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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to El Cajon

Mexican food

You want Mexican food that hits the mark every time you sit down to eat.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Mi Taco Shop image 1
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Mexican restaurant

Small, family-owned spot offers huge portions of authentic carne asada and classic Mexican dishes. Tacos and burritos are savory and not greasy, while crispy rolled tacos pack lots of meat. Fresh homemade horchata adds a unique touch to this affordable takeaway.

Tacos and burritos come with savory carne asada and are not greasy. The crispy rolled tacos pack lots of meat, and the homemade horchata stands out with its fresh taste.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be really, really delicious."

"I found the food here to be really delicious and not greasy."

"The carne asada burrito is huge and authentically seasoned."

Good to know

1

Mini Tacos on Tuesday cost $1.99.

2

The shop doesn't offer dine-in service; it's take away only.

3

The portion sizes are impressive and provide great value.

02
Ama’s taqueria y cocina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Colorful, authentic Mexican decor sets a family-friendly atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating. Homestyle dishes like Al Pastor tacos come with fresh, homemade salsas. Vibrant music and a warm vibe create a hidden gem experience full of strong cultural energy.

Authentic homestyle Mexican food shines with flavorful meats and generous toppings like guacamole, cilantro, and onion. Dishes like Al Pastor tacos, sopes, and tripe tacos come with homemade salsas that add a fresh, vibrant touch.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be authentic and flavorful."

"I found the breakfast burritos here to be amazing."

"The Mexican food here has flavorful grilled shrimp and asada tacos."

Good to know

1

There are no public restrooms at this taqueria.

2

The prices are very affordable for authentic Mexican food.

3

Parking is easy to find near the restaurant.

03
La Cresta Restaurant and Caffé image 1

Quaint Mexican spot offers high-quality fish tacos and a huge California #2 burrito. Family-owned with a dive bar vibe and live music on Fridays, it feels like a fun community hub. Generous portions and friendly atmosphere make it a local favorite.

Fish tacos stand out for their high quality and good price. The California #2 burrito is huge and flavorful, served with salsa, guacamole, tortillas, and various meats.

People are saying

"It's a quaint, humble, family-owned establishment where you feel like family."

"The Mexican food here, especially the fish tacos, is the best I've ever had."

"The California #2 Burrito is my joy and my light."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers discounted tacos every Tuesday.

2

Live music happens on special Fridays, enhancing the dining experience.

3

Fish tacos are available at a very good price.

04
Que Torta Salads and more image 1

Small, quiet space with colorful walls creates a calm vibe. Delicious tortas shine with bold, spicy flavors. Fresh fruit salad adds a light touch. Friendly service enhances the Mexican food experience.

Tortas stand out with great flavor and spicy options like the spicy torta. Service supports the experience well, and the menu includes items like the tuna melt bagel.

People are saying

"I thought the tortas were excellent."

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

05
THE BURRITO CITY - San Diego image 1

Modern space offers a self-serve salsa bar with multiple options, creating a relaxed vibe. Burritos shine with creamy beans and cheese and a perfect tortilla texture. Regulars love the authentic surf and turf burrito and the fresh, colorful design.

Burritos feature creamy beans and cheese with a perfect mix of chewy and crispy tortillas that hold fillings well. The surf and turf burrito stands out for its taste, matching authentic Mexican quality.

People are saying

"The burritos here are juicy, flavorful, and not greasy."

"The shrimp in the burrito were legit and generous."

"The Mexican food burritos here are large and packed with juicy, flavorful meat."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of easy parking available in the shopping center.

2

The menu includes a variety of items like tacos, burritos, and seafood.

3

The establishment is very clean and well organized.

06
Tacos El Gallo image 1
Taco restaurant

Small taco shop serves authentic tacos like Al Pastor and Quesabirria with bold, rich flavors. Atmosphere feels like a family kitchen full of laughter and good energy. Clean dining area offers affordable prices and easy parking for a relaxed visit.

Tacos come with authentic flavors and include varieties like birria, al pastor, carne asada, and adobada. Dishes such as adobada fries and carne asada nachos offer rich, bold tastes with crispy and tender textures.

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be authentic and delicious."

"I thought the tacos here were the best in the area."

"I thought the Mexican food here was the best in the area."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available.

2

The tacos cost around $4 each, and they were small like street tacos.

3

The menu consists mostly of tacos and is not very extensive.

07
Ol' Rodeo's Market image 1
Mexican grocery store

Small family-owned market serves fresh meats and large burritos with authentic flavors in a casual, friendly spot. Birria and carne asada shine with rich taste and fresh tortillas. Quick service suits both dine-in and to-go customers.

Birria stands out with freshest meat and rich flavor, featured in burritos, tacos, and quesadillas. Other dishes like carne asada, menudo, and chorizo breakfast burritos come with fresh tortillas and queso fresco.

People are saying

"This family owned spot has the best birria, bursting with flavor."

"I found the best burrito in town here."

"I thought the birria here was delicious and bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

Expect quick service; visits can be under 5 minutes compared to larger stores.

2

The market offers a good selection of fresh produce, including mangos.

3

All meat packages are affordable and of high quality.

08
El Culichi - Birriería y Cenaduría image 1

Small, cozy spot with a family-friendly vibe and warm staff. Offers authentic birria in many forms and crispy tacos that capture fresh Mexican flavors. Clean, inviting space feels like visiting friends with traditional dishes.

Birria in multiple forms stands out here, including goat, beef, stew, tacos, cabeza, and lengua. The crispy beef and tongue tacos and Menudo dish also deliver authentic, fresh Mexican flavors without gimmicks.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious, especially the birria."

"I found the food to be authentic and delicious."

"It felt so cozy, like I was eating at home."

Good to know

1

Check your bill carefully as prices may differ from the menu due to tax.

2

The restaurant gets busy during lunch hours, so plan accordingly.

3

They offer to-go options with a broad menu selection.

09
Chuy's Taquería y Burritos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright lighting and colorful artwork create a lively spot with fresh ingredients. Burritos and tacos shine, especially the carne asada and California Shrimp Burrito. Limited seating means quick, friendly service and fast dining.

Burritos and tacos stand out with options like steak and bacon or carne asada that taste fresh and flavorful. The menu includes vegetarian choices and unique items like the California Shrimp Burrito and Elote Fries, all served with friendly, attentive service.

People are saying

"I thought the burritos here were fantastic and flavorful."

"I found the tacos to be delicious and uniquely good."

"I thought the burritos here were fantastic."

Good to know

1

Most burritos cost around $11, with tacos priced at $4 each.

2

Chuy's offers a large menu with various options for customization.

3

Expect a casual dining experience with no reservations needed.

10
La Posta De Acapulco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican food shines with awesome salsas and a lively salsa bar for snacking. Enjoy carne asada quesadillas and a surf and turf burrito made from high-quality ingredients. The place buzzes with a crowded atmosphere perfect for a relaxed, flavorful meal at fair prices.

Mexican food features awesome salsas and a salsa bar for snacking. Dishes include rolled tacos with guacamole, a meaty Cali burrito, surf and turf burrito, breakfast burrito, and quesadillas with excellent Carne Asada.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be excellent."

"I found the salsas to be awesome."

"I considered this the best Mexican food in the area."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak dinner hours.

3

The average meal cost is around $30 per person.

11
Sombrero Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy fresh tacos and breakfast burritos served fast in a clean environment with friendly staff. Generous portions like carne asada fries make meals satisfying. Quick service and a rewards program add extra value to every visit.

Tacos and burritos come fresh and fast with real ingredients and a tasty green salsa. Friendly staff serve up breakfast burritos and combos with quick, clean service.

People are saying

"I loved the fresh, flavorful Mexican food, especially the burritos."

"I found the food here to be delicious and served quickly."

"I loved their chips and salsa; the green salsa had a nice flavor."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers discounted tacos every Tuesday.

2

They offer a free birthday burrito for loyalty members.

3

Expect longer wait times for well-done fries.

12
Taco Azul, INC image 1
Taco restaurant

Small taco shop offers authentic Mexican food with blue corn tortillas and homemade avocado salsa. Street tacos are affordable and attract locals. Kitchen stays clean and organized, seating is minimal but comfortable.

Street tacos stand out with blue corn tortillas and homemade avocado salsa. Carne asada comes well seasoned and lean, while cochinita pibil offers rich flavor at affordable prices.

People are saying

"The tacos and burritos here are delicious and made with fresh ingredients."

"The food here is homemade, fresh, and delicious."

"I found the carne asada perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Street tacos cost $1.25 each.

2

Fish tacos are priced at $3.00 each.

3

Taco deals include 2 fish tacos for $3.00.

13
Pancho's Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic dishes like carnitas Michoacan and the Gordo Plate. Colorful decor and stained glass windows create a cozy vibe. Enjoy generous portions and excellent margaritas in a relaxed, family-friendly spot.

Authentic Mexican food shines with dishes like the carnitas Michoacan style and the Gordo Plate featuring a beef hard taco, cheese enchilada, beef tamale, and chili relleno. The mango margarita pairs well with the generous portions and flavorful sauces.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing and delicious."

"The shrimp here is always cooked perfectly."

"The chips and salsa have good flavor and spice."

Good to know

1

Expect a short wait on weekends, but weekdays are less busy.

2

Lunch specials are available Monday to Friday for $8.99.

3

Plenty of off-street parking is available for guests.

14
Tortillería Salsa image 1
Grocery store

Small, cozy market offers fresh tortillas and a wide range of authentic ingredients. Mexican dishes like carne asada and flavorful salsas shine here. Space feels tight but adds to the hometown charm.

Fresh tortillas and flavorful salsas stand out here. The carne asada, carnitas, and chicharrón come fresh and tasty, with chips, guacamole, and potato wedges adding variety.

People are saying

"I found the tortillas here to be fresh and delicious."

"The staff at this Grocery Store were so nice and offered good service."

"Their Mexican food, especially the tortillas, is fresh and fantastic."

Good to know

1

The store offers a variety of fresh produce and tortillas.

2

Parking access is convenient for visitors.

3

Expect limited space, making it cramped for larger groups.

15
Garcia's Puebla Mercado image 1
Mexican grocery store

Hole-in-the-wall Mexican grocery shines with authentic tamales and fresh homemade tortillas. Owner involvement and tasting opportunities create a personal, authentic experience. Vibrant atmosphere with piñatas and salsa bar adds to the traditional market feel.

Tamales here have a high meat to masa ratio and come from a Mexican owner who prepares them 100% traditionally. Fresh tortillas, a salsa bar, and a variety of authentic ingredients support a full Mexican food experience.

People are saying

"The salsa here is always fresh and flavorful."

"I found the tamales here to be the best I have ever had."

"These tamales are the best Mexican food I've ever had."

Good to know

1

They charge $2 for credit card transactions.

2

The store sells piñatas and shopping supplies.

3

They offer a variety of Mexican sweets.

16
Mariscos La Bola image 1

Overhead tent offers cool shade while enjoying large fish tacos priced at $2.50. Seafood lovers will appreciate the Campechana cocktail with shrimp, oyster, and octopus. Hours can be unpredictable, so plan accordingly.

Fish tacos stand out with large size and flavorful taste similar to Ensenada style, priced at $2.50 each. Shrimp and fish tacos offer solid options, while most other tacos cost between $6 and $8.

People are saying

"You have to try the fish tacos; they're amazing and a great price."

"I found the food here to be amazing."

"You have to try the fish tacos; they're amazing and a great price."

Good to know

1

The food truck's hours of operation are often inaccurate and unreliable.

2

Prices for tacos range from $6 to $8 each, which may be considered high.

3

Expect to pay a premium for seafood dishes compared to other options.

17
Hooleys Public House image 1

Pub boasts a rustic atmosphere with a lively patio and classic beers on tap. Tacos are medium large and affordable, featuring unique options like corned beef and grilled fish. Taco Tuesday offers a great chance to sample various flavors in a fun setting.

Tacos come in medium large portions priced around $4.50 each, with options like corned beef and grilled fish tacos standing out. The hash taco offers an interesting twist, and Taco Tuesday features a variety of tacos to try.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always great."

"They have an incredible selection of local and Irish beers on tap."

"I thought their corned beef and grilled fish tacos were very good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great food deals.

2

Wednesday is half-price bottle wine night, perfect for wine lovers.

3

Brunch is served on weekends until 2:00 PM with a limited menu.

18
Daniel's Taco Shop image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy spot offers authentic Mexican food with standout dishes like green chicken enchiladas and adobada tacos. Large, generous burritos satisfy big appetites. Small free parking and a hole-in-the-wall vibe keep prices reasonable and atmosphere casual.

Authentic Mexican food shines with dishes like green chicken enchiladas and adobada tacos. Burritos come in very large portions, including a 1.3-foot-long option and a popular California burrito.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and served nice and hot."

"The breakfast burrito here always tastes amazing."

"The Mexican food here, especially the burritos, has generous portions."

Good to know

1

The parking lot is small but free.

2

Seating is limited at Daniel's Taco Shop.

3

Prices are very reasonable for the food offered.

19
Kaelin's Market image 1
Grocery store

Grocery store blends full-service butcher with a lively taco shop serving fresh birria and carnitas. Quiet, organized space offers authentic Mexican products and a fresh bakery for quick bites or takeout.

Freshly cooked Mexican food includes birria, carnitas, and carne asada with authentic corn tortillas. The taco shop offers quick, cheap tacos and a wide selection of salsas, cheese, and chips for takeout or a quick bite.

People are saying

"This grocery store has the best authentic Mexican food and fresh tortillas."

"This market has amazing Mexican food, especially the tamales and breads."

"The Mexican food here has amazing fresh tortillas and salsas."

Good to know

1

Kaelin's Market offers a wide variety of authentic Mexican products.

2

Prepared food is available both hot and cold for immediate consumption.

3

The store maintains a clean and organized environment.

20
Colima's Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic cuisine with huge fish tacos and fresh ceviche tostadas. Enjoy a chill vibe and friendly atmosphere with plenty of seating and a TV. Don't miss $2 Taco Tuesday specials for great value.

Fish tacos and burritos stand out with huge size and fresh, tasty flavors. Taco Tuesday offers tacos at $2 each, and ceviche tostadas, especially shrimp, are notably good.

People are saying

"The Mexican Food burritos here are huge, fresh, and tasty."

"I thought the food here was awesome and great quality."

"I had some great fish tacos here."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers $2 tacos each.

2

Prices have increased since before the pandemic.

3

Burritos with more than meat and pico de gallo now cost more than $10.

21
Rancho Villa's Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Vintage Taco Bell decor creates a nostalgic feel while the quiet, dull atmosphere suits quick visits. Burritos are big and flavorful, featuring fresh tortillas and real potatoes. A notable salsa bar adds zest, making it a solid spot for authentic Mexican food lovers.

Big burritos packed with real potatoes and fresh tortillas stand out here. The Fish Burrito with extra white sauce and perfectly prepared carne asada are highlights, alongside excellent chilaquiles and guacamole.

People are saying

"I found the burritos here to be delicious and big enough for two meals."

"The tortillas here are amazing and fresh."

"The Mexican Food here, especially the burritos, is delicious and huge."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos and drinks.

2

The restaurant operates on a self-service basis with no waitstaff.

3

Prices for menu items are generally average, with tacos starting at $7.

22
Albert's Fresh Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers carne asada enchiladas and rolled tacos with free chips and salsa. Elegant yet lively atmosphere features loud country music and an attached Cantina sports bar. Staff is friendly, making it a great spot for food and fun.

Carne asada enchiladas and rolled tacos stand out here, with the carne asada being very tasty and the carnitas melting in your mouth. Free chips and homemade salsa come with your order, and the staff is always nice.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and authentic."

"Their Mexican food is insanely good with fun, spicy twists."

"You've got to try the big rolled tacos here; they're awesome."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers both dine-in and takeout options for convenience.

2

Expect prices to be moderately priced, with burritos costing around $11.

3

The menu features a variety of options, including chicken roll tacos and adobada tacos.

23
Silva's Taco Shop image 1
Taco restaurant

Small indoor seating and a covered patio create a casual vibe. Breakfast burritos with hash brown patty and grilled carne asada tacos highlight classic Mexican flavors. Late hours and a walk-up window add convenience for a laid-back meal.

Breakfast burritos come with a hash brown patty inside, offering a unique twist. Carne asada tacos stand out as very good and satisfying. This spot serves consistent, classic Mexican food with a focus on tacos and burritos.

People are saying

"I found the breakfast burrito to be amazing and filling."

"I thought the tacos here were amazing and flavorful."

"I thought the Mexican food here was the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay higher prices for tacos compared to other local shops.

2

Parking is challenging due to the small lot and surrounding buildings.

3

The walk-up window allows for quick service and outdoor seating.

24
Yesenia's Mexican and Seafood image 1

Mexican food shines with carne asada fries and birria tacos served in large portions. Clean atmosphere features a well-stocked salsa bar perfect for flavor lovers. Sit-down dining offers a relaxed vibe without drive-thru options.

Carne asada fries stand out with great portions and flavor. Birria tacos and fish tacos also feature prominently, alongside a salsa bar and good menudo.

People are saying

"You have to try the carne asada fries; they're really good."

"The salsa bar has so many selections, it's fantastic."

"I found the breakfast here to be delicious and well prepared."

Good to know

1

They open at 9 am on Sundays.

2

Taco Tuesday offers amazing prices and huge portions.

3

Expect no waiting in line on most days.

25
Downtown Cafe Bar & Grill image 1

Large open-air patio with live music creates a lively spot for weekend fun. Tacos like fish and calamari shine alongside fajitas and guacamole. A cool bar with plenty of TVs adds to the energetic vibe and social scene.

Tacos stand out with options like fish and calamari and Birria available to go. Fajitas and guacamole with chips complement the menu, and happy hour offers five dollar tacos and cheeseburgers.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and a great time."

"You have to try the carnitas tacos; they're so good."

"I enjoyed their great happy hour."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2 to 5 pm with great deals on food and drinks.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere on popular nights, especially during live music events.

3

The venue has a dog-friendly outdoor seating area for pet owners.

26
Los Chavos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy huge burritos like carne asada and shrimp with bold flavors. Savor the best carne asada fries in town alongside unique dishes like pozole. Clean, nicely decorated space offers large portions at reasonable prices.

Huge, flavorful burritos stand out, especially the carne asada and shrimp burritos. Carne asada fries and the hot Cheeto burrito also offer bold, tasty options with reasonable prices.

People are saying

"This burrito is massive and worth the money."

"I thought these tacos were great; I'd give them 5 stars."

"The Mexican food portions here are huge and worth the money."

Good to know

1

Expect large portion sizes, often enough for two people.

2

Parking is limited, but generally easy to find nearby.

3

Daily specials are offered, providing good value.

27
Rita's Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy authentic shredded chicken burritos and potato tacos in a quiet, clean setting. Fresh rice, beans, and agua frescas add to the meal. Perfect for a low-key lunch or dinner with rolled tacos offering unique textures.

Shredded chicken and carne asada burritos stand out with authentic flavors and a hint of spice. Potato tacos and rolled tacos offer unique textures, while fresh rice, beans, salad, and agua frescas complement the meals.

People are saying

"I loved the food; it tasted so fresh and authentic."

"I've never had better rolled tacos or potato tacos."

"I've never had rolled tacos this good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during busy lunch hours.

3

Credit cards and cash are accepted; no personal checks.

28
El Cajon Bistro & Bakery-Bistro image 1

Cozy café offers a relaxed atmosphere with pretty outdoor landscaping and friendly vibe. Mexican dishes shine with rich mole twist in chilaquiles and omelets, paired well with strong coffee. Comfortable seating makes it perfect for a casual breakfast or brunch.

Chilaquiles come out flavorful and satisfying with a rich mole twist in the omelet and chilaquiles dishes. The tortilla soup pairs well with strong coffee, and the healthy breakfast burrito tastes savory without feeling like a sacrifice.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, rich, and delicious."

"I found the breakfast food here to be amazing."

"The Mexican food here is savory with great potatoes."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak breakfast hours.

2

Menu prices may be higher at checkout unless paying with cash.

3

Happy hour portion sizes are smaller than regular menu items.

29
664 TJ Birriería image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy fresh birria tacos with bold flavors in a quiet atmosphere that suits relaxed dining. Local crowd gathers here before lunch, appreciating the clean setting and well-prepared dishes like Birria Ramen and Tostabirria con queso.

Birria stands out with freshly made, hot birria tacos that taste like those from TJ. The menu also features Birria Ramen and Tostabirria con queso, both well prepared and flavorful.

People are saying

"I thought the birria here was delicious and freshly made."

"I found the food here to be really tasty and delicious."

"The Birria Ramen was the best we have had."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on-site for customers.

2

Tacos are priced affordably, making it a budget-friendly option.

3

Reservations are not required, but arriving early helps avoid long lines.

30
Hacienda Casa Blanca Mexican Restaurant & Cantina image 1

Stonework and hanging tin lanterns create an authentic hacienda atmosphere. Spicy Carne Asada a la Diabla and enchiladas with family-style sauce highlight the Mexican food. Live music adds lively energy, making it a friendly, inviting spot.

Spicy Carne Asada a la Diabla comes with rice and beans and pairs well with fresh chips and salsa. The enchilada sauce tastes like an old family recipe, and potato tacos offer a tasty bar snack.

People are saying

"The Mexican Food here is great, and the service is excellent."

"The authentic Mexican brunch food was awesome and plentiful."

"The Carne Asada is so tender, you don't even need a knife."

Good to know

1

The brunch costs $36 per person for all-you-can-eat.

2

Happy hour specials are available, making it a great time to visit.

3

Reservations are recommended for large parties, especially on weekends.

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El Cajon, California

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