Cotijas Taco Shop

9121 Mission Gorge Rd, Santee, CA 92071, United States
$$$ Mexican restaurant
(1413 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

If you find yourself in Santee, California, a visit to Cotijas Taco Shop is an absolute must for any taco enthusiast or lover of authentic Mexican cuisine. Nestled at 9121 Mission Gorge Rd, this gem is a local favorite that beckons both long-time patrons and curious newcomers alike with its mouth-watering offerings and inviting atmosphere.

When you step into Cotijas Taco Shop, the warm aromas of grilled meats and freshly made tortillas fill the air, creating an inviting environment that feels like home. The restaurant boasts a clean and casual dining atmosphere, perfect for a quick bite or a leisurely meal with friends and family. The friendly staff greets you with a smile, ready to guide you through the extensive menu filled with delicious choices.

Start your culinary journey with their Sopes, where you can enjoy the satisfying crunch of a Shredded Chicken Sope at just US$6.23, or try the Shredded Beef Sope for a touch of richness at US$6.86. If you're in the mood for something creamy and comforting, the Enchiladas are a highlight—especially the 2 Cheese Enchiladas for US$11.86 or the zesty 2 Shrimp Enchiladas at US$14.99.

Cotijas also caters to those seeking a twist on traditional fries. Their Carne Asada Fries, laden with fresh salsa, guacamole, cheese, and sour cream for US$19.36, offer a hearty, flavorful meal that will leave you wanting more. Or indulge in the Pollo Asado Fries—a delightful mix of grilled chicken topped with creamy goodness for US$18.11.

Customer reviews speak volumes about the experience at Cotijas. Staci Cain raves, "This is simply the best taco shop in Southern California," emphasizing its spotlessly clean environment and freshness. Czar Fonzarelli also highlights their famed hot sauce, claiming it's the best he’s ever had— "they need to bottle it up and sell it!" And for those enjoying breakfast, Mezrah H describes their hash brown burrito as a well-balanced dish with generous portions, ensuring a satisfying start to your day.

In a world full of dining options, Cotijas Taco Shop stands out as a place where quality and authenticity reign supreme. Every dish serves not just as a meal but as an experience steeped in rich flavors and tradition—one that you will be eager to revisit time and again. Take a moment to visit and discover why Cotijas is more than just a taco shop; it's a community treasure.

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has no-contact delivery
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fast service
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Serves late-night food
Has private dining room
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Quiet
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Popular with university students
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
On-site parking
Plenty of parking
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

7:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Tuesday

7:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Wednesday

7:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Thursday

7:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Friday

7:00 AM - 12:00 AM

Saturday

7:00 AM - 12:00 AM

Sunday

7:00 AM - 11:00 PM

1413 Reviews
Czar Fonzarelli

26 Jul 2025

Solid Mexican food I've been coming here for decades and the food is always good not great but good. Service the staff is always great and the hot sauce is the BEST hot sauce you will ever eat they need to bottle it up and sale it the restaurant is always clean I usually get rolled tacos and a bean and cheese burrito or for breakfast the hash brown burrito is the best

S R

28 Jun 2025

A San Diego staple with basic Mexican food. Specials like Menudo and Burris are awesome. Large Menu, but In my opinion the simple things like Quesadillas and RBC burritos are overpriced but whatever. Quick and efficient service and friendly staff.

Staci Cain

19 Jun 2025

This is simply the best taco shop in Southern California. It's that spotlessly clean hole in the wall that everyone wishes they knew about. Always busy because the food is fresh, perfectly spiced, hot and simply authentic mexican deliciousness. I live in Los Angeles but whenever I am in San Diego visiting my parents it is my first stop! You will never be sorry and you will figure out a way to come back often. I order the beef tacos, refried beans with a dr.pepper or I order the roll tacos.

Mezrah H

29 May 2025

Stopped by on a whim since our regular spot wasn’t open until 8am. We were warmly greeted and they graciously accommodated our request for cheese on only half of our breakfast burrito. We went with the hashbrown burrito and were delighted to find it well proportioned with generous portions of meat. Salsas are delicious and the cleanliness of the restaurant is assuring. Will definitely be back!! Next time I’ll take pictures, I was too eager this time. Lol

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