Valle’s El Sillón dining experience offers guests an abbreviated tasting menu when seated at the intimate bar tables. PHOTO BY LUZ HERNANDEZ
With its East Village location listed on the Michelin Guide, Lola 55 isn’t any ordinary eatery. Step inside to discover a glass-enclosed, lounge-like atmosphere dotted with the finest bottles, blue-hued seating and minimalistic decor. As for the food, prepare to be dazzled by an innovative selection of tacos, such as the mesquite chicken with punchy peanut macha salsa. If you’re heading north, stop by its sister spot in Carlsbad’s The Beacon La Costa.
First impressions matter, and Coasterra makes a perfect one with its panoramic views of San Diego Bay and incredible Mexican cuisine. The Harbor Island eatery ensures your meal is even more memorable with a gorgeous mural-painted dining room and solar-heated patio for comfortable outdoor dining. When ordering, opt for the famed ahi tuna tostada and the freshest Mexican paella for two—paired with a creamy Deb’s Coconut Margarita.
The famed Deb’s Coconut Margarita from Coasterra. PHOTO COURTESY OF COHN RESTAURANT GROUP
Executive chef Roberto Alcocer showcases the flavors and traditions of Mexico’s Baja California region at the Michelin-starred Valle using seasonal ingredients sourced from both sides of the border. Its location at the base of Mission Pacific Beach Resort makes for the perfect place to indulge in the chef’s seasonal eight-course tasting menu of sea-and-land-inspired plates while taking in beachfront views of the nearby Oceanside Pier.
With multiple outposts throughout San Diego, there’s no doubt that locals love the award-winning Puesto and its modern setting. Now, with creative chef Raul Casillas at the helm, the menu is reaching new heights. His latest must-try creations include a spring-inspired asparagus taco wrapped in a hoja santa tortilla and a decadent corn flan paired with the pre-Hispanic drink, atole, to balance its richness.
Crudo verde is just one of the incredible new menu items at Puesto. PHOTO BY MANDIE GELLER
At its Del Mar location, this beloved establishment serves Mexican favorites within minutes of the incredible beaches on which San Diego prides itself. On any given day, catch locals eating rich seafood enchiladas and picturesque shrimp taquitos. Sidle up to the bar for an array of flavorful margaritas—think tamarindo, smoky pineapple and toasted coconut—or pack a punch with a tequila flight.
Across from La Jolla’s University Town Center, Red O is the ultimate oasis for fine Mexican cuisine and picture-perfect drinks. Frequenters tout the inventive duck taquitos arranged artfully in tomato-àrbol chile sauce, the surf and turf tablita—a one-pound lobster tail with a 32-ounce tomahawk chop—and for a sweet finish, the tangy passion fruit butter cake.
Over the past 30 years, Javier’s has become a mainstay in the community—eventually making its way down from O.C. to La Jolla in 2018. Though many know Javier’s as a place to see-and-be-seen, the Mexican-style F&B is truly some of the best in the county. Endless rounds of chips and salsa, plates of cheesy enchiladas and crispy tacos, premier seafood dishes and center-cut prime Angus beef fill tables on any given night in this striking, design-forward space.
From Encinitas to Point Loma, Cocina De Barrio’s vibrant cuisine and atmosphere warmly welcome the San Diego community. Expect a stunning bar of top-shelf tequila and tropical interiors while indulging in chef Jose J. Flores’ thoughtful Mexican dishes—such as braised short ribs, churro French toast and refreshing mango habanero agua chile. Order a round of tangy popsicle margaritas to usher in the summer season.
EL AGAVE RESTAURANT & TAQUILERIA
Recognized for its tequila museum boasting over 2,000 varietals, El Agave offers incredible Mexican-Hispanic cuisine to match its impressive libation selection. Day or night, sit and explore the dishes locals have loved since 1996—including enchiladas saturated in a deeply hued mole sauce or the decadent chile relleno.
Over in the Gaslamp Quarter, Karina’s Cantina is plating up seafood delicacies with a Mexican spin. Since 1981, this iconic establishment has served plenty of eager diners in its bright, beautifully decorated space. Though ice-cold ceviches and a wide range of seafood-style dishes are enticing, try the land-inspired fare, including tableside guacamole and carnitas.
The ambiance at Karina’s Cantina adds a luxurious feel to any meal. PHOTO COURTESY OF KARINA’S GROUP
Photography by: LUZ HERNANDEZ
