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New Yorkers 1st Choice
La Jolla's best

Mexican food fish spots

A plate of fish prepared with Mexican flavors is a reliable craving to satisfy.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
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Updated April 2026
01
Taco Time Cantina image 1
Taco Time Cantina image 2
Taco Time Cantina image 3
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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.

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.

Fish tacos come with perfectly cooked, fresh fish and a nicely seasoned batter. Options include Baja style and fish burritos made to order, all at a very reasonable price.

People are saying

"The salsa bar is fantastic, with so many tasty options."

"The Mexican food here is bursting with flavor and generously filled."

"The fish tacos are fried to perfection and absolutely delicious."

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.

02
La Jollita image 1
Restaurant

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.

Beef taco and surf & turf taco stand out as flavorful options. Homemade tortillas and salsa add an authentic touch to the meal.

Zarandeado fish comes out cooked perfectly with a smoky flavor. The whole fish and surf and turf taco pair well with famous beans.

People are saying

"The food here is super fresh and high quality."

"The fish zarandeado was cooked perfectly and tasted amazing."

"The Mexican food here is super fresh and delicious."

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.

03
Don Carlos Taco Shopึ‰ image 1
Mexican restaurant

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.

Burritos stand out here, especially the Clairemont and California styles, both packed and flavorful. Fish tacos and shrimp burritos also deliver authentic, delicious Mexican flavors with generous portions.

Huge fish tacos come with an amazing sauce that adds great flavor. The menu includes grilled fish soft tacos that stand out for their tasty and generous portions.

People are saying

"I thought this burrito was the best I had ever tasted."

"I've never had Mexican food tacos this good before."

"The fish tacos here are huge 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.

04
Beeside Balcony La Jolla image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Open-air Mediterranean restaurant offers breathtaking ocean views and an elevated patio that reduces street noise. Live music sets a classy beach town vibe with a vibrant atmosphere that feels both lively and welcoming.

Rockfish tacos stand out as a favorite, often described as terrific and tasty. Other highlights include shrimp tacos, Octopus ceviche, and grilled feta cheese sandwiches, all noted for strong flavors.

Fresh fish shines in the whole grilled branzino and rock fish tacos. Fish dishes come with unique touches like slate plates for fish and chips.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots was spectacular and did not disappoint."

"The fish tacos and seafood stew here are amazing."

"The whole branzino fish is perfectly cooked and a must-try."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great prices on drinks and appetizers.

2

The happy hour menu is available upon request from the staff.

3

Parking is generally easy, but can be difficult during peak hours.

05
La Corriente La Jolla image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space blends French cafรฉ and beach bungalow styles with beautiful decor and terrace seating. Atmosphere stays laid back and soothing, ideal for conversation. Guests enjoy authentic Mexican flavors and warm hospitality.

Tacos stand out with the soft shell crab taco offering a unique twist that changes expectations. Fresh fish caught that morning pairs well with spicy salsa that delivers a perfect homemade kick.

Fish dishes highlight freshness caught that morning and perfect preparation. The fish tacos, tostadas, and ceviche stand out with clean, ocean flavors and homemade salsas that add a nice kick.

People are saying

"I've never had a fresher, crispier fish taco."

"I thought the fish tacos were the freshest and crispiest."

"I've never had a fish taco this fresh and crispy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour ends promptly at 6pm; order before then to get the discount.

2

The restaurant has limited seating, so expect a wait during peak hours.

3

Parking is not available; consider alternative transportation options.

06
Public House La Jolla image 1
American restaurant

Cozy converted building with indoor and outdoor seating including a heated shaded patio creates a homey vibe. Numerous sports screens and live music add casual energy. The atmosphere feels low-energy and relaxed, attracting those who enjoy a quiet spot for drinks and games.

Fish tacos stand out with fresh, high-quality ingredients and excellent flavor. The vegan taco offers a substantial, delicious alternative alongside other Mexican dishes like fish and chips.

Fish tacos come with lemon pepper aioli and chipotle aioli that add bold flavors. Fish and chips taste delicious and pair well with these sauces.

People are saying

"I loved their amazing craft beer selection."

"The fish tacos here are amazing."

"I found the fish and chips to be very good."

Good to know

1

Half-off burgers are available on Tuesdays.

2

Happy hour offers daily specials, including half-price sliders.

3

Parking is plentiful near the restaurant.

07
Raymundo's Taco Shop image 1
Mexican restaurant

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.

Fish tacos stand out with perfectly fried fish and awesome Baja sauce. Burritos, especially the California breakfast burrito, come huge and packed with quality ingredients at affordable prices.

Fish tacos feature perfectly fried fish with battered coating and come with Baja sauce and green salsa. The fish burrito offers a unique twist with well-seasoned fish and rice.

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be delicious and authentic."

"The fish tacos here are awesome and delicious."

"I found the fish tacos to be delicious."

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.

08
El Pescador Fish Market image 1

Fish market and restaurant combine with fresh seafood display behind a glass counter. Outdoor patio lined with cacti offers a relaxed coastal vibe and spacious seating options. The atmosphere feels buzzy and inviting, drawing people who appreciate fresh fish and casual dining.

Fresh fish serves as the base for tacos, burritos, and sandwiches with options like yellowtail tuna and shrimp. The fish tacos stand out for their freshness and flavor, and combo plates include fresh shrimp tacos. Burritos cost around $25 before tip.

Fresh fish arrives daily, making the quality consistently high. Signature items include a fish sandwich and a fish burrito praised for their flavor and freshness.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The fish here is so fresh and delicious."

"The fish tacos here are huge and delicious."

Good to know

1

El Pescador Fish Market operates on a first come, first serve basis; no reservations accepted.

2

Expect long lines on Saturday afternoons, especially during peak hours.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early to secure a spot.

09
Don Bravo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant offers a family atmosphere with nostalgic cantina vibes and a lively, crowded energy. Outdoor patio provides wonderful ocean views that complement the relaxed setting. A salsa bar and food truck add to the casual, authentic experience.

Fish tacos stand out with fresh, stuffed meat and a tasty habanero salsa. Burritos come in large portions and churros are fried perfectly for dessert.

Lightly fried fish tacos stand out with their crispy texture and fresh flavor. They come at a budget-friendly price, often under $10 for two tacos and a drink.

People are saying

"The patio has a nice ocean view, especially at sunset."

"I found the fish tacos here to be amazing."

"You have to try the fish tacos; they're amazing."

Good to know

1

Street tacos cost $3 each.

2

A regular breakfast burrito costs $11.99, with extra charges for substitutions.

3

The two fish tacos and a drink cost under $10.

10
Nautilus Tavern image 1
American restaurant

Small American restaurant with outdoor seating and a friendly, relaxed vibe. Live music and a DJ create a lively atmosphere in the evenings, while multiple TVs show sports. The place is dog friendly and offers free video games for kids.

Fish tacos feature fried mahi mahi with fresh ingredients. Nachos and tacos taste fresh and delicious. The churro waffle serves as a sweet finish.

Fish tacos come out fantastic with fresh, hot ingredients. The fish sandwich stands out as exceptionally flavorful and large. Fish dishes like fish and chips arrive hot and in generous portions.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and flavorful."

"The fish tacos and ceviche here are so fresh and flavorful."

"The fish tacos here were fantastic."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs every day with half-price appetizers.

2

Trivia night occurs every Thursday with a $5 entry fee.

3

Free parking is available in the garage downstairs.

11
Verdes El Ranchero image 1
Mexican restaurant

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.

Authentic Mexican flavors shine through dishes like flautas, chimichanga, and northern-style enchiladas with good salsa. The menu includes plant-based options and standout items like the beer battered fish taco on a homemade flour tortilla, complemented by excellent margaritas.

Fish dishes feature a beer battered fish taco served on a homemade flour tortilla and a fish torta known for its bold flavors.

People are saying

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

"The Mexican Food here is great, especially the margaritas."

"You have to try the beer battered fish taco."

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.

12
The Spot La Jolla image 1

Bar and grill with ocean views and an indoor-outdoor second story creates a lively, cozy atmosphere. Outdoor seating is dog friendly and popular, while multiple sports TVs show several games simultaneously. The place fills up and gets loud, especially later in the evening.

Fish tacos stand out with fried Mahi Mahi and blackened options that are flavorful and well-prepared. The chicken fingers and jambalaya also offer tasty variety alongside the excellent tacos.

Fried fish tacos stand out with a blackened, flavorful taste. The fish and chips feature a crispy, delicious batter, and the Mahi Mahi tacos offer a satisfying fried option.

People are saying

"The bar food here is some of the best I've ever had."

"I enjoyed the fish and chips; they were delicious."

"These fish tacos are some of the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking at The Spot can be challenging.

2

They have Trivia Night on Tuesdays.

3

Happy Hour gives $3 off appetizers.

13
Rubio's Coastal Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating offers views of a nearby temple and a coastal breeze enhances the relaxed vibe. The atmosphere feels like fast food but with a friendly and quiet setting. Menu includes healthy options and a small condiment station for customizing sauces and sides.

Burritos stand out with consistent deliciousness and generous size. Tacos offer fresh flavors, especially the fish and seafood options, complemented by a salsa bar with fresh ingredients.

Fish comes deep batter fried with a huge and crispy texture. The original fish tacos offer a complete meal with fresh preparation.

People are saying

"I found the fish tacos here to be a classic and delicious."

"You can't go wrong with their original fish tacos."

"Their fish tacos are huge, crispy, and freshly prepared."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers a great deal for meals with discounted tacos.

2

Expect parking to be challenging, especially during peak hours.

3

Prices for tacos can exceed $10 for two small ones.

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La Jolla, San Diego

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