Best Contemporary Mexican Restaurants in Ocean Beach

16 restaurants available nearby

1. El Agave

4.7

Exceptional(2484)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary mexican • Old Town

Booked 37 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.

2. Camino Riviera

4.8

Exceptional(34)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary mexican • Little Italy

Booked 19 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.

3. Tahona Bar

4.5

Awesome(633)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary mexican • Old Town

Booked 8 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 Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar restaurant

4. Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar

4.6

Exceptional(180)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary mexican • Little Italy

Booked 17 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 Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina restaurant

5. Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina

3.9

Excellent(1148)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary mexican • Old Town

Booked 15 times today

Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina is an exceptional spot for authentic American cuisine, offering a delightful experience in the heart of San Diego’s historic Old Town. Diners rave about the "great service" and "fantastic views," making it an ideal destination for both locals and visitors. The rooftop setting adds a unique charm, perfect for a sunset dinner. The Sunday Champagne brunch is a standout, described as "excellent" with "lots to choose from." Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, the "impeccable service" and delicious food ensure a memorable dining experience.

A photo of Miguel's Cocina - Old Town restaurant

6. Miguel's Cocina - Old Town

4.5

Awesome(31)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary mexican • Old Town

Booked 11 times today

Miguel's Cocina - Old Town offers an impressive showcase of Contemporary Mexican cuisine, blending Cali-inspired flavors with authentic Mexican roots. Located in the heart of Old Town, San Diego, this family-friendly restaurant is renowned for its "handmade tortillas and mouthwatering salsas," setting it apart as a must-visit dining destination. Guests rave about the "famous creamy jalapeno white sauce" and the "best guacamole ever," highlighting the restaurant’s commitment to quality and taste. With a lively atmosphere and dishes like Fajitas Supreme and carne asada, Miguel's Cocina promises an unforgettable culinary experience, perfect for both locals and visitors alike.

7. Fisher's

4.2

Awesome(136)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary mexican • Little Italy

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.

A photo of Javier's - La Jolla restaurant

8. Javier's - La Jolla

4.6

Exceptional(3567)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary mexican • La Jolla

Booked 206 times today

Javier's - La Jolla is a beacon of Contemporary Mexican excellence, captivating diners with its "amazing food" and "beautiful setting." Nestled in the scenic neighborhood of La Jolla, San Diego, this restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience that seamlessly blends authentic flavors with modern flair. Guests rave about the "exceptionally good food" and "best chips and salsa in town," a testament to the quality ingredients and meticulous preparation. The vibrant ambiance, often described as both "classy and hip," perfectly complements the exquisite offerings like the shrimp ceviche and specialty tacos. Whether for a special occasion or a casual outing, Javier's promises a "fantastic meal" every time.

A photo of Puesto at the Headquarters restaurant

9. Puesto at the Headquarters

4.6

Exceptional(3509)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary mexican • Downtown

Booked 68 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."

10. Puesto La Jolla

4.6

Exceptional(2136)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary mexican • La Jolla

Booked 68 times today

Puesto La Jolla is a culinary gem in the heart of La Jolla, San Diego, celebrated for its exceptional Contemporary Mexican cuisine. This Mexican Artisan Kitchen & Bar delivers "incredible tacos" that leave a lasting impression, especially the renowned filet mignon and shrimp tacos. Puesto's innovative approach to authentic Mexican flavors is evident in the crispy melted cheese tacos, crafted on handmade non-GMO, organic, maíz azul stone-ground tortillas. Guests rave about the "artistic, creative, and delicious" dishes, complemented by a stellar bar program featuring handcrafted cocktails and unique Mexican spirits. With accolades from the Michelin Guide and rave reviews, Puesto promises a "fantastic vibe" and an unforgettable dining experience.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

A
Amanda
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
The food was small portions but everything I had tasted amazing! Every time I took a bite of something different I was wowed. The Brussels sprouts were my top favorite!!
More info
Camino RivieraPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Mexican• Little Italy
•
4.8
T
Tony
San Diego •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Food is delicious and we liked the view. Will go back for sure.
More info
Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & CantinaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Old Town
•
3.9
A
Alicia
San Diego •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Everything I had was delicious. Loved the oysters, yellowtail , octopus, noodles with crab meat, and risotto with scallops and mushrooms
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Crudo Ceviche & Oyster BarPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Little Italy
•
4.6
E
Eric
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
It’s refreshing that this level of customer service still exists. Starting off with the hostess, she was incredible. Very welcoming, very polite and was willing to make a minor adjustment to our preferred seating section. The bartenders were also incredible. I left it in their hands to make a recommendation and I was appreciative that they didn’t try to sell me a $100 shot of tequila. They gave me something middle of the road that was incredible.
More info
El AgavePrice: Moderate• Mexican• Old Town
•
4.7
T
TanaVIP
San Diego •66 reviews
4.0
Dined on 27 Dec 2024
We throughly enjoyed our dinner at Miguel’s. I think they revamped the menu from the last time I was there, an improvement! The service was excellent.
More info
Miguel's Cocina - Old TownPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Old Town
•
4.5

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Best Contemporary Mexican Restaurants in Ocean Beach

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16 restaurants available nearby

1. El Agave

2. Camino Riviera

3. Tahona Bar

4. Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar

5. Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina

6. Miguel's Cocina - Old Town

7. Fisher's

8. Javier's - La Jolla

9. Puesto at the Headquarters

10. Puesto La Jolla

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