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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Pacific Beach's best

Tacos and Mexican food

A taco that captures the authentic spirit of Mexican food rather than just serving up a basic shell and filling.

Based on 813 Opinions
+810
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Updated May 2026
01
Diego’s Street Tacos image 1
Diego’s Street Tacos image 2
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Taco restaurant

Family-run taco spot offers authentic street-style Mexican food with handmade tortillas and generous portions. Atmosphere feels homey and inviting, reflecting a neighborhood vibe rather than mass production. Flavors focus on well-seasoned meats like carne asada and adobada, paired with fresh salsas.

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.

Tacos here feature fresh corn tortillas and are packed with authentic flavors like carne asada, al pastor, and adobada. The spot feels like a genuine neighborhood taco joint owned by a local Mexican family.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the tacos here to be amazing."

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

Mexican restaurant offers authentic birria tacos with tender, flavorful meat at reasonable prices. Interior feels cozy and cute, focusing on doing a few dishes very well. The atmosphere is casual with a clean setup and a 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.

Birria tacos come out fresh and hot, served with flavorful consomé. The quesabirria tacos are made very well and often prompt ordering more due to their delicious taste.

People are saying

"The birria here is authentic and ridiculously delicious."

"The food here is ridiculously delicious and amazing."

"These birria tacos are flavorful with tender meat."

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 Mexican restaurant with a quiet, relaxed atmosphere and a welcoming, family-style vibe. Offers handmade corn tortillas and authentic dishes in a neat, casual setting with both indoor and puppy-friendly outdoor patio seating.

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.

Birria tacos stand out with tender meat and a slow-cooked consommé that keeps them succulent. Hard shell tacos offer generous portions and a fresh, grilled fish taco adds variety to the menu.

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 birria tacos here are phenomenal and full of flavor."

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

Food truck under a tent offers Baja style cuisine with fresh, made-to-order ceviche and generous portions. Atmosphere is sunny and peaceful during late morning, though nearby road and workshop can raise noise levels. Locally owned spot provides affordable prices and clear menu details on taco sizes.

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.

Smoked fish and Baja style fish tacos stand out with fresh cabbage, pico de gallo, and a delicious sauce. Specials like Taco Tuesday offer three tacos for $9, making the tacos both tasty and affordable.

People are saying

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

"I found the fish tacos to be super tasty."

"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
Cass Street Bar & Grill image 1

Booth seating and pool table fill a chill bar with a locals-only vibe and free popcorn. Music plays softly, and an outdoor area offers fresh air when open. The atmosphere stays relaxed, never too crowded, welcoming casual conversation and wine lovers alike.

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.

Fish tacos come with light seasoning and a fresh taste. Shrimp, steak, and the California taco stand out, along with burros and potatoes topped with grilled meat.

People are saying

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

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

"I visited three times a week for their delicious fish tacos."

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.

06
Lahaina Beach House image 1

Oceanfront bar and grill offers stunning beach views and a chill vibe with good music. The atmosphere ranges from relaxed daytime to noisy evenings. Popular for breakfast burritos and fish tacos, it draws a lively crowd enjoying affordable drinks by the sea.

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.

Fish tacos feature very nice fried fish and deliver a good flavor. They stand out as a must-try option.

People are saying

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

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

"The tacos here have an amazing 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.

07
Harry's taco club image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating on a street patio creates a hole in the wall vibe with a lively atmosphere. A bar with pool tables adjoins the space, offering two-for-one margaritas and other drinks. The spot draws crowds seeking highly rated burritos and tacos in a casual setting.

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.

Seafood tacos stand out with mahi mahi, scallops, and octopus options that are large and easy to eat. Innovative choices like octopus and surf and turf tacos come in a street taco style with soft tortillas and fresh toppings.

People are saying

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

"I thought the fish tacos were 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
Saco's Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with fresh, authentic flavors and a salsa bar offering various sauces. Interior feels cool and inviting despite simple seating, creating a casual atmosphere. Known for generous portions and well-prepared meats, it attracts those who value flavor and freshness.

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.

Tacos come with corn tortillas and feature fillings like Al Pastor, Carnitas, and cabeza. The chef brings over 30 years of experience, making the tacos consistently delicious and flavorful.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the tacos here to be extremely good."

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.

09
Areli's Taco Shop Pacific Beach image 1

Mexican restaurant offers authentic tacos and birria with rich flavors and freshly cooked carne asada. The atmosphere feels comfortable but shows minimal design attention. Family-owned with multiple hot sauce options and a focus on healthy portion sizes.

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.

Tacos here stand out for their authentic flavor and rich birria with consommé. Options include fish, pastor, grilled, and rolled tacos, all affordable and packed with taste.

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.

10
710 Beach Club image 1
American restaurant

American restaurant with Chicago-themed atmosphere and indoor-outdoor seating offers a lively vibe with live bands and local DJs. Energy peaks with sports on multiple TVs and a crowd that enjoys music and games like Cornhole. Volume can be high, creating an intense, stadium-like experience.

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

Fish tacos stand out with their fresh flavor. Mac and Cheese and carnitas tacos add unique variety to the menu.

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.

11
La Perla Cocina #2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Hole-in-the-wall taco shop with a simple setup and freshly cooked meat defines the space. Atmosphere feels unassuming with a no frills vibe and long wait times due to made-to-order preparation. Prices lean toward the higher side, but the quality California burritos stand out as a signature offering.

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.

Rolled tacos come fresh and crispy with a satisfying crunch. Shrimp and El pastor tacos offer bold flavors, while burritos include options like carne asada with sour cream and veggie fillings.

People are saying

"The California burrito here is massive and amazing."

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

"These tacos and burritos are really good."

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.

12
Rubio's Coastal Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with a Baja California feel and outdoor seating that includes heaters for cool evenings. Atmosphere is charming and old school, though the indoor space is tiny and cramped. Self-serve setup features a condiments bar with many salsa options.

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.

Fish tacos stand out with amazing flavors that need no extra toppings. Shrimp and Mahi mango tacos also offer excellent taste. Keto tacos with cheese shells provide a unique option.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the original fish tacos to be sublime."

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.

13
Taquería Los Ruiz image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating dominates with four and two-top tables under an open door that warms the space. A salsa bar adds a lively touch, complementing the homemade tortillas and generous portions that define the menu. The atmosphere balances casual dining with affordable prices and a steady lunch rush.

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.

Tacos come with massive portions and do not skimp on the meat. The carne asada and nopal tacos stand out for their authentic flavors.

People are saying

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

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

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

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.

14
Valerie's Taco Shop - Pacific Beach image 1

Mexican restaurant operates primarily as a 24-hour drive-thru with limited seating and a constant flow of cars. The atmosphere is hot inside but the place stays very clean. Known for affordable, satisfying burritos and tacos, it attracts locals looking for quick, reliable meals any time of day.

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.

Carnitas street tacos stand out as seriously good and a favorite choice. The crispy chicken tacos and shredded beef tacos also deliver satisfying flavors. Burritos and tacos come with quick, friendly service, making it a solid spot for late-night taco runs.

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.

15
Vallarta Express Mexican Eatery image 1

Mexican eatery with 24/7 service and a drive-thru option offers large burritos and clean kitchen and dining areas. Atmosphere is basic and convenient for quick meals. Popular for breakfast burritos and fish tacos with a 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.

Fish tacos stand out as hefty and delicious, often paired with surf & turf burritos. Rolled tacos come loaded with guacamole, cheese, and sour cream, offering generous portions about 1.5 times larger than other shops.

People are saying

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

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

"I thought their fish tacos were the best."

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.

16
El Rey Moro Taco Shop image 1
Taco restaurant

Lively taco restaurant with two TVs playing shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer and a spacious dining area filled with many tables. The vibe is random but enjoyable, attracting a crowd that appreciates authentic Mexican food with generous portions and reasonable prices near Pacific Beach.

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.

Soft shell chicken tacos stand out with their exceptional flavor. The Birra taco plate with soda offers a consistently delicious combo. The Cali burrito is ridiculously huge, and potato tacos add a solid option.

People are saying

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

"The Mexican food here is gigantic and tasty."

"The Birra taco plate is so delicious, I always order it."

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.

17
Bahia PB Mexican Grill And Juice Bar image 1

Small, casual Mexican eatery with a huge selection of juices and food including vegetarian options and daily specials. Atmosphere is unpretentious and clean, with a focus on quick, affordable meals like tacos and burritos. Menu is displayed above the cash register, and ordering is preferred in person rather than by phone.

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.

Lobster tacos stand out as a highlight, alongside nopales and fish tacos that offer unique flavors at an affordable price. Options like Birria, rolled, and street tacos provide variety, all costing around $7 for two.

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."

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

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.

18
The Beverly Beach Garden image 1

Rooftop garden offers ocean views and an open, airy space with natural light and greenery. Atmosphere varies from loud and crowded downstairs to a more relaxed vibe upstairs near the fire. Music features a loud, curated playlist that energizes the space.

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.

Ahi seared tacos stand out as excellent fish tacos. Taco plates come beautifully presented and include options like steak and chicken, all served by knowledgeable staff familiar with gluten allergies.

People are saying

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

"The steak tacos and taquitos were delicious."

"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.

19
Santana's Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with beautiful interior and a massive salsa bar offers a relaxed vibe and a drive-through service. The space suits large parties and maintains a chill atmosphere without being loud.

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.

Tacos come with fresh, flavorful meat and a variety of sauces including a cream sauce that stands out. Options like shrimp and machaca tacos offer tasty, filling choices that are simple but well done.

People are saying

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

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

"The tacos here are fresh and flavorful."

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.

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Pacific Beach, San Diego

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