Pavlos Tacos

4.4 (130 reviews)

Mexican

Open • 10:00 am - 8:00 pm

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Pavlos Tacos - Bacon omelette it was meh - Mexican Near Me - Encinitas, California

Pavlos Tacos - Mexican Near Me - Encinitas, California

Pavlos Tacos - a car parked in front of a restaurant - Mexican Near Me - Encinitas, California

Pavlos Tacos - Welcome back Mary (whom ever that is) - Mexican Near Me - Encinitas, California

Pavlos Tacos - a plate of nachos with guacamole - Mexican Near Me - Encinitas, California

Pavlos Tacos - the entrance to the restaurant - Mexican Near Me - Encinitas, California

Pavlos Tacos - They blended up their chicken soup for me. Was good. - Mexican Near Me - Encinitas, California

Pavlos Tacos - a group of people behind the counter - Mexican Near Me - Encinitas, California

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PAVLOS TACOS ATMOSPHERE

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Inside

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Casual

Moderate noise

Good for groups

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Ellee W.

The tacos were pretty good, they were a little too crunchy for my liking. The beans and rice are definitely something I would order again. I look forward to ordering other items.

Nice looking beef taco, but not that tasty

Tyson C.

I have been to this place twice now and I really wanted to support independently owned business, but the food lacks of quality and taste. Plenty of seating inside. Staff is present but not very personable. The lack of a salad bar or even salsa options is disappointing. They do over 1 red salsa and several bottle hot sauce that you can buy at the grocery store. The cooked beef had a weird grey color to it. The fish in the taco seems like a pre-battered frozen fish stick deep fried with an excess of oil. The presentation is nice with fresh veggies on top and salsa Fresca, but the flavor falls short.

Zack W.

Not bad, not great. Just decent. I've had better burritos for less money. Ordered the calidilla. California burrito wrapped in a quesadilla. The steak was tender and cooked nicely but wasn't as flavorful as other places. Not that much asada inside either. The green salsa was good but the red salsa tasted almost like tomato sauce. Different I guess. The workers were friendly, inside was clean, and the food came out quick, so that earns them an extra star. Food alone it's like 2. Overall, I'd try somewhere else before going back.

Bridgette B.

We like coming here for dinner after a good workout at the gym nearby! The owner even blended up their chicken soup up for me because of an orthodontist appointment that left me kinda achy and all rubber banded up. That was so nice of them! & it was good too. Much easier to eat. He even checked up on us to see how everything was. I joked and thanked him for my baby food. I'd get that way again regardless. Haha. Always a friendly experience when we come here. They have a nice mural on the wall and this month (July looking very patriotic) Even a welcome back sign for someone obviously special to them.

Dena K.

Very gracious team! THEY'RE Hiring cashier, prep and dishwasher! Located (east Solana) off El Camino Real School for Rock strip mall. So I ordered the Carne Asada. Wrapped beautifully and LOADED with MEAT! Along with Canada Dry drink. $20 Decent flavor, did I mention the wrap and that my tortilla didn't bust?!? It was a little wet from the lettuce, but a huge tasty project I took pleasure in destroying! Check them out or Uber eats this place and keep our beach community thriving! Stayinyurlane

Monica L.

Quick service, large indoor area with plenty of tables, and vibrantly painted walls Got the carne asada burrito and it was massive! The ingredients all felt fresh and each bite was a good mix of things. The tortilla was warm and toasted which gave it a yummy crunch. The meat was soft and didn't have any of the unchewable fatty parts. I wish there had been a bit more flavor in the guac but that's what their whole table of all different kinds of hot sauces is for :) Despite its size, this burrito was on the lighter side since I was able to finish the whole thing. But it still was a great filling meal for ~$13!

Susan R.

Ambiance..standard walk up taco shop..TV loud basic tables and chairs...parking lot outside..service was courteous but not especially friendly..food was very basic and the beef tasted like out of a can. Chunks and not fresh .very little cheese on top...not like I remember from just a few years ago..don't bother

First time going to pavlos had to try out a staple. The bean rice and cheese burrito. Nearly impossible to screw up, some may think. Service was fast however after my first bite I was made aware that the most vital part of the brc burrito (the cheese) was entirely unmelted and had just been tossed in still cold. Mind you I paid 10$ for this, I went back to the restaurant and report my findings which I rarely ever do. They remade my burrito and righted the odious crime. All is well however cant say I will be going back again anytime soon.

Steve Y.

First time here. Nice greeting. Great service! My Nachos Supreme was okay. A lil on the small size. Love the picnic tables!

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Nono B.

246

3 years ago

We've been getting the SD burritos from Pavlos for 20+ years!!! The best SoCal food your heart will find :) Nothing warms the heart more than coming home and eating a carne asade breakfast burrito with rolled tacos. Three generations and counting read more

Pavlos Tacos - Our love for Pavlos!!! - Mexican Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Bernard S.

155

2 years ago

Walking in to a bright and clean food facility gives one a good impression. The food selection is extensive. I had the Tuesday special; 3 rolled tacos with rice and refried beans. Large portions and low cost. Taste was excellent. Am from Las Vegas where there are numerous Mexican eateries; restaurants and stands. Pavlos would rate among the top three. Local family say they have been coming here for years. Would return next time I'm in California. read more

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Ciana B.

204

2 years ago

Been coming here forever. They have the Best soup and crispy chicken tacos in town. The staff is so friendly. Definitely a must when visiting San Diego read more

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Laura B.

296

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824

3 years ago

By far my favorite taco shop in all of San Diego. Some of the freshest ingredients and the size of everything is OVER the top. You truly get what you pay for. They don't cut corners like so many others do. I have been a loyal customer for many many many years since it was owned and name differently but the new owner was always the front guy who ran the shop. It has only improved since Pavlos himself bought the place, renamed it and took it over. You will NOT BE APPOINTED. San Diego has 100's of taco shop chains, Pavlos Tacos is not one of them. You can get a great breakfast burrito, salad, tostada, burrito, tacos and so much more!!!! What are you waiting for. read more

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Kyle D.

3 years ago

Having originally seen that Ricos was closed, I was devastated. What fantastic news to see that Pavlos has reopened the shop under his name! Legendary. I live for the red sauce, breakfast burritos, and Justin burrito here. All hail Pavlos. read more

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Skip C.

106

2 years ago

I really do love the food here. The burritos are meaty. But, do not miss the chicken soup. It is loaded with chicken. Flavored with fresh guacamole, cilantro and onions. It really is fantastic. read more

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Monica B.

2 years ago

First time going there , the food was great ordered two bacon breakfast burritos , the service was great, very nice people behind the counter. Ambiance was great two TV's and clean. I'll definitely be going back there. read more

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Brian M.

3 years ago

Thank you, Pavlos for keeping this legendary place alive and well! Been eating here for 20+ years and it is still the best Mexican joint in the area. Great employees making great food, feels like home every time I come in. read more

Pavlos Tacos - Justin Burrito - Mexican Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Karen W.

2 years ago

Amazing portion sizes good prices and quick service. Fellow taking our order seemed impatient, but it was towards the end of the day. Unfortunately, not much flavor in my tostada or my husband's rolled tacos. Am kinda surprised by other reviews, but we all like different things. read more

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Nancy H.

1 year ago

Just ate a delicious bean burrito...Pavlos Tacos takes it up a notch with their very lightly fried/warmed tortilla. I like their finely grated cheese, and I asked for onion and cilantro as well. They got the order perfectly and it tasted great on a cold day! read more

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Jennifer A.

Elite 26

4 years ago

Pavlos (aka Rico's) has the best burritos in Encinitas and having vegetarian items that don't contain lard is a MAJOR plus. Highly recommend the Justin Burrito with literally all the red salsa! read more

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Megan B.

3 years ago

All our food was delicious. The California urrito was amazing! We had fast and friendly service for our party of 9. The crispy tacos were loved by all the kids. read more

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Jordan R.

4 years ago

So excited for Ricos to be back. I have the best memories here as a kid and am so happy theyre back now as Pavlos!!! If you wondering if its just as good as Ricos, it is! Maybe better. The staff and food are top notch. Couldnt be happier. read more

Pavlos Tacos - a sign for the lunch specials - Mexican Near Me - Encinitas, California

Pavlos Tacos - Menu - Mexican Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Magnolia S.

3 years ago

Have not been at this place in a long time, used to ve Rico's taco shop, stop by since I was close and saw the name changed, was hesitant but decide to go get my chicken soup (this is what I always got here), not disappointed, chicken soup as good as I remember, good service. read more

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Aydin A.

2 years ago

In honesty, the food was just ok. I throughly enjoyed the burrito but the nachos had just a thin layer of the nasty nacho cheese, instead of any real cheese. The carne asada fries and almost no cheese, with just a little bit of guacamole and crema on the side. But the pricing wasn't toooo bad but still a little expensive for the quality. Still, cashiers were very nice and vibe was good, all the workers seemed to be incredibly kind to customers. read more

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Tami G.

3 years ago

Food is delicious. My favorite is the tostada supreme. Quick pick up! Dining in is ok too.

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Gena L.

295

623

3 years ago

Thank you Ryan M for posting the pic of the tostada supreme here. It looked so delicious I came here just to try it. Instead of vegetarian I got it with carne asada and it was so good I couldn't stop eating it. The crispy shell, tender carne asada, lettuce, cheese, beans, sour cream, guacamole, fresh tomatoes and the wonderful red salsa was a winning combination and one I can't wait to come back for. On a side note, I thought it was odd that they have gyro meat on the menu which I love but sounds strange when the majority of the menu is Mexican. One of these days I'll give it a try just to see. read more

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Nancy T.

3 years ago

My husband picked up some take out last week. I had a cold, so I wanted soup. Their chicken tortilla soup is really good, but the bean and cheese burrito is the best one I've had in a really long time. So happy that we tried this place! read more

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Dr J.

2 years ago

- Pavlos - formerly Rico's, same owner. Always good , fresh and reasonable. Owner operated daily. The most famous people who live local eat at Pavlos ! Kids friendly. read more

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L W.

3 years ago

The name may have changed, but it is still the same great product. Pavlo and his food are a local classic. Long live the Justin burrito

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Mike E.

2 years ago

Hate to give small businesses a bad review but hopefully they will improve. Ordered the Carne Asada burrito. It had lettuce that was wet, the meat was spurs, and the guacamole was a mixture of guacamole/sour cream and salsa. Ordered a drink and the total was $16.58. They don't have a salsa bar anymore and they give you 2 cheap napkins. I realize prices for the owner have gone up with labor etc but the quality shouldn't suffer. The service was good but won't be going back. read more

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Hillary A H.

167

4 years ago

Best taco shop around. Recently revamped and changed the name, but still just as amazing. My favorite burrito of all time is here. read more

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Joel B.

2 years ago

This my go to for Mexican in Encinitas. Burritos and enchiladas are great. I always call in my order and it is always ready when I arrive

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Ash H.

160

3 years ago

If I could give 10 stars I would. Breakfast burrito is top notch. The chicken soup has magical powers. The salsas are amazing. The owner and staff are amazing people! read more

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Alexandra S.

467

2 years ago

Best Cali burrito have had! This place is really solid and the salsa is very good - I would recommend this place to anyone looking for good Mexican food! read more

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Hank S.

3 years ago

The owner is a gentleman! He reassured me the hot sauce stayed the same after I was skeptical of the name change. He even gave me a sample to make sure I was satisfied. The hot sauce and the ingredients are the same as the old place if not better. I will be back next time I'm in town! read more

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JL S.

643

3 years ago

Decided to try Pavlos after reading the glowing Yelp reviews. Have to disagree with the reviewer who wrote that the size of everything is "over the top." Not true. Burritos were average size. Certainly enjoyed the juicy beef burrito. Wasn't filling so I also ordered a vegetarian burrito. Also an excellent choice. I like that the salsa is available in bottles rather than single use plastic tubs for dining in. I also had the restaurant to myself late on a Sunday afternoon. Looking forward to another visit. read more

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Patrice I.

104

101

2 years ago

Pavlo's enchiladas are the best! Some places have the weird sweet red sauce, however here they are the classic enchiladas. Paired with a side of rice and the yummy beans with melted cheese on top and I am stuffed. My son loves the Justin burrito and eats it several times per week. The kids that work the counter are sweet and Pavlos always greets me with a big smile. Order was ready in 5 minutes today! read more

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Mallory K.

3 years ago

Most amazing service and food! Same owner, same hot sauce, same A++ service. Love this guy, love the food, the local feel. Thank you for being THE taco joint in Encinitas. Been here since my high school days, now I'm 31 and still come back home for the hot sauce. read more

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Jorge D.

2 years ago

coming from a real Mexican, I felt offended!!!! for starters why did my burrito come with lettuce!!! ‍ and I feel they are taking advantage of the area , but not even the drinks have flavor.. great for your typical "American" family. I'd compare it to if Taco Bell and Albertos had a Caucasian baby, it would be this restaurant. was a lunch that was bought for us by a client.. i am very grateful, but felt the need to leave this comment... read more

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Nichole G.

3 years ago

Excellent food and friendly owner. The burritos are gigantic. Food is so fresh highly recommend

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Bojan D.

3 years ago

The best is back The best Mexican food and healthy too, been coming here 20 years and it's the best quality read more

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Julee K.

3 years ago

best taco shop ever! Have been coming here my entire life and their veggie burrito is the best in town.

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Brei B.

3 years ago

I'd give a 100 out of 10 if I could. My heart broke in pieces when Rico's closed. I'd been a customer for 30 years!! Every time I walk through the doors it's immediate nostalgia. Their salsa is what I'd take if deserted on an island. My husband had an appointment in the area and lovingly drove by to see if there was a miracle, and indeed, there was! Pavlos is my hero. I insisted he get me my favorite burrito and ample salsa so I could confirm it's true....and when my husband told him how happy I was that they're back and how much I love their salsa, he gifted us with a quart container. Great Mexican, great ownership, VERY happy customer. I miss you terribly! I'll be seeing you again very soon. read more

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Jessica B.

3 years ago

As an encinitas native you could say I'm picky about authentic Mexican. Pavlos is one of my favorite Mexican spots of all time in San Diego. The food is authentic, so delicious and never disappoints. Don't miss out on this place. read more

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Brian H.

3 years ago

So I decided to search yelp for 5 star places near me. Pavlos popped up as the top rated so I gave it a try and ordered a carne asada burrito. I'm really not sure where all the 5 stars reviews are coming from. My burrito was not hot, it seemed like they reheated some carne asada but it was barely warm and was also hard/chewy, definitely not fresh. Overall it didn't have much flavor especially the meat so I had to add a lot of salsa. read more

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Eliza D.

2 years ago

Burritos are always big and perfect as well as reasonably priced. Definitely one of my top local taco shops. Service is top notch, great people. Plenty of parking. read more

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Ryan N.

271

3 years ago

Outstanding! Great food and even better service. We have been going to Pavlo for years as a to-go customer and recently used their catering for a birthday party. Pavlo helped with suggestions and quantities recommended for the number of guests. He was right on and the food was a hit! Highly recommended for reliable service and high-quality food! read more

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Melanie B.

3 years ago

This local gem is my favorite! Fresh, quality, clean ingredients, perfectly cooked and served with a friendly smile! The food is delicious and healthy! Thank you Pavlo for keeping my belly full and happy!! read more

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L K.

2 years ago

The Justin burrito with red sauce - I could eat it every day. This is the perfect neighborhood taco shop.

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Page 2 of 4

165 S El Camino Real
Encinitas, CA 92024
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(760) 274-6169
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Hours

What time does Pavlos Tacos open?

Pavlos Tacos opens at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Pavlos Tacos close?

Pavlos Tacos is closed on Monday.Pavlos Tacos closes at 8:00 PM on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Mon ClosedTue-Sun 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Food & Alcohol

Does Pavlos Tacos serve alcohol?

Yes, Pavlos Tacos serves alcohol.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Pavlos Tacos have parking?

Yes, Pavlos Tacos has parking options. Validated Parking

Other Amenities

Does Pavlos Tacos have free WiFi?

Yes, Pavlos Tacos has free WiFi.

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Tostada no meat....$18!!!

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•$

When out-of-town visitors wanted burritos and other Mexican food for their last morning in San…read moreDiego, we headed to Juanitas! Lucy was very welcoming ... and patient while eight of us placed our orders. I finally tried the Huevos Rancheros (4/5). The eggs were perfect, but the rancheros sauce was a pico de gallo. The flour tortillas were great. My wife had our favorite here: Carnitas Burrito (5/5). In fact, we refer to this restaurant as "Juanitas Carnitas" ... the best Carnitas Burrito in San Diego County!

I would like to claim that this was my local spot growing up in the area back in the mid-80s to…read moremid-90s but it wasn't. We would travel here and pretend it was though. When I first went to Juanitas I was in jr. high and the mix of skaters, cholos, surfers, punk rockers, and leucadia locals definitely grabbed me. Years later, my friends and I would meet here before shows, after surf sessions, before going out to skate, or just at night being lazy sipping on jarritos blaring boilermaker from a boom box. I moved to LA for college but any time I would come back to see family, I would make a stop at Juanitas. Anytime I am in the area, I will always make a stop at Juanitas. Juanitas FOREVER.

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Inside

Classic Encinitas Mexican food

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Cancun Mexican & Seafood

4.3(554 reviews)

3.7 mi

•$

Talk about a HIDDEN JEM. Right next to a gas station isn't usually someplace you find AWESOME food…read morebut this is one of those exceptions. Having set my Apple Maps before reading the description of the restaurant, my wife and I set our course on the way back from the San Diego Zoo. I didn't want to get home too late and the parking situation for the better restaurants near the zoo didn't look promising so we decided to go further away from San Diego to find a place on the way home near the 5 freeway. Cancun may not look like much but the food is pretty freaking amazing. My surf and turf burrito filled with generous amounts of shrimp and carne asada was incredible. Adding sour cream and guacamole just put it on another level. No burritos like this near my home. My wife's shrimp plate was also a winner. Lots of shrimp. My wife's only gripe was not enough rice and beans. Even the side of corn tortillas was moist and tasty. I'm not sure if they make their own tortillas but it seemed like it. Even the french fries are incredible. Nice and crispy but not dry. I thought I'd still be hungry after just the burrito but I had no idea what a monster it is. Even after eating 3/4 of it, the remainder was still heavy. The older lady working the register is so sweet. A little hard to understand since she has a thick accent but very nice and helpful. The cook was cool too. Very happy when I stopped before leaving to tell them the food was "delicioso". Don't let the gas station scare you away. The food is jammin'! I plan on stopping by again when I attend Comic-con next year.

You can tell the owner really cares about this place! Every dish is made with love. We always get…read morethe #17 fried shrimp and a crispy beef taco.

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Awesome food quality service

Crispy chicken tacos. Great price!

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Carna asada burrito. Soooo goooood

El Nopalito

4.1(314 reviews)

1.3 mi

•$

It's kind of strange to have this little restaurant next to one of the best Mexican markets in this…read morearea. But anything you can get in the market they will cook for you at the restaurant and it is all fantastic. I can't wait to go deep into the products at the market and try everything. My roll tacos today are the best I've ever had and they were six dollars! This place is a winner and local.

Writing this review specifically about the chicken tamales. I paid $16.99 expecting traditional…read morechicken tamales, but they were mostly potatoes and carrots. Each tamale had only one very small piece of chicken, about the size of a quarter, not marinated. I called to let them know, and the response was a laugh and an "oops," which felt like poor customer service. Just a heads-up for anyone buying the tamales expecting actual chicken.

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Hamburger meat

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Why does Yelp recommend reviews?

Hundreds of millions of reviews are posted on Yelp, and our automated recommendation software works in the background to showcase the reviews that it …

6 reviews that are not currently recommended

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

Betsy M.

Elite 26

155

1 month ago

This Mexican taco shop is absolutely delicious and easily one of my new favorite spots. The service is quick, welcoming, and makes you feel right at home the moment you walk in. With so many incredible options on the menu, it's honestly hard to choose just one--everything sounds amazing. I ordered the rolled tacos, and they were out of this world. Perfectly crispy, packed with flavor, and just downright delicious. My daughter and I were already talking about coming back before we even finished eating. There's so much more we want to try, and the authenticity of the food makes it even better. If you're craving real, flavorful, authentic Mexican food, this place is a must‑visit. Highly recommend. read more

Lindsay L.

4 years ago

Pavlos tacos is formerly known as Rico's taco shop and is one of my favorite all time restaurants! I grew up eating their food and it's just as good now as it was 20 years ago. The new management change in mid 2022 is fantastic and the food is even better! We love Pavlos! read more

Connor B.

4 years ago

So glad Rico's tacos is back as Pavlos Tacos. By far the best California burrito and hot sauce. I've been coming for 15 years, can't say enough great things about this place and their staff. Come support their reopening! read more

Nancy A.

3 years ago

Absolutely horrible and gross. How can you mess up Mexican food in San Diego. Management was rude and abusive to employees. Hard to believe this dank little place is still in business. read more

Kapualani B.

126

9 months ago

Consistently excellent Mexican food at a very reasonable price. Burrito is large enough for two meals. read more

Zach S.

3 years ago

Excellent food and service been going here for years cant beat it. Beach and a burrito.

Pavlos Tacos - mexican - Updated June 2026

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Pavlos Tacos - mexican - Updated June 2026

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Order Pavlos Tacos Takeout or Delivery

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PAVLOS TACOS ATMOSPHERE

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More businesses like Pavlos Tacos

Cocina de Barrio - Encinitas

Los Tacos

The Taco Stand

La Especial Norte

Casa De Bandini at The Forum

Jorge's Mexicatessen

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6 Pavlos Tacos reviews that are not currently recommended

Why does Yelp recommend reviews?

6 reviews that are not currently recommended

Pavlos Tacos - mexican - Updated June 2026

Best of Encinitas

People found Pavlos Tacos by searching for…

Trending Searches in Encinitas, CA

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Browse Brands

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