Top Five Taco Shops in Chula Vista, California
Border Town's Best Tacos and Burritos at Roberto's, Cotixan, Don Pedros, More
Jun 4, 2009
The city is chock full of taco stands (a.k.a. taquerías) with brightly-colored walls, uncomfortable bench seating, and thoroughly stocked salsa bars. Distinguished from “restaurants” in the mind of any Southern California native, taco shops are relaxed, reasonably priced hang-out spots which frequently serve the late-night crowd.
Although this is far from an exhaustive list, the following “top five” choices represent some of the more widely agreed-upon favorites in Chula Vista, taking into account both taste and convenience.
#5 Lolita’s (619) 585-0232
Lolita’s, which is a popular hang-out spot for high school students, makes the list more for its popularity than its food. Although the bean and cheese burritos and super quesadillas are respectable, beyond that, it’s hard to say exactly why Lolita’s has become the quintessential taco shop in Chula Vista. Despite the fact that it is humbly located near a gas station in a tiny strip mall off of Telegraph Canyon Road, it seems like everyone knows it. While its sheer popularity makes it worthy of a mention in the top five, the food at Lolita’s just doesn’t have what it takes to claim the top spot.
#4 Tacos El Gordo De Tijuana (619) 691-8848
Tacos El Gordo (698 “H” St.) is the perfect place to practice your Spanish. With the claim that their tacos are as authentic as they come, this taquería offers the famous street tacos that one would see in Tijuana. These tacos consist of small, round, corn tortillas filled with your choice of meat. The shop offers a broad selection of meats, including tripe, lengua, and cabeza. For those who prefer to stick to carne asada, be sure to get it “con todo.” This includes onion, cilantro, and guacamole. Although the tacos are small in size, they are certainly big in taste!
#3 Don Pedro’s (619) 427-0214
Located at 247 3rd Avenue in downtown Chula Vista, Don Pedro’s is a quiet, unassuming taco shop. The atmosphere isn’t much to speak of, but with a wide selection and daily specials, one is never at a loss for choices. There are plenty of options for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. A particular favorite here is the carne asada chips. Enough for two people, the carne asada comes piled high on a plate of freshly-made chips. The plate is then dashed with salsa fresca, sour cream, guacamole, and cheese. Come hungry for this one!
#2 Cotixan (619) 425-4565
When it comes to carnitas burritos, look no farther than Cotixan (pronounced co-tee-han). This favorite, which is nestled in a strip mall, has mastered the secret when it comes to pork. Carnitas burritos can be hit or miss, depending on location. Some have an excess amount of fat and grease or lack the additions (like guacamole) that make a burrito tasty. But, those at Cotixan are always warm, with plenty of guacamole. Paired with one of Cotixan’s great horchatas, you’re in for a special treat!
#1 Roberto’s (619) 425-0444
Although there is little distinction between the food at Roberto’s and the food at Cotixan or Don Pedro’s, this taquería ultimately earns bonus points which help garner it the top spot. In fact, one of its greatest strengths is that this shop falls under the general rule that you can “trust any place that ends in -–berto’s” to have great food and decent prices. For those who are skeptical that this locale deserves the top spot, it’s also important to note that in addition to offering amazing food, Roberto’s is the only shop on the list that is open 24 hours AND has a drive-thru. The only thing that beats their convenience is their combination plates which offer a wide variety of tacos, burritos, and enchiladas. Although the food here can get extra greasy, the taste is amazing! The beef tacos are not to be missed!
