The Best Tacos in Southern California

Don’t let this hard to find restaurant (its tucked among shops in a courtyard away from the action) deter you from visiting. Because once you arrive, you’re met with house-made Cultura mole with smoked pork, along with a slew of freshly made tortillas and lightly pickled vegetable slaw. Save room for dessert though, because dark Oaxacan chocolate brownies with a touch of chili and cinnamon cloaked in ganache await.

The name of the game at this Oaxacan eatery is mole. In fact, even their website address is ilovemole.com. From rojo moles to mole estofado and mole coloradito, come here for a true taste of one of Mexico’s most beloved sauces.

Bold and enticing flavors meet Moroccan-Baja cooking at chef Alia Jaziri’s San Diego spot. Dishes here are influenced by the local area and chef’s family heritage, resulting in a fast-casual menu with hits like Moroccan-spiced chicken tacos dressed with preserved lemon and tzatziki-inspired crema and couscous bowls layered with merguez, black beans, queso fresco and toasted pepitas.

Exposed ducts, brick walls, and glass-blocked windows mark the spot at this local gem. Inside, an open kitchen pushes out favorites like chunky guacamole, tostaditas de ceviche and enchiladas de mole.