Best Traditional Mexican Restaurants in University Heights

12 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Puesto at the Headquarters restaurant

1. Puesto at the Headquarters

4.6

Exceptional(3507)

Price: Expensive

• Traditional mexican • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 46 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."

2. El Agave

4.7

Exceptional(2480)

Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Old Town

Booked 27 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 Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Fashion Valley restaurant

3. Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Fashion Valley

4.8

Exceptional(560)

Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Mission Valley

Booked 9 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 Cocina 35 Coronado restaurant

4. Cocina 35 Coronado

new

4.7

Exceptional(19)

Price: Expensive

• Traditional mexican • Coronado

Booked 37 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 Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina restaurant

5. Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina

3.9

Excellent(1147)

Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Old Town

Booked 10 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 Cocina 35 Liberty Station restaurant

6. Cocina 35 Liberty Station

4.8

Exceptional(25)

Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Shelter Island / San Diego Bay

Booked 51 times today

7. Barrio Star

4.6

Exceptional(1094)

Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Banker's Hill

Booked 1 time 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 Casa De Freds, Tacos y Tequila restaurant

8. Casa De Freds, Tacos y Tequila

4.5

Awesome(321)

Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Old Town

Booked 4 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!

9. Karina’s Cantina

4.4

Awesome(40)

Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Downtown / Gaslamp

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

10. Puesto La Jolla

4.6

Exceptional(2131)

Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • La Jolla

Booked 75 times today

Puesto La Jolla is a culinary gem in the heart of La Jolla, San Diego, celebrated for its exceptional Contemporary Mexican cuisine. This Mexican Artisan Kitchen & Bar delivers "incredible tacos" that leave a lasting impression, especially the renowned filet mignon and shrimp tacos. Puesto's innovative approach to authentic Mexican flavors is evident in the crispy melted cheese tacos, crafted on handmade non-GMO, organic, maíz azul stone-ground tortillas. Guests rave about the "artistic, creative, and delicious" dishes, complemented by a stellar bar program featuring handcrafted cocktails and unique Mexican spirits. With accolades from the Michelin Guide and rave reviews, Puesto promises a "fantastic vibe" and an unforgettable dining 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.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

J
JodieVIP
Phoenix / Arizona •24 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
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
S
SusanVIP
Atlanta Metro •12 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
So happy to be back & satisfy my craving for their mole! I love the trio so I get to taste all three side-by-side. As always service was amazing! Beto (Alberto) even tried to fix the wobbly table.
More info
El AgavePrice: Moderate• Mexican• Old Town
•
4.7
A
Ariana
Phoenix / Arizona •1 review
5.0
Dined on 25 Dec 2024
Taco Tuesday and happy hour deals were great. We sat in the lounge and had great service as well.
More info
Miguel's Cocina - CarlsbadPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Carlsbad
•
4.5
C
CatherineVIP
London •12 reviews
4.0
Dined on 24 Dec 2024
Service at the bar was terrific! The bartender, Ruben, I think was his name, was friendly and made a great mocktail and terrific drinks. We each ordered three different tacos, which were excellent, but they took a little while to arrive… perhaps that’s because we had appetizers at the bar beforehand so I guess we expected the food to arrive a little quickly. Overall, a great experience with Mexican food.
More info
Puesto at the HeadquartersPrice: Expensive• Mexican• Downtown / Gaslamp
•
4.6

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Best Traditional Mexican Restaurants in University Heights

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12 restaurants available nearby

1. Puesto at the Headquarters

2. El Agave

3. Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Fashion Valley

4. Cocina 35 Coronado

5. Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina

6. Cocina 35 Liberty Station

7. Barrio Star

8. Casa De Freds, Tacos y Tequila

9. Karina’s Cantina

10. Puesto La Jolla

See what locals rave about

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