Don Carlos is hands down the BEST mexican restaurant in La Jolla! I alway go for the potato taquito plate with beans and rice . One really cool thing is the palm tree outside has a heart that is naturally occuring in the trunk of the palm. Bring your sweetheart to Don Carlos for vegan tamales YUM or choose from a huge menu! Love them!!!! read more

Don Carlos Taco Shop - The heart on the palm outside Don Carlos - Mexican Near Me - La Jolla, California

Threw some meat on the plate . Not good at all. Carnitas was the worst. Service is fine. read more

Food and service are still awesome as ever! The staff is always beyond sweet. I will always love the rolled tacos, but I tried something new and completely fell in love!! the shredded chicken quesadilla is amazing and packed with flavor. I literally crave it! If you're a quesadilla lover, you have to give this a try. It comes with onions and bell peppers, which made it even more delicious and enjoyable. read more

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This place is so good! Their food and service is top notch. Will definitely be coming back here.

Service was friendly and quick, food was delicious and great portion that will definitely get you full, and there's some nice outdoor seating! Lots of vegan options from burritos, tacos, and tamales! Would definitely come back again. read more

Don Carlos Taco Shop - Rolled Tacos Soyrizo (Soy Chorizo) Taco - Mexican Near Me - La Jolla, California

My boyfriend and I were so excited to try Don Carlos, we found it recommended online! It definitely felt like a local spot since there were a handful of people already eating outside and people going in and out for take out. Menu was surprisingly vast (over 35+ items). Looked like burritos were their specialty, so we ordered a California burrito and 3 rolled tacos. Burrito (California) - HUGE! Yummy, thick asada cuts with sour cream, salsa, and cheese. Rolled Tacos - Each stuffed with thick meaty beef pieces. I'd recommend getting with the sauce. For parking, you can park at the small lot neat CVS across the street. It made things very convenient. Overall a good with friendly service and hearty portions! read more

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We're always on the hunt for a good mom and pop taco shop when we're in La Jolla. The woman at the counter was really nice, and although the shop small (only two tables inside and a couple of seats outside), it has a cozy vibe. The food here is definitely different compared to what we're used to in Los Angeles. We tried a carne asada burrito, carnitas torta, two orders of taquitos with cheese and guacamole, and a chicken tamale with green chile. The salsa is mild, not spicy whatsoever, which was surprising. The burritos don't come with rice and beans inside, but they're huge, and the asada was a little tough but flavorful. The carnitas torta was also massive and packed with guacamole, which was a nice touch. The tamale was soft and the masa fell apart easily but the chicken had good flavor. Overall, the food was solid and worth the visit. Glad we gave this place a try. read more

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The service was fast, attentive, and super friendly. The menu elaborate and they serve just about everything from tamales to tacos to enchiladas. I ordered rolled tacos and Burria tacos. The rolled tacos were very good. Not overly greasy and nice crunchy ends. I was disappointed by the Burris tacos though. They were nothing like the photo on the board. They weren't bad but just not what I was expecting. No melted cheese and no dipping sauce. There is seating inside and outside. We had the whole outside seating area to ourselves between 12:30-1 on a weekday. The tables were dirty and could use a power wash. Would come back for take out next time as I normally do. read more

Don Carlos Taco Shop - Menu board - Mexican Near Me - La Jolla, California

Only had breakfast burritos, but they were fantastic, got the sunrise and added beans, and the hangover with sour cream. They were so quick, the tortillas were amazing too. I do have to say the Google locations says they open at 9, but they don't open until 9:30, worth the 30 minutes wait for them to open. Burritos are massive, I shared and the half was plenty to make me full post surf session. read more

I came in looking for some good authentic Mexican food and I was not disappointed. I just got their breakfast chorizo and eggs and it was delicious. Their rice and beans were also really good and reminded me of home. I think you can also tell a lot about a place by their tortillas and theirs were perfect to eat my food with. The workers were also super nice and answered my questions happily. The food came out really fast and I think it was pretty affordable as well. Mexican food in SD is very good and the Don Carlos Taco Shop is no different. The vibe of the restaurant made me feel like I was in Mexico having some food with family. I look forward to returning and trying something new! I would highly recommend this place to anyone looking for some good, authentic Mexican cuisine in La Jolla. read more

Don Carlos Taco Shop - Chorizo and eggs - Mexican Near Me - La Jolla, California

A small little storefront, this place was amazing! They're cash only, so you know they're good. There's some outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying the good weather with delicious food. They bring it out to you outside quickly, and they offer salsas as well. I got the chicken rolled tacos with guacamole, and they were crispy and juicy! Just purely great Mexican food, a perfect local stop. Can't wait to be back! read more

Don Carlos Taco Shop - Outside - Mexican Near Me - La Jolla, California

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As a vegetarian, it's somewhat common to go to a restaurant that has literally one option available to people who don't want meat in their food. No judgement if you do, but I don't. Hubby isn't a vegetarian and often laughs when I quickly shut my menu asking if I "decided" already. If there is only one option it doesn't take very long. That is NOT a problem at Don Carlos Taco Shop. I think it threw hubby off when I wasn't ready to order when he was, but there were too many delicious things to choose from on the menu. Don't worry, they have plenty of meat options, too. I had the Rolled Tacos with Potato, smothered in guacamole and cheese. It was a great value for the amount of food. Kids got a combo platter to share: cheese enchiladas and cheese quesadillas with beans and rice. Hubby had the biggest, meatiest burrito on the planet (he claims he makes up for what I lack), haha. Anyways, quick and easy meal for 4 with indoor seating and pleasant service to $50. We would absolutely come back here. Thanks for lunch! read more

I got the crispy rolled tacos with beef and they did not disappoint! They were super crunchy and the meat was flavorful. I also added guac and cheese, which I highly recommend. My friend got the birria quesadilla. The meat could've been a little more juicier if they added the broth, or maybe pan fried the quesadilla in the consommé. The guy taking orders was super nice! I also liked that they brought out the food to you. read more

Don Carlos Taco Shop - Mexican Near Me - La Jolla, California

parking: street parking in the neighborhood service: i went on a Sunday afternoon and there was a short line, but service was fast. employees were friendly too! what I ordered: - California burrito ($13.50): the fact that it's a MASSIVE burrito in la jolla for $13.50 is incredible, and it can easily be split into two meals. the seasoned carne asada goes well with the soft tortilla. i'd recommend adding some of their salsa for a nice kick. the only thing that could make it even better is guac. main takeaway: i believe it's been around since 1984. i'm def coming back!! read more

Don Carlos Taco Shop - Mexican Near Me - La Jolla, California

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Awesome value Mexican food spot! Found Don Carlos on yelp...and didn't realize it is down the street from Taco Stand. I felt super hungry, so I ordered a bit for myself (and gave my brother leftovers). -carne asada burrito $11.50 -carne asada quesadilla $12 +$3 surcharge for deluxe (sour crema and guac) Burrito had only steak, guac, and pico. A pound of food. It was really good. I would probably add cheese next time around. Quesadilla was good as well, but obviously, way too much food to eat both. There's minimal seating inside and outside. Good place for take out. Food definitely takes some time to come out. Street parking only. read more

Amazing food. Got the birria quesadilla with consume and gf got grilled fish taco and carne asada taco. We also got chips and salsa - so fresh. If we lived here, we'd come back all the time. Definitely worth it to eat here, service was great too. read more

Don Carlos Taco Shop - Quesabirria on Flour (corn) - Mexican Near Me - La Jolla, California

Vegans, you can eat here! They are vegan and vegetarian aware. There is an entire vegetarian section of the menu, but there are more things that you can make. You can basically put soy Rizzo on almost anything and make it vegan/vegetarian. You can almost make anything vegan bio, omitting sour cream and cheese. The burritos are huge! One in our party had fish tacos and said they were amazing. The service is outstanding! I think our favorite part was the huge squeeze bottles of salsa. They have red and green salsa that you can bring to your table inside or outside. We all agree that this was a better option than asking for the itty-bitty 1 ounce cups repeatedly. read more

Don Carlos Taco Shop - Vegetarian part of the menu. There are more options than this available for vegan and vegetarian. - Mexican Near Me - La Jolla, California

The picture speaks for itself. This was the most delicious meal I've had in a while. Great, friendly service, absolutely fire food, wonderful hole in the wall. Prices were great for the quality of food you get. I got the pollo asado enchiladas and birria quesadillas. So good. Cannot recommend this place enough. read more

Don Carlos Taco Shop - Pollo Asado Enchiladas and Birria Quesadilla - Mexican Near Me - La Jolla, California

A great little shop off of the main strip. The staff were friendly and the soyrizo tacos were really good! Beware, there isn't a restroom, though! read more

Don Carlos Taco Shop - Soyrizo Taco - Mexican Near Me - La Jolla, California

My daughter had a graduation party at the beach and she wanted burritos. We wanted the food to be hot, so we looked for the nearest burrito restaurant that isn't too far from La Jolla Shores and we found Don Carlos taco shop. The reviews looked good. We've never been and we took a risk! We ordered catering from Don Carlos. The catering menu on the website is outdated from 2016 which we found out when we called in. They gave us the update. We ordered 25 mini bean and cheese and 25 California burritos with a tray of rice and beans. With the delivery fee, they told us they would deliver to the beach. They didn't actually find us, but they did find the hotel we were in front of and gave our food to the beach umbrella guys. Thankfully they found us and gave us our food. All that to say, we were thrilled to have hot very yummy Mexican food on the beach. I would recommend Don Carlos for your catering events, just be on the lookout when they arrive if your dinner is being delivered to the beach. read more

Don Carlos Taco Shop - Rice and Beans Catered Trays - Mexican Near Me - La Jolla, California

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Large burritos and delicious food. Small indoor seating with 3 tables and a few outdoor tables. Friendly service, lines a little long at lunch time. Wet burrito was delicious. Also got beef rolled tacos, meat was a little dry. Overall would come back. read more

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Found this on a whim while craving tacos. Their fish taco and shrimp tacos were great. The sauces they have made great combo. Crispy tacos come in a pair: get a fish taco and a potato taco read more

Don Carlos Taco Shop - Fish taco - Mexican Near Me - La Jolla, California

The food was amazing. And also the service and drinks where amazing and they don't rip you of like other restaurants

Fast, friendly service. Loaded up Pearl St. breakfast burrito. Flavorful salsas. Everything you want from a taco shop.

I discovered this place recently, and I am in love! Some people online recommended it over Taco Stand (located just down the street), so I thought I would give it a try. Inside is tiny with only 2 tables, but there is outdoor seating. The menu is large and easy to read. The food came out quickly and hot! I ordered the California burrito, and it was easily one of the best I've had. The cheese was melted, and the carne asada was tender. I scarfed it down so fast. The only thing I wish was better was cleanliness and salsa selection; the tables and floor were dirty and needed wiping down, and I would have liked other types of salsa available. Despite that, the food was so good that I can see myself coming back to try other items. read more

I feel like this is one of the few mexican eateries that have been in San Diego for a long time and are still delicious!! I know I've been coming here for 30 years and it's super reliably tasty every time... especially after surfing nearby. My favorite is the La Jolla which is basically a grilled chicken California burrito. Thanks guys for being there for me over all the years, sorry it took me so long to leave a review!! Rock on!! read more

Don Carlos Taco Shop - Mexican Near Me - La Jolla, California

I'm a local and this is one of the best taco shops in SD! The birria quesadilla with consome is !! read more

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Food is amazing. But they aren't always open. So be careful if you've planned on eating here. You may be out of luck. For instance, their website said they would be open until 6pm on Sunday, March 15, 2026, but they were closed at 5pm. Strongly encourage the operators to update their voicemail and website for when the business is closed. read more

Great food. Limited seating mostly outdoors. Nothing fancy, just good food. Burrito bowls are delicious.

Fish and potato tacos are my go to choices. Close by taco stand but usually no line. The owner is always very kind when I take time to review my orders. read more

I m in town for a bit and looked for a classic carne asada taco and I scored big time. Had rice and beans as well and it was all to die for. Not to mention the customer service was top shelf! Thank you x 10!!! read more

Got some great tacos here last week. Huge menu and wide array of foods to try. We also tried one of the burritos which was great as well. Wish they had more seating!! read more

I ordered from here via Uber Eats for the first and last time. I asked for Onion Rings and Mexican Coke along with my California Burrito and I also asked for Nacho cheese on my burrito. They managed to screw up my entire order. They put the receipt for what I ordered in the bag, yet still managed to messed up my order. When I called the restaurant, they said "We don't know what's on UberEats but we don't do Nacho Cheese sauce or onion rings. I find it rather odd a restaurant doesn't know what's on their UberEats menu. One would think that they would notice my order receipt doesn't match with what they don't have on the menu. They just want money and don't care. They came off as cold when I told made them aware of the situation. I was looking for my next place to order from on the regular but that's a hard pass on this place. I will be sure to tell my guest not to eat here as well. I truly don't recommend this place. read more

Don Carlos Taco Shop - Mexican Near Me - La Jolla, California

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Best tacos, best breakfast burritos, best service! Been coming here for years. Their breakfast plates are amazing too.

Shared a plate of the Don Carlos Special- rolled potato tacos, rice and beans and a veggie burrito. Growing up with Mexican food, this is the closest thing to my childhood. Perfection! The corn tortilla was crispy (not hard) and not greasy. The flour tortilla was fresh and soft. There's a couple tables inside and a designated seating spot for ADA, some seats outside as well. There may be a line out the door, but worth the wait. You won't regret it. Definitely will be back. read more

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Their burritos absolutely slap. Had to split my burrito with a friend because they're huge. Super tiny shop so they have limited seating but definitely recommend the food here! read more

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A little more pricey but so so worth it. Lots of meat and guac and great flavors. Awesome and friendly service as well :) read more

Don Carlos Taco Shop - Mexican Near Me - La Jolla, California

Always a favorite. The best authentic South of the border food. Started many decades ago in the 80s by a wonderful man named Don Carlos from Costa Rica and his wife who is from Mexico. It is still run by the family. Famous for tamales and really fantastic catering. We love the potato tacos anytime of day - morning, late at night, middle of the day.... I also recommend picking up food to go and taking it down to the beach. This is truly where the locals who know real good Mexican food go. The menu is extensive and the food is delicious. The staff are fantastic and kind. vegan options too read more

Don Carlos Taco Shop - Potato taco sitting outside - Mexican Near Me - La Jolla, California

Delicious. No fuss counter service with amazing food! Went here over 10 years ago and had such a good meal then that I had to try again! Not disappointed in the least! Love the soft tacos and the refried beans are YUM! read more

Don Carlos Taco Shop - 1 chicken soft taco 1 carnitas soft taco beans and rice - Mexican Near Me - La Jolla, California

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I wasn't sure about Don Carlos Taco Shop, but I was in for a treat! The salsa that comes with the breakfast burrito was the best I have had at a restaurant in San Diego. Chunky but not too chunky, tasty, fresh, green was spicy but not overwhelming and complimented the burrito perfectly. The tortilla was soft, and you could easily share one breakfast burrito with two people. I'm coming back for the salsa. read more