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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of San Diego

Mexican food

You know that authentic Mexican cuisine deserves a sophisticated setting. You want the depth of traditional flavors served with an elevated level of care.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
The Waves Taco Club image 1
The Waves Taco Club image 2
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Mexican restaurant

Bright walls showcase hand-painted murals and vibrant artwork that draw attention throughout the space. A self-serve salsa bar offers a variety of sauces and toppings, adding flavor options to meals. The atmosphere combines lively music with a casual, downtown vibe.

Seafood tacos stand out, especially the fish and scallop options. Burritos and chips with guacamole also impress with consistent quality and friendly service.

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be amazing, especially the chipotle shrimp."

"I had the best burrito I ever had here."

"I found the tacos here to be amazing, especially the seafood ones."

Good to know

1

Parking is available around the corner from the restaurant.

2

The restaurant does not have public restrooms for customers.

3

Expect no wait to order on Sunday nights.

02
Taco Time Cantina image 1

Bright colors and beautiful decor create an inviting space with both indoor and outdoor seating, including a cozy patio with heaters and cover. Atmosphere feels authentic and relaxing, suitable for casual dining with fresh air and friendly energy. A standout feature is the fantastic salsa bar offering a range of heat levels.

Tacos here burst with fresh, quality ingredients and avoid seed oils. Standout dishes include the Birria Nachos and the Surf and Turf burrito, both packed with flavor and generous portions.

People are saying

"The salsa bar is fantastic, with so many tasty options."

"The Carne Asada is tender and perfectly seasoned."

"The Mexican food here is bursting with flavor and generously filled."

Good to know

1

Taco Time Cantina offers unique taco options not available anywhere else.

2

The chef makes everything daily from scratch with over 20 years of experience.

3

Expect a 2% credit card surcharge not listed on the menu.

03
Johnny Mañanas Ocean Beach image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers colorful storefront and outdoor seating with views of the pier. Atmosphere shifts from quiet early afternoons to a lively vibe later, enhanced by Mexican music and a self-serve salsa bar. Affordable drinks include $5 margaritas and draft beers, complementing well-regarded tacos and burritos.

Fish tacos stand out with their consistent deliciousness and affordable price. Burritos come in healthful and flavorful varieties, including a notable bean and cheese option. Churros add a phenomenal sweet finish to the meal.

People are saying

"The staff here are super friendly and attentive."

"These fish tacos are super tasty and crispy."

"I loved the self-serve salsa bar with so many flavorful options."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, enjoy $2.50 street tacos and two for $5 specials.

2

Happy hour features $3 pints and $6 margaritas from 2 to 6 PM and all day on weekends.

3

Outdoor seating is available for dogs.

04
Origen image 1
Restaurant

Modern, chic restaurant with minimal lighting and close seating creates a lively, inviting atmosphere. Strong, well-balanced cocktails and fresh Mexican coastal cuisine define the experience. Noise level is high, resembling a noisy cafeteria at times.

Mexican food here takes an upscale approach with a focus on traditional coastal cuisine. Dishes like the mole quesadillitas and smoked tuna flautas stand out for their unique flavors and quality.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, with superb flavors."

"The atmosphere and decor here are really cool."

"You have to try the short rib quesadillas; they're beyond expectations."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to secure a table.

2

Parking is limited and primarily street parking; arrive early.

3

Prices are on the higher side for tapas-style dishes.

05
Flor's Farm to Table image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with open market seating and plenty of outdoor patio space creates a chill, cozy atmosphere. Shared seating in a food hall setting offers a casual vibe with some quieter indoor tables. Energy stays relaxed, making it suitable for quick, quiet meals or casual gatherings.

Grilled snapper taco offers fresh, crispy flavors wrapped in a perfect flour tortilla. Sopes and street tacos deliver authentic, delicious Mexican tastes, while the guava margarita with hibiscus rim complements the meal well.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious, especially the red snapper tacos."

"The vegetarian options, especially the potato taco, are delicious."

"I found Flor's Farm to Table to be an amazing find."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost $5 each, making them an affordable option.

2

The restaurant is located one block off Old Town Avenue.

3

Free public parking is available across the street.

06
Sayulitas Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, clean space with about three tables inside offers a full salsa bar featuring a variety of fresh salsas. Burritos are large enough for two people and come in unique fusion flavors. Atmosphere feels cozy but can be uncomfortable due to limited seating.

Burritos come large and packed with meat, offering good value for the price. The salsa bar stays fresh and well-stocked, featuring creamy green and red salsas that complement dishes like menudo and pozole.

People are saying

"You won't believe how huge these burritos are; they're shareable!"

"The carne asada here is massive and very good."

"The Mexican food here, especially the burritos, is humongous and shareable."

Good to know

1

The regular size burrito costs $14 for a bean and cheese.

2

Hot Cheetos carne asada fries are $17.99, and two chicken taco plates are $18.99.

3

The portion sizes are generous, often enough for two people.

07
Tacos El Villasana image 1
Taco restaurant

Rustic taco spot with a loud, informal atmosphere and a back patio for groups. Music features corridos tumbados played near the cash register, adding to the neighborhood vibe. Known for high-quality ribeye tacos and an authentic feel distinct from fast food joints.

Ribeye tacos with homemade tortillas stand out as a unique offering. The California burrito with charcoal grilled prime ribeye and the aguacate salsa add distinct flavors to the menu.

People are saying

"I found the California burrito to be the best Mexican food in San Diego."

"The ribeye tacos here practically melted in my mouth."

"I love their great beer selection."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times, especially during peak hours.

2

Reservations are not accepted, and ordering ahead is not possible.

3

The restaurant is located in the back of a bar.

08
Contodo Fresh Mexican Eats image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant offers clean interior and spacious patio seating with a pleasant outdoor vibe. Atmosphere stays cool and relaxed with good music and a comfortable setting. It attracts those looking for a casual spot to enjoy fresh, well-regarded tacos and burritos.

Fresh tortillas and carne asada burritos stand out here. The fish tacos and poblano tacos are also notable for their flavor and quality.

People are saying

"The carnitas burrito was excellent and very flavorful."

"The salsas here are flavorful and complement the food well."

"This Mexican food is so tasty, especially the fish tacos."

Good to know

1

$1.99 fish taco special is available, making it a great deal.

2

The taco shop has a drive-thru for convenient ordering.

3

Expect reasonable prices and good portion sizes.

09
Ferchaladas birria & mariscos image 1

Small Mexican restaurant with cozy indoor and outdoor seating featuring colorful murals outside. Atmosphere feels lively and upbeat with good music playing, creating a friendly and festive vibe. The spot attracts people looking for authentic birria and mariscos in a casual, unassuming setting.

Quesabirria tacos and birria stand out as highlights. The ceviche and shrimp tacos also offer fresh, flavorful options. This spot serves some of the best fish tacos and mariscos around.

People are saying

"The shrimp and octopus taco was overflowing with seafood."

"I thought the ceviche here was the best I had in a long time."

"The Mexican Food here, especially the tacos, is overflowing with seafood."

Good to know

1

Ferchaladas birria & mariscos accepts only cash payments.

2

Expect to wait due to the busy atmosphere.

3

It is difficult to find parking.

10
Mike's Red Tacos - Point Loma image 1

Roomy dining areas combine with inside and outside seating to create a clean, modern environment. A self-serve salsa bar offers various options, adding a unique touch to the experience. The atmosphere feels chill and cozy, enhanced by views of a green field and mountains in the background.

Birria tacos stand out as a signature item, known for their rich flavor and tender meat. The Cali burrito also draws attention for its satisfying size and taste, making both staples of the menu.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly top tier."

"The birria here is so flavorful and unforgettable."

"I found all six salsas to be fantastic and tasty."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, a free taco is offered with meal combo orders.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere on Taco Tuesdays with many locals attending.

3

Parking is available nearby, but can fill up quickly during peak hours.

11
Mic Drop Comedy image 1
Comedy club

Small venue with an Alice in Wonderland theme creates an intimate atmosphere where every seat feels close to the action. Professional improv keeps the crowd engaged and the energy fun without crossing lines. Full bar and kitchen offer creative cocktails and distinctive food alongside strong comedy acts.

Queso birria tacos stand out with rich flavor and tender meat. Garlic fried rice complements the tacos well, and the menu includes legit cocktails to pair with the food.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and the staff is friendly."

"The nightlife here is amazing with hilarious comedians."

"The comedy shows here are epic and hilarious."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available on site.

2

Mic Drop Comedy does not require a food or drink minimum.

3

Doors open at 9 PM, but seating may be delayed.

12
Birrieria & Taqueria La Huasteca image 1

Small, cozy Mexican restaurant with a quiet, relaxed atmosphere and a welcoming, family-style vibe. Offers handmade corn tortillas and authentic dishes in a neat, casual setting with both indoor and puppy-friendly outdoor patio seating.

Birria tacos come with generous portions and rich, flavorful consommé. The Cali Burrito stands out for its taste, while menudo and pozole offer a comforting broth with deep seasoning. Horchata pairs well as a refreshing drink option.

People are saying

"I thought the birria tacos were some of the best Mexican food I've ever had."

"The outdoor seating area is super cute and comfortable."

"The menudo broth is rich, comforting, and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult to find near the restaurant.

2

The portions are larger than most places for the price.

3

The restaurant is known for its authentic birria tacos.

13
Valley Farm Market La Jolla image 1

Market combines local butcher shop feel with a full kitchen and organic fresh products. Atmosphere reflects a community vibe with booths offering unique items like hats and healing apothecaries. Offers high-quality meats and specialty produce, attracting those seeking premium food options.

Marinated steak in the shrimp and steak bowls stands out for flavor. The surf & turf burrito serves as a common choice. Tacos vary widely, with some being notably poor and slow to prepare.

People are saying

"This grocery store has a great variety of high-quality meats."

"I found the food here to be delicious and high-quality."

"The tacos and Baja bowl here are excellent."

Good to know

1

The market offers a good selection of organic fruits and vegetables.

2

Expect a variety of specialty produce, dry goods, and high-quality meats.

3

Parking is really, really rough.

14
Food Bowl Market & Deli image 1

Large, modern grocery store with a well-stocked deli and butcher counter offers fresh produce and premade foods. Atmosphere feels friendly and pleasant with courteous workers, though the store is notably cold inside. Serves as a key neighborhood market with quality meats and flavorful deli items.

Tacos come sizable and fresh, with carnitas available only on weekends. Burritos often include free guacamole, and the carne asada options pack serious flavor with all the fixings. Chips and salsa are made in house and stand out for their taste.

People are saying

"You've gotta try the made-to-order Mexican food at this Market."

"The employees at this grocery store are so friendly and personable."

"I found their Cali burrito to be the best Mexican food in San Diego."

Good to know

1

The market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meat, and pantry items.

2

Expect a clean and well-organized shopping environment.

3

The butcher counter provides high-quality meat options, including carne asada.

15
Cocinas Del Monte image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Garden-style seating overlooks a river, creating a spacious outdoor setting with a warm, rustic-modern vibe. Soft jazz music plays, enhancing a relaxed and elegant atmosphere. The place feels well run and comfortable, offering breakfast all day in a clean, beautifully decorated space.

Fish tacos stand out with crispiness, freshness, and balanced sauce. Chilaquiles offer a tasty, authentic touch, while burritos and quesadillas deliver strong, flavorful Mexican dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"I found the salmon salad to be delicious and bursting with flavor."

"The Mexican food, especially the tacos, was delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and available nearby.

2

The restaurant serves breakfast all day.

3

Happy hour starts at 2 PM with special pricing.

16
Blanco Cocina + Cantina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with an open floor plan and large windows creates a bright, airy feel. Outdoor patio seating with heaters offers a comfortable spot even in cooler weather. The vibe suits a younger crowd, blending stylish decor with a lively atmosphere.

Fresh chips and salsa with just the right spice set the tone. The Crunchy Sweet Potato Taco stands out, along with a hefty chimichanga filled with tender short rib machaca and balanced green and red sauces. Creamy guacamole and a killer skinny margarita round out the meal.

People are saying

"Chloe was an absolute superstar serving our Mexican food."

"I ordered the fish tacos and found they had plenty of fish."

"I ate every bite of the flan and would order it again."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2-4pm on weekdays and all day on Tuesdays.

2

The bar area offers a special happy hour menu with great options.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

17
Yesenia's Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a self-serve salsa bar with house-made salsas in various colors and spice levels. Atmosphere feels quiet and family-oriented with casual interiors and friendly service. Regulars enjoy flavorful meats and breakfast burritos praised for consistency and taste.

The California burrito stands out as a life-changing dish with consistently fresh ingredients. Breakfast burritos and carne asada fries also deliver strong flavors and a good balance of vegetables.

People are saying

"The carne asada burrito is massive and packed with flavor."

"The salsa bar here is fantastic with a great variety."

"This Mexican food is insanely delicious, especially the burritos."

Good to know

1

Prices for meals are generally reasonable, with burritos costing around $12 each.

2

The restaurant offers a salsa bar with a good variety of salsas.

3

Portion sizes are generous, providing good value for the price.

18
Roma Norte Event Space image 1

Elegant cocktail lounge with dim lighting and sleek décor creates a vibrant atmosphere ideal for socializing or romantic evenings. Craft-focused cocktails stand out for their unique flavors and expert preparation. Noise levels can rise sharply, adding intensity to the lively vibe.

Tortas come in a burger-sized portion and taste delicious but cost a bit more. Tacos appear on the menu on Tuesdays and look really good.

People are saying

"The cocktails are creative and perfectly balanced."

"It's perfect for a romantic evening or a great date night."

"The Mexican food here has creative, well-balanced cocktails and amazing service."

Good to know

1

The bar is open until 2am on weekends.

2

Expect small portion sizes with higher prices.

3

The venue primarily serves cocktails and small bar snacks.

19
Todo Pa' La Cruda image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, intimate Mexican restaurant with colorful festive decor and a vibrant Día de los Muertos atmosphere. The place feels homelike and welcoming, often packed with a lively crowd. Known for authentic micheladas and standout traditional dishes like pozole and birria.

Birria tacos stand out with a well-served, not greasy presentation. The pozole offers a rich, amazing flavor. Fresh Tostadas de Cameron y pulpo balance lime, spice, and seafood perfectly.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so authentic and delicious."

"The birria tacos were well served and not greasy."

"The seafood tostadas were super fresh and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky at times, so arrive early.

2

Expect a wait time of about 45 minutes during peak hours.

3

Taco Tuesday offers three tacos for $9, a good deal.

20
Mike's Taco Club image 1
Mexican restaurant

Rustic, hip Mexican restaurant with tiny indoor seating and pet-friendly outdoor patio offering a beach view. Atmosphere is laidback and authentic with lively music that can make conversation challenging. Popular for its highly regarded burritos and tacos.

Burritos stand out here, especially the Steak & Shrimp Cali Burrito and Carne Asada burrito, both highly praised. The carne asada fries also draw repeat visits and are a popular choice.

People are saying

"This California burrito is massive and packed with grilled carne asada."

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

"I thought the carne asada fries and California burritos were top notch."

Good to know

1

They close at 10 pm.

2

On weekdays, there is no wait to be seated.

3

Parking can be hard to find, but street parking is available nearby.

21
Northgate González Market image 1
Mexican grocery store

Mexican grocery store combines airy layout with a restaurant-style area and employee-manned sample carts. Atmosphere stays vibrant and welcoming with music at a balanced volume. Fresh tortillas, salsas, and meats stand out alongside a full selection of produce and prepared foods.

Fresh tortillas made on-site stand out along with custom-made carne asada burritos and daily-made tortilla chips. The tamales station offers excellent service and delicious, fresh tamales and champurrado.

People are saying

"I loved the market's fresh salsas and ceviche."

"It's a great Mexican grocery store with lots of authentic products."

"You have to try the fresh, warm tortillas with the Mexican food here."

Good to know

1

The market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, and Mexican groceries.

2

Daily specials provide great deals on selected items throughout the week.

3

The hot food section features a large selection of ready-to-eat meals.

22
Sawaya Brothers image 1
Grocery store

Store offers freshly made tortillas and homemade birria with strong local reputation. Atmosphere shows lack of cleanliness and outdated maintenance, with some products expired. Prices vary from reasonable for tortillas to high for other items.

Tortillas and masa stand out as very good and delicious, with some calling them the best in the area. The Oaxacan tamales and guacamole and salsa also receive strong mentions. Burritos vary, with some not matching traditional flavors.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here has the best tortillas in San Diego."

"I found the tortillas here to be the best in San Diego."

"I found the fruit, vegetables, and meat at this grocery store to be great."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times, especially during peak hours with over 20 people in line.

2

Prices for tortillas and produce are generally good compared to other local stores.

3

Cleanliness could be improved, as there are concerns about mold on tortillas.

23
JV's Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Colorful interior with bright decorations and big screens showing sports creates a lively yet laid-back vibe. The space feels authentic and welcoming, offering plenty of seating without any pretension. Regulars enjoy huge, flavorful burritos and house-made salsa in a clean, casual setting.

Offers a large variety of Mexican dishes with authentic flavors and generous portions. Burritos, especially the Carnitas and breakfast burritos, stand out for their quality and size.

People are saying

"I ordered a burrito that was pretty big, about the size of my forearm."

"I thought the authentic Mexican food here was the best I've ever tasted."

"You won't believe how big the burritos are at this Mexican Food place."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers 3 tacos and a drink for $6.

2

Expect large portions, often enough for two or three meals.

3

Credit cards accepted, but there's a $0.30 fee for using them.

24
La Palapa Authentic Mexican Food image 1

Small space with counter dining and stacked chairs creates a simple setting. Atmosphere feels cold and outdated, lacking warmth or charm. Offers authentic Baja-style Mexican food with generous portions and fresh tortillas at reasonable prices.

Authentic Mexican flavors shine in the tacos and burritos, especially the carne asada and breakfast varieties. The menu features generous portions like the Monster Breakfast Burrito and tasty options such as carne asada fries and quesadillas.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and cooked just right."

"I thought the California burrito was the best I ever had."

"You have to try the burritos; they're some of the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays offer 5 mini tacos for $10.

2

Parking is available in the strip mall lot, but can fill up quickly.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred for smaller orders.

25
Vega Restaurant Mexican & Seafood image 1

Mexican restaurant with Padres-themed decor and a baseball vibe featuring high ceilings and lots of TVs. Atmosphere feels positive and relaxing, making it a common spot to share drinks or eat before games. Menu offers a mix of deli and Mexican dishes with reasonable prices near the ballpark.

Tortas and burritos stand out with huge portions and great flavor, especially the carne asada and carnitas varieties. Tacos come loaded and tasty, while dishes like chicken quesadillas and chilaquiles offer generous fillings and homemade salsas.

People are saying

"I loved the huge and great-tasting burritos here."

"I loved the breakfast, especially the chilaquiles with homemade salsas."

"I had one of the best California burritos here."

Good to know

1

They opened early, making it perfect for a pregame snack.

2

Their prices were better than inside the ballpark.

3

The location is great, right near Petco Park, with plenty of seating inside and outside.

26
Agave Taco Shop image 1
Taco restaurant

Small dining room with homemade tortillas and excellent street tacos creates a simple, casual vibe. Food features best-in-area carne asada and flavorful birria tacos, often served sizzling with spicy salsa. Patio and indoor seating offer alternatives to the quick-access drive-thru.

Breakfast burritos come super big with homemade tortillas and a mix of ham and bacon. The menu features carnitas, carne asada, birria, and fish tacos with spicy salsas and fresh ingredients.

People are saying

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

"I thought the tacos here were the best I've ever had."

"The salsa had a good level of spice."

Good to know

1

Drive-thru service is available and quick to use.

2

There are no public restrooms for customers.

3

Prices are considered high for the quality of food.

27
Casa de Maria Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Charming patio dining offers a quiet, pleasant atmosphere with live music featuring flutes and saxophone enhancing the experience. Outdoor seating creates a cozy, open-air vibe where guests enjoy delicious tacos and margaritas.

Sizzling fajitas arrive on a hot plate with fresh corn tortillas. The grilled Mahi Mahi tacos are filling and flavorful, paired well with chips and salsa served right away.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the carne asada."

"I enjoyed the live music while I ate and drank."

"Joel's service made our Mexican food experience amazing."

Good to know

1

Expect high prices; a meal can cost around $160 for five tacos and four cocktails.

2

There is a 4% surcharge for additional charges on the bill.

3

Live music occurs on Friday evenings and Saturday and Sunday.

28
Cocina 35 Brunch image 1

Super fancy dining room with Instagramable decor and a beautiful tree inside creates a vibrant, lively atmosphere filled with loud music and festive noise. Popular spot draws energetic crowds who enjoy unique Mexican pastries and a full bar featuring standout cocktails. Tables have a strict 90-minute limit, emphasizing a fast-paced, social vibe.

Chilaquiles stand out with an extensive menu and a build-your-own option. The Al Pastor and Rancheros versions deliver strong, delicious flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and bursting with authentic flavor."

"Jesi made my brunch experience so worthwhile and attentive."

"The chilaquiles here are so good, with a great variety."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect to wait 1 to 2 hours for a table on weekends without a reservation.

3

The atmosphere can be loud due to frequent birthday celebrations.

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