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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in San Jose

Seafood and salsa

Seafood and salsa that highlight the freshness of the ingredients rather than masking them with heavy heat.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Carlitos’ Tijuana Grill image 1
Carlitos’ Tijuana Grill image 2
Carlitos’ Tijuana Grill image 3
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Mexican restaurant

Mexican-themed decor and a salsa bar with many options create a lively and inviting atmosphere. Music, including DJ sets, adds energy while maintaining a family-friendly vibe. Freshly made tortillas and authentic Baja-style tacos stand out as key features.

Shrimp and fish tacos stand out with fresh tilapia and chipotle mayo that adds a nice kick. The birria and quesabirria dishes bring bold, flavorful profiles that don't need extra sauces.

A salsa bar offers many options with a focus on spicy salsas. The salsa tastes very fresh and pairs well with light, flavorful chips.

People are saying

"This Mexican food tastes like Tijuana, it's so authentic."

"The seafood tacos here are fresh and flavorful."

"The salsa here is so fresh and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, they offer a buy 3, get 1 free deal.

2

Parking is available in the corner store plaza.

3

The tortillas are made in house.

02
Luna del Mar Restaurant image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small, clean seafood restaurant with family-friendly atmosphere and lively karaoke. Decor mixes modern simplicity with cheerful touches like smiling flowers. Music varies from perfect to loud, creating a welcoming yet energetic vibe.

Fresh seafood shines with tender, juicy fish and shrimp. Dishes like grilled fish tacos and shrimp cocktail offer delicate, melt-in-your-mouth flavors with a homemade touch.

Salsas come homemade and flavorful, with a perfectly spiced base and an option for a spicy salsa on request. They pair well with chips and tacos, enhancing the overall taste.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The Mexican food's sauces are perfectly balanced and the ingredients taste so fresh."

"The salsa here is spiced perfectly, with a great homemade flavor."

Good to know

1

Karaoke starts at 6:30 pm, available in Spanish or English.

2

Reservations are recommended for busy nights, especially during karaoke.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere during karaoke nights.

03
Mar Y Sol Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Colorful, clean interior with bright decor and window seating creates a cheerful vibe. Loud music and large screens show sports, attracting a lively crowd. Tables feature multiple hot sauces, enhancing the authentic Mexican dining experience.

Shrimp tacos stand out with a large amount of shrimp and a flavorful salsa. Fish tacos and shrimp burritos also feature fresh, generous seafood portions that define the menu.

Chips come with flavorful salsa and Mexican style chili oil. Homemade salsa appears on dishes like tostadas and shrimp tacos. Free chips and salsa options accompany some meals.

People are saying

"The service here is so warm and welcoming, they always ensure you have chips and salsa."

"This burrito is stuffed with generous amounts of meat and beans."

"I loved the seafood tacos, especially the shrimp."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the rear lot.

2

Reservations are allowed for private parties and events.

3

The restaurant specializes in seafood with over one hundred dishes.

04
Araujo's Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Large, modern space with an open kitchen and spacious seating creates a clean, welcoming atmosphere. Big-screen TVs and a generous salsa bar cater to sports fans and spice lovers. A dog-friendly patio adds to the relaxed vibe.

Crispy shrimp tacos come with an amazing orange sauce that stands out. The molcajete packs in seasoned meat, shrimp, and veggies for a hearty meal.

A salsa bar offers many choices including a spicy habanero salsa that sneaks up on you. The avocado salsa stands out as a signature, creamy and flavorful.

People are saying

"The salsa bar had a great selection, especially the spicy habanero."

"You can really taste the difference because the tortillas are handmade fresh."

"I loved the crispy shrimp tacos; they were so yummy."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging at this location, but free garage parking is available nearby.

2

A 20% service charge is automatically added to all dining bills.

3

The restaurant opens early at 9 am, which is convenient for breakfast.

05
Agua Salada (Contemporary Mexican Seafood) image 1

Outdoor setting shaded by tents creates a casual atmosphere reminiscent of Mexican beachside spots. Live Banda and corridos music energizes the space alongside a top-tier bar serving drinks like Micheladas and margaritas. Beautiful decor and a small, intimate layout enhance the authentic vibe.

Seafood here is fresh and authentic, with a great selection including a generous seafood tower and double-sized fish tacos mainly filled with fish. Dishes like aguachile and spicy shrimp ribs stand out for their bold flavors.

Homemade salsas bring a super spicy kick and balanced heat. Chips come with tasty house-made salsa and a flavorful Chipotle sauce.

People are saying

"The seafood here is delicious, especially the shrimp tacos."

"The ceviche here is so fresh and seasoned to perfection."

"I found the house-made salsa to be perfectly balanced and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is cash-only, which was not communicated prior to ordering.

2

There is ample parking available, including shaded options.

3

Portions are generous and larger than expected for seafood.

06
Tacos La Morenita image 1
Mexican restaurant

Taco truck offers authentic Mexican tacos with a variety of meat options and flavorful salsas. No seating is available, creating a quick, casual atmosphere focused on takeout. The menu appears in Spanish, reflecting a genuine Mexican culinary experience.

Shrimp dishes stand out with the Shrimp a la diabla and Shrimp Burrito offering bold flavors. Fish tacos and the Birria Noodles add variety to the seafood options.

Salsas here stand out for their flavor variety and quality. Chips do not come automatically, and salsa portions require asking for more to accompany tacos.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing."

"The Mexican food here is so flavorful, especially the tacos."

"I believed their super Nachos couldn't go wrong."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during lunch hours, especially on weekdays.

2

Online orders incur a $2 fee and do not provide itemized receipts.

3

The menu is only in Spanish, so familiarity with it is helpful.

07
Lopez Taqueria 2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating on a sunny patio creates a casual, breezy atmosphere with a welcoming, family-like vibe. Indoor space feels small and sparse, while the quiet street adds to the calm setting. The place offers a wide variety of authentic Mexican food in a clean environment.

Fish tacos come with crispy battered fish and fresh, flavorful slices of avocado. Shrimp tacos have no fishy smell and taste great. The Michelada rimmed with shrimp combines a shrimp cocktail and Michelada in one.

Salsas come with a noticeable charred veggie flavor and fresh taste. The green salsa is mild, while the red salsa is slightly spicier but not overwhelming. Free chips and salsa accompany some dishes.

People are saying

"The lengua tacos here are tender and flavorful."

"The fish tacos are fresh, flavorful, and delicious."

"The green and red salsas here are a must-try."

Good to know

1

Ordering and paying happens before sitting down; no reservations needed.

2

The restaurant offers all-day breakfast options.

3

There is plenty of seating available both inside and outside.

08
Mariscos Costa Alegre image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor dining under a large tent creates a Mexico-by-the-sea vibe with vibrant colors and festive decor. Live mariachi music fills the space, often loud enough to dominate conversations. The atmosphere buzzes with energetic, lively spirit centered on authentic Mexican seafood.

Shrimp soups and brazier tacos stand out with bold flavors. Fish soup, tacos, and micheladas complement a menu focused on authentic Mexican seafood.

Salsa macha stands out with its bold flavor. Chips and salsa served before meals are very good, though some salsas, like on the asada taco, come off as just okay.

People are saying

"The seafood here is delicious and incredibly flavorful."

"The staff here makes this Lunch Spot so friendly and attentive."

"The salsa macha here was out of this world!"

Good to know

1

Arrive before noon on sunny days to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect over 30 minutes wait to be seated on weekends.

3

Parking can be difficult to find in the area.

09
Taqueria Eduardo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Huge dining area with several TVs showing soccer games creates a lively, casual vibe. The place stays busy, attracting people who appreciate authentic Mexican flavors and unlimited salsas. Seating is ample, making it suitable for quick bites or relaxed meals.

Fish tacos stand out with great taste and value. The menu also features fish and shrimp ceviche tostadas that add variety to the seafood options.

Unlimited salsa options include green and red salsas and a liquid Guacamole salsa instead of sliced avocado. The salsa bar stays fully stocked with delicious and spicy choices.

People are saying

"I thought the super burrito was the best item on the menu."

"I thought the tripa tacos were crispy, salty, and delicious."

"I found the fish tacos to be out of this world."

Good to know

1

Daily specials are available from Monday to Friday between 11am and 3pm.

2

Parking is available in the back of the restaurant.

3

The total cost for two burritos and chips is around $32.

10
La Chingada Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with colorful murals and both indoor and outdoor seating creates a chill atmosphere with romantic salsa and ranchero music. Fresh tortillas are made by hand outside, adding to the authentic vibe. A salsa bar and fresh chips complement the food offerings.

Shrimp stands out in several dishes like the shrimp burrito and shrimp in garlic sauce. The menu also features a pineapple seafood mix, fish tacos, and a filling shrimp and octopus cocktail.

Freshly made salsas come in several varieties including a spicy habanero sauce and a classic red chunky salsa. Free chips accompany the salsas, which pair well with the food, and a roasted salsa appears on weekends.

People are saying

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

"The salsa bar here is fresh and flavorful."

"I found the shrimp burrito to die for."

Good to know

1

Take-out is the primary service option; dining in may be limited.

2

Prices range from $10 to $30 depending on the meal and portion size.

3

Vegetarian options are available on the menu.

11
Cali Spartan Mexican Kitchen image 1

Spacious interior with floor-to-ceiling windows creates a pleasant atmosphere that feels inviting and lively. A self-serve condiments bar adds convenience and complements the food experience. Music tends to be loud, making conversation challenging during busy times.

Shrimp dishes like the shrimp cocktail and shrimp micheladas stand out for their flavor. Fish and shrimp come tender, featured in items like the little mermaid burrito and seafood platters suited for groups.

Salsas here are flavorful with a standout mango salsa. Veggie options and guacamole pair well with the chips for a solid combo.

People are saying

"I thought the quesadillas were the best in town."

"The salsas here are flavorful and great."

"The shrimp and fish in the seafood burrito were so tender."

Good to know

1

The restaurant accepts cash only, so plan accordingly.

2

Parking is ample and easy to find in the strip mall.

3

The restaurant closes later than most places, making it a good late-night option.

12
ASI Mexican Fusion Bistro image 1
Mexican restaurant

Old fast-food building hosts a Mexican and Middle Eastern fusion with a warm, inviting atmosphere and multiple large TVs showing sports. The space features deep blue walls and a lively yet comfortable vibe with good table spacing. Music and muted TVs add to the relaxed environment.

Shrimp dishes stand out with generous portions and perfect seasoning. Fish and shrimp tacos deliver bold, messy flavors that feel authentic and satisfying.

Complimentary chips come with tamarillo salsa and hummus. Pita and tortilla chips pair well with these flavorful dips.

People are saying

"I loved the fusion of Mexican and Palestinian food here."

"The chips with hummus and salsa were really good."

"The shrimp fajitas were exceptional."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features $2 street tacos, making it a popular choice.

2

Happy hour offers discounted beer and sangria pitchers during weekdays.

3

The restaurant serves Halal food, catering to specific dietary needs.

13
Mama Lupita's Seafood & Mexican Cocina & cantina . image 1

Mexican restaurant with vibrant decor and a covered patio offers a lively atmosphere that peaks during karaoke nights and NFL games. Generous pours of margaritas complement authentic dishes like crispy tacos and veggie quesadillas. Music volume can be high, adding to the energetic vibe.

Shrimp dishes stand out with bacon wrapped shrimp and scrumptious shrimp options. The menu offers a full variety of meat and seafood including chicharrón and carne asada.

Crunchy tortilla chips come with a salsa bursting with fresh flavors. Chips and salsa arrive complimentary and serve as a perfect appetizer to start the meal.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was great and delicious."

"The authentic Mexican food here tastes like home."

"Their chips and salsa are a tasty way to start your meal."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays offer tacos for $1.50 with five meat choices.

2

Karaoke night happens on Tuesdays, providing a fun atmosphere.

3

Happy hour features a buy-one-get-one combo plate promotion.

14
El Cabron Kitchen & Cantina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with vibrant decor and live DJ music creates a lively atmosphere that opens up for dancing in the evenings. The space features artwork and open windows that evoke a Mexican feel, attracting groups celebrating various occasions.

Shrimp stands out with dishes like fondito with shrimp and diablo shrimp delivering fast and flavorful bites. Guacamole with shrimp adds a nice twist, though it could use a bit more salt.

Salsas come with roasted jalapeños, cactus, and corn, adding a fresh, spicy kick. Chips and salsa serve as a solid starter alongside dishes like nachos and carne asada on a cutting board.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and super tasty."

"The diablo shrimp was freaking amazing."

"The chips and salsa here are good."

Good to know

1

After 9pm, the place turns into a dance club.

2

Live music happens on Friday nights.

3

The kitchen closes after 12 am and the bar at 1:30 am.

15
Taqueria El Abuelo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy Mexican restaurant with a self-serve chips and salsa bar featuring fresh chips and varied spicy salsas. Atmosphere suits casual catch-ups with a large menu including a wide vegetarian selection. Popular for classic tacos and asada fries, it draws steady local interest and delivery orders.

Freshness stands out with big shrimp featured in dishes like shrimp cocktail, tacos, and burritos. The shrimp "a la diabla" offers a spicy option but may not appeal to everyone.

A free salsa bar offers a variety of salsas with many spicy options and fresh chips. The orange salsa stands out, and Pico de Gallo is available but not at the salsa bar.

People are saying

"The salsa bar here is excellent with lots of variety."

"I found the pastor taco really hard to beat."

"The seafood here is fresh and the shrimp is big."

Good to know

1

Most dishes are displayed as pictures on the wall, easing the language barrier.

2

The restaurant offers a large vegetarian menu for those who don't eat meat.

3

Free chips are provided with each meal.

16
Araujo's Mexican Grill - El Paisa Taqueria image 1

Open salsa bar offers variety of spicy sauces alongside handmade corn tortillas. Lively atmosphere with large TV screens showing sports, especially soccer, creates a noisy environment. Seating resembles fast food style furniture with more walking space than typical fast food joints.

Shrimp dishes include shrimp tacos and a super shrimp burrito. The tacos come with shrimp hidden under cabbage and are well-liked. The burrito contains only four small shrimp that are fried and hard rather than grilled.

An open salsa bar offers five different kinds with a perfectly spicy range. Highlights include salsa ranchera, habanero salsa, and a fresh avocado salsa.

People are saying

"You have to try their super burrito; it's the best."

"The salsa bar here is awesome with so many delicious options."

"The shrimp tacos and burritos here are really good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is under new management and offers better food than before.

2

The restaurant is open late, making it convenient for late-night diners.

3

Expect to pay $4.50 for a single taco, which is considered pricey.

17
Una Mas Mexican Grill San Jose image 1

Mexican restaurant with lively atmosphere and generous servings draws crowds during peak hours despite limited parking. Food features flavorful dishes like carne asada fries and fresh fish burritos, complemented by fresh salsas and hot sauces. Seating can feel sticky and musty, reflecting a casual, bustling environment.

Grilled fish appears fresh and cooked to order in the fish burrito and fish tacos. The tacos come with shredded cabbage and a chipotle sauce that adds flavor. A dark red salsa pairs well with the burrito.

Salsa comes in generous servings with a spicy kick that pairs well with dishes like the fish burrito. Freshness stands out, though salsa is now served in single-serving cups rather than at a salsa bar.

People are saying

"The crispy taco salad is super flavorful and delicious."

"The fish tacos are my favorite, especially with chipotle sauce."

"The salsa here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

The place gets packed during peak hours, expect longer wait times.

3

The price of the grilled veggie burrito increased by about 33%.

18
Maza Mexican Restaurant image 1
Seafood restaurant

Entrance through an alley leads to a beautiful outdoor garden with covered seating and heaters. Atmosphere feels relaxing and aesthetic with music enhancing the vibe. Space welcomes dogs and suits parties well.

Sinaloa-style seafood shines with dishes like aguachiles, ceviche, and sushi. Shrimp tacos, bacon wrapped shrimp, and fish cracklings stand out alongside a hearty seafood parrillada that feeds four.

Complimentary chips come with smooth green salsa that stands out as a favorite. Salsa pairs well with tacos and empanadas, adding fresh flavor to the meal.

People are saying

"The seafood here is super fresh and flavorful."

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is pretty good."

"The beef taco was pretty good, rating about 9 out of 10."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 2 PM and offers discounted drinks.

2

Taco Tuesday features $1 tacos all day with any drink purchase.

3

Parking can be challenging; arrive early to find a spot.

19
Taqueria Lorena's image 1
Mexican restaurant

Old school seating contrasts with a clean, modern order area in this laid back Mexican spot. Families and kids create a friendly neighborhood vibe, while high-quality meats define the food. Limited decor and later hours add to its straightforward, practical feel.

Shrimp tacos and shrimp burritos stand out with strong flavors. Grilled fish tacos and shrimp grande tacos also feature prominently on the menu.

Green and red salsas stand out, with the salsa roja used frequently on food. The red salsa draws some complaints, but the variety includes a notable yellow chili seed detail on the meat.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were the best Mexican food in the area."

"The super burritos here are delicious, especially with the spicy carrots."

"The carne asada had a really good flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, but street parking is also available.

2

You will need a key to use the restrooms, available upfront.

3

They open late until 11pm for late-night diners.

20
Taqueria Tlaquepaque image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a huge dining area with warm, inviting atmosphere and loud echoes that suit lively conversations. The space feels friendly and spacious, creating room to breathe despite the noise. Authentic flavors attract enthusiasts who appreciate excellent street tacos and frosty beers.

Shrimp dishes stand out with big crunchy shrimps in fajitas and a spicy Shrimp a la Diabla. Corn tortillas, fried potatoes, beans, and rice often accompany the seafood options.

Fresh, crunchy chips come with refills and a thick salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. The salsa has the right amount of heat and plenty of flavor.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is fantastic, especially the chips and salsa."

"I found the enchiladas here to be fantastic."

"The salsa here is thick, fresh, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is convenient with street parking nearby and a lot behind the restaurant.

2

The restaurant only accepts cash, so plan accordingly.

3

Expect large portions; many diners leave with leftovers.

21
El Jalapeno Rojo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant offers drive-thru service and outdoor shaded seating with no indoor dining. Atmosphere stays warm and respectful, creating a chill vibe for quick, affordable meals. Known for authentic, fresh ingredients and vegetarian options in every category.

Fish tacos stand out with creamy spicy sauce and sharp flavors. Garlic shrimp plates offer a solid seafood option alongside quesadillas and veggie sopes.

Salsas come in red and green varieties with a good salsa Rojo standing out. They pair well with dishes like carne asada burritos.

People are saying

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

"The salsas here are very good and offer a fresh, spicy hit."

"You have to try the fish taco; the creamy spicy sauce is amazing."

Good to know

1

The burritos cost less than $12.

2

Parking is limited to 2 or 3 cars only.

3

They charge a fee for paying with a credit card.

22
Con Sabor a México image 1
Taco restaurant

Outdoor setup with colorful traditional decor and covered seating creates a casual, lively vibe. Pool tables and cornhole add playful energy alongside relaxing music. The atmosphere feels authentic and inviting, like visiting a neighborhood gathering spot.

Shrimp Baja tacos stand out with bold flavors and a spicy sauce that enhances the taste. Some shrimp can be rubbery, but the birria shrimp taco pairs well with consomé for a satisfying combo.

The salsa offers an orange spicy kick that balances the beef's richness well. Mixing the consomé with the salsa creates a game-changing dipping sauce that enhances the flavor.

People are saying

"You have to try the Mexican food here; the quesabirria tacos are excellent."

"The birria tacos here are gigantic and delicious."

"The birria shrimp taco was gigantic and sensational."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

They only accept cards or mobile payments; no cash is accepted.

3

Expect long wait times, especially on weekends.

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