Best Latin American Restaurants in College Area

Our new favorite restaurant! Consistently great food in beautiful surroundings.

Thank you Flama Llama for making my 7 yo son’s bday lunch special. We came in a group of 11 and they accommodated us quickly. The servers were very attentive and the food were wonderful. They even gave my son desserts for free. The kids especially loved the life size llama structure in the front.

Great service from the moment we walked in from the host, bartender and server. Excellent food. Good happy hour deals.

If you’re looking for authentic, flavorful, and consistently delicious Mexican food in La Mesa, look no further than Mario’s de la Mesa. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with warm, friendly service that makes you feel like part of the family. The atmosphere is cozy, casual, and filled with the mouthwatering aroma of fresh, homemade dishes. Their carne asada burrito is hands-down one of the best in San Diego County — perfectly grilled, tender, and packed with flavor. The enchiladas are always spot on, smothered in rich, savory sauce, and their chile relleno is a must-try: crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside. The chips and salsa are fresh and addictive, and their margaritas are the perfect blend of tart and sweet. What really sets Mario’s apart is the genuine care they put into every plate and every guest experience. It’s no surprise this place has such a loyal local following. Whether you’re stopping by for a casual lunch, a family dinner, or celebrating with friends, Mario’s de la Mesa delivers every time. Highly, highly recommend — this gem is a La Mesa treasure!

Pretty pricey but good - the food was delicious but $30 entree is a little insane.