Tacotopia at the Racetrack

The San Diego Reader has been showcasing San Diego's most famous food item, the taco for the past couple of years. If you haven't yet attended one, I highly, highly recommend it. What, I ask you, what could be better than hanging out in the warm sunshine, sampling tacos from the city's finest? Tacotopia is a contest of sorts, wherein attendees sample over 40 different vendors' taco offerings, then select a winner based on innovation, and of course, best traditional taco.

The summer event was held at the majestic Del Mar racetrack, which I have thoroughly enjoyed attending this year. Gathered were 40 of the best and most innovative purveyors of tacos in the San Diego metro area. I really can't say enough good things about this event, so I'll just do a brief discussion of some of my favorites!

Lolita's was my first taste, a pollo asado taco with all of the classic toppings. Very tasty, very traditional.

I absolutely adored the chicken mole taco served by Common Theory. Rich, classic, and delicious, and topped with pickled onion, this taco was savory heaven.

A very unique taco was served by South Park Brewing Company. Kalua pork and a sweet pineapple and cabbage slaw was combined to make a perfect sweet and salty bite. Very fresh tasting, and surprising.

Another favorite (but who am I kidding, I didn't have a bad bite all day) was the Japanese take on a taco by The Patio. Seasoned sashimi tuna wrapped up in a fried wonton wrapper, served with seasoned, sliced cucumber. Absolutely perfect for a hot summer day; light and filling.

Most original taco of the day was from City Tacos. Kalua pork served with a slaw of mango and greens, accented with pork rinds and a two-colored shell! Beautiful to behold, and delicious to eat!

Their neighbors, Tostadas, served up fresh seafood tostadas topped with sushi tuna, avocado, tomatoes, and spicy mayonnaise.

TJ Oyster Bar served up a high quality, classic shrimp taco. Sauteed shrimp with lots of cheese! Yum.

The winner for the event was Blue Water Seafood with a spicy shrimp taco that perfectly capture San Diego and all of its seafood taco glory. Fresh ingredients and classic styling go a long way!