Went on a Friday evening for dinner around 6:30 with the fam. Located in a strip mall, parking was plentiful. Walking in, it was almost empty with only 2 other customers dining in. Love the surfer vibe, very coastal and fitting for Encinitas. We walked up to the front counter and ordered Street tacos, the Outer Reef Burrito with carne asada and a Spicy Crispy Fish Sandwich. Most of the menu items come with your choice of protein which is nice. The food came out in a timely manner and each of us thoroughly enjoyed our meal. All the staff there were friendly and helpful, even came to our table to check if everything's ok. These days it's a rarity for that to happen in a fast food place. The salsas were also very good. To end, we decided to try their margaritas. We chose the pineapple and passion margaritas and enjoyed those too. This place is similar to a Rubio's but definitely a couple notches above. We'll definitely be back! read more

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I don't usually visit Wahoo's Fish Taco since I live near La Jolla and there isn't one in the San Diego area, but whenever I make the trip up to Encinitas, it never disappoints. Today, I was helped by Jeremy and Carlos, who I believe are brothers. They were incredibly personable and helpful. When I mentioned how disappointed I was that the churros were discontinued, they genuinely empathized. They loved them too. I really hope those churros make a comeback someday. I ordered a slaw grilled fish taco, and it was absolutely delicious. Very full of flavor. I also highly recommend the French fries. They're honestly better than In-N-Out or most other fast food places. read more

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Great food and service, the ambiance is so great. Food is delicious! Just come back after few years! read more

Wahoo's Fish Tacos - "1988 Taco" 1 fish & 1 Shrimp w/ white rice, black beans - Mexican Near Me - Encinitas, California

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We called in an order to go and it took 20 minutes to make. It was a weekday, so there was no one there, but the ambiance was chill. The food was room temperature and was rubbery texture. The taco fell apart immediately, but the slaw on top was good. read more

Wahoo's Fish Tacos - "WAHOO'S BOWL" - Mexican Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Kitschy surfer themed restaurant chain with plenty of seating, serving up prototypical Cali-Mex grub. Food tastes exactly as you'd expect and is well-portioned. My kiddo's go-to is the Citrus Slaw Burrito (choice of protein with melted cheese, citrus slaw, roasted tomato salsa, rice & beans) with Carne Asada for a small upcharge. The Chicken Tortilla Soup, while I think technically a starter, is plenty for me as a main, especially if I'm also getting Churro Chips for dessert. :P Order at the counter, and a server will bring each dish out to your table as it's ready - which I like since I prioritize freshness, but some may not appreciate eating courses out of order and/or at slightly different times than the other members of your party! read more

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This place is awesome. It's the second time I've been there and the first time because I was so new I warmed up over ordering. But all the food was fabulous and even though we had too much food, they brought over some soup for us to try. Which was extraordinarily kind. Our server was Jeremiah's and he was as nice as can be and very patient and the food was delicious. And the people there that were customers were so nice and as I talked to them, they really enjoyed their food too. Why this place has 3 1/2 stars I feel as undeserved. Cause I am picky as hell. And it was really good so I just wanted to put it out there and thank them for being great. read more

Wahoo's Fish Tacos - Just wanted to show you what we paid - Mexican Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Hit this place for Wahoos salad. So tasty and fresh. Fish good too. Recommend Very healthy also read more

Wahoo's Fish Tacos - Mexican Near Me - Encinitas, California

Dude, wow! The blackened fish bowl, white rice, white spicy beans, pico de gallo coleslaw salad and of course, a wedge of lime, a touch of soy sauce, and the MUST the Mr. Lee sauce smothered on the fish. Tim and the team keep the Wahoo beach vibe alive and healthy. Amazing food and great service. Top 5 favorite meals, anytime! Was absolutely SUPER KIND! read more

Wahoo's Fish Tacos - Wahoos Bowl!!!! - Mexican Near Me - Encinitas, California

If I ran a restaurant, one thing I wouldn't do is allow my customer to become hangry because we didn't give them their complete to-go order and then when they call about it just tell them to send an email to get a refund for that item and then allow them plenty of time on their hands to leave a review while everyone else is eating. Mistakes happen, but the way a business handles the mistake is everything. Too many restaurants to choose from to ever go here again after that. read more

Walked in for my first time today. Jeremy was helping me out "I think that was his name" he was helpful and got me to try the blackened fish taco. His service was prompt and efficient. All was good. I wana come back. Thank you read more

Hate to leave this review because it's one of my favorite restaurants of all time, but today was just so bad. Our burritos were the smallest I have ever seen from them, the chicken in the quesadilla looked boiled and unseasoned, my boyfriends burrito was filled with 80% lettuce (photo), and the ceviche literally just looked like cheap shrimp mixed with pico de gallo. The service was really nice like always but I am really disappointed in the quality of their food this time.. read more

Wahoo's Fish Tacos - Mexican Near Me - Encinitas, California

Wahoos is super tasty and a great value. We hadn't ordered for a while and we're talking about how crazy it is that there's only one of them left. The grilled fish tacos are healthy and come with citrus slaw or the old school salsa and cheese. And their guacamole is also great. My sweetie likes the chicken bowl. We need to order from here more and hopefully other people will too. read more

Used to eat here a ton as a kid. Came back and had the best experience. Tim was working the register and Javier (I'm pretty sure that's his name) was in the kitchen. Tim took exceptional care of me and suggested to crispy fish tacos. Javier got my order out super quickly and still tasted great. I will be coming back read more

This chain has been around a long time, not sure why it doesn't do better these days. Honestly, I prefer Wahoo's to Rubios. The prices are better, the ambience is less corporate, and the food is also good and freshly made. Not just fish tacos, In fact I didn't have any on this visit, the burritos are really good and there are some very flavorful options. Service was good on my visit and it's a nice touch that they bring the food out to your table and follow up to see how you're doing too. read more

Wahoo's Fish Tacos - Mexican Near Me - Encinitas, California

My husband and I love coming here. They're always on top of it, even when they're super busy. Our order is always correct. And a special shoutout to a fantastic employee working the front today! He's so amazing! Carlos thank you! read more

I ordered the fish tacos and they were great, you can get them fried or baked. We came with a healthy portion of beans and rice and sliced avocado avocados on top. Very good lunch. This restaurant has other options as well. I would recommend it! read more

I always like the food from here, but what I've noticed the past few times I've been, is that the service is very good. I came in tonight and was super impressed by the whole crew. Honestly didn't expect service like that at an "order at the counter" place- it's better than a lot of sit down restaurants I've been to recently... read more

Wonderful place, great food and service. Done in and enjoy the delicious fish tacos, enchiladas and beans! Always wonderful, quality food read more

We have been a Wahoos customer since they have opened. We have never had an issue with anyone. Everyone is very nice and professional. Unfortunately today was the worst experience we have ever had while trying to enjoy our lunch. The server named Savannah has a poor attitude from the moment we walked into the restaurant. Leadership needs to address this situation before they loose customers. read more

This place is so nice so cozy and so peaceful. I love the decoration. Anyways. I LOVE THE BEANS. they have the best beans ever. Obviously black beans i'm talking about. fire beans i recommend the fish tacos. Awesome people. Awesome service. Awesome place. period. read more

Honestly I loved wahoos pre pandemic and I keep trying them and being disappointed post. First, they got rid of their best salsa which was a medium green. Now the last two times I've been the fish is beyond fishy. Tried their crispy fish this time because the spicy fish was bad last time. The crispy fish was a breaded frozen fish that was really fishy and the breading was like shake and bake. Rice and beans are amazing but it's just not enough anymore. I'm sorry wahoos I used to really love you but I just can't anymore. read more

The In-N-Out of grilled fish tacos. Also highly recommend the 1988 Burrito and Nachos (add brown rice for some real substance!) The current review score does not represent what a staple this place is. Not to mention they have this nice guy named Sergio who really makes an effort to be patient with you. Finally, the design is super California surf and skate vibes, super relaxed, always clean (bathrooms included). ‍ GRILL AND CHILL AT WAHOO'S!! My childhood Took some time for this review, it's awesome. Also try the Maui Onion Burrito! Very Hawaiian. read more

Wahoo's Fish Tacos - The 1988 Burrito, Grilled 1988 Fish Tacos, Wahoo's Green Sauce, Steamed Brown Rice, Black Beans - Mexican Near Me - Encinitas, California

We've been coming here for years and we have always had excellent meals and service. I realized that I need to tell the world about this! Just finished lunch here and servers were Jeremy and Sergio. Can't speak highly enough about the food and staff here! read more

This establishment I found very inviting. Plus , inside was well maintained. The staff were customer focused from the greet to asking is how the food was. Good portions, and they had metal forks "bonus". The brown rice, spicy fish, and slaw were on point. I'll be back. read more

I got to say when it comes to grilled fish tacos this is the best in my opinion.. I love the citrus slaw tacos with either salmon or wild caught spicy fish.. reasonably priced for yum food.. only complaint is they put way too much slaw on tacos.. that's great if you want slaw as side, but just for a taco the amount of slaw is ridiculous read more

When I lived in Manhattan Beach, I liked Wahoo. Kinda had the close to beach, surf vibe and I nice patio to people watch. Food to me was always second to the location and vibe. This Wahoo looks at a parking lot and Target, it's not the owners fault... just maybe what was available. But for me, the brand suffers. Inside is better and you get that vibe as you look at the cool art and stuff inside. The order line is very narrow and the menu is on the wall so you sort of have to really use the whole entrance and try and check out the large menu as you walk towards the order register. Maybe have a few menus as you walk in? Maybe CoVid kills that idea. Anyway, you order from a couple of nice dudes who could work at Vans next door. But sweet nice guys. I ordered some fries ( good not fantastic) and the new Fuego carnitas taco. I asked for it to be cooked crispy. I got it and Fuego is accurate. Very hot. Overly spicy for me. And not crispy which would have really helped the texture of the unit. It needed that. Diet Pepsi delicious! So, no outside vibe, hard to order and to me a not so great new item. Thus the 3 stars! read more

Wahoo's Fish Tacos - New Fuego Carnitas Taco! - Mexican Near Me - Encinitas, California

I visit Encinitas/Oceanside area a lot and find myself zipping by this Wahoo's often. Even though it isn't one of my favorite locations, I still love me some Wahoo's when I visit Cali. Wahoo's Fish Tacos has been serving the SoCal community delicious fast casual surf food since the 80's. Their food is a mixture of Mexican, Brazilian and Asian fare. They have a great partnership with the surfing and skateboard community and promote several local events. If you have never been, you basically pick your entrée item and one of several options of protein for your entrée. They have combos that come with a selection of beans and rice or items a la carte (the portions are pretty generous). The Outer Reef Burro is my usual choice, but the enchiladas are also pretty good. Wahoo's sells alcohol and has a good selection of beers and margaritas. If you are into stickers, ask for them at the counter. I like to stick them on my laptop or my skateboard. This Wahoo's is a little bit of a distance from the freeway. But the good food and good prices make it worth the trip. read more

Wahoo's Fish Tacos - a narrow hallway - Mexican Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Have not been here in a while, and has a chance to go last week! It was so delicious. Reminded us that we need to go more often! This food was amazing. Gotta love the secret menu item- The blackened mushroom enchiladas with green sauce. So good. The roasted veggies are amazing The fish tacos, so good! Just love the flavors there. The service was awesome. Tim and Carlos were so great. So professional so kind and so helpful. Highly recommend Wahoos ! read more

The food is decently good but not good enough to go out of the way to eat. So far I have only tried the fish tacos but they do offer other protein alternatives such as chicken and tofu. The fish tacos are ok. The tacos are buried in toppings so it is hard to see what is underneath. The rice and beans are decent. Not my first choice of sides. I would prefer some alternative sides instead. Service is good. Atmosphere inside is nice broken up with the island motif. They have plenty of parking and some outdoor seating. read more

Wahoo's Fish Tacos - Mexican Near Me - Encinitas, California

Excellent food and service. Sergio was so nice over the phone and got us all the condiments we desired when we came to pick up Our food. My daughter loves their lime wedges and my husband loads up on their pico and green sauce. The outer reef burrito with fish, rice and black beans was packed full of fish and flavor. The wahoos bowl is always delicious. Fresh delicious food in a casual So Cal atmosphere. read more

Great food. Great prices. I love their tofu individual taco. It's literally 2 in 1. Supper yummy. I also tried their new potato tacos. Supper crispy and delicious. Corona was the beer of the months and I loved that they had tapatío read more

Woo hoo! Great fish tacos and I love the amount of healthy options. Great place to take out or sit and enjoy your meal and the staff is awesome. read more

Great food (as always), but downright terrific customer service from a young man named Tim. He was fast, friendly and very tuned in to what we needed before we even knew e we needed it. My little dog was thankful for a cup of cold water, and I was thankful for the extra napkins excellent table service. Tim was there for us at every turn. Thank you! read more

It's good like always I usually get to go and dine in tonight I think I was the only guest that was here eating. I was still early though.

I LOVE Wahoos. We lived in OC for years so we went to the DTFullerton location every week. Consistently good (Thanks Adrianna!) I eat the tofu tacos and the tofu always had a nice char on it and it was very good. Now we live in San Diego with NO Wahoos so we had to drive to Encinitas to get "our fix." Over all pretty good but the tofu was NOT GRILLED. You really need that to give it some flavor. The rice and beans were on par but they were not very warm. Cmon, Encinitas. If we have to drive 30 miles for Wahoos you need to grill that tofu and keep your rice and beans hot!! And PLEASE bring a Wahoos to SD!! read more

We miss having a Wahoo's so close to home (literally less than 6 miles away) so whenever we are close to one we make a point to stop and bring home our Baja Rolls and burritos. This was the first time I have been to the Encinitas location. Staff was fairly friendly and we got our order pretty quickly. They have a new cocorita but were sold out (not their fault but was bummed couldn't try it). We brought the kids an outer reef burrito with carne asada and a few orders of our favorite Baja Rolls to share. My husband got a burrito as well and we ordered the ceviche. Everything was tasty per usual when eating at all Wahoo's! The ceviche was new for me and was very flavorful. It was spicy and packed with shrimp and fresh veg on a bed of lettuce and served with a bag of freshly made chips. All in all good stuff! read more

Wahoo's Fish Tacos - Mexican Near Me - Encinitas, California

We're from OC, land of the OG Wahoos. Sad there is only one location down in San Diego but likely we moved close by. The shrimp tacos with citrus slaw are a must have along with the Maui onion rings They also have great/cheap beers of the month that pair well with the tacos. Service is always fast and friendly! read more

One of my fave places to eat! So sad there aren't many anymore... but at the same time pleaded to have this one in Encinitas!!! Lots of parking... clean inside... staff is always pleasant... food comes out fast and food is ALWAYS GOOD! I always get a combo with a steak taco and cheese enchilada with green sauce... white beans and white rice! Hubz always gets two fish tacos and double white beans cause he loves them so much! Also, don't sleep on the onion rings!!! They are by far my most fave!! So light and crunchy and not oily!!! Like an amazing tempura onion ring! Again, my most fave onion rings ever!!! I love dipping them in the green enchilada sauce and the MR. LEE's sauce!!! The Mr. Lee's sauce is sooo good! Not too spicy... just this perfect hot chili sauce that is delicious! Don't forget to ask the staff for a few of these to add to your food! read more

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We love Wahoo's and REALLY miss the 2 nearest locations that closed (La Jolla and Point Loma). Their food is fresh and always delicious! I love their black beans and spicy white beans - they are very homemade tasting! read more

Love the fish bowl! White beans, fish "ala plancha" Perfection! The onion rings are always a treat. read more