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Best Contemporary Mexican Restaurants in Downtown

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14 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Puesto at the Headquarters restaurant
1. Puesto at the Headquarters
4.6
Exceptional(3545)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary mexican • Downtown
Booked 22 times today
Puesto at the Headquarters in Downtown San Diego serves up an exceptional Traditional Mexican experience that is both authentic and innovative. Known for their acclaimed Mexico City-style crispy melted cheese tacos, each bite is a celebration of flavor on handmade, non-GMO, organic maíz azul stone-ground tortillas. "The tacos are fabulous and unique," praise diners, emphasizing the filet mignon and shrimp as standout choices. The vibrant atmosphere complements their culinary delights, with handcrafted cocktails and a curated selection of tequilas and mezcals enhancing the experience. For those seeking genuine Mexican flavors with a modern twist, Puesto is "100% a must go."
A photo of Camino Riviera restaurant
2. Camino Riviera
4.5
Awesome(39)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary mexican • Little Italy
Booked 14 times today
Camino Riviera in Little Italy, San Diego, offers an exceptional Cocktail Bar experience that is both authentic and innovative. The bar program is anchored in classic cocktails but shines with its diverse selection of rare mezcal and tequila, celebrating the rich spirits and flavors of Latin America. Patrons rave about the "incredibly well-crafted drinks" and the knowledgeable staff, who provide insightful recommendations and elevate the entire cocktail experience. The ambiance, described as "inviting and beautifully decorated," perfectly complements the exquisite drinks. Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or new to the scene, Camino Riviera promises a memorable and delightful evening.
A photo of Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar restaurant
3. Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar
4.7
Exceptional(195)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary mexican • Little Italy
Booked 20 times today
Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar in Little Italy, San Diego, offers an exceptional seafood dining experience that transports your taste buds straight to the vibrant coasts of Baja. Revered for its "excellent fresh fish" and "super fresh oysters," this culinary gem crafts each dish with quality ingredients and meticulous attention to detail. Diners rave about the "creative crudo, ceviche, and aguachile," each plate a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to authenticity and flavor. The unique tostadas are described as "a work of art," adding a visual feast to the already irresistible flavors. Crudo promises a seafood adventure that is "worth several visits."
A photo of Blind Burro restaurant
4. Blind Burro
4.5
Awesome(676)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary mexican • Downtown
Booked 2 times today
The Blind Burro specializes in fresh, coastal Baja Mexican cuisine. Our emphasis is on quality, from the customer service, to the ingredients we use in all of our hand crafted food and drinks. We want our guests to enjoy Baja Mexican fare right here in East Village, San Diego. Come in and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere where you can meet over a carafe of spicy margaritas or on tap house sangria. . Or try us for lunch with clients while enjoying steak tacos and a quinoa mixed green salad. Hope to see you soon in the unique, airy and comfortable environment we have created for you in downtown San Diego. **All checks will have a 4% pandemic recovery surcharge due to the additional costs associated with the impact on our business and operations. This is not a gratuity and will be used to help us offset the additional product, labor, overhead and other costs.**
A photo of Puesto Mission Valley restaurant
5. Puesto Mission Valley
4.6
Exceptional(2050)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary mexican • Mission Valley
Booked 55 times today
Puesto Mission Valley is a vibrant gem in the heart of San Diego, delivering exceptional Contemporary Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. Family-owned and operated, Puesto stands out with its commitment to authenticity and innovation. Diners rave about the "amazingly tasty and flavorful" tacos crafted from non-GMO, organic, heirloom blue corn tortillas, perfectly complemented by their scratch salsas. The restaurant is well-known for its "outstanding food and service," with patrons frequently praising the "superb" filet mignon tacos and "show-stopping" guacamole. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying Taco Tuesday, Puesto promises an unforgettable dining experience that keeps guests coming back.
A photo of El Agave restaurant
6. El Agave
4.8
Exceptional(2509)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary mexican • Old Town
Booked 40 times today
El Agave in Old Town, San Diego, is a beacon of Traditional Mexican cuisine that captures the heart and soul of Mexico with every dish. Established in 1996, this restaurant not only offers "delicious Margie and food" but also boasts the largest tequila museum in the United States, with over 3,000 tequilas on display. Renowned for its impeccable service and "unique and beautiful" decor, El Agave is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Guests rave about its "authentic, no refried beans" dishes and the "best mole in town," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine Mexican culinary experience.
A photo of Cocina de Barrio North Park restaurant
7. Cocina de Barrio North Park
4.6
Exceptional(12)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary mexican • North Park
Booked 10 times today
*Brunch hours are on a walk-in basis only.Cocina de Barrio by Chef Jose J. FloresWelcome to Cocina de Barrio, the newest modern-urban Mexican restaurant located in North Park! We are proud to feature the culinary richness of Oaxaca as well as other Mexican regions. Stop by and enjoy our bar stocked with plenty of tequila and mezcal selections, beer, and wines sourced from Valle Guadalupe.Don't forget to join us during our daily brunch (where we add a Mexican kick) and our happy hour every Monday-Friday from 3-5pm! Stay Chido!
A photo of Barrio Star restaurant
8. Barrio Star
4.6
Exceptional(1103)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary mexican • Banker's Hill
Booked 6 times today
The sky’s the limit at Barrio Star--presenting San Diego with modern Mexican Soul Food woven with bold Latin flavors and clever Asian touches. As one of several restaurants created by award-winning chef and restaurateur Isabel Cruz, Barrio Star’s bright and lively décor is a metaphor for what we proudly serve. Our vibrant flavors and healthier renditions of classic Mexican dishes reveal thoughtfully presented menu items that are sure to please every palate. Pairing with our well-prepared food is a mouthwatering beer and cocktail menu. Besides serving standard Mexican beers, we also offer rotating drafts as well as an extensive tequila menu. Kickstart the evening with our roasted jalapeno blackberry margarita and let the fiesta begin!
A photo of Tahona Bar restaurant
9. Tahona Bar
4.7
Exceptional(648)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary mexican • Old Town
Booked 15 times today
Tahona Bar in Old Town, San Diego is a gem for lovers of authentic Latin American cuisine, specializing in "contemporary Mexican delights with a focus on Oaxacan bites." This first-of-its-kind mezcal bar in the area promises an unforgettable dining experience, with craft cocktails and a mezcal tasting room that evoke the rich traditions of Mexico. The vibrant atmosphere, enhanced by "hand-clayed walls and traditionally crafted Oaxacan fabrics," creates a truly immersive experience. Glowing reviews commend the "innovative tacos" and "excellent fresh Mexican food," ensuring that each visit is "not your typical Mexican food" but a delightful journey to the heart of Latin America.
A photo of Fisher's restaurant
10. Fisher's
4.1
Excellent(137)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary mexican • Little Italy
Booked 1 time today
Fisher's in San Diego's vibrant Little Italy offers a seafood dining experience that's both authentic and exquisite. Renowned for its “unique and very tasty” dishes, Fisher's ensures every bite is a testament to the freshness of its offerings. The Seafood Rice, bursting with perfectly cooked varieties, and the Sea Bass with its “wonderful crispy crust” are standout dishes that have diners raving. Guests have lauded Fisher's for its “excellent service and food,” describing the seafood as “fresh, savory, tasty, and well-prepared.” With a legacy rooted in Mexico City flavors, Fisher's promises an unforgettable seafood journey that keeps patrons coming back for more.

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Discover best Contemporary Mexican restaurants in Downtown

Explore the vibrant world of contemporary Mexican cuisine right in the heart of Downtown San Diego. Our curated selection features restaurants that excel in blending traditional Mexican flavors with modern culinary techniques, ensuring a unique dining experience for every visitor. Each establishment is noted for its commitment to quality, utilizing fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to craft dishes that both intrigue and delight the palate. From innovative takes on classic tacos to gourmet seafood infused with rich Mexican spices, these dining spots offer a fresh perspective on Mexican cuisine that caters to both locals and tourists alike. Downtown San Diego's dining scene is characterized by its dynamic approach to international cuisine, with contemporary Mexican restaurants playing a significant role in this culinary diversity. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or a sophisticated dining experience, these restaurants provide atmospheres that perfectly complement their creative menus. Discover the essence of modern Mexican cooking in Downtown San Diego and indulge in a culinary journey that promises to be as enriching as it is delicious.

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