You can hardly mention San Diego without mentioning Mexican food. Being so close to the busiest border crossing in the world means that there is a tremendous Mexican influence in San Diego, and food is no exception. From seafood to barbecue to fine dining, there is perhaps no better city in the USA to find authentic Mexican food than San Diego.
But beware, you may never be able to eat at your local “Tex-Mex” chain again after hearing about these 6 most authentic Mexican food spots in San Diego.
Las Cuatro Milpas
You better hit the ATM and be prepared to wait in line to experience some of the most well loved Mexican fare in San Diego. Cash-only Las Cuatros Milpas in Barrio Logan makes everything from scratch, including their famous homemade tortillas, so there isn’t a bad option on the menu. This place practically defines hole-in-the-wall, but more than makes up for their decor with unbelievably tasty and authentic carnitas, chorizo bowls, tamales, and tacos.
What you should order: Their Pork and Chicken Tacos are much loved for good reason.
Tacos El Gordo
There is no denying the authenticity of Tacos El Gordo in Chula Vista. That’s because Tacos El Gordo is a much-loved Tijuana taco shop that has now opened north of the border in San Diego. Tacos are pretty much the only thing on the menu here, but you can get a wide variety of fillings, such as beef tongue, chorizo, pork belly, and beef brisket. The only downside is you have to wait in a separate line for different kinds of tacos.
What you should order: Adobada tacos sliced straight off the spit roast.
TJ Oyster Bar
If Mexican seafood is calling your name, you can’t do better than TJ Oyster Bar in Chula Vista. Not only do they serve amazing fish tacos for only 99 cents, but they also have a huge variety of ceviches, aguachiles (raw shrimp cured in lime juice), tacos, and burritos. From stingray to spicy shrimp to smoked tuna to octopus, if it comes from the sea, TJ Oyster bar finds a way to make a tasty taco out of it.
What you should order: A Stingray Machaca taco because where else can you get that north of the border?
Bracero Cocina de Raiz
Authentic Mexican food doesn’t necessarily have to come from a low-key taco stand. Acclaimed Mexican chef Javier Plascencia proves this with his newly-opened and much-lauded Bracero Cocina de Raiz, which elevates Baja cuisine to a whole new level. With choices such as shrimp and bone marrow sopes and peanut smoked lamb shanks, you’ll know that you aren’t in just any Mexican restaurant.
What you should order: The albacore two ways and peanut smoked lamb shanks will have you drooling for more.
Aqui Es Texcoco
There’s nothing like a good old fashioned barbecue. Especially when it’s a traditional Mexican Lamb Barbecue at Aqui es Texcoco. The word is out on this Mexican barbecue spot thanks to its appearances on the Travel Channel and the Cooking Network, so make sure to get there early to avoid waiting. But once you do eat, the lamb barbecue is sure to put a smile on your face.
What You Should Order: Obviously, Plato de Barbacoa is the right choice here.
It’s safe to say that San Diego is full of great places if you’re craving authentic Mexican food. Once you’ve finished enjoying all the authentic Mexican food, head back to a luxury short-term rental apartment in San Diego to sleep that food off in style. Perfect for both vacationers and business travelers, PC Housing has you covered with comfortable places to stay in San Diego that are an upgrade on normal hotels. Contact us today to find out more!
Image Source: Flickr via Eric Molina