Best of 11 Mexican restaurants in Downtown San Jose
Mexican restaurants in Downtown San Jose are a must-visit for food lovers. With a variety of authentic Mexican cuisines, these restaurants offer a unique dining experience that combines rich flavors and a vibrant atmosphere. From traditional tacos and enchiladas to mouth-watering burritos and quesadillas, Mexican restaurants in Downtown San Jose serve up a culinary journey that will leave you craving more. Whether you're a local or a tourist, these restaurants are a great way to immerse yourself in the rich culture and cuisine of Mexico right in the heart of San Jose.
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1. Mezcal Restaurant
Extensive mezcal selection, traditional live Mariachi music, and warm atmosphere.
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The restaurant's atmosphere is warm and inviting, featuring charming red brick walls and decorative Mexican artwork. Diners can choose to sit inside or outside on the patio, which is adorned with mosaic tile tables and offers a cozy ambiance. However, there is some discrepancy in the descriptions of the service, with some guests praising it as fast, efficient, friendly, and attentive, while others find it unfriendly, rude, or mediocre.
The food served at the restaurant is consistently described as delicious, fresh, and flavorful, with a focus on traditional Mexican cuisine. The menu features a variety of options, including tacos, enchiladas, and tamales, as well as vegetarian and gluten-free dishes. The margaritas and other cocktails are also highly recommended by many visitors, who appreciate the use of fresh ingredients and quality tequila. Although the prices may be slightly higher than some other Mexican restaurants, guests generally find it to be reasonable given the quality of the food and the overall dining experience.
The restaurant's atmosphere is warm and inviting, featuring charming red brick walls and decorative Mexican artwork. Diners can choose to sit inside or outside on the patio, which is adorned with mosaic tile tables and offers a cozy ambiance. However, there is some discrepancy in the descriptions of the service, with some guests praising it as fast, efficient, friendly, and attentive, while others find it unfriendly, rude, or mediocre.
The food served at the restaurant is consistently described as delicious, fresh, and flavorful, with a focus on traditional Mexican cuisine. The menu features a variety of options, including tacos, enchiladas, and tamales, as well as vegetarian and gluten-free dishes. The margaritas and other cocktails are also highly recommended by many visitors, who appreciate the use of fresh ingredients and quality tequila. Although the prices may be slightly higher than some other Mexican restaurants, guests generally find it to be reasonable given the quality of the food and the overall dining experience.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
2. La Victoria Taqueria
Family-owned and operated since 1994, Traditional recipes
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La Victoria Taquería is a popular dining establishment, known for its welcoming service and comforting Mexican cuisine. Even on rainy days, this restaurant manages to attract a loyal clientele. One of the most recommended dishes is the super burrito with asada meat, which comes to life with the unique and delectable orange sauce.
The menu at La Victoria Taquería is a celebration of Mexican food, with a variety of offerings that cater to different tastes and appetites. Generous portion sizes ensure that customers get their fill of tacos, burritos, quesadillas, tostadas, enchiladas, and other classic dishes. The high-quality ingredients elevate each meal, making for a satisfying dining experience.
La Victoria Taquería is a popular dining establishment, known for its welcoming service and comforting Mexican cuisine. Even on rainy days, this restaurant manages to attract a loyal clientele. One of the most recommended dishes is the super burrito with asada meat, which comes to life with the unique and delectable orange sauce.
The menu at La Victoria Taquería is a celebration of Mexican food, with a variety of offerings that cater to different tastes and appetites. Generous portion sizes ensure that customers get their fill of tacos, burritos, quesadillas, tostadas, enchiladas, and other classic dishes. The high-quality ingredients elevate each meal, making for a satisfying dining experience.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Dinner
- Late Night
3. Olla Cocina
Uses organic and locally sourced ingredients, Cozy and welcoming atmosphere
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The tacos and chips served at the gathering were generally enjoyed, but a few guests noted that the food was either bland or not served at the optimal temperature. The Mexican cuisine offered was fresh and full of flavor, with authentic recipes and ingredients that added to the dining experience.
Despite some concerns about the temperature and seasoning of certain dishes, guests found the Mexican food to be delicious and authentic. The ingredients were fresh, and the flavors were bold, creating a satisfying meal for those in attendance. The tacos and chips stood out for their taste and quality, but all of the food served was held to the same high standards.
The tacos and chips served at the gathering were generally enjoyed, but a few guests noted that the food was either bland or not served at the optimal temperature. The Mexican cuisine offered was fresh and full of flavor, with authentic recipes and ingredients that added to the dining experience.
Despite some concerns about the temperature and seasoning of certain dishes, guests found the Mexican food to be delicious and authentic. The ingredients were fresh, and the flavors were bold, creating a satisfying meal for those in attendance. The tacos and chips stood out for their taste and quality, but all of the food served was held to the same high standards.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
4. El Jalapeno Rojo
Family-owned and operated with a warm and inviting atmosphere
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Tasty and plentiful, the food at this establishment is highly regarded. Popular dishes include tacos and burritos, which offer a satisfying and delicious experience for customers. The restaurant combines quality and quantity in their meals, making it a go-to spot for many.
The prices at this restaurant are considered to be reasonable and affordable. Many customers find the cost of the food to be a great value, given the high quality of the meals offered. It is a low-cost option for those seeking delicious and filling food without breaking the bank.
Tasty and plentiful, the food at this establishment is highly regarded. Popular dishes include tacos and burritos, which offer a satisfying and delicious experience for customers. The restaurant combines quality and quantity in their meals, making it a go-to spot for many.
The prices at this restaurant are considered to be reasonable and affordable. Many customers find the cost of the food to be a great value, given the high quality of the meals offered. It is a low-cost option for those seeking delicious and filling food without breaking the bank.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Lunch
- Dinner
5. Iguanas Home Of The Burritozilla
Home of the giant Burritozilla
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The sauce that accompanies the dish is a key factor in its delicious taste. One serving is generous and can be shared between two people or saved for another meal. In terms of service, it is quick and efficient, ensuring a smooth dining experience.
When it comes to the food, the burritos and nachos are particularly popular and well-received. However, some diners express that the meat could be grilled to a higher standard, suggesting room for improvement in this area. Overall, the sauce and the popular dishes make for a satisfying meal.
The sauce that accompanies the dish is a key factor in its delicious taste. One serving is generous and can be shared between two people or saved for another meal. In terms of service, it is quick and efficient, ensuring a smooth dining experience.
When it comes to the food, the burritos and nachos are particularly popular and well-received. However, some diners express that the meat could be grilled to a higher standard, suggesting room for improvement in this area. Overall, the sauce and the popular dishes make for a satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
6. La Victoria Taqueria
Muraled interior, Unique salsa bar, Vegan and vegetarian options
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La Vic's is known for its friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular spot for a quick bite. The restaurant has a reputation for excellent service, with employees going above and beyond to ensure that customers feel valued and satisfied.
One of the standout menu items at La Vic's is the legendary orange sauce. This unique condiment has gained a loyal following, with many customers specifically seeking out the restaurant to try it. Whether it's drizzled over a salad or used as a dipping sauce for appetizers, the orange sauce adds a burst of flavor to any dish. It's a must-try for anyone visiting La Vic's.
La Vic's is known for its friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular spot for a quick bite. The restaurant has a reputation for excellent service, with employees going above and beyond to ensure that customers feel valued and satisfied.
One of the standout menu items at La Vic's is the legendary orange sauce. This unique condiment has gained a loyal following, with many customers specifically seeking out the restaurant to try it. Whether it's drizzled over a salad or used as a dipping sauce for appetizers, the orange sauce adds a burst of flavor to any dish. It's a must-try for anyone visiting La Vic's.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
7. La Peñita
Family-owned restaurant with homemade recipes
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Cocido de Res is a Mexican specialty that consists of a delicious clear broth, vegetables, and tender rib meat. This soup, which is often partially eaten with tortillas, is a must-try and is what keeps regulars coming back to La Peñita. The meat is succulent and juicy, making it perfect for wrapping in a tortilla with beans and rice. The soup is robust and full of flavor, making it an ideal choice for a cold day.
La Peñita is known for its tasty food and good service, although some may find the prices to be slightly high. The albondigas soup, which is served with Mexican rice and homemade tortillas, is a popular choice. However, some diners have found the meatballs in the soup to lack flavor and be poorly heated, requiring additional seasoning. On the positive side, the carrots in the soup have been praised for their taste and texture.
Cocido de Res is a Mexican specialty that consists of a delicious clear broth, vegetables, and tender rib meat. This soup, which is often partially eaten with tortillas, is a must-try and is what keeps regulars coming back to La Peñita. The meat is succulent and juicy, making it perfect for wrapping in a tortilla with beans and rice. The soup is robust and full of flavor, making it an ideal choice for a cold day.
La Peñita is known for its tasty food and good service, although some may find the prices to be slightly high. The albondigas soup, which is served with Mexican rice and homemade tortillas, is a popular choice. However, some diners have found the meatballs in the soup to lack flavor and be poorly heated, requiring additional seasoning. On the positive side, the carrots in the soup have been praised for their taste and texture.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
8. La Victoria Taqueria in Downtown San Jose
Family-owned and operated since 1994, Traditional recipes from Jalisco, Mexico
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Burritos at this establishment are known for their large size and overall goodness. However, some guests express concerns about the high prices. The orange sauce that accompanies the burritos is a highlight, as it adds depth and complexity to the dish. On the other hand, there are issues with the preparation of drinks, which are sometimes made incorrectly.
Moving on to the delivery service, there are reports of drivers forgetting items in orders. This can be frustrating for customers who are looking forward to a complete and satisfying meal. It's important to note that these issues do not necessarily reflect the food or the staff at the restaurant itself, but rather the logistics of delivering food to customers' homes. Nonetheless, it's important to address these problems to ensure a positive dining experience for all customers, whether they are dining in or ordering takeout.
Burritos at this establishment are known for their large size and overall goodness. However, some guests express concerns about the high prices. The orange sauce that accompanies the burritos is a highlight, as it adds depth and complexity to the dish. On the other hand, there are issues with the preparation of drinks, which are sometimes made incorrectly.
Moving on to the delivery service, there are reports of drivers forgetting items in orders. This can be frustrating for customers who are looking forward to a complete and satisfying meal. It's important to note that these issues do not necessarily reflect the food or the staff at the restaurant itself, but rather the logistics of delivering food to customers' homes. Nonetheless, it's important to address these problems to ensure a positive dining experience for all customers, whether they are dining in or ordering takeout.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
9. El Cabron Kitchen & Cantina
Live music on weekends, Pet-friendly patio
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The menu at this establishment features delicious dishes that are sure to exceed your expectations. The drinks menu is equally impressive, offering inventive and delightful options. The atmosphere is energetic, making it a great place to dine and socialize. However, during peak hours, it can get quite lively.
If you're looking for a great dining experience, this place is highly recommended. The bar is a particularly enjoyable spot, offering a fun and social atmosphere. The bartenders, Saul and Ignacio, are amazing and will make your visit even more memorable. Whether you choose to sit at the bar or elsewhere in the restaurant, you're sure to enjoy your meal and the company.
The menu at this establishment features delicious dishes that are sure to exceed your expectations. The drinks menu is equally impressive, offering inventive and delightful options. The atmosphere is energetic, making it a great place to dine and socialize. However, during peak hours, it can get quite lively.
If you're looking for a great dining experience, this place is highly recommended. The bar is a particularly enjoyable spot, offering a fun and social atmosphere. The bartenders, Saul and Ignacio, are amazing and will make your visit even more memorable. Whether you choose to sit at the bar or elsewhere in the restaurant, you're sure to enjoy your meal and the company.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
- Lunch
10. Botanero Bar & Grill
Cozy atmosphere with a lively bar scene and outdoor seating.
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If you're in the area near the SAP Center, Botanero is a great choice for Mexican cuisine. Their prawns are a popular menu item and their micheladas and beer are also worth trying. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, providing a pleasant atmosphere for their customers.
Before attending a concert, I tried Botanero based on other positive reviews and was not disappointed. The margaritas were excellent, with my partner opting for a spicy version and me choosing the regular. The fish tacos and ceviche we ordered were both delicious, with the right amount of spice in the ceviche. The portions were generous and the restaurant was clean and cute. Overall, it was a great dining experience.
If you're in the area near the SAP Center, Botanero is a great choice for Mexican cuisine. Their prawns are a popular menu item and their micheladas and beer are also worth trying. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, providing a pleasant atmosphere for their customers.
Before attending a concert, I tried Botanero based on other positive reviews and was not disappointed. The margaritas were excellent, with my partner opting for a spicy version and me choosing the regular. The fish tacos and ceviche we ordered were both delicious, with the right amount of spice in the ceviche. The portions were generous and the restaurant was clean and cute. Overall, it was a great dining experience.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Social Gatherings
11. Loteria Taco Bar in Downtown San Jose
Features a vibrant loteria (Mexican bingo) theme and a selection of vegetarian options
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If you're looking for a great spot for street tacos, this place is a must-try. The fish tacos, in particular, really stood out - they were incredibly fresh and full of flavor. I highly recommend giving them a try if you're in the area.
The carnitas tacos were also delicious, although the service was a bit slower than I would have liked. However, despite the small delay, the quality of the food made up for it. Overall, if you're in the mood for some tasty Mexican food, this place is definitely worth checking out. Just be prepared for a bit of a wait if you're ordering during a busy time.
If you're looking for a great spot for street tacos, this place is a must-try. The fish tacos, in particular, really stood out - they were incredibly fresh and full of flavor. I highly recommend giving them a try if you're in the area.
The carnitas tacos were also delicious, although the service was a bit slower than I would have liked. However, despite the small delay, the quality of the food made up for it. Overall, if you're in the mood for some tasty Mexican food, this place is definitely worth checking out. Just be prepared for a bit of a wait if you're ordering during a busy time.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots