This guide covers 48 mexican restaurant options in San Diego. Guests rate them 4.5 out of 5 on average. Most of them are spread across Old Town, Downtown San Diego, Gaslamp Quarter, so those are the areas to start with.
All Mexican restaurant in San Diego
Puesto Mission Valley
Puesto is a Mexican-American family-owned restaurant serving handmade blue corn tortillas, award-winning tacos, burritos, and perfect margaritas. Founded by first-generation Mexican Americans, Puesto is made by food people, for food people. Every Puesto taco starts with organic, non-GMO blue corn tortillas, made in-house daily — a tradition dating back to 1200 BC. Puesto's menu features 12 options, including the award-winning Filet Mignon Taco, the classic Chicken Al Pastor Taco, and the decadent Lobster Taco. Alongside its tacos, Puesto Cervecería brews Mexican-style lagers, pilsners, and IPAs on-site in San Diego, served fresh across all its restaurant locations in San Diego, Orange County, and the Bay Area. Puesto's drink menu is built on the same craftsmanship as its food — premium tequilas and mezcals, fresh-squeezed citrus, and house-made syrups come together in margaritas and cocktails with clean, authentic flavor. Puesto offers catering services for groups of various sizes, and its restaurants are family-friendly, welcoming atmospheres. Puesto also operates stands inside Levi's Stadium serving tacos, margaritas, nachos, and burritos on game days. With locations across San Diego, Orange County, and the Bay Area, Puesto is a popular destination for Mexican food lovers, and its commitment to using organic, non-GMO ingredients and seed-oil-free cooking makes it a leader in the industry.
- 5010 Mission Center Rd, San Diego, CA 92108
- Mission Valley East
- (619) 333-2167
- eatpuesto.com
- Today: 11 AM–9 PM
Opening hours
- Monday11 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday11 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday11 AM–9 PM
- Thursday11 AM–9 PM
- Friday11 AM–10 PM
- Saturday11 AM–10 PM
- Sunday11 AM–9 PM
Pueblo
Pueblo is a Mexican restaurant located in San Diego, California, that offers a range of contemporary chef-driven plates, fresh Baja and local ingredients, and global techniques rooted in Mexico's coastal culinary traditions. The menu features a variety of dishes, including tacos, burritos, chimichangas, and salads, with a focus on using high-quality ingredients and presenting them in a visually appealing way. Pueblo's bar also offers a selection of tequila, beer, and wine from both sides of the border, as well as a variety of fresh ingredient tequila and agave-based spirit cocktails. Pueblo is a restaurant that caters to diners looking for a flavorful and authentic Mexican dining experience. The restaurant's menu is designed to reflect the rich culinary heritage of Mexico, with dishes that blend traditional flavors with modern twists and techniques. The restaurant's chefs use fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that are both delicious and visually appealing. Pueblo is a great option for anyone looking for a dining experience that combines flavor, quality, and value. With its focus on using high-quality ingredients and presenting dishes in a visually appealing way, Pueblo offers a dining experience that is both enjoyable and affordable. Whether you're in the mood for tacos, burritos, or something else, Pueblo's menu has something for everyone, making it a great choice for a night out with friends or a family dinner.
- 877 Hornblend St, San Diego, CA 92109
- Pacific Beach
- (858) 412-3312
- pueblopb.com
- Today: 11:30 AM–10:30 PM
Opening hours
- Monday11:30 AM–10:30 PM
- Tuesday11:30 AM–10:30 PM
- Wednesday11:30 AM–10:30 PM
- Thursday11:30 AM–10:30 PM
- Friday11:30 AM–11:30 PM
- Saturday11:30 AM–11:30 PM
- Sunday11:30 AM–10:30 PM
Puesto at the Headquarters
Puesto is a Mexican-American family-owned restaurant serving handmade blue corn tortillas, award-winning tacos, burritos, and perfect margaritas. Puesto is committed to serving Mexican cuisine inspired by the flavors of Mexico City and California, with a focus on using premium ingredients and cooking methods. The restaurant has multiple locations across California, including San Diego, Orange County, and the Bay Area, as well as a stand at Levi's Stadium. Puesto's menu features a variety of dishes, including tacos, burritos, quesadillas, ceviche, and more, all made with fresh, organic ingredients. The restaurant is known for its signature blue corn tortillas, which are made in-house daily using a traditional recipe that dates back to 1200 BC. The tortillas are layered with crispy melted cheese and filled with a variety of meats and vegetables, including filet mignon, chicken al pastor, and lobster. Puesto also offers a range of margaritas and cocktails made with premium tequilas and mezcals, as well as Mexican-style lagers, pilsners, and IPAs brewed on-site. Puesto is a family-friendly restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. The restaurant offers catering services for groups of various sizes, as well as a loyalty program and frequent promotions. Puesto is committed to using sustainable and responsible practices, including serving seed oil-free food and partnering with local farmers and ranchers to source ingredients. This commitment to quality and sustainability has earned Puesto a loyal following and critical acclaim, with multiple locations and a reputation as one of the top Mexican restaurants in California.
- 789 W Harbor Dr Unit 155, San Diego, CA 92101
- Downtown San Diego
- (619) 233-8880
- eatpuesto.com
- Today: 11 AM–9 PM
Opening hours
- Monday11 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday11 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday11 AM–9 PM
- Thursday11 AM–9 PM
- Friday11 AM–10 PM
- Saturday11 AM–10 PM
- Sunday11 AM–9 PM
Ponce’s Mexican Restaurant
Ponce's Mexican Restaurant is a family-owned and operated restaurant that has been serving San Diego for over 55 years. The restaurant is known for its delicious Mexican comfort food and award-winning margaritas. They offer a variety of traditional Mexican dishes, including tacos, enchiladas, and fajitas, as well as a range of vegetarian and gluten-free options. Ponce's Mexican Restaurant has been a San Diego favorite for decades, and has received numerous awards and accolades, including being named the Best Mexican Restaurant by the San Diego Union Tribune and the Reader. They are proud to be a part of the San Diego community and strive to provide excellent service and a welcoming atmosphere for their customers. Whether you're looking for a casual dining experience or a special occasion, Ponce's Mexican Restaurant is the perfect choice. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, Monday through Saturday, and offers catering services for events and parties. They also offer a mobile taco cart and a pop-up margarita bar for special events. Ponce's Mexican Restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal and experience the rich flavors and traditions of Mexican cuisine.
- 4050 Adams Ave, San Diego, CA 92116
- Mid-City
- (619) 282-4413
- poncesrestaurant.com
- Today: 12 AM–4 PM
Opening hours
- Monday11 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday11 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday11 AM–9 PM
- Thursday11 AM–9 PM
- Friday11 AM–9 PM
- Saturday11 AM–9 PM
- Sunday12 AM–4 PM
Pokez Mexican Restaurant
Pokez Mexican Restaurant is a family-owned and operated eatery that has been serving the community in downtown San Diego since 1994. It is renowned for its vegan and vegetarian-friendly options, which are a testament to its commitment to catering to diverse dietary preferences while maintaining its core values. Pokez offers a wide variety of traditional Mexican dishes, including burritos, tacos, and enchiladas, with a focus on using fresh, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant's menu is extensive, with numerous options for both meat-eaters and vegetarians. Some of the standout dishes include the vegan burrito, which features a generous portion of tofu, potato, and mushroom, and the California burrito, which is a vegan and vegetarian favorite. Pokez also offers a range of vegan and vegetarian options, including tofu tostadas, potato tacos, and a variety of plant-based milks and cheeses. The restaurant's menu is designed to cater to a range of tastes and dietary needs, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. Pokez has received rave reviews from customers, who praise the restaurant's friendly service, generous portions, and delicious food. Many reviewers have noted that Pokez is a hidden gem in downtown San Diego, offering a unique and authentic dining experience that is both affordable and satisfying. With its commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and its extensive menu of vegan and vegetarian options, Pokez is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a delicious and satisfying meal in downtown San Diego.
- 947 E St, San Diego, CA 92101
- Downtown San Diego
- (619) 702-7160
- pokezmexicanrestaurant.com
- Today: 9 AM–8 PM
Opening hours
- Monday10 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday10 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday10 AM–9 PM
- Thursday10 AM–10 PM
- Friday10 AM–10 PM
- Saturday9 AM–10 PM
- Sunday9 AM–8 PM
Papas & Tacos Mexican Food
Papas & Tacos Mexican Food is a business that serves fresh, Mexican-inspired food in a fun and welcoming atmosphere. Founded in 1989 by Juan and Maria Diaz in San Diego, California, the business has over 30 years of experience in the Mexican Food industry. The menu features a variety of cali-inspired dishes, including breakfast burritos, pollo asado burritos, and tacos. The business offers a range of options, including grilled tortillas, crispy potatoes, and flavorful salsas. Customers have praised the quality and freshness of the food, with one reviewer noting that the tortilla was "grilled well" and the potatoes were "crispy but soft on the inside." Another reviewer appreciated the "super juicy and tender" chicken in the pollo asado burrito. The business also offers a variety of drinks, including a wide selection of tasty options. Papas & Tacos Mexican Food is a small, family-owned business that prides itself on serving great, fresh food with friendly service. The business has been voted "Best in San Diego" and continues to appreciate the loyalty of its customers. With a simple philosophy of serving great food in a fun atmosphere, Papas & Tacos Mexican Food is a great place to try for a delicious and authentic Mexican meal.
- 2239 First Ave., San Diego, CA 92101
- Bankers Hill
- (619) 233-6079
- mypapastacos.com
- Today: 9:30 AM–6 PM
Opening hours
- Monday9:30 AM–8 PM
- Tuesday9:30 AM–8 PM
- Wednesday9:30 AM–8 PM
- Thursday9:30 AM–8 PM
- Friday9:30 AM–8 PM
- Saturday9:30 AM–6 PM
- Sunday9:30 AM–6 PM
Oscars Mexican Seafood
Oscar's Mexican Seafood is a casual, local shop serving up fresh, flavorful Mexican seafood delights. It is a popular spot for fish tacos, as well as other seafood items, and has a reputation for offering high-quality, authentic Mexican cuisine. The shop has a simple menu, good prices, and excellent food, with a specialty in the fried fish taco. The shop's specialty is the fried fish taco, which features a battered fish, cabbage, onion, tomato, and cilantro. They also offer a variety of other seafood options, including ceviche, fish stew, and tortas. The shop's menu is designed to be easy to navigate, with clear descriptions of each dish and a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. The shop's service is friendly and attentive, with a focus on providing a welcoming and enjoyable dining experience. Oscar's Mexican Seafood is a great option for those looking for a quick and satisfying bite of Mexican seafood. The shop's prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous, making it a great value for the price. The shop's menu is designed to appeal to a wide range of tastes and dietary needs, and the service is attentive and friendly. Whether you're in the mood for a fish taco, a ceviche, or a hearty seafood stew, Oscar's Mexican Seafood is a great option for anyone looking for fresh, delicious Mexican seafood.
- 646 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103
- Hillcrest
- (619) 230-5560
- oscarsmexicanseafood.com
- Today: 8 AM–9 PM
Opening hours
- Monday8 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday8 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday8 AM–9 PM
- Thursday8 AM–9 PM
- Friday8 AM–10 PM
- Saturday8 AM–10 PM
- Sunday8 AM–9 PM
Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina
Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina is a Mexican restaurant located in Old Town San Diego, perched above the Hacienda Hotel. The restaurant offers a festive atmosphere with rooftop views, familiar Mexican cuisine, and a wide selection of tequilas. It is a popular spot for brunch, Taco Tuesday, and private events. The restaurant's menu celebrates bold, authentic flavors inspired by the flavors of Baja California, Southern California, and the recipes passed down by the señoras of Mexico. The menu features a variety of dishes, including mesquite-fired specialties, handcrafted tacos, and shareable plates, as well as fresh salads, seafood, gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, and lighter California-inspired dishes. The restaurant is known for its delicious fajitas, nachos, and brunch options, which are available on Saturdays and Sundays. Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina is a popular spot for both locals and visitors, offering a welcoming atmosphere and exceptional service. The restaurant has received high praise for its Saturday and Sunday Champagne Brunch, which offers a great selection of food and drinks at a reasonable price. The restaurant's rooftop patio offers stunning views of Old Town San Diego, making it a great spot for special occasions and events.
- 2467 Juan St, San Diego, CA 92110
- Old Town
- (619) 260-8124
- oldtowntequilafactory.com
- Today: 11 AM–3 PM, 4–10 PM
Opening hours
- Monday4–10 PM
- Tuesday4–10 PM
- Wednesday4–10 PM
- Thursday4–10 PM
- Friday4–11 PM
- Saturday11 AM–3 PM, 4–11 PM
- Sunday11 AM–3 PM, 4–10 PM
Ocho Mexican Food & Cafe
Ocho is a Mexican cafe serving a variety of dishes, including tacos, burritos, and fries & nachos. It offers a menu featuring items such as Surf & Turf, which includes steak, shrimp, guacamole, chipotle sauce, cheese, and cilantro, as well as Tacos with guacamole, onion, and cilantro. Ocho's menu also includes breakfast items like breakfast burritos and breakfast plates. Ocho is a restaurant that serves Mexican food, with a focus on using high-quality ingredients and traditional Mexican flavors. Its menu includes a variety of options for different tastes and dietary preferences, such as vegetarian and meat-lovers' choices. The cafe is open seven days a week, with extended hours on weekdays and shorter hours on Sundays. Ocho is a business that caters to customers in the Bankers Hill area of San Diego, California, with a physical location at 1870 Fourth Ave. It offers takeout and delivery options, allowing customers to enjoy its food at home or on-the-go. The cafe's online ordering system allows customers to place orders and pay online, making it convenient for those with busy schedules or who prefer to order ahead.
- 1870 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
- Bankers Hill
- (619) 310-5252
- ochomexfood.com
- Today: 8 AM–4 PM
Opening hours
- Monday7 AM–8 PM
- Tuesday7 AM–8 PM
- Wednesday7 AM–8 PM
- Thursday7 AM–8 PM
- Friday7 AM–8 PM
- Saturday7 AM–8 PM
- Sunday8 AM–4 PM
Mike’s Red Tacos – Clairemont Mesa
Mike's Red Tacos is a Mexican restaurant that specializes in bold, flavorful birria made the right way. Their beef birria is slow-simmered for hours until it's rich, tender, and packed with flavor, then served in their red-dipped tacos grilled crispy and paired with warm consomé for dipping or sipping. They're best known for their birria tacos, but their menu also includes customer favorites like birria ramen, the birria crunchstack, loaded fries, nachos, Cali burritos, red quesadillas, breakfast burritos, veggie tacos, chips, queso, guac, and more. Mike's Red Tacos has a strong presence in the San Diego area, with multiple locations and a loyal following. Their food is delicious, with many customers raving about the quality and flavors of the dishes. The restaurant is known for its exceptional service, with staff being friendly, proactive, and welcoming. They also have a salsa bar and an area where you can get your own fountain drinks, making it a great choice for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. Mike's Red Tacos is a great option for those looking for authentic and delicious birria tacos. With their slow-cooked, tender beef birria and a variety of options, including halal beef, they cater to a diverse range of tastes. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Mike's Red Tacos is a great choice for anyone looking for some of the best birria tacos in San Diego.
- 4310 Genesee Ave Ste 105, San Diego, CA 92117
- Clairemont Mesa West
- (858) 737-4299
- mikesredtacos.com
- Today: 10 AM–11 PM
Opening hours
- Monday10 AM–11 PM
- Tuesday10 AM–11 PM
- Wednesday10 AM–11 PM
- Thursday10 AM–11 PM
- Friday10 AM–12 AM
- Saturday10 AM–12 AM
- Sunday10 AM–11 PM