Lengua tacos at the Blind Burro
Lengua tacos at the Blind Burro. Photo courtesy of the restaurant

The Blue Line extension to San Diego’s trolley system has been heralded for its new reach, stretching from the border to La Jolla.

The San Diego Tourism Authority, however, would like you to look at it another way – as the “Taco Trolley.”

This $2.2 billion expansion, tourism officials argue, won’t just be a boon for commuters and students, but also opens up opportunities for tourists and day trippers seeking activities, from sightseeing to shopping to, yes, taco tasting.

Here’s their recommended itinerary, from north to south:

  • UTC Trolley station – Shop at Westfield UTC after stopping by Tocaya Modern Mexican, a casual eatery known for its healthy fare and vegan options.
  • Clairemont Drive Trolley station – eight stops away, take a short walk to Mike’s Red Tacos, a food truck in Bay Park. The truck, which has birria tacos, is only open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays. But get there early, because they do sell out.
  • Old Town Trolley station – explore Old Town for its traditional delights – buildings and museums from the 19th century, along with more than 30 neighboring restaurants. Or try the new Old Town Urban Market, an outdoor dining and entertainment complex six blocks from the station, home to Tuetano Taqueria, which specializes in Tijuana-style birria tacos.
  • Washington Street stop – Walk up the hill to the Lucha Libre Taco Shop, where the décor is inspired by Mexican wrestling, and the dishes too, like the “undefeated seafood taco.” Also available to reserve – “Champ’s Booth,” a gold vinyl booth with its own special menu.
  • County Center/Little Italy station – Walk to King and Queen Cantina, an art-filled eatery. The eclectic menu features specialty tacos, including a Cheetos asada taco, which comes with yes, Flamin’ Hot Cheetos.
  • Santa Fe Depot – Transfer here to the Green Line to head to the Seaport Village station. From there, try Puesto at the Headquarters for Mexico City-inspired tacos.
  • Gaslamp Quarter station – Stay on the Green Line to reach The Blind Burro, near Petco Park, which specializes in Baja coastal cuisine like coffee-rubbed salmon and cilantro-lime grilled shrimp.
  • 12th & Imperial station – Head here to jump back on the Blue Line for a trip to Barrio Logan. Past Chicano Park and its heralded murals, is ¡SALUD TACOS! on Logan Avenue, with street food and tattoo-inspired wall art.

Day passes for adults start at $6. See the Metropolitan Transit System for schedules and fare options.