Best Traditional Mexican Restaurants in San Diego

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Price

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Regions

East CountySan Diego

Neighborhoods

Barrio LoganBay ParkCoronadoDowntownGrantvilleHarbor Island

Top Rated

CharmingDog-friendlyFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasions

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

38 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

1. Mr. Tempo Gaslamp

3.8

Excellent(206)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Downtown

Booked 5 times today

Mr. Tempo a unique experience brought by the successful restaurateur Jorge Cueva also known as MR. TEMPO! Enjoy a variety of unique and delicious dishes from seafood, sushi, steak, tacos and more. Our specialty is margaritas and cocktails. #maschingon

2. Karina’s Cantina

4.4

Awesome(46)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Downtown

Booked 14 times today

Simply entering a Karina’s establishment can be a sensory overload. Images, color, music, exquisite aromas and warm hospitality are surrounded by traditional Mexican figures, art and culture. Specially commissioned portraits of Frida Khalo and many of the superstars of classic Mexican cinema grace the walls of Karina’s. The sounds of Mexico with our engaging Mariachi, especially when singing of lost love, are a portrait of Mexico that our Mexican and American clientele alike delight in. Karina’s was founded on the idea of offering traditional Mexican style family cuisine made with the passion of the founding family to make everyone feel like familia.For three generations, each member of the Contreras Curiel Family has passionately and diligently worked year round for over three decades to offer a personalized services that make each guest feel at home.Wherever a Karina’s establishment is found, there will always be a piece of Mexico

A photo of Mr. Tempo Sports Bar restaurant

3. Mr. Tempo Sports Bar

4.0

Excellent(4)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Barrio Logan

Booked 1 time today

MR.TEMPO SPORTS BARUNIQUE EXPERIENCE. GOOD VIBES ONLY! #MASCHINGON

A photo of Puesto at the Headquarters restaurant

4. Puesto at the Headquarters

4.6

Exceptional(3554)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Traditional mexican • Downtown

Booked 36 times today

Puesto at the Headquarters in Downtown San Diego serves up an exceptional Traditional Mexican experience that is both authentic and innovative. Known for their acclaimed Mexico City-style crispy melted cheese tacos, each bite is a celebration of flavor on handmade, non-GMO, organic maíz azul stone-ground tortillas. "The tacos are fabulous and unique," praise diners, emphasizing the filet mignon and shrimp as standout choices. The vibrant atmosphere complements their culinary delights, with handcrafted cocktails and a curated selection of tequilas and mezcals enhancing the experience. For those seeking genuine Mexican flavors with a modern twist, Puesto is "100% a must go."

A photo of Cocina 35 - Downtown restaurant

5. Cocina 35 - Downtown

4.4

Awesome(57)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Downtown

Booked 9 times today

Breakfast? you got to try the Best Chilaquiles in San Diego!

A photo of Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar restaurant

6. Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar

4.6

Exceptional(213)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Little Italy

Booked 11 times today

Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar in Little Italy, San Diego, offers an exceptional seafood dining experience that transports your taste buds straight to the vibrant coasts of Baja. Revered for its "excellent fresh fish" and "super fresh oysters," this culinary gem crafts each dish with quality ingredients and meticulous attention to detail. Diners rave about the "creative crudo, ceviche, and aguachile," each plate a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to authenticity and flavor. The unique tostadas are described as "a work of art," adding a visual feast to the already irresistible flavors. Crudo promises a seafood adventure that is "worth several visits."

A photo of Miguel's - Portside Pier restaurant

7. Miguel's - Portside Pier

4.7

Exceptional(205)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Downtown

Booked 28 times today

Miguel's - Portside Pier in Downtown San Diego is a seafood lover's paradise, offering a delightful array of authentic Mexican dishes with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Patrons rave about the "Sonoran grilled swordfish tacos," which capture the true spirit of Mexican cuisine. The restaurant boasts a vibrant atmosphere overlooking the mesmerizing San Diego Bay, making it a fantastic spot for locals and tourists alike. Guests frequently commend the "fantastic" and "authentic" taste of the seafood, while the friendly and attentive staff ensure a memorable dining experience. For anyone craving exquisite seafood with a Mexican flair, Miguel's is a must-visit destination.

8. Camino Riviera

4.6

Exceptional(44)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Traditional mexican • Little Italy

Booked 14 times today

Camino Riviera in Little Italy, San Diego, offers an exceptional Cocktail Bar experience that is both authentic and innovative. The bar program is anchored in classic cocktails but shines with its diverse selection of rare mezcal and tequila, celebrating the rich spirits and flavors of Latin America. Patrons rave about the "incredibly well-crafted drinks" and the knowledgeable staff, who provide insightful recommendations and elevate the entire cocktail experience. The ambiance, described as "inviting and beautifully decorated," perfectly complements the exquisite drinks. Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or new to the scene, Camino Riviera promises a memorable and delightful evening.

A photo of Puesto Mission Valley restaurant

9. Puesto Mission Valley

4.7

Exceptional(2066)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Mission Valley

Booked 45 times today

Puesto Mission Valley is a vibrant gem in the heart of San Diego, delivering exceptional Contemporary Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. Family-owned and operated, Puesto stands out with its commitment to authenticity and innovation. Diners rave about the "amazingly tasty and flavorful" tacos crafted from non-GMO, organic, heirloom blue corn tortillas, perfectly complemented by their scratch salsas. The restaurant is well-known for its "outstanding food and service," with patrons frequently praising the "superb" filet mignon tacos and "show-stopping" guacamole. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying Taco Tuesday, Puesto promises an unforgettable dining experience that keeps guests coming back.

10. El Agave

4.8

Exceptional(2530)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Old Town

Booked 28 times today

El Agave in Old Town, San Diego, is a beacon of Traditional Mexican cuisine that captures the heart and soul of Mexico with every dish. Established in 1996, this restaurant not only offers "delicious Margie and food" but also boasts the largest tequila museum in the United States, with over 3,000 tequilas on display. Renowned for its impeccable service and "unique and beautiful" decor, El Agave is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Guests rave about its "authentic, no refried beans" dishes and the "best mole in town," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine Mexican culinary experience.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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Neighborhood
Cuisine Nearby
Traditional mexican Cuisine

San Diego

Traditional mexican

Little Italy
Solana Beach
Kearny Mesa
Coronado
Carmel Valley
South Park
La Mesa
Del Mar
Downtown
Mission Hills
Pacific Beach
University City/Golden Triangle
Clairemont
Barrio Logan
Hillcrest
Linda Vista
Kensington
Chula Vista / Bonita
Cardiff By The Sea
Lemon Grove