As a Southern California native, I can confidently say that we love our tacos. SoCal is home to probably thousands of taquerias, and this abundance has raised the bar on what a taco is and what a taco can be.
Tacos are one of my favorite foods in the entire world–and it’s for good reasons. Tacos aren’t too filling, so you can have several. This means you are able to try different mouth-watering proteins easily. Many times the tortillas are house made from scratch–and you can really taste the difference. Each topping is usually different; sometimes it’s a citrusy, peppery cabbage, other times it’s guacamole and queso blanco, or pineapple chunks, or chipotle creme. Every taco is like its own little universe of flavor, and by flavor, I mean magic. Plus, tacos usually come with a lime wedge on the side, and I’m all about the acidic flavors (and of course vitamin C!).
From classic street tacos to creative fusion varieties, there’s no shortage of delicious options in the area. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, no trip to SoCal is complete without trying some of the best tacos the region has to offer. Here are some of my favorite spots for authentic, mouthwatering tacos that are sure to satisfy any craving.
Taco Loco
Taco Loco serves up fresh and healthy Mexican fare. Their menu features a variety of tacos, including vegan and gluten-free options. They are known for their fish tacos and also have delicious chicken, carne asada, and shrimp options. Back in the day Taco Loco was the best place to get blackened tofu and mushroom nachos or tacos, and I wasn’t even vegan. They were just that good. Whether you are vegan, vegetarian or a meat eater, you will back for more.
Laguna Beach: 640 S. Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach
Wahoo’s Fish Taco
While Wahoo’s Fish Taco has made its way to different parts of the country, this popular chain got its start in Orange County in the city of Costa Mesa. In 1988, Wahoo’s opened up its first location on Placentia St., and the amazing thing this location is still there. Wahoo’s is known for it’s healthy, fresh Baja-California style menu that has a tinge of surfer, Hawaiian vibes. Their menu features delicious tacos, burritos, salads, bowls, nachos and more in a variety of meat options, including fish, shrimp, chicken, carne asada, carnitas and more. They also have vegetarian options like tofu tacos and a “keto bowl” for those watching their carb intake. I love the shrimp tacos with citrus slaw, and their black beans and white rice is a delicious side you do not want to miss. Their pico de gallo salsa is a must with their chips. Get a large.
So many locations to choose from. Here is where it all started:
Costa Mesa: 1862 Placentia Ave, Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Tacos El Gordo
Known for their authentic Tijuana-style tacos, Tacos El Gordo has several locations in Southern California. It’s true that these are not typical SoCal style tacos with all the chipotle cream, the citrusy slaw and the slice of avocado. These are the real deal Tijuana-style, like street tacos (before street tacos became popular.) Their menu includes a variety of meats, many of which are shaved off a vertical spit, including adobada (marinated pork), carne asada (grilled beef), and pollo asado (grilled chicken), but they also have vegetarian options like grilled cactus. One of the tacos I got had both meat and the grilled cactus. It was seriously delicious!
Chula Vista: 689 H St, Chula Vista, CA 91910
National City: 1430 E Plaza Blvd, National City, CA 91950
San Diego: 3265 Palm Ave, San Diego, CA 92154
Taco Mesa
With several locations throughout Orange County, Taco Mesa is known for their healthy and fresh menu. Their menu is loaded with a variety of options, and their tacos have always been a main stay. Featuring a variety of meats, including pollo asado, carnitas, salmon, lobster, pastor, and barbacoa, as well as vegetarian options like grilled vegetables and vegan “meat,” they also offer gluten-free and keto-friendly options. They have an assortment of breakfast tacos too. And their corn tortillas are made with GMO-free corn. Taco Mesa brings healthy Mexican to a new level.
Costa Mesa: 647 W. 19th St, Costa Mesa, CA, 92627
Mission Viejo: 22922 Los Alisos, Mission Viejo, CA, 92691
Ladera Ranch: 27702 Crown Valley Parkway, Ladera Ranch, CA, 92694
Karina’s Ceviches & More
Maybe you come for the ceviche, but you stay for the tacos. Karina’s has several locations, including some restaurants, a cantina, and the one I have been to is all outdoor seating. The casual spot on India Street is known for its fresh and flavorful seafood dishes, particularly its ceviches which are made to order with the freshest ingredients. In my opinion the best part of their menu are its large selection of tacos and tostadas filled with shrimp, lobster, seared ahi, salmon, carnitas, octopus, fish, and more. They basically robbed the ocean, and I’m not sorry about it. The restaurant has a laid-back atmosphere with outdoor seating perfect for a sunny day in San Diego. I want to go back already.
Multiple locations:
Mission Hills: 3731 India Street San Diego, CA 92103
Encinitas: 916 N Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
Barrio Logan: 1852 National Ave, San Diego, CA 92113
Karina’s Cantina: Gaslamp Quarter, 755 5th Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101
Casero Taqueria
Casero has both beautiful ambience and refreshing taste which together make for a great dining experience. The family-owned restaurant in Carlsbad uses high-quality ingredients and makes everything from scratch, from their salsa to their tortillas. You can actually see them making the tortillas when you first walk in. They have an assortment of delicious meats including traditional carne asada, al pastor, and pollo asado tacos, fish and shrimp, as well as vegetarian and vegan options. Their beans and rice are also delicious, and their chips are dynamite.
Carlsbad: 2674 Gateway Rd #195, Carlsbad, CA 92009
Taqueria La Mexicana
Taqueria La Mexicana is a popular spot among locals and visitors for authentic Mexican food in Long Beach. The restaurant has a casual and welcoming atmosphere, with brightly colored walls and simple decor. Their menu features a variety of tacos, burritos, and other classic Mexican dishes, all made with fresh and high-quality ingredients. Their meat options include carne asada, al pastor, and carnitas, all cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. They also offer vegetarian options. The prices are affordable, and the portions are generous.
Long Beach: 3270 E 4th St, Long Beach, CA 90814
Lola’s Mexican Cuisine
Lola’s Mexican Cuisine is a vibrant restaurant located in Long Beach, California that offers authentic Mexican cuisine. The atmosphere is lively and colorful, with a warm and welcoming feel. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients in their dishes, which include traditional Mexican favorites like tacos, enchiladas, and tamales. They also have a great selection of margaritas and other specialty drinks. Lola’s is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, with friendly service and delicious food. It’s a great place to enjoy a fun and festive night out with family and friends.
Bixby Knolls, 4140 Atlantic Ave, Long Beach, CA 90807
Retro Row, 2030 E 4th St Long Beach, CA 90814