Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Lemon Grove's best

Mexican food spots

You are looking for a reliable spot to sit down and eat authentic Mexican food.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
CALI MEX COCINA & CATERING image 1
CALI MEX COCINA & CATERING image 2
CALI MEX COCINA & CATERING image 3
View all

Outdoor seating defines the space with a clean, inviting setup. Energy feels fresh and lively, drawing many soon after opening. Food stands out for fresh homemade tortillas, large portions, and distinctive house-made salsas.

Food comes fresh with great quality and generous portions. Every bite tastes delicious, backed by attentive service and unique recipes from a passionate cook.

Tacos come with homemade corn tortillas that are flavorful and fresh. The beef birria is tender and juicy with large pieces in each taco. Salsas are made in house, each with a distinct taste and mild heat. The quesadillas are rich and satisfying, while the shrimp burrito stands out as well.

People are saying

"The carne asada fries here are perfectly charred and flavorful."

"The fruit salad was loaded with a huge variety of fresh fruit."

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

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers only covered outside seating.

2

Three huge tacos with guacamole cost $12.

3

They accept credit cards.

02
The Godfather's Diner image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy diner blends classic American style with Mexican food fusion in a clean, intimate space. Warm atmosphere features colorful decor and lively music, with enticing aromas of fresh tortillas and breakfast dishes. Seating includes comfortable booths and counter spots, creating a quiet, family-friendly vibe.

Food tastes homemade and full of flavor with a fresh quality, often prepared right in front of you. Prices stay reasonable while offering a variety that feels like a taste from home.

Freshly cooked dishes like chilaquiles rojos and verde, chicken enchiladas, and carne asada fries showcase authentic flavors. The tacos come with perfect seasoning and salsa that has the right kick, all served in a warm, colorful setting with the aroma of fresh tortillas.

People are saying

"This diner's chorizo burrito is packed with flavor and generously sized."

"The food here is delicious and tastes homemade."

"The Mexican Food here is served by super friendly and attentive staff."

Good to know

1

The diner opens at 8:30 am, not 8 am as posted online.

2

Expect the diner to get packed quickly, so arrive early.

3

Side dishes cost extra when ordering a sandwich.

03
Herrera's Mexican & Sea Food image 1

Small taco shop with worn booths and a low-key, clean interior offers a friendly atmosphere. Known for authentic Mexican cuisine with generous portions and low prices. Menudo and pozole are available every day, setting it apart from typical Mexican restaurants.

Mexican food comes made from scratch with fresh ingredients and generous portions. Service is friendly and prompt, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Fresh, made-from-scratch Mexican food stands out here with California burritos featuring grilled potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and cheese instead of fries. The carne asada burrito and rolled tacos are consistently high quality and popular choices.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is made from scratch and truly fantastic."

"I loved the carne asada tacos and rolled tacos."

"You have to try their California burrito; it's so good."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of about 7 minutes for food during off-peak hours.

2

The restaurant has a $.50 fee for card payments, so bring cash if possible.

3

Portions are generous, making it a good value for the price.

04
Birriería La Lotería image 1

Food truck setup with outdoor picnic tables and umbrellas creates a casual dining spot in a parking lot. Atmosphere feels relaxed with moderate crowd levels and some wait times. Known for exceptional birria dishes and generous meat portions, it draws those seeking authentic flavors.

Food stands out for its consistent quality and amazing flavor. Portions offer good value, and the overall experience includes reliable customer service.

Birria stands out with its exceptional seasoning and delicious tortillas. The tacos and tortas deliver authentic, flavorful birria from a family-owned kitchen.

People are saying

"I found the birria delicious; it's the best I've ever had."

"I loved the ramen with so much meat and great consomé."

"The food here is amazing and definitely worth it."

Good to know

1

Birriería La Lotería often sells out by 10pm on weekends.

2

The food truck charges $5 per taco, offering good portion sizes.

3

Reservations are not accepted; expect to wait during peak hours.

05
Pure Fruit Bar & Deli image 1

Family-owned restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with a vibrant display of fresh fruits and a clean, welcoming environment. Menu features made-to-order dishes with fresh, clean ingredients and a variety of flavorful options like acai bowls and tortas. The place attracts those seeking quality, fresh food in a friendly setting.

Food comes fresh and generous in portion sizes. The owner crafts each dish with love and respect, ensuring smoothies and meals consistently satisfy.

Tortas stand out with rich flavors like the milanesa and turkey options. The chipotle mayo adds a unique kick, and the pambazo torta pairs well with green juice.

People are saying

"The smoothies here are amazing, and the owners are so kind."

"You have to try their tortas; the pambazo is a perfect 10/10."

"I found the food here to be fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Everything is made to order, ensuring fresh food.

2

The place is kept clean and well-maintained.

3

There is plenty of parking available nearby.

06
El Pollo Grill - Lemon Grove image 1

Mexican restaurant with large indoor and outdoor seating and an open dining room layout. Atmosphere feels casual and lively, enhanced by sports TVs and a modern drink machine offering customizable flavors. Known for tasty grilled chicken and an awesome salsa bar, it draws crowds despite a simple, truck stop-like exterior.

Mexican food here is consistently flavorful and fresh with a homestyle ambiance that feels like dining in a kitchen. The dishes are delicious and satisfying, often chosen for family gatherings.

Every dish bursts with bold flavors, like tender carne asada in the California burrito and fresh fish tacos. Sauces stand out, especially the green sauce with a bright, spicy kick and the milder red sauce that pairs well with the pollo quesadilla.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food burritos here to be huge and delicious."

"The tortillas here are warm, soft, and taste homemade."

"The food here is so tasty and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Kids eat free on Wednesdays.

2

El Pollo Grill no longer accepts cash payments.

3

On busy weekend days, expect a 30-45 minute wait.

07
Antojitos Tenampa image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant offers authentic handmade tortillas and flavorful salsas with noticeable heat. Atmosphere stays quiet and pleasant, ideal for focused eating. Menu features birria tacos and menudo as standout dishes, attracting those seeking genuine Mexican flavors.

Food here is authentic Mexican with large portions and high quality ingredients. Salsas complement the dishes well, making the meals both delicious and satisfying.

Tacos come with handmade tortillas and high-quality meat, paired with good salsas. Birria tacos and fries stand out, along with a handmade quesadilla with chicharron and menudo as specialties.

People are saying

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

"You have to try their handmade quesadilla de chicharron."

"I found the food here to be delicious and divine."

Good to know

1

They offer a free beverage with each birria order.

2

The Cuban sandwich costs $21.00.

3

Most items are handmade, and I could taste the difference.

08
Lemon Grove Cafe image 1

Old school diner with Route 66 themed booths and a large covered patio creates a nostalgic, down-home vibe. 80s hits play softly, setting a mellow, family-friendly atmosphere. Busy spot known for traditional American breakfast and a varied menu.

Food comes out hot and well prepared with great portions at a chill neighborhood spot. Dishes are tasty, well seasoned, and fresh, served quickly and at a good price.

Fish tacos stand out with fresh ingredients. Burritos, especially the Chorizo and breakfast versions, combine fresh and delicious components. Chilaquiles with carne asada offer a spicy kick, particularly with green salsa.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and the portions are generous."

"The food and service at this cafe were fantastic."

"I thought the chilaquiles verde were the best I had ever had."

Good to know

1

The cafe is small, so expect to wait for a table during peak hours.

2

There is ample parking available right next to the cafe.

3

The menu features a variety of Greek, Mexican, and American dishes.

09
Carnitas Uruapan Mexican Food #1 lemon grove image 1

Small Mexican restaurant with a classic joint feel and drive-thru service. Atmosphere is nice and perfect, often busy at lunchtime with full tables. Known for authentic carnitas and reasonable prices offering great value.

Carnitas stand out as a delicious highlight with fresh and flavorful ingredients. The food consistently offers excellent Mexican dishes that serve as a great alternative to cooking dinner.

Carnitas here are flavorful and tender, often considered the highlight. Massive tacos and burritos like the Urupan and carne asada options come with generous portions and satisfying sides like rice and beans.

People are saying

"I found the food to be fresh and flavorful."

"I found the carnitas to be really good and super tasty."

"I thought the Mexican food carnitas were really solid."

Good to know

1

The prices at Carnitas Uruapan Mexican Food #1 Lemon Grove are lower than most other places.

2

Parking is limited, with only two spots across from the post office.

3

The drive-thru can have a 45-minute wait during peak hours.

10
El Cata Mariscos Sushi & Cortes image 1

Seafood restaurant with live music and a full bar featuring TVs for games creates a lively and inviting atmosphere. Spacious interior includes indoor and patio seating with a clean, modern bar area. The vibe is family oriented and vibrant, blending fun and relaxation.

Food stands out for its great quality and quantity with a focus on Mexican dishes. Meals come at an affordable price and pair well with drinks, all served with attentive service.

Succulent fish and shrimp tacos stand out, especially on Taco Tuesday. Fresh tortilla chips come with awesome salsa, and the menu includes mariscos, burritos, and micheladas that are very good.

People are saying

"I thought the food was terrific, especially the ceviche."

"I found the seafood tacos to be succulent and juicy."

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is so juicy and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2-6 PM Monday through Friday and during Padres' games.

2

Enjoy 2-for-1 16 oz beers during happy hour, including IPAs.

3

Live music is available on weekends, enhancing the atmosphere.

11
Nando's Taco Shop image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a warm family atmosphere with a cozy, laid-back vibe that feels like home. Covered picnic tables and a convenient drive-thru add to the relaxed experience. The place is known for authentic, well-regarded burritos and tacos.

Food offers authentic Mexican flavors with consistently amazing quality. Aguas frescas complement the dishes well, making the menu both delicious and reliable.

Breakfast burritos come large and under $10, filled with sausage, bacon, potatoes, and lite beans. Tacos like carne asada and al pastor feature juicy, perfectly seasoned meat, while the California burrito shines with tasty green salsa. Rolled tacos and shrimp quesadillas stand out as well.

People are saying

"I thought the rolled tacos here were the best Mexican food I'd ever had."

"The carne asada fries were fresh, juicy, and packed with flavor."

"The food here is authentic, flavorful, and made with love."

Good to know

1

The taco shop has a drive-thru for convenience.

2

Nando's Taco Shop is family owned and has been in business for over 20 years.

3

The portions are large and the prices are fair.

12
Cotijas Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a lively atmosphere with outdoor patio seating and nice music. It draws a crowd looking for affordable, flavorful burritos and well-prepared rolled tacos. Cash-only policy and limited seating shape the experience.

Food here is consistently hot and delicious, with a focus on authentic Mexican flavors. Prices stay reasonable, offering generous portions like Carne Asada Burritos and refreshing horchata.

Rolled tacos come out perfectly prepared and stand out as a longtime favorite. Burritos like carne asada and surf and turf offer hearty, flavorful options. The salsa roja and horchata add authentic touches to the menu.

People are saying

"The food here is consistently great and always hot."

"The carne asada here is tender and well-seasoned."

"I considered their rolled tacos my favorite of all time."

Good to know

1

There is easy parking available in the lot next door.

2

They only accept cash or card payments, with a fee for card use.

3

There isn't a lot of seating available, so plan accordingly.

13
El Pollo Loco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers table-served salsas and fresh, vibrant salads alongside grilled chicken dishes. Atmosphere stays quiet and inviting, allowing peaceful dining. Menu suits diverse tastes with healthy, quick-to-prepare meals for families and individuals.

Food arrives fresh and hot, with meat falling off the bones and salsas served at the table. Tortillas and sides taste very fresh, making meals feel authentic and healthy.

Food arrives with fresh salsas served at the table, a unique touch here. Signature grilled chicken pairs well with vibrant salads like double chicken and chicken & shrimp tostada, all tasting notably fresh.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh, especially the salsas."

"This Mexican food is so fresh, juicy, and flavorful."

"I loved the double chicken and chicken & shrimp tostada salads."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and well-kept environment.

2

Expect quick service with food often ready by the time you reach the window.

3

They offer family dinner deals that can save you money for larger groups.

14
Rosarito's Mexican Food #7 image 1
Mexican restaurant

White-washed decor sets a simple scene with friendly atmosphere and plenty of seating. Food offerings include large portions and unique beef broth, with a focus on fast Mexican dishes. Prices remain budget-friendly compared to other local options.

Carne asada fries stand out as a signature dish served in large portions with great prices. The food arrives promptly, tastes excellent, and includes consistently good hot sauce.

Carne asada fries and nachos stand out with rich flavors and generous portions. The salsa Verde and hot sauce add a zesty kick that complements burritos and tacos well. Menudo and beef broth come in hearty servings, and the fish burrito is notably flavorful across regions.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great tasting and delicious."

"I found the rolled tacos to be amazing."

"I found the carne asada fries and nachos to be the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers large portions, typically 2-3 pounds of food per plate.

2

Prices are generally budget-friendly, with meals costing around $15.

3

The restaurant is open until 11 pm, except on Sundays.

15
Lemon Grove Plaza image 1
Shopping mall

Shopping mall combines casual friendly atmosphere with extreme heat inside. It draws large crowds causing traffic congestion near popular burger and coffee spots. Variety of stores and eateries offer well-priced burgers alongside other options.

Food comes out hot and fresh with a variety of good options including fast food. The quality stays consistently delicious and satisfying.

A Del Taco outlet offers quick Mexican food options. It sits among other fast food spots like In-N-Out and McDonald's.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were the best."

"I thought the food here was great."

"I loved the Mexican food here; my granddaughter wanted her birthday dinner."

Good to know

1

Parking is often chaotic, especially near In-N-Out Burger during peak hours.

2

Expect long drive-thru lines at In-N-Out, which can cause street congestion.

3

There is limited accessible parking available around the area.

Discover more

Lemon Grove, California

Area guide
Loading Map...