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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Pacific Beach

Taco spots

A taco that stands on its own merits without needing a mountain of toppings to hide the lack of flavor.

Based on 653 Opinions
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Updated July 2026
01
664 TJ Birrieria image 1
664 TJ Birrieria image 2
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Mexican restaurant

Enjoy authentic birria tacos with tender meat and rich consomé in a cozy, casual atmosphere. Prices stay reasonable while the clean setup and hand wash station add convenience. Quesabirria tacos stand out, often tempting guests to order more.

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.

02
Diego’s Street Tacos image 1
Taco restaurant

Family-run spot serves handmade tortillas with authentic carne asada and adobada tacos. Atmosphere feels homey and inviting, perfect for a neighborhood vibe. Generous portions and fresh salsas make every bite satisfying.

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.

03
Birrieria & Taqueria La Huasteca image 1

Small, cozy spot with a quiet atmosphere and family-style vibe. Birria tacos shine with tender meat and slow-cooked consommé. Handmade corn tortillas and a puppy-friendly patio add to the authentic, relaxed experience.

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

Baja style tacos shine with smoked fish and fresh toppings. Food truck serves generous portions at great prices, like Taco Tuesday's deal. Sunny, peaceful spot turns noisy near the road but stays welcoming and affordable.

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."

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

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

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

Chill bar offers booth seating and a locals-only vibe with free popcorn and soft music. Fish tacos bring a fresh taste with light seasoning, while shrimp and steak tacos stand out. Outdoor area adds fresh air, perfect for casual chats and wine lovers.

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. Fish tacos are a must-try with very nice fried fish and great flavor. Enjoy affordable drinks while soaking in the lively, relaxed atmosphere.

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 sunset views here are amazing."

"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 and a lively bar with two-for-one margaritas create a fun vibe. Burritos and seafood tacos like mahi mahi and octopus are highly rated and easy to eat. Casual spot with pool tables draws crowds for tasty, innovative eats.

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."

"The seafood tacos here are delicious and amazing."

"I thought the fish tacos were delicious and amazing."

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 shines with fresh, authentic flavors and a lively salsa bar. Tacos feature corn tortillas and fillings like Al Pastor, crafted by a chef with over 30 years of experience. Casual vibe and generous portions make it a top spot for flavor lovers.

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."

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

"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
710 Beach Club image 1
American restaurant

American restaurant buzzes with Chicago-themed atmosphere and lively music from live bands and DJs. Fish tacos offer fresh flavor amid a menu with unique options like mac and cheese and carnitas tacos. Multiple TVs and games like Cornhole create an intense, stadium-like experience.

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 the band had a great sound."

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.

10
Rubio's Coastal Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot with a Baja California vibe and cozy outdoor seating with heaters. Fish tacos shine with amazing flavors needing no extras, while shrimp and Mahi mango tacos impress. Keto tacos with cheese shells offer a unique twist. Charming, old school atmosphere feels inviting despite tight indoor space.

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."

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

"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.

11
La Perla Cocina #2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Hole-in-the-wall spot serves freshly cooked meat in a no-frills setting with long waits. Tacos like shrimp and El pastor pack bold flavors, while California burritos shine as a signature. Prices are higher but match the quality and taste.

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."

"The seafood burritos here are outstanding and juicy."

"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
Areli's Taco Shop Pacific Beach image 1

Mexican restaurant serves authentic tacos with rich birria and fresh carne asada. Family-owned spot offers multiple hot sauces and healthy portions. Atmosphere is simple but comfortable, focusing on flavor over design.

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."

"I found the Mexican food here to be authentic and the best."

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
Valerie's Taco Shop - Pacific Beach image 1

Known for carnitas street tacos, this 24-hour Mexican spot offers quick, friendly service and affordable, satisfying meals. Limited seating and a clean, hot atmosphere make it ideal for late-night taco runs or quick burrito fixes.

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."

"It's a great late night spot, open 24 hours."

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.

14
Taquería Los Ruiz image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating with an open door creates a warm, casual vibe. Tacos feature massive portions and authentic flavors like carne asada and nopal. A lively salsa bar and homemade tortillas make meals generous and affordable.

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.

15
Vallarta Express Mexican Eatery image 1

Mexican eatery serves hefty fish tacos and large burritos with fresh guacamole and cheese. Open 24/7 with a drive-thru option, it offers quick, clean dining. Perfect for a fast, tasty meal any time.

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
Bahia PB Mexican Grill And Juice Bar image 1

Small Mexican eatery offers lobster tacos and vegetarian options with daily specials. Atmosphere is unpretentious and clean, focusing on quick, affordable meals like tacos and burritos. Menu above cash register encourages in-person ordering.

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.

17
El Rey Moro Taco Shop image 1
Taco restaurant

Lively spot near Pacific Beach offers soft shell chicken tacos with bold flavors and a spacious dining area filled with many tables. TVs show fun series like Buffy, creating a random but enjoyable vibe. Generous portions and fair prices keep locals coming back.

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."

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

"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.

18
The Beverly Beach Garden image 1

Rooftop garden offers ocean views and a calm vibe near the fire. Ahi seared tacos shine as excellent fish tacos with gluten-aware service. Loud, curated music energizes the space downstairs.

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 rooftop views and water features here are super cool."

"The steak tacos and taquitos were delicious."

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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