Vallarta Express Mexican Eatery
Vallarta, I love you.
Vallarta is across the street from El Cotixan and it came long after El Cotixan. When they first built it, I was completely opposed to going there even though the drive-through seemed convenient. I lowkey felt offended that another 24/7 Mexican restaurant would try to compete with El Cotixan across the street. However, I eventually tried it one day and it has kind of replaced El Co for me.
I have a conspiracy theory that El Co and Vallarta are run by the same people because their hot sauce tastes exactly the same at both places.
The burrito that stole my heart is the Super Breakfast Burrito. It is huge, enough for two meals, and it’s only $8. I usually eat half and put the other half in the fridge for later. Some non-San Diegans I know have told me that burritos are gross after sitting in the fridge for a day because the tortilla gets soggy, but I have never experienced a soggy tortilla with any San Diego burrito so don’t worry about that. It is just as good the next day.
It has eggs, beans, rice, cheese, potatoes, and bacon, but I always replace the meat with guacamole. If you come here, you have to get it and eat it on the beach because the seating and location of this restaurant kind of suck and it tastes better with a nice view.
PRO TIP: If you can't handle spicy food, ask for green hot sauce instead of orange. It still has lots of flavor but is slightly more tart and less spicy.