Food guide
What Is a California Burrito? San Diego’s Favorite, Explained
Carne asada and french fries, wrapped together. Here’s what goes in San Diego’s most famous burrito, plus the local classics you should try next.
A California burrito is carne asada, french fries and cheese rolled into a big flour tortilla, usually with sour cream, guacamole or pico de gallo. It’s pure San Diego: you’ll find it at nearly every taco shop in the county, and it’s the burrito locals tell visitors to order first.
What goes in a California burrito
- Carne asada: grilled, chopped steak
- French fries: right inside the burrito. That’s the whole point.
- Cheese
- Sour cream, guacamole and/or pico de gallo, depending on the shop
Where it came from
The California burrito was born in San Diego’s taco shops. A few local spots claim they invented it, and nobody has settled the debate, which is pretty on brand for San Diego food.
California burrito vs. carne asada burrito
In San Diego, a classic carne asada burrito is simple: steak, guacamole and pico de gallo. The California burrito adds fries and cheese and turns it into a full meal.
Other San Diego taco shop classics
- Carne asada fries: the California burrito without the tortilla
- Rolled tacos: crispy and topped with guacamole and cheese
- Adobada: chile-marinated pork, San Diego’s name for al pastor-style tacos
- Fish tacos: Baja-style, beer-battered, with cabbage and white sauce
Try ours in La Mesa
Our California burrito is one of the most-ordered things on the menu. Feeling bold? Regulars love the Hot Cheeto carne asada burrito. We’re at 6903 University Ave, open from 9am every day. Call (619) 467-7020 to order ahead.
Quick answers
What is in a California burrito?
Carne asada (grilled steak), french fries and cheese in a large flour tortilla, usually with sour cream, guacamole or pico de gallo.
Where did the California burrito come from?
It’s a San Diego creation from local taco shops. Several San Diego shops claim to have invented it, and the exact origin is still debated.
What is the difference between a California burrito and a carne asada burrito?
A San Diego carne asada burrito is usually just steak, guacamole and pico de gallo. The California burrito adds french fries and cheese.
Where can I get a California burrito in La Mesa?
Dos Bros Tacos & Deli at 6903 University Ave, La Mesa, serves California burritos daily from 9am, plus a Hot Cheeto carne asada burrito.
Dos Bros Tacos & Deli · 6903 University Ave, La Mesa · Open daily from 9am