El Pueblo: Home of $1.29 Fish Tacos, Community Roots, and Quality Mexican Food
Discover El Pueblo, the San Diego favorite known for its iconic $1.29 fish tacos and authentic Mexican cuisine. With four locations across Del Mar, Carlsbad, Cardiff, and Carmel Valley, El Pueblo combines fresh, high-quality ingredients with a welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy scratch-made dishes, handcrafted cocktails, and a sense of community rooted in exceptional service. Perfect for a casual meal or lively night out, El Pueblo is your go-to destination for the best Mexican food and unbeatable value in San Diego.
In the heart of San Diego County, El Pueblo is redefining what it means to enjoy authentic Mexican food. Known as the home of the $1.29 fish taco and boasting four bustling locations in Del Mar, Carlsbad, Cardiff, and Carmel Valley, this local favorite has built a reputation for high-quality ingredients, exceptional service, and a dedication to its customers that goes beyond the plate.
We had the pleasure of speaking with Nony, General Manager of El Pueblo, to learn more about the restaurant’s journey, its standout offerings, and its exciting plans for the future.
From a Gas Station Taco Shop to Four Vibrant Locations
El Pueblo’s story began humbly in 2015 with a 600-square-foot taco shop attached to a gas station. “We were lovingly referred to as the gas station taco shop,” Nony shared. The success of that first location inspired growth, leading to a second spot in Carlsbad. Then came the game-changer: the Del Mar location, which added a bar and elevated El Pueblo from a fast-casual favorite to a full dining experience with signature cocktails. Their most recent addition, Carmel Valley, opened in September 2023 and stands as the largest location to date.
Behind this rapid expansion is Jack, the visionary owner, whose love for Mexican cuisine paired with a keen business sense turned his passion into a thriving venture. “Jack’s dedication to quality is unmatched,” Nony said. “From using Angus beef and hormone-free chicken to bringing in whole avocados and slicing cabbage daily, everything is done in-house to maintain authenticity and freshness.”
A Menu That Stands Out
While the $1.29 fish tacos are undeniably a draw, the entire menu at El Pueblo reflects a commitment to tradition and quality. “We’re as close to a scratch kitchen as you can get,” Nony explained. The fish tacos, featuring crispy fish, fresh chipotle sauce made daily, and perfectly shredded cabbage, are a customer favorite—available at all hours, every day of the week.
Other standout items include the pollo tacos and enchiladas, which Nony personally recommends for their rich, flavorful profiles. And for those looking for a refreshing drink to pair with their meal, the bar menu offers handcrafted cocktails that have become a hit since their introduction in Del Mar.
The Secret Ingredient: Community
El Pueblo’s commitment to its employees and guests alike has fostered a strong sense of community. Employees receive benefits, free meals during shifts, and a supportive work environment that feels like family. “Many of our team members have been with us for years, and it’s not uncommon for their family members to join as well,” Nony said. “That speaks volumes about the kind of workplace we strive to maintain.”
This dedication extends to the restaurant’s customers, who enjoy extras like UFC fight nights without a cover charge. “We want our guests to feel like they’re part of something special when they’re here,” Nony explained. “It’s our way of giving back for their loyalty.”
What’s Next for El Pueblo?
El Pueblo isn’t slowing down anytime soon. “We’re looking to add more vegetarian options to our menu to cater to a growing customer base,” Nony revealed. Though she couldn’t share specific expansion details yet, Nony hinted that exciting things are on the horizon.
Whether you’re in the mood for a quick taco or a lively night out, El Pueblo has something for everyone. Its dedication to authentic Mexican flavors, high-quality ingredients, and community-first philosophy ensures that every visit is a memorable one.