Tacos El Gordo — Restaurant in San Diego

I hade a food allergy order and to remove cheese & any thing milk based, my order of abo fries were semi corrected as in they didn't remake the food they scrapped the cheese off the food and then put avocado that was liquefied with mayonnaise and chili on top I made sure to tell them nothing with milk base can be on the food I came back a second time to just get a refund as I asked would they rather remake it again but the short semi decent looking woman with too much make up caked on replied sharply that she can not do a refund because I need to ask whats on the food. I asked several times and when I hear there is avocado on the food I assume it's avocado in its normal form not this liquid avocado mayonnaise mix on my food how am I sapposed to know that your avocado listed as an ingredient contains milk & eggs. You don't buy food at a store read that the listed ingredients in chips as wheat, olive oil and salt only to be blindsided that it meant chalk with motor oil with salt. This place needs to properly tell what is in the listed ingredients... (ingredients) if you know what I mean.... So with the woman's bad attitude telling me I need to ask, (which i did twice) next time you need to ask why you're working there with that bad attitude I was nice and polite when I asked both times only to be told "we don't do refunds" The two women proceed to give me the stink eye and look at me crazy with those Toxica eyes as I disposed of my food into the trash bin, I could see on the two cashier woman's face they wanted me to give them my already paid for food, for no reason at all as if it's some sort of freebie for one of them or the next customer to give away to.

I against my better judgment decided to give the downtown location a chance, or give this chain a chance and man could they not have dropped the ball harder. If my friend had not convinced me to waste my money in this place for a second time in my life, I could live with this chaos filled building being in downtown but this place is just taking up space that possibly a better place could open than this disaster of a food joint.

This place disappointed me heavily in 2011 in chula vista with dry tacos, dry meat and the slowest service possible at the rapid speed of a snail is the best comparison I can recall. The tacos were overhyped and continue to be to this very day. Don't bother wasting your money or your time on this place.

I don't think the 3rd time...

Tacos El Gordo is one of the most iconic taco shops, originating from Tijuana and now a staple in San Diego, especially in the Gaslamp Quarter of Downtown. Known for its authentic flavors, this place is bustling from breakfast to late-night snacks after the bars close.

The system here is unique, with two lines: one for Adobada/Al Pastor (spicy marinated pork) and the other for Carne Asada (beef), Chorizo (sausage), Lengua (beef tongue), and various beef offal. There’s also a separate window for fries, but customers must pay in advance there.

Their tacos are served with everything toppings ("todos"), which include cilantro, onions, and guacamole. The Adobada/Al Pastor tacos are a highlight, with tender, juicy, and perfectly marinated meat that’s grilled to crispy perfection on the outside without being overdone. I asked for extra pineapple slices, and the staff happily obliged. The Carne Asada tacos are another standout, with flavorful meat that pairs wonderfully with the guacamole. The Azteca Taco is the carne asada one with an extra slice of cactus, which is sour and tender. The Lengua tacos feature large slices of beef tongue, tender and satisfying, though they have a slight spiciness that might surprise some. However, the Chorizo tacos were a bit too salty for my taste.

One unique aspect of Tacos El Gordo is their tortillas, made with egg liquid. This gives the tortillas a special, slightly richer taste that sets them apart from other taco spots.

Due to its popularity, there can be long lines during peak hours, such as post-bar rush or before Padres games. Seating is limited, with a few spots outdoors along the street and some additional seating upstairs. The second-floor dining area is festive in December, with Christmas decorations that create a warm and cheerful atmosphere.

While the restroom could be cleaner given the high foot traffic, the staff make up for it with their friendliness and efficiency. I even received a supportive smile when I attempted to speak Spanish, which added a personal touch to the experience.

Parking nearby is extremely difficult here at Downtown San Diego near Gaslamp Quarter.

Tacos El Gordo is a must-visit spot for anyone in the area, offering some of the most authentic and flavorful tacos in San Diego,

(Dogs might stay at the outside dining area along the street but...

Very good tacos, VERY good. It's a little intimidating when you first walk in. You walk into a line for spicy pork tacos - if that's not what you want, walk and read the signs over the counter so that you can get in the right lines. *If you are an introvert - please make note of the above. Honestly, it was a little overwhelming for this introvert to walk in and find out that I was in a line for something that I did not want. It only took a moment to then look ahead and see the signs and move a couple of lines ahead.

That being said, these are some damned good tacos. They've got everything you can think of - including beef tongue and head. In looking at their menu, I see that they offer Tacos Azteca, which is grilled beef and cactus. I ALWAYS love to see cactus on menus! Next time I'll be sure and order that.

The hubs had the spicy pork and thoroughly enjoyed them. I had carne asada, it was moist and VERY good! According to the menu online you can get your choice of toppings, I totally missed that while ordering. I did ask for mine without onions, which was accommodated, and they put guac on it - and it was perfect that way.

Seating is limited, it's all outside. You'll likely find a table if no one is holding a table for people placing an order or lingering to enjoy their lunch hour. People seemed to accommodate singles if they wanted a seat and asked to sit with a couple. While we were eating, we did have a discussion that they aren't that far from the house so we can get it to go and just eat it at home (because the tables were full the entire time we were there)

A local whose family used to own Mexican restaurants suggested Tacos el Gordo. VERY glad he did, it was tasty and I'd go again!

Thanks for...