Restaurants in El Cajon
Best Restaurants
Mediterranean • $$
Brazilian • $$$
“Really good food. Extremely attentive staff. Thank you for a wonderful 40th Anniversary dinner!”
Steak House • $$
“my husband and I came here with our good friends to celebrate her birthday (and she’s really old) lol and we had Brandy as our server she was fantastic!.”
Barbecue • $$
“Loved everything we got tonight, the chicken sandwich, pulled pork, amazing! So were the fried Mac and cheese balls!!!!”
Middle Eastern • $$
“This is my first time visiting this family owned and operated family restaurant and it was an amazing experience. We were greeted by Pierre and he was professional, kind, and very informative of all the items on the menu. Everything on the menu looked great and hard to decide what to dive into. The restaurant is very clean open and very bright. I ordered the liver skewers with biryani rice. The skewers very flavorful, tender, and grilled to perfection, paired well with the onion, pickled beets, and pickles. The biryani was delicious. My wife had the beef shawarma sandwich on Arabic bread, which was tender and tasty. The potions are larger than expected which was great! We finished with a cup of hot tea. If you’re looking for some authentic Iraqi food, I highly recommend Al Awael, you will not be disappointed 😋”
Barbecue • $$
“This place gets pretty busy on weekends! The parking lot may be full but you can still park along the street. It’s pretty large so there’s usually seats. I love the borracho fries, so good! Also the pulled pork and the cheeseburger are tasty too. The service is good as well. My one complaint is they run out of their popular items by 2pm, tri tip and hot links get sold out really fast. I know they can only bbq so much but maybe add some more of the popular meats?”
Restaurants by Cuisine
Irish Pub • $$
“Great place with great food and great service, will definitely come back!”
Restaurants with Delivery
Diner • $
“Grand Slam of a place ! Been coming since childhood and never disappointed.”
Barbecue • $$
“Loved everything we got tonight, the chicken sandwich, pulled pork, amazing! So were the fried Mac and cheese balls!!!!”
Coffee Shops • $
“Great spot for a cortado and the occasional pastry! Highly recommend.”
Chicken • $
“Food is always on point and the people very friendly. But I wonder how important cleanliness is, it feels that everytime I go, the tables and floor are a mess. I get that a lot are disgusting and don't know how to clean after themselves, but as a restaurant, they should consider cleaning the dinning area. Hope this doesn't come off in a wrong way, but that's an important part in my opinion.”
Steak House • $$
“my husband and I came here with our good friends to celebrate her birthday (and she’s really old) lol and we had Brandy as our server she was fantastic!.”
Hamburger • $
“Their fish and chips and burgers are one of the best i have ever had . In my opinion its better than in n out.”
Family • $
“good customer service, clean place and very nice food along with a good price. Thanks”
Chinese • $
“So today my family wanted pick up stix and I didn't want to get pickup stix due to the odd interaction I had last time I went in. I have been going to this location for years and have never had any issue besides the last visit. There is a cashier that is an older gentleman who refuses to give extra sauce and will literally go back and forth over a couple sauce packets. I am buying for 3 people and the 2 siracha that he said is already in the bag is not enough. I decided oh well it probably will not be a thing today, but unfortunately the same guy today did it again. I asked him what the issue was and he stated that the sauce is in the bag already. I asked do I need to pay for extra sauce and if so I will, he stated no I don't need to then finally agreed to give me sauce. I have never ran into this situation ever at any restraunt where when I am paying for the meal I have to argue and ask several times for a couple extra packets of sauce. It's wild and unprofessional to think you need to argue with a customer over 4 siracha packets.”
Middle Eastern • $$
“This is my first time visiting this family owned and operated family restaurant and it was an amazing experience. We were greeted by Pierre and he was professional, kind, and very informative of all the items on the menu. Everything on the menu looked great and hard to decide what to dive into. The restaurant is very clean open and very bright. I ordered the liver skewers with biryani rice. The skewers very flavorful, tender, and grilled to perfection, paired well with the onion, pickled beets, and pickles. The biryani was delicious. My wife had the beef shawarma sandwich on Arabic bread, which was tender and tasty. The potions are larger than expected which was great! We finished with a cup of hot tea. If you’re looking for some authentic Iraqi food, I highly recommend Al Awael, you will not be disappointed 😋”
Ice Cream Shop • $
“First time going, the food is delicious and I had a good time visiting, today I met Salam who was very respectful. I will definitely be coming back to try more of their awesome items, particularly their blue raspberry mojito.”
Cafe • $
“Loved Saturday, and Sunday breakfast at Gillespie Field. A great staff of folks, and a must visit if your only on vacation.”
Custom Cakes • $$$$
“Sierra does beautiful work. Very talented. I highly recommend Sierra for all your baked goods. You won’t be disappointed.🎂👍”
Mexican • $$
“Holy moly this place is incredible. The Desayuno de Molcajete is off the charts amazing. The corn tortillas are so incredible and made in-house. And if you are lucky enough to get Fernando as the best server that has ever existed, then you are gonna have your best brunch ever❤️”
Middle Eastern • $$
“Всем рекомендую посетить этот ресторан и поесть суп "Pacha" из баранины.”
Outdoor Dining
Brazilian • $$$
“Really good food. Extremely attentive staff. Thank you for a wonderful 40th Anniversary dinner!”
Sandwich Shop • $
“Stopped in for a late lunch and witnessed the GM, Philip, handle an erratic and aggressive customer with calm and utmost professionalism. He apologized to us for the incident, although clearly he was not responsible for that person's rude behavior. We had delicious sandwiches and enjoyed the pleasant atmosphere. We WILL be back!”
Italian • $
“Never had a bad experience here. The staff are always super friendly and make you feel welcomed and take good care of us. This is our favorite no-frills, reliably good food, hole in the wall spot. Our son loves the food here too! Highly recommend”
Hamburger • $
“Whoever was on the grill tonight (3/21/2026) you did an amazing job with my double double and the char on the patties. Whoever chopped the peppers however, may both sides of your pillow be very warm. Idk if you chopped them with a vengeance but these peppers are the hottest things I’ve ever had in my mouth. I thankfully was able to take a few bites of this amazing burger before being hit with the peppers and instantly seeing the fires of hell. These peppers have truly ruined my night and my tongue/lips. But I’ll be back regardless cause this burger was delicious before satans peppers entered my mouth.”
Asian Fusion • $
“I have eaten Vietnamese cuisine throughout California, and Grandpa Tao ranks among the best. In addition to the amazing tastes, the casual restaurant is friendly and comfortable. Ingredients are fresh, the environment clean and relaxing. I particularly recommend the Pho, the Rice Vermicelli (try it!) and the Shaking beef. You'll like it.”
Breakfast • $
“Just had a wonderful veggie scramble with wheat toast and a large side of mixed fruit. It was delicious! Very friendly service and comfortable atmosphere. You need to check this place out.”
Mexican • $
“The best family made tacos in all of San Diego County. No exaggeration. The meats are so flavorful, the tacos come with a generous amount of guacamole, cilantro, onion, etc. Try them all, carne asada without all the fat like other famous SD taco stands throw at you, pastor, cabeza, carnitas, etc., worth the trip to El Cajon!”
Barbecue • $$
“This place gets pretty busy on weekends! The parking lot may be full but you can still park along the street. It’s pretty large so there’s usually seats. I love the borracho fries, so good! Also the pulled pork and the cheeseburger are tasty too. The service is good as well. My one complaint is they run out of their popular items by 2pm, tri tip and hot links get sold out really fast. I know they can only bbq so much but maybe add some more of the popular meats?”
Salad • $
“I love this place. I love many items on their menu. Here are few: Ribeye Tikka is amazing. Their Hummus and Falafel is so good, falafel is crispy. Their shawarma wraps and plates are so satisfying. Their house made chips reminds me of Baghdad Iraq. Fattoush salad is so good. And most importantly great service and people 🫶😊❤️”
Deli • $
“We've been ordering sandwiches from this deli for a few yrs now... they're reasonably priced & soooo good!! ♡ u guys! Thank u Danny for always makin sure our take out orders are correct & ready to go when we get there 😁 *Support Small/Family Owned Businesses!* Thank u from all of us at All 4 Pets - Santee #all4petssantee”
Mediterranean • $$
“I'm no expert on middle eastern food but the food here is clearly authentic and made with a lot of love. Some of the best rice I've ever had, the bread was delicious and kebab perfect to round it all out. I highly recommend.”
Italian • $$
“This restaurant never disappoints! Consistently amazing food, and service! Come for the happy hour they have a great deal on appetizers ! Wine Monday and Tuesday you get a half off bottle!:)”
Chinese • $$
“We have eaten here multiple times and have never been disappointed. This time around we ordered 81. General Tao's Chicken, 37. Assorted Wonton Soup, and the 21. Egg Roll (4). My wife was feeling under the weather and the soup brightened her mood. She said it was exactly what she needed. The egg rolls were crisp and fresh. General Tao's Chicken was absolutely delicious. There are chilies in the dish. So, be aware if you are spice averse.
I highly recommend eating in person as well. It's a very nice restaurant and a great place to go for a midweek meal as well as special occasions.
Looking forward to trying other dishes on their extensive menu!”
Online Reservation Available
Pizza • $
“Pasta and pizzas are delicious. Prices are very reasonable.”
Thai • $
“I have been craving good Thai for a few years. I have tried some not good and some okay other places. Thai Time is so good. The aromas of the spices tortured my already empty stomach with the enticement of good food to come. I have fallen in love with the food and customer service. I will be back as my budget allows.”
Mexican • $
“I have been coming to this location for over a year now and I just had to take the time to write how AMAZING the food and service is at this location. I am always greeted when I come in and the food is consistentantly made with the same amazing taste, portions, hot, and fast service. If your looking for some good Mexican food to eat, this place is a must.”
Irish Pub • $$
“Great place with great food and great service, will definitely come back!”
Italian • $$
“This restaurant never disappoints! Consistently amazing food, and service! Come for the happy hour they have a great deal on appetizers ! Wine Monday and Tuesday you get a half off bottle!:)”
Italian • $$
“Excellent service, friendly atmosphere..food very satisfying”
Salvadoran • $
“AMAZING FOOD!!! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!! SO DELICIOUS!!!!”
Mexican • $
“This place is so delicious. I’ve been coming here for like 20 years. It still taste all the same if not better. 5 rolled tacos with guacamole and a carne asada burrito no sour cream… lots of salsa cucumbers carrots omg such a great flavor. Unfortunately I moved to Los Angeles with my pops. Pops is the best the unfortunately is there isn’t a La posta arrrr. My mother lives in San Diego so that’s the first stop issssssss LA POSTA. A++++++++++++ Hands down……”
Mexican • $
“I was going to this place when I was living in El cajon in San Diego for 25yrs. Moved to Oxnard, and everytime me and the kids go to San Diego we eat there, its a must.”
Italian • $
“Testo Pepesto Italian Restaurant is centrally located on Main Street in downtown El Cajon. It is a great family-owned restaurant with delicious food and friendly service. Best pizza and pasta in El Cajon! They also bake their own tasty bread. Everything is absolutely YUMMY!!!”
Sushi • $$
“Perfect place to go. Good service and comfortable setting. The food is delish. My go to is always the Showtime roll. This time I also had the pork ramen miso. So delish.”
Italian • $$
“Excellent service, friendly atmosphere..food very satisfying”
American • $$
“Melissa and Cynthia were absolutely amazing! I could not have asked for greater service. They each checked on my table every 5 minutes. My glass was never empty. And let me not forget about the energy in the restaurant, family all around. You will not be disappointed stopping.”
24 Hour Restaurants
Mexican • $
“Friendly and food was more then plentiful. Price was as expected. Order was prepared in a very timely manner. Ordered the Cali Breakfast Burrito, very delicous- to say the least”
American • $
“Looking for quick and easy food at your favorite casino?
Located on the second floor you can grab your favorite fast food before heading into bingo or the slots. Open 24/7 , you’ll find something good to eat.
My favorites are the chicken wings and grilled cheese sandwich.”
Mexican • $
“Really good flavor!! We got pollo asado burritos and added rice, beans, sour cream and pico. Lots of flavor. Only complaint I have is the fact that the burritos literally only come with the meat and cheese. I don’t understand that. So after I added all the normal burrito ingredients the price was SO high. Paid $37 for 2 burritos and a cheese quesadilla”
Tacos • $
“Best bacon, eggs, cheese burrito with sour cream and a hot sauce is great!! Real bacon and it’s throughout the entire burrito on the first bite all the way to the last bite plenty of eggs plenty of cheese plenty of sour cream just the way I love it. Hot sauce is perfect. The red hot sauce best guaranteed biggest burrito in town price is normal just like any other place. I give them five stars.”
Fast Food • $
“I am a customer service manager, and I just have to say that the live mas cafe server that works evenings is the nicest person ever. I have seen her there tonight and on a couple other occasions. She needs a raise and a promotion ASAP. Seriously.”
American • $$
“I have eaten here twice today. Lovely staff - very attentive. My dinner tonight was PHENOMENAL! I had the pasta with prawns. I'm pretty picky about what food I feel is truly satisfying flavor-wise, and that dish was SPOT ON. It has capers, which I'm not a fan of, but there are very few of them, and perhaps I'm warming up to them as long as they don't overpower the dish.
It was the perfect sized portion, by the way.”
Bar & Grill • $$
“We spent the night at the Courtyard hotel and, while parking the car, noticed a sign on the side of a nearby building that said something about a bar and grill. We decided to walk over and check it out, although we weren’t wanting bar food very bad. The complete menu didn’t reflect a lot of bar food and we ordered Mahi Mahi. It was wonderful. The waiter was personable and informative about El Cajon. Should we ever pass through El Cajon again, we’d definitely go back.”
Sushi • $$
“Perfect place to go. Good service and comfortable setting. The food is delish. My go to is always the Showtime roll. This time I also had the pork ramen miso. So delish.”
Takeout Restaurants
Cafe • $
“We’ve been going to Antique Row Cafe for 20+years. The food is great with ample portions. The service is excellent.”
Mediterranean • $
“Best chicken shawarma wrap I’ve ever had in my life, and the nicest people serving too! Definitely should try this food truck if you are downtown!”
Mexican • $
“The staff was very helpful and visiting from a town with great Mexican food close to the border, this food and service was exceptional, so thank you for this meal and experience.”
Deli • $
“Amazingly consistent…Every bite feels like the result of years of perfecting balance and flavor. You can taste the care and craft that goes into every sandwich — from the fresh ingredients to the thoughtful layering. Whatever you order, it’s always just right. Truly a masterpiece in sandwich form.”
Barbecue • $
“Yumm. No cayenne heat in the sauce which I appreciate, just flavorful spices. Idk if there is cayenne or not it’s just not hot. Liked potato salad and loved the beans n fries.”
Pizza • $
“We eat the pizza and salad at least once a week. The prices are reasonable and the food is great. But let's talk about the staff. Sharpel (not sure I spelled it correctly) this guy remembers every order we've placed. He has such an bright smile. Gunna miss this place when we move back to Arizona. Great job pizza people 🤗”
Vietnamese • $
“Not familiar with restaurants in this area we decided to give this place a try. It was a great lunch. We ordered the house vermicelli and the meatballs pho.
The meat of the vermicelli was tasty, and the veggies were fresh.
The pho had a good flavor.
The mango slushy was delicious.
We are planning on coming back, this time to try their stew that looks great.”
Cafe • $
“Great customer service and delicious tea!! Love the custom drinks and adding coconut to anything is fantastic. Erica is a great barista and I"ll definitely be back and bring my friends! So friendly, knowledgeable, and professional.”
Pizza • $
“Been going there over 30 years.. Forget those chain pizza places, seriously, this place always feels like home when I go. That guy has heart, and his dough and sauce are on point! Keep it up Sam! Much Love.. I can't believe no one else has posted here till now.”
Mexican • $
“I’ve only tried the burritos and tacos from here and it’s the best Mexican burrito and tacos I’ve tried. I struggle with Mexican food shops because the quality of the meat (carne asada) is gross most times but not here food is consistent, fresh, and quality ingredients and I appreciate when food business places use fresh quality ingredient.”
Breakfast • $
“Great staff, Great food, this place with new adminstration is adding hard liquor and dining experience so it won't be just your neighborhood breakfast stop as the owner told me today!”
Italian • $$
“Had dinner tonight on the patio with some old friends. I remember eating at the original Pernicano's on 5th st in Hillcrest in the 70s & 80s, when Chargers minority owner George P. owned it. The pizza was as delicious as I remember it from my youth and the service by Hillary was top notch!”
Middle Eastern • $$
“Fun atmosphere - great live music. Love their ceviche and Eli makes a great Moscow mule 😉”
Drive-Thru Restaurants
Thai • $
“Always excellent food and service. Great pad Thai and Great Yellow Curry. A favorite.”
Bar • $
“First time going here! I was skeptical at first because it’s a bit smaller than i’d like, but it turns out its a lot of fun and not as intimidating as the bigger places and $7 for 1 good sized beer, that’s a good deal! I will be returning soon, so much fun and they play plenty of todays hits and songs I know how to dance to, also no cover charge on Wednesdays!!”
Pizza • $
“Shout out to the dudes at NY Giant Pizza! This is the best pizza in town. I've been coming to this joint for some time now and I can honestly say, it NEVER disappoints!! The service is always top notch and the food is even better! Any time its been a substitution/request, they've always come through. NY Giant Pizza will have a special place in my heart always!! ❤️”
Mexican • $
“Rolled tacos were crispy not too crunchy with lots of meat. Good guacamole. Breakfast burrito has french fries in it. Surprisingly loved that texture in my egg and cheese burrito. I would recommend this taco shop.”
Ice Cream Shop • $
“Love it there, the lady and son and workers are really nice 👍”
Mexican • $
“I recommend La Cresta especially for Taco Tuesday.”
Mexican • $
“yummy yummy yummy...my niecy recommended thos restaurant and it didn't disappoint. Large portions and friendly service.”
Hawaiian • $
“I got it to go. I ordered a variety of food. It was good and flavorful. I enjoyed it. I’ll be back again cause my friend lives right around the corner. The flavors was nice and mix with seasonings. I enjoyed de Loco moco I like the sauce, but it was different from other sauces. I had. I might order extra rice with it next time all the food had a lot of flavor I will be back. I forgot one of my items I had to go back and get it.”
Barbecue • $
“I always like great ribs and like coming here but unfortunately today's service wasn't very satisfying no side orders drinks no eating inside I can't give a great review until you fix this easues 🤔”
Coffee Shops • $
“Visiting the area & stopped in because it was close to where we were - glad we did. The best frappes we’ve had, no joke! Cozy little coffee shop. Good service.”
Hamburger • $
“Found Funky Burgers and Fries today. I just wanted a Strawberry Shake. It was awesome! Made with quality ingredients and care. The service was excellent. I’ll be back to try their Burgers & Fries👍”
Hamburger • $
“Wonderful food but my wallet feels a bit lighter after going here.
Much better quality than corporate fast food for a few extra George Washingtons.”
Custom Cakes • $$$$
“Sierra does beautiful work. Very talented. I highly recommend Sierra for all your baked goods. You won’t be disappointed.🎂👍”
Steak House • $$$
“The receptionists, waiters & management always take great care of us! It doesn’t matter whether we are with a large group or it’s just my husband & I. Dan the manager is always moving around making sure the patrons are enjoying their dining experience 🥩🥦🥗 Good Food & Great Service always makes for a Fabulous evening out ♥️🍷”
American • $$
“This was a lovely restaurant I came to for my friend's birthday. Every guest seemed to like their dish. I ordered a club sandwich (no bacon, no tomatoes) with a side of fries but I was a bit disappointed when they brought it with bacon and tomatoes. They sent it back and corrected the order, and it ended up being pretty good and very filling. The restaurant has an outdoor terrace that has a beautiful view on the pool area.”
Pizza • $$
“I love doing my kids birthday parties here, been coming here for over 20 years , I also love the half price games on Tuesdays it’s awesome … my daughter loves the frog hopper …and the coaster the most”
Cheap Eats
Mediterranean • $
“Went to parkway plaza today with my kids and got some food from here. Everything was made so fresh and was so tasty. We got a gyro burger, fries, and a drink. It was soooo good. We left happy. We will be coming here again soon. I give them 10/10 on taste and quality of the food!”
Deli • $
“I went to Hilltop Deli today for lunch for a standard (my basic) roast beef sandwich; roast beef, lettuce, tomato, onion, on sourdough. Not only was the sandwich on point, it came with my choice of side (I wasn’t expecting). It was all so good and I have no need for dinner tonight. Well worth the visit. Staff is A+, too.”
Cafe • $
“This place is truly a hidden gem. The sandwiches are tasty and combo is ridiculously affordable. The food is made with love and you can taste it..On top of all that the owner is super sweet. I only wish I had reasons to come out this way more often.”
Japanese • $
“I love it. Great food, and they're not stingy . I've seen a lot of restaurants at Food Court where they always try to gige u little but cost a lot. However, not them totally recommend 👌”
Chinese • $
“' ' ' ' We Love The House Special Fried Rice. Yum Yum Yum 😋🤤🤤🤤. Great Staff Very Great Nice People. ' ' ' '”
Sandwich Shop • $
“This is frequently our pit stop on rides. We love Main Street Donuts & Deli. Great food, great service.”
Chicken Wings • $
“I had a pretty good corn dog from this Korean Fry House at the Parkway Plaza Food Court. I ordered the Premium Beef Corn Dog or the #2 for $5.29 plus tax.
The corn dog was good. The beef dog inside was tasty and the batter on the outside was crispy, although the inside of the batter could have used a little more time in the fryer. You can add a variety of toppings and sauces to the corn dog. I went with just mustard and garlic powder. It was a good flavor combination.
The older gent running the counter was friendly.”
Chicken Wings • $
“Owner knows how to run a business and cook not only amazing buffalo fries with tons of amazing sauces but his food in general is great I recommend this place it's been consistent for years”
Juice • $
“It was very easy to find and parking on the street, right in front. There was parking in the back but we didn’t use it. We found them on google and were able to peruse their menu prior to arriving. We had the large salad that was made by them after filling out a small order form with what you would like. The proteins were extra. I had the large salad and added egg and chicken. The serving was plentiful and the protein addition was hearty (4 ounces my guess). Two large salads (3 proteins total and two soft drink cans—under $40). My husband needed a restroom and they did not have one for public use. That was a drag. He had to go down the street to find one. The place was relatively clean and there were about 5 booths to choose from. The music was a bit annoying. Staff was friendly!”
Coffee Roasteries • $$
“So very yummy. Sad I can’t buy it for my home.”
American • $$
“This place never disappoints whether we're having breakfast happy hour or dinner. Always excellent. This was a valentine celebration and they had an entertainer and it was fabulous once again.”
Mediterranean • $$
“The Pistachio Latte was awsome and the cakes are great. Great new place.”
Pizza • $$
“Hands down the BEST pizza spot in San Diego! The calzone was absolutely insane — crispy, cheesy, loaded with toppings, and cooked to perfection.
From the taste you can tell all the ingredients are made in-house.
Huge shoutout to Marven for the amazing customer service! He was friendly, welcoming, and clearly passionate about making great pizza. You can tell he puts care into every order, and it shows in the flavor. If you’re in the area and craving something next-level, this is the place. Fire pizza, great vibes, and top-tier service. I’ll definitely be back!”
Lounges • $$
“The LAZY River. So many pools/jacuzzis to choose from. Staff always cleaning 🧼!👍🏽”
Seafood • $$
“Honestly this place is amazing they are very friendly and quick. The food is delicious it’s probably one of the Best tasting food overall. I highly recommend this place.”
Italian • $$
“Was a special anniversary dinner and the service was fabulous. The lasagna was delicious so was the sautéed mushrooms. A memorable evening. OMG the portions are very large. Love this restaurant.”
Mediterranean • $$
“The people who own the Golden palace are such amazing and nice people!! The hall is so pretty to have a baptism, Engagement or Henna party �”
Steak House • $$
“Amazing staff especially at the bar they deserve a raise I went to a black angus in Chula Vista horrible experience but today they redeemed the steak house for me”
Afghan • $$
“Dear Sir/Madam,
I am not satisfied with my experience at your restaurant. The manager, Parviz, treated customers in a rude and unprofessional way.
I hope you improve your customer service.”
Bar & Grill • $$$
“I've visited this place more than once in the past 4 years. But my last one was the best after they did a great remodeling job it is really looking nice and the food is great.”
Bar • $$
“I'm not much of a gambler but my dad was a frequent visitor when he was alive. So in his honor on his birthday we had dinner at one of the restaurants. Ordered one of Dad's signature dishes that I miss, meatloaf. Although not like dads it was tasty and good size slice. Everyone enjoyed their dishes as well. Our waitress was very friendly and responsive which made Dads birthday celebration that much nicer. Maybe a new tradition!”
Middle Eastern • $$
“This was an unexpected and pleasant surprise. I usually go to a different restaurant for Middle Eastern food whenever I’m in El Cajon. But it was closed for remodeling, and in search of an alternative, I found this hidden gem. The gentleman who made the food was very welcoming and hospitable. The food was some of the tastiest Middle Eastern food I’ve ever had. Prices are very reasonable, portion size is big, service is great, and the food is delicious. This easily made my list of must go to restaurants whenever I’m in San Diego. I’m usually by the coastline, but I will gladly make the drive to El Cajon to come here. Also great to support local small businesses and Christian business owners. 🙏☦️”
Latest Reviews
Pizza Delivery • $
“To Jimmy and the Domino's Pizza team at El Cajon on Broadway, I wanted to send a quick note of encouragement to express how awesome it is that Jimmy always greets everyone with the same smile and provides uplifting customer service, regardless of age. Your non-judgmental demeanor is truly remarkable. Keep up the fantastic work in creating a welcoming atmosphere for all customers! Alexandra”
Steak House • $$
“my husband and I came here with our good friends to celebrate her birthday (and she’s really old) lol and we had Brandy as our server she was fantastic!.”
Cafe • $
“Loved Saturday, and Sunday breakfast at Gillespie Field. A great staff of folks, and a must visit if your only on vacation.”
Cafe • $
“Great customer service and delicious tea!! Love the custom drinks and adding coconut to anything is fantastic. Erica is a great barista and I"ll definitely be back and bring my friends! So friendly, knowledgeable, and professional.”
Mexican • $
“This place is so delicious. I’ve been coming here for like 20 years. It still taste all the same if not better. 5 rolled tacos with guacamole and a carne asada burrito no sour cream… lots of salsa cucumbers carrots omg such a great flavor. Unfortunately I moved to Los Angeles with my pops. Pops is the best the unfortunately is there isn’t a La posta arrrr. My mother lives in San Diego so that’s the first stop issssssss LA POSTA. A++++++++++++ Hands down……”
Mexican • $
“I'm a big fan of chimmh chungu burritos and they do a fantastic job with the food. Excellent ingredients very good quality and lots of it! Well done!”
Thai • $
“I have been craving good Thai for a few years. I have tried some not good and some okay other places. Thai Time is so good. The aromas of the spices tortured my already empty stomach with the enticement of good food to come. I have fallen in love with the food and customer service. I will be back as my budget allows.”
Butcher • $$$
“I LIKE THE SERVICE AND THE QUALITY OF THE PRODUCTS . THE FRESH MEATS ARE EXCELLANT. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS MARKET”
Barbecue • $
“Yumm. No cayenne heat in the sauce which I appreciate, just flavorful spices. Idk if there is cayenne or not it’s just not hot. Liked potato salad and loved the beans n fries.”
Restaurant • $
“I have eaten Vietnamese cuisine throughout California, and Grandpa Tao ranks among the best. In addition to the amazing tastes, the casual restaurant is friendly and comfortable. Ingredients are fresh, the environment clean and relaxing. I particularly recommend the Pho, the Rice Vermicelli (try it!) and the Shaking beef. You'll like it.”
Most Popular Restaurants
Buffet • $
“The main dishes that are served are usually pretty banging, along with the sides. We will always return.”
Diner • $
“Grand Slam of a place ! Been coming since childhood and never disappointed.”
Hamburger • $
“Whoever was on the grill tonight (3/21/2026) you did an amazing job with my double double and the char on the patties. Whoever chopped the peppers however, may both sides of your pillow be very warm. Idk if you chopped them with a vengeance but these peppers are the hottest things I’ve ever had in my mouth. I thankfully was able to take a few bites of this amazing burger before being hit with the peppers and instantly seeing the fires of hell. These peppers have truly ruined my night and my tongue/lips. But I’ll be back regardless cause this burger was delicious before satans peppers entered my mouth.”
Chicken • $
“Food is always on point and the people very friendly. But I wonder how important cleanliness is, it feels that everytime I go, the tables and floor are a mess. I get that a lot are disgusting and don't know how to clean after themselves, but as a restaurant, they should consider cleaning the dinning area. Hope this doesn't come off in a wrong way, but that's an important part in my opinion.”
Mediterranean • $
“Best chicken shawarma wrap I’ve ever had in my life, and the nicest people serving too! Definitely should try this food truck if you are downtown!”
Ice Cream Shop • $
“First time going, the food is delicious and I had a good time visiting, today I met Salam who was very respectful. I will definitely be coming back to try more of their awesome items, particularly their blue raspberry mojito.”
Mexican • $
“Carne asada fries is one of my favorite. Also the roll tacos have a great taste. Can't go wrong there. Staff super friendly.carne asada kesadilla , was delicious 😋”
Greek • $
“If you’re craving fast, flavorful Mediterranean food in Las Vegas, Greek Chicken Café should be on your radar. You can grab it as a plate, a pita, or piled into a rice bowl—with sides like golden roasted potatoes, fluffy rice, and cool, creamy tzatziki that’ll have you licking the fork. Everything’s made fresh, and most meals won’t break the $15 mark. The star of the menu? Rotisserie chicken that’s marinated in lemon, garlic, and herbs, then slow-roasted until it practically falls apart. And if you’re short on time, their takeout game is strong. Cravings satisfied!”
Fast Food • $
“love raising cane's but today...fries were minimal, chck pcs seriously small and the sprite...is more faucet water than pop....I will still come, cause I love your chckn...hopefully it was just a fluke day and next will.be better”
Hamburger • $
“Found Funky Burgers and Fries today. I just wanted a Strawberry Shake. It was awesome! Made with quality ingredients and care. The service was excellent. I’ll be back to try their Burgers & Fries👍”
New Restaurants
Hamburger • $
“The jalapeno popper burger is delicious. The fries were salted well and it wasn't overly expensive. The only issue that I had was that it was a bit warm inside, but aside from that 10/10.”
Sandwich Shop • $
“Wow .. I’m really impressed with quality of sandwich and customer service is nice too! I will highly recommend this place .. also very clean ..will come back soon !”
Coffee Shops • $
“Such a great place! The owner was supremely nice, and the selection of Turkish coffee was beyond belief. The ambiance of the shop added tremendously to the experience. Just wonderful!”
Bubble Tea
“Best boba in SD! The employees are always super helpful and friendly. The boba is absolutely delicious with tons of options! We love mixing smoothie flavors and the variations of milk tea available!”
Mexican • $
“Excelente experiencia! 🙏🏻 Tengo años sin probar comida verdaderamente autentica mexicana en SD! Todos te hacen sentir en casa desde que llegas y la comida esta riquísima 🙌🏼 Volveremos pronto!! Gracias!!!♥️”
Mediterranean • $
“Ammu central
You come in and order. Friendly and communicative service.
Entire restaurant at 12:20am is uncles playing cards, smoking hookah, eating, and drinking tea. Very casual and comfortable
Ordered fish and rice. Good food”
Mediterranean • $$
“I'm no expert on middle eastern food but the food here is clearly authentic and made with a lot of love. Some of the best rice I've ever had, the bread was delicious and kebab perfect to round it all out. I highly recommend.”
Coffee Shops • $
“A coffee place that offers a lot more than its size would make you think! Great selection, delicious drinks (we got an iced tres leches and hot peanut butter mocha).”
Bakery • $
“Hands down the best sugar free keto bread I’ve ever tried! I got the St. James Spanish Cake for $12 at the Little Italy farmers market. It had the right amount of sweetness from the oranges and the bread was moist and soft making it the perfect combination for my morning coffee. I just got it Saturday and it is now Monday, practically gone. Time to ration for the rest of the week haha
Will be back again for another!”
Bakery • $
“Great authentic afghani food with welcoming service and very good price. I went with my family and everyone enjoyed the evening. Looking forward to visiting again. Thank you Zaytoon staff.”
Mexican
“I had a great experience at Habibi Taqueria! The pollo asado burrito was delicious—perfectly seasoned, tender, and wrapped in a soft, fresh tortilla. The flavors were spot on, and every bite was satisfying. The service was excellent as well; the staff was friendly, attentive, and made sure everything was just right.”
Afghan • $$
“Dear Sir/Madam,
I am not satisfied with my experience at your restaurant. The manager, Parviz, treated customers in a rude and unprofessional way.
I hope you improve your customer service.”
Fast Food • $
“This kind young man who served me changed my outlook on fast food service as a whole he gave me amazing portions made feel welcomed he inspired me to make someone elses day like he made mine he deserves a raise but i never got his name he left an ever lasting mark on my fast food experience”
“Fresh and tasty food in a nice environment.”