Tacos El Panson

4433 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92115, United States
+1 619-241-2222
$$$ Taco restaurant
(697 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

If you’re on the hunt for a truly authentic taco experience in San Diego, look no further than Tacos El Panson. This hidden gem, located at 4433 El Cajon Blvd, has quickly become a beloved spot for both locals and visitors, thanks to its vibrant flavors and friendly atmosphere.

Tacos El Panson specializes in Mexican cuisine, showcasing a superb selection of tacos, quesadillas, tortas, and tamales. The menu is a treasure trove of deliciousness, but the tacos definitely steal the spotlight. Many patrons rave about the Al Pastor tacos, perfectly seasoned and served with fresh, soft tortillas. Meanwhile, the carne asada and lengua tacos come highly recommended too, all generously piled with fresh ingredients.

Each dish at Tacos El Panson can be described as a labor of love, where the rich revitalization of tradition meets the comforting embrace of home-cooked meals. The tantalizing aromas from the kitchen will awaken your appetite, while each bite introduces a symphony of textures and flavors. Take, for example, the mulitas, featuring two overlapping tortillas filled with succulent meat, melty cheese, onions, cilantro, and guacamole—all for just $2.85. They provide a delightful crunch and an explosion of flavor that you won’t soon forget.

Don’t overlook their quesadilla supreme with carne asada, salsa fresca, and guacamole for only $4.50; it’s a perfect treat for cheese lovers craving a little indulgence. And for something sweetly unique, try their pineapple tamale or the elote for just $2.00 each, offering a refreshing twist on traditional Mexican fare.

Patrons have described the atmosphere as nostalgic and genuine, where vintage music plays softly in the background, immersing you in a cultural experience that feels warm and inviting. The staff are also known for their friendliness and attentiveness, creating an unpretentious dining experience that feels like a gathering at a friend’s home.

Rave reviews echo this sentiment; diners like RJ Martinez and Moses Cardoso mention not only the exceptional flavors in each dish but also the genuine skill that goes into preparation. Victoria Wolf highlights the freshness in every ingredient, especially the selection of homemade salsas that add the perfect kick to your meal. It’s a place that leaves you satisfied and eager to return, ensuring that you leave with a full belly and a smile.

With reasonable prices and a menu that caters to all tastes, Tacos El Panson serves as your go-to taco spot for a delectable escape right in the heart of San Diego. Whether you're dining in or taking out, this culinary haven promises to deliver a meal packed with love and flavor, ensuring you join the ranks of loyal patrons who have made it their favorite taco destination. Come hungry and ready to enjoy a true fiesta of tastes!

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fast service
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves comfort food
Serves late-night food
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has catering
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Popular with university students
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Paid street parking
Pets
Dogs allowed outside
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

9:30 AM - 10:00 PM

Tuesday

9:30 AM - 10:00 PM

Wednesday

9:30 AM - 10:00 PM

Thursday

9:30 AM - 10:00 PM

Friday

9:30 AM - 11:00 PM

Saturday

9:30 AM - 11:00 PM

Sunday

9:30 AM - 10:00 PM

697 Reviews
RJ Martinez

16 Sep 2025

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Tacos El Panson, a fantastic Mexican food that left me completely satisfied. The variety of Mexican food I tried was all delicious and full of flavor. Let's start with the burrito. It was bursting with fresh ingredients like grilled meat, fresh guacamole, and cheese. Each bite was a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The mulita was another standout. The combination of tender meat, melted cheese, and toasted tortillas were heavenly. It was a delicious treat for my taste buds. I couldn't resist trying the quesabirria, and it did not disappoint. The juicy meat, crispy tortilla, and flavorful cheese were a match made in foodie heaven. As a side, I ordered the fries, which were perfectly golden and seasoned just right. They added a satisfying crunch to my meal. Last but not least, the enchilada plate was a true winner. The enchiladas were filled with a mouthwatering blend of ingredients and topped with a flavorful sauce and melted cheese. It was a tasty celebration of Mexican flavors. The service at Tacos El Panson was exceptional. The staff was friendly and made me feel welcome. The atmosphere was lively and inviting, creating a pleasant eating experience. In conclusion, Tacos El Panson is a must-visit Mexican restaurant. Their burrito, mulita, quesabirria, fries, and enchilada plates are all fantastic choices. If you're looking for a delicious Mexican feast, don't hesitate to give them a try. Your taste buds will thank you!

Victoria Wolf

06 Sep 2025

What a great find! Excellent quality meat and delicious tacos - the flavours are amazing, everything tastes very fresh and there are three homemade spicy, zingy or smokey salsas. Highly recommend it!

Shyanne H

05 Sep 2025

I love their Al pastor tacos. Staff is always friendly and they have seating. You will not be disappointed.

Arthur T

15 Aug 2025

Solid taco spot on El Cajon! My good friend took me here and we had a great meal! I personally had the carne asada, lengua, and pastor tacos. Salsa is self serve, The tacos are on the 2-3 biter size. I did enjoy the carne asada the most! Seating inside. Street parking is extremely tough during peak hours. Surcharge for card use, so I recommend bringing cash.

Moses Cardoso

22 Jul 2025

This place is a hidden gem! I get tacos in Tijuana at least once a month and this place is on point. Wonderful fresh tortillas, the carne was grilled to crispy yet tender perfection, the adobada is cooked on a trompo, and the tripas were crispy on the outside and tender inside, the guacamole was made with ripe avocados ( no earthy flavor) and the salsa are super flavorful. This is my new favorite Taco spot!!!!

Colin Friedkin

10 Jul 2025

Tacos El Panson brings back the days when a burrito had heft, taco shops played VIVO videos of authentic vintage Mexican music on a big screen, and the only tables available were stainless steel. The prices are reasonable. Five stars. Absolutely. Go here.

Alex Barone

03 Jul 2025

I visited here on New Years Day hoping to find a lunch spot after a long run and Tacos El Panson delivered. The salsa bar was stocked, the food came quickly, and the service was friendly and attentive. We came hungry and enjoyed our food. I had the three tacos special with a drink which was super affordable with the fish, chicken, and carnitas tacos served alongside beans and rice. The fried fish had a slight aftertaste from the oil but the serving size and meat were good and filling. I also tasted the carne asada California burrito and the tortilla was perfect. I hope to return and try more tacos, especially the adobada which I regret not ordering. The mild salsa is perfectly smoky and a little sweet, but all three options were packed with flavor.

Alex Sohn

03 Jul 2025

The BEST Adobada local taco spot in SD hands down! Ask for grilled hot pepper!

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