My friend and I were out here to try this neighboring bakery and we saw this place and all their specials passing by. I ordered the carnitas Cali fries with a soda (came as a special). Food was made good and came out fast! The staff was friendly and attentive, I sat outside on their patio but it looks like they have nightly events. Will probably come back to try other goodies on their menu soon. read more

El Pariente - Carnitas fries - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

I went this morning to this establishment. Looking to buy side order of some Pico de Gallo They didn't open until 8. So I waited patiently, and man came up, and I asked him if he belonged to this establishment, he told me he didn't speak English, as he was opening the gate to go in to this establishment. Red flag, right there.So I asked him if he sold pico de gallo and he said, yes, then he went into the shop while I've waited outside because it was just coming up on 8 AM. And he was just opening, then a young lady comes up and she goes in. So I asked her, she told me they don't have pico de Gallo., to go to the little establishment on the side in the back of them as I was approaching the little establishment. Everyone was looking at me. Kinda funny, but I went anyway. And asked if someone could translate for me what I needed. So I told this gentleman and he said, go back to the restaurant where I just came from, because they lied to me. I don't know how to say this. So I just put it out there, this racism mess has to stop!!!!!. I come to the community restaurants and the little corners stores to support them. Opposed to going to the major grocery stores or these big restaurants. But when you treat me like I've done something to you less than or I am a part of your back behind. That's unacceptable!!!!. I was born in the 50s, so I've been dealing with racism for over 60 something years. My thing is, how can you a person mistreat Another person and think that's okay. But it's your business. You're right, but I will not recommend this place if asked were to get food and furthermore, how do you open a business and treat certain customers some kinda way it is not ok to make someone else feel less than but not to worry, I will not visit your establishment again. Nor will I recommend it. I'm not going to down your restaurant because I know nothing about it. Except for how I was treated, all I know is. I don't want the next person to go through this. Not only because of the way I was treated but food just doesn't taste good. When you got negative energy As one of the ingredients I've seen this establishment change names over the years but just like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're gonna get!!!!! read more

Slappin tacos. Ordered carne asada, adobada, and cochito (pork). Carne asada juicy and had charcoal flavor, adobada well seasoned, cochito super flavorful woth little crunchy bits. Red and green salsas add to experience. To go order served with cucumbers, radish, and limes. Definitely want to explore more of menu. read more

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This spot is a true hidden gem, even if it's not in the most polished part of town. It's absolutely worth the stop if you're nearby. The staff is friendly, the food is high‑quality, and the interior is surprisingly clean and nicely decorated. There's a small outdoor seating area, but we opted to eat inside thanks to some... lively entertainment happening across the street. They're known for their cochito, but we ordered the carne asada so we could compare the same taco across different stops on our taco crawl. The meat was flavorful, though it lacked the smoky taste we found elsewhere. The taco comes on two homemade tortillas served piping hot, and the portion was so generous we easily turned it into two tacos to share. It comes with two hot sauces, the red one had the most heat. There was a bit more guacamole than I prefer, but that's personal taste. I do wish they had a condiment bar. The taco came with just one slice of cucumber and one slice of radish. They do offer daily specials that change throughout the week. Overall, it's a solid place to stop if you're in the area. read more

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This place specializes in cochito which is broiled pork and do they stuff it. The burrito sizes were pretty big and stuffed and I would had been happy with both. It came out fresh and stuffed, The meat was pretty juicy but after awhile it can be kind of boring, good thing we have sauce. They came with three sauce, mild, spicy and spiciest. Also came with pickled onions which helped. The California burrito was pretty solid and big. Chips are more cripsy and complementary. Theres seating inside and outside, the restrooms both have different door code and very pretty big and clean. This was defintiely a very clean place. There was even a section for drinks and a open mic setup. Parking there is a small parking lots nearby that is shared with other stores. read more

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The service is quick, friendly, the space is fun and clean. The staff really seem like they care a lot about doing their best, to the point of asking us to fill out short surveys on how they could better. The chochito (broiled pork) is excellent and unique to this area at least, and there's always the standard adobada and carne asada. Prices are excellent. Definitely a staple. read more

El Pariente - Tostada - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

Came to try this new taco shop because they specialize in a specific region of mexican cuisine; Mazatlan. They specialize in Cochito tatemado, or broiled pork. I got a Chochito burrito ($9) it comes with broiled pork, beans chorizo and cabbage. I didn't get the normal red ground chorizo that I'm used to but more of a finely chopped moist pork and bits of crispy skin through out the burrito. The cabbage was also finely chopped to match the pork. What stood out most and really made the burrito was the bits of crispy skin, it was unlike any other taco shop in San Diego. Its like the best part when you order crispy roast pork in the chinese market. What also made it was the slice of fresh jalapeno inside it added a nice crunch and a bit of freshness to it. The salsas were SPICY, they came in small containers for a reason, the green tomatillo salsa was least spicy but the other 2 were up there in spice level so use them sparingly. Because i ate there it came with some complemetary chips which were fried in house. They were good and i think flour tortilla chips so a bit different than normal. Service was friendly, you order at the reigster and they bring it to your table. There were a handful of tables inside as well as some outside. It looked like they were building a small stage inside, so maybe there's gonna be live music in the future or maybe just an elevated area. They have their own parking lot which they share with other businesses but you can also park on the street. I suggest you try this spot as its the only place that serves Mazatlan style food or specifically Cochito/Broiled pork. read more

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My family owns a few taco shops , therefore I don't try new spots often since they almost always disappoint but this place was a hidden gem. You don't see prices like this often, i appreciate the size of the burritos (not XXXL but more than enough to share even). The meat was freshly chargrilled , the avocado was bright green (being in the industry I know how hard it is to keep fresh) the salsas were great. I have a new favorite to add to my list. Lastly the young lady that helped us was super sweet and attentive. Looking forward to coming back. read more

Anchoring a small strip of businesses in the Sherman Heights neighborhood is El Pariente which is a taqueria specializing in broiled pork (cochito tatemado) from Mazatlan. I haven't discovered another taco shop in town that serves pork cooked this way. There was an on-site lot for the plaza which was good because curbside parking in this area can be sketchy after sunset. A front patio had a few tables with umbrellas for coverage from the elements. The inside dining area could seat a couple of dozen customers. A banner on the outside advertised a 3 x 1 small taco special on Taco Tuesdays which may be worth a return trip. The left menu screen listed breakfast items, burritos, rolled tacos, beverages, and desserts. The right menu screen displayed tacos, quesadillas, tortas, and mulitas. I selected one of each of the three tacos... asada, adobada, and cochito. The first two were garnished with guacamole, cilantro, and onions. The cochito was dressed with beans, chorizo, and cabbage. The broiled pork was certainly a must try when visiting this place. Not only did the broiling impart a unique flavor to the meat, but the kitchen added bits of crunchy pork (i.e. chicharrones) as a topping to that taco. The texture contrast made the cochito taste even better. Even the adobada tasted different than what I have experienced elsewhere albeit in a better way. The asada was the least impressive of my trio as the beef was pretty standard. A tray with four compartments was provided containing three types of salsa and limes. I did a taste test and quickly realized that there was lots of HEAT in the salsas so I avoided using any on my food. I bought a pineapple agua fresca to quench my thirst after eating. The service was very good from the staff. I gave a 4.5 star rating for my dining experience at El Pariente. read more

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$13 for a basic bean and cheese burrito?? Why? It's an average sized, lukewarm, runny bean and cheese burrito...

Freakin' dank!! I was craving some carne asada fries in a smaller size/portion and found El Pariente by chance- more so because I was looking for some cheaper tacos. Their adobada taco was SO GOOD, it came with 2 tortillas so it was definitely filling. My fiance got their conchito taco as well, which is a bit like carnitas but crispier!! The small carne asada fries was a perfect bite to share in addition to the 2 tacos we got. The lady who took our order was very friendly, even accommodating my Spanish speaking practice, and the food was brought out quickly! The interior is very relaxed, and there is seating outside (although limited). You do need a code to use the restrooms, but easy enough if you're dining in or buying something! Overall- such a tasty spot and a great option if you're not trying to drive into downtown SD. read more

Rolled tacos are superb. While it may be out of way for most people this is a must try venue for its quality meat and positive variant on your typical Mexican to go spot. The staff were friendly and definitely ready to serve up more customers and I was kindly advised to not order a quesadilla cuz that in itself is a meal for 1 but I foolishly went ahead anyways and she had a togo box all ready for me when I could not eat anymore. Adobada is the top quality I would expect and the Cocci is a non standard item you NEED to try! read more

Based on reviews, I'm sure their food is great. Unfortunately, we didn't get to try it. We were outside at 8am on a Saturday, ready to load up on breakfast burritos before a day at the zoo. The gal opened the door a few minutes late and let us know that Chef wouldn't be there for another 20 minutes. We knew by the time the kitchen was going, we'd be late to meet our friends so we moved on to another breakfast burrito place nearby. read more

Leaving the padres game and was in the mood for Mexican food! Saw this place and we went here. The cashier said they are know for their pork tacos also known for their poke tacos ! I started things out with their asada fries which were yummy but then got 3 of their signature cochito tatemado tacos, which were amazing ! Definitely a must try ! My buddy got the macha breakfast burrito & the cochito tatemado quesadilla which he said was a must try ! We both got a banana bread and loved it ! Restaurant was clean, service was great, lots of seating inside. Definitely coming back ! read more

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New Taco in the Barrio! A limited menu is not a bad thing in my opinion.. especially when you are nailing it with your offerings! The Cochito Taco: The tender pork with the crunch of chicharron in their signature taco was delicious and something you will not find anywhere. The asada taco was also well prepared... I actually ordered the adobado taco... as asada is usuallynot my favorite.. but they are doing it right! Their salsa offerings are also on point. Don't sleep on this joint. read more

Back again! Been a regular here and they finally have alcohol now! Definitely recommend the cocci to tacos, the quesadillas are huge. And as always, must get the rolled tacos! read more

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Excellent authentic Mexican food! Service is fast and friendly. Cafe is authentic and clean. Plenty of free parking.

Okayyy this spot is a whole vibe! From the second you walk in, it just feels good, modern, stylish, and super inviting. The music was on point and really set the mood without being too loud. And the food?? So good. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and came out looking amazing. You can tell they really care about what they're serving. Plus, the place was really clean, which just makes the whole experience even better. Good vibes, great food, good music... what more do you need? I'll definitely be back! read more

El Pariente - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

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The service is quick and friendly. The California burrito is solid, chips are good, salsas are spicy and the agua de limón con chia is exactly what it should be. read more

El Pariente - California Burrito - good ratio of ingredients, it has crispy fries, carne asada is seasoned well and not greasy. - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

The sleeper spot! -Rolled tacos con todo were super crispy and the the meat was perfectly seasoned -Conchito taco - my favorite taco to get. The meat was juicy and the added chicharron creates a delicious contrast between crunchy and tender. - Michelada was crafted perfectly Give this spot a try, you won't be disappointed! read more

It is really rare for me to leave a review for food. It's also a rare moment to eat something and say WOW. The tacos here are sooo good! They are known for their shredded pork but honestly ALL their food is good here. The asada is my favorite, the meat was smoky and cooked to perfection, not dry at all. The tortillas taste fresh and came out hot. The adobada is just as good. I don't want to leave a review because I don't want this place to get too popular but they need the attention! The space is clean and well maintained! Service is great as well! read more

El Pariente - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

I love trying new places and my bestfriend stumbled upon this one ... and omg , everything we ate was DELICIOUS !! As soon as we tried the salsas they brought out with the chips , we knew it was going to be the bomb . La cajera, SO nice and helpful, we ordered based off her suggestion and let me tell you, listen to the lady, everything tasted so great! Will definitely be coming back . Tacos de Conchita is their specialty but everything was equally as good . Thank you read more

I rarely leave reviews. This place is new and is slow. It deserves way more biz. I got a chorizo breakfast burrito and I saw that the specialty here is the cochito tatemado. The cochito taco was fire! Super tender, juicy and flavorful pork accompanied with a crunch ( chicharron?). The salsas are served in a cute containers with lime, 1 red and 2 green salsas. Salsa seem fresh. The red has some kick. All are packed with flavor. The burrito was grilled on both sides, a tiny bit small but delicious. It had melted cheese in each bite. Tortilla game was on point also. My order was served with freshly fried chips too. Quick and friendly service. Atmosphere is nicer than your standard taco shop. read more

El Pariente - Cochito taco and chorizo breakfast burrito - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

Phenomenal food and ready quickly with great sauces, including very spicy ones! We will definitely be eating here regularly!

Tacos were good. Hot sauces were nice and spicy. Cochito taco was amazing. Plenty of seating and very clean. read more

El Pariente - Great tacos. Really good salsa. The cochito was amazing. - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

very good food and the drinks were on point. The service was great and quick. We all enjoyed oir food, got all 3 mulitas & the chilaquiles rojos!! BOMB. read more

Food was fresh, authentic tacos are big flavorful, the cochito tacos are amazing soft pork meat with some of the crunchy parts of the pig skin. read more

El Pariente - 2 tacos de cochito and 2 asada - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

Glad I found this place, very convenient location near the 5 freeway by downtown. Great prices and great food! It was my First time having a cochito taco and it was delicious! Very nice people working there and quick service. Got carne asada fries and a regular size taco for like 12 dollars . Will definitely be back, check them out! read more

First timer here and the food was muy delisioso. Rolled tacos were nice and crunchy. Cochito taco was absolutely fuego. Coming back for sure. Gracias El Pariente for the delicious food and amazing service! read more

Best vampiro I have had in San Diego! The asada and adobada meats are both equally good.. you can't go wrong quite anything on the menu.

Would give it 10 stars if I could ! At first I was skeptical on the taco price but after wards having that first bite changed everything .. ladies & gentlemen I highly recommend this place for tacos especially. The banana nut bread was amazing freshly made . The staff are nice and are on top of their A game. Very chill spot overall ! read more

Delicious and friendly people. Great atmosphere and elegant music. Wishing these people the best and highly recommending them

Incredible food & incredible service. FRESH ingredients and spicy salsa options. Already craving my next cochito taco read more

El Pariente - Taco Cochito - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

walking into the restaurant, the smell just knocks you out!! yum. appearance of the food is 1 thing, after the 1st bite WOW. their prices are "Competitive". they have parking, that's shared with 3 other businesses. I have to admit the meat was salty. the Torta did take a little bit of time. all the while I am served a salsa bar & house made chips. 1 cook, 1server/cashier. I do see myself coming here from National City read more

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The food was amazing. I got a torta especially with beans. The meat was so tender and delicious. Alejandro was super friendly!! La comida estaba delicious. Comi la torta especially con frijoles a la carne esta tiernita y muy Rica. Alejandra fue super amigable. read more

stopped by during posted business hours and was told the restaurant was closed. fair enough. What stood out more was the tone of the interaction and a follow-up comment as I was leaving, which didn't quite reflect the level of professionalism one would expect in hospitality. You're better off going to a place that is more welcoming and more safe. read more

Se los recomiendo, buen servicio y los Tacos de Cochito riquísimos, mi favorito!!! Muy limpio el lugar también.

Súper emocionada de aver encontrado un restaurante con la comido deliciosa de aya el puerto y el ambiente adentro me encantó. El servicio fue muy bueno y el que prepara la comida transmite la buena vibra! Pronto volveré.. se los recomiendo read more

Amazing food! The cochita burrito was they sprinkle these chicharron bits all over them.

one of the best taco shops I have been to. The customer service is amazing. The cochito tacos are 10/10! read more

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