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Tacos El Franc

4.4

About this business

Location details

528 5th Ave, San Diego, CA, 92101, United States

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WeekdayScheduleStatus
Mon11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Tue11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Wed11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Thu11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Fri11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Sat11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Sun11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
4.4732 reviews
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Salman S.'s profile image
Salman S. 
rating
6 months ago

After a concert, I was starving and stumbled upon Tacos El Franc for a late-night snack, and wow, what a find! This spot is a gem for satisfying those post-show cravings. I ordered the adobada taco with guacamole and pineapple, and it was a flavor explosion. The adobada was perfectly spiced--juicy, smoky, and packing just the right amount of heat. The pineapple was a brilliant touch, adding a sweet, tangy balance that cut through the spice and elevated every bite. The guacamole was fresh and creamy, tying it all together on ... read more

Business response:

Salman!! Gracias! We’re so happy you chose us as your new spot. We’ll be here waiting for you every night! 

Crystal R.'s profile image
Crystal R. 
rating
6 months ago

Couple of my friends and I came in on a late Saturday night. I can only speak for the veggie tacos, because when we got there everything else was sold out (congrats yall) but they were delicious! The beans had so much flavor and the salsa was delicious. The manager Guillermo invited us in and was super friendly. Keep up the good vibes. I'll be back :) 

Business response:

Gracias Crystal! Thank you so much for the amazing review! Hope you guys visit us again soon! 

Zariah L.'s profile image
Zariah L. 
rating
6 months ago

Everything was great! Service and food is spot on. I personally loved their carne asada and adobada tacos! Can't wait to go back soon and try their asada fries. 

Soo H.'s profile image
Soo H. 
rating
6 months ago

Tacos El Franc began in 1996 when Don Javier Valadez opened a taqueria in Tijuana.  In 2024 and 2025 Michelin Guide recognized the Tijuana location.Night falls and there is a light chill in the air.  Roberto Kelly opened The Gaslamp location October 8 the second in San Diego. Tacos El Franc shines in the darkness.  Inside it's warm.  I order at the counter.  Through the window I see a mound of masa.  They make corn tortillas to order. Carne taco features fresh corn tortilla which was soft and had a delicious light corn fla... read more

Natalie F.'s profile image
Natalie F. 
rating
6 months ago

Stopped here last night with a girlfriend and was so happy they opened a Tacos El Franc in Gaslamp! Service was quick and the staff was nice and efficient. The general manager, Guillermo, was walking around greeting people and checking in and making sure people were enjoying their food. He definitely spread a great energy especially since they've only been open a few days. We got 2 adobada tacos. You can see them slicing from the pork wheel in the back :) we were able to try the flan and horchata too and they were delicious... read more

Benny L.'s profile image
Benny L. 
rating
6 months ago

Tacos El Franc strikes a strong balance between tradition and elevated taco craft. This isn't your typical "fast taco stand" -- it's a taquería refined through decades of love for the grill. For fans of authentic Tijuana-style tacos, it's worth the hype. If you go, try the adobada 

Business response:

Thank you Benny! We’re excited you think so! And you’re right. We don’t just sell tacos. We make traditional tacos for our clients to enjoy. Some things shouldn’t change. Welcome to tacos el franc! 

Kyle H.'s profile image
Kyle H. 
rating
6 months ago

Will never eat a taco anywhere else in San Diego. Staff are polite and efficient. Great location! 

Business response:

Kyle!!! Muchas Gracias!! We’re here for you from this day forward and forever! 

Ali S.'s profile image
Ali S. 
rating
6 months ago

From the Netflix docuseries, Taco Chronicles, and Michelin Star fame at the original location, Tacos El Franc finally arrives in downtown San Diego and are you in for a treat! The location, perfect, right on Fifth Avenue in the heart of the Gaslamp. The staff, amazing, very friendly and have great recommendations. Everyone was very nice and thanked us for coming. It was like being at a friend or family members place. The food, oh the food! Loved loved loved the asada tacos, so classic and so perfect. We had three and devo... read more

Business response:

Ali! Gracias! This is an amazing review. You’re so kind. 

Aly H.'s profile image
Aly H. 
rating
6 months ago

CONGRATULATIONS to TACOS EL FRANC My family and I went to the Grand Opening at downtown. They never disappoint, always keep their traditional flavor, which is why they are the number one tacos in TJ and Cali. My mother doesn't speak English but was delighted with Tony personality definitely made his day. Definitely everyone should come try their unique flavor the traditional Tijuana style tacos Welcome to downtown, and I wish you all the success you deserve. 1000/1000 

Business response:

Aly!! Thank you so much for your beautiful review. We’re very happy you enjoyed our tacos! Please come back soon! 

Frequently asked questions about Tacos El Franc

How is Tacos El Franc rated?

Tacos El Franc has a 4.4 star rating with 732 reviews. 

When is Tacos El Franc open?

Tacos El Franc is closed now. It will open at 11:00 a.m.