Best Traditional Mexican Restaurants in Imperial Beach

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Regions

San DiegoTijuana

Neighborhoods

Barrio LoganChula Vista / BonitaCoronadoDowntownTijuanaZona Centro

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

8 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Kalaveras - Chula Vista restaurant

1. Kalaveras - Chula Vista

4.0

Excellent(130)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Chula Vista / Bonita

Booked 4 times today

Kalaveras - Chula Vista offers an exhilarating dive into Contemporary Latin cuisine with its fusion of traditional and modern Mexican ingredients. Located in the vibrant Chula Vista, this restaurant excels by "elevating bold, authentic flavors" through chef-driven dishes that reflect a commitment to quality. Guests consistently rave about the "phenomenal food" and "amazing service," making it a standout destination for those seeking an authentic and innovative Latin dining experience. With a lively atmosphere and an impressive selection of over 90 tequilas and Mezcal spirits, Kalaveras provides a perfect setting for celebrations, offering a "delicious brunch" and "fantastic happy hour."

A photo of Cocina 35 Coronado restaurant

2. Cocina 35 Coronado

4.5

Awesome(349)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Traditional mexican • Coronado

Booked 49 times today

Our team is dedicated to bring to you the essence of Mexico, the flavors, aromas, culture, service and textures that were given to us, growing up cooking right next to our grandparents in Mexico.We are the only restaurant in San Diego that specialized in Chilaquiles the Most traditional Mexican Breakfast.#BESTCHILAQUILESINTOWN

A photo of Puesto at the Headquarters restaurant

3. Puesto at the Headquarters

4.6

Exceptional(3579)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Downtown

Booked 80 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."

4. ORIGEN 32

new

5.0

Exceptional(1)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Traditional mexican • Barrio Logan

Origen 32 brings a fresh twist to Mexican cuisine in the heart of Barrio Logan. Start your day with traditional Mexican breakfasts, from chilaquiles to molletes, or join us later for Baja-style seafood and a vibrant raw bar featuring oysters, ceviches, and more. Our casual yet modern space offers a relaxing atmosphere with a large patio perfect for gathering with friends. Whether you're stopping by for brunch, enjoying mariscos or trying our handcrafted cocktails, Origen 32 delivers authentic flavors with a local touch. Family-friendly, tourist-welcoming, and always fresh — discover your new favorite spot.

5. Karina’s Cantina

4.1

Excellent(48)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Downtown

Booked 4 times today

Simply entering a Karina’s establishment can be a sensory overload. Images, color, music, exquisite aromas and warm hospitality are surrounded by traditional Mexican figures, art and culture. Specially commissioned portraits of Frida Khalo and many of the superstars of classic Mexican cinema grace the walls of Karina’s. The sounds of Mexico with our engaging Mariachi, especially when singing of lost love, are a portrait of Mexico that our Mexican and American clientele alike delight in. Karina’s was founded on the idea of offering traditional Mexican style family cuisine made with the passion of the founding family to make everyone feel like familia.For three generations, each member of the Contreras Curiel Family has passionately and diligently worked year round for over three decades to offer a personalized services that make each guest feel at home.Wherever a Karina’s establishment is found, there will always be a piece of Mexico

A photo of El Riqui Mariscos de Carreta restaurant

6. El Riqui Mariscos de Carreta

4.0

Excellent(1)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Downtown

Booked 1 time today

El Riqui Mariscos de Carreta is a hidden gem in San Diego, offering an authentic Mexican seafood experience. Immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere filled with the aroma of fresh seafood and lively conversation. The menu features a variety of dishes, from classic aguachiles and tostadas to innovative options like the "molcajete" with shrimp, octopus, and scallops. The restaurant's commitment to freshness shines through in every bite, as they source seafood daily from local fishermen for the highest quality. The chefs blend traditional Mexican techniques with modern flair, ensuring there's something for every palate, whether you crave light ceviche or a hearty seafood platter. The colorful décor, friendly staff, and festive ambiance create a welcoming experience, perfect for gathering with friends and family or celebrating special occasions. For an unforgettable seafood experience in San Diego, visit El Riqui Mariscos de Carreta.

7. Plato de Oro

5.0

Exceptional(1)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Traditional mexican • Zona Centro

"Plato de Oro: Founded in 1950, we are an icon of Tijuana that honors Mexican tradition through our unique traditional Mexican cuisine and our commitment to quality. We stand out for providing exceptional service and an authentic culinary experience, passed down through generations and deeply rooted in the heart of our Tijuana community."

8. Piedra Santa

4.4

Awesome(44)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Traditional mexican • Tijuana

Booked 1 time today

NUESTRA CASA... TU CASA En este lugar, se vive la pasión y el gusto por la comida tradicional mexicana, por el buen sazón, el estilo, la belleza y el arte, por lo cual se realza mediante una galería dedicada al gusto de los clientes, donde se exhiben pinturas y fotografías que plasman en su lienzo un instante memorable. No hay mejor lugar para saborear un pedacito de Oaxaca, su colorido, su dinamismo, su lucha y su entrega. Son las manos las que trabajan, crean, las que exhiben y enaltecen la grandiosidad de la cultura mexicana.

‘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

L
LilyVIP
San Diego •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Food is fantastic and the service always outstanding. I always love the server’s recommendations.
More info
El AgavePrice: Moderate• Mexican• Old Town
•
4.7
M
Monica
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined on Jun 15, 2025
The fold was very tasty! Everything was flavorful and the right size!
More info
Fresco CocinaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Carlsbad
•
4.4
S
Scott
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined on Jun 5, 2025
Miguel’s is always good, any location. The best Mexican sit down restaurants serve chips and salsa when you’re seated. Miguel’s serves every patron chips, salsa and QUESO DIP!
More info
Miguel's Cocina - CarlsbadPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Carlsbad
•
4.6
F
FoodieintrainingVIP
San Diego •13 reviews
5.0
Dined on Jan 15, 2023
We increased our party size from 4 to 6 people. The staff accommodated our request. The selection of food and beverages was fantastic but the taste was even better. The servers were engaging and polite and professional. Everything was served in a timely manner. Even after we left, it was down pouring and two of the employees opened the door and beckoned for us to come inside and wait out of the rain. We 6 were very pleased and highly recommend this fine establishment.
More info
Piedra SantaPrice: Expensive• Mexican / Southwestern• Tijuana
•
4.4

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