresh salsa bar offers a variety of options including a house red salsa with a strong onion and garlic kick. The guac salsa stands out as a great choice often used.

People are saying

"I thought the burritos here were the best I ate all year."

"I loved the house salsa for its onion and garlic kick."

"The staff here are so friendly and welcoming."

Good to know

1

The restaurant maintains a clean and neat environment for diners.

2

Expect a variety of inventive menu items that cater to different tastes.

3

Prices are on the higher side, with some dishes exceeding $20.

06
Brother’s Mexican Food 3 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers free chips and salsa bar with wide menu options including dishes not usually found nearby. Seating is limited and no-frills, with a casual atmosphere. Food features large portions and fresh salsas, attracting those seeking hearty, flavorful meals.

Burritos here come well stuffed with ingredients like chile relleno, beans, rice, and cheese. Options like the Cali burrito and salsa verde pork stand out for their flavor and filling portions.

Salsas here taste fresh and come in several varieties. A free chips and salsa bar is available, and the family staff offers plenty of recommendations.

People are saying

"I found the California burrito to be outstanding and perfect."

"I found the food here to be delicious and bursting with flavor."

"The salsa here is legit fresh."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes not typically found in local Mexican restaurants.

2

The portion sizes of the dishes are generous.

3

The pricing is considered good for the quality of food offered.

07
Casa Machado Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Restaurant offers airport runway views with planes taking off and landing visible from inside. Atmosphere blends Mexican culture with airplane decor, creating a unique and lively vibe. Separate bar area features big screens for sports, attracting groups and company gatherings.

Huge burritos stand out here, especially the carne asada and ribeye options. The carne asada burrito tastes very fresh and offers a refreshing flavor. A bean and cheese burrito comes with a side of fries, and catering includes ingredients for fresh flour tortilla burritos or tacos.

Chips come with spicy salsa that stands out for its flavor. Both chips and salsa are consistently described as excellent and incredible.

People are saying

"I love the Mexican food here; the view of planes is amazing."

"The chips and salsa here are really great."

"I loved the fresh carne asada burrito."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 pm to 9 pm with various drink specials.

2

Daily specials are available throughout the week, offering great value.

3

The restaurant is located on the second floor of Montgomery Airport.

08
Gualberto's 2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant offers large portions with affordable prices and fresh tortillas. Atmosphere gets crowded during lunch hours, with limited parking nearby. Known for flavorful carne asada and spicy red salsa.

Breakfast burritos come with real potatoes instead of fries and are large enough to share. The veggie burrito offers a warm, unique mix, while the chile verde and chorizo burritos stand out for flavor and size.

Chunky mild salsa once features noticeable pieces of tomato, onion, and cilantro but now turns watery and tasteless. Spicy red salsa remains actually spicy and delicious.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and a great value."

"I had the best breakfast burrito ever here."

"I loved their tasty, chunky mild salsa with noticeable tomato and cilantro."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tight during dinner hours; consider street parking or back lot.

2

Prices are affordable, with large portions offered at a fair price.

3

They serve breakfast all day, making it a versatile dining option.

09
Sombrero Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant inside a gas station offers both inside and outside seating with a clean atmosphere. The salsa bar stands out with flavorful options, and the food includes crispy tacos and quality flour tortillas for burritos. The place closes early, creating a quieter pace later in the day.

Very good quality flour tortillas wrap large burritos loaded with shredded beef, scrambled eggs, onions, green peppers, and pico de gallo. Breakfast burritos come with ham, bacon, sausage, beans, and cheese and can satisfy two people easily.

Salsa bar offers a variety of options with red salsas standing out as very good. The bar is generally good but could use a bit more cleaning.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was awesome and delicious."

"I found the Mexican food inside this gas station awesome."

"The breakfast burrito was outstanding and loaded with fillings."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 3 p.m. on weekends.

2

The breakfast taco costs $4.25 and is filling.

3

Prices at Sombrero Mexican Food are reasonable.

10
Castañeda's Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant open 24 hours with large portions and a tasty salsa bar. Atmosphere feels cozy but shows some wear and tear. Popular for carne asada tacos and carne asada fries considered among the best in the area.

California burrito stands out as a favorite with a good size and price. Fish burritos also get high marks, competing well with other local spots. The Chorizo Burrito offers solid value and flavor.

Salsa bar offers a variety of fresh and flavorful salsas including a dark green and a brownish red that stand out. Hot carrots are thick-cut, well cooked, and add a spicy kick.

People are saying

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

"I loved their Carne Asada fries; they're the best I've had."

"I thought the California burrito here was the best."

Good to know

1

Castañeda's is open 24 hours for convenient late-night dining.

2

Expect large portions; carne asada fries weigh over 2 pounds.

3

Prices are reasonable, with meals averaging around $17.

11
Soto's Mexican Food #2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers quick service with huge portions and a varied salsa bar featuring about six options. Atmosphere is laid back and quiet, suitable for a casual, fast meal. Food quality stands out, especially in dishes like carne asada and Albondigas soup.

Burritos here come with flavorful fillings like fried fish, shrimp, chorizo, and beans with cheese. Options include breakfast varieties and California styles, often served quickly within five minutes.

Free chips come with a variety of salsa selections. The thick spicy red salsa stands out among the options.

People are saying

"I loved the huge burritos and carne asada plate."

"I found the food here to be quick, excellent, and of high quality."

"I tried the Chorizo Burrito and it was good."

Good to know

1

Expect quick service, with some orders ready in under five minutes.

2

Prices are not displayed on the menu, so be prepared for surprises.

3

The restaurant offers a self-serve chips and salsa bar with six salsa options.

12
La Fuente Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant with an open layout and fresh salsa bar. Atmosphere stays clean and lively without being too loud. Offers a great burrito selection and a comfortable place to dine with friends or family.

Burritos come with shredded beef, Diablo Shrimp with spicy heat, and surf and turf options. The Cali burrito stands out for being fresh, flavorful, and filling.

A fresh salsa bar offers a variety of hot and flavorful salsas including Avocado and Habanero options. Cucumbers are available to help calm the spice for those who need it.

People are saying

"The Cali burrito here is super flavorful and perfectly filling."

"I loved the great salsas they offered."

"You have to try the birria pizza; it's so delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features $2 tacos and $3.50 mulitas.

2

Expect a reasonable wait time for food during busy hours.

3

Parking is usually available near the restaurant.

13
El Gordo Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

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.

Burritos come huge, often enough for more than one meal or to share. Options include the California burrito with a pillowy tortilla and crispy fries, the Azteca with a good balance of rice and seasoned beef, and a solid carnitas burrito. The hot Cheetos burrito features fries but can be customized with rice and extra chipotle sauce.

An amazing salsa bar offers about seven different salsas, from mild to very spicy. The medium chunky salsa and green chili and orange salsas stand out with perfect flavors.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here has amazing flavors and perfect meat."

"I tried four different salsas, all of which were delicious."

"I loved the huge burrito with crispy fries and perfect meat."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $7 for each taco, which is on the higher side.

2

The restaurant offers generous portions, especially for tacos.

3

Combo prices range from $10 to $20, which is reasonable for the area.

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Kearny Mesa, San Diego

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