Best of 22 Tex Mex restaurants in Pacific Beach San Diego

Discover our curated list of top-ranked Tex Mex restaurants in Pacific Beach San Diego, compiled from extensive research across reputable websites and blogs. Explore outstanding options like Baja Beach Cafe, Taco Surf PB, El Prez, Fat Fish Cantinagrill, Oscars Mexican Seafood. Let's explore together!

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1. Baja Beach Cafe

Beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, dog-friendly patio

  • Rating: 4.2/5 (3033 Review by google)
  • Address:

    701 Thomas Ave, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

  • Pros:

    Oceanfront location, extensive menu with vegetarian and vegan options, live music events
  • Cons:

    Pricey for the portion size, hit-or-miss service, limited parking
  • Popular Menu:

    Fish tacos, Mahi Mahi burrito, California burger
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website
Indulge in a delightful breakfast experience at Baja Beach Cafe, where flavors come alive with every bite. The vibrant salsa served here is a true standout, perfectly complementing the crispy hash browns and savory prime rib omelet that melt in your mouth. While my party reveled in their dishes, the chicken sausage was a bit underwhelming. Situated along the picturesque PB boardwalk, this charming cafe offers a variety of seating options to match your mood - whether you prefer soaking in the sun, enjoying the view, or mingling at the bar. As the morning transitions to noon, explore the equally enticing lunch menu boasting an array of unique sandwiches, tacos, salads, burgers, and appetizers that promise to tantalize your taste buds beyond expectations.

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Waterfront
  • Dinner

2. Taco Surf PB

Beachfront location with great ocean views

  • Time:

    8:30 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (1409 Review by google)
  • Address:

    4657 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

  • Pros:

    Large portions, reasonable prices, friendly service
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, can get crowded, hit-or-miss food quality
  • Popular Menu:

    Baja-style fish tacos, California burrito, carne asada fries
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website
Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Taco Surf PB, where every bite is a tantalizing journey to taste paradise. Indulge in their iconic California burrito, bursting with savory goodness, or savor their exquisite fish tacos that boast a flawless crispy exterior, though a touch more cream could elevate them to perfection. The breakfast burrito is a sensory delight not to be missed, delivering a scrumptious start to your day. While prices may lean towards the luxury side of the spectrum for burritos, the culinary experience is worth every penny. Navigate the tricky parking situation with determination, for the culinary treasures that await are well-deserving of your visit.

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats
  • Downtown Spots

3. El Prez

Beachfront restaurant with a lively atmosphere and great cocktails

  • Rating: 4.0/5 (1047 Review by google)
  • Address:

    4190 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

  • Pros:

    Large selection of Mexican dishes, ocean views, outdoor seating, friendly service, happy hour specials
  • Cons:

    Some dishes may be too spicy for some palates, prices can be high for certain items, parking can be challenging
  • Popular Menu:

    Carne asada fries, fish tacos, mahi mahi burrito
  • Price Range:

    $11-$30
Phone Directions Website
Step into a world of culinary delight at El Prez, a hidden gem that never fails to dazzle. Nestled in the vibrant city of San Diego, this hotspot beckons with its tantalizing micheladas and delightful taco platters. With each bite, savory flavors burst like fireworks, creating a fiesta in your mouth that lingers long after you've left.
Embrace the spirit of celebration at El Prez, where every visit promises an unforgettable experience. From the lively ambiance to the friendly bartenders, every moment spent here is a testament to the beauty of indulgence. Come for the drinks, stay for the tacos, and dance the night away as you savor the magic of this culinary haven.

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

4. Fat Fish Cantinagrill

Fresh seafood, waterfront views, vibrant atmosphere

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (1195 Review by google)
  • Address:

    4474 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

  • Pros:

    Spacious outdoor seating, creative cocktails, popular among locals
  • Cons:

    Service can be slow during peak hours, limited vegetarian options, pricey for some
  • Popular Menu:

    Grilled Salmon, Fish Tacos, Clam Chowder
  • Price Range:

    $20-$40
Phone Directions
Fat Fish Cantinagrill impressed with excellent wait service and a friendly manager despite the kitchen staff needing some improvement. The group thoroughly enjoyed the best guacamole dip ever tasted. Entering the restaurant was a pleasant surprise as the clean environment and charming rustic decor exceeded expectations.

5. Oscars Mexican Seafood

Fresh seafood with homemade Mexican flavors

  • Time:

    8 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (2393 Review by google)
  • Address:

    746 Emerald St, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide selection of seafood options, Friendly service, Authentic Mexican dishes
  • Cons:

    Limited vegetarian options, Some dishes may be too spicy, Inconsistent food quality
  • Popular Menu:

    Shrimp Cocktail, Fish Tacos, Grilled Swordfish
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website
Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Oscar's Mexican Seafood, where every taco is a tantalizing journey of fresh seafood sensations. The succulent octopus and delectable surf and turf creations will leave your taste buds dancing with delight. While the crab tostada may not be worth its price for a mere spoonful of crab, the vibrant ceviche bursts with freshness, if lacking a bit in boldness. The taco portions are just right, providing the perfect balance of satisfaction and desire for more - as a woman, you may find yourself easily savoring five in a single meal.

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Waterfront

6. Pueblo

Family-owned restaurant since 1978, famous for homemade flour tortillas

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (967 Review by google)
  • Address:

    877 Hornblend St, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

  • Pros:

    Authentic Mexican food, friendly staff, cozy atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Limited parking, cash only, small serving portions
  • Popular Menu:

    Tacos, enchiladas, margaritas
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website
Pueblo offers a mix of delightful dishes, marred only by sluggish service and pesky flies due to open windows. Despite these drawbacks, it remains a trendy spot to unwind after a beach day. On a sunny day, enjoying a scrumptious meal on the pet-friendly patio at this restaurant was a true pleasure. The diverse menu, catering to vegetarians and vegans, ensured all diners, including furry companions, left satisfied and content.

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • American Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Vegan Options

7. Santana's Mexican Food

Family-owned and operated, Traditional recipes

  • Time:

    7 AM to 11 PM

  • Rating: 4.1/5 (628 Review by google)
  • Address:

    2303 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

  • Pros:

    Authentic Mexican cuisine, Friendly staff, Large portions
  • Cons:

    No reservations accepted, Cash only, Limited seating
  • Popular Menu:

    Carne asada burrito, Fish tacos, Chiles rellenos
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions
Santana's Mexican Food offers a mouthwatering adobada burrito with incredibly flavorful meat. With a diverse menu featuring authentic local flavors, this spot in San Diego is a fast, friendly, and delicious choice. A must-try is their California burrito—the ultimate recommendation for a satisfying Mexican food experience!

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats
  • Vegetarian Options

8. Vallarta Express Mexican Eatery

Authentic Mexican street food experience

  • Time:

    Open 24 hours

  • Rating: 4.2/5 (762 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1375 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

  • Pros:

    Lively atmosphere, generous portions, quick service
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, cash-only policy, hit-or-miss quality
  • Popular Menu:

    Burritos, tacos, carne asada fries
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats
  • Downtown Spots

9. Rubio's Coastal Grill

Committed to sustainable seafood practices and supporting local communities.

  • Time:

    10:30 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (796 Review by google)
  • Address:

    4504 Mission Bay Dr., San Diego, CA 92109, United States

  • Pros:

    Offers fresh seafood options, has a welcoming atmosphere, provides catering services, offers gluten-free and vegetarian options, and has a rewards program.
  • Cons:

    Some locations may have limited seating, may have longer wait times during peak hours, prices can be slightly higher than some fast-food chains, may not have a diverse menu for those with dietary restrictions beyond gluten-free and vegetarian, and some customers may not prefer the taste of their tortillas.
  • Popular Menu:

    Grilled Gourmet Tacos, Saboroso Bowl, and Classic Burrito.
  • Price Range:

    $6-$15
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

10. Cabo Cantina

Mexican-inspired beach bar with a fun and energetic vibe

  • Rating: 4.0/5 (608 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1050 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

  • Pros:

    Offers happy hour deals, has a lively atmosphere, provides outdoor seating with great views
  • Cons:

    Can get crowded and noisy, service may be slow during peak hours, limited vegetarian options
  • Popular Menu:

    Fish tacos, margaritas, quesadillas
  • Price Range:

    $-$$
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Happy Hours
  • Downtown Spots

11. Areli's Taco Shop Pacific Beach

Family-owned taco shop with authentic Mexican dishes

  • Time:

    8 AM to 12 AM

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (220 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1313 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

  • Pros:

    Friendly service, delicious food, great location in Pacific Beach
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, can get crowded during peak hours, cash-only
  • Popular Menu:

    Carne asada burrito, fish tacos, horchata
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Happy Hours
  • Vegetarian Options

12. City Tacos

Local favorite with delicious and generously-sized meals

  • Time:

    11 AM to 10 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (323 Review by google)
  • Address:

    4516 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

  • Pros:

    Authentic Mexican food, Friendly staff, Great location and ambiance
  • Cons:

    Limited indoor seating, Cash-only policy, Some dishes may be too spicy
  • Popular Menu:

    Carne Asada Burrito, Fish Tacos, Chicken Quesadilla
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats
  • Vegetarian Options

13. Valerie's Taco Shop - Pacific Beach

A San Diego staple for over three decades, using traditional cooking techniques and locally sourced ingredients

  • Time:

    Open 24 hours

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (321 Review by google)
  • Address:

    4427 Ingraham St, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

  • Pros:

    Cash-only establishment with a laid-back vibe, Generous portions, Authentic Mexican recipes since 1986
  • Cons:

    No vegetarian options for some menu items, Limited seating available, Cash only payment
  • Popular Menu:

    Carne Asada Burrito, Fish Tacos, California Burrito
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Hidden Gems

14. Bahia PB Mexican Grill And Juice Bar

Emphasis on healthy and fresh ingredients, unique Mexican-Bahian fusion cuisine

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (269 Review by google)
  • Address:

    909 Grand Ave #7, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide vegetarian and vegan options, convenient location, offers catering services
  • Cons:

    Some customers complain about slow service, limited gluten-free options,hit-or-miss consistency
  • Popular Menu:

    Tacos, burritos, fresh juices
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Vegan Options
  • Cheap Eats
  • Dinner

15. Birrieria & Taqueria La Huasteca

Family-owned birrieria with a focus on traditional dishes

  • Time:

    10 AM to 8 PM

  • Rating: 4.8/5 (195 Review by google)
  • Address:

    865 Turquoise St, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

  • Pros:

    Friendly service, authentic Mexican food, generous portions
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, cash-only payments, can get busy during peak hours
  • Popular Menu:

    Birria, Tacos, Homemade tortillas
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Vegan Options
  • Downtown Spots

16. Taquería Los Ruiz

Friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere

  • Time:

    8:30 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (205 Review by google)
  • Address:

    5010 Cass St suite k, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

  • Pros:

    Family-owned taquería, Authentic Mexican food, Generous portions
  • Cons:

    Cash only, Limited seating, No delivery service available
  • Popular Menu:

    Tacos, Burritos, Carne Asada Fries
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats
  • Vegetarian Options

17. Roberto’s Taco Shop Pacific Beach

Family-owned local favorite since 1992

  • Time:

    8 AM to 12 AM

  • Rating: 4.0/5 (190 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1858 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

  • Pros:

    Friendly service, quick take-out, delicious Mexican food
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, cash-only, may find long lines during peak hours
  • Popular Menu:

    Carne asada burrito, California burrito, fish tacos
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats
  • Dinner
  • Downtown Spots

18. El Rey Moro Taco Shop

Family-owned taco shop since 1979, Locally sourced ingredients

  • Time:

    7:30 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.2/5 (265 Review by google)
  • Address:

    2710 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

  • Pros:

    Authentic Mexican food, Friendly service, Large portions
  • Cons:

    No reservations accepted, Cash only, Limited seating
  • Popular Menu:

    Carne asada burrito, Fish tacos, Carne asada fries
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

19. Los Dos Pedros #2

Phone Directions

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Downtown Spots

20. Rubio's Coastal Grill

Sustainable seafood choices, Fast-casual dining experience

  • Time:

    10:30 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (431 Review by google)
  • Address:

    910 Grand Ave, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

  • Pros:

    Fresh seafood options, Bold Mexican flavors, Outdoor seating available
  • Cons:

    Limited vegetarian options, Some locations may have long wait times, Sodium levels may be high
  • Popular Menu:

    Grilled Gourmet Mahi Mahi Tacos, Salsa Verde Shrimp Tacos, Original Fish Tacos
  • Price Range:

    $10-$20
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

21. La Perla Cocina #2

Authentic Mexican food with a modern twist

  • Time:

    8 AM to 8:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (281 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1880 Grand Ave, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of Mexican dishes, cozy atmosphere, prompt and friendly service
  • Cons:

    Limited vegetarian options, parking can be difficult, a bit pricey for the portion size
  • Popular Menu:

    Carne asada, shrimp tacos, chicken enchiladas
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Hidden Gems
  • Dinner

22. Harry's taco club

Vibrant & trendy location with a fun atmosphere

  • Time:

    10 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (164 Review by google)
  • Address:

    4612 Cass St, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

  • Pros:

    Street-style tacos, extensive tequila menu, friendly service
  • Cons:

    Limited vegetarian options, can be crowded, parking can be challenging
  • Popular Menu:

    Carne asada tacos, chicken tinga tacos, horchata
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Waterfront
  • Dinner