Best Latin American Restaurants in University City/Golden Triangle

8 restaurants available nearby

1. Puesto La Jolla

4.6

Exceptional(2108)

Price: Moderate

• Latin american • La Jolla

Booked 53 times today

Puesto La Jolla is a gem in La Jolla, San Diego, renowned for its exceptional Contemporary Mexican cuisine. This award-winning restaurant, celebrated by outlets like National Geographic and the Michelin Guide, offers a unique culinary experience with its Mexico City-style crispy melted cheese tacos on non-GMO, organic maíz azul tortillas. Chef Luisteen Gonzales crafts vibrant dishes, from fresh ceviches to inventive tacos, praised for their “amazing flavors” and described as “the best tacos ever!” by satisfied diners. The lively ambiance, complemented by an innovative bar program featuring hand-crafted cocktails and exclusive Mexican wines, ensures every visit is memorable. As one review raves, it's “an absolute must-try!” with “outstanding service and food.”

2. Flama Llama

4.4

Awesome(57)

Price: Moderate

• Latin american • Kearny Mesa

Booked 1 time today

Welcome to Flama Llama, an exceptional gem located in Kearny Mesa, San Diego, where Latin flavors dance delightfully with Asian influences. This fusion restaurant has mastered an eclectic mix, offering dishes that brilliantly blend Peruvian zest with Asian subtlety. Guests rave about the "amazing Latin-Asian cuisine that leaves you dancing," with standout dishes like the tender beef saltado paired perfectly with potato wedges and the innovative Thai tea flan. With its vibrant atmosphere and a menu that promises a culinary adventure, Flama Llama is a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in "flavors that pop" and a dining experience that is as authentic as it is unforgettable.

A photo of Puesto Mission Valley restaurant

3. Puesto Mission Valley

4.6

Exceptional(1982)

Price: Moderate

• Latin american • Mission Valley

Booked 33 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.

A photo of Tamarindo Latin Kitchen- Del Mar restaurant

4. Tamarindo Latin Kitchen- Del Mar

4.7

Exceptional(903)

Price: Moderate

• Latin american • Del Mar

Booked 25 times today

Tamarindo Latin Kitchen- Del Mar is a gem in Del Mar for authentic and exquisite Mexican cuisine. The vibrant atmosphere paired with "amazing" food and "excellent service" makes this spot a must-visit. Patrons rave about the "best guacamole and tortilla soup" and the "delicious sea bass special." Not to be missed are the "watermelon marg & mahi mahi tacos," which are a hit among locals. Reviews consistently highlight the "fantastic cocktails and food," with special mentions of the "delicious house marg and the carne asada plate." Tamarindo is praised for its quality and authenticity, making every meal a delightful experience that resonates with the true flavors of Mexico.

5. Tahona Bar

4.5

Awesome(616)

Price: Moderate

• Latin american • Old Town

Booked 10 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.

6. Cocina de Barrio

4.7

Exceptional(421)

Price: Moderate

• Latin american • Hillcrest

Booked 8 times today

At Cocina de Barrio in Hillcrest, San Diego, the Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service is a standout experience that impresses with its extensive selection of tequila and mezcal, alongside a vibrant array of craft cocktails. Patrons rave about the "gorgeous and well-balanced cocktails" and particularly praise the strawberry blanco margarita and mango mezcal margarita as "the best margaritas we have had in a long time." The bar's atmosphere is described as unpretentious yet unique, creating a perfect backdrop for enjoying innovative drinks paired with delicious Mexican cuisine. With reviews highlighting the "amazing happy hour menu" and noting that the drinks are "like sipping happiness in a glass," Cocina de Barrio ensures each visit is a delightful and authentic experience. Whether for a casual outing or a special occasion, this bar delivers top-tier service, exquisite drinks, and a truly memorable ambiance.

A photo of Coya Peruvian Secret restaurant

7. Coya Peruvian Secret

4.4

Awesome(649)

Price: Moderate

• Latin american • Del Mar

Booked 3 times today

At Coya Peruvian Secret in Del Mar, you're not just dining; you're embarking on a vibrant culinary journey through Latin America. Celebrated for its authentic Peruvian-California fusion, this charming outdoor oasis has garnered local acclaim, being voted the best Seafood and Latin American cuisine in San Diego. Patrons rave about the "unforgettable flavors" and "Instagram-worthy" presentation of dishes like the classic ceviche and Lomo Saltado. Nestled under a tree in a cozy cottage setting, Coya Peruvian Secret promises more than a meal—it delivers an experience wrapped in magic, perfect for any gathering. As one reviewer puts it, it's a "truly special place" that makes every visit memorable.

8. Barrio Star

4.3

Awesome(1092)

Price: Moderate

• Latin american • Banker's Hill

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.

‘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

I
Ileenvip
San Diego •11 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
The outdoor corner table with the fire pit in the center was WONDERFUL!! Our waiter was even better… SO friendly and helpful… he’s a keeper 👍🏼 Food and drinks were good :)
More info
Tamarindo Latin Kitchen- Del MarPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Del Mar
•
4.7
A
alexis
San Diego •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Great lunch. Excellent service, Food came out super fast and full of flavor. Our favorite spot in town!
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Puesto La JollaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• La Jolla
•
4.6
D
David
Los Angeles •1 review
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Charming restaurant and bar in old town. Sat at the friendly bar, and enjoyed a cocktail, and a flight of great mezcal along with Tacos, and house special guacamole and chips/salsas. All food was presented nicely and was fresh and delicious. Very fun place.
More info
Tahona BarPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Old Town
•
4.5
VM
VineetM
New York City •23 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
Nice atmosphere, great food and outstanding service.Excellent Margaritas Please start serving Pinot Grigio. It is inexpensive and one of the most popular white wines now. Highly tecommend
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Puesto Mission ValleyPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Mission Valley
•
4.6
G
Gerald
San Diego •24 reviews
4.0
Dined on Nov 18, 2024
Maybe it’s because it was a Sunday but we waited about 20 minutes to be seated even though the restaurant was about 25% full. Once seated, the service was good and four of the five dishes we ordered were very good and reasonably priced. Interesting food combinations but not the place to go to if you want a salad.
More info
Flama LlamaPrice: Moderate• Latin American• Kearny Mesa
•
4.4

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University City/Golden Triangle

Latin american

Best Latin American Restaurants in University City/Golden Triangle

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8 restaurants available nearby

1. Puesto La Jolla

2. Flama Llama

3. Puesto Mission Valley

4. Tamarindo Latin Kitchen- Del Mar

5. Tahona Bar

6. Cocina de Barrio

7. Coya Peruvian Secret

8. Barrio Star

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