El Charro Taco Shop

Elizabeth greeted me with a smile and was very kind when taking my order, after ordering i was immediately given my horchata and went to sit down at a table. the atmosphere was very welcoming and pleasant, after a few minutes she brought out my tacos witch were very fresh and a great portion for the price! each taco was completely full of meat, cilantro and onions, and was perfectly filling. the hot sauce and salsas were also very good, they had mild, medium, and hot with great flavor and spice level. elizabeth checked in to make sure everything was good and it definitely was, after i ate me and her had a kind conversation about the food and my experience witch was really nice. i left in a better mood then i arrived in, over all a super solid taco shop with great people, a friendly environment and really good food, i will be coming back again! 10/10

Showed up to two open signs on the door; one electronically lit and the other non electronic. The door was locked and another customer waiting outside for it to open. No one ever came to open the door. This place is trash. Do not waste any of your valuable time waiting outside for these trash people that seem to not care about any of their potential customers. Either turn off your open sign and flip the other one to “closed” or just shut down your business altogether. Don’t play with my time or food. I could’ve been fed already but instead I’m hangry posting about these inconsiderate taco shop people. 😠😤

I had the BEST experience ever here. I’m such a picky eater, but this restaurant allows you to pick whatever ingredients you want and put it together in a bowl for you. They made it happen for food that doesn’t really go together without a problem. The customer service goes above and beyond anything I ever experienced. The portion size is huge and for a good price. I have zero complaints about this place. If I lived in town, I would visit more often. I highly recommend you go. You will be pleased and well fed whether you are picky or not.

The best fast food Mexican restaurant in town! Great service, great food, lots of specials, and friendly staff. What more could you ask for!!?? I consider myself to be of higher intellect so believe me when I say that absolutely nothing beats el charro taco shop!! In all seriousness though my husband and i love this place so we need to stand together and stop the hate!! I'd drive 3 hours for this if I had too…

This little place is amazing. I finally tried out this little kind of a hole in the wall taco shop and as soon as I came in I was greeted by the sweetest girl, I told her it was my first time there and she was so happy for me to try the food. I ordered the surf and turf burrito which was $14.50. The burrito was a very good size and filled with flavorful tender meat and shrimp and a bunch of other yummy goodies. The burrito was so full of flavor and also lots of love. I would come back just because of the girls sweet service but now that the food was delicious too… I’m going to tell everyone about this place. Thank you guys for the great service and delicious food.

Shout out to the only spot serving food that we could find after 1 am. Got off of a long flight and wanted some food, it was the only place open selling food. Food was quickly prepared and tasted fresh. What a life saver.

They have hands down, the BEST surf and turf burrito I’ve ever had in my life. I literally think about this burrito all the time! I honestly think it’ll be what I miss most about San Diego when we move next year! Hahahahahah

Their 2 for 1 burrito special was amazing. Some of the best food we’ve had here, amazing friendly owners who genuinely love what they do.

Loved every min there rhe food was fantastic and the staff were very friendly and nice

This past weekend, I had my first visit to El Charro. How have I not known about this place before? As a former San Diegan, I've been to numerous taco spots in the city, and this one is definitely on my top 5 list! First of all, they were open in the morning. And as a person who isn't huge into breakfast food, this place's availability was perfect! I ordered a carne asada plate. First of all, $17 for a carne asada plate in 2025? It's an amazing deal! When I saw the price, I was thinking that the portion would be a bit smaller, but it's definitely in line with all of the other taco shops I've visited in SD. The meat was seasoned well and not overcooked. The pico tasted fresh, the tortillas were hot, the guac was amazing, and the rice wasn't overcooked. If I had to pick one thing to complain about - and it's probably on me as I'm sure it's mentioned somewhere - it would would the fact that it did not come with refried beans. I'm not taking off any stars because it's probably mentioned, and I didn't see it. But my personal preference is refried beans so I was a bit disappointed that it didn't come with any. I guess I'll need to start asking ahead of time. While I don't think this is on the restaurant themselves, I will say parking in this area is trash so be aware if you decide to make the drive to El Charro. Overall, yes. I'd go again. For a $17 carne asada plate, I'll go every single time I'm back to visit SD. Also, the dude who was working was super nice. I don't know his name, but to whomever was working in the morning on 9/6? Thank you for taking care of me and ensuring my food was amazing.

Late night happenings, bring late night things. It was late, things were closed, but we were fresh off a Humphrey's high, and we were FAMISHED! Bellies touching backs, we knew we were in dire straits. MUST EAT FOOD. When all else fails, Yelp to the rescue. After a quick search, followed by intrusively sliding into some Yelp elite reviews, El Charro emerged as a viable candidate. "Lyft, bring me my steed"...and off we went. Prices were fair, salsas were fresh and spicy, and the carne asada fries were kickin' like Chun Li. Did I just find a new go-to establishment for all of my Mexican cravings??? Not quite, but this place was solidddd! If it were closer, I'd definitely frequent it more often. The carne was nicely seasoned, the fries were crispy, and that box was loaded to the brim. Thanks to El Charro 's crew for more than satisfying our late night cravings, and filling our empty gullets. Bailamos!

It was late we'd just come from the beach never been here and saw reviews thought we'd stop in. Service was quick but not friendly and food hot, I got carne asada tacos the meat was too salty for my taste. My friends got nachos big portion and they liked it. Our table by the door was grimey, after we got done my friend saw a cockroach come out from the trash across from our table and when we alerted the guy that took our order he acted like he just didn't care and we promptly left. We won't be back.

Uber eats order completely wrong. Ordered this evening (October 16) via uber eats. Ordered a bean and cheese burrito, a chile relleno burrito, and 2 bottles of water. Instead, they gave me some disgusting pork burrito, sodas instead of water, and absolutely NO SALSA. HOW DO YOU NOT PUT SALSA IN THE BAG FOR TWO BURRITOS. Order was under Eleni if the owner wants to make this right. So disappointed with what you guys gave to us tonight. I hope this doesn't happen again to any other patrons.

This is why I have trust issues. My friends and I were looking for a place to grub at 3am after the afters and saw this taco shop was highly reviewed and open 24 hours, which is probably the only thing going for it. We each got the 3 carne asada tacos that was $14.50 (almost $5 a taco wtf), and the meat was so salty and cold. The cashier also told us we couldn't sit inside since he already wiped the tables, so we had to eat on the car trunk in the parking lot. Maybe the food and service are better during the day, but we'll never know because we won't be back.

Can't stress enough how great our experience was at this restaurant mostly because the guy working (sorry I didn't get his name) was such a great host and very welcoming, very helpful and overall just a great worker. He was taking care of taking orders AND cooking. We were a big party and took care of each and every one of us. Now I want to talk about the food. Hands down best taco restaurant I've every tried. Meat was so well seasoned and delicious. We got burritos and quesadillas. Definitely coming here again

What an amazing place! Oscar is so friendly and welcoming! I would recommend ordering some carne asada fries and trying the horchata agua fresca! Definitely such a good spot and worth to try!

Such a great find yesterday! After being on the water for 2 hours, I wanted something good and quick without having to sit down for a full dining experience. When we came in we were helped immediately with the best kind of friendly neighborhood service. While chatting with the cashier, he even taught us a little Spanish to get it right--lol. We ordered a California burrito with carne asada, a fish taco, another carne asada burrito, and a pollo asada quesadilla, plus some horchata. Everything came out so fresh, delicious, and in such generous portions. I usually go to Jeff's for a burger, but I'm so glad I found this new option right across the street! There are good amount in door and outdoor seatings as well.

Love places like this! Wanted some better food than the crap they serve at Sea World so I was able to find this place and stop for a late night dinner... Staff is friendly, ordered a carne asada burrito and some rolled tacos... tortilla and meat were perfect, and the tacos were fresh, crunchy, and generous on cheese! Salsa bar was great, too Only down side was no public bathrooms and the parking lot was a little sketch with some homeless folk, but nothing crazy! Would definitely come back again to try something else

Great California burrito! Delicious salsa selection and enjoyed the horchata as well.

I was in the area and craved taco shop. I found this place on Yelp and was excited to try it. I ordered a full order of carne asada fries, and to my dismay - the fries were overcooked and almost unbearable to eat. The meat was flavorful but the fries were unpleasant.

Stoped in after a concert they had the fight on. There were a few of us a we ordered a burrito, tacos and rolled tacos. The food was in point. Highly recommend!

Insane, great food, huge portions, friendly staff and at a great price, I'm in Mexican Food Heaven!

This little place is amazing. I finally tried out this little kind of a hole in the wall taco shop and as soon as I came in I was greeted by the sweetest girl, I told her it was my first time there and she was so happy for me to try the food. I ordered the surf and turf burrito which was $14.50. The burrito was a very good size and filled with flavorful tender meat and shrimp and a bunch of other yummy goodies. The burrito was so full of flavor and lots of love. I would come back just because of the girls sweet service but now that the food was delicious too, I'm going to tell everyone to come here. Thank you guys for the great service and delicious food.

Talk about LATE NIGHT COME UP!! We were leaving a show at Humphrey's and my husband wanted tacos before heading back to our hotel for the night. This little unassuming spot is tucked into a little strip of shops. We popped in a little after midnight. We were the only customers, but the service was speedy and polite. My husband got 3 asada tacos and I got 2 fish tacos. The food was solid and I'm full! We'll definitely come back when we're in the area again!

I had the BEST experience ever here. I'm such a picky eater, but this restaurant allows you to pick whatever ingredients you want and put it together in a bowl for you. They made it happen for food that doesn't really go together without a problem, and it tasted delicious. The customer service goes above and beyond anything I ever experienced. The portion size is huge and for a good price. I have zero complaints about this place. If I lived in town, I would visit more often. I highly recommend you go. You will be pleased and well fed whether you are picky or not.

What more can I say about this place? They serve homestyle Mexican food at a great price and their owners make you feel like you are familia! Today I had the chorizo burro and let me tell you, it was ginormous & delicious! The sausage was not greasy like other places and it blended well with the potatoes, cheese and guac. As others have mentioned, the flour torts are soft, flaky and actually have flavor! This meal was enough for two. But the main reason to love this place is by the way this beautiful couple treats their patrons - not like customers but guests. Each and every time I visit, I am greeted genuinely by both the Mr. & Mrs. running the show. And this is not just a one-off. I always observe wonderfully warm interactions with everyone approaching the counter, even today I heard "it's not your fault, don't worry," as a gentleman was struggling with the credit card kiosk. Time and again these fine folks engage in authentic conversation where their goal is for you to feel welcomed. In a day and age when life brings us mostly transactional experiences after the now standard "hi, welcome in," El Charro is truly a breath of fresh air. I will be back time and again to support this lovely family and I hope that my review further inspires viewers to give them some love!!

Guacamole was ok but the fish tacos - I could not eat them because I could not tell what I was eating - it was fried something but did not taste or have texture of fish - maybe it was old frozen fish that was fried ?

The most terrible service. I specifically called in 20 mins ahead of time with our order since we had to get to the airport. The order still wasn't ready when I got there so I waited another 10 mins. I told the rep at the counter to please hurry up as I had a flight to catch. She was completely inept and kept shuffling around for stuff and asking the guy behind the counter to help. They ran out of salsa, wouldn't provide chips, and they asked for an extra $4 if using a credit card. My total for three items was $56. That's insane for a taqueria. Despite this, they charge for cc fees. When I asked to add a jarritos, it was a whopping $6. WHAT. I walked out so frustrated. ON TOP OF EVERYTHING. The food was terrible. They forgot to add beans to my child's cheese quesadilla, the fish in my taco was so overfried and soggy, the shell was falling off and there was little taste in the salad half hazardly thrown over the tacos. First time I've seen lettuce on a taco. Avoid this place :/

Super friendly, very tasty! Will come back next time in the area! Salsa bar is great. 6 stars!

Amazing breakfast burritos with great salsa and great music. Very hard to find affordable food in SD and I'm very happy this is the one we found, also the service is very chill.

Their breakfast burritos were heavenly. The vibe is authentic and every salsa was incredible. I got a chorizo burrito while everyone else in our crew tried pretty much one of everything. We couldn't snap pictures because we ate them too fast! The tortillas feel fresh made and have a wonderful flavor. The portions are generous. I'll definitely be going back.

best tacos in my opinion in the poway area. the ada's and beef taco best flavors . would recommend

This place is in fact not 24 hours. Got here around 2am and the dude said they were closed. False advertisement.

I came here randomly on a weekday a few weeks ago. I was getting my hair done nearby and omg the California burrito was so good! The girl working there was so kind she felt like a friend! I have been telling everyone I know to go try this little hidden gem!!

First, I read the reviews of El Charro Taco Shop here on Yelp. I was very hungry at 2:00 am and decided to give them a try. Called and yes they're open. Ordered Carne Asada plate. Arrived 10-minutes later, and my order was on the counter. Cost $15.00, which seemed a little high, but the order was huge and very heavy. Probably enough food for two or even three people. Consisted of steak, refried beans, and rice as usual. I immediately noticed that everything was very salty. Too salty for my taste. I did not enjoy the food, and I would not buy here again.

Asked for a carne asada burrito and was given a sour cream and guacamole (that tasted old) with a few pieces of meat. Definitely not worth the price is they're going to be stingy with their meat.

10/10 great food, perfect service the lady was really really nice and kind definitely a thumbs up. The shop is very neat and clean love this place definitely coming back. Carne asada fries really stacked good, I'm very satisfied

I asked for extra salsa in my door dash order and they gave me zero, like how are you a taco shop and not even giving salsa out with the food?

This is hands down the worst mexican food I've ever had. If you've never had any authentic mexican dishes then this might be good but the tacos were cold, the meat was bad, and the price definitely did not match the quality. If I could give this place negative stars I would but sadly I can't so 1 star will have to suffice. Would not recommend and if I never had their food again, it'd be too soon.

Rode my bike to this place on a Saturday at 1pm. Show up, there are patrons sitting at tables eating. I proceed to the counter where the guy tells me they aren't taking orders. I ask how long if I wait and he just tells me no. I get times are tough with service work but based on reviews this is recurring and they clearly aren't too motivated to solve it. I can't recommend a place that may or may not be open when I show up.

I placed an uber eats order not to long ago and was blown away by how good this food was, I had to have my family try it. By far some of the best service I have ever experienced while getting takeout. Everyone who works there was so unbelievably providing us above and beyond level service. I placed a relatively large order and the food was done in 10 minutes and tasted amazing. The portions were quite generous and delicious. I can't wait to tell all of my friends and family about this place!

The customer service and the food were amazing. Felt very homely when coming here with a good amount of the family. The lady up front was very attentive and soooo nice. God bless her

I came from FaZe Rug's video. This place has amazing vibes, people, service and tacos.

Best taco spot I've ever ate at ! I'm actually inside writing this after I ate my tacos That is how good it is LOL

My favorite Mexican restaurant in the area, heck maybe even in all of San Diego. The food is rich with flavor, and the portion sizes are large. I usually go at night, and when the music is blasting you know it's gonna be delicious. The salsas are my absolute favorite, the dark red is actually spicy! The creamy looking green one is lovely as well. It gives me a taste of what good Mexican food used to be since all my favorite old Mexican restaurants from childhood have closed down or gotten new ownership. No tourist pandering, just good flavors, and hot salsas! If anyone is visiting and wants to try what real so cal Mexican tastes like take them here!

Super friendly & serve you with a big smile ! It's our first time here , visiting from the Bay Area , we ordered the beef rolled tacos just to check , we were amaze with the portions , he puts a lot of cheese , guacamole & sour cream , it taste good & not too pricey for the amount we got in the plate , we walk out so satisfied & happy . It's a small place but not too bad for the price & food . I'll go back again if given a chance . I would check it out if you're in the area .

I noticed that they put sour cream in my Carnitas burrito. I posted about it on social media, it was universally scorched as an idea.

Really good spot well recommended brought the family out here for vacation and seen this one on yelp reviews sound good but the food taste way better and what you see on yelp music while you eat makes you feel at home

I don't usually post reviews, but this place had me talking about the carne asada burrito for hours after.

The service is amazing. 2 great gentleman with a wonderful attitude. Explained items on the menus for two new visitors. We ordered the giant 3 meat burrito. We will be back. Telling all our friends about this new find. Ambiance is throw back to Mexican style dining. Enjoy.

Great food and service. Oscar is the man. The burrito was the size of my arm and delicious. I would recommend!

omgggg i would give way more stars if i could! First off Bryan was the cashier and the cook today when i went and he was so awesome from the second i walked in! super friendly and good vibes! I literally love mexican food and eat a ton of it and id say this is the best mexican food that i have had. . so authentic and flavorful the meat was high-quality. The toppings were fresh. The beans were perfectly seasoned. All of the salsa tasted amazing. At most spots not everything is perfect but this place I'm not kidding when I say everything was a 10 out of 10, and the Jamaica Agua Fresca was amazing chart not too sweet just the right amount of sugar. This is a family owned business and they sure know what they are doing. I am so happy because I'm new to San Diego and I haven't been that impressed with the Mexican food, but now I have a new go to spot when i'm craving something to be excellent and tasty! can't wait to recommend this to people when they ask for good mexican food and friendly amazing service

Beautiful service bomb food will come back as many times as I have to ahahah loved it amazing cook Brian I think is the employees name amazing

Faze rug showed me this spot food was fantastic great price and I loved the service they need a raise fr

Came in for a chicken California burrito and they gave me carne asada, it's ok, came back the next day and they made it right. 5 stars for caring for their customers. I'll be back more and more as they made it right and were super kind.

STOP SCROLLING & JUST GO The best chicken taco I've ever had, and I've tried a lot. Super friendly, and amazing customer service. I'm from the south and it felt like southern hospitality. It's a family owned business, and I even met the owners that night. Super gracious and kind. & the food was 10/10, what more could you want??

Best tacos in San Diego without hesitation! I've had some terrible tacos, but these were bussin! Looking for an excuse to be in SD again to get these tacos!