Tijuana institution Tacos El Franc kicks off U.S. expansion in National City

What they're saying: "Expansion is at the core of what we're doing, but we want to do it at a pace where we know we're doing an amazing job no matter where we are," co-owner Roberto Kelly said.

• A second San Diego location is expected in Gaslamp this summer, and Kelly said a Nevada outpost will follow soon after.
• "We want to grow where we start with a main, large operation that can be a commissary to help us spread from there," he said. "It's the In-N-Out model."

Catch-up quick: Tacos El Franc started as a street cart in 1974 and grew to a brick-and-mortar in 1996.

• It was also featured on Netflix's "Taco Chronicles."

What to try: Its claim to fame is the roasted adobada shaved from a spit, which Kelly recommends ordering "crispy."

• The charcoal-grilled carne asada is the biggest seller and distinguishes itself from now-common imitators with a topping of perfectly cooked pinto beans.
• The cabeza taco is tender and dripping with slow-cooked flavor.

What's next: Get there early — there was a line around the block by 11:30am on opening day Wednesday.

• The line moves fast, and the food comes quick, but expect a crowd.