From the moment you step through the ornate entrance of RED O Taste of Mexico in La Jolla, you know you’re in for something extraordinary. High ceilings, an elegant and spacious bar, and a dining room built around a striking tree adorned with glowing lanterns set the stage for a dining experience that’s equal parts sophisticated and electric.
But let’s talk food—because RED O isn’t just a feast for the eyes. This Mexican haven brings authentic flavors to life with authentic recipes and scratch-made sauces crafted from ingredients sourced straight from Mexico. It’s a place where culinary tradition meets modern indulgence, and every dish is a showstopper.
RED O caters to every craving with lunch, dinner, weekend brunch, and a lively happy hour. But let’s not forget the weekly celebrations: Taco Tuesday for the purists, and the brand-new Fire It Up Fridays for those who like a little spectacle with their supper. Fire It Up Fridays feature live Spanish guitarists setting the mood, a sizzling $99 tomahawk dinner, an oyster special, and smoke & fire-inspired cocktails that make every sip feel like a special occasion.
While you can’t go wrong with the Mexican standbys—think bubbling Enchiladas Suizas or sizzling fajitas—RED O's signature dishes are what elevate it to legendary status. The Surf & Turf Tablita is a must for those who believe more is more. A one-pound lobster tail, a grilled 32-ounce tomahawk chop, herb butter, sautéed peppers and onions, refried beans, red rice, pico de gallo, classic guacamole, and fresh tortillas—yes, all of that—arrives at your table, practically demanding to be shared.
If you’re looking for depth of flavor, the Grilled Rack of Lamb in Mole Negro will make your taste buds sing. Tender lamb is paired with braised cipollini onions, asparagus, English peas, lemon zest, and a deeply rich mole negro that brings smoky, sweet, and savory into perfect harmony. And for comfort food with a gourmet twist, the Slow-Braised Carnitas, served with pinto beans, escabeche, poblano, and tomatillo broth, is a warm, soul-hugging delight.
To drink? The margaritas are legendary—available in an array of flavors and even by the pitcher. If you’re feeling adventurous, the Flor de Alma craft cocktail is a dazzling choice, blending blanco tequila, hibiscus syrup, Napoleon Mandarin, lime juice, agave, and golden sugar rim, all topped with a fiery lime boat garnish.
And just when you think you can’t take another bite, dessert arrives to prove you wrong. The Passion Fruit Butter Cake, with fresh strawberries, passion fruit custard, coconut crumble, and coconut ice cream, is a sweet-and-tart masterpiece. But if you can’t decide, go for the ultimate indulgence: a dessert platter featuring three housemade confections.
Whether you're here for a casual Taco Tuesday or a high-energy Fire It Up Friday, RED O Taste of Mexico is more than just a restaurant—it’s a feast, a celebration, and an experience you won’t soon forget.
RED O Taste of Mexico
949-718-0300
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