Recently, I had to take my car in for servicing and decided to wait. I was a bit hungry and wanted a bit more than the usual coffee shop fare I’ve usually gotten in the area. I headed on out and this time walked in the opposite direction of my usual path to the corner of Fairmount and Camino del Rio North. And I then recalled a taco shop that Cathy had posted on in that strip mall. Having noted that other than Stabucks, it was the only place open at 8 in the morning in the mall.
Named Crack Taco Shop.
Cathy had noted that this shop had been opened by the owners of Seaside Market in Cardiff, which was noted for their tri-tip. So, I headed on over.
The place was empty during my entire visit….but the lovely smoke and fragrance of meat permeated the place. You could see the smoke floating above the tables…..I’m surprised the smoke alarms weren’t triggered!
The woman working was very friendly and sweet.
And I decided to try the Al Pastor (of course) and the Tri-tip (double of course) tacos, $4.95 each.
I took a seat at one of the tables; hoping I wouldn’t walk back to pick up my car smelling like I’d just eaten at a Korean BBQ……
And soon enough, the woman came by with my tacos and some fairly picante salsa roja.
The tacos were quite hefty; though I’m not sold on paying over four bucks a piece for these.
The tortillas were interesting, on the fluffy side, though decently maizey, and held up well.
The guacamole was creamy and nicely flavored, and almost refreshing. Sadly, that’s where all the positive vibes ended.
The Al Pastor had obviously been reheated on the flat top and was very tough.
More like a gringo adobada, quite bland in flavor, missing the smokiness and sweet-tangy touches….this was just plain bland.
As for the so called Tri-tip…man this was also on the tougher side, though more tender than the Al Pastor.
The tri-tip, other than being salty, was so bland. Really lacking in beefiness, smokiness, or other basic flavoring. It was nice and greasy though.
I think this place might have gone downhill since Cathy ate here a bit over three years ago and during Soo’s visit over four years ago.. Personally, I think your friendly neighborhood taco shop might do better than this!
Bummer….
Crack Taco Shop
4242 Camino Del Rio North
San Diego, CA 92108
Current Hours:
Daily 7am – Midnight
Well, I need to find places to grab a morning bite round these parts……..