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Best Contemporary Mexican Restaurants in Old Town

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16 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Tahona Bar restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(648)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary mexican • Old Town
Booked 13 times today
Tahona Bar in Old Town, San Diego is a gem for lovers of authentic Latin American cuisine, specializing in "contemporary Mexican delights with a focus on Oaxacan bites." This first-of-its-kind mezcal bar in the area promises an unforgettable dining experience, with craft cocktails and a mezcal tasting room that evoke the rich traditions of Mexico. The vibrant atmosphere, enhanced by "hand-clayed walls and traditionally crafted Oaxacan fabrics," creates a truly immersive experience. Glowing reviews commend the "innovative tacos" and "excellent fresh Mexican food," ensuring that each visit is "not your typical Mexican food" but a delightful journey to the heart of Latin America.
A photo of Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina restaurant
4.1
Excellent(1154)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary mexican • Old Town
Booked 7 times today
Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina is an exceptional spot for authentic American cuisine, offering a delightful experience in the heart of San Diego’s historic Old Town. Diners rave about the "great service" and "fantastic views," making it an ideal destination for both locals and visitors. The rooftop setting adds a unique charm, perfect for a sunset dinner. The Sunday Champagne brunch is a standout, described as "excellent" with "lots to choose from." Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, the "impeccable service" and delicious food ensure a memorable dining experience.
A photo of Miguel's Cocina - Old Town restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(38)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary mexican • Old Town
Booked 11 times today
Miguel's Cocina - Old Town offers an impressive showcase of Contemporary Mexican cuisine, blending Cali-inspired flavors with authentic Mexican roots. Located in the heart of Old Town, San Diego, this family-friendly restaurant is renowned for its "handmade tortillas and mouthwatering salsas," setting it apart as a must-visit dining destination. Guests rave about the "famous creamy jalapeno white sauce" and the "best guacamole ever," highlighting the restaurant’s commitment to quality and taste. With a lively atmosphere and dishes like Fajitas Supreme and carne asada, Miguel's Cocina promises an unforgettable culinary experience, perfect for both locals and visitors alike.
A photo of El Agave restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2506)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary mexican • Old Town
Booked 36 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.
A photo of Camino Riviera restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(39)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary mexican • Little Italy
Booked 17 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
4.6
Exceptional(2050)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary mexican • Mission Valley
Booked 41 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.
A photo of Puesto at the Headquarters restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3545)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary mexican • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 29 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 Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(195)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary mexican • Little Italy
Booked 14 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 Cocina de Barrio North Park restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(11)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary mexican • North Park
Booked 9 times today
*Brunch hours are on a walk-in basis only.Cocina de Barrio by Chef Jose J. FloresWelcome to Cocina de Barrio, the newest modern-urban Mexican restaurant located in North Park! We are proud to feature the culinary richness of Oaxaca as well as other Mexican regions. Stop by and enjoy our bar stocked with plenty of tequila and mezcal selections, beer, and wines sourced from Valle Guadalupe.Don't forget to join us during our daily brunch (where we add a Mexican kick) and our happy hour every Monday-Friday from 3-5pm! Stay Chido!
A photo of Baja Betty's restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(352)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary mexican • Hillcrest
Booked 5 times today
Baja Betty's in Hillcrest, San Diego, is a vibrant destination for Contemporary Mexican cuisine that delights the senses with its creative Tex-Mex inspired dishes. Known for its energetic atmosphere and "scrumptious" food, Baja Betty's offers an authentic dining experience that keeps guests coming back for more. The menu showcases fresh ingredients in dishes like the "incredible" chicken mole and allows diners to personalize their meals with build-your-own burritos or bowls. Signature margaritas and a wide selection of tequilas perfectly complement the flavorful fare. "Always a fun time at Betty's," the exceptional service and lively environment make it a must-visit spot for anyone seeking a memorable meal.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • SchiekyVIP
    Los Angeles •113 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    The bar tender mixes the best drinks! I had a “tequila mule” and a “Frida and Diego” and my wife had “La Rosita.” The food is so great I ordered the octopus appetizer and the cilantro soup and my wife had duck burritos and Salad. The names are simple. The flavors stay with you all night and on. The staff make it greater.
    More info
    El AgavePrice: Moderate• Mexican• Old Town
    4.8
  • Moris
    San Diego •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Great location , easy parking , great food and exceptional service !
    More info
    Puesto Mission ValleyPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Mission Valley
    4.6
  • OpenTable DinerVIP
    San Diego •2 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    The food is a 5* for sure. They have large servings as well. The carnitas enchiladas were bomb, the steak and shrimp fajitas also bomb. The service was a 3*... the waitress was a bit rude. We had 8 total with 4 kids with us, she was not friendly. I noticed the attitude and didn't say anything, then my husband noticed and told me she wasn't friendly. Our kids were well behaved and we weren't difficult with orders or anything so not sure what was up. I would not consider this place kid friendly for a few reasons. 1. No activity sheet with crayons for kids, they gave us 1 kids menu for both of our families to share, not sure they were low or what but we asked for two and were told they only had 1. They don't have kids cups with lids and straws, this alone is almost worth not going back. Both the 4 year olds spilled their water and were playing with it. Their cups for the kids were just open cups. If you get kids cups with kids and straws then let us know and we will be back. The alcoholic drinks were okay. I sensed some carbonation in the skinny margarita which I hate, the menu did not say it had soda water. The glass was skinny and tall, I personally look forward to the classic old fashioned double walled glasses. The tajin rim was weak too. Overall the food was so good almost worth going back for but would love to see some friendlier service and kids cups.
    More info
    Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & CantinaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Old Town
    4.1
  • DaisyVIP
    San Diego •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 27 Feb 2025
    Such a fun atmosphere. We ordered all of the server's recommendations and they were all amazing. The menu is made for sharing which is nice because you can try more things.
    More info
    Camino RivieraPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Mexican• Little Italy
    4.6
  • Maggie
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on 22 Feb 2025
    Our experience tonight was great. Although we had a reservation, we got in right away as we were a little early.
    More info
    Miguel's Cocina - Old TownPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Old Town
    4.6

Discover best Contemporary Mexican restaurants in Old Town

Discover the vibrant and innovative dining scene of San Diego's Old Town with a focus on contemporary Mexican cuisine. Old Town is celebrated for its rich history and cultural heritage, which is brilliantly reflected in its culinary offerings. Here, restaurants masterfully blend traditional Mexican flavors with modern culinary techniques, creating unique and memorable dining experiences. Whether you're a local foodie or a visitor looking to explore San Diego's gastronomy, the restaurants in Old Town offer a diverse range of options that cater to various tastes and preferences. The area is not only known for its historical significance but also for its lively atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for both casual dinners and special occasions. From rooftop dining that offers panoramic views of the city to intimate settings that provide a cozy ambiance, each restaurant aims to enhance your dining experience with exceptional service and authentic dishes. Embrace the opportunity to indulge in innovative Mexican cuisine that promises not only a meal but a journey through taste and tradition in the heart of San Diego's Old Town.

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