Top 18 Mexican restaurants in Clairemont San Diego

Discover our curated list of top-ranked Mexican restaurants in Clairemont San Diego, compiled from extensive research across reputable websites and blogs. Explore outstanding options like Lupe's Mexican Eatery, Cotixan Mexican Food, Vallarta Express Mexican Eatery, Del Taco, Roberto's Taco Shop Bay Park. Let's explore together!

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1. Lupe's Mexican Eatery

Friendly service and dedicated to traditional Mexican recipes

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (1286 Review by google)
  • Address:

    7621 Linda Vista Rd, San Diego, CA 92111, United States

  • Pros:

    Family-owned restaurant, Authentic Mexican cuisine, Generous portions
  • Cons:

    Cash only, Limited seating, No alcohol served
  • Popular Menu:

    Carne asada burrito, Carne al pastor tacos, Chiles rellenos
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website
Step into Lupe's Mexican Eatery and prepare to be amazed! Despite its unassuming exterior, this hidden gem boasts a mouthwatering selection of authentic Mexican dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. From the flavorful sauces to the generous portions, every bite is a culinary delight that will keep you coming back for more. And let's not forget about those irresistible fries - crispy, abundant, and bursting with flavor, they are simply addictive. Lupe's has quickly become my go-to spot, and I can't get enough!
Calling all taco lovers! If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on quality, look no further than Lupe's Mexican Eatery. With their unbeatable taco Tuesday deal, you can savor the delicious flavors of their top-notch meat tacos without breaking the bank. The quality of the ingredients shines through in every bite, making each taco a satisfying and affordable treat. Whether you're a regular or a first-time visitor, Lupe's is sure to impress with its enticing combination of flavor, value, and overall dining experience.

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats
  • Dinner

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late night restaurants in Clairemont San Diego

2. Cotixan Mexican Food

Authentic Mexican cuisine with homemade salsa and fresh ingredients

  • Time:

    Open 24 hours

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (1380 Review by google)
  • Address:

    4370 Genesee Ave, San Diego, CA 92117, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of Mexican dishes, friendly service, generous portions
  • Cons:

    Some dishes may be too spicy for some customers, limited seating, cash only
  • Popular Menu:

    Tacos, burritos, carne asada fries
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website
Discover the authentic flavors of Mexico at Cotixan Mexican Food, a beloved establishment in Clairemont offering a diverse menu that caters to all tastes. Indulge in the savory Supreme Veggie, satisfying Bean and Cheese, flavorful Chile Relleno, and hearty California Burritos, each bursting with traditional Mexican spices and ingredients. Complement your meal with a selection of delectable sauces that enhance the vibrant flavors of the dishes, creating a truly unforgettable dining experience.
While revisiting Cotixan today, I had the pleasure of savoring their classic OG hot sauce, a delicious addition to their signature dishes. However, the Shrimp and Fish Burritos, as well as the Birria Tacos, didn't meet my expectations. Although the overall dining experience wasn't as exceptional as in the past, I recognize that San Diego boasts a plethora of exceptional Mexican eateries to explore. With that said, Cotixan's longstanding reputation for quality and flavor may still entice food enthusiasts seeking a taste of traditional Mexican cuisine.

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats
  • Hidden Gems

3. Vallarta Express Mexican Eatery

Authentic Mexican food with homemade sauces and salsas

  • Time:

    Open 24 hours

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (1428 Review by google)
  • Address:

    4277 Genesee Ave, San Diego, CA 92117, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of Mexican dishes, generous portions, quick service
  • Cons:

    Some dishes may be too spicy for some customers, cash-only restaurant, limited seating
  • Popular Menu:

    Burritos, tacos, and tortas
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website
Vallarta Express Mexican Eatery is a beloved gem I discovered back in my college days. The cozy interior extends to a charming outside seating area, creating a relaxed ambiance. As the name suggests, the focus is on the espresso, setting the stage for an intimate dining experience. Despite its size, the eatery packs a punch with flavorful Mexican dishes, and I always make the drive for a taste of their irresistible salsa, undoubtedly the best in San Diego.
A must-try at Vallarta Express is their iconic Christian Fries, a decadent twist on Carne Asada fries featuring a mouthwatering combination of fried egg and crispy bacon. A loyal patron for years, I can attest to the consistently high quality of their meat and generous portion sizes, making each visit a satisfying and memorable dining excursion. Whether you're a fan of traditional Mexican cuisine or seeking a unique culinary adventure, Vallarta Express promises a delectable experience that keeps patrons coming back for more.

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Budget-Friendly Eats

4. Del Taco

Fresh ingredients and made-to-order meals

  • Rating: 3.9/5 (1158 Review by google)
  • Address:

    3896 Clairemont Dr, San Diego, CA 92117, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide menu selection, open 24/7, drive-thru and delivery options
  • Cons:

    Some locations may have long wait times, some items can be greasy
  • Popular Menu:

    Burritos, tacos, and Mexican-inspired fast food
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website
I ventured to sample Del Taco's "Carne Asada Street Taco," only to be greeted with an utterly disappointing experience. The questionable concoction consisted of minuscule portions of steak drowned in a peculiarly slimy sauce, encased between two lackluster white corn tortillas. Despite being prepared fresh upon ordering, the dish fell short in terms of both flavor and presentation. While the cashier provided a warm welcome upon our arrival, the noisy ambiance of the dining area was slightly off-putting, yet the overall cleanliness of the tables and floors was commendable.

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats
  • Suburban
  • Lunch

5. Roberto's Taco Shop Bay Park

Family-owned Mexican restaurant since 1964, using traditional recipes

  • Time:

    Open 24 hours

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (843 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1525 Morena Blvd, San Diego, CA 92110, United States

  • Pros:

    Fast service, friendly staff, delicious Mexican food
  • Cons:

    limited seating, cash-only, may get busy during peak hours
  • Popular Menu:

    carne asada burrito, carne asada fries, fish tacos
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website
Roberto's Taco Shop in Bay Park is a culinary haven boasting delectable dishes and prompt, amiable service, open round the clock for the ultimate dining convenience. The spacious dining area is easily accessible, complemented by nearby van parking options. Indulge in a flavorful breakfast burrito amidst a culinary oasis.
A revered treasure in San Diego, Roberto's Taco Shop dazzles with its unrivaled Mexican cuisine. Delight in savory tacos crafted from premium, fresh ingredients, expertly prepared to tantalize your taste buds with each bite.

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats
  • Dinner

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french fries in Clairemont San Diego

6. Roberto's Taco Shop Clairemont

Family-owned local favorite with loyal customer base

  • Time:

    6 AM to 11 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (723 Review by google)
  • Address:

    3095 Clairemont Dr # C, San Diego, CA 92117, United States

  • Pros:

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

    Cash only, can get crowded during peak hours, limited seating
  • Popular Menu:

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

    $
Phone Directions Website
Roberto's Taco Shop in Clairemont is a quintessential San Diego gem, boasting multiple locations across the city. Situated at the convergence of Clairemont and Bay Park, this spot is a go-to for top-notch burritos and tacos. The California burrito, in particular, stands out for its outstanding flavor and quality. The friendly staff further enhance the dining experience, making it a must-visit destination in the area.

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats
  • Downtown Spots

7. Mike's Red Tacos

Handmade tortillas and slow-cooked meats

  • Time:

    11 AM to 9:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.8/5 (594 Review by google)
  • Address:

    4310 Genesee Ave ste 104, San Diego, CA 92117, United States

  • Pros:

    Authentic Mexican tacos, Friendly service, Casual atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, Cash only, No vegetarian options
  • Popular Menu:

    Red tacos, Mulitas, Vampiros
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website
Mike's Red Tacos fully delivers for Birria enthusiasts. Even my skeptical Asian boyfriend was won over by their Birria ramen. The accolade of being in Yelp's top 100 places to eat in 2023 led us here, and indulging in the cheesy tacos on Taco Tuesday—only costing us $16 for three tacos and a soup—sealed the deal.

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Cheap Eats

8. Palmitos Mexican Eatery

Family-owned restaurant with homemade tortillas

  • Time:

    8 AM to 11 PM

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (859 Review by google)
  • Address:

    5145 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92117, United States

  • Pros:

    Authentic Mexican cuisine, Generous portion sizes, Friendly service
  • Cons:

    Limited vegetarian options, Some dishes may be too spicy for some, Cash-only restaurant
  • Popular Menu:

    Tacos, Burritos, Carnitas
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats
  • Hidden Gems

9. El Portal Fresh Mexican Grill

Authentic Mexican cuisine in a casual setting

  • Time:

    10 AM to 8 PM

  • Rating: 4.2/5 (304 Review by google)
  • Address:

    4101 Genesee Ave, San Diego, CA 92111, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of Mexican dishes, generous portions, catering service available
  • Cons:

    Some reviewers mention long wait times, hit-or-miss service, expensive for the area
  • Popular Menu:

    Carne asada burrito, carnitas tacos, chicken quesadilla
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Lunch

10. El Rey Moro Taco Shop

Family-owned and operated for over 20 years

  • Time:

    7:30 AM to 9:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.2/5 (297 Review by google)
  • Address:

    4471 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92117, United States

  • Pros:

    Authentic Mexican cuisine, Friendly service, Generous portions
  • Cons:

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

    Carne asada tacos, Carne al pastor burrito, Fish tacos
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions

TOPICS

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

11. Las Panchitas Mexican Grill

Authentic Mexican food with a welcoming atmosphere

  • Time:

    9 AM to 8 PM

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (184 Review by google)
  • Address:

    3542 Ashford St, San Diego, CA 92111, United States

  • Pros:

    Family-owned restaurant, generous portions, delicious homemade salsa.
  • Cons:

    Cash only, limited seating, may have long wait times during peak hours.
  • Popular Menu:

    Carne asada burrito, carnitas tacos, Chile relleno
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Social Gatherings
  • Mid-Range

12. Californias Taco Shop

Offers a unique twist on traditional Mexican cuisine

  • Time:

    8 AM to 11 PM

  • Rating: 4.0/5 (454 Review by google)
  • Address:

    3066 Clairemont Dr, San Diego, CA 92117, United States

  • Pros:

    Family-friendly atmosphere, generous portions, delicious California-style Mexican food
  • Cons:

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

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

    $
Phone Directions

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

13. Carmen's Mexican Food

Family-owned restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere

  • Time:

    11 AM to 8 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (388 Review by google)
  • Address:

    4937 Diane Ave, San Diego, CA 92117, United States

  • Pros:

    Offers authentic Mexican cuisine, popular taqueria, caters to large groups, friendly service
  • Cons:

    Cash only, limited seating, may have long lines during peak hours
  • Popular Menu:

    Tacos, burritos, carne asada fries
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

14. La Palapa Authentic Mexican Food

Homemade recipes passed down through generations

  • Time:

    8 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (180 Review by google)
  • Address:

    4386 Moraga Ave, San Diego, CA 92117, United States

  • Pros:

    Authentic Mexican cuisine, friendly service, cozy atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Limited parking, cash-only policy, may be too spicy for some
  • Popular Menu:

    Tacos, enchiladas, guacamole
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Mid-Range
  • Downtown Spots

15. Maritza's Mexican Food

Authentic Mexican cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere

  • Time:

    11 AM to 8 PM

  • Rating: 4.7/5 (405 Review by google)
  • Address:

    3582 Mt Acadia Blvd Suite D, San Diego, CA 92111, United States

  • Pros:

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

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

    Tacos, Burritos, Enchiladas
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Hidden Gems
  • Happy Hours

16. Burros & Fries Clairemont

Family-owned business since 1980, offers catering services

  • Time:

    9 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 3.9/5 (210 Review by google)
  • Address:

    4705 Clairemont Dr, San Diego, CA 92117, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of menu options, generous portions, friendly service
  • Cons:

    Some dishes may be too greasy for some, hit-or-miss consistency, can get crowded
  • Popular Menu:

    Burritos, nachos, specialty fries
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Vegetarian Options

17. Tacos La Chorreada

Phone Directions

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Downtown Spots

18. Cotixan Mexican Food

Authentic Mexican food with homemade sauces and marinades

  • Time:

    6 AM to 1 AM

  • Rating: 3.9/5 (427 Review by google)
  • Address:

    4676 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92117, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of Mexican dishes, generous portions, friendly service
  • Cons:

    Some dishes may be too spicy for some palates, limited seating, cash-only
  • Popular Menu:

    Carne asada burrito, carne asada fries, al pastor tacos
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats