I saw California Tacos To Go on "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" which means it was automatic that I assessed the place for myself. I tried three different tacos and my mouth became infatuated with all 3 but the "Original" Grouper Fish Taco with extra Juan's White Sauce stole the show. That flavor combination was "out of bounds." Been here twice already and I guarantee there'll be a third time. Triple D tested....Bayou Gator approved.
I really like this place on a nice day, seating is outdoors and depending on the time of day shade is sparse. The fish tacos are what made them famous, and what I get when I go. The Guy Fieri is their original fish taco with hot sauce, which has become my "usual" when I'm in town.
![Zomato]( "Recensione")
I was introduced to fish tacos in the 1990s while on business in Los Angeles when a friend introduced me to Wahoo's Fish Taco. Some 5 years later I moved to Orange County and spent the next three years of my adult life in coastal Southern California. During this time I developed very high expectations of Pacific-style Mexican food. Especially when it comes to fish tacos.
Since moving back home to Tampa, I've become very disenchanted with the Mexican food here (with Mekenita being the exception). A side note for those that know me: while I love Chipotle, I don't consider it “Mexican". Imagine my surprise while driving down the road and seeing "California Tacos". I'm always drawn to any references to the perfect climate of my former residence. When I hear "California Taco" I immediately think of hanging out on _______ (fill in the blank) Beach eating street tacos and watching surfers.
My skepticism was naturally at a 10, but curiosity combined with hunger was at a 10.5.
We turned around and am I glad we did!!
What I liked: the food! I've tried a number of things over my visits here. The fish (grouper) tacos stand out, but the chicken and pork tacos are also outstanding! The only thing that would make the food better is a beach.
Seriously. That's what's missing.
What I don't like: the packaging. Unfortunately, this is a true taco stand: everything is served "to go". Even though there are some picnic tables there that you can eat at, the food is served in environmentally unfriendly styrofoam packaging (note: I've only purchased tacos - never burritos, etc). I only include this as I hope the owner will look to find an inexpensive alternative to the styrofoam packaging (or eventually expand and/or have more reusable containers). A true "California" focus should include this kind of consciousness.
So far this has been my favorite Mexican eatery in Tampa. Comes very close to the Baja style that I fell in love with back in San Diego. The rolled tacos could use a little tweaking to get right, but the Carne Asada is the best I have found in Tampa. For something a little different get the Carne Asada Nachos, huge serving and best nachos in town.The Carne Asada Burrito is also a good bet, again huge with the focus on the steak. Be aware if you go that the only seating is outdoors so not a good choice when there is any chance of rain. They have a second location now in South Tampa, that does have indoor seating.
Best fish tacos in Tampa. They're loaded fish tacos are just amazing. I'm not sure what's up with the negative reviews about service the times I've went they were very friendly there and got my food quick. Also their carne asada fries are awesome
Huge Burrito. I just recent took my boyfriend there for the first time and he was in heaven. As a chef he can be pretty picky himself but he was very happy. He ordered the pork tacos and pork rinds and I got the burrito (not the one pounder). Mine was so fresh it was amazing, and he said the tacos were the best pork tacos he has had. And there is nothing better to a man than some pig fat, the serving was huge for those!!! Not over cooked at all, which most places do. The wait is a little long but how can you get upset with that when its made to order and completely fresh when it gets to you. Tastes best when you eat it right away. We are already planning a return trip with some newbies to Tampa!!
Great service and fabulous fish tacos! Be prepared to either take out or eat outside with no fans. Great local experience!
Tacos are solid. The only negative here is eating outside and the blaring reggae music.
Why bother, your not gonna taste it. Cali burrito is where it's at. Love the place.
Cali Tacos is the best Taco place in town, better than taco bus for sure.
California Tacos is a solid taco choice!
This awesome taco Shack has been around for a few years and I've been coming since 2014. I've always been a huge fan of the amped tacos. They use fresh veggies and have some of the best meats for tacos. I'm a big fan of the carnitas as well as the shrimp/chorizo. If you get lucky you can get chicharrones which they run out of very very quickly. They also have decent horchata.
Food takes about 10/15 minutes to come out and prices are pretty fair.
Outside seating and online ahead ordering are offered but no inside dining at this location. I'd say if you are in the mood for really good tacos this place is worth the trip.
The fish tacos! I had to order an extra one after already eating two tacos.
Great little spot with a few Taco selections. I definitely recommend, especially on a beautiful day out.
I highly recommend the Carne Asada fries! Fries, meat, cheese, sour cream, tomato, guacamole, onion, maybe more.
Although one day they were out of the Carne Asada and I was "forced" to have the Cali Fries with ground beef. I was not disappointed in the least. Don't miss out.
It does get busy and the wait times can be long so call ahead if possible!
Thank you Jason. We ordered the grouper tacos. Jason prepared them for us after taking our order. The tacos were done quickly. They tasted fresh and delicious. Spice note: medium is very, very mild.
The fish tacos are the best I have ever had! The combination of the crunchiness from the tempura batter, the mild flavor of the grouper, the white corn tortillas and the slaw is like manna from Heaven.
This is a cute "take out" place only, but I also found out that they cater and will deliver as well.
If you are really hungry, I say check out the gigantic burrito!
I will be back again and again!
Can't believe I've been in the area so many times but knew nothing about this gem! It is more like a food truck than a restaurant but without the truck. It's a really small building with some picnic tables outside for seating.
You just pick the type of meat you want and at what spice level then your toppings and you're good to go. The tortillas are about 6" so hey are a bit bigger than most specialty taco places. I got the carne asada and carnitas tacos and it was very filling for a lunch. The tortillas were very fresh. I was pleasantly surprised at how good the food was. You just order at the window and they deliver your food.
I will be back for sure now that I know this place exists. Awesome find!!
Awesome food! Well worth every penny. Will definitely be going back regularly. Friendly staff, great ingredients and awesome flavor.
Food is always on point. I only visit during the cooler months of the year as it is only outside seating and not much shade. My only complaint is you never know what kind of service you are going to get. It is definitely worth a trip.
Their San Diego rolled tacos are the best!!!! Always great service and very friendly. My go to place when I want something quick to pick up on the way home!
Great California style tacos at a great price! Once in a while they will have a Groupon for a few dollars off a combo.
Make a reservation
Order online
Find the best restaurant in Tampa
An error has occurred! Please try again in a few minutes