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Taco date spots in La Jolla

You want the casual ease of a taco dinner without losing the intentionality of a date night.

Based on 542 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Eddie V's Prime Seafood image 1
Eddie V's Prime Seafood image 2
Eddie V's Prime Seafood image 3
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Seafood restaurant

Panoramic ocean views define the setting, especially from the outdoor patio with heated lamps and a fire pit for warmth. The atmosphere stays elegant and quiet, welcoming guests with attentive service and thoughtful touches like table decorations and complimentary champagne. The place draws those seeking a refined dining experience paired with stunning scenery.

Special occasions get extra attention with table decorations and champagne. Staff often acknowledge birthdays and anniversaries, creating a memorable atmosphere for couples.

Lobster tacos stand out with Maine lobster delivering rich, fresh flavor. They serve as a popular appetizer alongside other seafood options like crab fried rice.

People are saying

"The ocean view here is spectacular and to die for."

"The service at these Date Spots makes you feel genuinely cared for."

"They decorated our table with rose petals for our anniversary."

Good to know

1

Reservations are essential as the restaurant is often fully booked.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm daily with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Valet parking is recommended due to limited street parking availability.

02
La Corriente La Jolla image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space blends French cafรฉ and beach bungalow styles with beautiful decor and terrace seating. Atmosphere stays laid back and soothing, ideal for conversation. Guests enjoy authentic Mexican flavors and warm hospitality.

Quieter evenings create a relaxed vibe with just a few locals and families around. The menu features soft shell crab tacos and several other delicious dishes that make for a pleasant shared meal.

Softshell crab tacos deliver a life-changing experience with unique flavor. Rib eye and Artichoke tacos stand out for their layered flavors and crispy textures.

People are saying

"I've never had a fresher, crispier fish taco."

"I've never had a fresher, crispier fish taco."

"The ceviche and fish tacos here are incredibly fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour ends promptly at 6pm; order before then to get the discount.

2

The restaurant has limited seating, so expect a wait during peak hours.

3

Parking is not available; consider alternative transportation options.

03
Beeside Balcony La Jolla image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Open-air Mediterranean restaurant offers breathtaking ocean views and an elevated patio that reduces street noise. Live music sets a classy beach town vibe with a vibrant atmosphere that feels both lively and welcoming.

Early dinner dates offer a relaxed vibe with a focus on seafood dishes like octopus, which some may find unique. The setting suits couples looking for a quiet, enjoyable meal together.

Rockfish tacos stand out for their flavor and popularity. Shrimp tacos and Octopus ceviche also appear as tasty seafood options alongside grilled feta cheese sandwiches.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots was spectacular and did not disappoint."

"The shrimp and rockfish tacos here are terrific."

"The drinks here are unique and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great prices on drinks and appetizers.

2

The happy hour menu is available upon request from the staff.

3

Parking is generally easy, but can be difficult during peak hours.

04
El Pescador Fish Market image 1

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.

Seafood dishes like grilled octopus and Cioppino stand out for date nights. The calamari steak sandwich offers a unique option priced around $17.

Fresh seafood shines in the fish tacos, which come in varieties like snapper and tuna. Kids enjoy the fish tacos and the kids catch, while the grilled octopus sandwich adds another flavorful option.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The fish tacos here are huge and delicious."

"The grilled octopus here is amazing for Date Spots."

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.

05
Public House La Jolla image 1
American restaurant

Cozy converted building with indoor and outdoor seating including a heated shaded patio creates a homey vibe. Numerous sports screens and live music add casual energy. The atmosphere feels low-energy and relaxed, attracting those who enjoy a quiet spot for drinks and games.

Waitstaff offers helpful advice on rotating drafts and beer choices. The burger is a solid option for a casual meal.

Tacos feature fresh, high-quality ingredients with standout options like fish tacos and a substantial vegan taco. Both fish and chips and tacos maintain excellent flavor and quality.

People are saying

"I loved their amazing craft beer selection."

"The burgers and fish and chips here are excellent."

"I found the fish tacos to be great."

Good to know

1

Half-off burgers are available on Tuesdays.

2

Happy hour offers daily specials, including half-price sliders.

3

Parking is plentiful near the restaurant.

06
Don Carlos Taco Shopึ‰ image 1
Mexican restaurant

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.

Frequent visits show this spot works well for couples. Options include a vegan tamale and easy to-go orders that fit busy schedules.

Fish tacos stand out with their huge size and tasty flavor. Other tacos like steak, ground beef, and grilled chicken come with rich, satisfying flavor and generous portions.

People are saying

"I thought this burrito was the best I had ever tasted."

"I found the tacos here to be delicious and huge."

"I found the food here to be excellent 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.

07
Verdes El Ranchero image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a cozy bar and relaxed, friendly atmosphere plays classic rock music, creating a Southern California vibe. The space is dark and loud, attracting a lively crowd. Pets are welcome, adding to the casual, inviting feel.

Couples visit regularly, making it a common spot for dates. Service lacks warmth, with waitstaff not responding to thanks, and occasional discomfort follows meals.

Shrimp tacos and beer battered fish tacos on homemade flour tortillas stand out. Tostadas and veggie tacos offer solid options. Queso adds a nice touch to the taco experience.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and authentic."

"I found the tacos to be delicious."

"I would recommend this place for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Reservations are not required, but the restaurant gets busy quickly.

3

The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating available.

08
The Spot La Jolla image 1

Bar and grill with ocean views and an indoor-outdoor second story creates a lively, cozy atmosphere. Outdoor seating is dog friendly and popular, while multiple sports TVs show several games simultaneously. The place fills up and gets loud, especially later in the evening.

Fish tacos come out perfect and the chicken bacon Alfredo offers a rich, satisfying option for a date meal.

Fish tacos stand out with fried Mahi Mahi and blackened preparations that deliver strong flavor. Both the fish tacos and chicken fingers offer exceptional taste and freshness.

People are saying

"The bar food here is some of the best I've ever had."

"The service here is so friendly and attentive for date spots."

"I highly recommend the fried fish tacos."

Good to know

1

Parking at The Spot can be challenging.

2

They have Trivia Night on Tuesdays.

3

Happy Hour gives $3 off appetizers.

09
Jose's CourtRoom image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating offers ocean views with heaters and umbrellas for comfort. The atmosphere is lively and noisy with live guitar music and football highlights playing. Large, dog-friendly bar and fun, colorful vibe attract a diverse crowd.

Outdoor seating offers a relaxed spot to enjoy drinks and tacos while watching the sunset. Shared meals like enchiladas and burritos provide tasty, filling options for couples.

Shrimp tacos stand out with rich flavor and freshness. Chicken and fish tacos also deliver authentic taste alongside well-prepared salsa for chips.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and perfectly cooked."

"The service here for Date Spots is phenomenal and attentive."

"The shrimp tacos here had so much flavor and were delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 PM with discounted drinks and snacks.

2

Discounted tacos are available until 7:00 PM.

3

A surcharge fee applies when paying with a credit card.

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La Jolla, San Diego

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