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Top picks in San Jose

Al pastor and salsa

The combination of al pastor and a sharp, spicy salsa is what the palate is demanding.

Based on 801 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Carlitos’ Tijuana Grill image 1
Carlitos’ Tijuana Grill image 2
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Mexican restaurant

Mexican-themed decor and a salsa bar with many options create a lively and inviting atmosphere. Music, including DJ sets, adds energy while maintaining a family-friendly vibe. Freshly made tortillas and authentic Baja-style tacos stand out as key features.

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

A salsa bar offers many options with a focus on spicy salsas. The salsa tastes very fresh and pairs well with light, flavorful chips.

People are saying

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

"The salsa here is so fresh and perfectly balanced."

"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.

02
Tacos Panchito Food Truck image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican food truck offers handmade tortillas and spicy salsas with a busy, lively vibe where staff sing along to music. Customers often face limited parking and few tables, making it mainly a takeout spot. Prices vary, with some items considered generously sized but on the higher side.

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

Salsas here bring authentic south of the border flavors with a good mix of spicy green sauce and orange salsa. The salsa bar offers solid options including avocado salsa and chiles toreados.

People are saying

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

"The carne options here are perfect, especially the suadero."

"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.

03
Tacos Chencho image 1
Taco restaurant

Colorful decor creates a lively Mexican street vibe with outdoor seating and a self-serve salsa bar featuring pickled vegetables. Limited seating and cash-only payment with Zelle option shape the experience, attracting those seeking varied meat tacos in a casual, vibrant setting.

Al pastor is roasted on a rotating spit with pineapple and grilled onions served on the side. It appears in tacos and burritos and is a popular, well-enjoyed option alongside carne asada.

A self-serve salsa bar offers a variety of salsas and pickled vegetables. The green salsa is citrusy and mild, while the orange salsa adds a wonderful touch to dishes.

People are saying

"These tacos are the best I've ever had."

"The salsa here is solid and tastes amazing."

"I thought the al pastor tacos were the best I had."

Good to know

1

Tacos Chencho accepts only cash payments and Zelle.

2

The truck closes at 11 pm on Sundays.

3

Prices for tacos start at $2.72 each.

04
Las Delicias De Toñita Taco Truck image 1

Tented outdoor seating with long communal tables creates a casual, relaxed vibe under a parking lot mural. The taco truck serves authentic Mexican flavors with handmade tortillas grilled fresh. The space fits about 18-20 people and stays clean and orderly despite its simplicity.

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

Salsas come fresh and homemade with lots of choices including grilled serranos. They range from refreshing to spicy, complementing meats like al pastor, asada, and pollo well.

People are saying

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

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

"The homemade tortillas are so good, I could eat them on their own."

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.

05
Tacos Los Tres Reyes image 1
Mexican restaurant

Taco truck offers juicy al pastor, soft warm tortillas, and spicy pickled carrots with each order. Lines form due to popular, flavorful tacos that attract a steady crowd. The vibe suits late night munchies with simple but highly recommended Mexican-style tacos.

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.

Orange salsa stands out with its bright flavor, while the red salsa delivers a perfect heat that hits just right. Green salsa and grilled onions add extra flavor layers to the tacos, though there is no salsa bar here.

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.

06
Tacos El Güero image 1
Taco restaurant

Outdoor setting with ample parking creates a welcoming vibe. Simple, clean space with limited tables and often a long line reflects steady demand. Tacos feature soft corn tortillas and a variety of flavorful meats, especially al pastor and cabeza, served with tasty salsas and aguas frescas.

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.

Green salsa stands out with onions and cilantro that complement it well. Salsas are generally tasty and mildly spicy, making them approachable for most people.

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.

07
Tacos Montero Food Truck image 1

Food truck offers freshly made corn tortillas and authentic street tacos with world-famous hot sauces. Atmosphere is pleasant with bilingual staff and ample parking. Prices have risen, making tacos more of a treat than an everyday meal.

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.

Salsas come in none spicy salsa verde and an orange sauce with a nice kick that is not overwhelming. Both the orange and green salsas taste amazing and offer a balance of flavor and spice.

People are saying

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

"The salsa here is delicious and has a nice kick."

"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.

08
Tacos La Morenita image 1
Mexican restaurant

Taco truck offers authentic Mexican tacos with a variety of meat options and flavorful salsas. No seating is available, creating a quick, casual atmosphere focused on takeout. The menu appears in Spanish, reflecting a genuine Mexican culinary 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.

Salsas here stand out for their flavor variety and quality. Chips do not come automatically, and salsa portions require asking for more to accompany tacos.

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.

09
Metro Balderas 1 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Compact Mexican restaurant offers outdoor seating and a nice atmosphere with great vibes. Known for affordable, delicious tacos and burritos, it attracts those willing to wait for quality food despite limited parking and seating.

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.

Green and red salsas come homemade and tasty with orders. Chips arrive with delicious salsa that pairs well with tacos. The green salsa stands out as exceptionally good.

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.

10
Metro Balderas Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic tacos and lively street food atmosphere with sonidero music that can be loud and filled with talking. Space feels small and cramped but attracts crowds eager for genuine flavors. Micheladas and tacos al pastor stand out as Bay Area favorites.

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.

Salsas here have a hot kick and a tomato-rich chip salsa that tastes like red tomato sauce. Tomatillo salsa is not served anymore, affecting some dishes like tongue tacos.

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.

11
Taqueria Parranga image 1

Restaurant offers authentic Mexican street food with traditional music and colorful decor that creates a lively, immersive atmosphere. The space fills quickly, attracting those seeking varied salsas and genuine flavors in a slightly upscale setting.

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.

Salsas here offer a variety of flavors with authentic spice and complex taste profiles. Options like pineapple apple salsa stand out alongside fresh, handmade tortillas.

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.

12
Tacos A La Parrilla image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, dim taqueria with easy parking and plenty of seating offers a Tex-Mex style menu featuring flavorful tacos and burritos. Latino clientele often pick up takeout in a space with limited ventilation and no public restroom. Drinks include Micheladas and affordable beer options.

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.

Green sauce salsa stands out with its fresh lime flavor and pairs well with tacos loaded with carne and avocado. Salsa portions are small but come on the side to complement the meal.

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.

13
Lopez Taqueria 4 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic meats like lengua, tripa, and buche alongside freshly made tortillas and super-sized burritos. Atmosphere stays quiet and clean despite occasional loud music. Food quality stands out with excellent steak and a variety of salsas, while prices remain moderate.

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.

Salsa comes fresh and not too spicy with a perfect salt balance. Staff often bring extra salsa generously, and chips arrive warm alongside it.

People are saying

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

"Their salsa was fresh, salted perfectly, and not too spicy."

"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.

14
ASI Mexican Fusion Bistro image 1
Mexican restaurant

Old fast-food building hosts a Mexican and Middle Eastern fusion with a warm, inviting atmosphere and multiple large TVs showing sports. The space features deep blue walls and a lively yet comfortable vibe with good table spacing. Music and muted TVs add to the relaxed environment.

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.

Complimentary chips come with tamarillo salsa and hummus. Pita and tortilla chips pair well with these flavorful dips.

People are saying

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

"The chips with hummus and salsa were really good."

"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.

15
Lucy's Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican grill with homemade tortillas and spicy salsa creates a lively, noisy atmosphere. Limited seating with just a few small tables makes it cozy but busy. Known for large portions and well-seasoned al pastor tacos, it offers a casual, fast-food vibe with fresh ingredients.

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

Salsas here are fresh and spicy, with options like a hot orange-colored salsa and a flavorful avocado salsa. Chips come with salsa, and staff often offer fresh chips and salsa with orders.

People are saying

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

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

"The salsa here is delicious and spicy."

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.

16
Araujo's Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Large, modern space with an open kitchen and spacious seating creates a clean, welcoming atmosphere. Big-screen TVs and a generous salsa bar cater to sports fans and spice lovers. A dog-friendly patio adds to the relaxed vibe.

Tacos with Al Pastor come greasy and could use some improvement. Burritos and super tacos with carne asada or al pastor offer solid options alongside street tacos.

A salsa bar offers many choices including a spicy habanero salsa that sneaks up on you. The avocado salsa stands out as a signature, creamy and flavorful.

People are saying

"The salsa bar had a great selection, especially the spicy habanero."

"You can really taste the difference because the tortillas are handmade fresh."

"The Al Pastor tacos here are pretty damn good."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging at this location, but free garage parking is available nearby.

2

A 20% service charge is automatically added to all dining bills.

3

The restaurant opens early at 9 am, which is convenient for breakfast.

17
Tacos El Compa Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, narrow space with about six tables creates a cozy, intimate setting. Atmosphere feels like an authentic hole-in-the-wall taqueria with a quiet, unassuming vibe. Seating is limited and close together, often leading to a crowded, bustling feel 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.

Red salsa stands out with its best flavor and noticeable spiciness. Roasted and green salsas rank among the better ones available, making them great for pairing with taquitos.

People are saying

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

"The tacos here are flavorful and authentic."

"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.

18
Tacos Los 3 Reyes image 1
Mexican restaurant

Food truck setup with large trompo for al pastor and small dining area creates a casual, lively atmosphere filled with delicious aromas. Tacos feature varied pricing and generous portions, attracting those seeking authentic Mexican flavors. The vibe is informal yet vibrant, with a focus on quality and variety in meats and 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.

Salsa here is often very spicy and adds a strong kick. The green salsa stands out for boosting taco flavors, especially with simpler fillings like carnitas.

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.

19
Lopez Taqueria 2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating on a sunny patio creates a casual, breezy atmosphere with a welcoming, family-like vibe. Indoor space feels small and sparse, while the quiet street adds to the calm setting. The place offers a wide variety of authentic Mexican food in a clean environment.

Al pastor shows up as a solid choice alongside carne asada and shrimp. Tacos highlight balanced seasoning and pair well with other items like tostadas and burritos.

Salsas come with a noticeable charred veggie flavor and fresh taste. The green salsa is mild, while the red salsa is slightly spicier but not overwhelming. Free chips and salsa accompany some dishes.

People are saying

"The lengua tacos here are tender and flavorful."

"The green and red salsas here are a must-try."

"I tried the al pastor taco and it was a close second."

Good to know

1

Ordering and paying happens before sitting down; no reservations needed.

2

The restaurant offers all-day breakfast options.

3

There is plenty of seating available both inside and outside.

20
La Chingada Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with colorful murals and both indoor and outdoor seating creates a chill atmosphere with romantic salsa and ranchero music. Fresh tortillas are made by hand outside, adding to the authentic vibe. A salsa bar and fresh chips complement the food offerings.

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.

Freshly made salsas come in several varieties including a spicy habanero sauce and a classic red chunky salsa. Free chips accompany the salsas, which pair well with the food, and a roasted salsa appears on weekends.

People are saying

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

"The salsa bar here is fresh and flavorful."

"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.

21
Tacos Buenrostro - Taco Truck image 1

Mexican food truck with canopy seating creates a relaxing atmosphere with music at a comfortable volume. Tacos and birria dishes offer bold flavors and generous portions, often compared favorably to local brick-and-mortar spots. Parking is convenient in the adjacent lot, making it easy to stop by.

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.

Salsas come with free chips and include two portions, one being an orange sauce that stands out as better than La Victoria's. Plates get a nice touch with a radish garnish.

People are saying

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

"I'd probably only get the quesabirria if I came back."

"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.

22
3 Hermanos Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant inside a market setting with a quiet, relaxing vibe around late morning. Seating includes a bar area in the back. Food quality varies, with some dishes like birria and quesabirria tacos noted as flavorful and tender.

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

Green creamy salsa stands out with its rich texture and flavor. Tomato-based salsa resembles a tomato puree or ketchup style, offering a familiar taste.

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.

23
Tacos Autlense image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small spaces with four chairs per table create an intimate setting. The atmosphere is warm and casual, with an open door and no air conditioning. Late hours attract those seeking authentic Mexican dishes and cash-only convenience with an on-site ATM.

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.

Salsa roja stands out as very spicy and flavorful, while the table salsa tastes somewhat ketchupy and just okay. Chips and salsa come quickly but are nothing special.

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.

24
Cali Spartan Mexican Kitchen image 1

Mexican restaurant with lively Latin atmosphere and loud music creates a vibrant, college-like vibe. Indoor and outdoor seating includes a covered patio with heaters and TVs showing soccer and Jeopardy. A large salsa and condiment bar complements the authentic, tasty food offerings.

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.

A large salsa and topping bar offers plenty of choices. The orange salsa stands out with a great taste and unique flavor. The mango salsa is also super tasty and pairs well with tacos on a crunchy shell loaded with cheese, salsa, and avocado.

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
El Bombero 408 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers Tijuana-style tacos with generous portions and quick service. Atmosphere feels cozy and united with soft background music that supports conversation. Guests often enjoy tender fajitas and a variety of flavorful meat options.

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

Chips come with hot and very tasty salsa even for to-go orders. The chips and salsa cost about $5.20 and are not free, though this is not always announced upfront.

People are saying

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

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

"The tacos here are delicious with their salsa."

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.

26
El Halal Amigos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Lively Mexican restaurant with fast service and extremely loud Spanish pop music creates a vibrant, energetic atmosphere. Indoor and shaded outdoor seating accommodate diners comfortably, including dogs. Decor and open kitchen add to a vibrant, authentic vibe that feels like stepping into Mexico.

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.

Generous portions of meat come with tacos paired with a pineapple salsa that adds a fresh twist. The chips come with a revelatory salsa and a red salsa that adds the perfect kick.

People are saying

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

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

"The barbacoa here is excellent."

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.

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