Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
Restaurant list

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?

Tahona Bar
4.7 (657)
$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
AnnieVIP
Dined on May 11, 2025
Why does the outdoor experience feel so unwelcome??
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
AnnieVIP
Dined on May 11, 2025
Why does the outdoor experience feel so unwelcome??
Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Fashion Valley
4.7 (574)
$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
kimberly
Dined on May 10, 2025
Loved the decor of the restaurant! I don’t remember my server name but she has glasses and attended our party of 9 and she was WONDERFUL! Excellent customer service I wish I knew her name to thank her on this, will be definitely visiting back again. The nachos were 💣.COM
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
kimberly
Dined on May 10, 2025
Loved the decor of the restaurant! I don’t remember my server name but she has glasses and attended our party of 9 and she was WONDERFUL! Excellent customer service I wish I knew her name to thank her on this, will be definitely visiting back again. The nachos were 💣.COM
Madison
4.4 (3140)
$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
Frederick
Dined 3 days ago
Great.food...great service... First time customers....it definitely won't be our last time!!!
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
Frederick
Dined 3 days ago
Great.food...great service... First time customers....it definitely won't be our last time!!!
Seasons 52 - San Diego - UTC
4.7 (5122)
$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
FrancesVIP
Dined 3 days ago
Anna was our server, and gave good service overall, but my water was never replenished. I wanted, but did not get a refill and there was no one around to ask before we finished our meal. The overdone tomato flatbread was not up to its usual standard, but the soup was delicious and the lunch pricing was very resonable.
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
FrancesVIP
Dined 3 days ago
Anna was our server, and gave good service overall, but my water was never replenished. I wanted, but did not get a refill and there was no one around to ask before we finished our meal. The overdone tomato flatbread was not up to its usual standard, but the soup was delicious and the lunch pricing was very resonable.
NM Café at Neiman Marcus – San Diego
4.9 (351)
$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
SueVIP
Dined 4 days ago
Neiman Marcus Cafe is always a treat. You can't beat the popovers.
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
SueVIP
Dined 4 days ago
Neiman Marcus Cafe is always a treat. You can't beat the popovers.
Farmer's Bottega Restaurant
4.8 (1672)
$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
SusanVIP
Dined 3 days ago
Our woman server was so amazing and kind, I am so sorry that I don’t remember her name. The food was delish and we enjoyed our dinner. The meatballs and side of carrots were especially yummy as was everything else. She also gave us complimentary glasses of champagne and dessert as it was our 41st Anniversary. Many thanks to her, we had a lovely evening!
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
SusanVIP
Dined 3 days ago
Our woman server was so amazing and kind, I am so sorry that I don’t remember her name. The food was delish and we enjoyed our dinner. The meatballs and side of carrots were especially yummy as was everything else. She also gave us complimentary glasses of champagne and dessert as it was our 41st Anniversary. Many thanks to her, we had a lovely evening!
RED O Taste of Mexico - La Jolla
4.4 (2793)
$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
SandraVIP
Dined 2 days ago
Ryan, our server, was great. Food was good and we had a nice evening.
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
SandraVIP
Dined 2 days ago
Ryan, our server, was great. Food was good and we had a nice evening.
Bazille - Nordstrom University Town Center
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.
Ortega's A Mexican Bistro
4.5 (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
Sherry
Dined on May 5, 2025
Amazing food and service. We had Mahi mahi tacos and Chicken pippian. The table salsa was fresh and flavorful. Great place hiding in plain site.
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
Sherry
Dined on May 5, 2025
Amazing food and service. We had Mahi mahi tacos and Chicken pippian. The table salsa was fresh and flavorful. Great place hiding in plain site.
Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar
4.5 (1345)
$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
Emme
Dined 4 days ago
Friendly waiter, good food. High level of noise from bar area. My husband didn’t think there was alcohol in his Sangria.
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
Emme
Dined 4 days ago
Friendly waiter, good food. High level of noise from bar area. My husband didn’t think there was alcohol in his Sangria.
Trust Restaurant
4.8 (1179)
$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
Kyle
Dined 5 days ago
Enjoyable experience at Trust. I enjoyed the atmosphere and the staff were friendly.
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
Kyle
Dined 5 days ago
Enjoyable experience at Trust. I enjoyed the atmosphere and the staff were friendly.
Casa De Freds, Tacos y Tequila
4.7 (328)
$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
Jason
Dined on May 6, 2025
Great Cinco de Mayo experience . Great food and drinks with an excellent value. There was a long line, but our party of seven had a reservation which they accommodated quickly. Thanks!
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
Jason
Dined on May 6, 2025
Great Cinco de Mayo experience . Great food and drinks with an excellent value. There was a long line, but our party of seven had a reservation which they accommodated quickly. Thanks!
Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina
4 (1159)
$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
CaseyVIP
Dined on May 4, 2025
Great view and awesome food. Free parking a plus in the heart of 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
CaseyVIP
Dined on May 4, 2025
Great view and awesome food. Free parking a plus in the heart of Old Town.
Cosmopolitan Restaurant
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.
The Red Door
4.8 (3030)
$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
Bill
Dined 1 day ago
We have dined at the Red Door on a number of occasions. The food is always been fantastic. Last night we had some of the best swordfish I’ve ever had. It was served in a bed of risotto and was fresh off the boat only a few hours before..I’ve never had a meal at the Red Door that I did not really enjoy. I recommend it highly.
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
Bill
Dined 1 day ago
We have dined at the Red Door on a number of occasions. The food is always been fantastic. Last night we had some of the best swordfish I’ve ever had. It was served in a bed of risotto and was fresh off the boat only a few hours before..I’ve never had a meal at the Red Door that I did not really enjoy. I recommend it highly.

More lists for you

Explore other cities and regions
A photo of United Arab Emirates
United Arab Emirates
A photo of Dubai
Dubai
Other ways to experience the world through dining
Must Try Korean Dishes The GreatsExplore Asian-Owned and -Operated RestaurantsExplore Award-Winning Restaurants on OpenTable The Best Bars on OpenTableTKTKThe Best Restaurants for Breakfast on OpenTableThe Best Brunch RestaurantsThe Best Burgersbest cafe in town
Discover
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Our sites
Businesses
  • Delight more diners
  • Open for Business Blog
Join us on
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2025 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo