Guide to the Best Taco Shops in San Diego
If you’re looking for a true cultural and culinary experience during your vacation in San Diego, you are definitely going to want to check out the local taco scene and take advantage of the delicious offerings from our unique San Diego taco shops.
We asked the team members here at The Dana for their “go-to” taco spots in San Diego, and we’ve shared their favorites along with some of the other popular San Diego taco shops for you to explore during your stay at our Mission Bay hotel.
Mission Baja Tacos (Local Favorite) 2.0 Miles from Hotel
For the ultimate seaside taco escape, head to Mission Baja Tacos. Serving up some of the best tacos in San Diego, this beachside establishment is known for their Birria Tacos, El Pastor Tacos, and Lettuce Wrap Tacos. They also deliver to The Dana on Mission Bay, which makes them a great choice when you want tacos in a jiffy! Enjoy these amazing tacos and a side dish of tradition from their family recipes passed down through generations. Great food with an excellent location, cool beach vibe, and local delivery make Mission Baja Tacos one of the most popular San Diego taco shops.
Puesto (Liliana, Sales Admin's Pick) 4.9 Miles to Hotel
Known for their blue corn tortillas and creative taco offerings, Puesto is often on the list of best taco shops in San Diego. This family-owned establishment offers multiple San Diego locations, including one in Petco Park as well as the one in Mission Valley, which is the closest to The Dana. Puesto has a variety of taco choices, from innovative flavors to treasured family traditions that are handed down from generation to generation. Try their award-winning Mexico City-style tacos, margaritas, and a cold Mexican lager from their onsite brewery!
The Taco Stand (Carolina, Front Desk Agent's Pick) 6.7 Miles to Hotel
Serving up some of the best tacos in San Diego, The Taco Stand offers a quick, delicious bite to eat in a casual environment, and they have lots of loyal fans. Inspired by Tijuana's bustling taco stands, the first Taco Stand was founded in San Diego in 2013. The Taco Stand has several California locations, with the B Street location being the closest to The Dana. They offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and your choice of traditional tacos or those with a twist, including Baja Tacos, Mushroom Tacos, Nopal Tacos with cactus, and more at one of the most popular local San Diego taco shops.
Tacos El Gordo (Local Favorite) 7.4 Miles to Hotel
This highly popular taco establishment offers several San Diego locations and is open late, which makes them popular with night owls! In business for over 40 years, Tacos El Gordo is known for offering an authentic Tijuana taco experience and some of the best tacos in San Diego, featuring handmade corn tortillas, made-from-scratch salsas, and fresh guacamole daily. When dining at Tacos El Gordo, you must try their specialty, Adobada tacos, which are made from spiced pork on a corn tortilla. Also popular at this San Diego taco shop are the Suadero tacos, using delicious brisket along with fresh toppings for a cultural treat!
Lolita’s (James, Guest Services Supervisor's pick) 11.0 Miles to Hotel
Consistently named as one of the best taco shops in San Diego, Lolita’s is passionate about serving delicious, authentic Mexican food from Señor Joaquin’s decades of culinary experience, with a touch of innovation from his children. They use only the highest quality, locally sourced ingredients for their tacos. From the Carne Asada and Grilled Shrimp Tacos to the unique and delicious Potato Taco and the ever-popular Carne Asada Fries, Lolita’s is the perfect place for tacos in San Diego. This popular taco shop has several locations, including one near the San Diego stadiums, making it a great choice for grabbing your favorite tacos before or after a game or event.
These locally-owned restaurants offer some of the best tacos in San Diego in a variety of regional styles and are definitely worth a visit during your stay at The Dana on Mission Bay.
Enjoy the Best Tacos in San Diego & Stay at the Dana on Mission Bay
Whether you’re visiting for a culinary tour of the best taco shops in San Diego or want to spend some downtime in the California sunshine in our coastal paradise, The Dana on Mission Bay is the perfect place to stay. Not only will you be close to all the best taco purveyors in the city, but you’ll also experience resort-style amenities, pet-friendly accommodations, amazing views, and the best hotel in San Diego. Our near-perfect waterfront location is a great escape and offers everything you need for the perfect beach getaway. Don't forget to stop by our own on-site restaurant to savor fresh, flavor-packed tacos with a coastal twist at Firefly Eatery & Bar — perfect for pairing with bay views and a cold drink.
Book your stay at The Dana on Mission Bay today for an unforgettable vacation (and the best tacos) in San Diego you won’t soon forget! Plan your escape today with these Special Packages and offers to help you save!
