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New Yorkers 1st Choice
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Mexican food and seafood in National City

Authentic Mexican seafood that respects the tradition of the coast without turning into a tourist trap.

Based on 715 Opinions
+712
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Updated May 2026
01
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Seafood restaurant occupies a renovated dive bar with a quiet, chill atmosphere and small, comfortable vibe. It serves fresh, delicious tacos and ceviche with affordable prices and generous portions. The space feels clean and welcoming, focusing on simple, tasty dishes without alcohol service yet.

Tacos stand out with fresh fish and shrimp options that taste vibrant and satisfying. The tostada ceviche verde and spicy shrimp taco add variety and bold flavors to the menu.

Seafood here features excellent quality and perfect cooking. The fish tacos stand out as a go-to item, alongside shrimp cocktails and ceviche options.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

"The fish tacos here are perfectly fried and seasoned."

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

Good to know

1

Fish tacos cost $2 on Taco Tuesday.

2

Parking is available in the back of the restaurant.

3

The facility is very clean and well-maintained.

02
Mi Pastor Town image 1
Mexican restaurant

Kitchen inside a liquor store offers small indoor seating with a cozy, lively atmosphere filled with the aroma of cooked food. The space feels like a hidden gem with authentic Mexican flavors and a unique setting that transports diners to Mexico.

Tacos feature juicy, flavorful meat with simple but outstanding toppings. Unique green and pink al pastor creations stand out alongside perfectly seasoned carne asada and large, tasty burritos like the Cowboy and Ironman.

Fish tacos stand out with fresh flavors. The Surf & Turf Fries come loaded with more shrimp than usual, adding a solid seafood punch.

People are saying

"The Mexican food, especially the tacos, is authentic and delicious."

"I thought the California burrito was delicious and packed with meat."

"The fish tacos here are so good."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited at this location, requiring a short walk.

2

The place is located inside a mart and is not really a sit-down dining area.

3

The tacos contain nuts, so customers should be cautious if they have nut allergies.

03
Mariscos La Capital (Mexican Seafood Restaurant) image 1

Small space with only a few tables creates an intimate setting. Atmosphere feels dark and lively, resembling a nightclub more than a family spot. Fresh seafood, spicy aguachiles, and great margaritas draw a crowd looking for authentic Mexican seafood flavors.

Tacos dorados stand out as extremely delicious and a highlight of the menu. Fresh seafood options like shrimp tacos, tostada mixta, and ceviche offer flavorful, well-prepared Mexican dishes.

Seafood here is consistently fresh and high quality, with dishes prepared very well. Highlights include shrimp tacos dorados, oysters topped with ceviche, and a shrimp cocktail rated 8 out of 10.

People are saying

"The fish tacos and ceviche here are so fresh and flavorful."

"I thought the seafood here was the best I ever had."

"I found parking available right out front."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the street, and it's usually easy to find.

2

The restaurant closes at 8 pm on Saturdays.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is recommended for street vendors nearby.

04
Guanatos Mexican and Seafood image 1

Small Mexican restaurant with cozy indoor seating and outdoor tables offers a warm, family-owned atmosphere. The place draws a crowd for its authentic seafood dishes and notable fish tacos. Energy stays relaxed and friendly, making it a hidden gem for local flavors.

Fish tacos stand out with their crispy fried and grilled options, paired well with horchata or lemonade. The menu also features shrimp quesadillas, burrito de adobada, menudo, and guacamole with notably good chips.

Super fresh seafood shines with great flavor and authentic Mexican preparation. Fried fish tacos and shrimp roaches stand out as delicious and well priced options.

People are saying

"I thought the seafood here was excellent and well prepared."

"The chips for the Mexican food are the best I have ever had."

"I found the Mexican seafood cuisine here to be delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult near the restaurant.

2

The restaurant is very small with about five tables.

3

Prices are moderate, around $12 for a beef burrito and $20 for spicy shrimp.

05
Chร o XO Kitchen image 1
Asian restaurant

Small, elegant Asian restaurant with modern design and Asian-influenced art creates a warm, family-friendly atmosphere filled with plants and vibrant decor. The space feels inviting and comfortable, suitable for casual dinners or celebrations. An open bar adds to the relaxed vibe.

Birria shines with rich flavor and a blend of three peppers, cinnamon, tomatoes, onions, and garlic. The birria pho stands out as a phenomenal fusion dish combining Mexican and Asian influences.

Shrimp in the pasta comes large, juicy, and well-cooked with linguine that's al dente in a rich, flavorful sauce. Garlic shrimp noodles and fries add extra seafood variety.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and yummy."

"I thought the birria pho was the best I ever had."

"The Kare Curry's pork belly was amazing, though some found it too big."

Good to know

1

The restaurant's grand opening is on March 21, 2024.

2

A special menu is available for Restaurant Week.

3

Parking is available in a shared lot, but can be limited.

06
LA MALCRIADA BIRRIERIA image 1

Small, quaint restaurant with spacious indoor seating and a patio deck offers a family-friendly atmosphere with good music playing. The vibe is welcoming and casual, suited for relaxed outings. Outdoor seating includes photo spots like a big red chair, adding charm to the environment.

Birria tacos stand out with rich flavor and less fat saturation than typical spots. The menu features birria ramen and queso birria, alongside a highly praised salsa and tortillas.

Fish tacos come with deep-fried batter and a mayonnaise sauce that covers most of the flavor. Shrimp portions are small and pico de gallo lacks taste, making the seafood options hit or miss.

People are saying

"This Mexican food tastes just like Tijuana, not Tex-Mex."

"The fish tacos here are really good and fresh."

"The ramen birria was surprisingly delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday specials offer regular Birria tacos for $2.50 all day.

2

Parking is easy and accessible near the restaurant.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of birria options.

07
Kimball Bar & Eatery image 1

Oceanfront dining offers a relaxed charm with mesmerizing decor and a lively atmosphere. Evenings often feature live music that energizes the space while guests enjoy a warm fire pit on the patio. The setting balances family-friendly vibes with a vibrant nightlife feel.

Fajitas come with a unique twist and bold flavors that stand out. Quesadillas taste like authentic Mexico City street food, paired with incredible morita salsa that adds a flavorful kick.

Grilled fish tacos stand out as a delicious option here. The seafood leans traditional and pairs well with other dishes like the fried fish tacos and sweet potato fries.

People are saying

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

"I found the vegetarian burger out of this world."

"You have to try the fish tacos; they're delicious."

Good to know

1

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

2

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos and drinks.

3

Live music events happen every Saturday night, attracting large crowds.

08
Mariscos El Tiburon image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant features a lively atmosphere with a DJ who sings and plays a wide variety of songs. It attracts families and stays open late on weekends. Micheladas stand out as a popular drink, while shrimp dishes and ceviche are common food choices.

Authentic Mexican food includes Menudo, a traditional soup with tripe and broth. The menudo meat caused food poisoning during one visit.

Shrimp dishes stand out with options like shrimp ala cucaracha and shrimp cocktails. The ceviche tostada adds a fresh, tangy seafood choice.

People are saying

"The seafood here is great for karaoke nights with a friendly DJ."

"The DJ sings amazingly and is very attentive."

"You have to check out the karaoke nights here; they're the best!"

Good to know

1

Karaoke nights happen every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

2

DJ Juan Roman hosts karaoke sessions on weekends.

3

The venue stays open until 2 am on weekends.

09
Market on 8th image 1
Food court

Food court with large tables and a bar area featuring TVs for sports creates a social setting. Atmosphere ranges from cozy and calm to lively with live music and games, suitable for families and groups. Outdoor seating includes fire pits and options for sun or shade, enhancing comfort.

Rockefeller and octopus tacos stand out as notable options. The menu includes birria quesadillas, carne asada tacos, beef burritos, and Sinaloa-style tacos. Tacos may take some time to arrive. Snacks like tostilocos are also available.

Seafood taco stands out as a notable dish, often missed and considered a highlight. Sushi and seafood spots offer delicious options, though some shrimp may lack freshness and proper preparation.

People are saying

"The Market has tons of delicious food options, like fresh sushi and juicy burgers."

"I found my favorite Mexican spot here."

"The seafood here is delicious and super good."

Good to know

1

Parking is very limited at Market on 8th.

2

The cafe closes after 5 PM, limiting dessert options.

3

There are various food vendors offering Mexican, Asian, and more.

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National City, California

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