Is there parking at The Taco Stand?

Street parking is available on Pearl Street in La Jolla, though it can be tight during peak hours. Since the spot draws consistent crowds, arriving earlier in the day (before 11:30 AM for lunch or before 5 PM for dinner) will make parking easier.

How long is the wait typically?

Expect a line out the door most days—reviewers consistently mention waits as "a great sign." Come between 10–11 AM or 2–4 PM to avoid the worst crowds. The wait moves steadily, and you can watch the kitchen work while you stand.

What should I order first?

The Baja fish tacos and shrimp tacos are the standouts—reviewers call them "quite possibly the best fish taco I've ever had." The Carne Asada and Al Pastor are solid, but the fish is what keeps people coming back. Hit the sauce bar generously; the salsas are fresh and unlimited.

Is The Taco Stand good for kids?

Absolutely. It's casual, outdoor-friendly, and tacos are universally kid-approved. The sauce bar lets them customize exactly what they want, and the open kitchen setup keeps them entertained while waiting.

Yes—the outdoor seating area is dog-friendly, which is typical for La Jolla spots with patios. Just check the current setup when you arrive, as outdoor configurations can shift seasonally.

Do they have options for dietary restrictions?

With a full taco lineup including fish, shrimp, carne asada, and al pastor, plus an unlimited sauce bar with fresh toppings, you have solid flexibility. Vegetarian options aren't explicitly mentioned in reviews, so call ahead if you have specific dietary needs.

Is it better to go for brunch, lunch, or dinner?

Late morning (10–11 AM) or mid-afternoon (2–4 PM) are your best bets to minimize waits while still catching the full menu. Early dinner (before 5 PM) is quieter than the dinner rush but still gets busy. Avoid peak lunch (noon–1:30 PM) unless you don't mind the line.

The Taco Stand — Restaurants in La Jolla, San Diego

“The Taco Stand anchors La Jolla's budget-friendly end with fish tacos that outclass most spots three times the price.”

This is the place that proves you don't need ocean views or valet parking to get exceptional seafood in the village. While other La Jolla spots trade on location, The Taco Stand focuses on one thing: absurdly fresh fish tacos that regularly pull lines down Pearl Street.

The Baja fish taco is the draw — light, crispy batter that doesn't overwhelm the fish, served on soft tortillas that are made throughout the day. The al pastor can be hit-or-miss depending on when they pull it from the spit, but the carne asada holds steady. Skip both and stick with the fish or shrimp.

The salsa bar is self-serve and generous — multiple salsas, pickled vegetables, radishes, cilantro, limes. You build your taco exactly how you want it, which means you can't blame anyone but yourself if it's under-seasoned.

Expect waits. The line frequently snakes out the door, especially during lunch and weekend brunch hours. They move quickly, but if you're the type who gets anxious standing in queues, time it for off-peak (weekday mid-afternoon). Counter seating faces the kitchen, so you can watch them work while you wait for your order.

Parking along Pearl is tough. The public lot a block up Draper works better. This isn't a linger-over-drinks spot — it's order-eat-leave, which is exactly what it should be. The retro decor and casual vibe fit the below-the-bluff location better than trying to compete with Prospect Street polish.

The Taco Stand

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