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Local picks

Al pastor spots in San Jose

Made for those who judge a kitchen entirely by the quality of its al pastor.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Las Delicias De Toñita Taco Truck image 1
Las Delicias De Toñita Taco Truck image 2
Las Delicias De Toñita Taco Truck image 3
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Taco truck offers authentic Mexican flavors with handmade tortillas grilled fresh. Al pastor shines with tender, well-seasoned meat in tacos and gorditas. Outdoor seating under a parking lot mural creates a casual, relaxed vibe.

Al pastor stands out with authentic flavor and tender, well-seasoned meat. Handmade tortillas add a perfect touch, especially in tacos and gorditas.

People are saying

"These tacos are savory, well-seasoned, and full of flavor."

"You have to try the homemade corn tortillas; they're so fresh and soft."

"The al pastor tacos are flavorful with tender, well-seasoned meat."

Good to know

1

The taco truck closes today (Wednesday) at 10 pm.

2

Each taco costs about $3.5-4.

3

Parking validation is available.

02
Tacos El Güero image 1
Taco restaurant

Outdoor setting with ample parking invites visitors. Tacos shine with al pastor and cabeza, paired with fresh salsas. Simple space and long lines show steady demand, while aguas frescas refresh the palate.

Tacos here feature al pastor as a standout option, often paired with ojo for variety. The al pastor tacos hold up well against local standards and serve as a common favorite among the meat choices.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were the best I ever had."

"I found the food here to be good."

"I thought the Al Pastor tacos were the best."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost $3 each, making them an affordable option.

2

The restaurant now accepts credit cards, no longer cash only.

3

Expect a long wait time, especially during peak hours.

03
LOS TACOS DE MI TIERRA image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating creates a mini taco truck flea market vibe with a cozy atmosphere. Juicy al pastor with charred edges shines in tacos and burritos. Quick service and fresh ingredients make it a top spot for authentic Mexican flavors.

Juicy meat with charred edges defines the al pastor here. Tacos and burritos come loaded with mixed al pastor and carne asada, making them a solid choice.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and tastes just like homemade."

"The al pastor tacos here are so juicy with charred edges."

"The Al Pastor tacos were delicious and juicy."

Good to know

1

They open late, which is convenient for late-night cravings.

2

The food arrived within 5 minutes, making it a quick option.

3

There was no wait when I visited, ensuring immediate service.

04
Tacos La Morenita image 1
Mexican restaurant

Taco truck serves authentic Mexican tacos with a variety of meats and flavorful salsas. Al pastor tacos shine with rich taste and grilled onions on the side. No seating means a quick, casual takeout experience.

Super burritos and tacos feature flavorful al pastor with grilled onions on the side. Tacos al pastor stand out for their rich taste and good seasoning.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing."

"The Mexican food here is so flavorful, especially the tacos."

"The Al Pastor tacos are awesome and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during lunch hours, especially on weekdays.

2

Online orders incur a $2 fee and do not provide itemized receipts.

3

The menu is only in Spanish, so familiarity with it is helpful.

05
Lopez Taqueria 4 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot shines with authentic meats like lengua and tripa, plus fresh tortillas. Al pastor burrito offers rich flavor and tender meat. Quiet, clean vibe pairs well with excellent steak and varied salsas.

The al pastor burrito stands out with its rich flavor and tender meat. It pairs well with carnitas in the super burrito for a hearty meal.

People are saying

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

"The Mexican food here, especially the burritos, is super big and a great value."

"You have to try the Al Pastor burrito; it's amazing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is very clean and well-maintained.

2

Prices are generally medium, offering good value for the quality.

3

Expect a reasonable quantity of food for the price.

06
Tacos Chencho image 1
Taco restaurant

Taco truck serves flavorful al pastor with generous portions on yellow corn tortillas brushed with oil. Lively atmosphere draws evening lines. Pricing stays affordable and portions satisfy big appetites.

Flavorful and generous portions define the al pastor here. The cook often adds an extra taco, enhancing the experience.

People are saying

"You have to try the Mexican food; the tacos are delicious."

"I usually don't order asada anywhere because of the lack of flavors."

"I found the burrito here to be super nice and big."

Good to know

1

The tacos are located in the parking lot on 2920 Alum Rock during the daytime.

2

I needed to bring cash to pay at Tacos Chencho.

3

There was usually a line during their evening hours.

07
Tacos Panchito Food Truck image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican food truck serves handmade tortillas and spicy salsas in a lively spot where staff sing. Al pastor tacos are crispy yet juicy with bold flavor, and the torta is a tasty choice. Limited parking and few tables make it best for takeout.

Al pastor comes crispy yet juicy with a lot of flavor. Tacos use in-house tortillas and the torta version is very tasty.

People are saying

"The tacos here have delicious, handmade corn tortillas."

"I found the tacos to be good and affordable during late-night hours."

"The Al Pastor meat is really good and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The food truck operates until 1am on some days and until 3am on others.

2

Tacos Panchito Food Truck accepts both cash and card payments.

3

Prices are not listed anywhere, making it hard to know costs beforehand.

08
Tacos Los Tres Reyes image 1
Mexican restaurant

Juicy al pastor tacos shine with tender meat and soft tortillas. Spicy pickled carrots add a bold kick. Popular spot draws steady crowds craving flavorful Mexican-style eats perfect for late night.

Juicy and tender meat defines the al pastor tacos here. They come out delicious and stand alongside other strong options like carne asada and suadero.

People are saying

"The carne asada tacos here are amazing and never a miss."

"I had to check my food order to make sure I got everything."

"The Al Pastor tacos were juicy and tender."

Good to know

1

Expect a long line due to the truck's popularity, especially during dinner hours.

2

They offer a free carne asada taco with each order.

3

This taco truck is a great option for late-night snacks.

09
ASI Mexican Fusion Bistro image 1
Mexican restaurant

Old fast-food spot blends Mexican and Middle Eastern flavors with a warm atmosphere and large TVs for sports fans. Al pastor dishes shine with sweet pork in options like beef potatoes and chicken kabobs. Deep blue walls and good table spacing create a lively yet comfortable vibe.

Sweet pork stands out in the al pastor dishes here. Options include al pastor beef potatoes and chicken al pastor kabobs, all delivering solid flavor.

People are saying

"I loved the fusion of Mexican and Palestinian food here."

"The crispy shawarma wrap here is flavorful and filling."

"The Al Pastor tacos have pineapple and tons of flavor."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features $2 street tacos, making it a popular choice.

2

Happy hour offers discounted beer and sangria pitchers during weekdays.

3

The restaurant serves Halal food, catering to specific dietary needs.

10
Carlitos’ Tijuana Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican-themed decor and a lively salsa bar create a fun vibe. Juicy al pastor meat shines in tacos and mulitas. Freshly made tortillas add authentic flavor. DJ music keeps energy high but family-friendly.

Juicy al pastor meat stays soft inside with crispy edges. Tacos and mulitas showcase freshness and heart in every bite.

People are saying

"This Mexican food tastes like Tijuana, it's so authentic."

"The food here is authentic, fresh, and full of flavor."

"The Al Pastor tacos here are excellent."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, they offer a buy 3, get 1 free deal.

2

Parking is available in the corner store plaza.

3

The tortillas are made in house.

11
Pizza Presidente image 1
Pizza restaurant

Cozy spot with family-friendly atmosphere and clean decor offers a quiet vibe perfect for dinners or hangouts. Al pastor pizza shines with sweet pineapple topping that balances hot, cheesy flavors. Bar area with beer tower lets you enjoy games while eating.

Al pastor pizza stands out with its pineapple topping adding a sweet contrast. It comes hot, cheesy, and flavorful, making it a popular choice alongside other varieties like birria and spicy chorizo.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best in town."

"I loved the Alfredo pasta; it was wonderful."

"I tried the Al Pastor pizza and it was delicious."

Good to know

1

The parking lot is small, so arrive early to find a spot.

2

Ordering online is super easy and recommended for quicker service.

3

Expect fast service; food comes out very quickly.

12
Metro Balderas 1 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Compact spot offers authentic al pastor tacos cooked on a trompo, bursting with juicy flavor. Outdoor seating adds to the great vibes and casual atmosphere. Expect affordable prices and a wait for quality food despite limited parking.

Tacos feature rich al pastor flavor cooked on a trompo, delivering a taste that stands out. The al pastor tacos rate highly for authenticity and juiciness.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the chicken tacos."

"The salsa here is so flavorful, it transports you to Mexico."

"I've never had Al Pastor tacos this good in over 20 years."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging if it’s busy.

2

Expect a 35-minute wait for a burrito during lunch hours.

3

The menu offers more than one vegetarian option.

13
Tacos Montero Food Truck image 1

Food truck serves fresh corn tortillas and authentic street tacos with world-famous hot sauces. Al Pastor tacos shine with rich flavor, featured in burritos and quesadillas. Pleasant vibe with bilingual staff and ample parking makes visits easy and enjoyable.

Al Pastor tacos come out excellent with rich flavor. Burritos, quesadillas, and tortas also feature Al Pastor meat, paired with sides like fried plantains and agua frescas.

People are saying

"You have to try these food trucks; the tacos are the best."

"The tortillas here are handmade and freshly made."

"I found the Al Pastor tacos to be excellent and super tasty."

Good to know

1

The food truck accepts only cash.

2

They charge $4 per taco.

3

Parking is available nearby.

14
Metro Balderas Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot buzzes with lively sonidero music and a cramped, bustling space. Tacos al pastor shine, cooked on a trompo with pineapple, offering authentic street flavors. Micheladas add a refreshing touch to this genuine Bay Area favorite.

Tacos come from a trompo with pineapple on top, delivering authentic street style flavors. Al pastor tacos stand out as extremely delicious and reminiscent of Mexico.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the tacos, especially the al pastor."

"I loved the flavor of the al pastor burrito."

"I thought the Al Pastor tacos were the best I had."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost $1.60 all day on Wednesday.

2

On Fridays after 5 PM, tacos are made outside.

3

Parking is limited during peak hours on weekends.

15
Tacos A La Parrilla image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small taqueria serves flavorful tacos and burritos with al pastor pork in tacos, burritos, and nachos. Easy parking and plenty of seating make it convenient, while drinks like Micheladas and affordable beer add to the experience.

Al pastor pork appears in tacos, burritos, and nachos. The super tacos al pastor offer a larger portion. Lunch options include Nachos con Al Pastor.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and delicious."

"I loved the flavorful, satisfying burritos with fresh avocado slices."

"The Al Pastor here is saucy, flavorful, and cut into good pieces."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak hours due to limited staff.

2

The restaurant does not have public restrooms for dine-in customers.

3

Prices are generally fair, with meals under $20.

16
Metro balderas image 1
Restaurant

Spacious dining room with colorful decor offers a quiet, relaxed setting. Al pastor tacos shine with consistent quality and a great Wednesday deal. Free chips and salsa add to the authentic Mexican experience, while easy parking and better lighting boost convenience.

Al pastor tacos stand out for their consistent quality especially on Wednesdays when they cost $1.25. The tacos are widely regarded as the best in the bay, often eaten quickly and ordered again.

People are saying

"I thought the Al Pastor tacos were the best in the Bay."

"Parking available was great, with a large lot."

"I think the burrito here is arguably the best burrito around."

Good to know

1

Parking is very easy with a large lot in the front and back.

2

The prices are very affordable compared to other places.

3

There is more seating inside compared to their other two locations.

17
3 Hermanos Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers flavorful al pastor tacos and tender birria dishes. Quiet, relaxing vibe suits late mornings. Bar seating adds a casual touch.

Tacos feature al pastor with rich, savory flavors. The huevos con chorizo pairs well alongside the tacos.

People are saying

"I could not get enough of their breakfast burritos."

"The quesabirria tacos are juicy, tender, and flavorful."

"I loved the al pastor tacos here."

Good to know

1

The location is conveniently a block from the convention center.

2

The prices are affordable, with items around $14.

3

They do not skimp on meat or cheese in their dishes.

18
Taqueria Parranga image 1

Enjoy authentic Mexican street food with a lively vibe and colorful decor. Al pastor tacos stand out as some of the best in the Bay Area, offering true Puerto Vallarta flavor. Varied salsas add depth to the slightly upscale, immersive experience.

Al pastor tacos taste like those in Puerto Vallarta with authentic flavor and hold up well for takeout. They rank among the best in the Bay Area.

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be great, especially the al pastor."

"The salsas here are spicy and complex in flavor."

"I found the Al Pastor tacos tasted just like those in Puerto Vallarta."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs on Thursdays, offering discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The restaurant gets busy quickly, especially during peak hours.

3

Dining in provides access to a full selection of sauces, enhancing the meal.

19
El Halal Amigos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Lively Mexican spot offers fast service and a vibrant atmosphere with loud Spanish pop music. Pollo al pastor tacos shine on Taco Tuesday with a unique flavor rating 8 out of 10. Indoor and shaded outdoor seating welcome diners and dogs comfortably.

Pollo al pastor tacos have a unique flavor and rate around an 8 out of 10. They appear as a special deal on Taco Tuesday and come highly recommended alongside barbacoa and carne asada.

People are saying

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

"I thought the vegetarian tacos and nachos were the best I ever had."

"The pollo al pastor tacos are super flavorful and great."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, they offer $2 chicken tacos during Taco Tuesday.

2

The birria is only available on Sundays.

3

Pork and lard are not used in any dishes, adhering to halal standards.

20
Lucy's Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican grill buzzes with a lively, noisy vibe and homemade tortillas. Al pastor tacos shine with perfect seasoning and a visible spit cooking method. Cozy space offers large portions and fresh, well-seasoned flavors in a casual setting.

Crunchy texture and perfect seasoning stand out in the al pastor. It cooks on a visible spit, delivering fresh, flavorful tacos consistently.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and very tasty."

"I found the burritos here to be fresh, flavorful, and huge."

"The Al Pastor was crunchy, cooked, and seasoned to perfection."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging during peak hours, but is generally available.

2

The restaurant closes early at 9 PM every day, which may be inconvenient for late diners.

3

Expect a line during busy hours, especially on weekends.

21
La Chingada Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot shines with fresh tortillas made by hand outside. Al Pastor tacos deliver bold flavor alongside buche and carnitas. Colorful murals and romantic salsa music set a chill vibe with indoor and outdoor seating.

Al Pastor stands out as a specialty here, featured in tacos and burritos. It pairs well with other options like buche and carnitas, offering solid flavor across dishes.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the birria ramen; it's worth it."

"I found the Al Pastor to be fantastic."

Good to know

1

Take-out is the primary service option; dining in may be limited.

2

Prices range from $10 to $30 depending on the meal and portion size.

3

Vegetarian options are available on the menu.

22
Tacos El Compa Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with cozy tables creates an intimate vibe. Al pastor shines with fresh, balanced flavor that feels home-cooked. Limited seating leads to a bustling atmosphere during busy times.

Al pastor stands out with its freshness and full flavor. It avoids the usual pineapple-forward taste, offering a more balanced and home-cooked style.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here has the most delicious, tender tacos."

"Their homemade tortillas made every dish feel special."

"The Al Pastor meat smelled and tasted bad, and it was too greasy."

Good to know

1

Many customers order ahead to reduce wait times during busy hours.

2

The restaurant is primarily a take-out place rather than a sit-down restaurant.

3

Expect longer wait times during lunch hours due to high popularity.

23
Taqueria Lorena's image 1
Mexican restaurant

Old school seating meets a clean, modern order area in this laid back spot. Families and kids create a friendly vibe while high-quality meats shine in dishes. Al Pastor tacos and burritos offer rich flavor and solid prep, making them a must-try.

Al Pastor stands out with its rich flavor and solid preparation. It appears in tacos and super burritos, consistently noted as very good and a must-try.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were the best Mexican food in the area."

"The super burritos here are delicious, especially with the spicy carrots."

"I thought the Al Pastor tacos were the best I had."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, but street parking is also available.

2

You will need a key to use the restrooms, available upfront.

3

They open late until 11pm for late-night diners.

24
Cali Spartan Mexican Kitchen image 1

Mexican spot buzzes with lively Latin atmosphere and loud music. Al pastor tacos shine with signature orange sauce and fresh salsa. Covered patio with heaters and TVs adds comfort and fun.

Juicy al pastor comes in several styles including a regular small taco and a big crispy version. The tacos combine fresh salsa, avocado, and a signature orange sauce for a mix of flavor and texture.

People are saying

"I thought the crispy tacos were perfection."

"The birria tacos are tender with a rich, flavorful consomé."

"I thought the Al Pastor here was quite good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is cash only, so bring cash or use the ATM inside.

2

Parking is limited and can fill up quickly during peak hours.

3

Expect long wait times during lunch and happy hour.

25
Tacos Buenrostro - Taco Truck image 1

Mexican food truck offers bold flavors with generous portions in a relaxed setting featuring music and canopy seating. Al pastor tacos shine with crispy texture from slow-roasted meat on a spit, milder than the rich birria dishes. Convenient parking adds to the easy stop-by experience.

Slow-roasted meat on a spit gives the tacos a crispy texture from the plancha. Al pastor appears in tacos and burritos with all the fixings, though its flavor is milder compared to birria meat.

People are saying

"The birria tacos here are next level, truly some of the best I've ever had."

"These food trucks have the most delicious birria dishes I've ever had."

"The Al Pastor tacos had a quick crispy texture."

Good to know

1

Bring cash or Zelle to pay for the tacos.

2

The taco truck offers a Cinco De Mayo special: buy 2 tacos, get 1 free.

3

Parking is easy as the taco truck is located in a parking lot.

26
Tacos Los 3 Reyes image 1
Mexican restaurant

Food truck offers authentic al pastor with a large trompo visible, serving generous portions in a lively, casual setting. Tacos al pastor are exceptional and legit, while burritos can be dry. Vibrant vibe matches quality meats and varied salsas.

Al pastor trompo stands large and visible in the window. Tacos al pastor come out exceptional and legit, with carne al pastor cooked just right. Burrito al pastor tends to be dry.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos and burritos were unreal."

"The salsa here is amazing and spicy."

"I thought their Al Pastor tacos were the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The food truck has a small indoor dining area available.

2

Prices for tacos vary, with some costing more than others.

3

A 4% surcharge may apply for card payments.

27
El Bombero 408 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot serves Tijuana-style tacos with generous portions and quick service. Cozy vibe with soft music makes it easy to chat. Al pastor quality varies, but tender fajitas and flavorful meats stand out.

Tacos feature al pastor that varies greatly; some come out very greasy and cold, while others impress with better quality.

People are saying

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

"I found the Tijuana-style tacos here to be amazing."

"I found the Al Pastor here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, they offer $2 tacos.

2

Expect generous portions suitable for sharing.

3

The restaurant has plenty of parking available.

28
Don Jose Tacos image 1
Taco restaurant

Shrimp tacos shine with fresh, bold flavors in a fast, clean setting. Al pastor is dry and mild, less impressive than other dishes. Low prices make it a smart spot for quick, tasty Mexican food.

Al pastor appears on the menu alongside other traditional Mexican dishes. It has a dry texture and lacks strong flavor.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"I found their Mexican food, especially the tacos, to be the best."

"I found the al pastor here to be the best in all of San Jose."

Good to know

1

Don Jose Tacos gets busy during lunch and dinner times.

2

The menu includes traditional Mexican dishes like al pastor.

3

Prices at Don Jose Tacos are low.

29
Tacos Autlense image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, intimate space with four chairs per table offers a warm, casual vibe. Authentic Mexican dishes shine with super tacos and burritos featuring rice, cilantro, and onions. Late hours and cash-only convenience with an on-site ATM make it easy to visit.

Super tacos and burritos feature authentic flavor with rice, cilantro, and onions. Some find the meat slicing and preparation less traditional and the taste can be mediocre.

People are saying

"This Mexican food's burritos are so large and satisfying."

"I found the food to be authentic and really good."

"The Al Pastor here is huge and hits the spot."

Good to know

1

Tacos Autlense is cash only, but there is an ATM available on-site.

2

The restaurant is open late, making it a good option for night owls.

3

You can order online through Doordash for convenience.

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