Top Ten San Diego Street Tacos

San Diego is only a mere thirty minute drive north of the Mexican border, which makes it understandable why the cultural influences are so strongly presented here in Southern California. The best part of the crossover? Hands down, every local will agree that Mexican food has become prominently, and properly, introduced into their diets.

Mexican food is known for it’s cheap prices, original spices and fresh ingredients. The street taco is classic Tijuana fare that has been dolled up during its transition into the United States. Usually inexpensive, street tacos consist of small corn tortillas and only a few minor ingredients to keep them quick, simple and delicious. Some local taco shops have even upped the ante by making gourmet versions of the meal, turning this sobering snack into a filling entree.

Discover these ten best street tacos get a serious taste from south of the border.

Cantina Mayahuel in University Heights 

Cantina Mayahuel is a very calm, relaxed restaurant that looks more like a yoga studio from the outset. Since looks can be deceiving, Oddly enough, tranquility and inner happiness can be easily found within its fantastic selection of inspired street tacos. To learn more about this wonderful local eatery, visit Cantina Mayahuel.

Senor El Taquero in Gaslamp Quarter 

Nearly unmarked, this Downtown San Diego location serves us delicious street tacos to the late night crowd. Senor also delivers, making it one of the only Mexican places in the city with such a service. Next time you’re walking down Broadway, keep an eye out for the friendly guy in the green shirt.

Barrio Star in Banker’s Hill 

A healthier tasting Mexican fare is becoming all the rage in San Diego’s Banker’s Hill neighborhood. Gourmet street tacos are sold in colorful sets, making for a gorgeous presentation when bunched together on a plate. Indulge yourself without dealing with the pesky guilt. Check out what’s in store for you at Barrio Star.

El Guero Taco Shop in San Ysidro 

It is only a stones throw away from the Mexican border and the authenticity of its street tacos can prove it. Street tacos cost barely over a buck, which can make for a great addition to any meal or as a plentiful snack on their own.

El Camino Super Cocina in Little Italy 

Not only does this place pop with style, but its tacos will sway the minds of even the most uptight guest. Street tacos are accompanied by a colorful array of sauces, each bringing out a different flavor making for a unique taste. Find out more about this fabulous El Camino Super Cocina.

El Ranchero Taco Shop in Otay Mesa 

Every bit as authentic as any street taco in San Diego, El Ranchero is proud to serve the rarely seen but always enjoyed fish taco. The high point of the taco is that they do it right, with real fish and for under a dollar. Just because the fish tacos are great, doesn’t mean you can’t venuture out and explore the rest of the menu.

Broken Border Bar & Grill in East Village 

Just a few minutes away from Petco Park is one of the cities hidden gems. Broken Border has been serving lunch to local workers and serving as a haven to them after their shift is over. The serving sizes are fair and the eats are much cheaper then the surrounding restaurants for a really budget-friendly yet high quality meal. With three tacos for five bucks, why not try them all.

La Puerta in Gaslamp Quarter  

Strong drinks named after famous rock socks compliment its generously portioned street tacos. Packed with flavor, La Puerta’s street tacos know how to fill up its fans without making off with their wallet. Tacos even seem to get better with a few extra drinks from La Puerta’s famous cocktail and beer selection. For more information, visit La Puerta.

Tacos El Gordo in Chula Vista 

While this modest drive-thrusure seems unconvincing, Tacos El Gordo chooses to let the food speak for itself. A wide variety of street tacos are available, with the meat being freshly cut off of giant, rotating slabs in the back. Do not miss out on its spicy carnitas.

Cocteleria La Playita in Clairemont 

Specializing in authentic street tacos with fresh from the sea ingredients, Cocteleria La Playita knows how to do seafood right. The Gobernador is a personal favorite, which is spicy shrimp cooked with red peppers and cheese. Check out the rest of the menu to this Clairemont taco shop at laplayaseafood.com.

Are we still missing one? Leave a comment below to share your favorite San Diego street tacos with us. 

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