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Best Traditional Mexican Restaurants in National City

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13 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Kalaveras - Chula Vista restaurant
1. Kalaveras - Chula Vista
4.3
Awesome(117)
Price: Moderate
• Traditional mexican • Chula Vista / Bonita
Booked 8 times today
Kalaveras - Chula Vista offers an exhilarating dive into Contemporary Latin cuisine with its fusion of traditional and modern Mexican ingredients. Located in the vibrant Chula Vista, this restaurant excels by "elevating bold, authentic flavors" through chef-driven dishes that reflect a commitment to quality. Guests consistently rave about the "phenomenal food" and "amazing service," making it a standout destination for those seeking an authentic and innovative Latin dining experience. With a lively atmosphere and an impressive selection of over 90 tequilas and Mezcal spirits, Kalaveras provides a perfect setting for celebrations, offering a "delicious brunch" and "fantastic happy hour."
A photo of Cocina 35 Coronado restaurant
2. Cocina 35 Coronado
4.6
Exceptional(152)
Price: Expensive
• Traditional mexican • Coronado
Booked 93 times today
Our team is dedicated to bring to you the essence of Mexico, the flavors, aromas, culture, service and textures that were given to us, growing up cooking right next to our grandparents in Mexico.We are the only restaurant in San Diego that specialized in Chilaquiles the Most traditional Mexican Breakfast.#BESTCHILAQUILESINTOWN
A photo of Puesto at the Headquarters restaurant
3. Puesto at the Headquarters
4.6
Exceptional(3545)
Price: Expensive
• Traditional mexican • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 28 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 El Agave restaurant
4. El Agave
4.8
Exceptional(2506)
Price: Moderate
• Traditional 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 Cocina 35 Liberty Station restaurant
5. Cocina 35 Liberty Station
4.6
Exceptional(79)
Price: Moderate
• Traditional mexican • Shelter Island / San Diego Bay
Booked 53 times today
Our team is dedicated to bring to you the essence of Mexico, the flavors, aromas, culture, service and textures that were given to us, growing up cooking right next to our grandparents in Mexico.We are the only restaurant in San Diego that specialized in Chilaquiles the Most traditional Mexican Breakfast.
A photo of Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Fashion Valley restaurant
6. Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Fashion Valley
4.7
Exceptional(571)
Price: Moderate
• Traditional mexican • Mission Valley
Booked 8 times today
Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Fashion Valley is a standout destination in Mission Valley, San Diego for those seeking an exceptional cocktail bar experience. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and refreshing drinks, Blanco’s cocktail bar is a "perfect spot for sipping margaritas," as delighted patrons often rave. The spicy skinny margaritas are a particular highlight, earning consistent praise for their bold flavors and delightful presentation. With an inviting outdoor area featuring comfortable seating and heat lamps, it’s an ideal place to unwind. Whether you're enjoying a casual hangout or celebrating a special occasion, Blanco ensures your cocktail experience is nothing short of extraordinary.
A photo of Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina restaurant
7. Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina
4.1
Excellent(1154)
Price: Moderate
• Traditional mexican • Old Town
Booked 6 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 Barrio Star restaurant
8. Barrio Star
4.6
Exceptional(1103)
Price: Moderate
• Traditional mexican • Banker's Hill
Booked 3 times today
The sky’s the limit at Barrio Star--presenting San Diego with modern Mexican Soul Food woven with bold Latin flavors and clever Asian touches. As one of several restaurants created by award-winning chef and restaurateur Isabel Cruz, Barrio Star’s bright and lively décor is a metaphor for what we proudly serve. Our vibrant flavors and healthier renditions of classic Mexican dishes reveal thoughtfully presented menu items that are sure to please every palate. Pairing with our well-prepared food is a mouthwatering beer and cocktail menu. Besides serving standard Mexican beers, we also offer rotating drafts as well as an extensive tequila menu. Kickstart the evening with our roasted jalapeno blackberry margarita and let the fiesta begin!
A photo of Karina’s Cantina restaurant
9. Karina’s Cantina
4.5
Awesome(44)
Price: Moderate
• Traditional mexican • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 10 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 Casa De Freds, Tacos y Tequila restaurant
10. Casa De Freds, Tacos y Tequila
4.7
Exceptional(325)
Price: Moderate
• Traditional mexican • Old Town
Booked 2 times today
Casa De Freds, Tacos y Tequila, nestled in the heart of Old Town San Diego, has been the go-to spot for authentic Tex-Mex cuisine since 2001. This vibrant restaurant enchants diners with its "amazing tacos and appetizers" and "outstanding service." What truly sets Casa De Freds apart is its dedication to "quality food" made from fresh, high-quality ingredients, ensuring every bite is bursting with Baja-infused flavors. Guests rave about the "pure pleasure" of dining in their dog-friendly outdoor patio, making it a delightful experience for all. Whether you're a local or just visiting, Casa De Freds promises a festive and flavorful Tex-Mex feast!
‘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.

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
  • JillM
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    We had an excellent dinner and birthday celebration.
    More info
    Puesto at the HeadquartersPrice: Expensive• Mexican• Downtown / Gaslamp
    •
    4.6
  • OpenTable Diner
    Los Angeles •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Jason was the best server! His recommendations were right on. We were traveling, but will be back our next visit.
    More info
    Fresco CocinaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Carlsbad
    •
    4.6
  • FoodieintrainingVIP
    San Diego •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 15 Jan 2023
    We increased our party size from 4 to 6 people. The staff accommodated our request. The selection of food and beverages was fantastic but the taste was even better. The servers were engaging and polite and professional. Everything was served in a timely manner. Even after we left, it was down pouring and two of the employees opened the door and beckoned for us to come inside and wait out of the rain. We 6 were very pleased and highly recommend this fine establishment.
    More info
    Piedra SantaPrice: Expensive• Mexican / Southwestern• Tijuana
    •
    4.4

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