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It is said that a trip to San Diego is incomplete without relishing the delightful taco creations from the street vendors. In the food scene of this SoCal metropolis, you will find a bunch of the finest restaurants serving delicious platters, but nothing truly matches the essence of street tacos in the city.
Some of these taco places have been a local staple for a long time while other newcomers are gracing the localities with their innovative creations on the menu. As the aromas of freshly cooked tacos spread across the streets, one succumbs to the feeling of hunger and couldn't resist without trying it out.
One striking thing about tacos in San Diego is that they reflect the seasonal and local flavours in almost every outlet that you visit. Being situated on the bay, you will find the freshest seafood fillings which are available all year round. Even if you are not such a big fan of seafood, you will still find a range of options that are delicious plus budget-friendly. Dig in to find out which places serve the best street tacos in the city.
Try Out These 6 Iconic Taco Places In San Diego
1) Tacos El Gordo
Tacos El Gordo has been one of the most renowned places for tacos that stood as a beloved taqueria in Chula Vista since the 90s. For more than 20 years, this place has been a landmark in the city’s food trail and continues to serve delicious handheld treats with delectable fillings. This place is especially noted for its carne asada, adobada, cabeza, suadero, and tripa options which draw huge crowds, especially during late hours. The adobada is a hallmark treat that features chile-marinated pork shaved from a spit.
Location: 556 Broadway, Chula Vista, San Diego County CA 91910
Timings: Sun-Thu: 10 am–2 am; Fri-Sat: 10 am–4 am
Must Try: Adobada taco
Price for 2: $30 approx.
Image Credit: Tacos El Gordo
2) Puesto
Puesto stands out as one of San Diego's premier taco destinations where you will get some of the most indulgent treats like filet mignon, jidori chicken, and lobster tacos. You can identify this restaurant by their signature touch on every taco which includes a crispy layer of melted cheese enveloping the entire tortilla. These tacos are complemented by a tender filet, creamy avocado, and a zesty pistachio-serrano salsa. In the newest outpost located at Mission Valley, you also get a selection of craft beers to accompany your meals.
Location: 5010 Mission Center Rd, San Diego, CA 92108
Timings: Sun-Thu: 11 am–9 pm; Fri-Sat: 11 am–10 pm
Must Try: Filet Mignon Taco, Lobster Taco
Price for 2: $20 approx.
Image Credit: Puesto
3) Las Cuatro Milpas
Known for the famous handmade tortillas and deep-fried rolled tacos, Las Cuatro Milpas has been a local favourite gem since 1933. With a simple and affordable menu, you get to choose from a lot of options among which pork option topped with cilantro and onions is a must-try. Even with the cash-only policy and frequent queues, the experience is well worth the wait. With offerings ranging from as low as $5, you get a satisfying experience in this historic taqueria.
Location: 1857 Logan Ave, San Diego, CA 92113
Timings: Sun: Closed; Mon-Fri: 8:30 am–3 pm; Sat: 6 am–3 pm
Must Try: Shredded pork tacos
Price for 2: $20 approx.
4) Lola 55
For those who like to sip expertly crafted cocktails while munching on crispy tacos, Lola 55 offers the best experience. Awarded a Bib Gourmand by Michelin, this upscale eatery serves the best seafood delights among which Baja-style fish tacos are most liked. This place is also known for the famed pork belly al pastor taco which is among the most raved delights on the menu. Along with this, you also get vegetarian-friendly options like squash blossom relleno taco.
Location: 1290 F St, San Diego, CA 92101
Timings: Sun-Thu: 11:30 am–9 pm; Fri-Sat: 11:30 am–10 pm; Mon: Closed
Must Try: Baja-Style Fish Tacos, Pork Belly Al Pastor Taco
Price for 2: $30 approx.
Image Credit: Lola 55
5) City Tacos
Serving creative taco combinations, City Tacos stands out for its delectable taco treats with meat, fish, and veggie filling options sided with inventive salsas. From mahi-mahi with strawberries to the savoury Mexicali, their menu is an adventurous experience for those who like to try something new all the time. The Mexicali features skirt steak, mashed potato, poblano peppers, and a touch of crema and cotija cheese, which is a must-try on the menu. Along with this, the twists on traditional favourites like camarón enchilado taco with grilled shrimp over asadero cheese are also worth a try.
Location: 3028 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104
Timings: Mon-Sun: 11 am–10 pm
Must Try: Mexicali Taco, Camarón Enchilado Taco
Price for 2: $30 approx.
Image Credit: City Tacos
6) The Taco Stand
The Taco Stand is situated at multiple locations all over the county and recently they have opened their eighth location in downtown San Diego. Here you will get some of the best handmade corn tortillas and chips with fresh guacamole, and salsas made from scratch. Blending classic flavours with modern twists, The Taco Stand serves delectable tacos like al pastor tacos with picked pork and sweet pineapple. The Mexican-flavoured popsicles or made-to-order churros give a sweet conclusion to the meal.
Location: 4646 Convoy St #111, San Diego, CA 92111
Timings: Sun-Thu: 10 am–10 pm; Fri-Sat: 10 am–12 am
Must Try: Al Pastor Taco, Churros
Price for 2: $30 approx.
When you are exploring the city, don't forget to check out these taco hotspots dotting all over the county. From traditional flavours to modern twists, each eatery has something special for everyone.
