El Patron Taco Shop

El Patron Taco Shop

675 Saturn Blvd, San Diego, CA 92154, United States

+1 619-429-8226

Mexican restaurant, Restaurant
(372)
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About This Place

El Patron Taco Shop, nestled in the vibrant heart of San Diego at 675 Saturn Blvd, delivers an authentic Mexican dining experience that celebrates traditional flavors with a fresh, local twist. Specializing in classic Mexican fare, this bustling taco shop is a must-visit for anyone craving hearty, flavor-packed dishes that capture the essence of Southern California’s beloved taco culture.

Step inside, and you’re greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere typical of a beloved neighborhood taqueria. The friendly, hardworking staff are not only dedicated but also create a welcoming vibe that makes every visit enjoyable, even during busy rush hours.

El Patron’s menu is filled with highlights perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Breakfast lovers should not miss the Sunrise Enchiladas—corn tortillas layered with beans and eggs, topped with the shop’s signature homemade enchilada sauce and melted cheese, delivering a comforting, savory start to the day. The Crunch Breakfast Chipotle offers a smoky, spicy hug of flavors that kick-start your morning with a smile.

For taco aficionados, the California Burrito holds a near-legendary status. Handmade with generous portions of tender, perfectly seasoned carne asada, fresh guacamole, creamy sour cream, salsa fresca, and crispy fries wrapped inside a warm tortilla, this burrito is a hearty and satisfying indulgence. While some reviewers noted that the fries can occasionally lean toward mushy and the salsas might benefit from a touch more salt, the overall flavor balance and ingredient ratios are consistently praised. The carne asada itself is a standout—succulent and smoky with just the right charred bits to add texture and depth.

Beyond burritos, El Patron’s tortas make a compelling case for a visit. Options like the Adobada (marinated grilled pork) and the hometown-style Carnitas come packed with fresh guacamole and salsa fresca, delivering each bite rich with authentic, bold tastes that transport you straight to a street vendor in Mexico. The menu also features versatile breakfast plates such as Huevos Rancheros and Chilaquiles, perfect for a fulfilling breakfast that stays true to traditional flavors.

Don’t overlook the Carne Asada Fries or Carne Asada Chips either—both layered generously with steak, beans, guacamole, sour cream, salsa fresca, and cheese, combining layers of textures and flavors that excite the palate.

Customers appreciate not only the food but the service and atmosphere. Reviews highlight the friendly, attentive cashiers, efficient order handling, and the energetic, upbeat environment that welcomes guests with open arms. While one customer quipped about a few eggshells in their breakfast burrito, they still expressed appreciation for the staff’s friendliness and overall quality—proof of El Patron’s commitment to customer satisfaction and community.

Whether you’re a local craving your next taco fix or a traveler eager to dive into authentic Mexican flavors in San Diego, El Patron Taco Shop stands out as a genuine, flavor-packed destination. Its combination of quality ingredients, hearty portions, and authentic recipes ensures you’re in for a satisfying, memorable meal every time.

For a vibrant taste of Mexico with a Southern California spin, El Patron Taco Shop is well worth the visit.

Service options
Delivery Takeaway Dine-in
Highlights
Fast service
Popular for
Breakfast Lunch Dinner Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol Cocktails Comfort food Late-night food Quick bite Small plates
Dining options
Breakfast Brunch Lunch Dinner Catering Seating Table service
Amenities
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Crowd
Family friendly Groups
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids High chairs Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking Free parking lot Parking

Opening Hours

  • Monday
    07:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Tuesday
    07:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Wednesday
    07:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Thursday
    07:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Friday
    07:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Saturday
    07:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Sunday
    07:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Map & Directions

Visitor Reviews

  • David Angel Lopez
    3 week ago

    Came here for the famous California burrito and I was satisfied with it and the price. The fries were a bit mushy but it came with everything already in it. It came with guacamole, pico de gallo, sour cream and cheese. The ratio of the ingredients were really nice and plenty of steak. The salsa were ok and everything needed just a bit more seasoning or salt in them including the salsa. The salsa were average but I feel the orange one was the best one. The lady at the front was really nice and helped the experience. I also had a Jamaica and I really liked it also. I would recommend this place to a friend if they wanted something affordable and were in the area.

  • Ericka Garcia Luna
    3 week ago

    We had the California burrito because the taco fiend on TikTok recommended it and it was really good. I wouldn’t say it’s the best California burrito I’ve ever had but it was really good. If you want the best California burrito I recommend going to Las Ahumaderas lol

  • Marcos Castaneda
    1 month ago

    On my way in you get this classic south California taco shop atmosphere. I ordered a California Burrito and two plain asada tacos. GREAT price for the Cali Burrito, on top of that the flavors you get are by far some of the best i’ve tried. The asada is seasoned perfectly, you get charred bits, and a smokey scent. The fries were still crispy inside, the guacamole is amazing, and the sour cream tops it off. I ordered mine without pico de gallo since I don’t like it to get too mushy. The flour tortilla was also amazing since it’s thin and I didn’t get that clumped up tortilla on the ends iykyk. The plain asada tacos were for my son and he devoured them, so it’s toddler approved hahah. I tried the red sauce which was flavorful and mid level spicy, I also tried the green salsa which was also mid level spicy and it has that great sour taste from the tomatillo. I ordered the flan and the texture and taste was great as well as the caramel around it (I’m used to a more thick caramel, but it was still sweet and delicious). Keep doing what you’re doing!

  • LoaRayluv Doea3
    1 month ago

    We come here to eat sometimes. The cashiers are friendly and awesome. Today I ordered a steak egg burrito. I don't mind a piece of egg shell. I can handle. But a couple egg shells in my eggs a bit too much for some crunchy eggs. C'mon now!! Be considerate that some folks don't like they eggs crunchy. Muchas Gracias. I still gave them some good stars because the cashiers are friendly and everyone xeserve a second chance

  • Keenan M
    2 month ago

    I frequent this spot as a customer and for making delivery pickups and it’s always a great experience. The team is hardworking, welcoming, and very consistent. Orders are handled efficiently, and the atmosphere is positive even during rushes. A well-run local place that clearly takes pride in what they do.

  • Toni Panchos
    2 month ago

    I can't believe the size of their special breaksfast burrito!!! The price is also very good! The lady that works in the morning is so kind. There was a not si friendly lady there on a Saturday morning, hope I never run into her again. Needs some customer training Iam afraid to say. But will not let her attitude prevent me from giving this place 5 stars. So I came here when I saw Tio Taco on TT recommending this place! I love this place!! One of my favorites in all is San Diego!!! Great portions, great food, great prices!!!

  • Samantha McCoy
    2 month ago

    One of my go-to taco shops. The food is really good, well packed, and just good value for the price. I’ve only seen one lady at the cash register and she is so sweet. She’s bilingual and just lovely. The place is a little small and has a narrow setup, but it is always very clean, especially their salsa table.

  • d b
    4 month ago

    Local IB taco shop that hits it out of the park! Cali burrito was great and the adobada mini tacos were fantastic! Meats were seasoned perfectly! It was very busy with contact foot traffic - and understandably so! Salsa bar was good too. Will be back!

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