Is there a more San Diegan dish than carne asada fries?
San Diego is known for having an excellent and varied food scene. However, one particularly beloved dish amongst San Diegans is the Carne Asada Fries. This iconic dish is have everything a foodie could want!
So we decided to ask you what your favorite carne asada fries spots were, and you San Diegans sure did come through! Here are some of our all-time favorites!
1. Lolita’s Mexican Food
Lolita’s Mexican Food was your most frequent selection! This beloved institution first opened its doors back in 1984. They claim to have originated carne asada fries in the late 1990s, after a suggestion from their tortilla distributor. Lolita’s is now an all-time favorite amongst San Diegans and for good reason!
Location: 202 Park Blvd, 5120 College Avenue
2. La Puerta
La Puerta’s Sinaloan inspired recipes are mouthwatering! They take great care to only use the freshest ingredients, so it’s clear to see why their customers are so loyal. Their carne asada fries are on a half prized discount during their happy hour! What else could you want?! This is an essential spot when visiting Gaslamp!
Location: 560 4th Ave
3. Humberto’s Taco Shop
Both locals and visitors love Humberto’s Taco Shop. Located in Golden Hill, this central neighborhood is sometimes overlooked but is actually one of San Diego’s most historic and eclectic areas. Their burritos and carne asada fries are favorites amongst those in the know.
Location: 1015 25th St
4. Tacos El Gordo
Tacos El Gordo is a family-owned company with over 40 years in the industry! In 1998, Tacos El Gordo opened its first location in San Diego. Tacos El Gordo is known for its quality and authentic food. Their corn tortillas are handmade, and they use the freshest ingredients. Look at their beautiful carne asada fries! Yum!
Location: 3265 Palm Ave, San Diego, H Street, Chula Vista, Broadway, Chula Vista
5. The Taco Stand
San Diegans really love the Taco Stand! You can find The Taco Stand in its downtown locations, in Encinitas and La Jolla. Their unique fries are made up of grilled 100% Certified Angus Beef, guacamole, sour cream, and cheese! The line out the door of this spot makes a lot of sense.
Location: 642 S Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas
5. Taqueria Imperial
Taqueria imperial is a low-key, relaxed spot for those looking for an affordable and quick bite. The portions are very generous, and regulars love their carne asada fries, which are definitely sharing size!
Location: 6911 Imperial Ave
6. Cotija’s Cocina Mexicana
Cotija’s is a beloved San Diego institution. Its founder, David Ruiz, came to the United States from Mexico. In the late 1960s, he took a job in San Diego as a cook at a restaurant called Azteca Mexican Food. Until he saved enough money to open his first restaurant in 1974 in Point Loma. Cotija’s eventually grew and now has over thirty locations in San Diego.
Location: 3720 Voltaire St
7. Vallarta’s Express Mexican Eatery
Vallarta’s Express has 5 locations in California. They are open 24 hours a day, which makes them a great and reliable spot! It offers up delicious and generous portions, which leave customers coming back for more!
Location: 1375 Garnet Ave, 4277 Genesee Ave, 9313 Mira Mesa Blvd, 5341 Jackson Dr, La Mesa, CA, 2952 Harding St
Carlsbad
8. Sariata’s Taco Shop
Sarita’s Taco Shop has been around since 1992, and they have accomplished their goal “to make food so good and so filling that customers would come back again and again.” Sarita’s is also very involved with their community, and they continuously help schools in the area with fundraisers. Sarita’s in Spring Valley is open-24-hour!
Location: 9906 Campo Rd, Spring Valley
9. The Food Bowl Market And Deli
This is the local go-to spot. Food Bowl Market is one of my favorite Mexican food spots so far near downtown San Diego, which you wouldn’t guess from its exterior. Their Carne asada fries and Shrimp Burrito are a must-try!
Location: 3035 Cedar St
10. La Lomita Mexican Grill
La Lomita has loyal customers who keep coming back for the great food and even better portions! It tends to get fairly busy, but the wait is definitely worth the wait.
Location: 3100 E 8th St A, National City
11. El Azteca Taco Shop
El Azteca is a staple amongst San Diegans. It has been open for decades and turns out great and affordable food. Their Carne asada fries and breakfast burritos are a must.
Location: 8306 Parkway Dr
12. Rigoberto’s Taco Shop
Rigoberto’s taco shop is perfect for a late-night snack! Their delicious fries come in $9. This spot is beloved, particularly amongst college students, and it’s easy to see why.
Location: 1190 Garnet Ave
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