Raul's Shack Mexican Food, nestled at 490 S Coast Hwy 101 in Encinitas, CA, has solidified its reputation as a go-to destination for authentic Mexican cuisine. Customers rave about the exquisite flavors and generous portions, making it difficult to resist their tempting combo plates, including the Chile Verde and the scrumptious soft tacos. Kendall Terra praised the superior quality of the tortillas and the perfectly cooked peppers in the Chicken Fajita dish, highlighting their ability to stay fresh even on a road trip. The atmosphere at Raul's Shack adds to its charm, with Robert Maldonado noting the delightful ambience complemented by the sounds of opera from the nearby 7/11. Catherine McLaughlin's endorsement of their tacos as the best she's ever had echoes a sentiment shared by many. The extensive selection of fresh salsas and sauces offers an avenue for flavor experimentation that ensures each visit feels unique. Though prices have slightly increased, as reflected in Anya Vail's nostalgic revisit, most patrons agree that the quality certainly justifies it. Danita Garcia, a visiting Mexican tourist, attests to the authentic flavor of the asada, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to genuine Mexican fare. With friendly service and an inviting vibe, Raul's Shack Mexican Food is unmistakably a culinary gem worth discovering in Encinitas.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Has no-contact delivery
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fast service
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has seating
Atmosphere
Casual
Crowd
Popular with tourists
Popular with university students
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Photos
Reviews For Raul's Shack Mexican Food
Kendall Terra
May 25,2025
The tortilla was soooo good. Picked these up on the way to the desert and they held up amazingly until lunch! Chicken Fajita is pictured! Loved the peppers - they were cooked to perfection. ...
Robert Maldonado
Apr 13,2025
Cute but delicious. If you drive or walk too fast you might mias this Encinitas gem. Highly recommend their chile verde.... I had the pork and the flavors were all there. Then you add those views and atmosphere. Even the 7/11 across the street plays ambient music (opera)
Catherine McLaughlin
Mar 28,2025
Best tacos I've ever had. Authentic and so flavorful. They have a huge selection of fresh salsas and sauces. THE BEST. Do yourself a favor and go. Oh yeah, also super fair cheap prices.
Anya Vail
Mar 6,2025
I used to live in walking distance to this restaurant so it was really nostalgic to visit again for the first time in years. The food is just as good as I remembered it but the prices definitely changed since I last remembered. It seems most businesses of Encinitas have increased prices to go along with higher price of living so I'm not too surprised. I still love to see Rauls a popular place to eat as ever.
Danita Garcia
Mar 5,2025
As a Mexican tourist, I vouch for this Tacos. Friendly staff, spicy salsa and good flavor. Asada was my favorite. If you are chilango, the pastor it’s not going to be you favorite, but the variety is very good.
Madison Murphy
Mar 2,2025
This is one of my favorite spots for a solid taco. I recommend the pork taco and adobaba. They are both very tender, tasty, and high quality. Service is always great and they are usually pretty quick. Very reasonable too. Their enchiladas are great as well. Fun spot in the heart of Encinitas and don’t miss out on refreshing gelato right next door!
Steven Harrigan
Mar 2,2025
Street tacos, rolled tacos were incredible. Homemade salsa to die for. Surf and turf burrito was perfect, and I'm picky.
Sheila Brennan
Feb 19,2025
A local shop owner recommended this little Mexican joint. Great friendly family owned restaurant with a wide variety of choices from breakfast to dinner with lots of choices including plenty of vegetarian choices. Outside seatlng right up the street from ocean.
Reviews For Raul's Shack Mexican Food