Tacos El Franc Brings Iconic Tijuana Flavor to National City
San Diego taco lovers, this is not a drill. Tijuana’s beloved Tacos El Franc is officially crossing the border, opening its first-ever U.S. location this May at Westfield Plaza Bonita in National City—and the hype is real.
From Street Cart to Michelin Recognition
A street-cart legend turned Michelin-recognized institution, Tacos El Franc has been serving sizzling carne asada, award-winning adobada, and real-deal Tijuana flavor since 1974. The original location in TJ draws thousands of fans every week, and now, it’s San Diego’s turn.
A 20-Year Journey to the U.S.
This expansion is decades in the making. Co-owner Roberto Kelly, who’s been a fan since his teen years, spent over 20 years building trust with founder Javier Valadez and his family to bring their iconic taqueria stateside—with full support and partnership.
From authentic charcoal grilling to original recipes and ingredients, the new National City outpost promises the same experience that made Tacos El Franc a household name in Baja.
What to Expect at the New Location
Expect a full-service taqueria setup with counter seating, traditional tables, high-tops, and a cheve-bar pouring micheladas, Mexican beer, and clamatos.
The team isn’t just importing flavor, they’re importing culture. This opening marks the start of what could be a new wave of U.S. locations, but the heart will always be in the details—and in the tacos.
“When we start seeing familiar faces return week after week, like we do in Tijuana, that’s when we’ll know we’ve made it,” says Kelly.
See you there!
San Diego, get ready—the taquero is firing up the grill, and the first bite will be unforgettable. Expect smoky adobada, real Tijuana flavor, and a taqueria experience that could easily become your new weekly ritual.
📅 Watch out for its opening this May
📍 3030 Plaza Bonita Road, Space 1108, National City
ℹ️ More info here
📸 Instagram
See you there, San Diego!
