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Taco-bout Tasty Tacos in San Diego

A photo of Red logo
by The OpenTable Team
Updated January 28, 2020

Early settlers who made their way to California called themselves Californios, and their heritage still touches everything from cultural events to the best tacos in San Diego. Of course, the mass influx of immigration means that this Mexican mainstay turns up all over town, whether filled with fresh Pacific seafood or local California produce. So where do the most seasoned diners go? Welcome to the Tastemaker 20. Through OpenTable’s massive network of devoted foodies, we’ve pinpointed the best tacos in San Diego. The top tacos restaurants in San Diego change based on who you ask. Why not try them all?

4.7 (660)
$30 and under
Mexican
Old Town
As San Diego's first mezcal tasting room and bar, Tahona Bar most stands out for its tasty craft cocktails. In fact, food isn't even served in the tasting room. Fortunately, this doesn't stop the eatery from having some of the best tacos in San Diego. They've got several varieties for all tastes, and Taco Tuesday opens the door to experience new flavors. Other dishes are Oaxacan-inspired, so the menu offers a variety of unique dishes. This is all enjoyed surrounded by high-end Mexican décor, artworks, fascinating sculptures and desert foliage.
Top review
Sheila
Dined 4 days ago
What a great experience! The servers were very attentive, friendly and helpful. The place looks tiny from the outside, but once you go inside it is bigger than you think. The decor is very chic and beautiful, airy with a touch of romanticism. The food was amazing. Everything was fresh, flavorful and cooked spot-on. We ordered chips, salsa and guacamole. The red salsa is where its at. It had the perfect amount of light spice with a lot of flavor. I ordered the stuffed squash blossoms which were fried to perfection, stuffed with a great combo of flavors, sitting on a bed of refried beans. My friend ordered the machaca wagyu tostada which had the meat cooked two ways and layered for a burst of flavor in each bite.
As San Diego's first mezcal tasting room and bar, Tahona Bar most stands out for its tasty craft cocktails. In fact, food isn't even served in the tasting room. Fortunately, this doesn't stop the eatery from having some of the best tacos in San Diego. They've got several varieties for all tastes, and Taco Tuesday opens the door to experience new flavors. Other dishes are Oaxacan-inspired, so the menu offers a variety of unique dishes. This is all enjoyed surrounded by high-end Mexican décor, artworks, fascinating sculptures and desert foliage.
Top review
Sheila
Dined 4 days ago
What a great experience! The servers were very attentive, friendly and helpful. The place looks tiny from the outside, but once you go inside it is bigger than you think. The decor is very chic and beautiful, airy with a touch of romanticism. The food was amazing. Everything was fresh, flavorful and cooked spot-on. We ordered chips, salsa and guacamole. The red salsa is where its at. It had the perfect amount of light spice with a lot of flavor. I ordered the stuffed squash blossoms which were fried to perfection, stuffed with a great combo of flavors, sitting on a bed of refried beans. My friend ordered the machaca wagyu tostada which had the meat cooked two ways and layered for a burst of flavor in each bite.
4.8 (577)
$30 and under
Mexican
Mission Valley
A fresh and crisp take on traditional Mexican fare has been created at Blanco Tacos + Tequila. The interior features pop murals, vibrant colors, contemporary art and modern décor. This makes it unlike most Mexican restaurants that focus on traditional designs. The menu is similarly up-to-date, and it includes options like kale Caesar salads, braised chicken burritos, grilled tiger shrimp fajitas and some of the best tacos in San Diego. In fact, they offer eight varieties of the latter. From crispy fried shrimp to short rib machaca tacos, every palate will find a favorite.
Top review
OpenTable Diner
Dined 7 days ago
The Cocina
A fresh and crisp take on traditional Mexican fare has been created at Blanco Tacos + Tequila. The interior features pop murals, vibrant colors, contemporary art and modern décor. This makes it unlike most Mexican restaurants that focus on traditional designs. The menu is similarly up-to-date, and it includes options like kale Caesar salads, braised chicken burritos, grilled tiger shrimp fajitas and some of the best tacos in San Diego. In fact, they offer eight varieties of the latter. From crispy fried shrimp to short rib machaca tacos, every palate will find a favorite.
Top review
OpenTable Diner
Dined 7 days ago
The Cocina
4.4 (3150)
$31 to $50
Mediterranean
University Heights
Foodies may not be expecting to find the best tacos in San Diego at a Mediterranean restaurant, but that's exactly what they'll get at Madison. The eatery offers a variety of expected dishes – such as salmon crudo and free-range chicken – but they fortunately added carnitas tacos to their brunch menu. The Mediterranean Breakfast is also available for brunch. Whatever guests choose to enjoy, they do so surrounded by elegant architecture, contemporary lighting, abstract art and some of the most unique booth separators in the city.
Top review
StevenVIP
Dined 6 days ago
As always, cocktails and dinner at Madison were excellent. Our server Johnny was superb... very friendly, attentive (but not overly so), and fun.
Foodies may not be expecting to find the best tacos in San Diego at a Mediterranean restaurant, but that's exactly what they'll get at Madison. The eatery offers a variety of expected dishes – such as salmon crudo and free-range chicken – but they fortunately added carnitas tacos to their brunch menu. The Mediterranean Breakfast is also available for brunch. Whatever guests choose to enjoy, they do so surrounded by elegant architecture, contemporary lighting, abstract art and some of the most unique booth separators in the city.
Top review
StevenVIP
Dined 6 days ago
As always, cocktails and dinner at Madison were excellent. Our server Johnny was superb... very friendly, attentive (but not overly so), and fun.
4.8 (5133)
$31 to $50
American
University City/Golden Triangle
With 52 wines by the glass and an impressive menu that changes seasonally to ensure absolute freshness, Seasons 52 is a truly special restaurant. Every menu item is either prepared in a brick oven roast or oak-fire grill, and this results in delicious offerings like filet mignon, lobster tail, Chilean sea bass and blackened mahi mahi tacos. Valet parking provides an air of luxury, and the fire pit, high-end bar, rustic fountain and live piano music also assist in this endeavor. Seasons 52 is one of the most luxurious places to enjoy the best tacos in San Diego.
Top review
JanetVIP
Dined 3 days ago
Best experience I have had at Seasons 52, the waiter was so attentive and polite and friendly and did an amazing job, Aza was his name & he was the best waiter ever. Also loved all of our food
With 52 wines by the glass and an impressive menu that changes seasonally to ensure absolute freshness, Seasons 52 is a truly special restaurant. Every menu item is either prepared in a brick oven roast or oak-fire grill, and this results in delicious offerings like filet mignon, lobster tail, Chilean sea bass and blackened mahi mahi tacos. Valet parking provides an air of luxury, and the fire pit, high-end bar, rustic fountain and live piano music also assist in this endeavor. Seasons 52 is one of the most luxurious places to enjoy the best tacos in San Diego.
Top review
JanetVIP
Dined 3 days ago
Best experience I have had at Seasons 52, the waiter was so attentive and polite and friendly and did an amazing job, Aza was his name & he was the best waiter ever. Also loved all of our food
4.9 (352)
$31 to $50
Contemporary American
Mission Valley
Located at the Neiman Marcus San Diego, The NM Cafe offers delectable seasonal entrees just steps from one of the city’s favorite shopping destinations. The glass walls, fancy dining sets, fine art and even complimentary chocolates create a high-end experience without breaking the bank. They offer exceptional menu items of contemporary American flavors, and guests are constantly praising the red wine-braised short ribs, chicken paillard Milanese and BLTA (featuring avocado). Their offering of best tacos in San Diego features blacked salmon filet on corn tortillas.
Top review
Donna
Dined 5 days ago
Great place to have lunch with friends. The restaurant is quiet so you can carry on a conversation without competing with the background noise. The food is exceptional and the wait staff is friendly, helpful, and accomodating. Feels like a special occasion every time I’ve dined there.
Located at the Neiman Marcus San Diego, The NM Cafe offers delectable seasonal entrees just steps from one of the city’s favorite shopping destinations. The glass walls, fancy dining sets, fine art and even complimentary chocolates create a high-end experience without breaking the bank. They offer exceptional menu items of contemporary American flavors, and guests are constantly praising the red wine-braised short ribs, chicken paillard Milanese and BLTA (featuring avocado). Their offering of best tacos in San Diego features blacked salmon filet on corn tortillas.
Top review
Donna
Dined 5 days ago
Great place to have lunch with friends. The restaurant is quiet so you can carry on a conversation without competing with the background noise. The food is exceptional and the wait staff is friendly, helpful, and accomodating. Feels like a special occasion every time I’ve dined there.
4.8 (1676)
$30 and under
American
Mission Hills
Situated right in the heart of Mission Hills, Farmer's Bottego offers farm-to-table meals in addition to a variety of craft wine and beer. The distressed wooden walls, exposed brick, vintage lighting and industrial décor create an old-fashioned vibe that give guests a true feeling of being on the farm. They offer two varieties – pork belly and mahi mahi – of the best tacos in San Diego. Patrons whose taste buds are hoping for something different, though, will enjoy the fennel sausage flat breads, grilled turkey sandwich, stuffed quail and variety of breakfast offerings early in the day.
Top review
Michael
Dined 3 days ago
what a great find! Went back again the next night. Great food and fantastic service.
Situated right in the heart of Mission Hills, Farmer's Bottego offers farm-to-table meals in addition to a variety of craft wine and beer. The distressed wooden walls, exposed brick, vintage lighting and industrial décor create an old-fashioned vibe that give guests a true feeling of being on the farm. They offer two varieties – pork belly and mahi mahi – of the best tacos in San Diego. Patrons whose taste buds are hoping for something different, though, will enjoy the fennel sausage flat breads, grilled turkey sandwich, stuffed quail and variety of breakfast offerings early in the day.
Top review
Michael
Dined 3 days ago
what a great find! Went back again the next night. Great food and fantastic service.
4.4 (2799)
$31 to $50
Contemporary Mexican
La Jolla
Those seeking out an experience along with the best tacos in San Diego have to visit RED O Taste of Mexico. When Taco Tuesday comes around, every guest is treated to a free taco. Additionally, there's flair bartending and a live DJ. There are also other authentic Mexican dishes to enjoy – ranging from prime tomahawk chops to Puerto Nuevo-style Maine Lobster. Regardless of what a guest chooses, they’ll enjoy it surrounded by a luxury resort-style interior featuring a grand chandelier, contemporary décor and gorgeous murals.
Top review
JeffVIP
Dined on May 31, 2025
Normally we go to Red O for lunch and have enjoyed the menu. This was our first weekend brunch experiences, and we thoroughly enjoyed that menu as well and received terrific service from Joey! Wew'll be back for future weekend brunches.
Those seeking out an experience along with the best tacos in San Diego have to visit RED O Taste of Mexico. When Taco Tuesday comes around, every guest is treated to a free taco. Additionally, there's flair bartending and a live DJ. There are also other authentic Mexican dishes to enjoy – ranging from prime tomahawk chops to Puerto Nuevo-style Maine Lobster. Regardless of what a guest chooses, they’ll enjoy it surrounded by a luxury resort-style interior featuring a grand chandelier, contemporary décor and gorgeous murals.
Top review
JeffVIP
Dined on May 31, 2025
Normally we go to Red O for lunch and have enjoyed the menu. This was our first weekend brunch experiences, and we thoroughly enjoyed that menu as well and received terrific service from Joey! Wew'll be back for future weekend brunches.
4.8 (194)
$30 and under
American
La Jolla
Handcrafted cocktails, internationally sourced wines and a variety of bistro classics await visitors of Bazille. Located on the 2nd floor of Nordstrom – overlooking the beautiful courtyard of UTC – this eatery is one of the most aesthetically appealing in the city. Wall art crafted from wine bottles, bright and modern seating, a unique array of contemporary lighting and impressive abstract art all appeal to the senses. Toss in some of the best tacos in San Diego – which are only $4 during Happy Hour – and this is one dining experience that no one should miss.
Top review
WhitneyVIP
Dined on May 13, 2025
Just a great all around experience! We didn’t get much, but will definitely be back.
Handcrafted cocktails, internationally sourced wines and a variety of bistro classics await visitors of Bazille. Located on the 2nd floor of Nordstrom – overlooking the beautiful courtyard of UTC – this eatery is one of the most aesthetically appealing in the city. Wall art crafted from wine bottles, bright and modern seating, a unique array of contemporary lighting and impressive abstract art all appeal to the senses. Toss in some of the best tacos in San Diego – which are only $4 during Happy Hour – and this is one dining experience that no one should miss.
Top review
WhitneyVIP
Dined on May 13, 2025
Just a great all around experience! We didn’t get much, but will definitely be back.
4.4 (1030)
$30 and under
Mexican
Hillcrest
The vibrant colors, wicker lanterns, vaquero-inspired décor and authentic art create a festive environment inside Ortega's A Mexican Bistro. They focus on providing authentic flavors from Baja California and Puerto Nuevo. This means a wide variety of some of the best tacos in San Diego – including vegetarian options – along with enchiladas, ceviche, grilled bistek and chicken pippian. Guests frequently applaud the tableside guacamole and the ever-popular pomegranate margarita.
Top review
RoccoVIP
Dined on May 25, 2025
Steak tacos were amazing! And as always the salsa was delicious
The vibrant colors, wicker lanterns, vaquero-inspired décor and authentic art create a festive environment inside Ortega's A Mexican Bistro. They focus on providing authentic flavors from Baja California and Puerto Nuevo. This means a wide variety of some of the best tacos in San Diego – including vegetarian options – along with enchiladas, ceviche, grilled bistek and chicken pippian. Guests frequently applaud the tableside guacamole and the ever-popular pomegranate margarita.
Top review
RoccoVIP
Dined on May 25, 2025
Steak tacos were amazing! And as always the salsa was delicious
4.5 (1347)
$30 and under
Contemporary American
Mission Hills
A combination of black-and-white photos, industrial lighting, lavish foliage and numerous HDTVs make Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar both a unique and fun getaway from everyday life. Guests can enjoy the eatery after a day among Historic Mission Hills, and if they show up for Taco Tuesdays, they'll get beer, margarita and sangria specials on top of some of the best tacos in San Diego. There are also specials every other night of the week, and patrons have a great selection of beers and beverages rarely found in the same place.
Top review
SusanVIP
Dined 6 days ago
This was our first time dining here. The service was outstanding (Tara was great!!). And the food was excellent (the clam chowder really is awesome). There were 4 of us and we each had a different entree and we all loved our choices. The only downside was that while we were there , they set up a table for 14 people directly behind us. 5 adults and 9 kids. The kids were so loud (yelling) that it really put a damper on our experience- we couldn’t talk to each other without screaming. Definitely not the restaurant’s fault and Tara apologized several times because of the noise but still….. we left without ordering dessert. While we were waiting for our Uber, Tara came outside and said next time we came in, dessert was on her (thought this was very generous). We would definitely return because the food was delicious and the service was excellent. We understand that the restaurant needs to make money and a table of 14 could make or break their night….. but still…
A combination of black-and-white photos, industrial lighting, lavish foliage and numerous HDTVs make Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar both a unique and fun getaway from everyday life. Guests can enjoy the eatery after a day among Historic Mission Hills, and if they show up for Taco Tuesdays, they'll get beer, margarita and sangria specials on top of some of the best tacos in San Diego. There are also specials every other night of the week, and patrons have a great selection of beers and beverages rarely found in the same place.
Top review
SusanVIP
Dined 6 days ago
This was our first time dining here. The service was outstanding (Tara was great!!). And the food was excellent (the clam chowder really is awesome). There were 4 of us and we each had a different entree and we all loved our choices. The only downside was that while we were there , they set up a table for 14 people directly behind us. 5 adults and 9 kids. The kids were so loud (yelling) that it really put a damper on our experience- we couldn’t talk to each other without screaming. Definitely not the restaurant’s fault and Tara apologized several times because of the noise but still….. we left without ordering dessert. While we were waiting for our Uber, Tara came outside and said next time we came in, dessert was on her (thought this was very generous). We would definitely return because the food was delicious and the service was excellent. We understand that the restaurant needs to make money and a table of 14 could make or break their night….. but still…
4.8 (1187)
$31 to $50
Contemporary American
North Park
The owners of Trust Restaurant aim to create an experience-driven eatery. This is why they offer share plates for friends and family to enjoy in a communal setting. The unique murals along the wall combine with exposed ductwork, plenty of natural lighting and modern flair to create an environment that’s perfect for Instagrammable photos. While there are plenty of share trays for a social experience, guests can also opt for smaller dishes like the fried chicken sandwich, octopus fritters, chicken liver toast and rolled tacos con Huevos. They’re certainly a different take on the best tacos in San Diego, but they’re well worth a trip.
Top review
BethVIP
Dined 6 days ago
TRUST is a great place to dine for any meal. Their food is good and service is too. Great for brunch and dining outside. Parking is a bit complicated as they do not have a parking lot. There is a small pay by phone lot across the street and street parking.
The owners of Trust Restaurant aim to create an experience-driven eatery. This is why they offer share plates for friends and family to enjoy in a communal setting. The unique murals along the wall combine with exposed ductwork, plenty of natural lighting and modern flair to create an environment that’s perfect for Instagrammable photos. While there are plenty of share trays for a social experience, guests can also opt for smaller dishes like the fried chicken sandwich, octopus fritters, chicken liver toast and rolled tacos con Huevos. They’re certainly a different take on the best tacos in San Diego, but they’re well worth a trip.
Top review
BethVIP
Dined 6 days ago
TRUST is a great place to dine for any meal. Their food is good and service is too. Great for brunch and dining outside. Parking is a bit complicated as they do not have a parking lot. There is a small pay by phone lot across the street and street parking.
4.7 (329)
$30 and under
Mexican
Old Town
By combining healthy California cooking with authentic Mexican cuisine, Fred's Mexican Cafe has managed to create a truly unique menu for guests to enjoy. Some of their most popular dishes include the Famous Fajitas, Jack cheese queso dip, surf and turf fajitas, Fred's Burger and a variety of the best tacos in San Diego. Seriously, there’s at least 10 to choose from! This is enjoyed among funky décor, pop art, authentic Latin flair and a magnificent fountain area that looks like it was plucked right from the Alamo.
Top review
Scott
Dined on May 26, 2025
Nice place and dog friendly. Our waitress was awesome and food was delicious
By combining healthy California cooking with authentic Mexican cuisine, Fred's Mexican Cafe has managed to create a truly unique menu for guests to enjoy. Some of their most popular dishes include the Famous Fajitas, Jack cheese queso dip, surf and turf fajitas, Fred's Burger and a variety of the best tacos in San Diego. Seriously, there’s at least 10 to choose from! This is enjoyed among funky décor, pop art, authentic Latin flair and a magnificent fountain area that looks like it was plucked right from the Alamo.
Top review
Scott
Dined on May 26, 2025
Nice place and dog friendly. Our waitress was awesome and food was delicious
3.8 (1160)
$30 and under
Mexican
Old Town
The rooftop dining at Old Town Tequila Factory offers panoramic views of the city that could attract crowds all on its own. Fortunately, they have far more to offer. Even the inside dining area – featuring authentic Mexican art, architecture and greenery – provide a beautiful environment to enjoy a meal within. They focus on Old World recipes, and this results in some of the best tacos in San Diego. The roasted turkey tacos are unique and demand to be enjoyed at least once. The steak sandwich, churros, chicken tortilla soup and variety of breakfast options are equally as impressive.
Top review
OpenTable Diner
Dined on May 25, 2025
We had a great time, beautiful view, and friendly attentive service.
The rooftop dining at Old Town Tequila Factory offers panoramic views of the city that could attract crowds all on its own. Fortunately, they have far more to offer. Even the inside dining area – featuring authentic Mexican art, architecture and greenery – provide a beautiful environment to enjoy a meal within. They focus on Old World recipes, and this results in some of the best tacos in San Diego. The roasted turkey tacos are unique and demand to be enjoyed at least once. The steak sandwich, churros, chicken tortilla soup and variety of breakfast options are equally as impressive.
Top review
OpenTable Diner
Dined on May 25, 2025
We had a great time, beautiful view, and friendly attentive service.
4.1 (341)
$30 and under
American
Old Town
Far too many eateries in San Diego focus on a single type of fare, but the Cosmopolitan Restaurant strives to provide a selection that's honest to what made Old Town what it is today. This means a menu that offers a variety of dishes that include fresh seafood, American grill classics and Mexican favorites. The menu is updated throughout the year and features grilled fish tacos, herb crusted pork chops, puff pastry pies and many more delicacies. The old-school design, artwork and décor resembles nice hotels in the Wild West, but the menu and ambiance is anything but rough and rowdy.
Top review
Andrea
Dined on May 11, 2025
Amazing Mothers Day brunch. Thank you! Will do it again.
Far too many eateries in San Diego focus on a single type of fare, but the Cosmopolitan Restaurant strives to provide a selection that's honest to what made Old Town what it is today. This means a menu that offers a variety of dishes that include fresh seafood, American grill classics and Mexican favorites. The menu is updated throughout the year and features grilled fish tacos, herb crusted pork chops, puff pastry pies and many more delicacies. The old-school design, artwork and décor resembles nice hotels in the Wild West, but the menu and ambiance is anything but rough and rowdy.
Top review
Andrea
Dined on May 11, 2025
Amazing Mothers Day brunch. Thank you! Will do it again.
4.8 (3033)
$30 and under
Italian
Mission Hills
Reclaimed windows and shutters, exposed brick, vintage artwork and farm décor give The Red Door an old-school appeal that many locals seek out after dealing with the bustle and hustle of San Diego. Their menu offerings include eggplant parmesan, lamb burgers, handcrafted pastas, seared scallops and a variety of other popular Italian comfort foods. And while it seems an eatery that promises the best in Italian cuisine may not offer the best tacos in San Diego, their Catalina Offshore Fish Tacos are certainly in the running.
Top review
Jane
Dined 1 day ago
Our party of 6 enjoyed impeccable service and personalized attention by owner/chef Luciano. Appetizers, salad and main courses were fabulous with generous portions and superior ingredients. A truly enjoyable dinner!
Reclaimed windows and shutters, exposed brick, vintage artwork and farm décor give The Red Door an old-school appeal that many locals seek out after dealing with the bustle and hustle of San Diego. Their menu offerings include eggplant parmesan, lamb burgers, handcrafted pastas, seared scallops and a variety of other popular Italian comfort foods. And while it seems an eatery that promises the best in Italian cuisine may not offer the best tacos in San Diego, their Catalina Offshore Fish Tacos are certainly in the running.
Top review
Jane
Dined 1 day ago
Our party of 6 enjoyed impeccable service and personalized attention by owner/chef Luciano. Appetizers, salad and main courses were fabulous with generous portions and superior ingredients. A truly enjoyable dinner!
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