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 Fifth Avenue flavor |
756 Fifth Ave San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 233 2838 |
This is the perfect stop for fast, delicious Mexican food. Get your mouth set for piping hot, handmade corn tortillas and the best Alambres this side of Mexico City. Everything here is tasty including the tacos, fajitas and all the other Mexican classics. The service is friendly and fast, the vibe good and the room bright. Sit back and enjoy your meal and you are off into the night. Super cheap prices are less than $10. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Heavenly carne asada |
1251 Prospect St San Diego, CA 92037 United States +1 858 454 2232 http://www.alfonsoslajolla.sig... |
As you are passing through the picturesque city of La Jolla, stop by this inexpensive, popular Mexican restaurant. The outdoor seating is most popular, offering bright red tables and greenery. Inside, the wooden bar holds a prominent spot, decorated in colorful Mexican blankets. For your meal, consider Steak Picado, which includes beef sauteed with Mexican sausage. Pollo Sasonadao is also popular, served on weekends only. Of course, the most famous entree on this restaurant's menu is the Carne Asada Alfonso. Savor charcoal-broiled steak, served with cheese enchiladas, refried beans, rice and tortilla. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Spicy, but not pricey |
1235 Morena Boulevard San Diego, CA 92110 United States +1 619 275 4114 |
If you are looking for Black Beans and Rice, Arroz Con Pollo or Plantains, you are in luck at this authentic Cuban eatery. For almost two decades, this informal cafe has been serving Cuban specialties for lunch and dinner, including a sensational Roast Pork Cuban Sandwich. Everything on the menu is not only incredibly delicious, but the prices are inexpensive also. Beer and wine are available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Favorite among locals |
2251 El Camino Real San Diego, CA 92054 United States +1 760 757 7745 |
This Mexican restaurant is a favorite among North County locals. Festive stained glass displays are posted on top of each booth. Brightly colored artifacts cover the walls, accompanied by Mexican-style figurines showcased on shelves. The cantina hosts its own section, separated from the main dining area. Fajitas are a top choice among the entrees served at this spot. Choose Chicken or Steak Fajitas, served in a sizzling skillet with rice, beans, Guacamole, Salsa Fresca and hot Tortillas. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Big helpings and casual atmosphere |
4750 Oceanside Boulevard Suite 23 San Diego, CA 92056 United States +1 760 758 9672 |
This Mexican restaurant features a low-key atmosphere with plentiful servings. Simple black and white tables seat guests, who listen to Spanish selections from the jukebox or watch the local Spanish television station on one of two screens. For breakfast, try Huevos Rancheros or the Ham and Cheese Omelet, served with Rice, Beans and a Tortilla. Later in the day, take advantage of the combination plates, with portions large enough for two. The Chorizo Plate and Carne Asada Plate are particularly popular, both served with rice and beans. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Wily Coyotes dine here |
2461 San Diego Avenue San Diego, CA 92110 United States +1 619 291 4695 http://www.cafecoyoteoldtown.com/ |
A sturdy, spicy meal offered here is the Chimichange de Pollo, a deep-fried flour tortilla wrapped around chicken and topped with melted cheese, chile sauce and tomatillo-jalapeno salsa. Not sure about spicy Mexican food? A good compromise is the Carne Asada Plate, flavorful sirloin steak quick-seared and served with refried beans, Mexican rice and guacamole. Ten different beers on draft, a full bar and appetizers are available in the Coyote Cantina or served to your table. Patio dining puts you in the middle of Old Town shoppers and gawkers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: jocasta77 |
 Photo: Christina Gardner |
 Photo: Yayu Lin |
 Photo: Karen Dooley  |
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Mexico City-style cuisine |
345 South Coast Highway 101 San Diego, CA 92024 United States +1 760 634 2793 http://www.el-callejon.com/ |
Among a plethora of Mexican restaurants in San Diego County, this festive spot specializes in Mexico City-style cuisine. Brightly painted murals cover the walls, both outside and inside, and Mexican music is played throughout the restaurant. From the menu, try one of the Quesadillas, with Rotisserie Rork or Carne Asada. Tacos de Pollo con Guacamole (chicken tacos, with lettuce, Cotija cheese and guacamole) are another popular specialty. And the drinks? The restaurant hosts a full bar with 55 different Tequilas, as well as a variety of Margaritas. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Unique Mexican cuisine |
416 Third Ave San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 702 4455 http://candelas.signonsandiego... |
This Mexi-French restaurant is a great spot for romantic meals. Try the Nopales Salad if you have not been getting enough cactus in your diet lately;fear not, this is a spine-free version. Meanwhile, the Langosta Baeza is the piece de resistance;a large lobster tail stuffed with mushrooms, jalapenos, onions, bacon and tequila. Since the cuisine is rather unusual, the wine list has been carefully selected to support the food, drawing from vineyards in America, France and Spain. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Tasty food and top service |
3332 Adams Avenue San Diego, CA 92116 United States +1 619 283 0355 |
This restaurant's exterior is plain and the interior marginally comfortable, but the food and service are terrific. Homemade sauces and gourmet dishes set this venue apart from other Mexican restaurants in San Diego. Popular specialties include Pollo en Mole, chicken in a rich, spicy sauce touched with chocolate. The establishment offers a Cerveza (Beer) Brunch on Saturdays, with your choice of Mexican beer plus breakfast. Meanwhile, locals and well-informed visitors eagerly devour the popular Champagne Brunch on Sundays. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Historic Mexican Restaurant |
5500 Grossmont Center Drive La Mesa's Grossmont Center San Diego, CA 91942 United States +1 619 463 3267 http://www.bazaardelmundo.com/ |
This first-rate restaurant pampers diners on a festive patio, complete with a beautiful fountain and mariachis. Whether you are looking for tasty giant-sized margaritas or chimichangas, fajitas, burritos, tacos or enchiladas, you are sure to find your favorite Mexican dish cooked to perfection here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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More than tacos |
142 University Avenue Suite E San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 294 8646 http://www.chilangosgrill.com/ |
Showcasing traditional Mexico City specialties, this uplifting little restaurant offers far beyond the usual tacos, burritos and combination plates. The highly informal venue is populated primarily by locals, many of whom are regular customers. While the atmosphere is casual, the decor is still bright and the entire restaurant is clean and tidy. Carne Asada is a customer favorite. Other top sellers include Pico de Gallo Fruit Salad, Chile Relleno Quesadilla and Chicken/Avocado Salad. No bar is available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Tiny and informal spot |
3440 Del Lago Boulevard San Diego, CA 92029 United States +1 760 745 0397 |
This taco shop is a tiny, highly informal location that is wildly popular among the locals. It is an ideal stop during your workday or leisure day, for an authentic Mexican lunch. The front of the shop holds an order counter, with the menu posted overhead. Several two-person tables are located inside, with bright blankets and sombreros showcased above each table. Choose from a vast selection of tacos, burritos, tortas and enchiladas. Try the ever-popular Carne Asada or a Guacamole Taco. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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First rate |
1894 Main Street San Diego, CA 92113 United States +1 619 234 6937 |
This lively local hangout has been serving patrons with big, inexpensive meals since 1956. Located near the Naval Station at the foot of the Coronado Bay Bridge, it attracts many customers in uniform and their families. Look for home-style tamales, burritos, tacos and everything else that makes up basic, flavorful Mexican food. The atmosphere is a little plain (save for the large chili pepper hanging from the ceiling), but pleasant - the main emphasis here is on the food and camaraderie. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wuji9981 |
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More than coconut and limes |
404 Pier View Way San Diego, CA 92054 United States +1 760 439 4045 |
This restaurant's name means coconut and lime. The informal dining venue offers foods with the distinct flavor of the Mexican region from which it derives its name. Hosting a few booths and one order counter, the local hot spot is casual, with a jukebox playing Latino music and a television showing Spanish telenovelas. For your meal, choose from an expansive variety of burritos, tacos, quesadillas, tortas and combination plates. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Lori Kennedy |
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Ultra-trendy Mexican cuisine |
300 Carlsbad Village Drive San Diego, CA 92008 United States +1 760 729 4695 http://www.coyote-barandgrill.... |
This North County restaurant combines a Southwestern theme, hip cuisine and live entertainment. Wooden furniture features Southwestern-style carvings and Native American symbols are painted on the stone fireplace. Real cactus plants are scattered throughout the restaurant. While the inside hosts a large bar and dining area, the fast-paced action is outdoors. Live entertainment, from disc jockeys to karaoke, enlivens the patio dining section. Popular entrees include Swordfish Tacos, the Vegetable Burrito and Chile Relleno. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Tempting taquitos |
3695 India St San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 299 0333 http://www.elindio.net |
The fact that this family-owned restaurant has been serving up good, authentic Mexican food since 1940, speaks volumes. Eating here says it all. Start the day with a breakfast burrito. A plate of chicken or beef taquitos or anything else on the menu for that matter is delicious. The prices are unbelievably low with many items USD8 or less. A festive indoor atmosphere is available, but most guests prefer to dine on one of the two outdoor patios. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Homemade Mexican cuisine |
226 Main Street San Diego, CA 92084 United States +1 760 724 7680 |
You will not find this restaurant listed in most tourist guides, but it is a favorite among locals. Lively Mexican music greets guests upon entering the restaurant. The dining room holds about one dozen wooden tables, with additional tables seated on the outdoor sidewalk. Everything on the menu comes recommended by regular patrons. Enchiladas Rojas includes two flour tortillas, filled with chile and topped with enchilada sauce, cheese, sour cream, avocado, cabbage and tomatoes. For a smaller meal, consider an a la carte item, such as Chicken or Beef Chimichangas. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Southwestern on the beach |
1555 Camino Del Mar (Ste 322) San Diego, CA 92014 United States +1 858 259 9966 http://www.epazote.signonsandi... |
You love Mexican food but you are tired of the traditional, predictable offerings. Take heart at this romantic destination that offers superb Southwestern cuisine. Entree items are truly original, such as the Smoked Chicken Quesaddillas that give a whole new flavor to this Mexican classic. Best of all, enjoy a fabulous ocean view when dining on the terrace, which is comfortable all year with heaters and a fireplace. The Margaritas are said to be the best in town. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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A local favorite |
664 North Coast Highway 101 San Diego, CA 92024 United States +1 760 942 1040 |
This restaurant may not appear inviting from the outside, but it is a long-standing favorite among local customers seeking scrumptious Mexican cuisine. Located just minutes away from the Pacific Ocean, the family-run establishment offers friendly service and an upbeat atmosphere. Of course, most customers return simply for one reason-the delicious, mouth-watering soups. A full bar accompanies a long list of homemade, Mexican soup specialties. Traditional Mexican entrees are offered as well. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fabulous fajitas |
6690 Mission Gorge Road San Diego, CA 92120 United States +1 619 284 5874 |
When you have a taste for good, fresh Mexican food, you want the genuine article. Look no further than this family-owned venue that serves up a delicious array of seven different kinds of fajitas, nestled in handmade flour tortillas. A hands-down favorite are the Shrimp Fajitas, spicy mouth-watering and memorable. Beyond fajitas, traditional Mexican specialties are served, including Chile Rellenos that are in a class by themselves. Next-to-nothing prices keep even the tightest budgets well in line. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Join the fiesta |
607 Valley Avenue San Diego, CA 92075 United States +1 858 755 5292 |
Located near the coast, this upbeat dining establishment serves traditional Mexican specialties. Enjoy delicious Carnitas, Enchiladas, Tacos and Burritos at the festive, brightly-decorated restaurant. Locals recommend the Crab Enchilada (crab meat topped with cheese, tomatillo sauce and sour cream). Wash it all down with a memorable Margarita from the onsite cantina. Fidel's Norte, a second location of this pouplar dining venue, is located along the North County coastline in Carlsbad. In addition it also boasts of a full bar. The restaurant is open for both lunch and dinner. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A fiesta for all senses |
3003 Carlsbad Boulevard San Diego, CA 92008 United States +1 760 729 0903 |
With colorful decor, talented mariachis and traditional Mexican specialties, this place is a fiesta for all the senses. Pueblo-style architecture welcomes you to a Southwestern ambience. The indoors is covered with decorative tile, Southwestern paintings and pottery, while the outside patio offers umbrella-topped tables among cactus plants. As the mariachi group approaches your table, request a song from any region of Mexico. As for the cuisine, try the Carne Asada (served with guacamole, salsa frescale and tortillas). Top off your meal with a famous margarita. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Fun food and drink |
1165 Garnet Ave San Diego, CA 92109 United States +1 858 483 8226 http://www.moosemcgillycuddys.... |
The beautiful people of the "just over drinking age" set have discovered this small restaurant tucked within the favorite watering hole of Moose McGillycuddy's. Mexican food can be ordered a la carte or as combinations. One of the burritos (prices vary by ingredients requested and grilled to order) is enough to fill you up for an entire afternoon. For the less adventurous, hamburgers and fries are filling, grilled to order and inexpensive. Beer and wine and margaritas are available to cool down the spicy salsa. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Michael Lore |
 Photo: John Wong |
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Top-notch Mexican cuisine |
145 Leucadia Boulevard San Diego, CA 92024 United States +1 760 753 1711 |
Just a few blocks from the coastline, this independent restaurant is popular among both locals and tourists. Southwestern decor reigns supreme as cactus plants surround the stucco building. Inside, festive music plays and Southwestern paintings brighten the walls. From the a la carte menu, popular picks include the Chili Relleno and Tostada. A small specialties section of the menu features Puerco Oaxaqueno, a blackened Portabella mushroom, covered with medallions of pork, sauteed with salsa and served with beans, mexi-slaw and tortillas. Each Friday, fresh fish is served at market price. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Southwestern Cuisine and Seafood Specialties |
2435 Jefferson Street (Old Town) San Diego, CA 92110 United States +1 619 260 8500 http://www.marriot.com/SANOT |
The restaurant is located in the Courtyard by Marriott. It is near Interstate 5, San Diego's Lindbergh International Airport, and the world-famous SeaWorld. The Historic Gila House Restaurant and Lounge specializes in Mexican and classic American cuisine, especially seafood and specialties from the South-West. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Superior Mexican food |
611 B Street San Diego, CA 92101-4306 United States +1 619 234 8272 |
This popular restaurant draws diners of all ages who often dress up a bit in the evenings. The festive atmosphere is enhanced by dark wooden tables and a bright floor pattern. Many newcomers are happily surprised by the wide range of innovative dishes on the menu. Try Sauteed Octopus, Steamed Clams, Lamb Chops or a tasty bowl of soup. Taco plate combinations, as well as enchiladas and burritos, are equally popular. Be sure to review the wine list. Spanish wines often have a tart taste to complement your meal. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Eric M. Juttner |
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Heaping plates of Mexican cuisine |
19320 Lake Drive San Diego, CA 92029 United States +1 760 746 1444 http://www.stevensrestaurantgr... |
This restaurant is a favorite spot for San Diego locals. A full-service bar is centrally located with several populated rooms surrounding it. The dining rooms are decorated with paper flowers and bright colors. With quesadillas and chile rellenos, the restaurant serves a Southwestern style of Mexican favorites in huge helpings. Popular dishes include the Carnitas Platter and the richly delicious Sour Cream Enchiladas. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Voted Best New Restaurant in Little Italy |
1536 India Street San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 234 6802 http://www.cohnrestaurants.com |
Indigo Grill was awarded the 'Best New Restaurant of 2002' by San Diego Restaurant Association. It is located in Little Italy and is a treat for those who love Mexican food. It has a full bar with the best selection of tequilas, mescals and rums. The food is great and the desserts are even better. Happy hour lasts from Monday-Friday 4:30p-6:30p. You can choose between indoor and outdoor dining. Reservation is recommended. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Steve Gubin |
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No politics, just delicious |
3172 Fifth Avenue San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 295 2070 |
This eclectic restaurant claims to have a "dish for everyone." Hungry guests choose from dishes with origins from Mexico, India, the Pacific Rim, Italy or the United States. For breakfast, try an Indian dish called Utthupam, a crepe filled with lentils and rice. For lunch, try any of the delicious salads or pastas. At dinnertime, the Boeuf Amsterdam is a six-ounce filet mignon topped with a sauce of bleu cheese, white wine and onions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jeff Cohen |
 Photo: desi rascal |
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Long-standing community favorite |
1037 Prospect St San Diego, CA 92037 United States +1 858 454 7655 http://www.joses.com/ |
The atmosphere at this popular restaurant and bar is best characterized as colorful. The bright yellow sign, along with a front door featuring yellow, blue and green prints, welcome guests into the restaurant. Once inside, guests will notice colorful tabletops as well as mural-covered walls. The small, busy restaurant offers juke box music and a big bar. Carne asada tops the menu, including combinations of tacos, tortas and burritos. The place also offers marinated steak with a cheese enchilada and guacamole. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Genuinely Mexican |
978 Garnet Avenue San Diego, CA 92109 United States +1 858 605 0093 http://www.mexicantaco.com/ |
Delicious food, casual and peppy ambiance is what makes up LIMONZ Rostizados. This Mexican restaurant serves great Mexican food with an innovative twist, opened in 2006, it has become one of the best restaurants in Pacific beach. LIMONZ Rostizados is open late on weekends and the 'Nite Bites' out here is a must try. A special feature of this place is that the food is prepared right in front of you, hence there are no waiters here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Sizzling Flavor |
628 Fifth Ave San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 232 4242 http://www.lasfajitas.com |
Located in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, this popular dining venue offers a festive atmosphere, with indoor and outdoor dining options. The menu features favorites from Mexico City, including the best fajitas you will ever eat. Marinated in an exotic chili spice and served with sautéed bell peppers, onions and tomatoes, the fajitas are heaven on a tortilla. Fajitas range from $12-20; seafood, chicken or meat entrees range from $14-25. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Delicious Late Night Food Joint |
5026 Newport Avenue San Diego, CA 92107 United States +1 619 224 8088 |
When leaving the Sunshine Company Limited Bar late at night, there is really only one choice: Livingston's Chicken Kitchen, a place known for its Mexican and chicken oriented specialties. However, this small restaurant is far more than just a late night food stop. With a huge menu that includes anything from burritos to chicken fingers, Livingston's is a staple for Ocean Beach locals and visitors at any time of day or night. Treat yourself to the affordable rotisserie chicken meal or any of the enchilada/taco platters. Just want a bite to eat while you shoot pool next door? No worries, the chips and salsa appetizer is a delicious and accommodating snack. -Eric Fischgrund Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A Local Favorite |
2912 Shelter Island Dr San Diego, CA 92106 United States +1 619 224 2401 http://www.miguels-cocina.com |
You will not find "Mexican lite" served here. Instead, this is good soul-satisfying Mexican food. You will find enchiladas smothered with sauce and cheese, as well as tostada supremes laden with sour cream and guacamole. Do not forget to ask for the special "white sauce" with the chips and salsa—all the locals do! With good food, friendly service and a full bar, this small restaurant has become a San Diego favorite. Without reservations, expect to wait an hour on weekend nights. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Breakfast and lunch specialties |
2801 University Avenue (At 28th Street) San Diego, CA 92104 United States +1 619 220 8992 |
Located about two miles northeast of Balboa Park, this wonderful early-day restaurant draws crowds from all over San Diego. Simple wooden tables and chairs are scattered about, giving this place a very informal atmosphere. Regular visitors love the blackberry-banana pancakes and the strawberry-granola pancakes. There is also a so-called Zen Breakfast composed of egg whites, tofu, zucchini and brown rice. For lunch, consider ordering Papa's Loco - an appetizer that can almost serve as a meal. Warm potatoes are covered with beans and cheese, providing a nice alternative to ordinary nachos. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Daniel D'Auria |
 Photo: mgdistrict |
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Walk to the waves |
1852 Bacon Street San Diego, CA 92107 United States +1 619 224 3369 http://www.natis.sandiegan.com/ |
Dine in sunshine or candleglow. This 38-year-old favorite is one of the bargains in nearby Ocean Beach. Lots of food at reasonable prices can be savored on the patio, inside surrounded by windows and wood or taken to the pier one block away. Standard Mexican dishes such as Burritos, Tacos and Enchiladas, and daily lunch and dinner specials are prepared with exceptionally high quality ingredients. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Tortilla treasures |
2489 San Diego Ave San Diego, CA 92110 United States +1 619 297 4330 http://www.oldtownmexcafe.com/ |
This lively Old Town restaurant has been serving up unique Mexican food for twenty years. Both locals and tourists flock here for great food at low prices. There are daily specials, an array of upscale tequilas decorating the lively bar area, and cheerful service. The Chile Rellenos are the best in town and the Chile Verde Pork Burrito will haunt your dreams. No reservations are accepted; expect a long wait (often an hour plus) on weekend nights. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: mylerdude |
 Photo: Warren Sze |
 Photo: Will Gorman |
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Revolutionary dining |
1770 Camino De La Reina San Diego, CA 92108 United States +1 619 209 3700 http://www.ontheborder.com/men... |
Border towns in the time of revolutionary Emiliano Zapata probably did not look just like this, but relax and enjoy the Mexican decor and food, served with spirit and creativity. The dining area combines booths and tables illuminated by interesting western metal light fixtures. Old photographs, signs and vaquero cowboy gear from Mexico enhance the feeling of being in a small village. Dinner focuses on Mesquite Fired Fajitas. The OTB House margarita is an enjoyable complement to your meal. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Sophisticated Mexican Cuisine |
141 University Avenue, Suite 5 San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 692 4200 http://www.ortegasbistro.com |
A new twist on an old Baja classic, Ortega's A Mexican Bistro infuses its Puerto Nuevo dishes with California-style cooking. The bar, La Cantina, evokes high style Mexico City with plush couches while the dining area maintains an outdoor patio feel. Locals and tourists alike will love the handmade guacamole, made right at your table, complete with burnt lime and freshly chopped onions. Customers can sip Mentas while dining on Ortega's famous lobster dishes, or sample wines and the Huitlacoche and Portabello Taco Trio. Desserts include Coconut Flan with Grilled Pineapple and White Chocolate and Raspberry Cheesecake.-Jane Watts Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Truly Mexican |
947 East Street San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 702 7160 http://www.pokezsd.com/ |
Pokez Mexican Restaurant serves a variety of vegetarian and non vegetarian dishes, however it is more known for the veggies it cooks up. The restaurant offers more than 30 varieties of tofu and vegetarian Mexican delicacies and has a casual environment. It claims to cook its delicacies in vegetable oil and not lard, making it a good option for vegans. This one is easy on the wallet and must be tried if one wants to taste some excellent Mexican food. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Neighborhood secret |
4050 Adams Avenue San Diego, CA 92116 United States +1 619 282 4413 |
Scores of diners visit this restaurant on weekend nights, especially when an exciting independent film is premiering at the Ken Cinema across the street. Inside, the recently renovated restaurant has abandoned its old 1950s diner atmosphere in favor of dramatic rust-colored walls, and a new wine list offers more choices. But this family-run restaurant continues to offer unique and wholly-Mexican. Fresh made tortilla chips arrive with a thick spicy salsa, a bowl of dangerous jalapenos and slightly milder carrots. For your entree, handmade Chile Rellenos are a good bet. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Authentic Mexican Food |
8302, La Mesa Boulevard San Diego, CA 91941 United States +1 619 698 5950 http://www.porfavorrestaurant.com |
A popular spot for authentic Mexican cuisine since 1974, Por Favor continues to serve delicious dishes and regional fare such as Ropa Vieja, which is shredded beef in a tantalizing sauce. In an atmosphere like no other, a full service bar caters to your desires, but margaritas are in demand. Dine indoors behind stained glass windows, wooden carvings, and folk paintings, or take it outside to the popular sidewalk patio under the clear skies and spoiling temperature. Lunch and dinner are served daily. Proportions are satisfying with that home-cooked taste and plates fresh from the oven. Muy Bien! -Lawrence Hocog Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Old Town Hot Spot |
3890 Twiggs St San Diego, CA 92110 United States +1 619 260 0305 |
A genuine Spanish-era adobe ranchero house is home to this popular restaurant in Old Town, where San Diego began. Inside the restaurant, soft adobe-colored walls are picked out with bright murals in a patio atmosphere complete with a waterfall. Lobster tops the menu, prepared Puerto Nuevo style with a sprinkle of spices. Try Lobster Melts or Lobster Tacos. Happy Hour in the Cantina runs 3pm-7pm Monday-Friday and offers discounted appetizers and drink specials. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jeffrey Hartman |
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North County super spot |
1020 West San Marcos Blvd (Suite 110) San Diego, CA 92069 United States +1 760 744 7550 |
Lobster is a San Diego-Baja tradition, and you can get plenty of it at this jumping cantina-restaurant. The coastal Mexican decor invites happy, slightly boisterous dining and drinking. The favorite dishes are served in buckets, which often hold enough for two people. The food is messy, tasty and fun, especially when accompanied by a few icy margaritas from the full bar. The menu offers a lot of lobster—Lobster Melts, Lobster Tacos or Lobster alone. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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The best fish taco |
901 4th Avenue San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 231 7731 |
No visit to San Diego would be complete without sampling that delightful regional specialty: the Fish Taco. This fast-food spot offers the best and most authentic Baja-style Fish Tacos north of the border. Beyond the Fish Taco, other specialties include the Shrimp Burrito and Lobster Taco, not to mention the sinful Chocolate Ice Cream Taco. Those unenamored of seafood will find Carne Asada (grilled steak), chargrilled chicken entrees, burritos galore and a HealthMex menu. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Spanish Passion |
555 Fourth Ave San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 233 5979 http://www.cafesevilla.com/ |
This intensely romantic restaurant offers outstanding Tapas—small, savory dishes served as appetizers or as an entire meal. The salmon, pine nut and cranberry empanada is particularly good, and the rich melted mancheco cheese in the Queso Fundido smears over the crusty bread in a very satisfying way. Enjoy the Tapas in the music-filled bar or dine on a full Spanish meal in the adjacent dining room. The downstairs nightclub is a big draw and also offers dance lessons some nights. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Breakfast Alongside the Ocean |
5083 Santa Monica Avenue San Diego, CA 92107 United States +1 619 222 0501 http://www.shadesob.com/ |
Enjoy eating your breakfast overlooking the oceanfront on a warm sunny morning? Eat up while the sun comes up at Shades Oceanfront Bistro, located at the bottom of Santa Monica in Ocean Beach. The waffle selection is second to none, the service is friendly and efficient, and the view is breathtaking. Try a tasty breakfast, lunch, or dinner item, or just sit on the deck and enjoy your beverage at this popular restaurant. Several different entrees include Mexican foods, hickory smoked ribs, and other tantalizing dishes that round out this large menu ensuring your entire family goes home satisfied. -Eric Fischgrund Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Everybody Must Get Stoned! |
1999 Citracado Parkway (between Andreasan Drive & Vineyard Avenue) San Diego, CA 92029 United States +1 760 471 4999 http://www.stoneworldbistro.com/ |
Perched high on a hill in the industrial outskirts of Escondido, Stone World Bistro is quite literally a desert oasis. The cavernous dining room is adorned with slabs of granite, beams of steel and a 30-foot bamboo tree. The bar sits in one corner, in the shadow of the brewery's series of two-story brew kettles (which you can see up close and personal on the free daily brewery tour). Across the way, airplane-hangar-like doors open onto the facility's centerpiece, a beautifully manicured patio and garden about the size of a city block. Pathways snake past lawns, fountains, a creek, and a fire pit. Pick a spot and down a pint or two of the award-winning homemade beer (including rarities like Oaked Arrogant Bastard). The food menu is a cut above your average pub grub, focusing on locally raised seasonal ingredients and exotic preparations. The on-site gift shop features everything from Arrogant Bastard hoodies to freshly jugged beer to go. See website for full menu, beer info, event calendar, online shopping, tour schedule and more. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Classic Mexican for three decades |
6738 La Jolla Blvd San Diego, CA 92037 United States +1 858 454 0369 |
Founded in 1967, this was one of the first restaurants to elevate Mexican food as a cuisine worthy of intelligent enjoyment. Comfortable interior with a warm fireplace shuts away the bustle of La Jolla Boulevard, though an outdoor patio exists for those who want to dine al fresco. The fresh avocado guacamole is prepared table-side here. If you have never had guacamole fresh and well made, this item alone will be worth your trip. In addition, the Verde Crab Enchilada has won awards, combining crab with a delicately spicy green sauce. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Decades of tradition |
340 West Grand Avenue San Diego, CA 92025 United States +1 760 747 8282 http://www.latapatiamexcafe.com |
Serving traditional Mexican cuisine for decades, this dining venue has earned a reputation as a landmark in the Escondido community. Since 1937, this local establishment has offered premium Mexican specialties, accompanied by friendly service and a family atmosphere. House specialties are the hot ticket here. Chile Con Carne features sirloin or pork, with spicy salsa, Mexican rice, beans, and flour or corn tortillas. Try one of the enchilada specialties, such as Enchiladas Rancheras (corn tortillas with cheese, mild sauce and sour cream, served with rice and beans). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Treasures from Mexico! |
548 5th Avenue San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 234 5670 http://www.tesorogaslamp.com/ |
Located in the Gaslamp quarter, Tesoro is truly a treasure for those who love Mexican food. And that's exactly what Tesoro means in Spanish - treasure! Run by the Vera family, this restaurant gives you a choice of great delicacies - Pollo al Tequila, Lenguado Almendrado, Chiles Rellenos, and Chocolate Crepe Cake - to name a few. Cocktails, margaritas, wine, tequila, and beer are on offer too. Live music events are organised from time to time. Stop by and have a blast! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fiesta-like atmosphere |
3334 Rosecrans Street San Diego, CA 92110 United States +1 619 223 2109 |
This lively and friendly Mexican restaurant has to work hard to overcome an odd location on top of an older motel and next to a busy street, but once visitors find it they come back time and again. The traditional complimentary chips and salsa are so good that you must remind yourself to save room for the entree. Combination plates are popular, such as the Shredded-Beef Taco Plate or the Chicken Enchilada Plate. A full bar is available; try a Margarita or one of the numerous brands of Mexican beer. Review © 2007, Wcities |
