Best Latin American Restaurants in College Area

9 restaurants available nearby

1. Casa Gabriela

4.6

Exceptional(734)

Price: Moderate

• Latin american • La Mesa

Booked 47 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

2. 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.

A photo of Puesto Mission Valley restaurant

3. Puesto Mission Valley

4.6

Exceptional(1982)

Price: Moderate

• Latin american • Mission Valley

Booked 45 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.

4. 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.

5. Tahona Bar

4.4

Awesome(615)

Price: Moderate

• Latin american • Old Town

Booked 18 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.

6. 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.

7. Flama Llama

4.5

Awesome(57)

Price: Moderate

• Latin american • Kearny Mesa

Booked 6 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

8. Zama Restaurant & Bar

4.0

Excellent(280)

Price: Expensive

• Latin american • Downtown

Booked 27 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.

9. Barrio Star

4.3

Awesome(1092)

Price: Moderate

• Latin american • Banker's Hill

Booked 4 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.

‘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

J
Julie
San Diego •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Great food! We got Chicken Tinga Tacos and Sirloin enchiladas. My $5 Margarita was beautifully presented. There being a slight chill in the air, I was given a cozy, bright red throw to put over my legs. A delightful and tasty experience.
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Casa GabrielaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• La Mesa
•
4.6
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
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Puesto Mission ValleyPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Mission Valley
•
4.6
C
Cherylvip
Los Angeles •172 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Service is always good here, but this visit it was outstanding. Thanks to server Nick for being so quick and attentive. The tacos are amazing -- really intense flavors. The chips and house salsa are great, but for an extra $2 you get generous helpings of four more salsas and it's a damn good deal. Excellent cocktails. Reservations very much recommended.
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Puesto La JollaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• La Jolla
•
4.6
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.
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Cocina de BarrioPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Hillcrest
•
4.7
OT
OpenTable Dinervip
San Diego •16 reviews
5.0
Dined on Jun 16, 2024
We’ve seen this restaurant for awhile but this was our first time here. We will return! Food was great, service too! Great guacamole. Had breakfast. Everyone loved their food. Fresh and tasty.
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Mario's De La Mesa RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Mexican• La Mesa
•
4.4

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College Area

Latin american

Best Latin American Restaurants in College Area

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9 restaurants available nearby

1. Casa Gabriela

2. Mario's De La Mesa Restaurant

3. Puesto Mission Valley

4. Cocina de Barrio

5. Tahona Bar

6. Camino Riviera

7. Flama Llama

8. Zama Restaurant & Bar

9. Barrio Star

See what locals rave about

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