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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Pacific Beach

Mexican food

Made for those who have no patience for watered-down versions of their favorite Mexican dishes.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Diego’s Street Tacos image 1
Diego’s Street Tacos image 2
Diego’s Street Tacos image 3
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Taco restaurant

Family-run taco spot serves handmade tortillas with flavorful carne asada and al pastor. Burritos come with generous steak portions and steak fries. Atmosphere feels homey and inviting, perfect for authentic street-style Mexican food.

Fresh corn tortillas hold up tacos packed with flavorful carne asada and al pastor. Burritos come loaded with generous steak and steak fries, while green salsa offers a perfect acidity and a hint of spice.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is the best in PB."

"The tortillas here are fresh and hand-made."

"The guacamole is fresh, creamy, and well-balanced."

Good to know

1

The portions are generous and offer great value.

2

The price is reasonable for the quality of food.

3

Parking is a bit tight, so arrive early.

02
664 TJ Birrieria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy authentic birria tacos with tender meat and rich consomé in a cozy, casual setting. Prices stay reasonable while flavors remain true to Mexican roots. Clean space includes a handy hand wash station for convenience.

Birria tacos come out fresh and hot with a rich consomé on the side. The flavor stays true to authentic Mexican style, making the tacos fast and delicious.

People are saying

"The birria here is authentic and ridiculously delicious."

"The food here is ridiculously delicious and amazing."

Good to know

1

Bring cash as there's a $0.65 fee for debit or credit card purchases.

2

The restaurant closes at 6pm instead of 8pm.

3

There are no public restrooms available at the restaurant.

03
Birrieria & Taqueria La Huasteca image 1

Small, cozy spot with a quiet atmosphere and family-style vibe. Enjoy birria tacos with rich consommé and a Cali Burrito that stands out. Outdoor patio welcomes pups, making it a neat, casual place for authentic Mexican food.

Birria tacos come with generous portions and rich, flavorful consommé. The Cali Burrito stands out for its taste, while menudo and pozole offer a comforting broth with deep seasoning. Horchata pairs well as a refreshing drink option.

People are saying

"I thought the birria tacos were some of the best Mexican food I've ever had."

"The outdoor seating area is super cute and comfortable."

"The menudo broth is rich, comforting, and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult to find near the restaurant.

2

The portions are larger than most places for the price.

3

The restaurant is known for its authentic birria tacos.

04
El Cevichero PB image 1
Taco restaurant

Enjoy smoked fish tacos with fresh cabbage and pico de gallo at this Baja style food truck. Generous portions and affordable prices make it a great spot. Sunny, peaceful atmosphere in late morning adds to the experience despite some nearby noise.

Smoked fish tacos stand out with fresh cabbage, pico de gallo, and a delicious sauce. Baja style fish and shrimp tacos come with tasty ceviche and salsas, plus specials like Taco Tuesday offer good value.

People are saying

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

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

"The fish tacos here are super tasty and on point."

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.

05
Coffee Cycle Roasting image 1

Small cafe offers an immersive coffee experience with fresh bean aroma and visible roasting. Vegetarian burritos shine with fresh ingredients and pair well with a flat white. Friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere despite nearby traffic noise.

Vegetarian burritos stand out with fresh ingredients and solid flavor. The menu pairs well with a flat white for a balanced meal.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee was spectacular, with citrus and floral notes."

"The cafe staff here are so friendly and knowledgeable about coffee."

"The staff serving the Mexican food were the nicest people."

Good to know

1

Coffee Cycle Roasting offers only outdoor seating for customers.

2

They roast their own beans in-house for maximum freshness.

3

Alternative milks like housemade cashew and macadamia nut are available.

06
Kono's Cafe image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor seating offers incredible ocean views and a lively beach vibe. Breakfast burritos are huge and flavorful, packed with sausage, egg, and avocado. Tacos al pastor provide a solid flavor and great value, making it a top spot for Mexican breakfast by the sea.

Breakfast burritos stand out with their huge size and tasty fillings like sausage, egg, and avocado. Tacos al pastor also offer a good deal and solid flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and the portions are great."

"The breakfast here is amazing and filling enough for two people."

"The breakfast burritos here are tasty and full of fresh ingredients."

Good to know

1

The line at Kono's Cafe gets long, so arrive early to avoid waiting.

2

Parking can be challenging, so consider alternative transportation options.

3

Food portions are large enough to share, making it a good value.

07
Harry's taco club image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating and a lively bar with two-for-one margaritas create a fun vibe. Burritos, especially the California burrito, are large and flavorful. Tacos come in street style portions with quick, friendly service.

The California burrito stands out for its size and flavor, often considered the best around. Tacos come in large, street style portions with options like steak and shrimp or octopus, all served quickly with friendly service.

People are saying

"I thought the burritos here were the best I've ever had."

"The seafood tacos here are delicious and amazing."

"These burritos are the most flavorful Mexican food I've ever tried."

Good to know

1

Harry's Taco Club accepts only cash payments.

2

The line at Harry's Taco Club is always long.

3

There was no space inside for dine-in, and only a few tables were outside.

08
Cass Street Bar & Grill image 1

Chill bar offers booth seating and a locals-only vibe with free popcorn and soft music. Fish tacos and Cali burritos with green sauce highlight the Mexican food menu. Outdoor area invites fresh air, perfect for casual chats and wine lovers.

Fish tacos come with light seasoning but stay popular alongside Cali burritos with green sauce. Shrimp, steak, and bean and cheese options add variety, while grilled meat with potatoes rounds out the menu.

People are saying

"You have to try their burritos; the Cali ones are amazing."

"It's a chill local spot where dogs gather."

"I found great beer deals, like $5 drinks all day."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but bringing ID is necessary.

2

The bar offers $5 drinks all day until 6 pm.

3

Karaoke happens on Wednesdays, providing a fun experience.

09
Madi Pacific Beach image 1
Brunch restaurant

Bright, airy spot with a beautiful patio offers huge portions and flavorful dishes. Mexican favorites like Chilaquiles Verdes and the breakfast burrito shine. Enjoy a mimosa selection that elevates the casual vibe.

Chilaquiles Verdes stand out as very delicious and perfectly made. The breakfast burrito earns high praise for its flavor. Other items like the burrito and churro waffles also deliver tasty experiences.

People are saying

"Our server Caroline was so sweet and attentive during Brunch."

"The lemon ricotta pancakes for breakfast were outstanding."

"The chilaquiles here are amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking is free in the lot on the storefront side, but costs $24 on the other side.

2

A 20% gratuity is included in the bill for large parties.

3

Indoor and outdoor seating options are available.

10
Lahaina Beach House image 1

Oceanfront bar and grill offers stunning beach views and a chill vibe with good music. Mexican dishes like burritos and tacos are small but tasty, though burritos feel pricey for their size. Crowd enjoys affordable drinks and lively atmosphere from day to night.

Burritos and tacos come out smaller than usual but taste good. Burrito prices are high compared to portion size, resembling a simple bean burrito from a fast-food chain.

People are saying

"It's a fun beach bar with cold beer and great music."

"The sunset views here are amazing."

"The Mexican food here has an amazing oceanfront view."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited near the beach, so arrive early.

2

The bar opens at 9am for breakfast on weekends.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere throughout the day.

11
Saco's Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy authentic street tacos like Al Pastor and Carnitas with fresh, toasted tortas on soft, sweet bread. Generous portions and a varied salsa bar enhance every bite. Casual, inviting atmosphere makes it perfect for flavor lovers seeking freshness and comfort.

Street mini tacos like Al Pastor, Carnitas, and cabeza stand out with authentic flavors. The California burrito is generously sized and highly praised. Quesadillas come large without too much cheese, and tortas feature fresh, toasted bread with a soft, sweet texture. A wide variety of salsas complements the dishes, and corn tortillas and quinoa options cater to dietary needs.

People are saying

"I found the California burrito to be amazing and five stars."

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

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

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.

12
Areli's Taco Shop Pacific Beach image 1

Enjoy authentic tacos and carne asada burritos with rich, fresh flavors in a family-owned spot. Multiple hot sauces add zest while healthy portions keep meals satisfying. Atmosphere is simple but comfortable, focusing on food quality over decor.

Carne asada burritos stand out with fresh, perfectly cooked meat and rich flavor. Tacos, including Birria and grilled varieties, offer authentic, affordable Mexican flavors with consistent quality.

People are saying

"I thought the California burrito was the best in Pacific Beach."

"I always ask for my Taco fries well done; it's a game changer."

"You have to try their Cali burrito; it's the best in San Diego."

Good to know

1

Tacos ala carte cost between $4.99 and $5.50.

2

The food is prepared within five minutes.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment.

13
Earlybird Breakfast Burritos - Pacific Beach image 1

Outdoor seating with shaded umbrellas offers a relaxing vibe by the water. Mega-sized breakfast burritos packed with flavorful chorizo and crispy tater tots make it a top spot for Mexican food lovers. Great music adds to the lively, beach-ready atmosphere.

Breakfast burritos come mega-sized with layers of flavorful chorizo and perfectly spiced carne. Crispy tater tots and melted cheese add a great touch to these consistently amazing burritos.

People are saying

"The breakfast burritos here are amazing and delicious."

"The eggs in these burritos are fluffy as clouds."

"These breakfast burritos are flavorful and amazing."

Good to know

1

They do not accept cash, only credit cards and mobile payments.

2

They open at 7am-12pm on Sunday to Thursday and 7am-2pm on Friday and Saturday.

3

Parking can be a little confusing in the back, but there are plenty of spaces.

14
Woody's Breakfast And Burgers image 1

Cafe offers breathtaking ocean views and a laid back outdoor seating perfect for relaxing. Breakfast burritos with carnitas and carne asada shine, paired with fresh salsa verde. The lively, dog-friendly vibe makes it great for casual dining and people watching.

Breakfast burritos stand out with carnitas and carne asada options praised for their quality. The salsa verde and potatoes complement the burritos well, and the menu includes a tasty "Benji burrito" for kids.

People are saying

"The breakfast burritos here are amazing."

"I loved the ocean view while watching the sunset."

"The breakfast burritos here are amazing, especially the carne asada."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during weekend brunch, especially on sunny days.

2

Parking is limited; arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Bottomless mimosas are available on weekends for brunch.

15
Taquería Los Ruiz image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating with open door warmth creates a casual vibe. Burritos feature charred tortillas and bold flavors. Salsa bar livens up the space, while homemade tortillas and generous portions keep prices affordable and lunch rush steady.

Burritos stand out with flavorful ingredients and great charred tortillas. The nopal tacos offer authentic taste, paired with fresh corn tortillas and well-spiced horchata.

People are saying

"I had the best authentic tacos and burritos ever."

"The tortillas here are fresh and well-toasted."

"The carne asada here is tender and the portions are generous."

Good to know

1

Watch out for long wait times during the lunch rush.

2

The restaurant offers generous portions for the price.

3

Homemade tortillas are used in all dishes.

16
710 Beach Club image 1
American restaurant

American restaurant buzzes with live bands and a Chicago-themed atmosphere. Fish tacos shine with fresh, flavorful fillings during Taco Tuesday. Multiple TVs and games like Cornhole add to the lively vibe and intense energy.

Fish tacos stand out with fresh, flavorful fillings. Assorted tacos include carnitas and other tasty options, often featured in a Taco Tuesday special.

People are saying

"The atmosphere for live sports here is super fun and lively."

"I loved their affordable weekday lunch specials around $10."

"I loved the live music and returned for the country band set."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Sunday night, attracting a lively crowd.

2

No one under 21 is allowed inside or at the outside tables.

3

Expect a $2.5 wellness charge added to your bill.

17
La Perla Cocina #2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Hole-in-the-wall taco shop offers freshly cooked meat and a no frills vibe with long waits. California burritos shine with juicy carne asada and plenty of guacamole. Prices are higher but match the quality and generous portions.

California burritos stand out with juicy carne asada, perfectly cooked fries, and plenty of guacamole. Breakfast burritos and the surf and turf burrito also offer generous portions and fresh, hot ingredients.

People are saying

"The California burrito here is massive and amazing."

"The seafood burritos here are outstanding and juicy."

"I'd eat the California Burrito here weekly; it's amazing."

Good to know

1

The burrito costs $14.00 without tip.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours.

3

Parking is almost nonexistent at both locations.

18
Rubio's Coastal Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot with phenomenal fish tacos and a varied salsa bar. Outdoor seating feels like Baja California with heaters for cool nights. Indoor space is tiny but the charming old school vibe makes up for it.

Fish tacos stand out with phenomenal flavor and require no extra toppings. The extensive salsa bar offers a variety of flavors like tomatillo and smoky options that pair well with dishes. Tortilla Soup and shrimp tacos also deliver strong, memorable tastes.

People are saying

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

"I found the fish tacos here to be great and sublime."

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

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos, making it a popular choice.

2

Expect long lines during Taco Tuesday, especially at peak hours.

3

The restaurant has outdoor seating only, which may limit options in bad weather.

19
Valerie's Taco Shop - Pacific Beach image 1

Mexican food shines with fattest breakfast burritos and tasty carnitas street tacos. Drive-thru stays open 24 hours, perfect for late-night cravings. Clean spot with limited seating keeps service quick and meals affordable.

Breakfast burritos stand out with their fattest size and consistent quality. Tacos like carnitas street and crispy chicken offer satisfying flavors and quick service supports late-night cravings.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and tasty."

"I considered these the best carnitas street tacos I had."

"I thought the breakfast burritos were delicious."

Good to know

1

Valerie's Taco Shop is open 24 hours for late-night cravings.

2

The taco shop offers affordable prices for quick meals.

3

Cleanliness is a priority, with an A rating from health inspectors.

20
El Rey Moro Taco Shop image 1
Taco restaurant

Lively taco spot near Pacific Beach offers generous portions of authentic Mexican dishes like carne asada burritos and soft shell chicken tacos. Spacious dining with two TVs adds to the random but enjoyable vibe. Prices stay reasonable for quality and size.

Burritos come in large portions with consistent quality, especially the carne asada and Al Pastor varieties. Soft shell chicken tacos and chilaquiles with chicken stand out for flavor and size, while the horchata balances sweetness well.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and has great flavor."

"I loved the pineapple and jalapeno in this Carne Asada burrito."

"The Mexican food here is gigantic and tasty."

Good to know

1

The prices at El Rey Moro Taco Shop are reasonable for the Pacific Beach area.

2

Ordering through Grubhub offers the best prices as menu prices may vary.

3

There is plenty of parking available near the taco shop.

21
Vallarta Express Mexican Eatery image 1

Offers 24/7 service with a drive-thru for quick meals. Burritos are hefty portions with bold flavors, especially the fish tacos and surf & turf. Clean kitchen and dining areas create a simple, neighborhood taco shop vibe.

Burritos here have exceptional flavour and come in hefty portions that are about 1.5 times larger than other spots. Fish tacos and surf & turf burritos stand out as delicious and filling options, with the breakfast and vegetarian burritos also highly regarded.

People are saying

"I loved the massive burritos and loaded fries here."

"I always asked for the big, chunky salsa with my meal."

"I got the carnitas plate through the Drive Thru; it was delicious."

Good to know

1

Vallarta Express is open 24/7 for convenient dining.

2

The restaurant offers a drive-thru option for quick service.

3

Parking is very limited at Vallarta Express.

22
Bahia PB Mexican Grill And Juice Bar image 1

Small Mexican eatery offers lobster tacos and hearty burritos with fries. Juices come in many flavors, including vegetarian options. Clean, casual spot with a spicy salsa bar and quick, affordable meals.

Tacos stand out with lobster, nopales, and carne asada options that are both delicious and affordable. Burritos pack in meat and fries without fillers, while a salsa bar offers a spicy kick suitable for everyone.

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be the best Mexican food I've ever had."

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

"This burrito is enormous and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Expect a $0.50 charge for credit card payments.

2

Parking is free and available nearby.

3

Tacos are priced at $7 for two, making them a budget-friendly option.

23
Santana's Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican food shines with California burritos and a massive salsa bar full of fresh options. Interior offers a beautiful space that suits large groups and keeps a relaxed vibe. Drive-through adds quick convenience without noise.

California burritos stand out with fresh ingredients and a perfect green salsa. The menu offers a massive salsa bar and dishes like shrimp tacos, menudo, and quesadillas with mushrooms and adobada meat.

People are saying

"I loved their red salsa; I could drink it by the gallon."

"I thought Santana's Mexican Food served the best burrito I had in San Diego."

"I loved the burritos; they were so hot and delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers tacos for $1.60 each.

2

The drive-thru service is quick and easy.

3

Parking is ample and convenient.

24
The Beverly Beach Garden image 1

Rooftop garden offers ocean views and a relaxed vibe near the fire. Ahi seared tacos are best fish tacos with gluten-free options and allergy-aware staff. Loud, curated music energizes the space downstairs.

Ahi seared tacos stand out as some of the best fish tacos around. The menu offers wagyu taquitos and octopus sopes, both flavorful with the sopes on the smaller side. Tacos are a safe gluten-free choice with staff aware of allergies.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is so friendly and attentive."

"The rooftop views and water features here are super cool."

"You have to try the birria dumplings; they're so good."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 45-50 minutes for a table on weekends.

2

The rooftop area is not accessible for children under 21.

3

Private events can be hosted on the rooftop for over 50 guests.

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Pacific Beach, San Diego

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