The Best Tacos San Diego Has to Offer
Tacos…you know you love ‘em. We all do! There’s nothing quite like biting into a juicy, delicious taco when those cravings hit. Good thing “America’s Finest City” enjoys a location right next to the border. Because of this, the Mexican food scene in the metro is easily the best in the nation. And once you hit a few of the taquerias on this list, we think you’ll be hard-pressed to disagree. Looking for some local flavor? Here are our picks for some of the best tacos San Diego has in store for you.
Oscar’s Mexican Seafood (1.7 miles)
(Photo: @oscarsmex)
Oscar’s is a well-kept secret for residents of Point Loma and Ocean Beach. Their fantastic Surf & Turf taco — served with a skirt steak and shrimp combo — is a sure-fire favorite. The signature smoked-fish taco is also a unique offering we haven’t found anywhere else in the city. If you really want to go for some mixed-grill magic, try the Taco Especial, which is brimming with the aforementioned smoked fish, as well as shrimp and scallops.
646 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103
Lola 55 (4.3 miles away)
(Photo: @lola55_sandiego)
We’re firm believers that all tacos are good tacos. But some are simply a cut above. Lola 55 doesn’t just make an amazing taco, they make a taco good enough to show up on the Michelin Guide. In addition to serving stellar examples of classics like smoked carnitas and al-pastor pork, Lola 55 adds in some non-traditional (but no less delicious) choices such as squash blossom, mushroom, and cauliflower. This spot is not to be missed during your stay.
1290 F St. San Diego, CA 92101
City Tacos (4.8 miles)
(Photo: @citytacossd)
City Tacos combines traditional Mexican recipes with a distinctly SoCal twist that has made them a standout favorite among San Diegans. The star of this North Park restaurant is the Chorizo Asado, a spicy-sweet concoction of crispy sausage combined with caramelized pineapple and creamy melted Oaxaca cheese. But City Tacos doesn’t stop there. Their menu offers traditional meat tacos, but has also expanded to include fish, vegetarian, and even paleo tacos for those with unique dietary needs.
3028 University Ave, San Diego, CA, 92104
Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill (5.2 miles away)
(Photo: @bluewaterseafoodsd)
We feel confident in saying that Blue Water’s fish tacos may just be the best in town. They start with a fresh corn tortilla, then add veggies, cheese, and a secret, house-made sauce. Then comes a generous portion of beer-battered cod, shrimp, or lobster. The end result is nothing short of absolutely addictive. If you’re an area visitor, you may find yourself planning a return trip just for these tacos before you even head to the airport. Insider tip: Blue Wave recently added a new location in nearby Ocean Beach. So grab a taco and a beer, and watch the sun dip behind the pier just steps away!
3667 India St, San Diego, CA 92103
The Taco Stand (5.2 miles away)
(Photo: @letstaco_)
This North Park favorite is notable for its modern surroundings and daily scratch-made salsas. Here you’ll find classic favorites like carne asada and al pastor sharing space with spicy shrimp, mahi mahi, and cactus. Don’t miss out on diving into the rest of the menu during your visit, as the quesadillas, burritos, and even breakfast offerings are all top-notch. And while they may not exactly be traditional, the Mar y Tierra fries (loaded with grilled shrimp, steak, and guacamole) are an experience you shouldn’t pass up.
3000 Upas St. San Diego, CA 92014
Sandbar Sports Bar & Grill (5.7 miles)
(Photo: @kevinfarag)
Sandbar’s casual sports-bar vibe provides an easygoing setting, plus a menu chock-full of award-winning tacos you’ll absolutely love. Get yours served Tijuana street-style (with cilantro and onions on a fresh corn tortilla), beach style (flour tortilla with shredded cheese, lettuce, and salsa) or Sandbar’s own award-winning “TKO” style — on a cotija-crusted tortilla with beer-brined slaw, lime crema, onion strings, and fried cilantro. Stop at this beachside bistro before or after your trip to nearby Belmont Park, and make a day of it.
718 Ventura Pl, San Diego, CA 92109
Tacos El Gordo (17.9 miles)
(Photo: @tacoselgordo_)
The closest thing you’ll find in town to Tijuana-style street tacos, Tacos El Gordo’s popular San Diego location is a must-stop on your local taco tour. This favorite local taqueria’s menu features always-fresh handmade corn tortillas, organic ingredients, and savory meats. Favorites include the suadero (beef brisket), adobada (tender spiced pork), and classic carne asada (grilled steak). You also have the option to build your own.
3265 Palm Ave, San Diego, CA 92154
Make Days Your Taco Tour Home Base
(Photo: @daysinnhc)
On the hunt for a little sabor? Our centrally-located San Diego hotel is the perfect base camp for your taco travels. We’re close to all the great taquerias we’ve mentioned here, plus just moments from Old Town — where the authentic Mexican cuisine is delicious and plentiful. We also offer competitive rates, lots of on-site amenities, and fantastic service. When you’re ready to start planning, make sure to check out our Special Offers page, and start getting your order ready!