Consistently one of my favorite restaurants! My go-to spot when out of town guests are in town and want delicious, authentic Mexican food right when they land. The service is always exceptional, quick, and the staff are kind. The vibe is perfect both inside and outside on their large patio. Highly recommend a classic quesataco with a side of consume or go a little more whimsical with the birria ramen! Birria El Rey is not to miss! read more

Birria El Rey - Quesabirria - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

Get the birria Cali burrito! Soooooo good! This was my first time ordering this and it was delicious! I love coming here, especially their outdoor patio! The staff is always so friendly! They all remember Cako too! Cako Approves! That's All! :) read more

Birria El Rey - Birria California burrito - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

Taco Birria combo with consommé! Was really good! Seating is good, service is ok not bad. Only down side was the Birria in the birria burrito was a bit dry and they cut the burrito in half with the foil put on so little peace's of the foil get in the burrito. Would come back. read more

Birria El Rey - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

Love Birria El Rey! Things are different now that they have an actual restaurant; with tables, a hostess, servers etc. The food quality and taste remains the same. Better actually since now they offer various creative breakfast items. A couple negative comments or constructive feedback: What's lacking now is their seating/hostess system. Unfortunately they only have four tables for four , the rest are tables for 2 (about 6-8 tables) and bar seating. They have a few tables inside, but it's pretty loud so you're better off seating outside. Unfortunately when dining here you order at least two entrees, drinks, they bring salsas, and pickled onions/limes, etc... so seating in a table for two gets crowded pretty quickly. They do need to figure something out as most people prefer to sit on the larger tables. Another negative note. Our food took FOREVER to come out (about 30-40 mins) there were only two parties ahead of us. And, it seemed they had waited a while for their food too. The food is delicious but it almost seems they had more hustle when they had the small window/food cart. I hope they can figure out their kinks sooner then later. read more

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Love this place and the new location is perfect!!!! Much better for the best birria in SD imy opinion!! I always get the full order because it comes with a big bowl of birria, a side of tortillas & salsas. Reina usually serves us and is always very sweet!! My family and I will continue to come here. read more

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Visited here after taking a trip to the zoo and it was solid. Every item me and group tried tasted good from the chilaquiles all the way to the birria ramen. The birria was salted properly and was not overly greasy. Food came out quickly as well and service was very pleasant. Only thing I would state is that for a Mexican spot that the price is quite high compared to other Mexican restaurants in the immediate area but I think it would be comparable to other birria places. It's also not my number one favorite birria place in SD but I would still say this is a quality restaurant that deserves a visit. read more

Birria El Rey is simply gorgeous. The space isn't overrun with Spanish décor, but the influence is there in the best way, subtle, thoughtful, and warm. I especially loved the framed pieces around the restaurant. It feels comfortable and welcoming, both inside and out. The menu makes one thing very clear: their specialty is BIRRIA, just in case it was not obvious. You'll find it done every way you could want, and a few you didn't even expect: *Birria tacos *Rich, flavorful consomé *A full birria plate *Burritos *Queso birria tacos *Birria Fries *And to my surprise, a BIRRIA GRILLED CHEESE (yes, and YES ) *Menudo *DESSERTS: choco flan, churros, and cinnamon buns. We ordered all of the above and were not disappointed. The food tasted authentic, cooked to perfection, and the portions were perfect. We left full and happy. The consomé was deep, rich, and not overly greasy, making it perfect for dipping every bite. Nothing was overwhelmingly spicy, which made it great for kids while still being packed with flavor for adults. Must-order: the queso birria tacos with consomé--non-negotiable. Highlights: *Parking in the back *Plenty of space for kids to move around *Family-owned, and it truly shows *Just steps from Golden Hill Park, making it a perfect spot to take a walk after your meal Every employee was upbeat and friendly, and we were even helped by the owner, who made sure everything came out perfectly. That level of care really stands out. This is the kind of place you bring visiting family to when you want to show off real San Diego Mexican food, perfect for a casual family meal, a weekend lunch, or a serious birria craving. read more

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You wait to be seated and inform the hostess how many people are in your party. The seating area is very clean and spacious. I love the incorporation of the bright yellow seating and wood features. The greenery on the other side of the structure adds a brightness to the space. I love when the sun was shining through the area, it was beautiful. The worker that helped seated us and took our order was very kind. She did try to upsell us with chips and salsa, churros at the end, but in a kind way. She felt very friendly and not pushy at all. She was very prompt with service as well-- bringing the food and drinks out. As well as bringing the condiments and silverware. And removing the dishes when we finished. I ordered a horchata & a taco. The taco was their birria taco, nothing too complex. The name of it was very simple so she was confused at first as to what I was ordering, haha. I chose this one because there was no cheese! She did offer the consume as well, but I just had the taco alone. This was also my first time having birria so I'm not exactly sure what to expect from it. My initial thoughts: it's quite oily, but the meat fell apart nicely and had great flavor. I had it with their green salsa and it wasn't too heated, but it was a nice consistency. The horchata had condensed milk on the side and some desiccated coconut. It was different, refreshing, and cold. Overall, it was okay! My friends had their specialty fries, burritos, rolled tacos, combo plates...which looked even better. They polished off those dishes well, so I would say it was a hit! They have a considerable number of items on the menu so something for everyone to try. Would recommend stopping by! read more

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I was visiting SD for the third time and desperately tried to hunt down the incredible quesabirria I had on my last visit. Unfortunately I couldn't find it (the spot may have closed) so I searched for a promising alternative to satisfy my birria cravings. This place was okay. I ordered the quesabirria with a side of consomé (I wasn't thrilled that it was an add on and not included). It was solid but not super memorable. I will say that the birria felt less heavy/greasy than others I've had which was a huge plus. The consomé was delightfully flavorful but a little too salty for me. Overall, decent service, cute decor, and okay food - but I probably won't be back with so many other birria options around SD. read more

Birria El Rey - Quesabirria, Consome - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

El Rey Birria has been living rent-free in my mind for over a year. I finally made it back and I can confirm their birria is still completely unmatched. Their menu is one of the most creative I've seen, using birria in every way you could possibly imagine. You truly can't go wrong with the classic birria tacos -- juicy, flavorful, and everything you want in a bite. If you're in the mood for a hearty meal that'll also hold up as leftovers, the quesabirria is the move. It's rich, cheesy, packed with meat, and still tastes incredible the next day. They're currently tucked away behind a building in Golden Hill, a little hidden if you don't know what you're looking for, but they're about to move into the main building with a proper street-front entrance. Easy fix either way: just plug it into your GPS and don't miss out. If you love birria or just good food in general, El Rey Birria deserves a spot on your list. read more

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Came here on a recommendation from a friend and it didn't disappoint! We opted for the El Rey plate which was a huge portion of birria with beans, rice, and tortillas. So good! Only bummer is they sell the consume on the side, but let me tell you it's worth it! I made little tacos out of the birria and added salsa and red onions that came on the side and it was EPIC. Everything had amazing flavor here and I will be back! read more

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Everything was delicious! I was starving so I ordered everything and was not disappointed with anything. The mulita was unreal and the consumé was perfect for everything. Staff was nice and helpful especially since we weren't totally sure how many how many would be in our party. Definitely grab a mulita or a quesadilla sometime! read more

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The birria is delicious but I stayed for the michelada. Everyone is kind and welcoming. The location is in the charming neighborhood of Golden Hill. The outdoor patio is inviting. Try the michelada it's the best! read more

Birria El Rey - Michelada - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

Outstanding. Simple and easy and clean an delicious. My friend Yvonne was here YESTERDAY and loved the Taco Chicharón so much, she brought us all back here today! read more

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Food was amazing! Birria is nice tender melts in your mouth. Really recommend. Service is great ensuring we had everything we needed and that our food was up to what we hoped for. Ambiance is nice mellow outdoor seating. Really enjoyed it. We will be back. We had the quesabirria, mulita birria, and grilled cheese birria. read more

Birria El Rey - Mulita Birria (middle) Grilled Cheese Birria (bottom). Quesabirria was ordered too but didn't have enough time to take a picture. - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

You want legit/authentic Birria? Say no more. Birria el Rey was a little drive out of our way, but it was WELL WORTH IT. I'm normally not a rice/beans girl - but even that was legit and delish!! The service was fast, the food was unreal, and the weather outside was perfect. It's always good day to get fresh Birria!!! read more

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I don't usually leave reviews but First time here, service was fast! We were in and out. We got quesabirria it was delicious! We sat outdoors it wasn't crowded and they had nice Spanish music playing. Cute spot to come after church or dinner. I definitely plan on coming back! read more

Birria El Rey - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

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When I came in I was seated quickly the service was so amazing and welcoming thank you to the waiter that sat me. The food came out quickly and was fresh and hot definitely enjoyed it! The ambiance was super nice and clean definitely recommend going you won't be disappointed good food,drinks and service. read more

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OMG - the food was unbelievable. We wish we could eat more because everything looked sooo good. We had the quesataco and the quesabirria. So, so good!! The service was impeccable- very attentive. And we sat outside which was a perfect SoCal experience. Go here!!!!! read more

food: 10/10 decor: 10/10 people: 10/10 would definitely recommend and if you are looking for a spot that tastes JUST like getting tacos down in Tijuana, this is mf IT. worth the price!! Service was also amazing, we chose to order to-go, you just need to walk in and order at the counter. Next time me and my husband are definitely going to go sit and eat to really enjoy it more, but for a taste test to-go order... freaking DELICIOUS! read more

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Excellent service. And the food was amazing! Really nice restaurant too and the ambiance was great! Must visit. read more

Birria El Rey - Half Order Birria - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

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Went today for the first time. Had their birria chilaquiles breakfast. Eggs sunny side up and it was a great breakfast. I can't wait to go back and try their other offerings. Staff was very nice. read more

I came to San Diego on a mission to eat authentic birria! This is not an easy find in my hometown, so I couldn't wait to try it in Southern California. Their storefront is a walk-up window that shares a parking lot with a small strip mall. While there is no space for indoor seating, there are a few tables on the sidewalk along the street. As you can imagine, the menu features birria in all forms... tacos, burritos, nachos, ramen and more! All the items include limes, radishes, salsa and pickled red onion with habanero. Shortly after we ordered, one of the employees brought our food to our table and it was served piping hot! I had to wait a few minutes before I could even take a bite. The QUESABIRRIA ($12) was ginormous! A whole flour tortilla was stuffed with cheese, shredded beef birria, white onion and cilantro. The meat was super tender and succulent, although it wasn't as bold in flavor as I expected. However, I enjoyed how it wasn't too salty and the seasonings didn't overpower the natural flavor of the beef. The melted cheese was so gooey and the crisp tortilla held everything together. The only thing was that the juices from the beef pooled at the bottom of my plate, so the underside of the tortilla became soggy after some time. I ordered a cup of their consommé ($2.50) for dipping since this is a core component of any quesabirria in my opinion (and I was somewhat surprised that it didn't come included with the order). This beef broth had a very deep flavor, and was both savory and salty. For me, an ideal bite was the quesabirria dipped in the consommé and topped with a piece of the pickled onion. For those seeking a lighter option, consider the TACOS ($4.25 each) in which the shredded beef birria is wrapped in corn tortillas with onion and cilantro. Two people in my group were happy with this order and I recommend getting a cup of the consommé with these as well. If you're looking for solid birria, this is the place! 4.25 stars. read more

Birria El Rey - Quesabirria ($12) - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

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I unfortunately was disappointed with the food at their new location. I had been to the small stand they had on the corner of Broadway & 25th and it was AMAZING. The new location is nice but did not live up to my past experience (food wise).I ordered their birria tacos and consome that came also with rice and beans. The consome was extremely salty, to the point it was not edible. I offered it to 3 other family members and they agreed it was way too salty. We unfortunately had to throw it away. The rice was dry and with no flavor. The beans tasted like they were from a can. The birria was good but my tortillas were hard and dry from the edges. The burrito was the only thing that was good. I'm hoping the cook had an off day, so willing to give it another chance in the future. read more

They just opened the new restaurant space and it took an already incredible birria spot to a whole new level. My girlfriend and I both had the birria chilaquiles and cafe de olla and they were delicious. They're still getting everything dialed in but as always the service is kind and it feels like you're at home. 6/5 stars read more

Birria El Rey - Café de Olla - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

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Food and drinks were delicious! I ordered the cafe de olla with a mango mimosa. Both delicious. The service was a bit slow despite there being not that many customers but everyone was very nice. I would suggest when they only have one waitress for the hostess at least to order a drink for customer while they wait almost 15 minutes for the waitress Even if they just said, can I get you a coffee or water while you wait for food would've been great . I would have been happy with a cafe de olla. That was a bit annoying because that would been an easy fix here as I was watching how the staff was working. I ordered the chilaquiles with the chipotle sauce on the side, Birria, and a soft scramble. Note, I ordered a soft scramble, but they cooked the eggs longer. They were fine so I don't doc them for that, but i would've preferred the soft scramble I ordered. The red sauce was delicious!!! 5 out of 5. The issues I had were it came with refried beans, but it was barely one tablespoon as it seemed it was just two smears for aesthetics. That was extremely unexpected and disappointing. I searched under the chops as there absolutely should have been more beans. They completely scrimped on that in a way that I've never seen, so I had to pay for more beans. I think they should make sure there's several tablespoons of beans there if it comes with beans. Also, I couldn't get a side of avocado or guacamole. I had to buy guacamole and chips. I would much rather half the amount and no chips. They should have that available for the breakfast as an addition to the chilaquiles. Because of the several issues, I really want to give them a 3.5 because portion and service was not hitting it completely. Since I can't give a 3.5, I thought based on the taste, I needed to give a 5, and it makes sense to round up. If this was solely based on the taste food and cafe de olla, this review would have been 5 stars. read more

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I've been eating at Birria El Rey for over 3 years and they never disappoint, their Birria tacos give me life. I'm so happy they finally opened their restaurant, it's beautiful! Their new breakfast menu is great, especially as someone who likes a more hearty/savory breakfast. My breakfast was incredible. My husband got the chorizo burrito and coffee and said both were very good, he said the coffee transports him back to his grandmas house in Mexico. Always amazing food, nice people, and now a great sitting area. read more

Birria El Rey - Machaca birria and eggs - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

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If you're seeking for a great birria, this is the place to be. They offer an incredible selection of tacos, burritos, and birria fries. The broth they have is incredibly good. They also have fresh agua de Jamaica horchata I recommend to family and friends. This is the best place I've ever been. The service, especially Reyna, was amazing. The food is delicious, and I highly recommend it. read more

Definitely would come again come and try it out , thank you to our server Zayra she was always very attentive along with the food quality delicious my girl loved the Birria chilaquiles this was our first time if you love comfort food this is the spot to go to also a cool joint to chill and hangout with some friends thank you to the back staff front staff for everything don't forget to get a Choco flan . read more

My friends and I were visiting sd and craving birria, we came across this place and it was delicious! Our server was so personable and funny. We loved how nice the weather was and their patio was perfect. I can't stop thinking about their birria grilled cheese, I need to go back just for that. We were obsessed with their rice and beans soo yummy! I do wish I would've tried their tamarindo margarita since I liked their jamaica mimosa but next time! read more

The birria is epic!! I don't know what it's called but it's the one that they melt the cheese inside with the birria taco...pure Heaven. They remodeled their location over in Golden Hill and it is so cute. I love the aesthetics and the outdoor patio with heaters. The only thing that throws me off is that they do menus and CD and it just doesn't seem like they have that down. Maybe now that it's been open a little bit they're better at it. Either way the staff is so kind and accommodating. The food and drinks are great and I'll be back over and over! highly recommend. read more

Best birria I've had in SD. Was frequenting 664 but I think I found my new spot! I had the birria flautas and they were jammed with meat. Will be coming back soon! read more

I went Tuesday to have breakfast for the first time I've heard good stuff about it.. But today was the worse experience I have ever had in a restaurant. My partner had a birria ramen and I had a bacon breakfast burrito. There were two women as waitress one cook, and I'm not sure what the other guy was. I seen him go to the back outside to grab stuff for the kitchen and came in Wipe the birria soup bowl with his bare hands all around the bowl because birria had spilled all around it. He could have grabbed a napkin or something other than his bare hands. Then the cook as I'm looking dead at him he decides to eat right off my plate because stuff came out of my burrito. Hopefully after the owner see's this he has cameras to checks to see this is not sanitary or good for his business. read more

Chicharron tacos Birria tacos El Rey plate Cost efficient $70 for 4 people Plan for parking One of our favorites in San Diego for Birria :) read more

Birria El Rey - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

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Best birria tacos I've ever had! I would say that without hesitation! This is my second visit to Birria El Rey and this place doesn't disappoint! I had driven by El Rey several times and there was always so many customers around for an amazing lunch! It's a small location that will soon move to become a full fledged restaurant. And it will be well received once they get the other location opens. I finally made the stop, had their tacos and was sold! This last stop reconfirmed this place is The Bomb! read more

Birria El Rey - Oh so delish! One with and one without queso! - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

Birria El Rey was a taco truck turned into a permanent storefront location in Golden Hill area of San Diego. They are known for their Tijuana style Birria with tacos, burritos, tortas, birria loaded ramen, fries, and chilaquiles. My friend and I went to the storefront location on a late Wednesday night to try their Birria Ramen, Birria Taco, and Quesabirria. I loved the Birria Taco and liked the Birria Ramen. Flavors were good but there was a lot of grease on top of the Birria Ramen. My friend liked the Quesabirria - but it was drowned in sauce and grease (unlike the other pictures posted here on Yelp). Sounds like it was an off night. Service is casual. You order at the counter. There are a few tables on the sidewalk, and they will bring out the food to your table when ready. read more

Birria El Rey - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

As someone who was born and raised in San Diego this is the best birria spot I have tried! The meat is always so tender and savory and can expect the same thing every time ! They used to be in a stand style location and have more recently moved into their new restaurant location which is absolutely stunning ! It feels like you are at home. Their birria ramen is also my favorite ! you are welcome with chips and guac that is so yummy. I love to order their jamaica and tacos de birria con nervio. The owners Karen and Cristian have done an outstanding job with their menu and location. will continue to be my go to! read more

After a quick web search found a taco Tuesday special here for 3x5...so hopped on over. Once here, found out the deal was old, it was now double that. Well, we were already here had it anyway. No surprise the Birria tacos were GOOD!!! Altho just a little spot at the end of a parking lot the place is pretty nice! The lady at the counter was super! Definitely will be coming back to try some of their other options!! read more

Food: Tacos - with Birria and 2 corn tacos , well seasoned. There are versions of this with queso or chicharrones. 5/5 Burritos - with rice, birria, beans, cheese. 5/5 El Rey plate - with rice, beans, birria, tortillas. 5/5 Consomme - flavorful, piping hot! 5/5 Service: they carry the food out to you! But after approximately a 15 min wait on a Sunday afternoon. Ambiance: you get the full authentic experience, sitting by the side walk and chasing after your napkins on a windy day! Will be back! read more

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Wow what a purchase! Great recommendation by the woman behind the counter, wish I caught her name! I underestimated the flavor packed in the birria chilaquiles, the spicy red sauce on the chilaquiles worked perfectly with the flavorful birria, and this was after driving it home. I wish they had put some holes to vent but the chilaquiles still had a little crisp to them and were fantastically delicious making up for the softer texture at least. Nonetheless, absolutely nom nom oops it's all gone delicious! So worth the price and the trip, come try it :) read more

Birria El Rey - Birria Chilaquiles Consome con Carne - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California