Best Tacos in San Jose: Top Spots to Try
Let’s be real — if you know San Jose, you know it lives for tacos.
Whether it’s a late-night craving after a Sharks game, a quick lunch in between meetings, or a weekend hunt for something special, tacos are basically a love language around here. And the best ones? They usually come from low-key spots — the kind you might miss if you weren’t paying attention.
This isn’t a list of trendy Instagram taco joints. This is for the real ones. For the folks who want tacos that hit you with flavor, soul, and maybe a little grease on the napkin. Let’s get into it!
This is one of those places that you don’t just stumble across — someone tells you about it. It’s tucked into a strip mall, no frills, but always packed with regulars who know what’s up.
The scent of grilled meat hits you before you even step out of the car. Their carne asada? Juicy and rich. The al pastor? Sweet, spicy, and caramelized on the edges just right.
Location: King Rd – East San Jose
What to order: Carne asada and al pastor tacos. Load ‘em up with grilled goodies. Heads up: It’s cash only and there’s almost always a wait — but that’s the sign of greatness.
Ah, La Vic. A San Jose icon. Ask any local and they’ll talk about it with nostalgia, reverence… and most likely, a story involving that orange sauce.
The food is solid — grilled chicken tacos, carne asada, all the staples — but it’s that orange sauce that makes it legendary. It’s smoky, tangy, kind of addictive. Every bite feels like a right of passage.
Location: East San Carlos (OG), plus Alum Rock & Saratoga Ave
What to order: Chicken tacos drowned in orange sauce. Trust us.
Local tip: The OG spot on East San Carlos near SJSU just hits different — especially late at night.
If taco trucks are your vibe, you have to find this one. Parked in a strip mall lot off Capitol Expressway, Tacos Los 3 Hermanos is where flavor meets hustle.
The tripas are crispy perfection, the carnitas melt in your mouth, and the salsas? Fire. This is the kind of spot where you order two tacos, take a bite, and immediately go back for three more.
Location: Capitol Expressway & Snell – South San Jose
What to order: Tripas if you’re feeling bold. Carnitas if you want to play it safe but still win.
Best time to go: Prime taco hours are 6–8 PM — that’s when they’re cranking out the freshest batches.
Now if you’re in the mood for something a bit more refined — but still deeply rooted in tradition — Luna is a must. It’s got sit-down vibes with a gorgeous patio, but the food is still all heart. Organic ingredients, handmade tortillas, and slow-cooked everything. You can taste the love in every bite. It’s upscale, but not fussy.
Location: The Alameda – Near Rose Garden
What to order: Tacos de pescado or their slow-braised barbacoa.
Pro tip: Book ahead for dinner on weekends — this place fills up fast, especially when the sun’s out and the patio is calling.
This spot flies under the radar downtown, but those who know it? They really know it. Tacos El Rey is fast, flavorful, and perfectly placed for a quick stop before a night out in SoFA. Their adobada is packed with spice and char, and the lengua? Surprisingly tender and flavorful. Pair either with their spicy green salsa and you’re set.
Location: South First Street – SoFA District, Downtown SJ
What to order: Adobada and lengua tacos with the green salsa.
Local vibe: Grab a seat outside if the weather’s good. Great people-watching while you crush some tacos.
If carnitas are your love language, welcome home.
Carnitas Tijuana is all about the pig. Fall-apart tender, crispy on the edges, and full of rich, savory goodness. Whether you like your carnitas lean or fatty (or a mix), they’ve got it dialed in.
Location: Bascom Ave – Near Fruitdale Station
What to order: Carnitas tacos, mixtos-style to get a mix of cuts.
Heads up: It gets packed on weekends — call ahead if you’re ordering for a group.
Tacos in San Jose aren’t just food — they’re part of the rhythm of the city. They’re tied to memories, celebrations and that universal joy of finding a taco so good you stop mid-bite just to say, “Damn, this is fire.”
The scene here reflects the city: vibrant, diverse, and full of character. You’ll find multi-generational taquerias, newer spots putting a fresh spin on tradition, and trucks slinging tacos that could go toe-to-toe with the best in LA.
So next time the craving hits, skip the chains. Follow the smell of grilled meats, the line of locals, and the sound of tortillas sizzling on a flat-top. You’ll be rewarded with some of the best tacos you’ve ever had — right here in the South Bay. Got a favorite taco spot I missed? Let’s talk tacos — I’m always down for a new recommendation.