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Top picks in Kearny Mesa

Mexican salsa

A Mexican meal where the salsa is treated as a main event rather than an afterthought.

Based on 567 Opinions
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01
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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.

Tacos come with super juicy carnitas and flavorful pollo adobada. Burritos and shrimp bowls also stand out, paired with hot red salsa that adds a memorable kick.

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.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the burritos, is amazing."

"The burritos here are huge, messy, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Most tacos cost about $3.99, making it an affordable option.

2

The food truck has shaded outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying your meal.

3

Catering services are available for events, providing a convenient option for large groups.

02
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Minimalist taco shop style sets a clean, comfy, and quiet atmosphere with cafeteria-style seating. A self-serve salsa bar and free hot carrots add to the casual vibe. Known for authentic California burritos and consistent quality, it stays open late when others close.

Carne asada fries stand out with a Surf & Turf twist and crispy fries inside the California burrito. The salsa bar offers spicy carrots, jalapenos, and tasty salsas. Burritos come in generous sizes, and quesadillas pack more food than expected.

A salsa bar offers chips, spicy carrots, jalapenos, and several tasty salsas. The chunky green salsa stands out with onions and cilantro, adding flavor to burritos.

People are saying

"The carne asada and California burritos are solid."

"The salsa bar has awesome, tasty salsas and spicy carrots and jalapenos."

Good to know

1

$2 taco Tuesdays offer a budget-friendly option for visitors.

2

Cali's & Fries has plenty of parking available in front.

3

The restaurant is known for its clean bathrooms.

03
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Mexican restaurant with an open, comfortable layout and beachy motifs creates a casual, relaxed vibe. The atmosphere stays active and welcoming, making it suitable for quick, affordable meals. Fish tacos stand out as a signature dish enjoyed by many.

Fish tacos stand out with unmatched flavor, including beer battered shrimp and lobster options. Taco Tuesday offers specials all day, featuring items like the chicken bacon jalapeรฑo taco and grilled chipotle-lime chicken tacos.

Salsa bar offers a great variety of options. Picante salsa stands out with its bold flavor. Adding salsa and pepper enhances the beans with extra taste.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food, especially the tacos, to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers $2 original fish tacos all day.

2

Parking is ample and free at this location.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean dining area and restrooms.

04
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Space is extremely narrow with limited seating, mostly standing room and a small counter. Atmosphere feels crowded and lively, with Mexican music playing and customers often brushing shoulders. Guests can watch homemade tortillas being prepared and enjoy a serve-yourself salsa bar.

Tacos stand out with Al Pastor and shrimp options that many find unmatched. Burritos, especially the California style, come highly praised for their flavor and quality.

Salsa options cover all spice levels, with a chunky habaรฑero standing out. The extra hot red salsa in closed cups offers a strong kick.

People are saying

"These tacos are worth the wait; they're the best in San Diego."

"I found the salsas to be incredibly flavorful and fresh."

Good to know

1

The Taco Stand operates as an order-and-go type place with no seating available.

2

Parking can be challenging at The Taco Stand.

3

I recommend ordering ahead because they get busy.

05
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Mexican restaurant offers free chips and salsa bar with wide menu options including dishes not usually found nearby. Seating is limited and no-frills, with a casual atmosphere. Food features large portions and fresh salsas, attracting those seeking hearty, flavorful meals.

Carne asada stands out as a highlight, paired with fresh salsa that complements dishes well. Burritos like the salsa verde pork and chile relleno are well stuffed and flavorful, while tacos and chilaquiles offer authentic Mexican tastes.

Salsas here taste fresh and come in several varieties. A free chips and salsa bar is available, and the family staff offers plenty of recommendations.

People are saying

"You have to try their Mexican food; the burritos are outstanding."

"The salsa here is legit fresh."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes not typically found in local Mexican restaurants.

2

The portion sizes of the dishes are generous.

3

The pricing is considered good for the quality of food offered.

06
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Restaurant offers airport runway views with planes taking off and landing visible from inside. Atmosphere blends Mexican culture with airplane decor, creating a unique and lively vibe. Separate bar area features big screens for sports, attracting groups and company gatherings.

Carne asada burrito and fish tacos stand out with strong, authentic flavors. Flour tortillas and mole have rich textures and deep seasoning, making the Mexican food here genuinely satisfying.

Chips come with spicy salsa that stands out for its flavor. Both chips and salsa are consistently described as excellent and incredible.

People are saying

"I love the Mexican food here; the view of planes is amazing."

"The chips and salsa here are really great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 pm to 9 pm with various drink specials.

2

Daily specials are available throughout the week, offering great value.

3

The restaurant is located on the second floor of Montgomery Airport.

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Covered patio and interior blend earth tones with tropical vibes creating a calm, inviting atmosphere. Salsa bar offers homemade sauces and chips made from scratch. Food features authentic Mexican dishes with generous portions and fresh tortillas soaking up rich flavors.

Fresh tortillas soak up juices well and homemade tortilla chips come from scratch. A salsa bar offers in-house salsas alongside fresh Jamaica and horchata. Large portions like carnitas and dishes such as carne asada fries and rolled tacos stand out.

A salsa bar offers fresh options like carrots, jalapeรฑos, and onions alongside free chips. All salsas are made in-house, paired with refreshing aguas frescas such as Jamaica and horchata.

People are saying

"I thought the carnitas were some of the best Mexican food I've had."

"I loved their in-house salsa bar with fresh carrots and jalapeรฑos."

Good to know

1

Brunch is available on Saturdays.

2

The restaurant opens at 6 am.

3

There is a nice-sized parking lot.

08
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Small Mexican restaurant offers large portions with affordable prices and fresh tortillas. Atmosphere gets crowded during lunch hours, with limited parking nearby. Known for flavorful carne asada and spicy red salsa.

Breakfast burritos here are large and hearty, using real potatoes instead of fries. Tacos come with a chunky mild salsa full of tomato, onion, and cilantro. Chilaquiles stand out as very good and well-prepared.

Chunky mild salsa once features noticeable pieces of tomato, onion, and cilantro but now turns watery and tasteless. Spicy red salsa remains actually spicy and delicious.

People are saying

"I had the best breakfast burrito ever; it was huge!"

"I loved their tasty, chunky mild salsa with noticeable tomato and cilantro."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tight during dinner hours; consider street parking or back lot.

2

Prices are affordable, with large portions offered at a fair price.

3

They serve breakfast all day, making it a versatile dining option.

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Mexican restaurant with an extensive menu offers authentic dishes like carne asada burritos and fresh salsa. Atmosphere feels clean and casual but could benefit from updates. Popular during lunch hour, it draws those seeking reasonably priced meals with generous portions.

Wild Burrito stands out with its stacked meat and a soft yet crispy homemade tortilla. Carne asada burritos, rolled tacos, and street tacos come with a tasty green salsa that complements the authentic flavors.

Freshness stands out with both green salsa and red salsa options. The salsas pair well with dishes like fish tacos and burritos, enhancing their flavors.

People are saying

"The salsa here is so fresh and really good."

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

Good to know

1

Prices for meals are generally around $12.

2

The restaurant is easily accessible off Highway 15.

3

Parking can be tricky due to unusual traffic flow.

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Mexican restaurant with colorful interior featuring cactus-themed wallpaper and cowboy hat decorations offers a casual, welcoming atmosphere. Seating includes covered outdoor patio and ample indoor space, complemented by a self-serve salsa bar. Drive-thru service adds convenience to the experience.

Birria tacos stand out with juicy beef and crispy tortillas served with rich broth for dipping. The menu offers an extensive selection of authentic dishes including handmade tortillas, California burritos with crispy fries, and a variety of flavorful salsas like green chili and orange salsa.

An amazing salsa bar offers about seven different salsas, from mild to very spicy. The medium chunky salsa and green chili and orange salsas stand out with perfect flavors.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here has amazing flavors and perfect meat."

"I tried four different salsas, all of which were delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $7 for each taco, which is on the higher side.

2

The restaurant offers generous portions, especially for tacos.

3

Combo prices range from $10 to $20, which is reasonable for the area.

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Kearny Mesa, San Diego

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