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Restaurant list

Taco-bout Tasty Tacos in San Diego

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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 (654)
$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
Anne
Dined 6 days ago
Everything was ok. Food was more elevated Mexican bar food than anything super special. Tasty drinks, Good service. The place needs some repair here and there. But it was ok. Probabaly won't go back.
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
Anne
Dined 6 days ago
Everything was ok. Food was more elevated Mexican bar food than anything super special. Tasty drinks, Good service. The place needs some repair here and there. But it was ok. Probabaly won't go back.
Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Fashion Valley
4.7 (573)
$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
RobbinVIP
Dined 5 days ago
Great experience! Really nice to our dogs! Fantastic service!
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
RobbinVIP
Dined 5 days ago
Great experience! Really nice to our dogs! Fantastic service!
Madison
4.5 (3128)
$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
kathy
Dined 5 days ago
Shares of skirt steak was great, ahi tartare was little more tomato than ahi, but very nice - both small. We had cioppino, ravioli and ossobuco, all very nice. Got in on time, waiter was attentive and seating was comfortable. They also made it special for our birthday guy with sparkler dessert. It's very a pretty place, so wanted to sit inside, but might recommend outside, if you want a conversation as it was really loud inside. Will be back - but on the outside.
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
kathy
Dined 5 days ago
Shares of skirt steak was great, ahi tartare was little more tomato than ahi, but very nice - both small. We had cioppino, ravioli and ossobuco, all very nice. Got in on time, waiter was attentive and seating was comfortable. They also made it special for our birthday guy with sparkler dessert. It's very a pretty place, so wanted to sit inside, but might recommend outside, if you want a conversation as it was really loud inside. Will be back - but on the outside.
Seasons 52 - San Diego - UTC
4.8 (5108)
$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
Terri
Dined 1 day ago
Our food and wine were exceptional and the wait staff was friendly and helpful. The venue is perfect for a casual dinner with friends or a more formal occasion. We give it an A+.
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
Terri
Dined 1 day ago
Our food and wine were exceptional and the wait staff was friendly and helpful. The venue is perfect for a casual dinner with friends or a more formal occasion. We give it an A+.
NM Café at Neiman Marcus – San Diego
5 (345)
$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
AutumnVIP
Dined 2 days ago
Great food and service! the special touches really add the the experience, thanks so much for giving me and my guest such a memorable experience.
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
AutumnVIP
Dined 2 days ago
Great food and service! the special touches really add the the experience, thanks so much for giving me and my guest such a memorable experience.
Farmer's Bottega Restaurant
4.8 (1661)
$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
Morey
Dined 1 day ago
only complaint is that the music being played made the already loud noise level worse.
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
Morey
Dined 1 day ago
only complaint is that the music being played made the already loud noise level worse.
RED O Taste of Mexico - La Jolla
4.4 (2780)
$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
Rodney
Dined on Apr 30, 2025
Excellent food!! Great menu with plenty of good choices.
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
Rodney
Dined on Apr 30, 2025
Excellent food!! Great menu with plenty of good choices.
Bazille - Nordstrom University Town Center
4.8 (193)
$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
AntoniaVIP
Dined on Apr 13, 2025
The service is always perfect. Friendliest people working at here.
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
AntoniaVIP
Dined on Apr 13, 2025
The service is always perfect. Friendliest people working at here.
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 3 days ago
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 3 days ago
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
4.6 (1343)
$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
Christine
Dined 5 days ago
Fantastic staff and great food. Highly recommend stopping by for brunch and unlimited mimosas 🥂
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
Christine
Dined 5 days ago
Fantastic staff and great food. Highly recommend stopping by for brunch and unlimited mimosas 🥂
Trust Restaurant
4.8 (1163)
$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
SusieVIP
Dined 2 days ago
One of the best meals we've ever had. Not a single bite was missing flavor, texture, or nuance. The brisket and crudo cannot be missed, and be sure to add the cauliflower and carrots. An unforgettable experience supported by outstanding service.
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
SusieVIP
Dined 2 days ago
One of the best meals we've ever had. Not a single bite was missing flavor, texture, or nuance. The brisket and crudo cannot be missed, and be sure to add the cauliflower and carrots. An unforgettable experience supported by outstanding service.
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 2 days ago
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 2 days ago
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 4 days ago
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 4 days ago
Great view and awesome food. Free parking a plus in the heart of Old Town.
Cosmopolitan Restaurant
4 (340)
$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
Jill
Dined on Nov 28, 2024
I love this place! The people are exceptional and the food was remarkable. They made our thanksgiving holiday so pleasant!!
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
Jill
Dined on Nov 28, 2024
I love this place! The people are exceptional and the food was remarkable. They made our thanksgiving holiday so pleasant!!
The Red Door
4.8 (3027)
$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
Kimberly
Dined 6 days ago
Everything was wonderful, the food was delicious, we had the seabass risotto- best ever! Our server was excellent, Robin made a lot of great recommendations and took very good care of us- we will definitely be back
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
Kimberly
Dined 6 days ago
Everything was wonderful, the food was delicious, we had the seabass risotto- best ever! Our server was excellent, Robin made a lot of great recommendations and took very good care of us- we will definitely be back

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