THE TEN BEST RESTAURANTS IN OLD TOWN SAN DIEGO THAT ARE NOT TOURIST TRAPS
Posted on 13-02-2023 12:06 AM
THE TEN BEST RESTAURANTS IN OLD TOWN SAN DIEGO THAT ARE NOT TOURIST TRAPS
A RANGE OF 10 OLD TOWN SAN DIEGO RESTAURANTS THAT ARE NOT TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
Old Town is not a favorite dining option for many San Diegans, especially when they have visitors in town. Old Town San Diego's restaurants are mostly tourist traps, as they say. They're the kind where the food is over-Americanized, the margaritas are weak, and the decor is a bit kitschy. Also, there are never-ending Mariachi bands
Just a little heads up. San Diego's Old Town is not the place to find authentic Mexican food. San Ysidro, Chula Vista, or National City are good places to do that. Or, even better, head south of the border, where you'll get the real deal. Here is our guide to the best things to do in Tijuana. Old Town isn't void of tasty food, though. The Old Town area has some fantastic restaurants with delicious food and a great atmosphere.
Visit our Old Town guide for more information about all the things to do
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There's something for everyone at this vibrant Mexican restaurant. When you dine on the stunning patio on the main outside area, you really feel like you're on a mini vacation in Mexico. Although the food is not the most authentic, you will enjoy a delicious meal in a beautiful setting.
Authentic margarita glass and menu at Casa Guadalajara Old Town San Diego
Then look no further if you want something extra special. Sushi Tadokoro is one of San Diego's top sushi restaurants, recently receiving a Michelin Star. Take your taste buds on an explosion of seafood by ordering an Omakase menu. Definitely worth it!
In case you don't know what to do, consider the Urban Market Old Town food hall. Guests can choose from fish tacos to birria tacos, donuts, coffee, wine, cocktails and micheladas, and then gather at their cozy rooftop terrace and enjoy their meal.
Cafe Coyote prides itself on upholding its reputation as a Best Mexican Food winner for 18 consecutive years. A popular spot for Mexican food, this place caters to the community in a festive and intimate setting.
If you are in the mood for some Tequila, you can try one of the many selections or even sip on a mixed drink created by the master bartender as you eat. No matter what you have, you will have a good time.
With this local chain, you can eat full of lovingly authentic food for hours. Definitely a funky vibe. During your meal, you can enjoy the sun outside or inside. On the weekdays, it is usually quieter and makes for a nice place for lunch or supper.
You can get fresh food made with quality ingredients, and there are so many options to choose from. Friend groups, families, friends, partners, young and old, big and small, are all welcome. Everyone is treated like family.
Old Town San Diego fish tacos close-up
An Old Town San Diego Fish Taco
Breakfast or early lunch at Perrys is a typical SoCal-style diner. It's one of those spots where time stands still, when you get called honey by the waitress, and the corned beef hash and french toast taste like the childhood memories you remember.
Miguels stands out from all the Mexican food places in Old Town. It is a popular tourist attraction because of the warm, loving atmosphere and the consistently hot food. It is worthwhile to wait or make a reservation at this local San Diego chain if you just walk in.
Taking a closer look at two copper cups with cocktails
The Tahona collection offers a rustic style with a modern flare. A great deal of time and energy is spent educating the public on the beautiful complexity of Mexican culture.
They offer over 120 different versions of mezcal, an iconic Oaxacan beverage. There is a premium price for their tacos, but they are truly innovative and the presentation is stunning. In this case, a street taco worth $7+ is well worth it. Definitely worth a visit if you are in the area. Before we let you go, we need to let you know that in the back of the restaurant, through a secret passageway, you are going to find one of San Diego's coolest speakeasies.
3 different moles medley as an appetizer at Tahona Bar, one of the most popular restaurants in Old Town San Diego.
Can you tell me if this is the best Italian restaurant in San Diego? Probably not. A cozy neighborhood joint where locals go for great food, a waiter who remembers their name, and great value. Perfectly cooked shrimp with mushrooms over pasta in a garlicky white wine sauce is said to be the restaurant's signature dish, Scampi alla Giulio. So good!
In San Diego, this restaurant is regarded as one of the best seafood restaurants. Fish tacos are good, the quality is good, and the price is right. In addition to their grilled swordfish that is cooked to perfection, they also serve huge bowls of Cioppino. Definitely worth a visit if you're a seafood lover!