Tacos El Franc, Tijuana’s iconic Michelin-recognized taqueria, is expanding with its second U.S. location in San Diego’s historic Gaslamp Quarter on October 8, 2025. The new outpost at 528 5th Ave, San Diego, follows the brand’s first U.S. location at Westfield Plaza Bonita, which debuted to long lines and strong demand.
Tacos El Franc to Open Second Location in the U.S.
Tacos El Franc’s Gaslamp opening will mark another step in bringing the Tijuana favorite to U.S. diners eager to experience its signature tacos.
“We’ve been blown away by the response to Tacos El Franc here in the U.S., and this new location is an exciting next step as we look towards expanding throughout California and into neighboring states,” said Roberto Kelly, co-owner of Tacos El Franc USA.
The Gaslamp location will offer quick counter service for on-the-go and late-night diners. Whereas the Plaza Bonita location provides table service, adding a unique touch.
The menu highlights mesquite-grilled tacos, including adobada, asada, cabeza, suadero, and tripa. Diners can also order 32oz Caguamas alongside beef tallow fries loaded with their choice of meats.
Legacy of Tijuana Street Food
The brand began as a street cart in 1974, founded by Don Javier Valadez on a Tijuana corner. In 1996, Taco El Franc opened its first brick-and-mortar location in Tijuana, becoming a cultural landmark and one of the most acclaimed taquerias.
The restaurant earned recognition in the MICHELIN Guide in 2024 and again in 2025. It appeared on Netflix’s Taco Chronicles and is known for its award-winning adobada and sizzling carne asada, along with its commitment to quality.
Tacos El Franc Gaslamp Quarter will open to the public at 4 p.m. on October 8, allowing San Diego to savor the flavors that have defined Tijuana’s food for generations.
With its Gaslamp debut, Tacos El Franc continues its evolution from a Tijuana street cart to an internationally recognized taqueria.
