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Top picks in San Diego

Mexican food

You have a high bar for Mexican food and expect it to be met every time you sit down to eat.

Based on 739 Opinions
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01
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Bright walls with hand-painted murals create a lively vibe. Seafood tacos, especially fish and scallops, shine on the menu. Friendly service and a self-serve salsa bar add to the casual, downtown feel.

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 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
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Small Mexican spot shines with handmade tortillas and a lively salsa bar. Tacos offer authentic flavors like fish and carne asada, while burritos impress. Warm, family-run vibe with piñatas and mellow lighting makes it feel like home.

Tacos stand out with authentic flavors and delicious fish and carne asada options. Burritos also feature prominently, with great service enhancing the experience.

People are saying

"The tacos here are delicious and brimming with meat and toppings."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers tacos for $2.99 each.

2

They have dedicated gluten-free fryers to avoid cross-contamination.

3

Parking can be challenging near the restaurant.

03
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Enjoy authentic birria with bold Tijuana flavors in a family-friendly atmosphere. Generous portions of dishes like birria tacos and chicharrón prensado come at reasonable prices. Clean, welcoming space makes it perfect for casual dining.

Birria stands out with perfect seasoning and fresh ingredients. Dishes like birria tacos, birria pizza, and chicharron prensado come in generous portions and pack strong Mexican flavors.

People are saying

"I kept coming back for the birria tacos and menudo."

Good to know

1

Parking is available and convenient for visitors.

2

The menu features a variety of authentic Mexican dishes.

3

Prices are reasonable for the portion sizes offered.

04
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Roomy dining areas with inside and outside seating create a cozy, modern vibe. Birria tacos offer rich flavor while the Cali burrito satisfies with its size. A self-serve salsa bar adds a unique touch against a backdrop of green fields and mountains.

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 birria here is so flavorful and unforgettable."

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.

05
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Small Mexican spot shines with fresh tortillas and carne asada burritos. Spacious patio offers a pleasant outdoor vibe and cool, relaxed atmosphere. Good music adds to the comfortable setting for casual dining.

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

"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.

06
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Outdoor patio offers dog-friendly seating and chill vibes with good music. Birria Tacos shine with rich, flavorful meat and unique orange salsa. Vegan tacos and quesadillas provide tasty variety alongside traditional dishes. Easy parking near a brewery adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

Birria Tacos stand out with rich, flavorful meat and a unique orange salsa. Vegetarian options like vegan tacos and quesadillas offer tasty variety alongside excellent enchiladas and tamales.

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be very delicious."

Good to know

1

The brewery is located at Mujeres Brewery on 1983 Julian Ave.

2

Miguelito’s Catering Service & Antojitos Mexicanos offers a variety of vegan options.

3

There are lots of vegetarian options available.

07
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Halal birria tacos offer authentic flavor with a rich consome. Outdoor picnic-style seating creates a friendly vibe that changes daily. Prices stay fair for generous portions, making it a lively spot for halal Mexican food lovers.

Halal Birria Tacos stand out with authentic flavor and come with a rich, flavorful consome. The tacos consistently deliver excellent taste and are a rare halal option in the area.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Wet Tacos is 100% halal, offering a rare beef Birria option in San Diego.

2

The price is fair for 100% zabiha halal meat and generous portions.

3

Parking is limited to street parking, and it can get busy at times.

08
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Taco spot shines with handmade tortillas and fresh meats like carne asada and shrimp. Neon lights and Spanish tunes create a lively vibe. Unique blend of Mexican and Haitian flavors offers a fast food twist with generous portions.

Tacos come with handmade tortillas and feature meats like carne asada, shrimp, and lengua that taste fresh and high quality. The birria and fish tacos stand out for their rich flavor and authenticity.

People are saying

"The tacos here are authentic, fresh, and insanely good."

Good to know

1

Parking is tough, so arrive early to find a spot.

2

Prices are surprisingly good for the large portions offered.

3

The food portions are very large, perfect for sharing.

09
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Small space with heated outdoor seating offers a vibrant, welcoming vibe. Carne Asada quesadilla and surf and turf burrito shine with rich Mexican flavors. Upbeat music and friendly staff create a chill atmosphere despite urban surroundings.

Carne Asada quesadilla and surf and turf burrito with grilled beef and shrimp stand out. Burritos like the California and shrimp versions offer rich flavors. The Queso taco also delivers a notable taste.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

Parking is limited in the downtown area, so arrive early.

2

Expect long wait times during peak lunch hours.

3

The restaurant does not have a restroom available for customers.

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Small Mexican spot shines with authentic birria and fresh mariscos like ceviche and shrimp tacos. Cozy indoor and outdoor seating features colorful murals that add charm. Lively vibe with good music makes it a festive, casual hangout.

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 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.

11
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Bright colors and a cozy patio create an inviting space with authentic atmosphere. Tacos shine with fresh ingredients and dishes like Birria Nachos pack bold flavor. Fantastic salsa bar offers heat levels for every taste, making it perfect for casual Mexican dining.

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 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.

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Mexican restaurant offers birria tacos with rich, authentic flavors and white tortillas. Family atmosphere creates a warm, welcoming vibe like visiting relatives. Space is casual but lively, making it perfect for community gatherings.

Birria tacos stand out with rich, authentic flavors and white tortillas that resemble those from Mexico. The birria bowls offer a delicious, hearty option with excellent food and attentive service.

People are saying

"I found the birria here to be unreal."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited at La Central Birria and it can get busy.

2

They turned away more than 10 people while I was there.

3

They were out of birria at 1:15 and 1:30 PM, even though they closed at 2 PM.

13
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Food truck serves lightly breaded seafood tacos with fresh grilled fish and shrimp options. Outdoor seating offers a simple vibe and complimentary soup while you wait. Plenty of condiments let you customize flavors, and free parking makes visits easy.

Fish tacos stand out with light breading and fresh grilled seafood. Shrimp quesadillas and tostadas also get strong mentions. Plenty of condiments like onions and limes let you season tacos your way.

People are saying

"I had the best fish tacos I ever ate."

Good to know

1

The Quesabirria and consume is $4 cheaper than other places.

2

Prices at Mariscos La Morena are affordable.

3

There is plenty of free parking on site.

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Small Mexican spot serves freshly prepared tacos and affordable burritos with perfectly seasoned carne asada. Cozy, family-owned vibe makes it feel authentic and homey. Quick service keeps locals coming back for healthy, flavorful meals.

Breakfast and California burritos stand out with perfectly seasoned carne asada and adobada. Tacos arrive quickly, offering a fresh and authentic taste that feels both healthy and affordable.

People are saying

"The breakfast burrito here is packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

When ordering coffee, specify black, or it comes pre-sweetened.

2

Prices are great for the quality of food offered.

3

The restaurant is clean, organized, and attractive.

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Remodeled space with open kitchen view and bright yellow umbrellas creates a clean, inviting vibe. Al Pastor tacos shine with perfect seasoning and fresh tortillas. Outdoor bar area adds a casual, social vibe for enjoying authentic Mexican flavors.

Al Pastor tacos stand out with perfect seasoning and fresh tortillas. Burritos and tacos come hot and packed with house-made Mexican flavors that match authentic quality from Mexico City.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is made with genuine care and warmth."

Good to know

1

Crest Taco offers a limited menu of high-quality tacos, burritos, and quesadillas.

2

Fish tacos are available for $1.99, making them a budget-friendly option.

3

The restaurant is open late on weekends, perfect for late-night cravings.

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Small, cozy spot with a quiet atmosphere and family-style vibe. Enjoy birria tacos with rich consommé and a Cali Burrito that stands out. Outdoor patio welcomes pups, making it a neat, casual place for authentic Mexican food.

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."

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.

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Mexican restaurant offers grilled snapper taco and authentic street tacos in a chill, cozy atmosphere with open market seating. Plenty of outdoor patio space adds to the relaxed vibe. Try the guava margarita with hibiscus rim for a perfect meal complement.

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."

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.

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Mexican restaurant serves Birria tacos and spicy refried beans with bold flavors. Casual vibe shines with sidewalk dining and a lively salsa bar. Sports TVs add energy while seating faces the city street for a welcoming feel.

Tacos come with unique seasonings and include standout options like Birria and fish tacos. Burritos and breakfast tacos offer large portions and bold flavors, while refried beans add a spicy kick.

People are saying

"The fish tacos here are amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Each burrito costs $17, which may not be a good value for some.

2

The vegetarian burrito contains lard, making it unsuitable for strict vegetarians.

3

The restaurant is small, so expect limited seating and possible wait times.

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Colorful storefront and outdoor seating offer great pier views. Fish tacos are consistently delicious and affordable, paired well with $5 margaritas and draft beers. Atmosphere shifts from quiet to lively with Mexican music and a self-serve salsa bar.

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."

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.

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Food truck serves authentic street flavors with tacos like carnitas and chorizo at $3.50 each. Charcoal grill aroma fills the lively, festive atmosphere with faint mariachi music. Outdoor seating is limited and tight under bright, blue-shifted patio lights.

Tacos come with authentic street flavors and a charcoal grill aroma that stands out. Options like carnitas, pollo, chorizo, and tripe offer a delicious variety at $3.50 each.

People are saying

"These tacos are the best street tacos I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Each taco costs $3.50, which is considered an exceptional value.

2

There are only a few seats available, and most people buy their tacos to go.

3

The dining area is dirty, which may affect your experience.

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Small taco shop serves California burrito and carne asada with large portions and great flavor. Casual, local vibe with simple booths and spotless space. Prices stay very reasonable, making it a solid choice for Mexican food lovers.

California-style Mexican food shines with California burrito and carne asada tacos offering great size and flavor. Potato rolled tacos and beef sopes add variety, while guacamole stands out as excellent.

People are saying

"I found the California burrito to be tasty Mexican food."

Good to know

1

Prices are low, allowing a full meal for less than $15.

2

Credit card payments incur a minimum $5 or 50 cent fee.

3

The menu prices may not reflect the final charge due to extra fees.

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Warm interior and beautiful decor create a welcoming vibe. Authentic Mexican dishes like birria tacos with rich consome and fresh homemade tortillas shine. Generous portions and fresh ingredients make meals satisfying without alcohol service.

Birria tacos come with a rich, clear consome that is not greasy or overly salty. Mole rojo and green pozole stand out for their deep, authentic flavors. Tacos like Al pastor and fish tacos feature generous portions and fresh ingredients, with tortillas made fresh daily.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

Good food takes time, and customers should expect a wait, similar to other sit-down restaurants.

2

Their tacos now come on freshly made corn tortillas at this location.

3

The prices at TODO PA' LA CRUDA weren’t bad.

23
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Enjoy smoked fish tacos with fresh cabbage and pico de gallo at this Baja style food truck. Generous portions and affordable prices make it a great spot. Sunny, peaceful atmosphere in late morning adds to the experience despite some nearby noise.

Smoked fish tacos stand out with fresh cabbage, pico de gallo, and a delicious sauce. Baja style fish and shrimp tacos come with tasty ceviche and salsas, plus specials like Taco Tuesday offer good value.

People are saying

"The fish tacos here are super tasty and on point."

Good to know

1

Expect the food truck to get busy after 6 pm.

2

Taco Tuesday offers three Baja style fish tacos for $9.

3

No public restrooms are available at the food truck.

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Small spot offers handmade tamales and shrimp tostadas with bold flavors. Cozy, no-frills setup creates a friendly atmosphere perfect for quick snacks or takeaway. Lines form often, showing steady demand for affordable, flavorful food.

Small spot serves handmade tamales and flavorful tortas with fresh veggies and a good kick. Shrimp tostadas and Mexican hot dogs stand out as tasty options for quick bites.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tortas, is gigantic and filling."

Good to know

1

The chicken torta and a soda cost $17.xx.

2

The restaurant is very small, with less than 10 seats.

3

One torta is enough for two people.

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Modern Latin-American design creates a stylish, inviting space with warm textures and live plants. Tacos like the Vietnamese taco and taco gringa offer bold Mexican flavors. Lively playlist and seductive lighting set a vibrant mood for a refined nightlife experience.

Tacos shine here with varieties like the Vietnamese taco and taco gringa standing out. The Pastel de Elote Asado offers a unique grilled corn cake, while tostadas like the Tostada Vietnamita feature fresh slaw and serrano peppers for a crisp bite.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is mouth-wateringly amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging on busy evenings, so arrive early.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

3

Expect a vibrant atmosphere with live entertainment on weekends.

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Stylish interior and live music create a fun, relaxed vibe like a family gathering. Authentic Mexican flavors shine in cochito tacos and Machaca breakfast burritos. Small bar adds to the casual, welcoming atmosphere.

Cochito tatemado tacos stand out with juicy, flavorful pork that many find a must-try. Burritos like the Machaca breakfast and carne asada are packed with tender meat and bold seasoning, while taco combos offer great value with perfectly cooked, hot fillings.

People are saying

"I ate the Mexican food so quickly, I couldn't wait to finish."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a Tuesday 3x1 deal on mini cochino tacos.

2

Expect a 10-minute wait for taco orders during busy hours.

3

The menu features a limited selection of authentic Mexican dishes.

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Outdoor seating invites guests to enjoy a clean, welcoming space. Fresh Mexican dishes like breakfast burritos with homemade tortillas shine alongside deli options. Prices stay reasonable, making it perfect for quick or relaxed meals with flavorful salsas.

Breakfast burritos stand out with fresh ingredients and a homemade tortilla that is not greasy. Quesadillas feature chunks of grilled chicken and cheddar, paired with flavorful salsas ranging from mild to habanero heat.

People are saying

"The breakfast burrito here is hearty and delicious."

Good to know

1

The new owner added fresh Mexican options to the deli menu.

2

It's easy to place your order online or ahead of time.

3

The restaurant is clean and well maintained, including outdoor tables.

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