San Diego Taco Crawl - A Curated Tour of San Diego's Best Tacos - Private Tour

San Diego , United States of America

San Diego Taco Crawl - A Curated Tour of San Diego's Best Tacos - Private Tour

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About this experience

Mexico's best tacos (and thus the best tacos in the world!) are found just over the border from San Diego, in Tijuana and Ensenada, where we also lead amazing street food tours... But if you don't have your passports, or you just don't have time to devote a day to explore the vibrant culinary scene south of the border, and you are interested eating some of the best tacos found outside of Mexico, this is your tour!

Mexicans living in San Diego can't always make it over the border to enjoy their beloved street tacos. We'll take you to where they eat in San Diego. At these hole-in-the wall joints and taco trucks, you're more likely to hear Spanish spoken over English, but don't worry, our expert bilingual gastroguides will take care of the translating for you!

And while you'll spend most of the day getting down and dirty with San Diego's best street tacos (you eat tacos with your hands!), we'll end at an upscale gourmet taco bar that also serves Baja microbrews and craft cocktails.

Available options

San Diego Taco Crawl - A Curated Tour of San Diego's Best Tacos - Private Tour

What's included

Fuel, road tolls, and parking fees are included with your tour fee.

Bottled water

AVG. PER-PERSON FOOD & BEVERAGE BUDGET IS $25 - YOU WILL PAY FOR ALL YOUR OWN CONSUMPTION.

Air-conditioned vehicle

Your gastroguide is a local taco expert, and will help guide and enhance your tasting experience!

This taco crawl is not recommended for strict vegetarians, vegans, or picky eaters.

What's not included

THIS IS A NO-HOST TACO CRAWL: while we will certainly guide you based on our expert knowledge, you'll make your own buying decisions and pay vendors directly for your consumption on this tour.

Gratuities

THIS IS A NO-HOST TACO CRAWL: while we will certainly guide you based on our expert knowledge, you'll make your own buying decisions and pay vendors directly for your consumption on this tour.

FIVE (5) HOURS ARE INCLUDED WITH YOUR TOUR FEE - after five hours, additional fees will apply.

OVERTIME FEES: $95/hour will be charged for every hour over five (5) rounded up the nearest ½ hour.

OVERTIME POLICY: It your sole responsibility to manage your tour time; overtime charges apply.

Your total tour time is calculated from your scheduled meeting time to your actual drop-off time.

ADDITIONAL DEPOSIT REQUIRED: in addition to you tour fees, a $500 refundable deposit is required.

$500 deposit will cover any time overage and/or vehicle damage, excess wear, and/or excess cleaning.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Participants must be sober at the inception of the tour. If the trip director deems that a participant is under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs at the inception of the tour (in his/her sole yet reasonable judgement), that participant will be dismissed and will not be allowed to participate in the tour. There will be no refunds, credits, or rescheduling allowances for dismissal due to insobriety at the inception of a tour/workshop.

Everyone in your group must agree to and sign/submit the Baja Test Kitchen Participation Agreement (release of liability) at least 24-hours prior to departure.

Your payment for this experience constitutes your full acceptance of the Terms, Conditions, and Tour Policies found on the Baja Test Kitchen website.

All BTK food and beverage vendors utilize kitchen facilities that may process nuts (including peanuts and tree nuts), shellfish, fish, milk, eggs, wheat/gluten, soy, honey, and citrus. Accordingly, it is impossible to guarantee that trace amounts of these ingredients would not be found in ANY dish/food served.

This culinary experience is not well suited for strict vegetarians, vegans, or picky eaters.

While this experience is open to participants of all ages, the minimum age to drink alcoholic beverages in the United States is 21 years old. A parent or legal guardian must accompany minors (if you have a different surname than that of your child, you must carry legal documentation affirming your parental/guardian rights).

Children under 8 years old (or less than 4'9” tall) must be seated in an appropriate car seat or booster seat. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO BRING YOUR OWN CAR SEAT/BOOSTER SEAT - WE DO NOT PROVIDE CAR SEATS OR BOOSTER SEATS AND YOUR SMALL CHILDREN WILL NOT BE ABLE TO PARTICIPATE WITHOUT THE APPROPRIATE CAR SEAT/BOOSTER SEAT.

Our tour vans only have three (3) seats with the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system installed. YOU MUST BRING ALL NECESSARY STRAPS, TETHERS, BUCKLES, AND/OR EQUIPMENT TO PROPERLY INSTALL YOUR CAR SEATS OR BOOSTERS. Our guides/drivers are not allowed to assist with the installation of car seats or boosters - you are advised to bring the installation instructions with you. Your tour time includes the time required to install and remove car seats and boosters.

If you have more than 10 people in your group, we will not be able to accommodate strollers or luggage (we must remove the back seats in order to accommodate luggage, strollers, etc. - this arrangement must be made at least 48-hours in advance of your tour’s scheduled departure time). LUGGAGE SPACE IS LIMITED. Please contact Baja Test Kitchen to ask about the transport of your luggage, strollers, etc. before booking this experience.

Meeting point

This tour meets at the Palomar Street Transit Center in Chula Vista (Chula Vista is an incorporated city located within San Diego County, just south of downtown San Diego). You may take the San Diego Trolly Blue Line (https://www.sdmts.com/schedules-real-time-maps-and-routes/trolley) to the station.

Important notes

YOU MUST EMAIL BAJA TEST KITCHEN WITHIN 24-HOURS OF BOOKING YOUR TOUR to request more detailed information about your tour, including important logistical information (e.g. meeting point directions). Email tours@bajatestkitchen.com and include your full name, your tour date, and your TripAdvisor/Viator confirmation number in the subject of your email.

Every adult in your group must agree to and sign/submit the Baja Test Kitchen Participation Agreement (release of liability) at least three (3) days prior to departure.

Your payment for this experience constitutes your full acceptance of the Terms, Conditions, and Tour Policies found on the Baja Test Kitchen website at https://www.bajatestkitchen.com/policies.

Failure to arrive at the designated meeting point on time will constitute your cancellation without refund, credit, or rescheduling allowance.

While this experience is open to participants of all ages, the minimum age to drink alcoholic beverages in the United States is 21 years old. A parent or legal guardian must accompany minors.

Children under 8 years old (or less than 4'9” tall) must be seated in an appropriate car seat or booster seat. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO BRING YOUR OWN CAR SEAT/BOOSTER SEAT - WE DO NOT PROVIDE CAR SEATS OR BOOSTER SEATS AND YOUR SMALL CHILDREN WILL NOT BE ABLE TO PARTICIPATE WITHOUT THE APPROPRIATE CAR SEAT/BOOSTER SEAT.

Our vans only have three (3) seats with the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system installed. YOU MUST BRING ALL NECESSARY STRAPS, TETHERS, BUCKLES, AND/OR EQUIPMENT TO PROPERLY INSTALL YOUR CAR SEATS OR BOOSTERS. Our guides/drivers are not allowed to assist with the installation of car seats or boosters - you are advised to bring the installation instructions with you.

LUGGAGE SPACE IS LIMITED. Please contact Baja Test Kitchen to ask about the transport of your luggage, strollers, etc. before booking this experience.

About San Diego

San Diego is known for its mild year-round climate, extensive beaches, and beautiful parks. It's a vibrant city that offers a mix of urban attractions, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures, making it a popular destination for travelers of all kinds.

Top Attractions

San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is one of the most famous zoos in the world, known for its extensive collection of animals and beautiful landscaping. It's a must-visit for animal lovers and families.

Zoo 4-6 hours Expensive (around $60 for adults, $48 for children)

Balboa Park

Balboa Park is a 1,200-acre urban cultural park that houses museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo. It's a great place to spend a day exploring art, history, and nature.

Park Half day to full day Free (some attractions require admission fees)

La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove is a beautiful coastal area known for its sea caves, tide pools, and marine life. It's a popular spot for snorkeling, kayaking, and whale watching.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some activities require fees)

USS Midway Museum

The USS Midway Museum is a historic aircraft carrier that has been converted into a museum. Visitors can explore the ship's decks, hangars, and exhibits, and even take a simulated flight in a fighter jet.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate (around $26 for adults, $12 for children)

Gaslamp Quarter

The Gaslamp Quarter is a historic neighborhood known for its Victorian-era buildings, restaurants, bars, and nightlife. It's a great place to explore the city's history and enjoy its vibrant atmosphere.

Historical 2-4 hours Free (some attractions require fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fish Tacos

A San Diego specialty, fish tacos are made with fresh, locally caught fish, usually served with cabbage slaw and a creamy sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Gluten-free options available

Burrata

A creamy, rich Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream, often served with bread and olive oil.

Appetizer Vegetarian

Birria Tacos

A Mexican dish made with slow-cooked, spiced meat, usually served with corn tortillas and consommé for dipping.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian options available

Avocado Toast

A popular breakfast and brunch dish made with toasted bread, mashed avocado, and various toppings.

Breakfast/Brunch Vegetarian, Vegan options available

Popular Activities

Surfing Kayaking Hiking Beachcombing Picnicking Spas Museums Art galleries

Best Time to Visit

March to May and September to November

These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. It's ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15-24°C 59-75°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-8 (Pacific Standard Time, PST) or GMT-7 (Pacific Daylight Time, PDT) during daylight saving time

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

San Diego is generally a safe city, with low crime rates compared to other major cities in the United States. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis or rideshare services, and avoid unmarked taxis.
• Keep your valuables secure and out of sight, especially in your car or when using public transportation.

Getting there

By air

San Diego International Airport • 3 miles (5 km) from downtown

By train

San Diego Santa Fe Depot

By bus

Greyhound Station, San Diego Metro Transit Center

Getting around

Public transport

The MTS bus system covers the entire city and is affordable and reliable. Buses are a good option for getting around, especially during off-peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Gaslamp Quarter La Jolla Little Italy Pacific Beach Hillcrest

Day trips

Coronado Island

6 miles (10 km) from downtown • Half day to full day

Coronado Island is a beautiful beach town known for its historic Hotel del Coronado, sandy beaches, and scenic views. It's a great place to relax, enjoy the sun, and explore the island's history.

Tijuana

20 miles (32 km) from downtown • Full day

Tijuana is a vibrant border city known for its Mexican cuisine, nightlife, and cultural attractions. It's a great place to experience authentic Mexican culture and enjoy its culinary scene.

Temecula Valley Wine Country

60 miles (97 km) from downtown • Full day

Temecula Valley Wine Country is a picturesque region known for its wineries, vineyards, and scenic views. It's a great place to spend a day tasting wine, enjoying the countryside, and relaxing.

Festivals

Comic-Con International • July San Diego International Film Festival • October San Diego Street Food Festival • June

Pro tips

Visit Balboa Park early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
Explore the city's beaches and coastal areas, such as La Jolla Cove and Coronado Island, for stunning views and unique experiences.
Try San Diego's famous fish tacos and craft beer at local restaurants and breweries.
Take a guided tour of the USS Midway Museum for a behind-the-scenes look at this historic aircraft carrier.
Visit during the off-peak season (December to February) for fewer crowds and lower prices.