San Diego’s proximity to the Mexican border makes it a prime destination for authentic Mexican cuisine. From family-style barbacoa feasts to Tijuana-inspired street tacos, the city boasts a vibrant culinary scene that will tantalize your taste buds. If you’re craving tacos, burritos, or a refreshing margarita, look no further. Here are 12 of the best Mexican restaurants in San Diego that offer a true taste of Mexico.
A plate of tacos inside a Mexican restaurant.
Best Mexican San Diego: A Culinary Journey
1. Aqui es Texcoco: A Barbacoa Paradise
Aqui es Texcoco pays homage to the Mexican region of Texcoco, the birthplace of barbacoa. Their specialty, slow-roasted lamb barbacoa, is cooked for hours in maguey leaves, resulting in tender, flavorful meat. Be prepared for a family-style feast with various cuts of lamb, including loin, ribs, and pancita (tripe), accompanied by a comforting cup of seasoned lamb broth.
Location: 520 Broadway, Chula Vista
2. El Indio: A San Diego Institution
El Indio, a Mission Hills landmark, has been serving delicious Mexican food for over 80 years. This legendary establishment is renowned for its crispy taquitos, a dish they originally created for their tortilla factory workers. Today, they offer a variety of flavors, including beef, chicken, and potato, all topped with guacamole and cheese. Their menu also features other classic dishes like burritos, chimichangas, and enchiladas.
Location: 3695 India S, San Diego
3. Café Coyote: Margaritas and More
Café Coyote in Old Town is the place to be for exceptional margaritas and delicious Mexican food. With over 100 types of tequila and more than 20 margarita variations, you’re sure to find the perfect pairing for your meal. Enjoy their giant, freshly-made margaritas alongside overflowing plates of burritos, tacos, and other delectable antojitos.
Location: 2461 San Diego Ave.
4. Puesto Mexican Bar & Kitchen: Artisanal Tacos
Puesto Mexican Bar & Kitchen elevates Mexican cuisine with its artisanal blue corn tortillas and innovative dishes. Their mango shrimp ceviche is a must-try, and their tacos are a true culinary experience. Enjoy your meal on their beautiful outdoor patio with a refreshing Agua Fresca.
Location: Multiple locations
5. Tacos El Gordo: Tijuana-Style Street Tacos
Tacos El Gordo brings the vibrant flavors of Tijuana street food to San Diego. This taqueria offers a wide variety of tacos, from the popular adobada (spiced pork) to more adventurous options like cabeza (head) and buche (stomach). Don’t forget to try their loaded fries with your favorite meat and toppings.
Location: 511 F St, San Diego
6. Ed Fernandez Restaurant: Award-Winning Birria
Ed Fernandez Restaurant is known for its exceptional birria, a slow-cooked Mexican beef stew. The rich, flavorful stew is cooked overnight, allowing the beef, chiles, and spices to meld together perfectly. Enjoy it with warm corn tortillas and experience what many consider to be the “best taco in the USA.”
Location: 2265 Flower Ave # D, San Diego
7. The Taco Stand: Fresh and Flavorful
The Taco Stand, with multiple locations across San Diego, is a local favorite for its fresh, flavorful tacos, burritos and breakfast items. Their tortillas, guacamole, and salsas are made fresh daily, ensuring a high-quality dining experience. Be sure to try their breakfast burritos and churros.
Location: Multiple locations
8. Lola 55: Modern Mexican Cuisine
Lola 55 offers a modern twist on traditional Mexican dishes. Their mesquite-grilled steak tacos with avocado mousse and smoky Padilla salsa are a standout. They also offer creative options like achiote pork belly and local fish in beer batter.
Location: 1290 F St, San Diego & 7720 El Camino Real Carlsbad
9. Tahona: A Mezcal Lover’s Paradise
Tahona, located in Old Town, is a must-visit for mezcal enthusiasts. With over 120 types of mezcal and a wide array of cocktails, this Oaxacan-inspired restaurant offers a unique dining experience. Enjoy their quesabirria tacos and churros alongside your mezcal.
Location: 2414 San Diego Ave.
10. TJ Oyster Bar, Bonita: Baja-Style Seafood
TJ Oyster Bar in Bonita specializes in Baja-style seafood. Enjoy tostadas piled high with ceviche, tacos loaded with fried fish or shrimp, and refreshing micheladas.
Location: 4246 Bonita Rd, Bonita
11. Las Cuatro Milpas: No-Frills Authentic Mexican
Las Cuatro Milpas is a no-frills taqueria in Barrio Logan known for its delicious carnitas. Be prepared to wait in line for their authentic Mexican dishes, available for lunch only.
Location: 1857 Logan Ave, San Diego
12. La Doña: Tijuana Flavors in Pacific Beach
La Doña, owned by Tijuana-native Chef Gabby Lopez, brings the vibrant flavors of Tijuana to Pacific Beach. Try their Tacos de Camarones, spicy agauchile, or the Molcajete el Patron, a sizzling dish served in a traditional molcajete.
Location: 1852 Bacon St, San Diego
From traditional to modern, San Diego’s Mexican food scene offers something for everyone. These 12 restaurants provide a diverse range of culinary experiences that capture the true essence of Mexican cuisine. So, whether you’re a local or a visitor, embark on a culinary adventure and discover the best Mexican food San Diego has to offer.
