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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to La Jolla

Authentic seafood

Fresh seafood prepared in a traditional way is the only thing that will do.

Based on 592 Opinions
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01
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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.

Fresh, soft, and flavorful tortillas highlight the authentic Mexican tacos and burritos here. Friendly owners focus on delivering quality, genuine flavors in every dish.

Fish tacos come fried to perfection with high quality ingredients and tasty salsas. Shrimp tacos feature a roasted poblano pepper layer that stands out.

People are saying

"The seafood tacos here are fresh, perfectly cooked, and amazing."

"The authentic tortillas here are made from heirloom corn and taste amazing."

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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Small sushi restaurant with authentic atmosphere and subtle Japanese decor creates a quiet, intimate vibe. Space feels comfortable and unpretentious, with an open front allowing fresh air inside. Fish quality stands out as exceptionally fresh and high-grade.

Sushi here feels truly authentic with a strong focus on Japanese cuisine. The ambiance matches the genuine dining experience.

Fish comes extremely fresh, almost like it was just caught, with high quality cuts like Hon maguro and hamachi. Sushi includes shrimp and uni with innovative sauces and beautiful presentation.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh, it tastes like it was just caught."

"I tasted the freshest, most authentic sushi I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, due to limited seating.

2

Omakase is available Monday through Thursday with 24 hours advance reservations.

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Parking is available nearby, but can be limited during peak hours.

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Indoor and outdoor seating offer a relaxed yet elegant Thai style with patio heaters for comfort. The space features clean lines and inviting decor, including a wooden bench with heart pillows. Atmosphere feels pleasant and well maintained, blending beauty with a calm vibe.

Thai dishes deliver fresh, authentic flavors with a clear emphasis on genuine taste. Spice levels start mild but reach intense heat at 5 and above, catering to those who prefer bold, spicy profiles.

Fish dishes come pre-cut for easy eating and include options like whole fish pad cha and Tom Kha fish. Shrimp Pad see-ew offers a medium spicy level around 3 to 4.

People are saying

"I found the Thai food here to be fresh, delicious, and authentic."

"The seafood here is delicious, especially the whole fish."

Good to know

1

The lunch special offers generous portions at a great price.

2

Vegan and vegetarian options are available on the menu.

3

Happy hour specials for food and drink are offered.

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Outdoor terrace offers a zen-like, relaxing atmosphere reminiscent of a family home, while the indoor space feels dim and cafeteria-like. Counter service supports a casual, affordable dining experience with freshly made tortillas and top-notch beans. The vibe balances simplicity with authentic Mexican flavors in a modest setting.

Tacos here have authentic Mexican flavors and maintain great quality throughout. The food stays true to traditional recipes and tastes.

Fish tacos feature perfectly fried fish with Baja sauce and green salsa that stand out. The fish burrito offers a unique twist, while shrimp tacos are seasoned but less impressive.

People are saying

"I found the fish tacos to be simply to die for."

"The tacos here are authentic and simply to die for."

Good to know

1

There is no restroom available at this taco shop.

2

The prices are surprisingly low for the area, with generous portions.

3

This taco shop offers a limited vegetarian option.

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Small, intimate Italian restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and quiet, friendly vibe. Features a cute patio where dogs are welcome, offering peaceful outdoor seating. Known for top-notch pasta dishes and a romantic, family-oriented setting.

Italian dishes feature authentic flavors and traditional recipes. Chef Seth prepares meals with genuine ingredients that capture true Italian cuisine.

Seafood dishes feature fresh clams, mussels, calamari, and salmon cooked perfectly with sauces that enhance rather than overpower. Options like seafood fettuccine and Seafood Cioppino offer flavorful, well-balanced meals.

People are saying

"I found the Italian food here to be delicious and authentic."

"The seafood pasta dishes were fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Dinner service starts from 4 pm.

2

Bistro Pazzo accommodates large parties, including groups of 11.

3

The restaurant is kid-friendly, making it suitable for families.

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Small, cozy Mexican restaurant with a hole-in-the-wall vibe and laid-back atmosphere. Offers fast, affordable food with outdoor patio seating where people watch happens. Known for flavorful burritos and tacos that stand out in quality and taste.

Food delivers authentic Mexican flavors with simple, well-made dishes. Beans and rice come packed with full flavor that matches home-cooked meals.

Shrimp burritos and fish tacos stand out for their freshness and flavor. The fish tacos are huge and tasty, often paired with an amazing sauce that complements the grilled fish well.

People are saying

"The fish tacos here are huge and delicious."

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

Good to know

1

The wait at Don Carlos Taco Shop is usually short, even during rush hours.

2

There is limited seating available at Don Carlos Taco Shop.

3

Don Carlos Taco Shop offers a variety of menu options, including vegan choices.

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Restaurant offers ocean and beach views with semi-outdoor patio seating that creates a cozy and warm atmosphere. The vibe is laid-back and pet-friendly, attracting those who enjoy relaxing meals with scenic surroundings.

Flavors stay fresh and well-balanced with authentic Thai spices and fresh ingredients. Dishes avoid the overly sweet taste common in Americanized versions, keeping a truly authentic Thai profile.

Seafood dishes feature fresh ingredients with shrimp that comes out perfectly crispy. Fried fish is also crispy and pairs well with fried rice or pineapple fried rice.

People are saying

"The flavors here are bold and authentic, especially the curry."

"The seafood here is so fresh and perfectly crispy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all week long with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Street parking is available, but can be hard to find.

3

Reservations are not required, and seating is often available immediately for lunch.

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Restaurant offers a relaxed beachy vibe with authentic Mexican energy and lively music that keeps noise levels comfortable for conversation. Interior features stunning, detailed decor and a spacious, dog-friendly patio. Atmosphere suits both family outings and date nights, blending cleanliness with uplifting design.

Homemade tortillas and salsa add an extra special touch. The authentic Mexican seafood dishes bring flavors that feel like being in Mexico.

Fresh seafood stands out with real Mexican flavors. The zarandeado fish cooks perfectly, highlighting the quality and care in preparation.

People are saying

"The seafood here is served by attentive and friendly staff."

"The mariscos here taste authentically Mexican, like being in Mexico."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is limited; expect challenges finding street parking nearby.

3

The restaurant has a dog-friendly patio for outdoor dining.

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Mexican restaurant with a cozy bar and relaxed, friendly atmosphere plays classic rock music, creating a Southern California vibe. The space is dark and loud, attracting a lively crowd. Pets are welcome, adding to the casual, inviting feel.

Mexican food here tastes very authentic with dishes matching those found in many traditional spots. The menu avoids non-traditional toppings like red cabbage, keeping flavors true to classic recipes.

Seafood shines in the beer battered fish taco on a homemade flour tortilla and the queso and shrimp tacos. The carne asada with shrimp burrito stands out as well.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be really authentic."

"I considered the shrimp burrito the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Reservations are not required, but the restaurant gets busy quickly.

3

The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating available.

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Outdoor seating offers ocean views with heaters and umbrellas for comfort. The atmosphere is lively and noisy with live guitar music and football highlights playing. Large, dog-friendly bar and fun, colorful vibe attract a diverse crowd.

Tacos, enchiladas, and fajitas come out fresh with authentic Mexican flavors. The food stays simple, tasty, and true to tradition.

Shrimp tacos stand out with rich flavor and are highly praised. Fish tacos come out excellent, and the shrimp ceviche offers plenty of shrimp and good taste. The Shrimp Nachos also get a solid recommendation.

People are saying

"The seafood tacos here are flavorful and really good."

"The food here is simple, fresh, and authentic."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 PM with discounted drinks and snacks.

2

Discounted tacos are available until 7:00 PM.

3

A surcharge fee applies when paying with a credit card.

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Small space with about six booths inside and a few tables outside creates an intimate, cozy atmosphere. Warm lighting and tasteful decor blend traditional Chinese elements with modern style, making it a quiet, vibey spot. Popular and often busy, it draws diners who appreciate consistent quality and generous portions.

Food shows consistent authentic Chinese flavor with care in sourcing ingredients and an approachable menu that stays true to traditional tastes.

Shrimp dishes stand out with options like honey walnut shrimp and ku ting shrimp drawing praise. Seafood fried rice and crispy wontons add variety, though shrimp can sometimes be overcooked.

People are saying

"The food here is so authentic and flavorful."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted due to the small size of the restaurant.

2

Expect to wait for a table during busy dinner hours, especially on weekends.

3

Lunch prices are lower than dinner prices, providing a more affordable option.

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La Jolla, San Diego

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