Our Story

We didn’t set out to become famous — we just wanted to serve good tacos, made the right way.

In 1996, Don Javier Valadez opened a small taquería on a corner of Tijuana with one goal: to feed people generously, with honest ingredients and a deep respect for tradition. No flashy signs, no shortcuts — just the aroma of adobo on the trompo, the crackle of carne asada on the charcoal grill, and a line of loyal customers who knew they were in for something special.

Word spread, slowly but surely — not through marketing, but through trust, taste, and time. Families returned week after week. Locals brought their friends from both sides of the border. Visitors left talking about “that taco spot” on the corner. And before we knew it, our humble kitchen became part of Tijuana’s story.

Tacos El Franc has since been featured on Netflix’s Taco Chronicles and recognized by the Michelin Guide 2024— honors we never expected, but deeply appreciate. Still, we’ve never lost sight of who we are or where we started.

We’re a family-run taqueria. We believe in hard work, full plates, and the power of a well-made taco to bring people together.

No matter how far we go, we’ll always be rooted in the flavors and values that built us.

This is Tacos El Franc. Welcome to our story.