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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of La Jolla

Kid-friendly Mexican food

You want a meal that satisfies everyone at the table without sacrificing the authentic Mexican food you actually crave.

Based on 653 Opinions
+650
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Updated May 2026
01
Fresheria image 1
Fresheria image 2
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Health food restaurant

Small, cozy cafรฉ with laid-back beachy vibe and broad menu featuring healthy, flavorful options including vegetarian and vegan dishes. Seating includes metal chairs indoors and outdoor tables, though outdoor seating can be unstable. Offers outlets and wifi for working in a casual setting.

Kids enjoy the large Nutella French toast that can easily serve two. The Acai bowl stands out as a favorite for both kids and adults.

Baja Bowl delivers a flavor explosion with quinoa, black beans, grilled chicken, avocado, pico de gallo, and lime vinaigrette. Tacos, especially the cauliflower ones, stand out as a game-changer, while the Tinga Torta packs lots of flavor and fresh lettuce.

People are saying

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

"The Mexican food here is fresh, flavorful, and packed with texture."

"The portions here are large, perfect for sharing."

Good to know

1

Fresheria offers an extensive menu with breakfast and lunch options.

2

The prices are reasonable, especially for the large portion sizes.

3

Expect a variety of vegetarian and vegan options on the menu.

02
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.

Free video games keep kids entertained. The menu includes Nacho plate and Chicken fingers that kids enjoy. A Monday promotion lets kids eat free.

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

People are saying

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

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

"The kids loved the food, especially the chicken fingers."

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.

03
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.

Kids enjoy the fish tacos and the kids catch menu. The salmon kids meal includes rice and beans and is filling enough to finish quickly. Staff notice kids and ensure seating is ready.

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.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The fish tacos here are huge and delicious."

"The fish tacos here are delicious and a great option for kids."

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.

04
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.

Kids enjoy the queso here. The spot works well for families, though the slow service can be tricky with little ones.

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.

People are saying

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

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

"The queso is so good, kids loved it!"

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.

05
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.

Kids enjoy fresh chicken strips and a hotdog praised as the best they've had. A well-behaved golden retriever adds to the friendly atmosphere, and vegetarian options satisfy different tastes.

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.

People are saying

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

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

"The food here is so Kid Friendly, even picky eaters loved it."

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.

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.

Accommodates large groups with kids easily, even on busy days. Offers a kids menu with several good options that kids enjoy.

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.

People are saying

"I loved their amazing craft beer selection."

"The fish tacos here are amazing."

"The kids' meals were a hit, even if service was a bit disorganized."

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
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.

Service and food show friendliness to kids and pets. Children's pasta with meatball exists but lacks flavor.

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.

People are saying

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

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

"It's a really kid-friendly place; my one-year-old loved it."

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.

08
DODO BIRD Donuts image 1

Donut shop with green-toned walls and round tables offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere is trendy and cool with a stylish bar counter adding to the vibe. Donuts feature unique flavors and cute designs, creating a fun and pleasant environment.

Cinnamon sugar donut holes appeal to kids but the donuts cost about eight dollars for two. Some kids may not finish the donuts, showing they might not be very satisfying.

Breakfast burritos come with a notable green salsa that pairs well and adds unique flavor. The newer red salsa lacks that distinct taste and does not complement the burrito as effectively.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee and lattes here were outstanding."

"The breakfast burrito here is surprisingly awesome."

"The donuts here are yummy and Kid Friendly."

Good to know

1

Arrive before 11:30 am to have a chance at fresh donuts.

2

Expect limited donut availability, especially on weekends.

3

Prices are high, with sandwiches costing around $15.

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La Jolla, San Diego

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