Old Town Mexican Café

Top choice in San Diego


In business since the 1970s, this vibrant Mexican joint delivers authentic south-of-the-border fare despite the clichéd folkloric look. Marvel at staff churning out fresh tortillas at lightning speed while you sip a margarita and anticipate the arrival of menu stars such as crispy carnitas and succulent ribs.

Agave fans have 120 tequila and mezcal varieties to get their mind around.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby San Diego attractions

1. Whaley House

0.03 MILES

Two blocks from the Old Town perimeter sits the city’s oldest brick building (circa 1856), officially certified as haunted by the US Department of…

2. El Campo Santo

0.09 MILES

Continuing east, after San Diego Ave forks right at Conde St, you’ll find this cemetery which dates from 1849. It is the resting place of some 20 souls, a…

3. Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

0.23 MILES

On the site of San Diego's first European settlement, Old Town consists of a cluster of restored or rebuilt historic 19th-century buildings filled with…

4. Casa de Carillo

0.23 MILES

Just north of Old Town, this house dates from about 1820 and is said to be the oldest house in San Diego. It is now the pro shop for the public 18-hole…

5. Presidio Hill

0.47 MILES

In 1769 Padre Junípero Serra and Gaspar de Portolá established the first Spanish settlement in California overlooking the valley of the San Diego River…

6. Junípero Serra Museum

0.51 MILES

This museum stands atop Presidio Hill, the site of California's first settlement and its first mission, known as Mission San Diego de Alcalá, founded here…

7. Spruce Street Footbridge

1.92 MILES

As you head northward toward Hillcrest consider a detour across the 375ft Spruce St Footbridge. Note that the 1912 suspension bridge, built over a deep…

8. SeaWorld San Diego

1.96 MILES

Opened in San Diego in 1964, SeaWorld became one of California’s most popular theme parks. Visitors shuttle between aquatic-themed rides, animal…