Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to San Jose

Carne asada spots

Made for those who judge a kitchen entirely by the quality of their carne asada and won't accept anything less than perfectly charred meat.

Based on 788 Opinions
+785
User
User
User
Updated June 2026
01
Carlitos’ Tijuana Grill image 1
Carlitos’ Tijuana Grill image 2
Carlitos’ Tijuana Grill image 3
View all
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.

Food comes out hot and fast with a focus on authentic Mexican flavors. The family-run kitchen shows clear care for quality and guests.

Meat comes tender and juicy, cooked just right. Portions are generous, making it worth the price in tacos, burritos, and mulitas with melted cheese.

People are saying

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

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

"The Carne Asada is so tender and juicy."

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
El Burrito Loco Taco Truck image 1

Taco truck offers authentic Mexican tacos with bold flavors and generous portions. Atmosphere feels lively and casual, attracting those seeking affordable, satisfying meals beyond typical fast food. Popular items include carnitas tacos and super burritos known for rich taste and quality.

Food comes out fresh and flavorful with consistent quality. Service is quick, making it a reliable spot for delicious Mexican dishes.

Carne Asada burritos stand out here, especially the burrito bowl version. The meat is a key focus in their offerings.

People are saying

"I found the tacos to be really tasty and flavorful."

"The food here is really tasty and flavorful."

"I really enjoyed their carne asada burrito bowl."

Good to know

1

Birria tacos are available only on Thursdays and Fridays.

2

Prices at El Burrito Loco Taco Truck are affordable.

3

Hot sauce is recommended on the side.

03
TACOS Y BIRRIA EL CHORE image 1
Mexican restaurant

Food truck offers huge portions and varied menu with authentic Mexican tacos and excellent salsas. Atmosphere is casual with minimal seating, often busy with long waits. Location near a park adds convenience for quick stops.

Food stands out for its consistently delicious quality and exceptional Mexican dishes. The menu includes carne asada tacos and special signature items, paired with fresh aguas frescas.

Carne asada tacos stand out with rich, savory flavors. Signature dishes like carne asada fries and the Anaconda burrito showcase the meat in creative ways.

People are saying

"I loved their keto tacos and bacon-wrapped burritos."

"The food here is delicious and the flavor always impresses."

"I thought the carne asada tacos were the best Mexican food I'd tried."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times, especially during peak hours.

2

Bring cash for a slight discount on your order.

3

Payment via Venmo is accepted, but check if it's available.

04
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.

Mexican food here is authentic and consistently delicious. The dishes are very tasty and often ordered to go.

Carne asada here is high quality and free of gristle, making it easy to enjoy. It appears in super tacos, burritos, and sopes, all with great flavor and no excess fat.

People are saying

"The lengua tacos here are tender and flavorful."

"The food here is amazing, especially the carne asada."

"The carne asada here is amazing, with no gristle."

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.

05
LOS TACOS DE MI TIERRA image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating creates a mini taco truck flea market vibe with a vibrant and cozy atmosphere. The place draws a crowd looking for authentic Mexican tacos served quickly and packed with fresh ingredients. Covered seating offers comfort while enjoying a variety of flavorful options.

Authentic, flavorful Mexican food arrives quickly, often within 5 minutes. Portions are generous and prices reasonable, with dishes like tacos and tortas tasting fresh and homemade.

Carne asada here packs a lot of flavor in the tacos and burritos. The tacos come with options like no onions, and the burritos are loaded with meat, often mixed with al pastor.

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 Carne Asada tacos are so flavorful."

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.

06
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.

Food offers fresh, flavorful Mexican dishes with a solid selection of tacos and standout items like the Torta Cubana. Meals come with good drinks and deliver excellent quality worth the price.

Carne asada here is flavorful and never dry, showing a clear home-cooked flavor. The carne asada torta is large and tastes like a hamburger, while tacos and burritos highlight the meat's distinct taste.

People are saying

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

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"I loved the Carne Asada; it was flavorful and not dry."

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.

07
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.

Food here is authentic Mexican with generous portions and always freshly made. Dishes offer rich flavor and good value.

Carne asada shines in the fries loaded with sauces that stand out for their flavor. The regular taco plate pairs carne asada with beans, rice, lettuce, and pico for a classic combo.

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."

"I've never had Carne Asada fries this good; I wanted another batch."

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.

08
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.

Food features fresh ingredients and consistent quality with a focus on tacos and quesabirrias. Mexican dishes come with fair prices and strong local flavor.

Grilled just right, the carne asada is tender and juicy. It appears in tacos, fries, and burritos, standing out from the usual dry or overcooked versions elsewhere.

People are saying

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

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

"The carne asada tacos here are delicious."

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.

09
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.

Food here is authentic and fresh, with a focus on quality Mexican dishes. Service includes friendly, helpful staff who explain menu options clearly.

Carne asada uses USDA-choice steak cuts grilled over real mesquite charcoal for a smoky flavor. Carne asada fries feature curly fries that keep toppings crispy and elevated.

People are saying

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

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"Their Carne Asada is hard to beat, with a smoky flavor."

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.

10
Maza Mexican Restaurant image 1
Seafood restaurant

Entrance through an alley leads to a beautiful outdoor garden with covered seating and heaters. Atmosphere feels relaxing and aesthetic with music enhancing the vibe. Space welcomes dogs and suits parties well.

Food here is consistently delicious with a variety of tasty options. Drinks complement the meals well, making the overall dining experience satisfying.

Carne asada comes tender and well seasoned, making it a standout choice. Tacos and quesadillas filled with this meat deliver rich flavor.

People are saying

"The seafood here is super fresh and flavorful."

"The food here is flavorful and awesome."

"I loved the carne asada tacos; they were filled with flavor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 2 PM and offers discounted drinks.

2

Taco Tuesday features $1 tacos all day with any drink purchase.

3

Parking can be challenging; arrive early to find a spot.

11
La Costenita ( Food Truck) image 1

Food truck offers authentic Son Oaxaqueño cuisine with homemade tortillas and flavorful dishes like mole and cactus tacos. Atmosphere feels industrial and unpolished, but food quality and attention to detail stand out. Prices stay affordable while serving generous portions.

Tacos and classic comfort foods like chilaquiles come with fresh-made aguas such as watermelon and cucumber melon. The food is tasty, filling, and addictive with quick and kind service.

Carne asada tacos come out perfect with well-seasoned meat and fresh toppings. The carne asada super burrito lacks the same appeal and feels less enjoyable compared to the tacos.

People are saying

"You have to try their burritos; they're packed with meat."

"The food from these food trucks is so tasty and filling."

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

Good to know

1

La Costenita offers quality ingredients at affordable prices.

2

They have catered multiple school events with positive feedback.

3

La Costenita is a family-owned food truck with authentic cuisine.

12
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.

Mexican dishes here deliver excellent quality and fall off the bones Costillios. The food offers a mouthwatering halal twist with consistently outstanding taste and service.

Carne asada shines as the star of the menu, delivering rich flavor in burritos, tacos, and nachos. The meat pairs perfectly with other ingredients, making dishes like the burrito supreme and loaded nachos stand out.

People are saying

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

"The food here is flavorful and incredibly filling."

"I thought this was finally an authentic halal Mexican spot."

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.

13
Ricos Tacos El Guero image 1

Outdoor seating features community-style tables that are clean and comfortable. The atmosphere is relaxed with moderate activity during early afternoon hours. Known for flavorful street tacos and homemade spicy sauces, it draws those seeking authentic, well-seasoned Mexican fare.

Food here is very fresh and delicious. Prices stay great for the quality offered.

Carne asada comes seasoned well and appears in both tacos and burritos. Tacos include carne asada alongside other meats like tripas and el pastor.

People are saying

"The burritos here are flipping delicious, especially with the orange sauce."

"I had a Carne Asada burrito that was flipping delicious."

"The food here, especially the burritos and tacos, is incredibly flavorful."

Good to know

1

The place is usually not busy around 1 pm on Mondays.

2

They offer an extra free taco with beans with certain orders.

3

Lengua is not always available on the menu.

14
Super Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican fast food spot with authentic tacos and savory tortillas draws a packed crowd despite worn seating and tables. Generous portions highlight carne asada and buche tacos, creating a lively, casual atmosphere. Cash and card payments are accepted, with some fees for electronic transactions.

Offers authentic Mexican fast food with fresh cooked ingredients at low prices. Serves generous portions like the super taco with consistently fast service.

Carne asada comes well seasoned and not dry, cooked fresh right in front of you. Options include a torta or burrito, both delivering a tasty and familiar flavor.

People are saying

"You have to try their Super Burrito; it's filling and affordable."

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

"I found the food here to be really good."

Good to know

1

Super Taqueria now accepts credit cards and ATM cards.

2

The portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

3

Super Taqueria has accessible facilities for people with different abilities.

15
El Grullo Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a clean, airy space and pleasant atmosphere offers bilingual staff and late hours. Tables always have ample napkins, and prices stay around reasonable mid-range. The vibe suits those seeking authentic flavors in a tidy, welcoming setting.

Food here is consistently delicious and excellent. The menu offers amazing dishes in a small, cozy setting.

Carne asada appears in several dishes like super quesadillas and burritos. The quesadilla stands out as delicious, but the carne asada burrito often has very little meat.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and made with clean ingredients."

"This burrito's fresh ingredients are always generous and perfectly balanced."

"I found the carne asada burritos and quesadillas to be good."

Good to know

1

Prices for large burritos are around $15 each.

2

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

3

The staff speaks both English and Spanish, aiding communication.

16
Hugo's Tacos Food Truck image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican food truck with homemade tortillas and generous portions draws a steady crowd. The atmosphere is lively and busy, reflecting its reputation for authentic carne asada tacos and large, flavorful burritos. Customers expect fresh, richly filled dishes with bold flavors, especially in tacos and quesabirrias.

Carne asada tacos come with cilantro, grilled jalapeños, and authentic Mexican salsa. Burritos serve enough for multiple meals. Food tastes like home-cooked meals and stays consistently on point.

Burritos come loaded with carne asada, rice, and beans, making them large and filling. Tacos feature cilantro, grilled jalapeños, and authentic Mexican salsa alongside the carne asada.

People are saying

"I've never had better carne asada tacos; they tasted so fresh."

"I've never had better authentic Mexican salsa."

"I've never had carne asada tacos this delicious."

Good to know

1

The burritos provide enough food for at least four meals.

2

Everything at the taco truck is homemade.

3

The portions at the taco truck are huge.

17
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.

Food features solid salsa and fresh hot tacos with excellent flavor and good prices. Service is quick and the food stays good late into the night.

Carne asada tacos come fresh and flavorful, with a taste that recalls authentic Mexican tacos. The meat is roasted on a rotating spit alongside al pastor, but it contains an excessive amount of fat.

People are saying

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

"The tacos here are fresh, flavorful, and the best I've ever had."

"I found the carne asada tacos here to be amazing and fresh."

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.

18
Agua Salada (Contemporary Mexican Seafood) image 1

Outdoor setting shaded by tents creates a casual atmosphere reminiscent of Mexican beachside spots. Live Banda and corridos music energizes the space alongside a top-tier bar serving drinks like Micheladas and margaritas. Beautiful decor and a small, intimate layout enhance the authentic vibe.

Food here stands out for its amazing quality and exceptional taste. Consistent delicious flavors make every dish impressive.

Grilled to perfection, the carne asada stands out with its rich flavor. Some find it chewy and tough to cut, needing to be pulled apart. The combination with Nopalitos is a popular choice.

People are saying

"The seafood here is delicious, especially the shrimp tacos."

"I found the food here to be delicious and really good."

"The Carne Asada was grilled and cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is cash-only, which was not communicated prior to ordering.

2

There is ample parking available, including shaded options.

3

Portions are generous and larger than expected for seafood.

19
Cali Spartan Mexican Kitchen image 1

Spacious interior with floor-to-ceiling windows creates a pleasant atmosphere that feels inviting and lively. A self-serve condiments bar adds convenience and complements the food experience. Music tends to be loud, making conversation challenging during busy times.

Food features authentic Mexican flavors with excellent quality and generous portions. Dipping food in a soup bath adds a unique flavor boost.

Generous portions of succulent carne asada appear in burritos and crispy tacos. The carne asada is solid, paired well with other standout items like lingua and super burritos.

People are saying

"I thought the quesadillas were the best in town."

"The salsas here are flavorful and great."

"I found the food here to be really, really good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant accepts cash only, so plan accordingly.

2

Parking is ample and easy to find in the strip mall.

3

The restaurant closes later than most places, making it a good late-night option.

20
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.

Fusion of Mexican and Middle Eastern cuisine creates bold, fresh flavors with perfectly balanced seasoning. Sopecitas with carne asada, al pastor, and birria stand out as flavorful and comforting dishes.

Carne asada stands out with great flavor and pairs well with sopecitas. It appears as both a plate and kebabs, consistently noted as really good and excellent.

People are saying

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

"The food here is delicious and served fairly quickly."

"The carne asada here is tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned."

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.

21
Taqueria Eduardo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Huge dining area with several TVs showing soccer games creates a lively, casual vibe. The place stays busy, attracting people who appreciate authentic Mexican flavors and unlimited salsas. Seating is ample, making it suitable for quick bites or relaxed meals.

Food offers authentic Mexican flavors with generous portions and a satisfying amount of meat. Dishes come out reasonably priced and full of actual flavor.

Carne asada comes in a small burrito with about 2oz of meat and plenty of Pico de gallo. The super burrito version is popular and often ordered without sour cream. Super nachos with carne asada include guacamole and diluted sour cream but lack refried beans.

People are saying

"I thought the super burrito was the best item on the menu."

"I believe the carnitas here are the best I've ever eaten."

"I found the Carne Asada super burrito to be extremely good."

Good to know

1

Daily specials are available from Monday to Friday between 11am and 3pm.

2

Parking is available in the back of the restaurant.

3

The total cost for two burritos and chips is around $32.

22
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.

Food here is consistently fresh and flavorful with a good level of spice that hits the mark. Dishes look better than photos and deliver authentic, delicious tastes every time.

Carne asada burritos stand out with flavorful meat wrapped in soft tortillas. Carne asada tacos and carnitas also deliver solid, well-seasoned options. Chips and guacamole often accompany the meal.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and delicious."

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

"The Carne Asada is so flavorful and satisfying."

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.

23
Tacos Los 3 Reyes image 1
Taco restaurant

Large indoor space with huge garage doors opens to the outside, creating an airy setting. Lively Mexican music and chatter fill the room, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among regulars. A self-serve salsa bar adds to the authentic, flavorful experience.

Food features authentic Mexican cuisine with delicious, reasonably priced tacos. A dining area with tables sits across from the truck, supported by plentiful parking and strong local patronage.

Carne asada stands out with its savory flavor and pairs well with fresh limes and sauce. Options include tacos and burritos, both offering great value and a satisfying taste.

People are saying

"These tacos are bursting with bold, fresh flavor."

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

"The Carne Asada tacos here are bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

After 5 pm, they only serve tacos.

2

Parking at Tacos Los 3 Reyes is limited and hard to find.

3

Visitors should be prepared to spend an extra 20 minutes beyond the usual time to get their food.

24
Taqueria Lorena's image 1
Mexican restaurant

Old school seating contrasts with a clean, modern order area in this laid back Mexican spot. Families and kids create a friendly neighborhood vibe, while high-quality meats define the food. Limited decor and later hours add to its straightforward, practical feel.

Mexican food here is consistently good with fast, friendly service. Quesadillas and tostadas stand out as flavorful options that make people want to come back.

Carne asada comes in tacos, fries, and mini tacos, all with a solid flavor. It pairs well with hot sauce and appears in dishes like super nachos and burritos.

People are saying

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

"I thought the tacos here were the best Mexican food I'd found."

"I thought the carne asada was quite good."

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.

25
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.

Tacos here offer super delicious tacos with standout green and orange salsa options. Prices feel fair for the large portions, making it a solid spot for late night Mexican food.

Carne asada stands out with bold flavor and appears in tacos and quesadillas. The quesadillas come in massive sizes and include a super option with extra meat.

People are saying

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

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

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

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.

26
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.

Mexican food here is authentic and well spiced, with juicy meats and chicken. Prices are fair and the dishes are consistently delicious.

Carne asada tacos come at a reasonable price and have a great flavor. The Super Carne Asada option tastes overly ricey and is not recommended.

People are saying

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

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

"I thought the Carne Asada tacos were the best I've ever had."

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.

27
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.

Tacos here feature handmade tortillas and bold, flavorful fillings like carne asada and chicharrón. The cactus tacos offer a vegan option with fresh, tasty ingredients and quick service.

Juicy carne asada shines in the Mulita and Chicken Mulita, offering rich flavor. Some items like the super burrito show less seasoning, making the taste milder.

People are saying

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

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"I considered Montero's Carne Asada to have the best flavor and size."

Good to know

1

The food truck accepts only cash.

2

They charge $4 per taco.

3

Parking is available nearby.

Discover more

San Jose, California

Area guide
Loading Map...