One of Tijuana’s most iconic taquerias to open second location in San Diego
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- San Diego taco lovers, get ready: one of Tijuana’s most legendary taquerias is heading to the heart of downtown.
Tacos El Franc, the Michelin-recognized eatery known for its sizzling adobada and mesquite-grilled meats, will open its second United States location in the Gaslamp Quarter on Oct. 8, 2025, the restaurant's owners announced last month.
The new taqueria, located at 528 5th Ave., marks the next step in the Baja-born brand’s expansion into the states, following the success of its first U.S. location at Westfield Plaza Bonita in National City.
“We’ve been blown away by the response to Tacos El Franc here in the U.S., and this new location is an exciting next step as we look towards expanding throughout California and into neighboring states,” said Roberto Kelly, co-owner of Tacos El Franc USA. “We are still seeing lines out the door at Plaza Bonita, and we’re excited to now bring the same great taste and quality to downtown so we can serve even more people every day.”
Unlike the sit-down service at Plaza Bonita, the Gaslamp location will focus on quick, counter-style service designed to serve on-the-go and late-night diners. Guests can still expect authentic preparation—charcoal grills, traditional mesquite cooking, as well as a brigade-style kitchen with taqueros manning the disco, steamer and trompo.
On the menu, guests can expect fan favorites like tacos de adobada, carne asada, cabeza, suadero, and tripa, along with 32-ounce Caguamas and a San Diego-exclusive dish—beef tallow fries topped with a variety of proteins.
Tacos El Franc began as a humble street cart in Tijuana in 1974, founded by Javier Valadez. The brand opened its first brick-and-mortar location in 1996 and quickly became a cultural icon. It now boasts back-to-back Michelin Guide recognitions in 2024 and 2025 and was recently featured on Netflix’s "Taco Chronicles."
The Gaslamp location officially opens to the public at 4 p.m. on Oct. 8. For more information and updates, visit www.tacoselfranc.com.
