Best Latin American Restaurants in University Heights

10 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Puesto Mission Valley restaurant

1. Puesto Mission Valley

4.6

Exceptional(1982)

Price: Moderate

• Latin american • Mission Valley

Booked 65 times today

Puesto Mission Valley in San Diego epitomizes the essence of authentic, innovative Mexican cuisine, delighting diners with its fresh, non-GMO organic ingredients and heirloom Masienda blue corn tortillas. Celebrated for its "Mexico City-inspired tacos," each dish is a burst of flavor and tradition, with "the filet mignon tacos" often hailed as a must-try. The restaurant prides itself on its vibrant ambiance and exceptional service, making every dining experience memorable. Guests rave about the "amazing food and service," noting that the coconut margarita and pozole taco are standout choices. Puesto consistently exceeds expectations, offering a culinary journey that is both genuine and extraordinary, right in the heart of Mission Valley.

2. Cocina de Barrio

4.7

Exceptional(421)

Price: Moderate

• Latin american • Hillcrest

Booked 7 times today

At Cocina de Barrio in Hillcrest, San Diego, the Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service is a standout experience that impresses with its extensive selection of tequila and mezcal, alongside a vibrant array of craft cocktails. Patrons rave about the "gorgeous and well-balanced cocktails" and particularly praise the strawberry blanco margarita and mango mezcal margarita as "the best margaritas we have had in a long time." The bar's atmosphere is described as unpretentious yet unique, creating a perfect backdrop for enjoying innovative drinks paired with delicious Mexican cuisine. With reviews highlighting the "amazing happy hour menu" and noting that the drinks are "like sipping happiness in a glass," Cocina de Barrio ensures each visit is a delightful and authentic experience. Whether for a casual outing or a special occasion, this bar delivers top-tier service, exquisite drinks, and a truly memorable ambiance.

3. Tahona Bar

4.4

Awesome(615)

Price: Moderate

• Latin american • Old Town

Booked 21 times today

Tahona Bar, nestled in the historic Old Town of San Diego, is a beacon of Latin American culinary excellence, particularly celebrated for its innovative approach to Mexican cuisine and its extensive mezcal offerings. The restaurant transports diners to a modern Mexican hacienda, complete with traditionally crafted décor and a vibrant atmosphere. Guests rave about the authenticity and creativity of the dishes, with one patron exclaiming, "The food here is amazing! All of the tacos are so creative and delicious" and another highlighting the "incredible flavors" that make Tahona a must-visit. The mezcal cocktails, described as "unique, complex, and delicious," along with their award-winning mixologists, ensure that every visit is both memorable and delightful. Tahona Bar stands out not just for its food but for an all-encompassing Latin American dining experience that is both intimate and exhilarating.

4. Camino Riviera

4.8

Exceptional(32)

Price: Expensive

• Latin american • Little Italy

At Camino Riviera in Little Italy, San Diego, diners are transported on a full sensory journey through the flavors of Yucatán, perfectly blending traditional Latin American essence with a modern twist. The culinary expertise of SDCM Corporate Executive Chef, Brian Redzikowski, shines through an eclectic menu that is both avant-garde and authentically Mexican. Celebrated for its unique atmosphere, Camino Riviera is not just a dining experience but a vibrant social hub. Reviewers rave about the "amazing food" and "exceptional drinks," with cocktails like "Tupac's Revenge" being a crowd favorite. The ambiance is described as "sultry," perfect for an unforgettable evening, with a bar program that honors Latin America's rich spirit heritage, featuring rare mezcal and tequila. Whether it's for the gourmet cuisine, the crafted drinks, or the dance floor vibes, Camino Riviera stands out as a top destination for Latin American culinary excellence in San Diego.

5. Flama Llama

4.5

Awesome(57)

Price: Moderate

• Latin american • Kearny Mesa

Booked 5 times today

Welcome to Flama Llama, an exceptional gem located in Kearny Mesa, San Diego, where Latin flavors dance delightfully with Asian influences. This fusion restaurant has mastered an eclectic mix, offering dishes that brilliantly blend Peruvian zest with Asian subtlety. Guests rave about the "amazing Latin-Asian cuisine that leaves you dancing," with standout dishes like the tender beef saltado paired perfectly with potato wedges and the innovative Thai tea flan. With its vibrant atmosphere and a menu that promises a culinary adventure, Flama Llama is a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in "flavors that pop" and a dining experience that is as authentic as it is unforgettable.

A photo of Zama Restaurant & Bar restaurant

6. Zama Restaurant & Bar

4.0

Excellent(280)

Price: Expensive

• Latin american • Downtown

Booked 21 times today

Zama Restaurant & Bar in vibrant downtown San Diego expertly fuses Latin American flavors with exquisite Asian culinary techniques, creating a unique dining experience that stands out in the city's food scene. Esteemed Chef Tayuka Kudo, formerly of Nobu and Lumi, brings authenticity and excellence to Zama's Japanese-inspired sushi bar, ensuring every dish is a masterpiece. Patrons rave about the "incredible" food and "fantastic" ambiance, highlighting the Asian fusion dishes that are "cooked to perfection." Whether it’s the creatively presented ceviche or the perfectly cooked King salmon, Zama promises an unforgettable meal that brilliantly showcases the best of Asian cuisine with a Latin twist.

7. Barrio Star

4.3

Awesome(1092)

Price: Moderate

• Latin american • Banker's Hill

Booked 3 times today

Barrio Star in Banker's Hill, San Diego, is a gem for those seeking an authentic Latin American experience with a modern twist. This vibrant eatery offers a delightful mix of Mexican soul food and bold Latin flavors, perfectly complemented by clever Asian touches. Chef Isabel Cruz, an award-winning visionary, ensures each dish is not only flavorful but also presented with care. Patrons rave about the "best tacos" and the "fresh fruit margaritas," highlighting the use of fresh ingredients and house-made tequila. The lively atmosphere and excellent service only enhance the dining experience, making Barrio Star a must-visit for anyone craving a unique and delicious Latin American meal.

8. Puesto La Jolla

4.6

Exceptional(2107)

Price: Moderate

• Latin american • La Jolla

Booked 51 times today

Puesto La Jolla is a gem in La Jolla, San Diego, renowned for its exceptional Contemporary Mexican cuisine. This award-winning restaurant, celebrated by outlets like National Geographic and the Michelin Guide, offers a unique culinary experience with its Mexico City-style crispy melted cheese tacos on non-GMO, organic maíz azul tortillas. Chef Luisteen Gonzales crafts vibrant dishes, from fresh ceviches to inventive tacos, praised for their “amazing flavors” and described as “the best tacos ever!” by satisfied diners. The lively ambiance, complemented by an innovative bar program featuring hand-crafted cocktails and exclusive Mexican wines, ensures every visit is memorable. As one review raves, it's “an absolute must-try!” with “outstanding service and food.”

9. Casa Gabriela

4.6

Exceptional(734)

Price: Moderate

• Latin american • La Mesa

Booked 52 times today

Experience the heart of Latin American cuisine at Casa Gabriela in Downtown La Mesa, where Chef Gabriela Lopez crafts a menu with deep roots in her Mexican heritage and a cosmopolitan flair from Tijuana. Diners rave about the authentic, hand-crafted dishes that evoke the spirit of Baja California and beyond. "The enchiladas were delicious," and "Crispy carnitas was the best we have ever had," are just a glimpse of the glowing reviews that highlight the quality and creativity of the food. The ambiance, from the spacious garden to the cozy loft, complements the exceptional dining experience, making Casa Gabriela a must-visit for authentic Latin American flavors.

A photo of Mario's De La Mesa Restaurant restaurant

10. Mario's De La Mesa Restaurant

4.4

Awesome(3)

Price: Moderate

• Latin american • La Mesa

Booked 1 time today

Experience the heart of Sonora and Sinaloa at Mario's De La Mesa Restaurant, where every dish tells a story of tradition and culinary mastery. Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of La Mesa, this family-owned gem stands out for its commitment to authenticity and freshness. Patrons rave about the "amazing pico de gallo" and "perfectly cooked shrimp," highlighting the careful attention to quality ingredients and homemade recipes. From the tantalizing machaca and eggs to the creamy jalapeño shrimp, every meal is a fiesta of flavors. As one customer put it, "If I could, I would give this place more than 5 stars. This would be my last meal if I got the death sentence." Mario's is not just a meal; it’s a memorable dining experience that keeps locals and newcomers alike coming back for more. Join us at Mario's for a taste of true Regional Mexican cuisine right here in La Mesa.

‘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

D
David
Los Angeles •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Charming restaurant and bar in old town. Sat at the friendly bar, and enjoyed a cocktail, and a flight of great mezcal along with Tacos, and house special guacamole and chips/salsas. All food was presented nicely and was fresh and delicious. Very fun place.
More info
Tahona BarPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Old Town
•
4.4
VM
VineetM
New York City •23 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Nice atmosphere, great food and outstanding service.Excellent Margaritas Please start serving Pinot Grigio. It is inexpensive and one of the most popular white wines now. Highly tecommend
More info
Puesto Mission ValleyPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Mission Valley
•
4.6
G
Gerald
San Diego •24 reviews
4.0
Dined 5 days ago
Maybe it’s because it was a Sunday but we waited about 20 minutes to be seated even though the restaurant was about 25% full. Once seated, the service was good and four of the five dishes we ordered were very good and reasonably priced. Interesting food combinations but not the place to go to if you want a salad.
More info
Flama LlamaPrice: Moderate• Latin American• Kearny Mesa
•
4.5
J
Jayti
New York City •1 review
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
Great vegan food and drinks! We loved the cocktails there. The service is impressive.
More info
Cocina de BarrioPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Hillcrest
•
4.7
J
John Paul
San Diego •8 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
Found this restaurant on OpenTable and was not disappointed. The ambiance is incredible and the food matches it perfectly. However, I think the service, at least our server in particular, was extremely helpful and that really made the whole experience that much better for us.
More info
Camino RivieraPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Mexican• Little Italy
•
4.8

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University Heights

Latin american

Best Latin American Restaurants in University Heights

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Award-winning

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10 restaurants available nearby

1. Puesto Mission Valley

2. Cocina de Barrio

3. Tahona Bar

4. Camino Riviera

5. Flama Llama

6. Zama Restaurant & Bar

7. Barrio Star

8. Puesto La Jolla

9. Casa Gabriela

10. Mario's De La Mesa Restaurant

See what locals rave about

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