Diego&#x27;s Taco Shop

So I'm from the Bay Area visiting family down in San Diego. Up north there's relatively decent…read moreMexican food, but nothing on the level of Tapatio's. The only thing I can think that compares is Cholo's in LA. Where I'm from burritos are 20 bucks, and like I said they're decent, but you can tell level of care and competence at Tapatio's is on another strata. The tortillas are fried to a perfect crisp. The cheese is melted perfectly. The chili rellanos exquisitely dipped in just the right batter... the salsas are smoky sweet. Don't miss Tapatio's!

Tried the beef enchiladas and it came with Picco de Gallo. I added some chipotle and salsa verde…read moreto it and it was perfect. Good portion size and it was made to order. They have fresh chips so I tried that as well. It's so freshly made it made me feel like bagged chips are stale. There's a little salsa bar off to the side. Service is always friendly and fast. Mel M Yelp 26:11

Over the moon

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Al Pancho's Mexican Restaurant

4.2(147 reviews)

0.9 mi

It's been quite a while since I have enjoyed a taco salad. We were up exploring close to Alpine and…read morefound this restaurant on Yelp. Parking was tricky as they were in the middle of two roads. They had just a few spots next to the restaurant and they were all full. We ended up parking across the street and played Frogger to get to the restaurant. Lol! The food was great and I did my best to eat sll of the salad because it was just delicious. I like the way they presented refried beans in a small taco salad cup. You get the beans and the crunchy! If you are in the area, definitely give this restaurant a try.

Service was amazing. We showed up on Thursday night..it was awesome. Cute small restaurant we found…read moreaccidently. The menu is good lots of choices and our server was happy to explain dishes. One of the best chimichangs ever. I had 2 meals from it. Friends had carne Asad plate. Taco salad and enchiladas..all were good size portions and very flavorful..we will go back

Indoor and patio restaurant

#6 Beef Flautas ! Yummy beans too

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Cafe de la hoya

Marieta’s

4.0(88 reviews)

1.0 mi

This place is a hidden gem band highly recommended. Cozy space and great Mexican food. Great drinks…read moreand service too.

First time trying this place and it was a very nice and cozy environment with super strong drinks…read moreand friendly staff. I didn't care for the shrimps ceviche so much there was lack of flavor. But their garlic butter shrimp was to die for!!! Their steak fajita was a bit on the dry side with more veggies then meat ratio.

Dining area

Sopa de Albondigas

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Mananas

3.1(193 reviews)

0.3 mi

Just update to add current menu and prices. Prices shown online are outrageous, so call the shop to…read moreorder.

I was in the parking lot looking around to see what was nearby and saw this place had Mexican food…read moreso I decided to check it out. I expected it to be a small hole-in-the-wall type of spot but I was surprised by how spacious it was. I really liked the decor because it felt like I was stepping into a place you would find in Mexico. They had a salsa bar and I liked that they also had pickled onions which was a nice touch. The prices were good and I tried their special 3 rolled tacos. The ingredients were fresh and the tacos were really good. I enjoyed my visit and would come back again.

Mar y tierra fajitas

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La Carreta Mexican Restaurant

3.4(221 reviews)

0.4 mi

If you're looking for authentic Mexican food with incredible service, this place is an absolute…read moremust-visit. From the moment you walk in, you're greeted with a smile and treated like family. The service is consistently amazing: attentive, friendly, and genuinely welcoming. You can tell they truly care about their customers. The food? Out of this world. Everything is fresh, flavorful, and clearly made with love. The cheese enchiladas, rice, and beans are hands down some of the best I've had...perfectly seasoned and so satisfying. And don't even get me started on the margaritas (try watermelon!) - delicious, refreshing, and the perfect complement to the meal. A special shoutout to the owner, Chelsea, who is absolutely wonderful. Her passion for what she does shines through in every detail, from the food to the overall experience. Tucked away in the shopping center off Tavern Road, this spot is a hidden gem that you don't want to miss. Once you try it, you'll definitely be back!

LA CARRETA is an Alpine Village Classic. Tasty unique menu with a great authentic atmosphere. LOVE…read more& ENJOY old town Alpine atmosphere!!

Watching the Pad game

Enchilada and taco place. The enchilada sauce is the best ever!!

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MUST order! A Carreta-Rita rimmed with tajin

Alpine Taco Shop

3.6(148 reviews)

0.5 mi

This is a small spot that's great for a quick stop. We were passing through town and were hungry…read moreand found this was open so we stopped in. It's not fancy decor but it was very clean and service was very friendly and the food was ready quickly made. I had a burrito and my wife had a beef taco and cheese enchilada. All of it was tasty and filling. We would definitely stop in again next time we are in the area!

If you want the best, most authentic Mexican food in San Diego county, Alpine Taco Shop is it!…read more This is a family owned and operated restaurant that has been in business since 1992. The dishes are high quality and absolutely delicious! Large menu, lots of choices and always consistent and service is quick. Indoor and outdoor seating (dog-friendly) and take out. Easy parking and not too far off of Interstate 8. Come up to Alpine and experience this amazing family restaurant!

Outside

Special #1

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Exterior

El Huevo Estrellado 2

3.7(14 reviews)

1.5 mi

This restaurant is unforgettable. The food is spectacular, flavorful and delicious. The micheladas…read moreare perfect and worthy of glorification. The main lady is very friendly and loved to talk, the cook makes the food. On the other hand the decoration is very cultural and delightful.

3rd time here and it doesn't disappoint The food is…read moreexcellent and the customer service is top notch Give this place a try and it may just become your favorite Mexican food place in Alpine

Menu

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Machaca and eggs

Alpine Tavern & Grill

4.1(330 reviews)

1.3 mi

Came here with a group of my friends and I really enjoyed the experience here!…read more The place is super adorable with some outside seating available. We were a party of 11 and we got a big booth so all of us could fit. I ordered a bowl of chili and had an Alpine Duet IPA. Im not normally an IPA drinker but this one I liked, it wasnt too bitter and I dare say I liked this IPA! Chili was great and hit the spot, was hearty and well seasoned, just what my body wanted. Ambiance was cozy and gave you a small mountain feel. Service was on point and no issues. Id definitely come back when in Alpine again, was a fun experience!

Why haven't we been here before!? Today the hubby and I met up with brother feom another mother,…read morefor linner. We were pleasantly surprised. We were greated right away & were told we could sit wherever we liked. Reallly nice a/c on this very warm day. Great vibes & music. What we ordered: * Potato Skins * Steak Sandwich w/ Salad * Alpine Protein Bowl Everything we had was very yummy. I loved their twist on the potato skins. They were sliced like thicker potato chips. Then mixed with.bacon & cheese. It was a HOT bowl filled with ooey gooey goodness..... The hubby & I shared the steak sandwich. DELICIOUS!! Our salad was fresh & crisp. My bro seemed to have really enjoyed his meal too. Ryan was our server and did a wonderful job. He even put the Padres game on for us!! Perfect.... We had a really good time. We can't wait to go back to try some of their other delicious items.

Fried green beans

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Alpine Tobacco Company

4.8(55 reviews)

0.9 mi

Lost my pen - again - I go through those things like water! Walked in and Shawn - the owner -…read moreremember who I was AND my name; SO. COOL!!! They have everything though, so much selection! And I love to support local businesses whenever I can! Keep it up Shawn, you are awesome!!!

Customer service is good, the owner Sean is attentive and runs a clean establishment…read more The restroom is ADA approved, however it is outside and a bit warm, single stall and unisex. No food, I didn't ask about pets. Smoking is ONLY allowed outdoors on the patio which is a downside considering the temperatures in Alpine during summer time. The patio is not enclosed with a/c, patio ceiling fans only. Beers/wine/seltzers. Moderate cigar selection. Parking is free in two small lots, one in front of the establishment, the other appears to be a shared lot with the restaurant next door.

Enjoying cigar from Alpine Tobacco

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Off The 8 Cafe

4.5(79 reviews)

0.3 mi

The staff were super kind and attentive. I came in after a really long day of work feeling…read moreexhausted, but they were welcoming and helped me get settled to order. There is seating available both inside and outside, with a comfortable and quiet vibe. The pancakes were soft and perfectly cooked, they came out pretty quickly

The service was fast and the girls were great. The food was perfect and the place is really cute…read moreinside. We were on our way to Sedona and we hadn't had breakfast. Got off on Tavern Road and found this place.

Off the 8 café open Monday through Friday 8am till 130

ABC omelette with Hash-browns

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Chocolate Shake

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7 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

RedX A.

0

3

0

6 years ago

Great service great food that's all It's making me type more so here's the star spangled banner poem: O say, can you see, by the dawn's early light, What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming? Whose broad stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight, O'er the ramparts we watched were so gallantly streaming; And the rocket's red glare, the bombs bursting in air, Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there; O say, does that star-spangled banner yet wave O'er the land of the free, and the home of the brave? On the shore dimly seen through the mists of the deep, Where the foe's haughty host in dread silence reposes, What is that which the breeze, o'er the towering steep, As it fitfully blows, now conceals, now discloses? Now it catches the gleam of the morning's first beam, In full glory reflected now shines on the stream; 'Tis the star-spangled banner; O long may it wave O'er the land of the free, and the home of the brave! And where is that band who so vauntingly swore That the havoc of war and the battle's confusion A home and a country should leave us no more? Their blood has washed out their foul footsteps' pollution. No refuge could save the hireling and slave, From the terror of flight and the gloom of the grave; And the star-spangled banner in triumph doth wave O'er the land of the free, and the home of the brave! O! thus be it ever, when freemen shall stand Between their loved homes and the war's desolation! Blest with victory and peace, may the heav'n-rescued land, Praise the power that hath made and preserved us a nation. Then conquer we must, for our cause it is just. And this be our motto-- "In God is our trust; " And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave O'er the land of the free, and the home of the brave. read more

Miguel C.

0

7

0

2 years ago

**Diego's Taco Shop - A Must-Visit!** I recently visited Diego's Taco Shop, and I must say, it exceeded all my expectations! The food was absolutely excellent - bursting with authentic flavors and made with fresh ingredients. Every bite was a delight, and the portion sizes were generous too. The customer service was top-notch. The staff was incredibly friendly, attentive, and made sure we had everything we needed to enjoy our meal. They made the whole experience even better. On top of that, the restaurant was spotless. You can tell they prioritize cleanliness, which is always a plus. Diego's Taco Shop is definitely a place I'll be returning to, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for great food and a welcoming atmosphere! read more

Father R.

0

1

0

6 years ago

look at their health inspector records, DO NOT RECOMMEND Got food poisoning. Throwing up blood probably because of all the vermin (not joking) yet somehow still have an A rating from health inspectors.... read more

ricardo c.

0

2

1

6 years ago

Food was amazing ! Under these new owners will definitely be coming back. Very profesional as well .

Ellie B.

0

1

0

7 years ago

We got 3 burritos and a quesadilla and my brothers burrito had 1/2 of a styrofoam cup.

joan p.

0

7

0

15 years ago

easy drive through good food. not cheap but not too expensive.

William S.

0

1

0

8 years ago

Mr. Neely is an average teacher but has a great restaurant!

Diego's Taco Shop - mexican - Updated September 2026

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Alpine Taco Shop

3.6

(148 reviews)

This is a small spot that's great for a quick stop. We were passing through town and were hungry…read moreand found this was open so we stopped in. It's not fancy decor but it was very clean and service was very friendly and the food was ready quickly made. I had a burrito and my wife had a beef taco and cheese enchilada. All of it was tasty and filling. We would definitely stop in again next time we are in the area!

If you want the best, most authentic Mexican food in San Diego county, Alpine Taco Shop is it!…read more This is a family owned and operated restaurant that has been in business since 1992. The dishes are high quality and absolutely delicious! Large menu, lots of choices and always consistent and service is quick. Indoor and outdoor seating (dog-friendly) and take out. Easy parking and not too far off of Interstate 8. Come up to Alpine and experience this amazing family restaurant!

Tapatios Mexican Grill

4.4

(329 reviews)

So I'm from the Bay Area visiting family down in San Diego. Up north there's relatively decent…read moreMexican food, but nothing on the level of Tapatio's. The only thing I can think that compares is Cholo's in LA. Where I'm from burritos are 20 bucks, and like I said they're decent, but you can tell level of care and competence at Tapatio's is on another strata. The tortillas are fried to a perfect crisp. The cheese is melted perfectly. The chili rellanos exquisitely dipped in just the right batter... the salsas are smoky sweet. Don't miss Tapatio's!

Tried the beef enchiladas and it came with Picco de Gallo. I added some chipotle and salsa verde…read moreto it and it was perfect. Good portion size and it was made to order. They have fresh chips so I tried that as well. It's so freshly made it made me feel like bagged chips are stale. There's a little salsa bar off to the side. Service is always friendly and fast. Mel M Yelp 26:11

Rita's Mexican Food

4.1

(83 reviews)

Hidden Gem. Been hitting Rita's for many years. This location isn't in a great spot, only because…read moreyou can't really see it from 2nd St. But there's plenty of parking here. Everything is great here & all cooked fresh when you order. Great red & green salsa. Ask for their Habanero salsa if you can hang with spicy. It's really spicy but it also has amazing flavor. The lite menu is awesome & so is everything else here. Most burritos are 1-2 dollars cheaper than anywhere else too. Oh!... the rolled tacos are easily some of the best rolled tacos in all of east county.

I love this place! They always have much more affordable prices for their food and they serve large…read moreportions. I've been going to this place for a couple of years now and will continue if they keep everything the same! I've never had issues with missing items, presentation, or cold food. Good job Rita's!

El Paso Taco Shop

4.0

(64 reviews)

This place is really good. The burritos are generous and they have pretty much anything you'd be in…read morethe mood for. Except maybe migas, but that's okay. The orders are made quickly without sacrificing quality and they package everything so that it's all secure during transport. There are a few tables outside so you can sit and wait for your order or eat it there if you want to. It's a family and biker-friendly setup but cannot host large parties unless you're down for tailgating.

This place is either hit or miss, we've had descent food. But it's nothing special. The carne asada…read moretacos aren't bad.

Tres Hermanos

3.9

(37 reviews)

I've been here at least six times and really enjoy their food and service…read more I always get the Chilaquiles and eggs--the red ones are my favorite. The Carne Asada burrito and Carne Asada fries are also fantastic. And the Phantom salsa? It's super spicy but packed with flavor! Best in town

The tacos here are always really good and they make the food quick. I don't mind eating inside…read moreeither because the place is always clean.

Villas Mexican Food

3.2

(47 reviews)

The Villas Mexican Food Restaurant is located right next door to The Greek Gyros Restaurant in the…read moreGrossmont Center Shopping Mall. Yesterday, on Sunday, August 23, 2025, in the later afternoon I took an Uber driver with my good friend Emily to the Villas Mexican Food Restaurant. Yesterday's weather forecast was very hot about 83 degrees outside. I was getting very thirsty and I wanted to order the regular size Horchata (Mexican) Beverage. This Mexican Beverage included 3 different flavors like Horchata drink us made with the flower Hisbiscus and sweet tea. These two other flavors are made with Cinnamon, White Rice, and White Sugar. The final flavor is Strawberry. All of these flavors are very delicious with natural ingredients and very refreshing on these Hot humid summers. My regular size Horchata Beverage price was $3.65. The next time I am shopping at this Grossmont Center Mall I will definitely order their Mexican Food. There were a husband and wife who are of Hispanic descent that served me my Horchata Beverage. I enjoyed sipping this delicious drink.

I get the potatoes, eggs, and cheese burrito. Classic breakfast with the large Mexican coke in a…read moreglass! My favorite. I come here so often the owner Omar already knows my order, just "the usual?" It's an awesome experience. Burrito itself is always really good. Cooked well. Toasty. Omar gets a lot of business for usually always being there working alone and still pushes out orders relatively quick. The ambiance is great. Plenty of space inside the food court. Tons of chairs and tables. Very chill spot to relax after ordering. I recommend this spot to anyone looking for Mexican Thanks Omar for amazing service and food !

El Azteca Taco Shop

4.1

(495 reviews)

El Azteca is still number one in my heart. They have my absolute favorite dish at any taco place,…read morethe Rosarito plate, I've even gotten my mom hooked on it. It's delicious chicken with tomatoes, onions, and peppers served with rice and beans and your choice of tortillas, plus a drink. All at a reasonable price. It makes two meals for me every time. My son swears the quesadillas here are magical and always eats most of it in the car on the way home because he can't wait. Service is always great, it's a family owned restaurant and they're consistently friendly and fantastic. It's a small business, but there's a few tables inside and chairs if you're getting takeout. They take phone orders too. There's plenty of parking in the lot and on the street. When I first started coming here a long time ago it was cash only, but you can use plastic now too. They do close early on Sunday, don't be like me and show up after 3 because you forgot..

The prices here are fair (compared to all these other places charging over $16 now), but the food…read morewas very bland and tired. I feel like the reviews are biased to the portions and price but not quality. I want to contribute my honest review without coming off as some food snob. I had no issues with the service (the staff seemed like people I could vibe with daily) and really wanted this place to be my loyal go-to. I've lived in the area for over 23 years and wanted to try something different after exhausting pretty much all butrriro options, so I checked out some online forums for recommendations. There are a lot of burrito spots around, so it's easy to overlook this one. Still, it kept popping up in people's suggestions, so it seems to have a loyal crowd. The California burrito and the breakfast burrito were mentioned as the best options. Maybe I'm late to the party, but after trying their California and breakfast burritos, I was surprised by how bland and dead the food tasted. The carne asada lacked flavor and freshness, and the potatoes in both burritos were very stale, mushy, and bitter (as though eyes / dark spots were present). Both burritos were missing something. People said the red salsa was supposed to be great, but it didn't add anything, and neither did the green salsa. Both just tasted flat. What really surprised me was the "famous" breakfast burrito that so many people rave about. It should be one of the easiest things to get right, but it tasted watered down. Maybe it was the onions and potatoes? I couldn't enjoy it unless I covered it in the bland red and green sauce just to make it edible. I even wondered if the eggs were processed or imitation (I'm no stranger to cafeteria food). I do understand that the majority are struggling, so this may reflect the quality and lack of taste. I've been all over San Diego and been in some financially rough areas that managed to stay afloat while still providing life and love by using locally sourced ingredients. So I feel like this place just lost motivation and wants to fill you up instead of giving you an experience.

El Mofles Taco Shop

4.6

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First time ordering from here, and I was honestly disappointed. I ordered the chicken enchiladas,…read moreand on my very first bite, I bit into a bone. That alone was enough to ruin the meal. The rice didn't taste fresh and seemed undercooked, while the beans were bland and lacked flavor. My partner ordered the potato tacos and wasn't a fan either. After reading all the positive reviews, we placed an order expecting a great meal, but unfortunately it just didn't live up to the hype. Would I come back? I'm not sure. Would I recommend this place? Unfortunately, no. I hope this was just an off day, but based on our experience, we were disappointed.

BIG BOY BURRITOS. The campechana burrito was the size of a small infant but still tasted delicious…read more Lots of places boast big burritos, but are basically a bag of fries and three pieces of meat. Not here. They also have an open salsa bar with hot carrots. Salsas all delicious. It was just one bro manning the store and he was chill.

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