Founded by local entrepreneur Michael Touma, Mike’s Red Tacos started as a humble food truck in Bay Park in June 2021. Gaining a cult following for its rich, slow-cooked birria offerings and vibrant red taco shells dipped in chili oil, the brand quickly transitioned to permanent locations. Touma opened the first storefront in Clairemont Mesa in 2022, followed by a second branch in Point Loma in May 2024.
Known for its short but focused menu, Mike’s Red Tacos centers its offerings around juicy, slow-simmered beef birria served in a variety of creative formats. Popular menu items include cheesy birria tacos with consommé for dipping, birria ramen, loaded nachos and fries, quesadillas, burritos, mulitas, veggie tacos, and the viral Crunchstack - a Taco Bell-inspired tostada creation wrapped in a grilled flour tortilla. The concept also offers a salsa bar, chips, churros, and budget-friendly prices that appeal to students and families alike.
In 2023, Mike’s Red Tacos earned national recognition when it was ranked No. 52 on Yelp's Top 100 Places to Eat in the U.S. - the only taco-focused eatery to make the list. The brand has built a reputation not just for its flavorful food, but also for quick service and bold branding, complete with signature red-stained tacos that have become social media darlings.
Mike’s Red Tacos is expected to open in the coming months at 9089 Mira Mesa Boulevard in San Diego's Mira Mesa community. For more information, visit mikesredtacos.com.
Originally published on July 15, 2025.