This is way, way off the beaten path. Located in the heart of El Cajon’s Bostonia neighborhood, Rodeos Market is a gem in a gem-field of great places to eat along Broadway.

Inside you’ll find all the normal stuff you’d expect in a Mexican meat market. Lots of meat, lots of vegetables, lots of fruits, and a few grocery items you don’t typically find in communities which don’t border Mexico.

But Rodeo’s also has an excellent taco counter. Don’t be shy, step up to the counter and ask the lovely staff what they have cooking. On a normal day you’ll find carne asada, carnitas, and pollo asada. But on some days you’ll find several other options, including my favorite guilty pleasure… lengua. (Beef tongue) This perfectly cooked meat is tender and full of flavor. It’s similar in texture to pot roast but with even more flavor.

I typically order three street tacos (pretty small) and then walk to the back of the shop to score a Jarritos. (They also sell Coca-Cola made with real sugar!) Then I head to the produce area and grab a fresh avacado. After I pick up my little bundle of taste from the counter, I head to the cash register and take my pick of wonderful Mexican candies. My favorite candy at Rodeos is the coconut bars colored like the Mexican flag.

After paying, head outside and grab a stool by the counter. You can enjoy a little taste of East County culture while you indulge in the best street tacos in East County.

When you think of San Diego County you may not think of good BBQ. Well, Geno’s in El Cajon will introduce you to West Coast styled BBQ in a fun way. Situated on Main Street in El Cajon, the exterior of the building makes it clear that this used to be a Taco Bell. Inside you’ll find a small seating area with a local vibe.

The menu at Geno’s is pretty basic. My favorite sandwich is the Wipe Out. This pulled pork sandwich covered in cole slaw is a little messy but has great flavor. If you’d like to continue the exploration allow me to suggest a side of mashed potatoes. Together they make an awesome comfort food package.

I don’t want to kid you into thinking this is the best place in East County. It’s not. But if you are in El Cajon and you’d like to avoid the plethora of chains and greasy spoons, Geno’s is a solid addition to your repertoire.