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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Core-Columbia

Mexican food spots

You are looking for a place that prioritizes authentic Mexican flavors.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Roxy’s Tacos image 1
Roxy’s Tacos image 2
Roxy’s Tacos image 3
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Mexican restaurant

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

"I had the best burrito I’ve ever had."

"The fried fish tacos here are so good, I ordered them again."

"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.

02
The Farmacy image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor patio offers a chill vibe with a bright, comfortable interior. Breakfast burritos shine with red and green chile, reflecting the chef's roots. Portions are great-sized and filling, perfect for a calm brunch.

Breakfast burritos feature red and green chile reflecting the chef's background in New Mexico and South Dakota. Breakfast tacos come in great-sized portions and are very filling.

People are saying

"I had the best breakfast burrito I've ever tasted."

"The food here is fantastic and tasted great."

"I've never had a breakfast burrito this good; it's top-notch."

Good to know

1

The Farmacy offers plenty of inside and outside seating.

2

The prices at The Farmacy are very reasonable.

3

Expect no long lines, making it a quick breakfast option.

03
Carnivore Sandwich image 1

Bright, modern deli serves all-day breakfast with roast beef burritos that pack flavor and spice. Large portions of Chicago-style sandwiches use high-quality ingredients. Cozy indoor and outdoor seating create a community vibe perfect for a chill meal.

Breakfast burritos stand out with roast beef, hash browns, and egg packed inside. The boss burrito offers a medium spice level, while the steak burrito delivers a flavorful and filling experience.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, with generous portions and great pricing."

"Cam makes you feel like his favorite customer with his friendly sandwich service."

"I had the best breakfast burrito I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers Chicago-style hot dogs and sandwiches.

2

There is both indoor and outdoor patio seating.

3

The prices are very reasonable.

04
7 Café image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Spacious café offers authentic chilaquiles with rich sauces and fresh Mexican coffee. Cozy, light atmosphere feels welcoming and local. Simple outdoor seating adds to the breezy vibe perfect for relaxed mornings.

Authentic chilaquiles come with rich, flavorful sauces. Freshly brewed Mexican coffee complements the dishes well.

People are saying

"The food at this cafe is amazing and delicious."

"I thought the pancakes here were the best I'd ever had."

"Their authentic Mexican coffee and chilaquiles were delicious."

Good to know

1

Portion sizes were large for the reasonable price.

2

Prices were considered fair and affordable.

3

The café offered a variety of dishes with fresh ingredients.

05
Ali's Chicken & Waffles image 1
Chicken restaurant

Enjoy crispy chicken cooked fresh with halal options in a spacious, wheelchair accessible spot. Try the spicy Ali sauce on burritos for a bold Mexican twist. Games add a fun, casual vibe while you wait.

Chicken and breakfast burritos stand out with a spicy Ali sauce that adds a bold kick. The surf and bird burrito combines flavors well, making it flavorful and satisfying.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and well-priced."

"I really enjoyed the chicken and waffles here."

"I had the most flavorful and satisfying Mexican food burrito."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a halal menu with a variety of options.

2

Parking is a little tough in this area, but spots can be found on 6th Street.

3

You can order through their website for better prices.

06
Kiko's Place restaurant image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood spot shines with authentic fish tacos and fresh ceviche. Colorful decor and loud music create a lively vibe. Seating is tight and tables can be shaky, but prices stay affordable.

Fish tacos stand out with authentic San Felipe Baja style and a light red sauce that complements the flavor. Grilled shrimp tacos and ceviche also offer fresh, delicious seafood options.

People are saying

"The fish tacos here are amazingly delicious and wonderful."

"The ceviche here is super fresh and tasty."

"I thought the fish tacos were amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers 3 large fish tacos for $9.99.

2

Daily specials include 2 fish tacos and a Tecate beer at a great price.

3

Prices are lower than those in the nearby Gaslamp area.

07
Portside Coffee & Gelato image 1

Harborfront setting offers panoramic water views and dock seating for a relaxed vibe. Breakfast burritos shine with a savory, filling mix of protein and potato. Cozy tables with umbrellas create a peaceful atmosphere perfect for casual mornings.

Breakfast burritos stand out with a savory, filling mix of protein and potato that feels balanced. Cali burritos and breakfast sandwiches also deliver great taste.

People are saying

"The coffee here is amazing with the sparkling ocean view."

"The tea here is served by the kindest, friendliest staff."

"The breakfast burritos here are savory, filling, and surprisingly large."

Good to know

1

You need to order your food and drinks at the kiosk in the front.

2

Parking isn't the best, and I should expect to park far away and pay.

3

They accept some credit and debit cards as an additional payment method besides cash.

08
6th & G Breakfast Co image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Selective eclectic design creates a 1920's speakeasy vibe with colorful art and unique decor. Creative Mexican dishes like Birria Benedicts and chipotle chilaquiles offer bold, satisfying flavors. Friendly staff and both indoor and outdoor seating make for a fun, lively atmosphere perfect for breakfast.

Creative takes on Mexican dishes shine with Birria Benedicts featuring tender meat and creamy sauce. The chipotle chilaquiles deliver a bold flavor punch, while the breakfast burrito and grilled Birria sandwich offer hearty, satisfying options.

People are saying

"The Turkish Eggs here are really great and flavorful."

"The Lemon Meringue French Toast has an exceptional lemon curd sauce."

"You have to try the chipotle chilaquiles; the flavor is perfect."

Good to know

1

There is a 30-minute wait during peak hours, so be prepared.

2

No reservations are accepted; only a wait list is available.

3

Expect large portions for about $15 per dish.

09
Appetite image 1
Restaurant

Cozy spot offers large breakfast burritos with chorizo or sausage, perfect for quick bites. Combines a convenience store stocked with candies and drinks, creating a calm energy. Known for toasted soft bread sandwiches, it suits those needing a fast, tasty meal.

Breakfast burritos stand out with chorizo and sausage options, packed large enough to save or share. Meat and cheese can be left out without losing flavor, making them versatile for dietary needs.

People are saying

"The food here is great, and the staff is so welcoming."

"I found the breakfast burritos here to be amazing."

"I found the breakfast burrito with chorizo to be fantastic."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $26 for a salad and a small bowl of chili.

2

Sandwiches are priced around $18, which may be considered high.

3

Appetite offers a variety of food options and also sells convenience items.

10
Lucys Taco Shop image 1
Taco restaurant

Colorful taco shop offers authentic Mexican street food with large, flavorful burritos. Outdoor seating is cramped and indoor space is minimal, set against a grimy, unappealing look with loud music. Breakfast burritos feature crispy bacon and spicy salsa for a bold start.

Breakfast burritos come with crispy bacon, well-seasoned beans, potatoes, cheese, and salsa with a kick. Cali Burritos offer great flavors and generous portions. Rolled tacos and taquitos feature plenty of meat and crisp textures, paired well with flavorful salsas.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the burritos, is massive and packed with great flavors."

"This breakfast burrito is giant and fantastic."

"The salsa has a great flavor and a kick."

Good to know

1

Expect limited seating inside, especially during peak hours.

2

Prices for tacos start at $6 each, with two simple meat tacos costing $12.

3

There is no parking available nearby; most customers walk or use public transport.

11
Mariscos y Miches El Patron image 1

Neon lights and mirrors create a vibrant atmosphere with a friendly vibe. Authentic Sinaloa-style seafood shines in shrimp tostadas and tacos, paired with cocktails like the octopus cocktail. Live bands and salsa dancing bring lively weekend energy.

Shrimp tostadas and tacos feature prominently with fresh, authentic mariscos. The Green Aguachile Tostada offers a balanced heat that highlights its flavor. Cocktails like the octopus cocktail complement the seafood dishes well.

People are saying

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

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

"The service is so caring and attentive, especially for kids."

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not serve alcohol, so plan accordingly.

2

Expect limited menu options, particularly for fried fish.

3

Prices are reasonable for the portion sizes offered.

12
Valentine's Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Casual Mexican spot downtown offers hefty burritos and authentic menudo in a lively, cozy setting with Frida Kahlo art. Double-fried chips with flavorful salsa add to the quick, satisfying meal experience.

Mexican food here is authentic and filling with standout dishes like menudo, burritos, and flautas. The salsa has a wonderful flavor and just enough heat to pause every few chips.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic and reminds me of home."

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the flavorful al pastor."

"This lunch spot's food is always just right."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash, so plan accordingly.

2

Expect a wait during peak lunch hours due to high customer volume.

3

The taco menu does not display prices, which may surprise first-time visitors.

13
STK Steakhouse image 1
Steak house

Modern steakhouse buzzes with a live DJ and rooftop bar, perfect for lively nights. Mexican dishes shine with A-5 Wagyu beef tacos and savory short rib quesadillas. Cocktails, especially spicy Margaritas, pair well with unique sides like crab cake-sized tater tots.

Short rib quesadillas come soft and savory. A-5 Wagyu beef tacos use trimmings for extra flavor. The menu also features beef tacos, spicy Margaritas, and unique sides like tater tots served like crab cake-sized tartar.

People are saying

"I loved each dish I tried; the food was spectacular."

"The service at dinner spots was top-tier and made the whole experience effortless."

"The Mexican Food here is awesome, and the staff is super nice."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs on weekdays from 2:30 to 6:30 pm with great deals.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy weekends.

3

Parking can be challenging during holidays due to downtown location.

14
Sabrina Cafe & Deli image 1

Deli offers big sandwiches with quick service in a friendly atmosphere. Burritos feature spicy sauce and crisped tortillas with savory fillings. Locals enjoy reasonable prices near courthouse and trolley.

Spicy sauce adds a well-balanced flavor explosion to the burrito. Tortillas come crisped outside and soft inside, holding savory fillings well. Sausage burritos often have minimal sausage and mostly potatoes.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches were delicious."

"I loved the coffee here; Mike made me the best ever."

"This Mexican food is flavorful and perfectly wrapped."

Good to know

1

The cafe is conveniently located near the courthouse, making it ideal for visitors.

2

Expect a short wait time for food after ordering.

3

Prices are reasonable compared to other dining options in the area.

15
Coffeentalk image 1
Coffee shop

Open layout and secluded patio create a cozy vibe for work or chat. Breakfast burritos feature homemade salsa and French fries inside. Soft music adds to the relaxed atmosphere, perfect for unwinding indoors or outdoors.

Breakfast burritos come with homemade salsa but sometimes arrive without it. They include French fries inside and have minimal egg and occasional meat tendon.

People are saying

"The coffee here is amazing, and the baristas are so nice."

"The outdoor seating area is so cute and secluded."

"You have to try their delicious breakfast burritos."

Good to know

1

A large specialty coffee costs $7, while bagels are priced at $9.

2

The internet connection is poor, making it unsuitable for work.

3

Coffeentalk offers outdoor seating for a pleasant experience.

16
Burgeon at The Arbor - Little Italy image 1

Brewpub shines with huge indoor seating and a lively patio. Mexican menu features stewed shrimp tacos and bold flautas. Vibe blends beach-like chill with 90s hits and sports on TV, perfect for craft beer lovers and socializing.

Stewed shrimp fills the tacos instead of the usual battered style, offering a different but tasty take. Flautas and pretzels with beer cheese stand out as bold flavors in the Mexican food lineup.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great beer selection here."

"I thought the food here was delicious and innovative."

"The Mexican food and drinks here are great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-5pm Monday to Thursday with discounted drinks.

2

Trivia Tuesday features fun quizzes at 7pm with prizes for winners.

3

Wing Wednesday offers special pricing on wings all day.

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Core-Columbia, San Diego

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