Part 9 of the Seed-Oil-Free Taco Shack Saga: Back from Utah, Expanded Menu, and My Shih Tzu's Official Seal of Approval I can't believe I'm writing another damn review, but the saga refuses to die. Just got back from a couple weeks in Utah for a modeling gig, and today was one of those "supposed to be Sabbath rest" Sundays that turned into a 5:30am-to-6pm nonstop grind -- brekkie, yacht provisioning, sauna, gym, laundry, writing, dog grooming, hotel meetings, the whole chaotic list. By evening I was numb, brain dead, and just needed my little plate to get home and collapse. Shayne and Nick decided this was the perfect day to hit me with an expanded menu and daily specials. Tacos, burritos, nachos/fries/tots, bowls, crunch wraps, breakfast burritos, quesadillas, sides, drinks -- it was too much for my fried Sunday brain to process. I took pictures though, so y'all can see the glory for yourselves. I kept it simple: three rolled tacos + a side of fries covered in beans and melted cheese (first time trying their fries). I've been ordering bean-loaded fries for 15 years at my old favorite spot (RIP to that era), especially during my strict pescatarian decade after the poultry allergy. This place nailed it. The beans and cheese on those fries? Fkn amazing. Next time I'm going deluxe with guac and sour cream on top. The rolled tacos were solid as always, but the real MVP was that massive side of salsa -- I killed the whole thing between the tacos and fries like it was my job. Here's the wildest part: I take my Shih Tzu to In-N-Out sometimes, but my picky little guy straight-up stopped eating their fries (fried in sunflower oil, a seed oil). Now? He only goes crazy for the fries, tots, and chips from this seed-oil-free taco shop. Dude won't even drink tap water -- only bottled spring or nothing. If my dog's picky palate approves, that's basically Michelin-level validation in my book. Gym bros and the Health Conscious I see in line -- y'all better be telling Nick and Shayne that Mike the gym bro from Yelp sent you or we're gonna have words Oh, and I fkn love the fries here. Can't do In-N-Out anymore; the seed oils make me break out like crazy. I'm following my Shih Tzu's lead from now on -- only these clean ones, deluxe gym bro edition. Huge W for the expanded menu too. Taco special night on Tuesday? 4 tacos for $10 is going straight on my calendar. I'll be there. This spot keeps winning. Clean food that actually tastes incredible, fuels hard training days, keeps my body happy, and even my shih tzu co-signs it. Shayne and Nick are building something real. See you Tuesday for taco night. The saga rolls on stronger than ever. read more

See all

One of the best taco shops in San Diego, hands down. The California burrito was really good, great flavor, good texture, and everything tasted fresh. We also had the carne asada taco and it was just as good. Simple, flavorful, and exactly what you want from a solid taco shop. Don't overthink it, get the California burrito and a carne asada taco and you'll be happy. Crest Tacos is definitely a spot I'll come back to. read more

See all

What makes Mexican food so good? Places like Crest Taco is one of the reasons. Mexican food is supposed to be flavorful. This place has mastered the craft of taste. You'll want to be after one try. (: read more

sad day for Mahi Mahi fish taco lovers in Hillcres. Crest has stopped selling g their signature Mahi Mahi fish taco. i cant believe it was a bad seller, I lived them. I told and brought many customers to Crest for those amazing Mahi Mahi tacos. they brought a COD Baja taco and raised the price by a couple bucks. I used to get 2 Mahi tacos for I think $14.00+ Previously 5 stars for the Mahi.... They were the BOMB. read more

Overdue review for Crest Taco located in Hillcrest area of San Diego close to Scripps Mercy Medical. Free 10 mins parking in the same lot this stand is in. Ordered the beer battered Mahi Mahi tacos for myself and the Queso Birria taco plain, no onions for my pup. The fish tacos were very tasty, but I didn't care much for the corn tortillas, too thick, which I didn't eat. My pup really liked the queso birria which is tender shredded beef and melted cheese, she practically inhaled it. Outdoor seating with umbrellas for shade which faces Washington St one of the major streets in the area. So many people in their cars being lookey loos doesn't give a good vibe for a dining experience. If you have the time and inclination, it's best to order togo and eat in your car or a better place with no car exhausts and lookey loos lol Service from staffers need training, they're not very customer oriented, not courteous or friendly. Also, didn't like it when other people who ordered after me got their orders ahead of mine :/ to which I expressed my displeasure. read more

See all

Chilling, waiting for my wife's dental appointment and decided to grab a taco. The price is high, $6 for an al pastor taco. But it was good - I'd give it a solid B+. The pork was nicely marinated / seasoned, and cooked very well, maintaining juiciness. The garlic sauce is something I've never tried and I enjoyed it. Nice to just sit and people / traffic watch on Washington street. And they keep the outdoor space very clean, a rarity for taco shops. If in the area, I'd come again. But I wouldn't order the Coke. $4 is too much! read more

See all

Crest Taco is a modern corner taco stand in the Hillcrest neighborhood. The new owners completely refurbished the structure after taking over from the predecessor taqueria. There was some limited on-site parking with the liquor store and other neighboring businesses in the small plaza. Outdoor tables with canopies were available on a patio to the west of the building. The service window faced north towards Washington St. About a half dozen kinds of tacos were the first items displayed on the menu board. Nachos/fries/taters, crunch wraps, burritos/bowls, quesadillas, breakfast burritos, and sides were the other categories. The products were made without the use of seed oils if that matters to you. I chose the initial two listed tacos which were The Castro and Al Pastor. The first was a carne asada type using citrus-garlic marinated top sirloin steak with guacamole and pico. The second consisted of marinated pork, grilled pineapple, onion, cilantro, and crema. Both tacos were served on a regular corn tortilla and not the street size variety. The steak was juicier (and one dollar more expensive) than the pork which was why I favored that taco over the other. My experience at Crest Taco was worth a four star rating. read more

See all

Was curious to come back here since they renovated the outside and have new management. This spot is in Hillcrest, attached to the parking lot of the liquor store, and parking was actually really easy. It's a taco‑shop‑style setup where you order at the window, with outdoor tables and shade. The little eating area definitely got a facelift -- new umbrellas, furniture, and some nice tile detailing on the exterior of the building. The carne asada was more like a grilled steak, cooked nicely. Prices felt a little steep in my opinion for a taco shop, but I'm glad I tried it. Not sure it'll become my go‑to taco spot, but if I'm in the area and want something quick to go, I could see myself picking up food from here again. read more

See all

Crest Taco recently opened off of W Washington Street in a small store front in the same parking lot as a liquor store. It's super easy to get access, which can be a rarity for shops in this area. I liked seeing their sign highlighting their seed oil free menu, but was a little worried the healthy focus might detract from the taste. Nothing to worry about here! The food is delicious and authentic! I ordered a breakfast burrito- the OG (eggs, potato, ham and cheese)! I liked that the burrito was clean, but huge! I was hungry but still only able to eat half. I especially loved the salsas. They were so flavorful. The red had a nice smoky kick to it and the verde was equally tasty. This is a great spot. Food is delicious, but also well made and feels clean. You don't leave feeling weighed down, even with a huge burrito! Service was friendly and there's some seats if you want to sit outside! read more

See all

A great addition to the neighborhood. Some might say, another taco shop, but it's so much better than the taco shop that previously housed this location. I got their chorizo breakfast burrito which comes with eggs, cheese, chorizo and chipotle sauce and they were nice enough to sub the potatoes for beans instead. It was such a good burrito! $14 which is a bit pricey, but I sliced in half and I'll be eating the rest for breakfast tomorrow. They get an extra star because of their hot sauce selection. They gave me three to choose from (obviously I chose to try them all) and red, green and a creamy garlic habanero. They all packed massive flavor and heat. The garlic habanero was my favorite! Staff was very nice and you could see a lot of people in the kitchen prepping food. This is a casual spot, but they still have some nice seating areas and have really cleaned up the space. My only critique for them is their operating hours. Would love if they were open before closer to 8am because I very rarely eat breakfast after 9am most days of the week. read more

Crest Taco - Grand slammer breakfast burrito which comes - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

Food was straight bus gang. That burrito might be the one reason ya boi came to sandy diegos. It was like an old McDonald look but the price was not quite. W's in the chat for the look and the oddly convenient liquor store. The people were speedy, not quite as fast as Jose .B. The people were musically inclined for the vibe for shoving a 2 pound burrito down my throat as fast as I can. read more

Crest Taco - Gas fam - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

Crest Taco has recently open its doors in the old La Posta location. The building has been remodeled and brought up to standards. It offers a nice inviting trendy look. They are located at the Bubbles Market & Spirits parking lot. Crest Taco is offering fresh house made Mexican eats. I picked up "The Breakfast Banger" burrito with a delicious house chorizo blend, three eggs, house potatoes, cheese, and a tasty house made chipotle crema for $12.99 plus tax. The burrito was not only large, but very delicious. The chorizo was quite good, the eggs well seasoned, the potatoes tender, and chipotle cream brought everything together nicely. It was a delicious breakfast burrito. They also offer a value ham and two egg, and cheese breakfast burrito for $4.99. Also, an O.G. bacon or ham, three eggs, cheese, and potato breakfast burrito for $12.99, not to mention a breakfast sausage or veggie breakfast burrito. In addition to tacos, burritos, rolled tacos, quesadillas, nachos, and fries, they also offer crunch wraps and $1.99 fish tacos! The service was upbeat and friendly. They offer outside stand up eating spaces. Oh yes, make sure to try their salsas, they are very tasty. read more

See all

Fantastic food and fantastic service. Very fair pricing, generous portion. Comfortable outdoor dining area. Will return often! So impressed! Thank you Shane and Nick for an ideal first visit! read more

The guy who took my order gave me excellent recommendations. He was very friendly and even brought out my To-Go order to the table I was sitting at. There wasn't a long line and the food was cooked to order. It was so good and would recommend if you're going for something quick. They have great menu items! read more

Crest Taco - Outside of Crest Taco - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

I recently had such an incredible experience at Crest Taco that I had to share. A few days before going, I called ahead because of my allergies and spoke with Nick, the chef. He was kind, patient, and thorough as we reviewed everything. He reassured me and told me to ask for him when I arrived, which immediately put me at ease. When I got there, Shayne was at the window. When I asked for Nick, Shayne didn't make me feel awkward or high-maintenance -- just the opposite. Shayne was warm, accommodating, and made the whole interaction feel easy and welcoming. Nick prepared a carne asada taco with guacamole for me, and it was absolutely spectacular. The beef was so tender it practically melted -- buttery, rich, and deeply flavorful. The guacamole was smooth and creamy, perfectly balanced and fresh. And the corn tortilla? Soft and warm with those beautiful toasted edges, slightly nutty and fragrant, with just enough structure to hold everything together while still being delicate. Every bite was layered, balanced, and honestly... a total mouthgasm. Shayne continued to be kind and generous throughout our visit, helping make the experience feel extra special. Going out can be complicated with my accessibility needs and health considerations, and their care made me feel safer and respected -- not like an inconvenience. My friend ordered the fried fish taco and shared that it was crispy, light, and equally delicious. I also had a Squirt in a glass bottle (there's just something delicious about soda in glass), which was the perfect refreshing pairing. I highly recommend Crest Taco -- not just for the incredible food, but for the genuine care, love, and warmth. Shayne and Nick truly went above and beyond to make our experience spectacular and safer. I'll absolutely be back. read more

I love the carne asada tacos! I always get the same thing because it's so delicious. Everyone is always so friendly and my order is made quickly. read more

I'll start by saying I hadn't strolled through Hillcrest in a long time. We were driving by when everyone suddenly craved Mexican food. I remembered the old spot (La Posta) near the liquor store with plenty of parking... but to my surprise, it had completely transformed into Crest Taco and what a pleasant surprise it was. They really put in the work, truly beautified the place. Even just from the outside, it's gorgeous: clean, inviting, and thoughtfully designed with plenty of seating. It instantly feels welcoming. Also, there is a full view of the amazing kitchen which is very clean. Extra perk you get to see the cooks in action. We ordered a variety of items, but I went with a classic breakfast burrito and wow (keep in mind that I have high stands when it comes to Mexican food). So satisfying and full of flavor. On top of that, the service was kind, fast, and efficient. Everything came out quickly without feeling rushed, and the food was simply delicious. Highlights: *Perfect if you're in a hurry --there's a shared parking lot, which is a huge win on such a busy street. *Kid-friendly: YES. Just keep them close since it's right next to a busy road, but the seating area is nicely enclosed and feels safe. *Bathroom on site. And if you're ever in a pinch, the nearby liquor store and CVS are close by too. Overall, Crest Taco was an unexpected gem! We'll definitely be back. read more

See all

Bland, over priced, under portioned, un memorable salsa and lack of salsa. Decent service. Absolute waste of money for Mexican food. I am a Mexican food hound and I am Very disappointed . Really, nothing was memorable . Not the meat. Not the bowl. Not the salsa. What was memorable was how much filler food they use. So many better places , don't waste your time. Go spend your hard earned money elsewhere! Not on a $5 soda. Safe travels ! read more

Super fresh and tasty Mid century look. Clean. Extra personal service. Go and try. read more

Crest Taco - Carne asada tacos - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

I must have been infected with the SD bug recently because now, several years after I first moved here, I have started having all-encompassing burrito cravings with concerning frequency. I want one that's juicy, meaty, flavorful, greasy, and most importantly, well-wrapped enough to preserve the aforementioned qualities. During a recent late-night yelp trawl, I came across Crest Taco, which opened less than a month ago. The burritos looked massive and it was close to some errands I needed to get done, so this was a slam-dunk spot for me to try. First and foremost, they have PARKING, something I definitely look out for in Hillcrest. Crest shares a lot with a liquor store and when I dropped by on a late weekday morning, there were plenty of spots. I was the only person ordering and service was quick and friendly. I got the al pastor burrito with both the red and green salsas. I was flabbergasted by the heft of the bag I was handed. the burrito was thicker than my forearm, and almost as long. I drove with HASTE to get back home, and thankfully the burrito was still warm and not soggy when I sat down to dig in. I cut into it, intending to eat only half. Right away I was hit with the aroma and visuals of spiced pork, smokey charred bits and glistening fat throughout, and I knew I was in danger. I had a bite of the burrito by itself before I started drowning it in salsa, and it was fantastic, almost perfect to me. I love that it is not stuffed with cheese, I love that there is a generous amount of guac throughout, I love the savory, perfectly-cooked pork with the pop of sweetness from the pineapple and the crisp, fresh tang of the pico de gallo. I love that the burrito did not fall apart despite me going ham on it and despite the river of flavorful, spicy-but-not-too-spicy sauces I poured into it. I even relished the grease squishing out over my knuckles as I approached the bottom of the burrito, given the pinnacle of burrito enjoyment I had reached just moments prior. (Maybe a bit less grease would be nice, but I was not mad) Anyways, I devoured the entire burrito then fell deep into a food coma. I resurfaced to write this review. I will say I did not really enjoy the rice. While it was seasoned, it was way too mushy. I might just ask for no rice next time since I don't think it added anything but bulk to my burrito. Since this burrito is quite rich, I would have also loved some lime to squeeze on top to cut through the fat. For $14.99 and hassle-free parking, this was everything I wanted out of a burrito and more. I will definitely come back to try some of their other meats and tacos (they are called Crest Taco after all). And next time, I will not get confused and navigate to Crest Cafe, a few blocks over XD. The fewer barriers to burrito heaven, the better! read more

Crest Taco - Al pastor burrito!! Literally this is the only photo I took because after this, I was too busy devouring it to pick my phone back up - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

Absolutely great! Started with the Al pastor and carne asada tacos. Both were delicious! These are nicely sized tacos, priced really well for the quality and size! 5 star service! Super appreciate the tips on menu items! Only note is the rice was not quite there, but I can't put my finger on it (it's a taste thing - maybe salt or the seed oil?), and it could be just this serving. Regardless, I'll be back (and back again)! read more

Crest Taco - Carne asada (left) and Al Pastor (right). Both delicious! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

The best tacos in San Diego! in a city full of taco shops I have to say Crest taco serves up delicious flavors within every bite. Definitely a must try!! Shout out to Chef Nick and Shayne! The best customer service read more

Crest Taco - Quesa Birria Taco - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

Ordered the crunch wrap with chicken as my protein and it was incredible! Fast delivery read more

Crest Taco - Chicken crunch wrap - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

So good! And the tacos are big! I get the carne asada and chicken! 10/10 perfect lunch meal if you work close by read more

Crest Taco - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

Don't pass this place up! They have amazing food. The breakfast burrito was huge and filling with great ingredients. The staff was quick and nice. We are on out me way to the SD zoo and I had to stop here and grab a bite. Will be coming back read more

Crest Taco - Big banger has chorizo in it and a side of tater tots. So good - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

Guy at the window was friendly and informative on the sauce choices. Jamaica was perfect from after coming from the dentist down the street. But the tacos were a bit on the pricey side for me for the amount of the content served on the flat tortilla. read more

Incredible! I stopped by Crest for the first time to grab a California burrito to-go and it was not only gigantic, but overall phenomenal. The carne asada was so well seasoned, the fries were perfectly crisp and it had the perfect ratio of everything in it. Great quality steak, a nice amount of guac, not too many fries or too much cheese, and the burrito was still piping hot by the time I got home! I must say I think this spot may be my favorite. It was a bit on the pricier side, but for the size you get and the good quality ingredients, it was worth every penny!! Oh and the garlic habanero sauce and salsa verde were so good! Service was quick, staff were very friendly, and they have a nice small outdoor set up if you want to eat there! Highly recommend! read more

Crest Taco - California burrito. HUGE, and I mean huge! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

The guy at the window is five out of five stars. Friendly, polite, efficient. That's not always the case in Hillcrest. I would recommend this place to anyone in the area. read more

The food and overall experience were excellent. I ordered the rolled tacos and the Crunch Wrap, and both were outstanding. The rolled tacos were incredibly authentic, packed with flavorful shredded beef, and had more meat than any rolled taco I've ever had. Everything was fresh and delicious. I'll definitely be coming back and highly recommend giving this place a try! read more

Crest Taco - 5 rolled tacos - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

Service is great! Super polite and helpful! The 2 stars is for that. The lack of stars is for the food. Beautiful presentation but the flavor got left behind! Not even the salsa could save the two potatoe tacos I ordered. read more

I had been looking forward to trying Crest Taco for a while, so I was genuinely excited to bring it home and dig in. Unfortunately, the excitement faded a bit when I realized they forgot to include the consommé for my birria taco. If you're ordering birria, the consommé isn't optional...it's kind of the whole experience. Dipping is the moment. The birria was bland without it. That said, credit where it's due: the carne asada taco was pretty good. The meat was flavorful and cooked well, and that definitely saved the meal from being a total letdown. Overall, I'd give it three stars. Solid potential, but missing key components on a takeout order is disappointing. I'd consider giving them another shot, but I'll definitely be checking the bag before I leave next time. read more

Best cali burrito in town! the staff is incredibly kind and the service was top tier. got my food within 5 mins of ordering. ample outdoor seating too. I posted about this place on my TikTok and i am so glad I did because it deserves all the recognition!!!! read more

They don't do substitutes. Burrito comes with avocado but I want cheese. Extra $ Burritos were $14 last week. $18 this week. My last time here. read more

Amazing food, all so fresh and delicious, great service Recommended to everyone. I got the OG breakfast burrito was so good. Side chip's guacamole and salsa was delicious. The best part is get there garlic sauce. It's to die for. read more

A great addition to the neighborhood. Service is friendly and the food is really good. The food is fresh and made with quality ingredients-you definitely get your money's worth here. I will say some of the meat could use a little more seasoning which is why I gave it a 4 instead of 5 but the green salsa helps add flavor where it's needed. The birria crunch wrap is a must try! Definitely check them out and support local business. read more

See all

I walked to this place to try them out the Taco tried was greasy and taquito meat was sweet. It's not traditional Mexican food.

BEST TACOS IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD! ordered the carne asada and birria tacos. Both were beautifully seasoned and had all the flavors in every bite. Definitely something Hillcrest was missing. read more

Crest Taco - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

Went for their first day and the food is great, the location looks inviting compared to the old taco spot that used to be there , service was great even though they're still trying to get down their "rhythm"/times , it was worth the wait. The new little building is open so you can see what's going on with your food , cute little tables to stand and eat (just need to remember to wipe them down) over all I'm glad this place opened and when I want something quick and tasty , I will be stopping by. read more

Crest Taco - Al pastor burrito with a side of grilled chilis . Worth the price , flavor was great. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

Stopped in the Hillcrest area feeling hungry and came across Crest Tacos--so glad we did. We ordered the carne asada burrito, breakfast bacon burrito, and the pollo asado bowl, and everything was flavorful and satisfying. Shane, who took our order, was incredibly kind and welcoming! The space was clean with comfortable seating for those who want to dine in. We'll definitely be returning. read more

Crest Taco - Pollo Asado Bowl - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - San Diego, California

I was very sad when the taco stand that was here before closed. I tried this place twice. The first time I got a fish taco and some other kind of taco. Very disappointed. I took a chance and tried again for breakfast. Ordered a Breakfast Banger burrito. It was huge but had no flavor. The eggs seemed like they were the kind made from powder. It was weird. I threw it away. The salsas were not authentic Mexican. This place is not authentic Mexican. I will never return. The people running it were nice but the food is not. read more