The Great San Diego Taco Census: How Many Burrito Havens Can One City Handle?
Ah, San Diego. Land of sunshine, beaches, and... enough Mexican restaurants to feed a whole mariachi army. But just how many taquerias, cantinas, and fancy-pants mole spots are we talking about here? Buckle up, amigos, because we're diving into the delicious depths of San Diego's Mexican food scene.
 |
| How Many Mexican Restaurants In San Diego |
By the Numbers: We're Counting Beans, Not Sheep
A 2023 study by who knows, probably some burrito-loving data wizards, revealed that San Diego County boasts a whopping 1,712 Mexican restaurants. That's more Mexican food options than you can shake a maraca at (and trust me, you'll want to keep that maraca handy for the festive atmosphere).
QuickTip: Pause when something feels important.
Wait, that's not all! California, as a whole, is home to a whopping 22% of the nation's Mexican restaurants. That's a lot of guac and a testament to our state's love affair with all things south of the border.
QuickTip: Break reading into digestible chunks.
So, Can You Eat Your Way Through Them All?
Probably not. Unless you're a superhuman with an iron stomach and an insatiable appetite for carne asada, attempting to conquer every single San Diego taco joint might be a bit much. But hey, that shouldn't stop you from trying!
QuickTip: Slow down if the pace feels too fast.
Here's a more realistic approach:
Tip: Use this post as a starting point for exploration.
 |
- Pick a neighborhood: San Diego has vibrant Mexican food scenes all over the county. Explore the Little Italy of Point Loma, the taco havens of National City, or the upscale options of Coronado.
- Theme your taco tour: Feeling adventurous? Go for the "spiciest burrito challenge." Craving a taste of tradition? Seek out the most "authentic" spots.
- Pace yourself: Remember, portion sizes can be generous. Don't go overboard and ruin your fiesta with a case of the "fiesta flopsweats."
Pro Tip: Wear comfortable pants. You're gonna need the wiggle room.
FAQ: Your San Diego Taco Pilgrimage Starts Here!
How to find the perfect taco in San Diego? Easy! Just follow these handy tips:
- How to navigate the sheer number of options? Rely on review sites and local recommendations, but don't be afraid to explore hidden gems!
- How to decipher a Mexican menu? Don't be shy to ask questions! Most restaurants are happy to explain their dishes.
- How to handle spice? Start mild and work your way up. Remember, you can always add spice, but you can't take it away (unless you have milk, then you're golden).
- How to perfect your taco etiquette? Corn tortillas are for grabbing, flour tortillas are for using a fork and knife (generally).
- How to avoid the dreaded "tourist trap?" Look for places with a local crowd and a menu in Spanish (usually a good sign).
So there you have it, folks! San Diego's Mexican food scene is a beautiful, delicious beast. With a little planning and a whole lot of hunger, you're sure to find your own personal taco paradise. Now get out there and explore!
 |
