TACOS & COCKTAILS

LOLA 55 is a fine casual restaurant offering a taco-focused menu.

Our menu is the result of two years of research throughout Mexico, including Mexico City and Oaxaca.

The tacos are made using the same ingredients found in most households throughout Mexico, including freshly made tortillas.

All of our specialty cocktails have been crafted to complement our tacos.

WHO WE ARE

We aren’t just another taco joint; LOLA 55 is a culinary experience deeply rooted in research, heritage, and a profound connection to the vibrant flavors of Mexico. Our story begins with Tijuana-born founder Frank Vizcarra whose quest to bring authentic, chef-driven tacos to San Diego precipitated an extensive coast-to-coast exploration, visiting over 150 taquerias across the U.S. and Mexico to uncover the quintessence of authentic Mexican cuisine.

Finding inspiration in the creativity that surrounds us, LOLA 55 draws upon the innovative spirit of today’s top chefs, while honoring the indigenous originators who came before. We’re not “reinventing” the taco; we’re celebrating its legacy through a modern lens. Our dedication to craftsmanship is evident in every freshly made tortilla, every meticulously crafted marinade, and every thoughtfully paired salsa blend.

Today, LOLA 55 stands as San Diego’s sole MICHELIN Bib Gourmand taqueria. From our flagship in East Village to our expansion into Carlsbad, we continue to push the boundaries of flavor while staying true to the artistry of tradition.

OUR TAKE ON THE TACO

At LOLA 55, we embarked on a journey to honor the iconic taco by infusing it with fresh flavors and elevated sensibilities that speak to the new generation of food lovers.

Take, for example, our fan-favorite Steak Taco: a 24-hour marination process sees the tender flank saturated with a signature blend of dried chilies and spices, before absorbing the mesquite flavor from the wood-fire grill and being set down on a bed of papas negras purée. The jalapeños tornados are slow-roasted and marinated in ponzu, while the onions are delicately chopped and coated in a housemade dredge before being fried to a golden crisp. Our avocado mousse lends a creamy richness and our from-scratch pasilla salsa packs a smoky punch. It’s a labor of love that embodies our deep respect for the taco’s humble roots and the culinary traditions that inspire us.

But it’s not just about one taco. This meticulous approach is the LOLA 55 standard. From the bold flavors of our pork belly al pastor to the satiating vibrancy of our vegan options, each taco tells a story of passion and purpose, weaving the colorful tapestry of flavors found in Mexican cuisine. It’s our way of honoring tradition while embracing innovation, inviting our guests to embark on a culinary journey that speaks to the heart of our craft.

TLDR: Standing as San Diego’s only MICHELIN Bib Gourmand taqueria, LOLA 55 is a modern gastronomic experience deeply rooted in Mexican heritage and culinary craftsmanship. Our menu is a result of meticulous research and immersive travels throughout Mexico and beyond, delivering a lineup of award-winning chef-driven tacos steeped in regional tradition.