Discover Encinitas' top Mexican restaurants through Restaurantji's lens.
““Everybody” told me to go to the Taco Stand, I’ve passed the line in La Jolla multiple times and said, “I heard that taco place is good.” How many times do you have to be told??? Alex swears by the Al Pastor, being vegan I went with the mushroom taco and a mushroom burrito, a bit excessive. The tacos are delicious, the mushrooms are slathered in a roasted herb blend that makes them feel meaty. Be prepared to wait, there are plenty of signs encouraging you to be patient and the food will be made fresh for you. The atmosphere is casual and the salsas are good. There is so much to enjoy about a Sure Thing.“
“Been coming here since high school (15+ years now). Even though the name got an update, the food is just as good as always. I’ve been getting the Justin burrito every time and it never disappoints. Plus, the people there are awesome (especially Pavlos himself ??)“
“Gabriella and Lorina are the absolute best. We were visiting from out of town and where we live. We cannot find birrieria tacos with Consume. When I called they were very friendly. So full of information and when I got there. They were so extremely kind. I was over the top excited and that did not faze them lol We also got beans and rice with them. And I'm not kidding. I'm a talker and I did not say a word while eating. I made tons of noisesthough lol If your reading this review I would travel out of state to come here. Great food, great presentation and actually a large amount. I was extremely pleased. And I am going back and again. I don't live in that town or city at all. I have to travel almost 3 hours to get there and I'm going to do that.“
“Tucked away in an unassuming strip mall off the 101 is one of San Diego’s culinary jewels. A refreshing take on coastal Mexican set in a tastefully brooding atmosphere.Multidimensional, refreshing and just plain delicious this is a worthy contender for any Friday or Saturday night.Simply put, come and eat. It wont disappoint.“
“I've been coming to Raul's since I lived down the street from them as a child, I've moved away since then, but I make it a point to have lunch here whenever I find myself near Encinitas.Their beef taquitos with cheese and guacamole are my ultimate comfort food and taste the same as they did over 20 years ago - delicious and crispy.“
“The best fish tacos! Double wrapped soft tortillas so they don't sock through like so many other tacos! Fresh lime wedge and tasty sauce with cabbage. Big portions too, not some dinky little taco. Fresh salsas too. Price is the best anywhere! Cheaper than Mexico!“
“We had dinner at Cocina De Barrio. The ambience is very lively and loud but one would expect that from most restaurants. What was not expected was the cuisine. I use the word cuisine because the food is amazing. The presentation and preparation remind me of some Michelin star restaurants I've been to in San Diego. The staff is very knowledgeable regarding all the menu items and the many bar offerings. The staff was also very attentive without being overbearing. I'm still thinking about the guacamole dip made at our table. I highly recommend eating here. I know we will be back soon.“
“Ordered the breakfast burrito and the california burrito. Large, fresh, flavorful. Great authentic tortillas and fresh salsa. Restaurant was clean and the staff were helpful in pointing out the specialties. They seemed to take pride in their food and their establishment. Will definitely go back.“
“Part of the Roberto's empire. Been going to several of them for years, and all were and are still banging. Their new-ish app is great, it lets you enter any custom requests, as well as several preset options. Oh, and the Chile Verde burrito is BACK!Vegetarian options: In person, you can customize your order as needed. With the app you can as well. My wife has multiple food allergies, so when we order online she gets a large tortilla, whole pinto beans/no cheese, and rice. She then adds some other stuff from our fridge and has a semi-custom/self-made burrito! The rest of us aren't strict vegetarians, but customizing orders happens frequently.Dietary restrictions: See above about dietary restrictions. They're pretty flexible.Parking: They have a few spots right in front, but if people are choosing to eat there, then it can get crowded. You can park a ways down PCH and walk down; helps build your appetite. That all said, it's rare when I can't find a spot.“
“Really cool spot off the beaten path. You would never guess such a tastey treat would be hidden inside a random shopping center, but here it is! I had the shrimp tacos with the slaw, and it hit the spot. I feel great right now! It is a healthier alternative as well. The service was friendly and fun, and on top of it. Fast with no quailty lost. Will be back!!!“
“This is my favorite Taco Shop. Don’t come here for the service or atmosphere. But if you want the best carne asada burrito, this IS the place. Large, tasty and filled with carne asada. It’s my go to and have not eaten anything else here.Parking: Lot in back holds about 7 cars.“
“Very good place, only the shipping one is very special, he is a man, of course, he does not answer quickly, he talks a lot on the phone and is very angry about everything, he is annoying before, he was a great service in shipping to ladies and the ladies are very kind, that man is not I'm sorry, I'm sorry, but I had to say the store was all very well.“
“Suuuuper Overpriced for what you get. I had the steak frites and it was tiny steak cut and had a lot of sinew for $32. Drink prices were pretty high too for only ok quality. Other entrees and salad were good but again off the mark for the price. Very friendly and accommodating staff, awesome people. Live music was cool but super loud so if you wanna have dinner with the big music inside is the place to be, otherwise don’t sit inside…consider a table outside or in an area away from the band or you won’t even be able to talk to/hear one another.“
“Wow...simply wow. 1st time here and tried the Moonlight crunch burrito. That thing is HUGE. Easily 3 meals. Also, I had to try the surf & turf fries. Be sure you have a friend to share with. Again, HUGE. The wife had one fish & one shrimp taco. Highly recommend this place. We will return.“
“Just moved to Encinitas been all around town looking for a taco place could not find one that satisfied me went to jorge’s and I’m telling you it was the best Carne Asada pork and chicken tacos that I’ve had. I’ll be back in a couple days to try the rice and “
“Went to grab a burrito today and was serviced by a very nice and friendly lady named Rocio who worked there. She did such a wonderful job. You could tell she really likes working there and to interact with customers. She had a smile for everyone that came in. It was a great start into my day! Thank you, Rocio! :) PS: The burrito was great as well! Hit the spot!“
“only gave atmosphere 3 stars because it was only my first time buying there and it was a take out. I'll have to try and dine in there one of these days and only then I can probably give 5 stars? I love their salsa though! Service was good the cashier was nice and welcoming. also since it was my first time, there was no seat available to sit to wait for the order wince it was packed so I didn't know where to stand or wait? I was just everywhere but then again, first time.. I'll get used to it?“
“Iconic. Almost always excellent. I love the tradition of having eaten here for many years. I liked it more pre-pandemic when they offered weekday lunch specials. Prices have gone up, as they have everywhere. Still, reasonable prices compared to other restaurants. I appreciate the eclectic Mexican decor. Decent service.“
“Great restaurant! Beautiful location; the food is delicious. There's lots of options to choose from. The staff is very friendly, prompt and helpful. The best time to go about an hour before sunset!Parking: Plenty of parking on weekdays... definitely more difficult on the weekend.“
“A group of 6 of us went there for ther first time. Ordered menudo, machaca, carnitas, breakfast burrito, among other items. All was fresh, tasty and generously portioned. The salsa bar had a great selection of mild to spicy salsas, condiments as well and pickled carrots and onions.Not a fancy restaurant, but clean and comfortable.Most of us had leftovers to take home!“
“This is a lovely little take away with good inside seating. The people working the restaurant are friendly and smile a lot. The chef is excellent, the food is delicious.Had the Birria tacos, huge serving of birria inside. The Cotixan Fries, absolutely delicious heaped full of meat, spices, pico de gallo, guac and sour cream on a bed of fries. Huge portion. Next time had the birria taco again with the carnitas quesadilla. Again huge portion, absolutely spot on. Highly recommend this place.“
“The food is delicious. Extremely reasonable considering prices everywhere else. Our meals were hot, arrived quickly, were almost overly generous, well spiced, with extra sauces on the side. We enjoyed 4 different meals over 2 days. Had to go back because the first time was so good. One day lunch the next breakfast. The second time did not disappoint. We stuffed ourselves and still had leftovers. There is parking, rare in beach cities, inside and outside seating.“
“Hands down the best California burrito I have ever had. The meat is so tender and flavorful. You can tell it's super high-quality. The tater tots are a fun substitute for french fries and I actually like them better. My biggest complaint is the size of the burrito... I wish I had more!!! It is delicious. It's on the pricey side at $17 and with tax it's almost $20 for a burrito which seems/is outrageous but it is literally the best Cali burrito I've ever had.The salsa work, but the burrito is heavenly. Do yourself a favor and try one. It's definitely a special treat.“
“Wow! This place is fantastic! The atmosphere is the perfect combination of beach casual, family friendly and still conveys that you are in for a treat. Fast and very friendly service made us feel right at home. Great drink selection both nonalcoholic and alcoholic. Now onto the tacos, I can't wait to go back! The grass-fed beef taco is heavenly perfection. Tender beef and so flavorful with the caramelized onions and cream making a magical sauce. The Cousteau fish taco was so fresh with the mango and cilantro adding to the simple and yet delicious taco. We saw a couple other menu items come out of the kitchen when we were there and I can't wait to try them all! Allergy and dietary concerns friendly for all. Parking lot in the back. Enjoy!“