El Gordo Mexican Food

4768 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111, United States
+1 858-221-6530
$$$ Mexican restaurant
(275 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

If you're craving authentic Mexican cuisine that bursts with flavor, look no further than El Gordo Mexican Food, nestled in the vibrant Convoy Street area of San Diego, CA. This hidden gem provides the perfect blend of traditional recipes and a casual dining experience, making it an ideal spot for anyone looking to satisfy their taco cravings or indulge in a scrumptious burrito.

As you step inside, you are welcomed by a bright and colorful atmosphere that radiates warmth and friendliness, enhanced by cheerful decor and a cute outdoor patio. While the restaurant might not boast an extravagant ambiance, what it lacks in curb appeal, it makes up for with an inviting atmosphere and a focus on delivering immense flavor.

El Gordo’s menu features a tantalizing array of options that highlight the best of Mexican cuisine. A must-try is their Birria Quesadilla, oozing with cheese and served alongside a savory consome that makes each bite even richer at just $17.99. If you’re in the mood for breakfast, the Birria Breakfast Burrito will leave you delighted, stuffed with tender meat, eggs, potatoes, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro—all for only $14.25. And don’t forget to explore their selection of Tostadas, where the Carne Asada Tostada stands out, topped generously with guacamole and pico de gallo ($8.25) for a refreshing crunch.

Critics and food lovers alike sing praises about the mouthwatering flavors at El Gordo. As one satisfied customer, Jennifer Hart, enthusiastically remarked, “Wow! Unexpectedly amazing taco shop!” Such reviews highlight the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor—particularly the medium chunky salsa, which has been described as “outstanding” and the perfect accompaniment to their delicious dishes.

El Gordo is the kind of place that draws you in to explore more than just the food. Sandy, one of the friendly staff members, is noted for her exceptional service, turning a simple meal into a memorable experience. With a salsa bar offering a variety of flavors to complement your meal, your taste buds are sure to enjoy a little extra kick!

With ample seating available and a drive-thru for added convenience, El Gordo is perfect for a quick lunch stop or a leisurely dinner with friends and family. Plus, the prices are incredibly reasonable, ensuring that you can indulge without breaking the bank.

So, whether you’re a local or just passing through, make sure to carve out time in your itinerary for El Gordo Mexican Food. Your taste buds will thank you!

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers delivery
Has drive-through
On-site services available
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 comfort food
Serves food
Serves late-night food
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has gender-neutral toilets
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Crowd
Family friendly
Good for groups
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Pets
Dogs allowed outside
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Tuesday

6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Wednesday

6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Thursday

6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Friday

6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Saturday

7:30 AM - 10:00 PM

Sunday

9:00 AM - 10:00 PM

275 Reviews
Jennifer Hart

18 Sep 2025

Wow! Unexpectedly amazing taco shop! Came here on a whim when getting my vehicle serviced in the area. Usually only get Asian food in Convoy area, so this was a first. First impressions: No curb appeal, standard taco shop where you “get it & go” and don’t expect much as far as seating, decor, etc. They have a cute outdoor patio. Upon walking in: Fun, welcoming, bright, colorful & attention to detail! Very clean with a great use of space. Impressive artificial flowers and wall adornments for this kind of place. So cool! Covered patio too & a variety of seating options. Menu: Extensive! They have a few hand written notes with additional items(like your average shop) but most of their menu is digital. The plates include photos & prices are quite reasonable. There’s a kids menu. Couldn’t tell if they offer alcoholic beverages but there appears to be a bar & their logo includes a man with a beer in his hand. Food: I was here for breakfast but craving rolled tacos. They’re so much better fresh! Ordered 3 w/ guacamole & cheese. Served on a reusable plate with plenty of toppings. I tried 4 different salsas, all of which were delicious wish they had pico, but that’s not a regular offering at most salsa bars. Ate at a cute table within the indoor fully covered & sealed patio that let in lots of light. The tacos were crispy as can be with flavorful meat. Guac was more of a guac salsa, which I enjoyed. Tons of flavor & nice consistency. Almost too much cheese, if there’s such a thing Can’t wait to return with the family & try more menu items!

CritDicks

23 Aug 2025

Wow!!! Amazing flavors here. It’s basically the same stuff as other Mexican takeouts and eateries. No frills presentation or preparation. No special different ingredients. But the flavor! Wow!!! Like maybe the chef has his salting to perfection. The “medium” chunky salsa was outstanding. The carrots were delicious as well; however I think the vegetable delivery guy skipped carrot day. All the carrots were cut rather small. Good stuff though. Inside of the place is a bit sketchy but nothing bad that we saw. Just an interesting layout with interesting customers. We ate everything. Dicks

Trey Delaplaine

30 Jul 2025

This place is decent, although its not the famous El Gordo I realized after. The quesabirria is good, I was meh on the fish used in the fish taco. Good service.

Yvonne Macias

27 Jun 2025

I CANT! I JUST CANT! Imagine eating anywhere else! Holy moly, the carne asada is AMAZING! The prices? Sooooooo goooood. I can’t wait to try the albondigas next time! SANDY IS AWESOME! Super friendly, attentive, and she even brought me some chips! Wait until you try the salsa, so many different kinds and the flavors are perfect. I’m hoping they will make posole Verde one day! THANK YOU!

G O

11 Jun 2025

Lots of seats. Salsa bar for your orders. Pleasent service. Cute decorations. Huge TV's with menus that don't change what your looking at. Drive through is convenient. Located in corner always nice. It's places like this that give the community a good look. I've had the Fries and flautas. And they are large servings don't be afraid of the price.

Megan Williams

28 May 2025

The taco was amazing! Was enough meat to make two. The enchiladas were super tasty too. Food was served quick and hot. Im super happy with the price and the portions. We needed a little hot sauce for the enchiladas, but very very flavorful. Would definitely eat here again.

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