18 Best Tacos in San Diego, CA

San Diego’s vibrant taco scene is a tapestry of flavors and traditions. From bustling food trucks serving up authentic street-style tacos to cozy taquerias offering innovative fusion creations, San Diego’s taco spots are a testament to the city’s love affair with this beloved dish. This guide highlights the top taco spots in the city.

In a nation crazy about tacos, every city boasts its champions. San Diego, a melting pot of flavors and traditions, is a prime example. From humble food trucks to bustling taquerías, the search for the city’s best tacos is also a journey through its neighborhoods and a glimpse into the soul of its vibrant community. Join us as we explore the delicious tortillas and perfectly seasoned meats of San Diego’s top taco spots

El Charro Taco Shop

9/10 (216 reviews)

| Directions | +1 619-224-0774

Authentic flavorsGenerous portionsFriendly owners

Walking into El Charro Taco Shop, you are immediately struck by the welcoming atmosphere and the delicious aroma emanating from the kitchen. The portions are generous and the flavors are authentic, making it a hidden gem in San Diego. The food is made with care and the owners are sweet and friendly, adding a personal touch to the dining experience. Whether you’re craving tacos, burritos, or nachos, El Charro Taco Shop has something for everyone. The small family-run business truly stands out in the San Diego culinary scene, offering a taste of Mexico with every dish.

Humberto’s Taco Shop

9/10 (1369 reviews)

| Directions | +1 619-266-8433

Flavorful carne asada friesBest green sauceLate-night food spot

Nestled in San Diego, Humberto’s Taco Shop has been a go-to destination for Mexican food enthusiasts for decades. Known for their flavorful carne asada fries and mouth-watering burritos, this spot is the perfect place to satisfy those late-night cravings. Offering great service and a welcoming atmosphere, Humberto’s Taco Shop is a popular spot for both locals and visitors alike. The green sauce is a fan favorite, with customers proclaiming it to be the best they’ve ever had. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite on the go or looking for a place to relax and enjoy your meal, this restaurant ticks all the boxes for a memorable dining experience.

City Tacos

9.2/10 (1950 reviews)

Website | Directions | +1 619-296-2303

Unique, Flavorful, Vegan-friendly

City Tacos in San Diego is a gem of a taco spot that is a must-visit for any taco lover. With a variety of unique and flavorful options, such as the City Zucchini Taco and the Guacamole & Chips, the menu caters to all tastes, including vegan and vegetarian options. The efficient service ensures that your order arrives promptly, allowing you to indulge in the delicious fare. The friendly staff adds to the overall pleasant dining experience, making City Tacos a top choice for taco enthusiasts in San Diego.

Tacos El Gordo

9/10 (1524 reviews)

Website | Directions | +1 619-955-8220

Authentic flavorsSeparate linesQuaint seating areas

Tacos El Gordo in Downtown San Diego offers a taste of authentic Mexican tacos that stand out among the many dining options in the area. With separate lines for pork and beef options, customers can experience the unique flavors of each type of meat. The steak beef and Cactus tacos are exceptional, with the fries being the only disappointing item on the menu. The limited seating may pose a challenge during peak hours, but the quality of the food makes it worth the wait.

The Taco Stand

9.2/10 (1173 reviews)

Website | Directions | +1 619-795-8797

Tasty tacosFresh tortillasQuick service

This taco shop in North Park offers tasty tacos served on hand-made tortillas. The Sonora taco with steak, cheese, beans, and pico de gallo is highly recommended. The busy vibe adds to the experience, with the three skilled cooks efficiently handling orders in the small kitchen. The shrimp and breaded fish tacos are standout items, with the freshness of the tortillas really elevating the overall taste experience.

The Taco Stand

9.2/10 (1766 reviews)

Website | Directions | +1 619-546-0570

Flavorful steakVariety of salsasFreshly-made food

The Taco Stand downtown offered a mixed experience. The food was tasty, with flavorful and juicy steak in the Sonora taco, and a variety of salsas available at the salsa bar. However, we encountered issues with cleanliness, as there were dirty tables and employees seemed indifferent to the situation. The cold and breezy atmosphere inside from the propped open front door didn’t help either. On a positive note, the food arrived quicker than expected, making it a decent choice for those craving flavorful tacos and burritos.

La Playa Taco Shop

9.2/10 (1172 reviews)

| Directions | +1 858-488-7405

Delicious cuisineFresh ingredientsFriendly service

La Playa Taco Shop, located in California, offers authentic Mexican cuisine with a California Coast flair. The Al Pastor taco and cheese enchilada are both delicious and surprisingly fresh. The beans and rice are a cut above the rest, making for a satisfying meal. The friendly service and great atmosphere add to the overall experience, making La Playa Taco Shop a must-visit for anyone craving tasty Mexican fare. Customers also appreciate the generous portions and quick service, ensuring a pleasant dining experience every time. The Machaca burrito and super burritos come highly recommended, and the fish tacos are said to be some of the best around. Stop by and enjoy the tasty food and welcoming ambiance at La Playa Taco Shop.

Oscars Mexican Seafood

9.2/10 (1852 reviews)

Website | Directions | +1 858-488-6392

Surf & Turf TacoBluefin Tuna CevicheDiverse Sauces

Oscar’s Mexican Seafood is a hidden gem in the San Diego area, serving up some of the best fresh seafood tacos around. The Surf & Turf Taco is a standout, blending skirt steak and shrimp with cheese and avocado for a symphony of flavors. The Bluefin Tuna Ceviche is a must-try for any seafood lover, bursting with freshness. From the crispy battered fish and shrimp tacos to the flavorful grilled octopus, each taco is a treat made with high-quality ingredients and care. The diverse sauces only enhance the experience, making each taco a personalized feast worth savoring. If you find yourself near La Jolla, a visit to Oscar’s is a culinary must.

La Vecindad Neighborhood TACOS

9.4/10 (1034 reviews)

| Directions | +1 619-501-2885

Diverse menuColorful atmosphereFriendly service

La Vecindad Neighborhood TACOS offers a diverse menu of Baja style and classic meats served in large, flavorful tacos. The prices are reasonable for the portion size, and the variety of food options is ample. The atmosphere is colorful and fun, with outdoor seating available. The service is friendly, and the music selection adds to the festive vibe of the restaurant. While some dishes may be hit or miss, overall the food is enjoyable and the regional tacos are a unique find in San Diego.

Lola 55 Tacos & Cocktails

9.2/10 (1078 reviews)

Website | Directions | +1 619-542-9155

Craft tacosFresh tortillasChurro dessert

Nestled in San Diego, Lola 55 Tacos & Cocktails has gained a devoted following for its exquisite craft tacos. The medium rare steak was celebrated for being cooked to perfection, while the pork belly received rave reviews for its melt-in-your-mouth quality. The highlight for many customers was watching the fresh tortillas being made right on the spot to accompany their order. While the mezcal cocktails may have fallen short for some patrons, the beautiful flavors of the tacos, especially the Baja fish taco and carnitas, were not to be missed.

Mike’s Taco Club

9.2/10 (1874 reviews)

Website | Directions

Delicious Cali BurritosFresh seafoodExcellent service

Located in Ocean Beach, Mike’s Taco Club is praised for its Cali Burritos. The original features steak, fries, cheese, onion, tomato, cilantro, guacamole, and sour cream, while the Surf and Turf version adds shrimp. Custom sauces like spicy white and chipotle are available to elevate the flavors. With limited indoor seating, the restaurant is ideal for takeout, perfect for enjoying beachside at Sunset Cliffs. Patrons rave about the fresh ingredients and generous portions, making it a must-visit spot for seafood lovers. The Carne Asada fries and fish tacos are also highly recommended.

Señor Taquero

9/10 (437 reviews)

Website | Directions | +1 619-550-5451

AffordableDiverse menuFast service

Señor Taquero is a no-frills taco spot that delivers delicious food at an affordable price. The adobada, carne asada, and carnitas tacos are standout items, each offering unique flavors that keep customers coming back for more. The saudero taco special and adobada taco are also customer favorites, showcasing the diverse menu options available at this longstanding eatery. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Señor Taquero is definitely worth a visit for a satisfying and budget-friendly meal experience.

Roxy’s Tacos

9.6/10 (631 reviews)

| Directions | +1 619-349-4839

Flavorful BirriaGenerously sized burritosAuthentic family recipes

Roxy’s Tacos sits off C Street in downtown San Diego and is a must-visit gem. The Carne Asada Burrito is perfectly marinated, the traditional Birria Taco is full of flavor, and the green salsa truly shines. While the atmosphere is welcoming and the Mexican Coke is a great addition, it’s the authentic family recipes that truly set Roxy’s apart. Give this spot a try if you’re in the area – you won’t be disappointed.

Las Cuatro Milpas

9.4/10 (4066 reviews)

Website | Directions | +1 619-234-4460

Authentic tortillasHomestyle MexicanIconic San Diego

Las Cuatro Milpas, a San Diego staple since 1933, offers a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine in a no-frills setting that transports you back in time. The in-house made tortillas bring a sense of tradition and the simple menu keeps the focus on classic favorites like beef tacos and chorizo beans. The atmosphere may be dated, but the flavors are timeless and worth the wait, as lines wrap around the block for a reason.

Taquería Los Chuchys

9.2/10 (507 reviews)

Website | Directions | +1 619-326-8385

Delicious dishesOpen salsa barWarm staff

Taquería Los Chuchys in San Diego offers a delightful dining experience, complete with delicious and generously portioned dishes. The Al Pastor Carne Asada Fries, Mulita, Tacos Al Pastor, and Quesadilla are standout menu items, bursting with flavor and expertly crafted. The open salsa bar is a unique touch, allowing guests to customize their dishes to their liking and elevating the overall dining experience. The welcoming staff and fast service ensure a satisfying visit, making this spot a must-try for fans of authentic and mouthwatering Mexican cuisine.

City Tacos

9/10 (337 reviews)

Website | Directions | +1 858-284-4239

Unique flavorsFresh tortillasExcellent service

City Tacos in Pacific Beach is a must-visit for taco lovers. The unique and delicious flavors of their tacos really stand out, with fresh tortillas that are simply awesome. The variety of options for vegetarians and meat lovers alike is impressive, from the Fried Zucchini Taco to the Pescado Taco. The service here is top-notch, with quick and attentive staff like Brian making sure your dining experience is enjoyable. The presentation of the tacos is stunning, adding to the overall experience of dining at City Tacos.