Best Contemporary Mexican Restaurants in San Diego

16 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Puesto Mission Valley restaurant

1. Puesto Mission Valley

4.6

Exceptional(1996)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary mexican • Mission Valley

Booked 56 times today

Puesto Mission Valley in San Diego epitomizes the essence of authentic, innovative Mexican cuisine, delighting diners with its fresh, non-GMO organic ingredients and heirloom Masienda blue corn tortillas. Celebrated for its "Mexico City-inspired tacos," each dish is a burst of flavor and tradition, with "the filet mignon tacos" often hailed as a must-try. The restaurant prides itself on its vibrant ambiance and exceptional service, making every dining experience memorable. Guests rave about the "amazing food and service," noting that the coconut margarita and pozole taco are standout choices. Puesto consistently exceeds expectations, offering a culinary journey that is both genuine and extraordinary, right in the heart of Mission Valley.

2. El Agave

4.7

Exceptional(2479)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary mexican • Old Town

Booked 25 times today

El Agave in Old Town, San Diego, is a beacon of Contemporary Mexican cuisine, delighting patrons with its authentic and upscale offerings since 1996. Celebrated for housing the largest tequila museum in the U.S., this restaurant offers more than just a meal; it's a cultural experience. Diners rave about the "top tier authentic Mexican food" and the unbeatable atmosphere that makes every visit memorable. Favorite dishes like the ribeye tacos, tequila shrimp, and sopecitos are consistently praised for their excellence. As described by a satisfied guest, "the food, service, and drinks were phenomenal!" El Agave's commitment to quality and authenticity makes it a standout destination for those seeking the best in Mexican cuisine.

3. Camino Riviera

4.8

Exceptional(33)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary mexican • Little Italy

Booked 10 times today

At Camino Riviera in Little Italy, San Diego, diners are transported on a full sensory journey through the flavors of Yucatán, perfectly blending traditional Latin American essence with a modern twist. The culinary expertise of SDCM Corporate Executive Chef, Brian Redzikowski, shines through an eclectic menu that is both avant-garde and authentically Mexican. Celebrated for its unique atmosphere, Camino Riviera is not just a dining experience but a vibrant social hub. Reviewers rave about the "amazing food" and "exceptional drinks," with cocktails like "Tupac's Revenge" being a crowd favorite. The ambiance is described as "sultry," perfect for an unforgettable evening, with a bar program that honors Latin America's rich spirit heritage, featuring rare mezcal and tequila. Whether it's for the gourmet cuisine, the crafted drinks, or the dance floor vibes, Camino Riviera stands out as a top destination for Latin American culinary excellence in San Diego.

4. Tahona Bar

4.5

Awesome(627)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary mexican • Old Town

Booked 22 times today

Tahona Bar, nestled in the historic Old Town of San Diego, is a beacon of Latin American culinary excellence, particularly celebrated for its innovative approach to Mexican cuisine and its extensive mezcal offerings. The restaurant transports diners to a modern Mexican hacienda, complete with traditionally crafted décor and a vibrant atmosphere. Guests rave about the authenticity and creativity of the dishes, with one patron exclaiming, "The food here is amazing! All of the tacos are so creative and delicious" and another highlighting the "incredible flavors" that make Tahona a must-visit. The mezcal cocktails, described as "unique, complex, and delicious," along with their award-winning mixologists, ensure that every visit is both memorable and delightful. Tahona Bar stands out not just for its food but for an all-encompassing Latin American dining experience that is both intimate and exhilarating.

A photo of Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina restaurant

5. Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina

3.9

Excellent(1146)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary mexican • Old Town

Booked 14 times today

Nestled in the historic heart of Old Town, San Diego, Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina offers a spectacular blend of contemporary Mexican cuisine and panoramic views. Praised for its "stellar taco bar" and "delicious authentic Mexican food," this charming rooftop venue serves dishes crafted from "old world recipes" that promise authenticity and flavor. Guests rave about the "fantastic food and drinks" and highlight the ambiance, with one noting the experience as "like the ultimate beach vacation." Whether it's enjoying a Sunday Champagne brunch or a sunset dinner, the Old Town Tequila Factory provides a vibrant setting perfect for any gathering, complemented by attentive service and "the best happy hour deals." This spot is a must-visit for those seeking a genuine taste of contemporary Mexican cuisine in a picturesque setting.

A photo of Miguel's Cocina - Old Town restaurant

6. Miguel's Cocina - Old Town

4.5

Awesome(30)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary mexican • Old Town

Booked 15 times today

Miguel's Cocina in Old Town, San Diego, is a treasure trove of Contemporary Mexican cuisine, offering an exceptional dining experience that blends tradition with a modern twist. Patrons rave about the "best Mexican style meal I have ever had," highlighting dishes like the trio burrito combo and the creamy jalapeno white sauce that have become crowd favorites. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in its handmade tortillas and mouthwatering salsas, which are often mentioned in glowing reviews. Guests particularly enjoy the "spicy hot salsa" and "passion fruit margarita," which exemplify the restaurant's flair for combining authentic Mexican flavors with California-inspired creativity. Whether it's the friendly service or the vibrant atmosphere of Old Town, Miguel's Cocina consistently delivers an unforgettable dining experience that keeps diners coming back for more.

7. Baja Betty's

4.9

Exceptional(342)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary mexican • Hillcrest

Booked 14 times today

At Baja Betty's in the vibrant Hillcrest neighborhood of San Diego, the bar scene truly comes alive! Renowned for its exceptional Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service, this hotspot dazzles with its extensive selection of tequilas and mezcals, and signature margaritas that patrons describe as "strong" and "amazing." The atmosphere is consistently lively and inclusive, making it a perfect destination for both fun-filled evenings and relaxed afternoons. Reviewers rave about the "fun drinks" and the service that goes "above and beyond," making every visit memorable. Whether it's Taco Tuesday or a casual weekend outing, Baja Betty's ensures a spirited and delightful experience with every sip and encounter.

A photo of Cocina de Barrio North Park restaurant

8. Cocina de Barrio North Park

new

4.5

Awesome(1)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary mexican • North Park

*Brunch hours are on a walk-in basis only.Cocina de Barrio by Chef Jose J. FloresWelcome to Cocina de Barrio, the newest modern-urban Mexican restaurant located in North Park! We are proud to feature the culinary richness of Oaxaca as well as other Mexican regions. Stop by and enjoy our bar stocked with plenty of tequila and mezcal selections, beer, and wines sourced from Valle Guadalupe.Don't forget to join us during our daily brunch (where we add a Mexican kick) and our happy hour every Monday-Friday from 3-5pm! Stay Chido!

9. Barrio Star

4.6

Exceptional(1094)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary mexican • Banker's Hill

Booked 4 times today

Barrio Star in Banker's Hill, San Diego, is a gem for those seeking an authentic Latin American experience with a modern twist. This vibrant eatery offers a delightful mix of Mexican soul food and bold Latin flavors, perfectly complemented by clever Asian touches. Chef Isabel Cruz, an award-winning visionary, ensures each dish is not only flavorful but also presented with care. Patrons rave about the "best tacos" and the "fresh fruit margaritas," highlighting the use of fresh ingredients and house-made tequila. The lively atmosphere and excellent service only enhance the dining experience, making Barrio Star a must-visit for anyone craving a unique and delicious Latin American meal.

A photo of Javier's - La Jolla restaurant

10. Javier's - La Jolla

4.6

Exceptional(3536)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary mexican • La Jolla

Booked 232 times today

Javier's in La Jolla stands out as a beacon of authentic Mexican cuisine, delighting patrons with its vibrant atmosphere and a rich heritage of elevated dishes. Located in the scenic area of San Diego, the restaurant offers a captivating ambiance, perfect for enjoying their hand-shaken margaritas and a wide selection of rare tequilas. Patrons rave about the quality of the meals, with reviews highlighting the "spectacular" carne asada and the "mouth-watering" lobster enchiladas. As one diner puts it, "Absolutely loved the food and experience." Javier's consistently provides not just a meal but a delightful culinary journey steeped in Mexican tradition, making it a must-visit location for both locals and visitors.

‘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

C
ChristenVIP
San Diego •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Cadillac Margarita is a classic yum fest. We enjoyed guacamole, tacos and suiza enchiladas. The foods are a la cart. Our server Danica was patient with the elders in my family and friendly. She made sure we received all of our food and drinks. She is a sharp server. I hope to dine with her again.
More info
Puesto Mission ValleyPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Mission Valley
•
4.6
S
SusanVIP
Atlanta Metro •12 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 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.
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El AgavePrice: Moderate• Mexican• Old Town
•
4.7
T
TanaVIP
San Diego •66 reviews
4.0
Dined 3 days ago
We throughly enjoyed our dinner at Miguel’s. I think they revamped the menu from the last time I was there, an improvement! The service was excellent.
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Miguel's Cocina - Old TownPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Old Town
•
4.5
C
Cherie
San Diego •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Great service! The champagne glasses were always being filled before they were even half full!! Buffet was amazing So much variety and the dishes were all delicious and prepared well The flan was the best I have ever had Wonderful atmosphere and gorgeous views on the patio We thoroughly enjoyed our time there and didn’t want to leave A must for a special occasion We went for Christmas and it will be a memory that we will all cherish
More info
Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & CantinaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Old Town
•
3.9
J
John Paul
San Diego •10 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 16, 2024
Found this restaurant on OpenTable and was not disappointed. The ambiance is incredible and the food matches it perfectly. However, I think the service, at least our server in particular, was extremely helpful and that really made the whole experience that much better for us.
More info
Camino RivieraPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Mexican• Little Italy
•
4.8

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Best Contemporary Mexican Restaurants in San Diego

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16 restaurants available nearby

1. Puesto Mission Valley

2. El Agave

3. Camino Riviera

4. Tahona Bar

5. Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina

6. Miguel's Cocina - Old Town

7. Baja Betty's

8. Cocina de Barrio North Park

9. Barrio Star

10. Javier's - La Jolla

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