Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of San Marcos

Food spots

A meal that satisfies your hunger without the usual compromise of poor service or lackluster ingredients.

Based on 751 Opinions
+748
User
User
User
Updated
01
SHABU-WORKS image 1
SHABU-WORKS image 2
SHABU-WORKS image 3
View all

Hot pot spot shines with all-you-can-eat beef belly and self-serve drink bar in a hip, cozy atmosphere. Food stays fresh and looks great, matched by excellent table care. Spacious, modern layout keeps dining fun and friendly.

Food here is consistently fresh and of high quality with great attention to detail in presentation. Service matches the food with excellent table care and smooth waitlist management.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended at least an hour in advance, especially on weekends.

2

Kids eat free on Tuesdays, making it a great family option.

3

Expect to pay dinner prices during holidays, even for lunch visits.

02
Mr. Shawarma San Marcos image 1
Mr. Shawarma San Marcos image 2
Mr. Shawarma San Marcos image 3
View all

Small space with a bright interior offers a clean, casual vibe. Fresh, flavorful dishes highlight Mediterranean cuisine with generous portions. Warm atmosphere and Middle Eastern music create a friendly, joyful setting perfect for casual visits.

Food features fresh, flavorful, and carefully made dishes with generous portions. The menu focuses on Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with consistently great taste and service.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

Come early on Friday to enjoy the BOGO Turkish Kumpir, a loaded baked potato.

2

The wait time for a to-go order is 30 to 40 minutes.

3

The price for two sandwiches is $33, which some consider high.

03
Pho San Marcos image 1
Pho San Marcos image 2
Pho San Marcos image 3
View all

Vietnamese spot shines with fresh pho and high-quality food. Modern décor and bright lighting create a cozy vibe. Multiple big screens show sports, adding lively energy to the welcoming space.

Freshness stands out with pho soup made from the freshest ingredients. Food tastes amazing, clean, and of high quality, paired with attentive service.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

They have lunch and happy hour specials.

2

Expect large portions that are filling and reasonably priced.

3

The restaurant is always clean and well-maintained.

04
Sorrento's Pizza & Italian Restaurant image 1
Sorrento's Pizza & Italian Restaurant image 2
Sorrento's Pizza & Italian Restaurant image 3
View all

Small, old-school Italian spot feels like an Italian friend's kitchen with a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere. Food tastes like grandma made it, using high-quality ingredients for an authentic touch. Quiet, intimate setting creates a family vibe with friendly energy.

Food here tastes like it was made by grandma herself, with high-quality ingredients and a true Italian touch. The dishes offer a unique and joyful dining experience that feels authentic and satisfying.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is authentic and homemade."

Good to know

1

Wednesdays and Thursdays feature chicken parmesan nights with special pricing.

2

They offer a two-person meal special that provides good value.

3

Portions are large, often leading to leftovers.

05
Christophe Rull Patisserie image 1
Christophe Rull Patisserie image 2
Christophe Rull Patisserie image 3
View all

Open, light space with French bistro chairs and outdoor seating creates a quaint, warm atmosphere. Pastries and croissants offer authentic French flavors with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Coffee pairs well with the delicious pastries, making it feel like a small piece of Paris.

Food features authentic French flavors and high-quality ingredients. Coffee pairs well with the delicious pastries.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the croissants."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but arriving early is recommended to avoid sold-out items.

2

The quiche often sells out by 1pm, so get there early if you want to try it.

3

Kouign-amann may sell out early in the day, so arrive early to ensure availability.

06
PizzaBar image 1
PizzaBar image 2
PizzaBar image 3
View all

Pizza slices are thin and crispy, served fresh and hot with great service. Large TVs show sports, creating a lively atmosphere popular with families. Space feels small and hot without air conditioning, but offers a variety of local craft beers at reasonable prices during happy hour.

Food comes out fresh, hot, and tasty with great service. Prices stay reasonable during happy hour.

People are saying

"The pizza here is fresh, hot, and tasty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs on weekdays from 3 to 5:30 PM with $3 slices and half-priced appetizers.

2

Trivia night happens every Wednesday at 7 PM with no entry fee.

3

Parking is accessible, but the lot can fill up quickly during peak hours.

07
Darunee Thai Cuisine image 1
Darunee Thai Cuisine image 2
Darunee Thai Cuisine image 3
View all

Small Thai spot offers authentic home-cooked food with standout Massaman Curry and sticky rice with mango. Quiet, family-owned vibe creates a relaxed dining experience despite the run-down dining area. Perfect for those seeking genuine flavors in a simple setting.

Fresh, authentic Thai food stands out here with generous portions, especially in the lunch specials. The Massaman Curry and sticky rice with mango are notable dishes that highlight the menu's quality.

People are saying

"I thought the Thai food here was the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials offer generous portions at a great price.

2

The restaurant is small, so consider takeout during busy hours.

3

Lunch size portions are available on the dinner menu.

08
Tandoori Guys - San Marcos - Indian Restaurant and Catering image 1
Tandoori Guys - San Marcos - Indian Restaurant and Catering image 2
Tandoori Guys - San Marcos - Indian Restaurant and Catering image 3
View all

Bollywood-themed decor creates a vibrant vibe perfect for groups. Outdoor patio offers a peaceful, shaded space that welcomes pets. Food arrives piping hot with perfectly spiced flavors that stay fresh even after takeout.

Food arrives piping hot and ready to eat. Dishes like the Punjabi special offer perfectly spiced flavors that stay fresh even after takeout.

People are saying

"I had fantastic Indian food with generous portions."

Good to know

1

The lunch specials offer a lot of food for $12, which is a good deal.

2

The restaurant has generous portion sizes, ensuring you won't leave hungry.

3

Pets are welcome in the outdoor seating area.

09
SunOrganic Farm image 1
SunOrganic Farm image 2
SunOrganic Farm image 3
View all

Online store offers high-quality nuts with fast shipping and minimal packaging. Peanuts and pistachios shine for exceptional flavor and freshness. Delivery is easy and reliable, keeping produce fresh.

Organic foods come with minimal packaging, mostly paper. Quality stays consistently top-notch. Delivery options make getting fresh produce easy and reliable.

People are saying

"Their customer service was fabulous and they promptly sent a replacement."

Good to know

1

Shipping from SunOrganic Farm is fast and items arrive well packaged.

2

The website offers easy ordering for a variety of organic products.

3

Prices at SunOrganic Farm are competitive compared to local stores.

10
Happy Lemon San Marcos image 1
Happy Lemon San Marcos image 2
Happy Lemon San Marcos image 3
View all

Bubble tea shop shines with adjustable sweetness and crunchy bubble waffles paired with salted cheese. Friendly vibe and clean dining area make it inviting. Chill music adds to the mood but can get loud sometimes.

Food and drinks offer really good flavors and the dining area stays very clean.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here were really good."

Good to know

1

Drinks cost about $5-7 per person.

2

The waffle with cream costs about $7.

3

You can customize the ice and sugar levels in your drinks.

11
Sub-marine image 1
Sub-marine image 2
Sub-marine image 3
View all

Small sandwich shop serves huge portions with fresh ingredients and many toppings. Cozy, family-owned vibe makes it welcoming. Prices are a bit high but food quality and combos stand out.

Huge portions and great food stand out here. The menu offers solid combos, though prices lean a bit high.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great food here."

Good to know

1

Sub-marine offers a wide variety of sub sandwiches and toppings.

2

Prices for sandwiches start at $12 for a 6-inch.

3

Fresh ingredients are used in all sandwiches.

12
Panda Garden image 1
Panda Garden image 2
Panda Garden image 3
View all

Clean, spacious interior and kid-friendly atmosphere make dining relaxed and peaceful. Orange Peel Chicken offers delicious, affordable comfort food. Casual, cozy vibe with Chinese instrumental music enhances the simple, welcoming setting.

Chinese food here is consistently delicious with good prices. The Orange Peel Chicken stands out as excellent comfort food, whether dining in or taking out.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

Big portions make it easy for 3-4 people to eat well for around $50.

2

Lunch specials offer great value and reasonable prices.

3

Easy parking is available in a nearby strip mall.

13
Sitarah Simply Desi image 1
Sitarah Simply Desi image 2
Sitarah Simply Desi image 3
View all

Small store with an old school vibe offers a clean layout and fresh produce. It stocks a wide variety of Indian groceries focused on South Indian essentials. Quality food includes masalas and fresh veggies with strong flavors.

Food includes a wide range from masalas to frozen food and fresh veggies. Quality stays consistently nice and flavors come through well.

People are saying

"I love the fresh Indian vegetables and masalas they have here."

Good to know

1

The store has fresh produce and all the essentials needed in Indian kitchens.

2

They receive super fresh vegetables every Monday and Thursday.

3

The store takes custom orders for groceries not available in-store.

14
Banh Mi San Marcos image 1
Banh Mi San Marcos image 2
Banh Mi San Marcos image 3
View all

Small Vietnamese sandwich shop shines with crispy baguettes and savory grilled pork. Menu includes beef, chicken, and vegetarian options, all served with excellent service. Atmosphere stays peaceful and friendly, making it a local favorite despite often running out of bread.

Food here is consistently delicious and made with care. The menu offers a variety of sandwiches including beef, vegetarian, chicken, and pork, paired with excellent service that feels welcoming.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

The place is primarily a takeout service, not a full restaurant experience.

2

Banh mi sandwiches are priced under 10 USD.

3

They often run out of bread due to high demand, causing wait times.

15
TEKIPOKE RAMEN & BOBA image 1
TEKIPOKE RAMEN & BOBA image 2
TEKIPOKE RAMEN & BOBA image 3
View all

Space blends old, modern, and otaku themes with beautiful lanterns creating a unique look. Food is fresh with amazing poke and great presentation. Atmosphere feels neutral and nice, making it a solid spot for varied tastes.

Food here is consistently fresh and has very good quality. Presentation stands out, and the poke is notably amazing.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

You have to order on a placard for your to-go order.

2

They have a ton of options to customize my poke bowl.

3

The pricing is reasonable considering the large portions.

16
Flavor of Himalaya image 1
Flavor of Himalaya image 2
Flavor of Himalaya image 3
View all

Elegant decor and soft lighting create a warm vibe. Authentic Himalayan food shines with vegan options and great value. Music shifts from Bali wood melodies to lively sports bar energy, blending tradition with fun.

Food features authentic Himalayan flavors with a wide range of vegan options. Dishes come made to order and offer great value for the price.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the naan and butter chicken."

Good to know

1

The restaurant adds a 10% service charge for parties of four or more.

2

Lunch specials offer a great deal with less spicy options.

3

All dishes can be customized for vegetarians.

17
Tea Amo image 1
Tea Amo image 2
Tea Amo image 3
View all

Cozy bubble tea shop offers customizable drinks and unique snacks like popcorn chicken. Chill cafe vibe with free wifi and outlets makes it great for studying. Specialty food pairs well with drinks, so ordering ahead is smart.

Specialty food items stand out here, with a menu that pairs well with the drinks. Ordering ahead helps secure these offerings without wait.

People are saying

"I devoured the spicy popcorn chicken; it was so good."

Good to know

1

Customers can customize their drinks to suit their taste preferences.

2

Prices can add up quickly with extras, so plan your order accordingly.

3

Parking is convenient and generally available near the entrance.

18
Ramen Mik image 1
Ramen Mik image 2
Ramen Mik image 3
View all

Small Japanese spot offers miso ramen and homemade gyoza with a twist of Chinese flavors in fried rice. Colorful murals and minimalist seating create a laid-back vibe. Outdoor heaters keep the space cozy, while soft music adds to the pleasant atmosphere.

Food here matches Japanese quality with miso ramen and homemade gyoza standing out. The menu also includes strawberry mochi and fried rice that blends Chinese and Japanese flavors.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect to spend 15-20 dollars per person.

2

There was plenty of parking available.

3

They have pretty generous hours, operating half-day on holidays.

19
Sinbad Restaurant And Lounge image 1
Sinbad Restaurant And Lounge image 2
Sinbad Restaurant And Lounge image 3
View all

Dark, cool space offers fresh gyros that pair well with liquor. Music energizes the atmosphere with a spacious dance floor and DJ set. Evening vibe is relaxed and perfect for groups seeking a chill lounge experience.

Food pairs well with liquor, creating a solid combo. The dishes serve up great flavor and come with a worth the wait vibe.

People are saying

"The food here tasted great with fresh ingredients."

Good to know

1

Dinner prices are generally lower than at other restaurants in the area.

2

The restaurant serves a good portion of gyros for $6.

3

The venue operates as a restaurant during the day and a lounge at night.

20
Ernes Mexican Food & Breakfast image 1
Ernes Mexican Food & Breakfast image 2
Ernes Mexican Food & Breakfast image 3
View all

Small spot serves homemade Mexican food with generous portions and tender meats. Family-owned vibe feels warm and welcoming. Casual setting focuses on traditional dishes with a well-stocked salsa bar.

Homemade food stands out with great portions and phenomenal presentation. Mexican dishes here are consistently delicious and show clear improvement under new ownership.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

A taco and a soda cost about four dollars.

2

The restaurant offers beer and burritos.

3

Expect generous portion sizes.

21
Onny's Thai Restaurant image 1
Onny's Thai Restaurant image 2
Onny's Thai Restaurant image 3
View all

Cozy space with authentic Thai decor offers original Thai dishes made from fresh ingredients. Vibrant table settings add a playful touch. Enjoy meals paired with craft beers on tap from a local brewery.

Food here is consistently authentic Thai with fresh ingredients and great value. Dishes taste delicious and maintain high quality every time.

People are saying

"The food here is always delicious and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour offers half-priced spring rolls and draft beers on tap.

2

Lunch specials include an entree, rice, and appetizer at a pocket-friendly price.

3

Gratuity is automatically included for groups of six or more.

22
Curry Craft - Indian Restaurant & Catering Services image 1
Curry Craft - Indian Restaurant & Catering Services image 2
Curry Craft - Indian Restaurant & Catering Services image 3
View all

Indian restaurant blends calm atmosphere with aromatic spices and Warli paintings for a cozy feel. Food shines with fresh buffet options and tasty, affordable dishes meant for sharing.

Food offers a huge variety of options served fresh in both buffet style and individual portions. Dishes are delicious and affordable, with servings designed for sharing between two or more.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing."

Good to know

1

The lunch buffet is priced at $16.99 per person.

2

The Friday night buffet offers a variety of options.

3

There is plenty of parking available.

23
Chico's Restaurant image 1
Chico's Restaurant image 2
Chico's Restaurant image 3
View all

Enjoy authentic Mexico City style dishes with rich seasoning and generous portions at reasonable prices. Family-friendly atmosphere with a clean but slightly dated interior welcomes all. Parking is available behind the building but can fill up quickly.

Food features authentic Mexican cuisine with rich seasoning and a varied menu. Dishes come at reasonable prices and deliver consistent, delicious flavors.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

Parking can get full at Chico's Restaurant.

2

There is parking in the rear of the restaurant.

3

The prices at Chico's Restaurant are reasonable.

24
Nacho’s Taco Shop image 1
Nacho’s Taco Shop image 2
Nacho’s Taco Shop image 3
View all

Cozy spot serves authentic tacos and carne asada burritos with generous portions. Friendly staff speak English and Spanish, creating a welcoming vibe. Clean interior and fair prices make it a great choice for tasty, affordable Mexican food.

Food here is consistently great and affordable, with a focus on Mexican dishes like the California burrito. The kitchen puts real care into every meal, making it a solid choice for tasty, reasonably priced eats.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be pretty good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant opens at 7:00 a.m.

2

Breakfast burritos are ready by 7:15 a.m.

3

The prices are good and affordable.

25
Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers image 1
Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers image 2
Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers image 3
View all

Old school diner style meets modern vibe with retro red seats and spotlessly clean spaces. Burgers are thin, crispy smash style, cooked perfectly and full of flavor. Prices stay reasonable, making it a fun, tasty spot with 80s tunes adding youthful energy.

Burgers come cooked to perfection and full of flavor, served fresh and hot every time. Prices stay reasonable while maintaining consistent quality and great taste.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

Ample parking is available, shared with nearby restaurants.

2

The restaurant has both drive-thru and sit-down options.

3

Ordering through the app provides access to free extra toppings and rewards.

26
Señor Panchos Mexican Restaurant image 1
Señor Panchos Mexican Restaurant image 2
Señor Panchos Mexican Restaurant image 3
View all

Small Mexican spot shaped like a choo choo train offers authentic home-cooked flavors with large portions. Cozy, relaxed vibe fits well for casual dining. Prices stay reasonable, making it a great value for fresh, hot burritos and tacos.

Mexican food here stays fresh and hot with every order. Burritos, tacos, and fries deliver authentic home-cooked flavors at a great price.

People are saying

"The carne asada here is juicy, plentiful, and seasoned just right."

Good to know

1

The prices are reasonable, offering great value for large portions.

2

Expect big portions that are worth the price paid.

3

The drive-thru is super convenient for quick takeout.

27
Sayulitas Mexican Food image 1
Sayulitas Mexican Food image 2
Sayulitas Mexican Food image 3
View all

Mexican spot serves huge portions with fresh salsas and meat-filled burritos. Atmosphere is comfortable and clean but not fancy. Prices are higher than average, matching the quality and size of meals.

Food features tasty, fresh flavors with generous portions. Quality stays consistent, though prices lean a bit high.

People are saying

"These burritos are delicious and really big."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features a special for $7.99, including 3 tacos, rice, beans, and a beer.

2

Happy hour offers discounted food and drinks from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

Weekly specials are advertised on their Instagram account.

28
Ryan Bros Coffee of San Marcos image 1
Ryan Bros Coffee of San Marcos image 2
Ryan Bros Coffee of San Marcos image 3
View all

Small indoor space fills quickly but covered outdoor patio offers quiet, cozy seating with a relaxing breeze. Atmosphere stays calm and inviting, perfect for studying or casual meetups. Coffee and sandwiches are consistently good, with divine flavors and easy customization.

Food includes delicious coffee and tasty dishes with easy customization options. The flavors come across as divine and satisfying.

People are saying

"I thought the food and coffee were delicious."

Good to know

1

The wifi is not working at all currently.

2

They offer coffee, teas, muffins, cookies, and sandwiches.

3

The outdoor seating is covered, ideal for San Marcos weather.

29
Sapporo Sushi image 1
Sapporo Sushi image 2
Sapporo Sushi image 3
View all

Outdoor patio offers shaded private booths and heaters for comfort. Sushi shines with high-quality fish and a wide range of specialty rolls. Bright interior draws a busy evening crowd while food delivers freshness and lovely flavors beyond just cut rolls.

Food features freshness and lovely flavors with options beyond just cut rolls. Service and ambiance complement the delicious dishes well.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

2

The new Omakase menu is priced between $80 and $100 depending on the fish.

3

Expect higher prices, with rolls averaging around $17.99 for two pieces.

Discover more

San Marcos, California

Area guide