Best Contemporary Mexican Restaurants in Imperial Beach

10 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Kalaveras - Chula Vista restaurant

1. Kalaveras - Chula Vista

4.6

Exceptional(105)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary mexican • Chula Vista / Bonita

Booked 19 times today

Kalaveras in Chula Vista infuses a vibrant spirit into its Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service, making it a standout destination in the San Diego area. Patrons rave about the "over 90 different tequilas and Mezcal spirits," highlighting the quality and variety that elevate any dining experience. The bar scene is described as both "upbeat and fun," with guests particularly praising the creative drink options like the vodka-Rosemary-Lemon-Strawberry-kiwi passion fruit puree- prosecco. Reviewers frequently mention the excellent service and atmosphere, with one noting the "best service I’ve ever had anywhere in LA." Whether it's the unlimited mimosas during brunch or the $4.99 Margarita Mondays, Kalaveras delivers an exceptional Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service that's both authentic and innovative.

A photo of Puesto at the Headquarters restaurant

2. Puesto at the Headquarters

4.6

Exceptional(3491)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary mexican • Downtown

Booked 37 times today

At Puesto at the Headquarters in Downtown San Diego, the essence of authentic Mexican cuisine is exquisitely captured through an innovative culinary approach. This family-operated gem is renowned for its "Mexico City-style crispy melted cheese tacos" and handmade non-GMO, organic, maíz azul stone-ground tortillas. Patrons rave about the "fantastic food" with standout items like the shrimp taco and the "divine" Horchata. The ambiance is equally praised, described as "perfect for big group celebrations," making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists. Puesto has not only captured the hearts of its guests but also garnered attention from prestigious media outlets, including National Geographic and the LA Times, ensuring a dining experience that’s both authentic and memorable.

A photo of Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar restaurant

3. Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar

4.5

Awesome(169)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary mexican • Little Italy

Booked 12 times today

Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar in Little Italy, San Diego, stands as a beacon of Contemporary Mexican cuisine with its innovative approach to seafood. Patrons rave about the "best not Italian restaurant in little Italy" where "every piece of fish and seafood is tremendously fresh, tasty, and plenty!" The restaurant’s unique blend of Baja-inspired dishes like the snow crab claws and octopus carpaccio receive glowing accolades for their freshness and beautiful presentation. The ambiance is equally praised, described as "hip, warm" with an "awesome atmosphere." The combination of finely crafted cocktails, attentive service, and an eclectic menu ensures that Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar is a must-visit for an authentic and memorable dining experience.

4. Embajadora

4.5

Awesome(82)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary mexican • Tijuana

Booked 5 times today

Embajadora nace para convertirse en la embajada culinaria de México. Llevando a nuestros comensales a un viaje rebosante de la rica cultura gastronómica del país.Recorriendo el norte, con los cortes de carne como protagonistas. Pasando por la costa para disfrutar la pesca del día y llegando a la región central con los platillos más célebres. Para acentos tropicales, nos dirigimos a la costa caribeña y terminamos en la península sur, con sabores ancestrales del legado de nuestro país. Una experiencia con sabores de norte a sur.

5. Oryx Restaurante

4.8

Exceptional(145)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary mexican • Tijuana

Booked 5 times today

Oryx Restaurante in Tijuana is a hidden gem for Speakeasy enthusiasts, offering an exquisite fusion of Californian and Baja Californian flavors that promise an unforgettable culinary adventure. The restaurant has gained a stellar reputation for its "balanced and innovative" flavors and "outstanding" service, as highlighted in glowing reviews. Diners rave about the "amazing experience" provided by the ambient music and the welcoming staff, making it a must-visit for those seeking a relaxed yet sophisticated dining atmosphere. Whether it's the "fantastic meal" or the engaging interaction with the chef, Oryx Restaurante delivers a Speakeasy experience that is both authentic and memorable, making every visit a reason to return.

6. Blind Burro

4.5

Awesome(673)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary mexican • Downtown

Booked 3 times today

At The Blind Burro in Downtown San Diego, the spirit and flavors of contemporary Mexican cuisine come alive. Nestled in the vibrant East Village, this restaurant stands out for its fresh, coastal Baja-inspired dishes, which guests adore for their authenticity and creativity. Praised for its exceptional service and lively atmosphere, The Blind Burro offers an array of standout dishes, from sizzling surf & turf tacos to the beloved carne asada chimichangas, described by a patron as "phenomenal." Another diner raved, "The best chips and variety of salsas. Delicious drinks such as the sangria and Margarita on the rocks. Highly recommend the lobster tacos. To die for!" It's clear why this spot is a local favorite, perfect for a pre-game meal or a casual meetup, making every visit a delightful culinary adventure.

A photo of Casa Tijuana Project restaurant

7. Casa Tijuana Project

4.8

Exceptional(59)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary mexican • Tijuana

Booked 2 times today

Casa Tijuana. Comida Rica, Todo el día. Cocina Mexicana by Chef Juan Cabrera Vinos, Drinks y un gran servicio, en un concepto único. Una Casa. Confortable y con detalles de arte en cada espacio. Te recomendamos seguir tu antojo y disfrutar de un espacio especial. Familiar, para parejas y negocios. Desayunos, Comida y Cena. Lunes a Domingo.

8. Fisher's

4.0

Excellent(135)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary mexican • Little Italy

Booked 4 times today

Nestled in San Diego's vibrant Little Italy, Fisher's stands out for its exceptional Contemporary Mexican cuisine, masterfully blending traditional flavors with innovative seafood creations. Since its humble beginnings in 1989, Fisher's has captivated diners with dishes that are both "authentic from Mexico City and great spice!” as per one ecstatic review. Guests rave about the "unique flavors" and consider the ceviche among the "best ever had." Fisher's not only promises an unforgettable dining experience with its friendly ambiance and "excellent cocktails," but it also delights with attentive service and a menu that makes every visit a culinary discovery. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Fisher's is highly recommended for anyone looking to enjoy top-notch Contemporary Mexican cuisine right in the heart of San Diego.

9. Mision 19

4.6

Exceptional(34)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary mexican • Tijuana

Booked 2 times today

Mision 19, nestled in the heart of Tijuana, is a beacon of Mediterranean excellence, recently graced by the prestigious Guía Michelin's recommendation. Chef Román Almaraz crafts dishes that are both a visual and gastronomic delight, exemplifying the rich flavors and authenticity of Mediterranean cuisine. Patrons rave about the "spectacular" dining experience, highlighting the grilled octopus as a standout, described as "tender, full of flavor," and perfectly complemented by its sauce. The commitment to quality is evident, with one visitor noting, "Everything we ordered here was great. All of the flavors are well balanced." This restaurant not only promises but delivers an epicurean journey that tantalizes the senses and leaves guests planning their next visit.

A photo of CAFE DE LA FLOR - CHAPULTEPEC restaurant

10. CAFE DE LA FLOR - CHAPULTEPEC

4.4

Awesome(18)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary mexican • Tijuana

Somos un restaurante comprometido con la excelencia en el servicio y la actualización de nuestro menú. Tenemos la finalidad de crear experiencias memorables en compañía de tus familiares, amigos y compañeros de trabajo.

‘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
Dillonvip
New York City •7 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
It was a pleasant dining experience. We sat between two heat lamps just outside of the restaurant. The special crudo of the day was refreshing and clean tasting. The two-face tostada was also good. The memorable dish of the night was the risotto. It was creamy but not overly rich and the rice had a good bite to it.
More info
Crudo Ceviche & Oyster BarPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Little Italy
•
4.5
T
Tiffani
Idaho •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
100% a must go if you are in the area. Salsas, guac, and tacos were all absolutely amazing. Our waitress, Rachel, was very nice and attentive, even with it so busy. We had a great time.
More info
Puesto at the HeadquartersPrice: Expensive• Mexican• Downtown
•
4.6
V
vishakhavip
San Diego •9 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Consistently excellent restaurant. Service and food are 5 star and elevated. Ambiance is lively and beautiful. Great location to meet people for a dinner or a drink. Noise level is perfect- festive, but can hear each other.
More info
Javier's - La JollaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• La Jolla
•
4.6
J
John Paul
San Diego •8 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 16, 2024
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
R
Ruth
San Diego •2 reviews
4.0
Dined on Oct 12, 2024
Love the drinks and appetizer, great services. No noise from the street.
More info
EmbajadoraPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Mexican• Tijuana
•
4.5

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Imperial Beach

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Best Contemporary Mexican Restaurants in Imperial Beach

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10 restaurants available nearby

1. Kalaveras - Chula Vista

2. Puesto at the Headquarters

3. Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar

4. Embajadora

5. Oryx Restaurante

6. Blind Burro

7. Casa Tijuana Project

8. Fisher's

9. Mision 19

10. CAFE DE LA FLOR - CHAPULTEPEC

See what locals rave about

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