LEUCADIA (CBS 8) - Along a lazy stretch of the North Coast Highway, you'll find a colorful mosaic of merchants in old Leucadia. On this time-warped roadway, Haggo's Organic Taco is the perfect fit.
At first glance, Haggo's looks something that would pop out at you along a deserted Baja two-lane, but James Haggard has created more than your typical taco shop.
"Well, I slided in with my niche by using organic ingredients, is my first thing. Then I wanted to use more local stuff as well," James said.
Alongside chef April, Haggo's grills with a flair. The fish taco plate is a house specialty.
"It's called the Cousteau, in appreciation of Jacques Cousteau," James said. "Spiced halibut with spice rub on it. I only order about five or six pounds, so I don't bring in a lot of fish. So I never have to freeze it."
And what San Diego news hack could resist Haggo's nod to the anchorman -- the Burgundy Burrito.
"The Burgundy always has the caramelized onions with it and we used the grass-fed flank steak," James said.
All plates come with rice and beans.
"For 95 percent certifiable organic ingredients, it's a very good value," James said.
James may work out of a trailer, but he's not your typical fry cook. For years, he's culled his culinary chops at Rancho Valencia. Now he's right at home in Leucadia.
"This is definitely charming. I'm very happy to be here," he said.
Located just north of Leucadia Boulevard, Haggo's is only 550 square feet with no indoor seating. Hours are also limited.
"We're only open 11 to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday," James said.
In a neighborhood known for its local color, this diminutive diner serves up some of Leucadia's favorite flavors.
Haggo's Organic Taco
1114 N Coast Highway 101
Encinitas, CA
(760) 753-6000