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.
Salsa options come with a great selection and super tasty flavors. They offer choices for those who prefer less heat and even have a salsa bar with multiple options.
Red quesadillas stand out with beef birria, cheese, cilantro, and onions. They taste rich and are made to perfection.
"I found all six salsas to be fantastic and tasty."
"I thought the quesadilla was perfect and delicious."
Good to know
On Tuesdays, a free taco is offered with meal combo orders.
Expect a lively atmosphere on Taco Tuesdays with many locals attending.
Parking is available nearby, but can fill up quickly during peak hours.
Outdoor patio offers dog-friendly seating with chill vibes and good music. The menu includes varied vegan options alongside traditional Mexican dishes, served in generous portions. Easy parking and proximity to a brewery add to a relaxed, casual atmosphere.
Orange salsa stands out with its bright flavor. Various salsas complement dishes like tacos, gorditas, and flautas, adding fresh zest to each bite.
Quesadillas come with vegetarian and vegan options and pair well with various salsas. The stand offers a diverse selection including gorditas and loaded mulitas alongside quesadillas.
"I loved the delicious tacos and especially the orange salsa."
"The staff here really care about their Quesadillas."
Good to know
The brewery is located at Mujeres Brewery on 1983 Julian Ave.
Miguelito’s Catering Service & Antojitos Mexicanos offers a variety of vegan options.
There are lots of vegetarian options available.
Stylish interior combines with live music and a small bar to create a fun, relaxed vibe. The atmosphere feels like a family gathering with authentic Mexican flavors filling the air. Known for pork and cochito tacos, the place offers a casual, authentic dining experience.
Salsas come in a sampler that offers a variety of flavors while waiting. They have a spicy kick and pair perfectly with fresh tortillas and juicy meats.
Quesadillas come with cochito tatemado and asada options. The asada quesadilla stands out as a solid choice.
"The salsa here is spicy and hits the spot."
"You have to try the cochito tatemado quesadilla; it's a must-try."
Good to know
The restaurant offers a Tuesday 3x1 deal on mini cochino tacos.
Expect a 10-minute wait for taco orders during busy hours.
The menu features a limited selection of authentic Mexican dishes.
Small space with simple decor and a self-serve salsa bar offers a fresh, lively atmosphere. Background music keeps energy up while seating accommodates a steady flow of guests. Known for authentic street tacos and generous burritos, it stands out for quality and variety.
Salsas come fresh and flavorful with several quality choices at the salsa bar. Both salsas rojas y verdes stand out as delicious and complement the good meats well.
Quesadillas come in generous portions, with the Birria pizza resembling a large birria quesadilla sliced into about 10 pieces. Pricing matches the guacamole at $6, making the quesadilla a solid value option.
"I found the salsa here to be fantastic and the prices reasonable."
Good to know
Californias Taco Shop is takeout only, so plan accordingly.
Expect to pay around $28 for a dinner for two.
Parking can be tough during busy weekday lunch hours.
Small, charming Mexican restaurant with handmade tortillas and a varied salsa bar. Inside seating features traditional decorations like piñatas and mellow yellow lighting, creating a friendly, authentic vibe. The atmosphere feels lively and welcoming, reflecting a family-run, homely energy.
Salsa options include a black bean salsa rated highly and a house-made pickled carrots addition at the salsa bar. The bar offers a variety of authentic Mexican salsas alongside homemade tortillas.
Quesadillas come in large portions with options like carne asada, chicken, and gobernador shrimp. The cheese quesadilla stands out as especially flavorful and well-loved by all ages.
"The salsa bar has a delicious variety of fresh options."
"I believed the quesadillas here were the best."
Good to know
Taco Tuesday offers tacos for $2.99 each.
They have dedicated gluten-free fryers to avoid cross-contamination.
Parking can be challenging near the restaurant.
Mexican restaurant with a family atmosphere and community vibe feels like entering a relative's home. The space is casual and relaxed but often packed and lively, creating a warm and welcoming environment.
Spicy and flavorful red salsa comes with limes, radishes, and corn tortillas dipped in meat broth. Salt is provided, which is rare and adds to the experience.
Complimentary quesadillas showcase the kitchen's confidence in their quality. Tortas and quesadillas both stand out as amazing options here.
"I thought the birria quesadilla was fantastic."
"The staff's friendly and patient service made ordering Salsa easy."
Good to know
Parking is limited at La Central Birria and it can get busy.
They turned away more than 10 people while I was there.
They were out of birria at 1:15 and 1:30 PM, even though they closed at 2 PM.
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.
Salsas come fresh and homemade with many options available for self-service. The habanero salsa stands out as particularly awesome and flavorful.
Steak quesadillas come packed with flavor and the shrimp quesadillas taste fantastic. Carne Asada quesadillas stand out as awesome options.
"I loved the self-serve salsa bar with so many flavorful options."
"The quesadillas here are packed with flavor."
Good to know
On Tuesdays, enjoy $2.50 street tacos and two for $5 specials.
Happy hour features $3 pints and $6 margaritas from 2 to 6 PM and all day on weekends.
Outdoor seating is available for dogs.
Small space with heated outdoor seating and picnic tables creates a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere. Upbeat music adds to the chill vibe while friendly staff contribute to a comfortable experience. Outdoor seating offers a pleasant spot despite the surrounding urban grunge.
Green salsa stands out with a flavor that pops and makes taste buds tingle. Other salsas range from extremely flavorful to the hottest ever tasted, all adding great taste to tacos and chips.
Carne asada quesadillas stand out with rich flavor and tender meat. Chicken quesadillas also offer a great taste. Both options come highly recommended.
"The salsas here are packed with authentic flavor."
"I've never had a carne asada quesadilla this good."
Good to know
Parking is limited in the downtown area, so arrive early.
Expect long wait times during peak lunch hours.
The restaurant does not have a restroom available for customers.
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.
Homemade tortillas, chips, and salsas stand out here. The salsa bar offers a variety of fantastic salsas, including a medium green salsa and a red hot Chile de arbol hot sauce with strong flavor and heat.
Quesadillas come big and cheesy, often made with white cheese. The birria quesadilla stands out as a flavorful choice. Mushroom quesadillas also appear on the menu when available.
"The salsa bar is fantastic, with so many tasty options."
"You have to try the birria quesadilla; it's incredible."
Good to know
Taco Time Cantina offers unique taco options not available anywhere else.
The chef makes everything daily from scratch with over 20 years of experience.
Expect a 2% credit card surcharge not listed on the menu.
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.
Fresh mango salsa shines on the scallop taco. The salsa bar offers spicy homemade salsa, chipotle crema, and salsa verde that pair well with fillings like carne and octopus.
Quesadillas come in large portions that are good for sharing. Options like Pollo Adobo and xtra-cheesy giant stand out for flavor and size.
"The salsas here are fresh and flavorful."
"The quesadillas here are giant and xtra-cheesy."
Good to know
Parking is available around the corner from the restaurant.
The restaurant does not have public restrooms for customers.
Expect no wait to order on Sunday nights.
Food truck setup offers fresh Mexican tacos with homemade salsas and vegetarian options. Atmosphere feels homey and pairs well with the adjacent brewery, creating a casual spot for eating and drinking. Ordering involves a self-service kiosk, though it can be inefficient at times.
Red salsa stands out for its hot but addicting flavor. Homemade salsas consistently deliver delicious taste that complements dishes like shrimp burritos and pollo asado tacos.
"The burritos here are huge, messy, and delicious."
Good to know
Most tacos cost about $3.99, making it an affordable option.
The food truck has shaded outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying your meal.
Catering services are available for events, providing a convenient option for large groups.
Mexican restaurant with fresh, authentic flavors and a salsa bar offering various sauces. Interior feels cool and inviting despite simple seating, creating a casual atmosphere. Known for generous portions and well-prepared meats, it attracts those who value flavor and freshness.
Salsas come in a wide variety and are clearly homemade with vibrant flavors. The salsa bar offers plenty of options to mix with dishes like burritos.
Huge quesadillas come with a good flour tortilla and a balanced amount of cheese. Both chicken and cheese quesadillas stand out as excellent and well-portioned options.
"I found their tacos to be authentic, fresh, and flavor-packed."
"The quesadillas here are huge and not too cheesy."
Good to know
They offer 99¢ tacos on Tuesday and 3 for $7 all week long.
Expect a busy atmosphere on Taco Tuesdays due to the great deals.
Parking is limited, so consider street parking or arriving by rideshare.
Narrow space with rail seating and a self-serve salsa bar offers a casual, hole-in-the-wall vibe. Atmosphere feels humble and welcoming, though seating can be cramped. Outdoor tables provide a pleasant alternative when weather allows.
Smoked tomatillo salsa stands out with its rich flavor. A salsa bar offers variety to complement dishes like birria and pollo tacos.
Quesadillas come with tender carne and a buttery, cheesy filling. Options include carne asada with avocado and birria quesadilla tacos, often served with salsa and guacamole.
"I had the best carne asada of my life."
"The quesadilla's carne was so tender and delicious."
Good to know
Taco Tuesdays offer a buy 2 get 1 free deal on tacos.
The restaurant is open until 3 AM for late-night eats.
Parking can be challenging since it's located in Gaslamp.
Food truck setup with outdoor seating and loud Mexican music creates a lively street food vibe. Friendly staff offer complimentary soup while waiting, enhancing the casual experience. Known for highly rated seafood tacos, it attracts seafood lovers despite occasional long waits and limited parking.
Homemade chipotle salsa stands out with a smoky bacon aftertaste despite no bacon in it. Both green and red salsas deliver perfect flavor and quality.
Seafood quesadillas stand out with options like spicy seafood mix, smoked fish, and garlic octopus. These quesadillas offer a Latin flavor that pairs well with tacos and burritos.
"Their homemade chipotle salsa has a smoky bacon aftertaste."
Good to know
Taco Tuesday offers a special deal on tacos.
Expect long wait times for food during peak hours.
Parking is challenging due to the busy street.
Sports bar with ocean views from a rooftop Sky Deck offers a laid-back, energetic vibe reflecting SoCal beach culture. Music plays to enhance the chill atmosphere where people gather to watch sunsets and enjoy drinks.
Salsa comes fresh and flavorful with a side of beans that stands out. Chips stay crunchy and pair well with the guacamole and salsa.
Breakfast quesadillas come in a large portion and pack a flavorful punch, especially with jalapenos added. Chicken quesadillas pair well with drinks but may require a wait for extra pico de gallo.
"The fish tacos here are fresh, crispy, and perfectly balanced."
"The breakfast quesadilla is enough for two meals."
Good to know
Happy Hour runs Monday through Friday from 3 PM to 6 PM.
Taco Tuesday is popular and considered one of the best in the area.
A 4% surcharge is added to all bills, which may affect your total cost.
Small dining area offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with loud festive music and self-serve salsa bar. Plenty of seating suits large groups, creating a lively yet relaxed vibe. Clean and open space feels like a home away from home.
A fresh salsa bar offers a variety of spicy roasted pepper salsas and other vegetables. The selection is top tier and complements the flavorful menu well.
Carne asada quesadillas come in large portions and can be hard to finish. Corn tortilla quesadillas, or mulitas, are available for gluten-free diets. Some quesadillas receive mixed reviews, but options include surf and turf varieties.
"I loved their awesome selection of tasty salsas."
"I found the quesadillas here to be absolutely fantastic."
Good to know
Taco Tuesday offers special deals that attract many guests.
Parking frequently gets tight in this strip mall.
There is a 50-cent fee to use debit cards.
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.
Salsas here are homemade and pack a spicy, flavorful punch. Everything tastes fresh and hits the mark perfectly.
"The salsa here is delicious and perfectly spiced."
"The steak quesadilla really embraced homemade Mexican food."
Good to know
Tacos cost $5 each, making them an affordable option.
The restaurant is located one block off Old Town Avenue.
Free public parking is available across the street.
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.
Generous portions come with delicious salsas that add great flavour. A DIY salsa bar used to be available, enhancing the experience.
Quesadillas come in large portions with options like the Carne Asada and Sonora, which includes chicken, cheese, guacamole, bacon, and Ortega chiles. The menu also offers adventurous choices like the tuna quesadilla.
"The green salsa really complemented the burrito."
"This quesadilla is gigantic; I had to eat it with a fork."
Good to know
Taco Tuesday offers 3 tacos and a drink for $6.
Expect large portions, often enough for two or three meals.
Credit cards accepted, but there's a $0.30 fee for using them.
Small Mexican restaurant with limited indoor seating and a sunny outdoor patio featuring tables under umbrellas. Atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, with a clean and modern design. A standout feature is the self-serve salsa bar offering a wide variety of options to customize meals.
A salsa bar offers a wide range of options with varying heat levels. Authentic flour tortillas come with great salsas to spice up food as much or as little as desired.
Huge quesadillas come with soft, juicy carne asada that can be greasy but tasty. Chicken and cheese quesadillas include peppers and onions, which might surprise some.
"The salsa options are excellent, with a spicy darker red one."
"The carne asada quesadilla was huge, soft, juicy, and delicious."
Good to know
There are only 6-7 parking spots on site, and street parking is often full.
The price for a large California burrito is $11, which is reasonable.
They offer a large selection of Mexican dishes beyond just tacos.
Spacious interior with Dia Los Muertos themed décor creates a relaxed confidence and a bright, clean atmosphere. Music varies from chill to loud, influencing the vibe from calm to lively. Seating offers comfort and space, welcoming solo diners and lunch breaks without pressure.
Three salsas stand out for their spicy kick and flavor. The verde salsa is notably hot, while the black salsa offers a strong, spicy taste that many find delicious.
Tri Tip stands out in the quesadillas, especially the crack (tri-tip) version. They come with guacamole and sour cream, though sometimes these extras are missing.
"I loved their amazing salsas; they were all good."
"I thought the tri-tip quesadilla was amazing."
Good to know
Happy Hour offers $3 tacos from 3 to 5 pm.
Ask about food if you have allergies or dietary restrictions.
The restaurant has a rewards program for discounts on future visits.
Modern Mexican restaurant offers spacious indoor and outdoor seating with a breezy patio elevated for people watching. Atmosphere feels high class yet welcoming, with artistic plating and a lively bar featuring fresh margaritas and unique cocktails. Crowd enjoys a comfortable, friendly vibe with generous portions and stylish design.
Salsa here stands out with superb flavor and pairs well with the costillas en salsa verde. The guacamole and salsa appetizers are also terrific and complement the tacos, especially lamb or beef.
Quesadillas come with mushroom tinga or chicken tinga fillings, served alongside beans and rice. The quesadillas de huitlacoche and pinga quesadillas stand out as flavorful options.
"The mushroom tinga quesadilla was one of the best vegetarian dishes I've had."
"The salsa verde here is delicious with crispy tortillas."
Good to know
Happy hour runs from 3 to 5 pm most days with affordable prices.
Expect a busy crowd on weekends; arrive early to avoid long waits.
Parking can be limited with only street parking available.
Outdoor seating dominates with four and two-top tables under an open door that warms the space. A salsa bar adds a lively touch, complementing the homemade tortillas and generous portions that define the menu. The atmosphere balances casual dining with affordable prices and a steady lunch rush.
A salsa bar offers a variety of options with a standout avocado salsa verde and a popular green salsa. The salsas are consistently delicious and well-crafted.
"I thought the burritos here were incredible."
Good to know
Watch out for long wait times during the lunch rush.
The restaurant offers generous portions for the price.
Homemade tortillas are used in all dishes.
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.
Small, fresh-cut chips come with a secret salsa that stands out. The orange salsa offers a unique, yummy flavor and generous portion size.
Quesadillas come with generous fillings like beef birria and asada. Portions are large and the flavor is consistently delicious.
"The quesadilla here is huge and delicious."
"The salsa here is packed with flavor and delicious."
Good to know
Parking can be tricky at times, so arrive early.
Expect a wait time of about 45 minutes during peak hours.
Taco Tuesday offers three tacos for $9, a good deal.
Open, spacious dining area features bright murals and mounted TVs creating a casual, authentic vibe. A self-serve salsa bar with hot carrots adds interactive flavor options. The atmosphere suits relaxed meals with family and friends, blending modern comfort with traditional Mexican elements.
Salsas here have a perfectly balanced flavor that complements dishes like pollo asada tacos and the carne asada burrito con queso.
Grilled chicken quesadilla includes guacamole and sour cream inside, not on the side. Chicken pieces are small, with most filling from the toppings. Menu lists protein, cheese, sour cream, and pico de gallo as ingredients.
"The salsas here are rich, delicious, and perfectly balanced."
"I found the grilled chicken quesadilla to be delicious and tasty."
Good to know
Taco Tuesday offers four tacos for $7 starting at 2 PM.
Happy hour runs from 4 to 8 PM with fish tacos at $1.29 each.
They accept credit cards only; no cash payments.
Hole-in-the-wall Mexican eatery with a small patio off a main road offers a chill atmosphere and easy parking. Large portions and a 24/7 open schedule attract those seeking generous servings and fast Mexican food. A salsa bar adds a fresh touch to the straightforward setup.
Salsa here has great flavor and a thick texture, not watery. The mango salsa stands out as a memorable choice.
Quesadillas come in a wide variety here, including the adobada quesadilla. They serve as a meal unto themselves with hearty fillings.
"The salsa here has great flavor and isn't watery."
"This quesadilla is perfect for a late-night meal."
Good to know
Vallarta Express is open 24/7, making it convenient for late-night cravings.
Parking is ample and easy at Vallarta Express.
Drive-through service is available for quick orders.
Outdoor patio with fire pits and heat lamps creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Mostly outdoor seating blends with a full bar and fun music for a lively, comfortable vibe. Organic, fresh ingredients complement the modern, pleasant setting.
Salsa comes in homemade spicy options with both red and green varieties that pack heat. Burritos include a choice of salsa and house fried tortilla chips, but there are no free chips and salsa.
"The salsa here is homemade and pretty spicy."
Good to know
Happy hour runs daily from 3-6 pm with half-price tacos and draft beers.
Taco Tuesday features 50% off tacos and $5 margaritas during happy hour.
Parking is limited with no street parking available.
Mexican restaurant offers a spacious outdoor area with space heaters and a well-stocked bar inside. The atmosphere combines good music with a lively vibe, especially in the upstairs speakeasy bar where dancing happens. Tables are often close together, creating a crowded but energetic setting.
Four salsas come with house-made chips, featuring two mild-medium and two hot varieties. A red salsa likely made with Arbol chile and a creamy Jalapeño salsa stand out for their unique flavors.
"Maile's bright personality brought the salsa and made the night memorable."
Good to know
For Taco Tuesday, all appetizers and select tacos are 50% off.
The grilled fish tacos cost only $4 during happy hour.
Happy hour at El Sueño offers great prices on drinks and appetizers.