Rubio's Coastal Grill

They used to be the only game in town, they practically invented the fish taco (actually started in baja). They have waxed and waned over the years and now I think many other restaurants have better fish tacos. Their deep fried fish is now particularly sketchy, sometimes downright disgusting. Their grilled fish tacos are much better, however they use some kind of burnt corn Chipotle sauce on them that isn't as good as the "white sauce" on regular fish tacos. They can be hit and miss on quality, not always consistent.

Rubio’s has some of the best seafood tacos and burritos around. I still remember thinking it was really odd when someone told me about fish tacos when I first moved to San Diego in the 1990’s. At the time it did not sound like an appetizing combination. Oh, how wrong I was! Fortunately I quickly learned how delicious fish and shrimp tacos are. Rubio’s has been a local icon for years. They continually tweak their menu and introduce new items and ingredients to adapt to changing dietary preferences. Their ingredients are always fresh and they have many more healthy items compared to the more traditional Mexican taco shops around San Diego.

I’ve been here several times and the staff are always in compliance with new health regulations regarding masks and gloves. I appreciate it. As you can see in the photos the place is spotlessly clean, efficiently organized, and reassuringly safe. The consistently excellent service and great food is still there!