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Tacolicious (Marina)
Master Critic Reviews (8 Lists)
Tacolicious (Marina)
8.4
Marina mainstay for guajillo-braised beef, chicken tinga, and crispy taco specials with a weekday Happy Hour that packs the patio. Launched from a Ferry Plaza stand in 2009, it’s now the after-work default for margaritas and a taco flight before dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Guajillo-Beef Taco, MF Crispy Chicken Tacos (HH), Carnitas Taco
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Weekday 3–6pm Happy Hour with legit taco lineup and strong agave program.
Who should go: After-work groups and margarita lovers
When to visit: Weekdays 3–6pm; patio fills quickly on sunny days
What to order: Guajillo-beef, chicken tinga, MF crispy tacos
Insider tip: Ask about rotating taco/tequila combo pricing during HH; bar seats turn fastest.
Tacolicious (Marina)
8.1
Bustling Marina outpost known for margaritas, taco flights, and a weekday Happy Hour. It’s dialed for groups with quick pacing, outdoor seating, and a menu that works from after-work snacks to casual dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Guajillo-Beef Tacos, Chicken Tinga Tacos, House Guacamole
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Weekday Happy Hour with crowd-friendly tacos and margaritas.
Who should go: After-work crews and casual groups
When to visit: Weekdays 3–6 pm for Happy Hour
What to order: Guajillo-beef tacos, chicken tinga, classic margarita
Insider tip: Grab patio seats—service moves fast and the vibe stays lively.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Chestnut and surrounding residential blocks; fills quickly after 6pm. No valet service available.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—Marina crowd tends toward jeans and light layers, especially for the patio.
Noise level: Lively and energetic—conversations are doable inside but best outside on the patio for easier chat.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes typical without a reservation; bar seating turns over fastest.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, especially before 1 pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple taco and starter options like fried plantains, mushroom tacos, and guacamole.
Vegan options: Limited—can modify veggie tacos, but sauces often contain dairy.
Gluten-free options: Yes—most tacos are naturally gluten-free with corn tortillas; kitchen is careful but not celiac-certified.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for a casual or second date—fun, upbeat, and easygoing, but the noise level and communal tables make it less intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—especially on weekdays. Arrive early or grab a patio table; bar seating is first-come, first-served during Happy Hour.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes during daytime and early evening hours—kids’ taco plates available and outdoor tables fit strollers, though evenings get crowded and loud.
Best For
Better for: Group hangs, outdoor margaritas, and a fast-moving Happy Hour scene.
Skip if: You’re after quiet dining, high-end cocktails, or intimate conversation—try Flores or Padrecito instead.
Tacolicious (Marina)
8.3
Chestnut Street standby for mix-and-match tacos, margaritas, and quick pacing that works for groups. Consistent execution and weekday happy hour make it an easy sit-down choice.
Must-Try Dishes:
Brisket Taco, Baja Fish Taco, Chicken Tinga Taco
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 6.3
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Broad taco lineup with efficient service and a strong happy hour.
Who should go: Groups wanting variety and speed
When to visit: Weekdays 3–6pm for best value
What to order: Brisket, Baja fish, chicken tinga tacos
Insider tip: Sit at the bar for the fastest rounds and easy reorders.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only—spots fill quickly after 6pm, so plan extra time or use nearby lots on Lombard.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and a button-up or sundress fit right in with the Marina crowd.
Noise level: Lively but manageable; conversation possible at tables though bar area can get loud during happy hour.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes typical without a reservation, longer after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before 12:30pm; quick turnover even during peak.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – multiple options including mushroom and roasted veggie tacos.
Vegan options: Limited – can adapt veggie tacos by removing cheese and crema.
Gluten-free options: Yes – corn tortillas are standard and celiacs can request separate prep.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual, energetic dates than intimate ones; the upbeat vibe and margaritas help keep things light and fun.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, especially on weekdays; weekend evenings may require a 20–40 minute wait unless you grab bar seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes – high chairs and mild taco options available; afternoons and early evenings are most family-friendly before the bar crowd arrives.
Best For
Better for: Group dining, strong happy hour, and fast service compared to slower sit-down taquerias.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet meal or strictly traditional tacos; opt for smaller taquerias like Tacko or Bonita instead.
Tacolicious (Marina)
8.2
Chestnut Street standby for mix-and-match tacos, margaritas, and quick pacing that works for groups. Consistent execution and a weekday happy hour make it an easy, affordable sit-down option.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baja-Style Fish Taco, Guajillo Beef Brisket Taco, Salsa Sampler
Scores:
Value: 6.5
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Lively, affordable sit-down tacos with a strong happy hour.
Who should go: Groups wanting variety and quick service
When to visit: Weekdays 3–6pm for best value
What to order: Brisket taco, Baja fish taco, salsa sampler
Insider tip: Sit at the bar for the fastest rounds and easy taco reorders.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Chestnut and nearby cross streets is limited, especially after 6pm; no valet or dedicated lot available.
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans and casual tops are fine, but most diners lean a bit polished given the Marina crowd.
Noise level: Lively and moderately loud during peak hours — fine for groups but a bit noisy for intimate conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes for tables between 6:30–8:30pm; bar seats often turn faster.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before 1pm; easy walk-in.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple taco fillings like mushroom or potato, plus veggie sides and salads.
Vegan options: Limited — a few options with modifications (ask to skip crema or cheese).
Gluten-free options: Yes — corn tortillas available and most fillings are naturally gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for a casual meet-up or early-in-the-game date — it’s fun and energetic, but the noise level isn’t ideal for deep conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — they hold some walk-in tables, but expect a short wait during dinner rush; bar seating is usually open faster.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — the atmosphere is family-tolerant with high chairs and kid-friendly taco combos; afternoons are more relaxed than evening hours.
Best For
Better for: Group dinners, casual celebrations, and quick margarita-fueled taco rounds — more lively and consistent than nearby counter-only taquerias.
Skip if: You’re seeking quiet conversation, refined Mexican cuisine, or late-night dining — other spots fit those better.
Tacolicious (Marina)
8.1
Chestnut Street standby for mix-and-match tacos, fast pacing, and margaritas that keep weekends buzzing. It’s the reliable late option for groups who want variety without slowing down the night.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baja fish taco, Guajillo beef taco, Carnitas taco
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Late weekend dinner hours with a deep taco lineup.
Who should go: Groups wanting reliable tacos fast
When to visit: Fri–Sat after 9pm for late service
What to order: Baja fish, guajillo beef, carnitas
Insider tip: Share a salsa sampler to customize heat across the table.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only along Chestnut and adjacent side streets; can be tough after 7pm, especially on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and casual tops are fine, but most guests dress nicely for night-out energy.
Noise level: Lively and energetic — conversation possible but expect bar buzz during peak hours.
Weekend wait: Expect 30–45 minutes without a reservation after 8pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; walk-ins welcome.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several taco fillings and starters are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited – 1–2 options like grilled veggie tacos and guacamole.
Gluten-free options: Yes – corn tortillas and most proteins are gluten-free, but shared kitchen surfaces apply.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual or second dates than romantic first impressions; fun energy and easy menu but on the louder side.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, especially early evening or weekday nights. Late weekends often require a wait, but bar seating turns quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes – daytime and early dinners work well for families; staff are friendly and portions are shareable.
Best For
Better for: Group hangouts and taco variety; service is faster and more polished than typical taquerias nearby.
Skip if: You want a quiet dinner or traditional street-style tacos — Flores or Sacred Taco fit better for those moods.
Tacolicious (Marina)
8.1
Chestnut Street standby for mix-and-match tacos, fresh salsas, and quick pacing that holds up late on weekends. Families and friend groups land here for dependable plates and an energetic room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baja fish taco, Guajillo beef taco, Guacamole with chips
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Late weekend hours with a deep salsa lineup and quick turns.
Who should go: Groups that want reliable tacos fast
When to visit: Thu–Sat after 9pm for late-night tacos
What to order: Baja fish, guajillo beef, salsa sampler
Insider tip: Order a side trio of salsas to customize heat across the table.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only—tight on Chestnut after 6pm; try side streets near Scott or fillmore after 9pm for better luck.
Dress code: Casual but lively—jeans and a nice top fit right in; many patrons come from nearby bars or the gym.
Noise level: High-energy buzz—conversation possible in smaller groups but tough at peak hours.
Weekend wait: 35–55 minutes for groups after 8pm; bar seats turn faster.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; fast table turnover midweek.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple tacos, sides, and salads marked clearly on the menu.
Vegan options: Limited—2–3 items like the veggie taco and guacamole can be made vegan on request.
Gluten-free options: Yes—most tacos can be served on corn tortillas; fryer not fully gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual or second dates—energetic atmosphere and shared plates encourage conversation without formality.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, especially for smaller groups before 7pm or after 9:30pm; expect to leave your name and grab a drink next door if it’s peak.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for early evenings—staff are used to families and have kid-friendly taco options, but volume ramps up later at night.
Best For
Better for: Quick group meals and casual margarita nights—service is faster and more organized than smaller taquerias nearby.
Skip if: You want a quiet or romantic meal; go to Flores or West Coast Tacos for a calmer late-night setting.
Tacolicious (Marina)
8.1
Chestnut Street standby for mix-and-match tacos, kid-friendly plates, and quick pacing. The menu balances NorCal produce with Cal-Mex favorites and a strong salsa lineup.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baja fish taco, Guajillo-braised beef taco, Totopos with guacamole
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Reliable tacos, speedy service, and kid-friendly flow on Chestnut.
Who should go: Parents who want fast, sit-down tacos
When to visit: Weeknights 5–6:30pm for shortest waits
What to order: Baja fish, guajillo beef, guacamole with chips
Insider tip: Mix salsas—ask for a side trio to sample heat levels.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Chestnut and surrounding side streets; metered spots fill quickly after 6pm, so plan a short walk from nearby residential blocks.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; jeans, tees, and sneakers are the norm, though it fits fine for a relaxed post-work dinner.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — conversation is easy at lunch but expect a buzz during dinner hours, especially on weekends.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes during prime hours; bar seating often opens sooner.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before 12:15pm; quick turnover even at peak.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple tacos, salads, and sides built around seasonal vegetables and beans.
Vegan options: Limited — 2–3 options can be made vegan by omitting cheese or crema; ask staff for modifications.
Gluten-free options: Yes — most tacos use corn tortillas; chips and salsas are gluten-free, but fryer cross-contact possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re going casual — it’s fun, fast, and energetic, but the lively crowd and shared plates lean more toward a low-pressure outing than a romantic setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, they hold tables for walk-ins. Go early (before 6pm) or late (after 8pm) to avoid the family rush; larger parties may wait longer on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Very — high chairs available, accommodating servers, and a kids’ menu with smaller taco plates and mild salsas. Great for families with children ages 3 and up.
Best For
Better for: Group dinners, quick family meals, and casual taco cravings with consistent quality.
Skip if: You’re seeking quiet dining, authentic regional Mexican depth, or an extended sit-down experience — head to Flores or Nopalito instead.
Tacolicious (Marina)
7.9
Lively Marina outpost for tacos, shareable plates, and margaritas with sidewalk seating. Reliable for groups and after-work hangs, with consistent service and a broad menu that covers classics and bowls.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor Tacos, Guacamole with Chips, Carne Asada Taco Trio
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Broad taco lineup with buzzy bar and patio seating.
Who should go: Friends meeting over tacos and margs
When to visit: Weekdays 3–6pm happy hour
What to order: Al pastor tacos, guacamole, carne asada trio
Insider tip: Covered, heated parklet seats are first-come—arrive early.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Chestnut and surrounding blocks; expect competition after 6pm. No valet service.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans and polos fine, but many lean stylish for Marina evenings.
Noise level: Lively and energetic indoors; patio is moderately noisy but still conversational.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes for walk-ins during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; immediate seating available.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several tacos and sides like sweet potato and mushroom options.
Vegan options: Limited—request modifications for veggie tacos and bowls.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas available and most proteins are gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual or second dates—fun atmosphere and cocktails, but can be loud for intimate conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are common, especially weekdays and early evenings; expect to wait at peak dinner times.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—high chairs available and simple taco options suit kids, though noise and bar energy make it more adult-oriented after 7pm.
Best For
Better for: Groups, happy hour meetups, and casual dinners with margaritas in a lively setting.
Skip if: You’re seeking quiet dining, upscale ambiance, or deeply regional Mexican fare.