RESTAURANT GUIDE
Food and History
California’s history is inextricably intertwined with Mexico and Spain. During Mexico’s colonial period 1521 to 1821 is when much of today’s Mexican fare was invented, such favorites as chile’s rellenos and guacamole and it was actually nuns who pioneered such now-traditional Mexican fare as buñuelos! In the mid Victorian period Mexico was ruled by the former Austrian archduke Ferdinand Maximilian from 1864 to 1867 and though his reign was brief and tragic, French cooking left a permanent mark on many Mexican-restaurant dishes.
Featured Restaurant
EL SUENO
El Sueño, a jungle-themed restaurant and cocktail lounge, opened in San Diego’s Old Town neighborhood in 2023. Our exquisite menu reflects business partners’ Pietro Busalacchi’s travels through Mexico and Gustavo Rios’ Huasteca heritage. El Sueño Mexican restaurant features spacious indoor dining, lush outdoor patio, luxurious large jade granite bar, and plenty of secrets to discover.
2836 Juan St San Diego, CA 92110 Wallace St & Taylor St Old Town
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I had a great experience at this restaurant! The food was fantastic and the atmosphere was great with beautiful decor. The service was wonderful. Our waiter Fernando was so attentive, accommodating and recommended us really great food and drinks. I encourage everyone to stop by at this restaurant if you are around the area!! CLICK ON THE REVEIW BELOW TO GIVE YOUR OWN
More Yelp Reviews
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Barra Barra
The Mexican food here at Barra Barra is good and the prices are reasonable for Old Town. I have dined here a few times over the last year, and my experience has always been good. Unlike that crowded place in the middle of Fiesta de Reyes (under same ownership, I believe) this place is friendly and always finds us a seat without any wait.
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Cafe Coyote
The food is okay, unfortunately it’s not what it used to be. The menudo tasted as if it was from a can, and the rest of the food just felt like it was quickly put together and didn’t have the traditional flavors and presentation as it use to have. CLICK ON THE REVEIW BELOW TO GIVE YOUR OWN
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Casa de Freds
No Response
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Casa de Reyes
The food here is amazing and love that the chips and tortillas are freshly made. we have been coming here many times just for that reason. but we always love seeing a friendly face in the bar so it’s always nice to get our amazing food with amazing service. I highly recommend going to the bar and asking for Victoria.
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Casa Guadalajara
I attended an event here with an organization. They offered a buffet style meal for the even. The food is really good, my favorite was the mahi mahi and chicken mole. Salsas could pack a little more heat. Flavor is good but definitely no heat. It is obvious who this restaurant is geared towards. I was probably the only Latina there.
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Don Pietros
The food was amazing!! I love the energy this place has and the staff is awesome. Our server was named Robinson and he was so knowledge and makes you feel so welcome. We had a family party here and really enjoyed our time. We will for sure be back and can’t wait for more!!!
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Harney Sushi
The true gem of my visit, however, was the service provided by Jocelyn, the bartender. Her expertise and affability were as refreshing as the ice-cold Sake served to perfection. Jocelyn had an uncanny ability to anticipate my palate preferences, guiding me through an array of exquisite side dishes that harmonized beautifully with each other. Her recommendations, from the crispy orange chicken to the zesty house specials, were spot on.
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Keema Cafe
Charming cozy cafe serving fresh and tasty food. Service with a smile. Dine in or out. Gotta love their coffee cart. The place is clean and euphoric. I ordered their classic breakfast which consisted of eggs and ham. Also comes with fresh fruit and toast.Simple an delicious. Also had to try their coffee. Great taste and perfect temperature. They open early and are ready to serve you. CLICK ON THE REVEIW BELOW TO GIVE YOUR OWN
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Miguels Cocina
No Response
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Old Town Mexican Cafe
The food and service were excellent! A friend recommended we try this place while visiting San Diego and it did not disappoint! This place is popular but the wait wasn’t bad.
My husband said the crispy carnitas were the best tacos he’s ever had – and the corn tortillas came straight from heaven! We loved everything and highly recommend. CLICK ON THE REVEIW BELOW TO GIVE YOUR OWN
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Pizza Bella
BEST pizza in my life!! We loved/love that we can call in our order to make additions and customize our pizza pies. Large works with extra sauce, sauce is superb. Large pepperoni extra cheese extra pepperoni! Phenomenal thin crust and extraordinary delicious hand tossed crust. A small antipasto salad here feeds 3 people! Wings not overwhelming spicy whole family even kids love them! CLICK ON THE REVEIW BELOW TO GIVE YOUR OWN
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Rockin Baja Lobster
One of top 5 places I missed when I left SD! I make it a point to come here (to this location) every time I’m in town. Located in Old Town, the scenery, and the vibe is amazing surrounding the area. You get the same energy from inside the establishment, as well as the hostess. Our waitress was on point when we walked in, and took our drink order as well as chips. CLICK ON THE REVEIW BELOW TO GIVE YOUR OWN
Tahona Bar
My friend treated me to a nice dinner here during my last night working in San Diego for the summer.
They specialize in mezcal cocktails, which after having one, I have to say is an acquired taste. The cocktail I had was on the sweeter side, but it took me a few sips before I was sold on the smoky taste from the mezcal. I wasn’t mad at it though.
