Restaurant Spotlight: The Taco Stand La Jolla

When the craving for Mexican food strikes, many La Jollans head straight for The Taco Stand. It’s inspired by the taco stands of Tijuana and wildly popular for tacos, burritos, carne asada fries, quesadillas, churros, paletas, and imported cervezas. The line out the door speaks to the quality and taste of the food… a true compliment in a town full of tacos.

Need to Know

Neighborhood: La Jolla

Cuisine: Mexican

Price Range: $

Meals Served: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Kids’ Menu: No

Pet-Friendly: No

Dress Code: Casual

Ocean View: No

Outdoor Seating: Yes

Private Dining: No

Takeaway: Yes

Delivery: Yes via Doordash

Gluten-Free Options: Yes

Parking: Street parking

Reservations Accepted: No

What to Order at The Taco Stand La Jolla

The thing to know about The Taco Stand is that it’s all about fresh ingredients including grade meats. Tortillas are made by hand in the shop daily. Guacamoles and salsas are also prepared from scratch daily.

LJM tip: We’ve eaten nearly everything on the menu and haven’t been disappointed.

While one can never go wrong with a Carne Asada Taco, a fan favorite is the Al Pastor taco with rotisserie marinated pork, cilantro, onions, cilantro sauce, and pineapple.

A great vegetarian option is the Nopal Taco with flamed grilled cactus, melted cheese, cilantro sauce, tomato, and avocado.

The California Burrito is stuffed full of flame-grilled 100% certified Angus Steak, mixed with cheese, fries, guacamole, tomato, salsa, and sour cream.

Try the Corn on the Cob prepared Mexican street style with mayonnaise, parmesan cheese and chili powder (some kids we know omit the chili powder).

Kids tend to order the gigantic Cheese Quesadilla. It’s delicious so don’t worry about the size as you won’t be able to resist taking a bite or two. They also like the fresh Churros and all-natural, locally-made Paletas as well.

What It’s Like Inside

This bustling taqueria is always filled with hungry customers. Grab a seat at one of the tables and chairs, or next to the salsa bar to garnish your taco with all the fixings.

It isn’t uncommon to see a line out the door. Be patient, the wait is worth it.

Enjoy your pick of hot sauces from a wide selection from not so hot to get the fire extinguisher. 

Make your food uniquely yours with the Taco Stand’s fresh sauce bar. The pickled onions are delicious.

Seating on the inside is limited (slightly more than what is pictured below) and there are a handful of places to sit outside. Go on the early side of meal times to avoid the rush. Don’t plan to linger too long as someone is probably waiting for your seat.

The Taco Stand La Jolla

621 Pearl St,
San Diego, California 92037
(858) 551-6666

www.letstaco.com

Photos are courtesy of The Taco Stand