Tacos El Gallo

The taste is delicious, definitely recommend!

I can honestly say these are some of the best tacos I've ever had! Living in San Diego we are fortunate enough to have so many options for Mexican food but it's safe to say I've found my new favorite place. Quality ingredients and excellent customer service.

This place has the best tacos I’ve had in the states! Coincidentally, the owner started with a taco shop in Mexico & opened this one afterwards.

Very good and tasty tacos. Cash only! The first thing I noticed when walking in was how much nicer it was inside from when the last restaurant was there. The staff was very friendly. Since they are just opening, not for the day but as a restaurant, they didn't have the full menu up yet. They did have tacos de birria and I really liked the flavor and portion size. I'm looking forward to trying their other tacos. Overall, worth trying out for a very reasonable price.

I’m a native San Diegan and have been to a million taco shops and this is literally the best one I’ve been to in a long time. I recently moved out of state and was back for the weekend and came here twice. The pastor tacos and corn mulitas are to die for! And the staff is very friendly and quick! I’m definitely going to be chasing this dragon for a while haha

I have tried Al Pastor tacos, but these are the best ones I've I found in SD.

10/10 flavorful Birria, Carne Asada Fries, Al Pastor was amazing as well! These people are amazing and they’re so welcoming and patient. We ordered 4 birria, 2 Al Pastor Street Tacos and we only got in Al Pastor and the kind man brought us 2 extra Birria tacos and another Al Pastor! We have been so so many different types of places for tacos this is definitely our new #1!

The best tacos I’ve had in El Cajon. Service is great and quick. Recommend the New York strip taco and Al Pastor. Always my go to spot.

This is some of the most authentic, truly delicious tacos that you can possibly find this side of the border. The Al pastor in particular is so good that we had to order a second round. The salsa is flavorful and the cilantro and onion are impossibly fresh. The tortillas are lightly crisped when you get them fresh and hot they provide the structural integrity needed to sustain a taco of the highest order.

If you want to experience original TJ tacos this place is a must , the salsa is amazing with the ribeye taco but what you really wanna try is the Campechana with is asada with a chile reyeno is very addictive .

Amazing food, prices, and employees. The food never disappoints and the salsa is delicious. This spot is my go-to for tacos. 10/10 would recommend.

Super good food and friendly staff. Definitely will come back!

Delicious tacos, kind chef, definitely coming again

Should have 10 stars! This place is better than places like tacos el gordo. They always take care of me here. Love love this place.

Popped in on our way back to AZ because we needed our SoCal taco fix and they did NOT disappoint. Friendly and fast service, tasty and filling food, with the perfect flavor and spice level. Don't underestimate the hole in the wall spots, they really are some of the best around and this spot is a perfect example of that. 10/10 - will definitely be stopping by again the next time we're passing through.

The food was delicious! Great condiment bar. Fresh veggies and salsas. She literally cooked it right in front of us!!! Not just prepared...cooked. Great drink choices. Refrigerator could be a little colder. Both of the staff members were so friendly. We were chatting about there recent 7th anniversary. I was gonna try for my first time that weekend but there was NO getting in without a loooong wait. Waited a week and stopped by. Soooo good!

There’s something special about Tacos El Gallo on 2nd Street in El Cajon—something you can feel before you even take your first bite. It’s more than just a place to grab food; it’s a family-run spot that radiates warmth, pride, and pure love for what they do. And nowhere is that more clear than in their adobada fries. I’ve had them twice now, and both times felt like rediscovering comfort in a plate. The fries come loaded—golden, perfectly crisp on the outside, soft inside—piled high with that rich, flavorful adobada that’s been marinated and grilled to perfection. Every bite hits that perfect balance: smoky, tangy, a little spicy, and absolutely packed with soul. The cheese, guac, and crema tie everything together like a family recipe meant to bring people closer. I got to try a bit of their birria as well while I waited on my order. Tacos El Gallo’s birria is melt-in-your-mouth tender and packed with deep, bold flavor. The consomé is rich, savory, and addictive—perfect for dipping or sipping straight. Easily one of the best in El Cajon and San Diego. You can tell the people behind the counter care deeply about what they serve. There’s passion in every detail, from the way they plate the food to the easy smiles they share with regulars. The atmosphere feels like being invited into someone’s home—filled with good energy, laughter, and the smell of something cooking just right. Tacos El Gallo isn’t just serving adobada fries—they’re serving connection, pride, and a genuine sense of community. When food this good is made with heart, you can taste it. And trust me, once you do, you’ll find yourself coming back—just like I did.

Had the rolled tacos and adobada fries! Both very yummy, especially the adobada fries! Service was quick and they were very nice. Would recommend the adobada fries if you’re starving! It’s a good size portion and super delicious.

So damn good! I've driven past this spot for 6 years and one day last week I decided to stop in- so glad I did! I ordered the cactus tacos 10/10 highly recommend. I've been back twice to get them again. I'm vegetarian and these tacos hit the spot- everything is made to order and although it came with hot sauce I didn't need it- my beans had so much flavor it was perfect! Don't sleep on a cactus dish it hits the mark everytime!

Best tacos I’ve had. I’m from Dallas, Texas and we need a spot like this in our home town.

Great authentic food, I ordered the adobada fries and as a local fry connoisseur I have to say these are a favorite, my girlfriend got the rolled tacos and enjoyed them as well.

Been a while since I been here and decided try these new items on the menu! I started things off with the carne asada nachos and the chile Relleno taco! Both were amazing !! Definitely worth driving here for. Then I got the New York steak taco which I got last time but I remember I absolutely loved it so I got it again. The service was great and so much variety of drinks in the restaurant. My favorite out of all three was the Chile Relleno taco! Can't wait time come back and see what they bring next!

When you are craving tacos. Like, real, authentic, perfectly-fit-in-your-hand, need-more-napkins, tacos--- Tacos El Gallo is your spot. Driving east county SD on Saturday we stopped in on a whim, of course after checking reviews here Don't get distracted by the handful of other "taco shops" nearby, this place is the real deal. Sodas and juices in the cooler, only tacos on the menu. My kinda place!! We ordered 2 queso birria, 2 carnitas, and 2 Al pastor. Every single bite was perfection. They were generous with the guac and salsa. Paper wrap was used on each to hold it all together, super helpful. The inside was classic taco shop/donut shop decor. Simple but clean and ample space to sit and eat. We chatted a bit with the owner, and enjoyed our quick stop before getting back on the road! This is a must stop if you are craving TJ style street tacos! Pro tip: when you order the carnitas, as for it extra crispy! They will get you that nice bark on the meat!

Great place to get some tacos! Around $4 tacos of any kind of meat but are small like street tacos. Where theyblack in portion they make up in taste. I had the Pastor, Birria and Tripas and all were so so delicious. Highly recommend if your craving some authentic tacos.

First timer & and I loved it! Ordered a taco de al pastor, quesadilla de maiz de asada & my favorite taco de nopal. Highly recommend. The cashier was very friendly and welcoming. I'll be back for sure 😊

My new favorite taco stop. I’ve tried several different tacos, even cabeza…all have been so good I had to visit them again. Radishes and lime make a nice addition to the already amazing tacos. I would recommend this place to friends if they didn’t already know. Thanks guys. Very polite staff, two thumbz up. Curbside is offered as well as Door Dash. Try em, you’ll like em.

So excited to have this new taco joint in the area! I got to try a couple of their offerings today: tacos de birria and carne asada. The carne was in one large strip (rather than chopped up) which I really enjoyed, and it was plentiful, tender, and juicy. The guac was flavorful, not watered down tasting like a lot of places. The birria was served on the classic red tortillas, and it was packed with flavor. Both tacos were served with beans on top, a favorite of mine. The staff was friendly and attentive, and service was swift. I'm looking forward to trying the adobada and their salsa offerings--neither was available today, as it seems they are open but not yet fully operational (but I could be wrong about that). I'll definitely be back.

Asphalt Anarchy

There’s something special about Tacos El Gallo on 2nd Street in El Cajon—something you can feel before you even take your first bite. It’s more than just a place to grab food; it’s a family-run spot that radiates warmth, pride, and pure love for what they do. And nowhere is that more clear than in their adobada fries. I’ve had them twice now, and both times felt like rediscovering comfort in a plate. The fries come loaded—golden, perfectly crisp on the outside, soft inside—piled high with that rich, flavorful adobada that’s been marinated and grilled to perfection. Every bite hits that perfect balance: smoky, tangy, a little spicy, and absolutely packed with soul. The cheese, guac, and crema tie everything together like a family recipe meant to bring people closer. I got to try a bit of their birria as well while I waited on my order. Tacos El Gallo’s birria is melt-in-your-mouth tender and packed with deep, bold flavor. The consomé is rich, savory, and addictive—perfect for dipping or sipping straight. Easily one of the best in El Cajon and San Diego. You can tell the people behind the counter care deeply about what they serve. There’s passion in every detail, from the way they plate the food to the easy smiles they share with regulars. The atmosphere feels like being invited into someone’s home—filled with good energy, laughter, and the smell of something cooking just right. Tacos El Gallo isn’t just serving adobada fries—they’re serving connection, pride, and a genuine sense of community. When food this good is made with heart, you can taste it. And trust me, once you do, you’ll find yourself coming back—just like I did.

T M (T)

So damn good! I've driven past this spot for 6 years and one day last week I decided to stop in- so glad I did! I ordered the cactus tacos 10/10 highly recommend. I've been back twice to get them again. I'm vegetarian and these tacos hit the spot- everything is made to order and although it came with hot sauce I didn't need it- my beans had so much flavor it was perfect! Don't sleep on a cactus dish it hits the mark everytime!

Josephene Alvarado

Had the rolled tacos and adobada fries! Both very yummy, especially the adobada fries! Service was quick and they were very nice. Would recommend the adobada fries if you’re starving! It’s a good size portion and super delicious.

Adriana Banuelos

Best tacos I’ve had. I’m from Dallas, Texas and we need a spot like this in our home town.

Seth M

Great authentic food, I ordered the adobada fries and as a local fry connoisseur I have to say these are a favorite, my girlfriend got the rolled tacos and enjoyed them as well.

Cero Grubs

Been a while since I been here and decided try these new items on the menu! I started things off with the carne asada nachos and the chile Relleno taco! Both were amazing !! Definitely worth driving here for. Then I got the New York steak taco which I got last time but I remember I absolutely loved it so I got it again. The service was great and so much variety of drinks in the restaurant. My favorite out of all three was the Chile Relleno taco! Can't wait time come back and see what they bring next!

Kaytlin Busby

I’m a native San Diegan and have been to a million taco shops and this is literally the best one I’ve been to in a long time. I recently moved out of state and was back for the weekend and came here twice. The pastor tacos and corn mulitas are to die for! And the staff is very friendly and quick! I’m definitely going to be chasing this dragon for a while haha

Rachel Lincoln

When you are craving tacos. Like, real, authentic, perfectly-fit-in-your-hand, need-more-napkins, tacos--- Tacos El Gallo is your spot. Driving east county SD on Saturday we stopped in on a whim, of course after checking reviews here Don't get distracted by the handful of other "taco shops" nearby, this place is the real deal. Sodas and juices in the cooler, only tacos on the menu. My kinda place!! We ordered 2 queso birria, 2 carnitas, and 2 Al pastor. Every single bite was perfection. They were generous with the guac and salsa. Paper wrap was used on each to hold it all together, super helpful. The inside was classic taco shop/donut shop decor. Simple but clean and ample space to sit and eat. We chatted a bit with the owner, and enjoyed our quick stop before getting back on the road! This is a must stop if you are craving TJ style street tacos! Pro tip: when you order the carnitas, as for it extra crispy! They will get you that nice bark on the meat!

Alex Suarez

Great place to get some tacos! Around $4 tacos of any kind of meat but are small like street tacos. Where theyblack in portion they make up in taste. I had the Pastor, Birria and Tripas and all were so so delicious. Highly recommend if your craving some authentic tacos.

Rosa Aguilar

First timer & and I loved it! Ordered a taco de al pastor, quesadilla de maiz de asada & my favorite taco de nopal. Highly recommend. The cashier was very friendly and welcoming. I'll be back for sure 😊

Me mysel and I

My new favorite taco stop. I’ve tried several different tacos, even cabeza…all have been so good I had to visit them again. Radishes and lime make a nice addition to the already amazing tacos. I would recommend this place to friends if they didn’t already know. Thanks guys. Very polite staff, two thumbz up. Curbside is offered as well as Door Dash. Try em, you’ll like em.

I wasn't able to find a good and authentic taco spot out here in el cajon until I came across this place. Being that im Hispanic, i look for a particular flavor especially whej it comes to tacos . The tacos are full of flavor! The service is outstanding and welcoming ❤️ it is the only place I go to when im in the mood for some great Mexican tacos !

Just stopped in for a quick bite with the family. They were very courteous and patient with my fussy kid. The food was AMAZING. Chile relleno taco and the quesabirria taco was amazing! My husband got the carne asada and loved it, make sure to get everything on it!

Family owned and operated small business taco shop. They were friendly and the food was absolutely delicious. Fresh authentic flavors. There is a variety of beverage choices- homemade horchata and jamaica pre bottled, jarritos, even Modelo! Tacos and quesadillas were AMAZING- handmade flour tortillas. We tried a variety of meats- carne asada, pastor, tripa, cabeza. I will absolutely be revisiting when I take so cal adventures

The owner of this business welcomes you as soon as you walk in! He took the tome to explain the menu as it was our first time! We were blown away by all of the flavors in the food! Owner himself brought our food to the table. Also checked on us. This is a taco shop not restaurant! If decor was better it definitely would be restaurant vibes! We were pleased with our experience here. Will be back soon!

If you want authentic street tacos like you get in Mexico, this place is doing it right 🙌Best tacos in the area!!! Steak and al pastor were delicious! Owner is a real nice guy carrying on the family tradition, he told us. Homemade Jamaica too 😍

By far the best tacos in East County, I always stop by when im in area. Tacos have the perfect flavorful taste Tijuana style. The staff is super friendly, and the kitchen and restaurant is clean.

Molly Wyrick

Just stopped in for a quick bite with the family. They were very courteous and patient with my fussy kid. The food was AMAZING. Chile relleno taco and the quesabirria taco was amazing! My husband got the carne asada and loved it, make sure to get everything on it!

Jorge Zamorano

By far the best tacos in East County, I always stop by when im in area. Tacos have the perfect flavorful taste Tijuana style. The staff is super friendly, and the kitchen and restaurant is clean.

Tara Miller

The owner of this business welcomes you as soon as you walk in! He took the tome to explain the menu as it was our first time! We were blown away by all of the flavors in the food! Owner himself brought our food to the table. Also checked on us. This is a taco shop not restaurant! If decor was better it definitely would be restaurant vibes! We were pleased with our experience here. Will be back soon!

Waiting4Waldo

If you want authentic street tacos like you get in Mexico, this place is doing it right 🙌Best tacos in the area!!! Steak and al pastor were delicious! Owner is a real nice guy carrying on the family tradition, he told us. Homemade Jamaica too 😍

J J

Family owned and operated small business taco shop. They were friendly and the food was absolutely delicious. Fresh authentic flavors. There is a variety of beverage choices- homemade horchata and jamaica pre bottled, jarritos, even Modelo! Tacos and quesadillas were AMAZING- handmade flour tortillas. We tried a variety of meats- carne asada, pastor, tripa, cabeza. I will absolutely be revisiting when I take so cal adventures

Anisha Ward

10/10 flavorful Birria, Carne Asada Fries, Al Pastor was amazing as well! These people are amazing and they’re so welcoming and patient. We ordered 4 birria, 2 Al Pastor Street Tacos and we only got in Al Pastor and the kind man brought us 2 extra Birria tacos and another Al Pastor! We have been so so many different types of places for tacos this is definitely our new #1!

Chai

Popped in on our way back to AZ because we needed our SoCal taco fix and they did NOT disappoint. Friendly and fast service, tasty and filling food, with the perfect flavor and spice level. Don't underestimate the hole in the wall spots, they really are some of the best around and this spot is a perfect example of that. 10/10 - will definitely be stopping by again the next time we're passing through.

It’s really really good I have the quesadillas with meat it’s so good and the lady is so nice I didn’t ask for her name but I asked if her tattoo is real and she said yeah

Really some solid tacos few take aways are how everything is cut up very well and cooked to its point correctly. Tacos stay together when you take a bite into them are flavorful, although I don’t like how some of the tortillas were a little bit too greasy and it hits heavy in the stomach if you aren’t used to it. Better tacos else where

Josh Dp

Really some solid tacos few take aways are how everything is cut up very well and cooked to its point correctly. Tacos stay together when you take a bite into them are flavorful, although I don’t like how some of the tortillas were a little bit too greasy and it hits heavy in the stomach if you aren’t used to it. Better tacos else where

Decent tacos for San Diego. They don't fry the tortillas like in Tijuana. They only give you one radish per order. Tacos weren't hot, they were warm. Steak on my taco was cold.

This place has lost my trust Placed an order for adobada and the meat was plain dry over cooked and you could tell it’s not from today. The lady had the nerve to say it was because it sat to long at the counter I placed the order and picked them up within 15 minutes this place is not what it used to be the cooks and waiters are joking laughing cursing in Spanish like if the customer was never here to make matters worse With the covid outbreak they don’t even wear masks with the new guidelines in place. The Chile relleños are soggy the tortillas are rough! Never again will I come spend my money here if that’s the way they treat the clients.

Food took a long time to come for what we got it was extremely over price One carne quesadilla with one lil strip of meat was 5 dollars and rest of tacos were 3 bucks with no flavor and we’re meat was no Taste and watery the tacos were a soggy mess I would never eat there ever again And worst part we drove 20 mints out of or way just to try them as they came highly recommended and had good reviews . But sadly I have to say they were hands down the worst tacos I have ever had . We don’t even finish we just trow them away and left

1st exp. Paid with a 20 dlls bill to the guy in the counter, then he said I didn't pay. I said check your cameras please. Then he said, sorry I dropped the bill on the floor. He tried to stole my $$ in my face, but did not work buddy. 2nd exp. Called for 8 harina tacos. Each one is $ 4.20 (8 x 4.20= $ 33.60). The guy I talked to said: it will be $49!!! I said; that is incorrect (even including taxes). He asked me; do you want them or not? I said yes, but I am not paying 49, please do the right math. He hunged up. I called again asking for the manager to get my order right and paid the right amount. A lady said; no manager here, we only take orders and serve! Worse costumer service ever. They try to steel every time. Not coming back for a third exp.

Surprisingly bad mexican food for San Diego county. Low quality beef in the carne asada burrito. Prices were also too high, but a lot of places have doubled their prices these days. Just can't believe what they're serving for the price. Salsa game was lame, too.

Andrew V

Surprisingly bad mexican food for San Diego county. Low quality beef in the carne asada burrito. Prices were also too high, but a lot of places have doubled their prices these days. Just can't believe what they're serving for the price. Salsa game was lame, too.