Top 24 Tacos restaurants in Downtown San Diego San Diego

Discover our curated list of top-ranked Tacos restaurants in Downtown San Diego San Diego, compiled from extensive research across reputable websites and blogs. Explore outstanding options like La Puerta, Puesto At The Headquarters, King and Queen Cantina, The Blind Burro, Tacos El Gordo. Let's explore together!

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1. La Puerta

Large patio with retractable roof and vibrant bar scene

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (4087 Review by google)
  • Address:

    560 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Extensive tequila list, friendly service, lively atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Can get crowded, some menu items are hit or miss, expensive for the portion size
  • Popular Menu:

    Tacos, enchiladas, guacamole
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30 per entree
Phone Directions Website
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at La Puerta, where every bite is a fiesta for your taste buds. Gather your amigos and immerse yourself in a lively atmosphere where spicy margaritas flow and fresh guacamole tantalizes your senses. Savor the authentic American/Mexican fusion cuisine that leaves a lasting impression, no matter how far you travel. Whether you're a local looking for a delicious meal or a traveler seeking a taste of San Diego's culinary scene, La Puerta promises a memorable dining experience that will keep you coming back for more.

TOPICS

  • Indian Cuisine
  • Happy Hours
  • Dinner
  • Downtown Spots

2. Puesto At The Headquarters

Fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Indoor and outdoor seating, Wheelchair accessible

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (3020 Review by google)
  • Address:

    789 W Harbor Dr UNIT 155, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Delicious Mexican street food, Great craft beer selection, Family-friendly atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Can get crowded during peak hours, Limited parking, Some menu items may be too spicy for some
  • Popular Menu:

    Tacos, Guacamole, Burgers
  • Price Range:

    $ - $$, depending on order
Phone Directions Website
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary world at Puesto within The Headquarters. Indulge in the exquisite flavors of their vegetarian tacos, a true delight for your taste buds. The menu may seem upscale, but the unique and mouthwatering dishes justify every penny spent. From the savory meat options to the top-notch service, every aspect of your dining experience is carefully curated for your utmost satisfaction. Don't forget to grab a parking ticket for a seamless visit at just $5.
Start your culinary journey with the delightful Chip & Salsa appetizer before delving into a feast of Potato Taquitos, flavorful vegetable tacos, and the tantalizing Britto Rice Bowl. While most dishes impress with their taste and presentation, be cautious with the fish option as it might not meet your expectations. The inviting ambiance of Seaport Village sets the perfect backdrop for a memorable meal, enhanced by the attentive and friendly staff ready to cater to your every need.

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

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3. King and Queen Cantina

Modern Mexican cuisine in a stylish setting

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (3564 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1490 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of dishes, trendy atmosphere, great margaritas
  • Cons:

    Pricey for the portion size, hit-or-miss service, limited vegetarian options
  • Popular Menu:

    Tacos, enchiladas, carne asada
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website
Indulge in a tantalizing culinary experience at King and Queen Cantina, where every dish bursts with delightful flavors that tantalize the taste buds. The intricate blend of spices in each bite will transport your senses to a whole new level of satisfaction. Despite the exquisite taste, the portion sizes may leave you yearning for more, making it seem a tad pricey for the quantity served. Dive into the "Taco Tuesday" offer, although note that the advertised 3 for $8 deal may surprise you at $9. Nevertheless, the tacos, though compact, pack a punch of authentic Mexican flavors that will have you craving for more. And to complement your meal, sip on their refreshing margaritas that add a touch of whimsical delight to your dining experience.
While the reviews may paint a picture of grandeur, your personal visit might reveal a different story. The allure of King and Queen Cantina may not be as compelling as expected, with pricing that leans towards the higher end and drinks that might not meet your expectations in terms of potency. Despite the drawbacks, the culinary journey at this establishment promises a unique gastronomic adventure that is worth exploring, even if just for the exquisite flavors that infuse each dish. So, why not give it a shot and experience the delightful fusion of taste and ambiance for yourself?

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Happy Hours
  • Downtown Spots

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4. The Blind Burro

Vibrant atmosphere with a lively bar scene

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (1787 Review by google)
  • Address:

    639 J St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Offers happy hour specials, outdoor seating, live music on weekends
  • Cons:

    Limited vegetarian options, some complaints about slow service
  • Popular Menu:

    Baja fish tacos, carne asada burrito, guacamole and chips
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website
Intriguing and spacious, The Blind Burro provides a delightful Mexican dining experience. The menu boasts a wide array of Mexican classics, all prepared with fresh and high-quality ingredients. A standout dish is the flavorful lobster tacos, perfectly complemented by the outstanding salsa and chips that are truly addictive. While the street corn was decent, the rice and pinto beans rounded out the meal nicely. A must-try for a satisfying and vibrant culinary adventure.

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Hidden Gems

5. Tacos El Gordo

Family-owned business since 1972, famous for their tacos

  • Time:

    10 AM to 2 AM

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (1268 Review by google)
  • Address:

    511 F St, San Diego, CA 92102, United States

  • Pros:

    Authentic Mexican tacos, friendly service, large portions
  • Cons:

    Can be crowded, limited seating, cash only
  • Popular Menu:

    Adobada tacos, carne asada tacos, al pastor tacos
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website
Tacos El Gordo is a delightful culinary gem, offering a plethora of delectable dishes. While it may be challenging to choose from their menu, the vampire tacos stand out as a must-try. The 50s-inspired seating area upstairs adds an extra touch of charm to the ambiance, elevating the dining experience. The smoky, flavorful meats, ordered by type, are a true delight for the taste buds, with the Vampiro being a standout choice that promises a return visit. The attentive staff ensures cleanliness and order, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the visit.

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats

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6. The Taco Stand

Famous for their authentic Mexican street tacos and homemade tortillas

  • Time:

    9 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (1715 Review by google)
  • Address:

    645 B St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Fast and friendly service, delicious and authentic tacos, popular late-night spot
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, can get crowded, cash-only restaurant
  • Popular Menu:

    Carne Asada Tacos, Adobada Tacos, and their Al Pastor Tacos
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website
Indulge in the mouthwatering delights at The Taco Stand, a place I simply adore. The Cali burrito satisfies my cravings, while the tantalizing salsa and sauces elevate the flavors to new heights. Whether in La Jolla or elsewhere, the impeccable quality of the food remains top-notch, evidenced by the delightful shrimp and ground chicken tacos that had me hooked. Despite the bustling crowd, the quick-moving line ensures you're satisfying your taste buds in no time.

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Late Night
  • Downtown Spots

7. Tacos El Cabron

Authentic street-style tacos in the heart of San Diego

  • Time:

    8 AM to 1 AM

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (1365 Review by google)
  • Address:

    532 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Lively atmosphere, generous portions, delicious Mexican cuisine
  • Cons:

    Can get crowded, limited seating, cash-only policy
  • Popular Menu:

    Carne Asada Tacos, Adobada Burrito, Carne Asada Fries
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website
Tacos El Cabron offers delicious tacos, despite struggling to keep up with the bustling crowd. Credit is due for their efforts during a busy time, although the salsa bar was unfortunately unstocked. Dining around 3 PM on a weekday, we enjoyed two tacos and one beef fries, all of which were flavorsome. The standout was the incredibly delicious shrimp taco, with a perfect level of spiciness. Despite the limited guests, our dining experience outside was delightful.

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Downtown Spots

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8. Lola 55 Tacos & Cocktails

Mexican-inspired small plates and craft cocktails

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (1031 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1290 F St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Modern decor, creative taco options, popular cocktails
  • Cons:

    Pricey for the portion size, limited seating, can get crowded
  • Popular Menu:

    Crispy Brussels Sprouts Taco, Carne Asada Taco, Lola's Famous Margarita
  • Price Range:

    $11-$30
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Mid-Range
  • Social Gatherings
  • Downtown Spots

9. Pokez Mexican Restaurant

A staple of San Diego Mexican food since 1980

  • Time:

    9 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (1635 Review by google)
  • Address:

    947 E St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Authentic Mexican cuisine, centrally located, offers vegetarian options
  • Cons:

    Some reviewers mention slow service, hit-or-miss food quality, cash-only
  • Popular Menu:

    Carne asada burrito, carnitas tacos, fish tacos
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats
  • Downtown Spots
  • Vegan Options

10. Cocina 35

35 different Mexican dishes in one place

  • Time:

    8 AM to 2 PM

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (2297 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1435 Sixth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of dishes, convenient location, offers catering services
  • Cons:

    Some customers complain about slow service, hit-or-miss quality, limited seating
  • Popular Menu:

    Tacos, quesadillas, ceviche
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Breakfast

11. Las Hadas Bar and Grill

A hidden gem in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter with a long-standing reputation for great food and atmosphere

  • Time:

    3 PM to 1 AM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (1213 Review by google)
  • Address:

    558 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Offers Mexican and seafood options, friendly staff, live music on weekends, outdoor seating, and a relaxed atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Prices may be slightly high for some visitors, limited parking, cash-only policy may be inconvenient for some
  • Popular Menu:

    Fish tacos, ceviche, and margaritas
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Happy Hours
  • Social Gatherings

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12. El Chingon

Unique fusion of Mexican and Asian cuisine

  • Rating: 4.1/5 (2540 Review by google)
  • Address:

    560 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Modern Mexican cuisine, trendy atmosphere, great cocktails
  • Cons:

    Can be noisy and crowded, prices on the higher side, hit-or-miss service
  • Popular Menu:

    Taco flights, carne asada, Baja blurrito
  • Price Range:

    $15-$35 per entree
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Happy Hours
  • Downtown Spots

13. Valentine's Mexican Food

Features live mariachi music on weekends, cozy patio dining, full bar with specialty margaritas

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (612 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1157 Sixth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Authentic Mexican cuisine, romantic atmosphere for date night, offers vegetarian and gluten-free options
  • Cons:

    Limited parking, may be pricier than other Mexican restaurants, some dishes may be too spicy for some
  • Popular Menu:

    Carne Asada, Fish Tacos, Guacamole
  • Price Range:

    $11-$30
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Dinner

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14. Roxy’s Tacos

Authentic Mexican street food experience

  • Time:

    8:30 AM to 7 PM

  • Rating: 4.8/5 (606 Review by google)
  • Address:

    815 C St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Central location in downtown San Diego, Large portions, Offers vegetarian and vegan options
  • Cons:

    Cash only, No dedicated parking lot, Can get crowded during peak hours
  • Popular Menu:

    Carne Asada Tacos, Al Pastor Tacos, Vegan Tacos
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Dinner
  • Downtown Spots

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15. Not Not Tacos - Little Italy

Known for their creative and delicious sushi tacos

  • Time:

    11 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (741 Review by google)
  • Address:

    550 W Date St suite b, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Centrally located, offers vegetarian and vegan options, unique fusion of Mexican and Japanese cuisine
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, may have long wait times during peak hours, expensive for some budgets
  • Popular Menu:

    Tuna Taquitos, Bison Bowl, Spicy Chicken Tacos
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Social Gatherings
  • Cheap Eats
  • Lunch

16. Allegro Restaurant and Bar

Offers al fresco dining and craft cocktails

  • Rating: 4.1/5 (725 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1536 India St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide selection of dishes, trendy and cozy atmosphere, excellent cocktails and wine list
  • Cons:

    Prices can be high for some, small portions, hit-or-miss service
  • Popular Menu:

    Beef Carpaccio, Pan-Seared Scallops, Grilled Pork Chop
  • Price Range:

    $31-$60
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Mid-Range
  • Downtown Spots

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17. TACO CENTRO

Uses local and sustainable ingredients, Offers vegan and vegetarian options

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (320 Review by google)
  • Address:

    539 Island Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Lively atmosphere, Authentic Mexican cuisine, Wide variety of taco options
  • Cons:

    Can get crowded, Limited parking, Some dishes may be too spicy
  • Popular Menu:

    Carne Asada Tacos, Adobada Tacos, Fish Tacos
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats

18. Juan Tequila Bar & Restaurant

Authentic Mexican atmosphere with a modern twist

  • Time:

    9 PM to 2 AM

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (382 Review by google)
  • Address:

    535 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Extensive tequila selection, live mariachi music, happy hour specials
  • Cons:

    Prices can be steep, limited parking, some tables have loud acoustics
  • Popular Menu:

    Tacos, enchiladas, guacamole
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30 per entree
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

19. Señor Taquero

Fresh ingredients, Homemade salsa and tortillas

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (438 Review by google)
  • Address:

    435 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Authentic Mexican street food, Friendly staff, Casual atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, Noise level can be high, Cash only
  • Popular Menu:

    Tacos, Burritos, Quesadillas
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • Cheap Eats
  • Downtown Spots

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20. Azteca Taco Shop

Family-owned and operated restaurant since 1992

  • Time:

    7 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (378 Review by google)
  • Address:

    555 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Authentic Mexican cuisine, friendly service, convenient location
  • Cons:

    Limited vegetarian options, can get crowded during peak hours, some items may be spicy for some customers
  • Popular Menu:

    Carne asada burrito, carnitas tacos, chicken tortilla soup
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats
  • Downtown Spots

21. The Waves Taco Club

Sustainable and locally sourced ingredients, focus on fresh and unique flavors

  • Time:

    11 AM to 9:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.8/5 (198 Review by google)
  • Address:

    916 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Located near the beach, offers vegetarian and vegan options, provides outdoor seating
  • Cons:

    Prices slightly higher than other taco places, limited parking, may be crowded during peak hours
  • Popular Menu:

    Baja Fish Tacos, Carne Asada Tacos, Vegan Tacos
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Happy Hours

22. Taquería Los Chuchys

Family-owned taquería since 2008

  • Time:

    10 AM to 11 PM

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (469 Review by google)
  • Address:

    543 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Authentic Mexican food, friendly service, casual atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, cash-only, no vegetarian options except sides
  • Popular Menu:

    Tacos, burritos, quesadillas
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats
  • Downtown Spots

23. City Tacos

Local favorite with homemade salsas

  • Time:

    11 AM to 8:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (179 Review by google)
  • Address:

    323 7th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Authentic tacos, friendly service, casual atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, can get crowded, cash only
  • Popular Menu:

    Carne asada tacos, carnitas tortas, horchata
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Downtown Spots

24. Lucys Taco Shop

Small family-owned business since 1980

  • Time:

    7 AM to 2 PM

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (307 Review by google)
  • Address:

    109 West C St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Authentic Mexican food, Friendly staff, Casual atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, Cash only, No delivery service
  • Popular Menu:

    Carne asada burrito, Fish tacos, Horchata
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Lunch

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