Best Traditional Mexican Restaurants in National City

13 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Kalaveras - Chula Vista restaurant

1. Kalaveras - Chula Vista

4.6

Exceptional(107)

Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Chula Vista / Bonita

Booked 7 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 Puesto at the Headquarters restaurant

2. Puesto at the Headquarters

4.6

Exceptional(3509)

Price: Expensive

• Traditional mexican • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 68 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 Coronado restaurant

3. Cocina 35 Coronado

new

4.7

Exceptional(28)

Price: Expensive

• Traditional mexican • Coronado

Booked 50 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

4. El Agave

4.7

Exceptional(2484)

Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Old Town

Booked 34 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.

5. Casa Gabriela

4.6

Exceptional(764)

Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • La Mesa

Booked 50 times today

Casa Gabriela in Downtown La Mesa is a breakfast haven that seamlessly blends authentic Mexican flavors with a modern twist. Chef Gabriela Lopez masterfully infuses her Guadalajara roots with Tijuana influences, offering a breakfast menu that stands out for its quality and creativity. Guests rave about the "best brunches in SD," highlighting dishes like the scrumptious breakfast burrito and the delightful chilaquiles with salsa verde. The ambiance is equally enticing, with a charming garden patio that enhances the dining experience. Casa Gabriela's breakfast offerings are a symphony of flavors that promise to transport you to the heart of Mexico with every bite.

A photo of Cocina 35 Liberty Station restaurant

6. Cocina 35 Liberty Station

4.8

Exceptional(27)

Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Shelter Island / San Diego Bay

Booked 38 times today

A photo of Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Fashion Valley restaurant

7. Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Fashion Valley

4.7

Exceptional(561)

Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Mission Valley

Booked 17 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

8. Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina

3.9

Excellent(1148)

Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Old Town

Booked 14 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.

9. Barrio Star

4.6

Exceptional(1095)

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!

10. Karina’s Cantina

4.4

Awesome(40)

Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 8 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

‘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

J
Jennifer
California Central Coast •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
A little on the pricy side for the size of tacos. Food was delicious.
More info
Puesto at the HeadquartersPrice: Expensive• Mexican• Downtown / Gaslamp
•
4.6
E
Eric
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
It’s refreshing that this level of customer service still exists. Starting off with the hostess, she was incredible. Very welcoming, very polite and was willing to make a minor adjustment to our preferred seating section. The bartenders were also incredible. I left it in their hands to make a recommendation and I was appreciative that they didn’t try to sell me a $100 shot of tequila. They gave me something middle of the road that was incredible.
More info
El AgavePrice: Moderate• Mexican• Old Town
•
4.7
J
JodieVIP
Phoenix / Arizona •24 reviews
5.0
Dined on 29 Dec 2024
Great place to watch the game on Sunday. Drinks, food and service were excellent. Short rib eggs Benedict was awesome and don’t forget about the passion fruit creme brûlée !
More info
Fresco CocinaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Carlsbad
•
4.6
F
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

Explore OpenTable

National City

Traditional mexican

Best Traditional Mexican Restaurants in National City

Price

Regions

Areas

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating options

Accessibility

13 restaurants available nearby

1. Kalaveras - Chula Vista

2. Puesto at the Headquarters

3. Cocina 35 Coronado

4. El Agave

5. Casa Gabriela

6. Cocina 35 Liberty Station

7. Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Fashion Valley

8. Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina

9. Barrio Star

10. Karina’s Cantina

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable