24 Best Mexican Restaurants in Encinitas

Discover Encinitas' top Mexican restaurants through Restaurantji's lens.

Haggo's Organic Taco Mexican • $$
1302 N Coast Hwy 101 #101, Encinitas

Customers` Favorites

Cousteau Fish Taco Plate
Chicken Veggie Bowl
Veggie Vessel Bowl
Seabass Taco Plate
Loaded Quesadilla
Carne Asada Taco
Steak Quesadilla
Rice and Beans
Chicken Nachos
Chicken Tacos

“Wow! This place is fantastic! The atmosphere is the perfect combination of beach casual, family friendly and still conveys that you are in for a treat. Fast and very friendly service made us feel right at home. Great drink selection both nonalcoholic and alcoholic. Now onto the tacos, I can't wait to go back! The grass-fed beef taco is heavenly perfection. Tender beef and so flavorful with the caramelized onions and cream making a magical sauce. The Cousteau fish taco was so fresh with the mango and cilantro adding to the simple and yet delicious taco. We saw a couple other menu items come out of the kitchen when we were there and I can't wait to try them all! Allergy and dietary concerns friendly for all. Parking lot in the back. Enjoy!“

4.7 Superb119 Reviews
The Taco Stand Mexican • $
642 S Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas

Customers` Favorites

Carne Asada Taco Baja Fish Taco Carnitas Taco
Mexican Corn on the Cob
Carne Asada Burrito
Tacos and Burritos
Carne Asada Fries
Al Pastor Burrito
Shrimp Burrito
Al Pastor Taco
Mar Y Tierra
Street Tacos

“Spent 4 days in San Diego and ate at this place twice! I finally got authentic tacos! I had the al pastor taco, carne asada taco, the Mexican corn on the cob, and the California burrito. So good! Oh and I had the best churros I've ever eaten. I will be back!“

4.5 Superb195 Reviews
Pavlos Tacos Tacos • $
165 S El Camino Real Suite L, Encinitas

Customers` Favorites

Chili Relleno and Cheese Enchilada Combo with Rice and Beans
California Burrito
Toppings and Sauce
Justin's Burrito
Chile Relleno
Rolled Tacos
Carne Asada
2 Fish Tacos
Vegetarian
Breakfast

“Been coming here since high school (15+ years now). Even though the name got an update, the food is just as good as always. I’ve been getting the Justin burrito every time and it never disappoints. Plus, the people there are awesome (especially Pavlos himself ??)“

4.8 Superb68 Reviews
Agave Birrieria Mexican •
865 Orpheus Ave, Encinitas

Customers` Favorites

Birria Taco Special with a Drink
1 2 Carne Asada Fries
Shrimp Quesadilla
Tacos De Carnitas
Caldo De Birria
Beef Hard Shell
Birria Burrito
Agave Burrito
Quesa Birria
Chilaquiles

“Gabriella and Lorina are the absolute best. We were visiting from out of town and where we live. We cannot find birrieria tacos with Consume. When I called they were very friendly. So full of information and when I got there. They were so extremely kind. I was over the top excited and that did not faze them lol We also got beans and rice with them. And I'm not kidding. I'm a talker and I did not say a word while eating. I made tons of noisesthough lol If your reading this review I would travel out of state to come here. Great food, great presentation and actually a large amount. I was extremely pleased. And I am going back and again. I don't live in that town or city at all. I have to travel almost 3 hours to get there and I'm going to do that.“

4.5 Superb87 Reviews
Échale Mexican •
947 South Coast Hwy 101 Suite 103D, Encinitas

Customers` Favorites

Local Cacao Ancho Olive Oil Cake
Strawberry Shortcake Churros
Cochinita Pibil Tamal
Red Snapper Tacos
Pork Belly Tacos
Hamachi Crudo
Chicken Tinga
Oxtail Tacos
Carpaccio
Tamale

“All around fabulous experience!I was staying in Encinitas on business and ate here both nights I was in town. I seldom double down on a restaurant like that when I'm traveling but it was too good that first night. The second night reaffirmed my choice.Both nights were slower than I would have expected but that didn't hamper the vibe a bit.I had the Bolognese the first night, and while a tad spicier than I would have liked (I'm a wimp when it comes to spice, so I know that's purely a personal preference) it was absolutely delicious. I had a skin-contact (orange) wine the first night, which I had no experience with prior, but the bartender (who turned out was the owner) was more than excited to talk me through it. The second night I had a chilled red and the Steak Au Poivre. I could eat that steak every night. It was basically perfect... I hope I can find an excuse to get back to Encinitas, so I can enjoy Echale again!“

4.4 Superb54 Reviews
Raul's Shack Mexican Food Mexican • $
490 S Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas

Customers` Favorites

Veggie Burrito with Rice Beans Salsa Fresca
California Burrito
Breakfast Burrito
Beef Tacquitos
Fish Taco
Carnitas
Taquitos

“Nice hole in the wall Mexican food. Better prices than most as well.Edit: Boy have things changed since my last review 5 years ago:My fiancé and I recently ordered takeout from here, and unfortunately, the experience fell short of expectations. I ordered the flautas and she ordered the chimichanga, both dishes we'd enjoyed on previous visits, but this time, they were soggy and lacked their usual crispness. My fiancé was particularly disappointed with her chimichanga, which was inedible due to the sogginess. Normally we would let this sort of thing slide if it was just one of us with bad food, but both of us had bad food.I called them to express our disappointment and inquire about a possible refund. However, the person who answered the phone, who also happened to take our order, was dismissive and accusatory. He claimed I was trying to get free food, which was unprofessional and upsetting. He basically said he thought I might call back and get free food, all because I made an offhand comment about the price when we were placing the order. No, actually I was not calling because of the price. I agreed to pay for it at the time, and that was my choice to live with. I thought maybe he would be receptive to take my complaint so that they could maybe not make the same mistake in the future. Unfortunately all I got were accusations. He did eventually refund my money, but after leaving a really bad taste of my mouth.Given the quality of the food and the unpleasant interaction, we're hesitant to return in the future. While we've had positive experiences in the past, this recent incident left a real negative impression.“

4.2 Good200 Reviews
El Pueblo Mexican Food - Cardiff Mexican • $
820 Birmingham Dr, Encinitas

Customers` Favorites

Super Breakfast Burrito
Chile Relleno Burrito
California Burrito
Carne Asada Burrito
1 19 Fish Tacos
Two Fish Tacos
2 Enchiladas
French Fries
Rolled Tacos
Chimichanga

“The best fish tacos! Double wrapped soft tortillas so they don't sock through like so many other tacos! Fresh lime wedge and tasty sauce with cabbage. Big portions too, not some dinky little taco. Fresh salsas too. Price is the best anywhere! Cheaper than Mexico!“

4.2 Good158 Reviews
Cancun Mexican and Seafood Mexican • $
1766 N Coast Hwy 101 B, Encinitas

Customers` Favorites

Breakfast Burrito
3 Taquitos
Salsa

“Ordered the breakfast burrito and the california burrito. Large, fresh, flavorful. Great authentic tortillas and fresh salsa. Restaurant was clean and the staff were helpful in pointing out the specialties. They seemed to take pride in their food and their establishment. Will definitely go back.“

4.2 Good121 Reviews
Roberto's Mexican Food - Leucadia Mexican • $
1900 N Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas

Customers` Favorites

Three Taquitos Mexicanos
Shredded Beef Tostada
Carne Asada Burrito
Bean Cheese Burrito
Carne Asada Plate
Hashbrown Burrito
California Burrito
Breakfast Burrito
Chicken Tostada
Shrimp Burrito

“Part of the Roberto's empire. Been going to several of them for years, and all were and are still banging. Their new-ish app is great, it lets you enter any custom requests, as well as several preset options. Oh, and the Chile Verde burrito is BACK!Vegetarian options: In person, you can customize your order as needed. With the app you can as well. My wife has multiple food allergies, so when we order online she gets a large tortilla, whole pinto beans/no cheese, and rice. She then adds some other stuff from our fridge and has a semi-custom/self-made burrito! The rest of us aren't strict vegetarians, but customizing orders happens frequently.Dietary restrictions: See above about dietary restrictions. They're pretty flexible.Parking: They have a few spots right in front, but if people are choosing to eat there, then it can get crowded. You can park a ways down PCH and walk down; helps build your appetite. That all said, it's rare when I can't find a spot.“

4.2 Good78 Reviews
Cocina de Barrio - Encinitas Mexican • $
967 S Coast Hwy 101 #101, Encinitas

Customers` Favorites

Chilaquiles Verdes
Tacos De Trompo
Guacamole

“The cuisine offered at this particular restaurant possesses an extraordinary essence. Despite having indulged in numerous Mexican delicacies throughout various regions of Mexico, I must emphasize that the Mexican cuisine served here is exceptionally distinctive. Furthermore, the service provided was commendable, and the beverages served were impeccably prepared.“

4.2 Good68 Reviews
El Nopalito Restaurant Mexican • $
582 Santa Fe Dr, Encinitas

Customers` Favorites

Chilaquiles Rojos
Chicken Tamales
Super Nachos
Chips

“Very good place, only the shipping one is very special, he is a man, of course, he does not answer quickly, he talks a lot on the phone and is very angry about everything, he is annoying before, he was a great service in shipping to ladies and the ladies are very kind, that man is not I'm sorry, I'm sorry, but I had to say the store was all very well.“

4.2 Good35 Reviews
Le Papagayo Mexican • $$
1002 N Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas

Customers` Favorites

Artisan Bread Basket
Papagayo Flatbread
Lobster Bisque
Lamb Chops
Fish Tacos
Crab Cake
Loco Moco
Mexican
Steak
Fries

“Fantastic! Great place for an evening out with a group. Lots of seating indoors and outside with live music throughout. Really appreciate that the servers allowed us to hang out and didn't rush us out of the restaurant. Super tasty food and drinks. Will definitely return!“

4 Good340 Reviews
Juanitas Taco Shop. Tacos • $
290 N Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas

Customers` Favorites

Bean and Cheese Burrito
Carne Asada Burrito
California
Quesadilla
Fish Tacos

“This is my favorite Taco Shop. Don’t come here for the service or atmosphere. But if you want the best carne asada burrito, this IS the place. Large, tasty and filled with carne asada. It’s my go to and have not eaten anything else here.Parking: Lot in back holds about 7 cars.“

4 Good292 Reviews
Serranos Mexican food [ENCINITAS] Mexican • $
110 Encinitas Blvd, Encinitas

Customers` Favorites

Al Pastor Tacos with Chips and Salsa
Moonlight Crunch Burrito
Carne Asada Nachos
Beef Burrito
Fish Burrito
Shrimp Taco
Fish Tacos
Fries

“Wow...simply wow. 1st time here and tried the Moonlight crunch burrito. That thing is HUGE. Easily 3 meals. Also, I had to try the surf & turf fries. Be sure you have a friend to share with. Again, HUGE. The wife had one fish & one shrimp taco. Highly recommend this place. We will return.“

4 Good72 Reviews
Roberto's Mexican Food - Encinitas Mexican • $
274 N El Camino Real, Encinitas

Customers` Favorites

Carne Asada Burrito
California Burrito
Asada Fries

“Went to grab a burrito today and was serviced by a very nice and friendly lady named Rocio who worked there. She did such a wonderful job. You could tell she really likes working there and to interact with customers. She had a smile for everyone that came in. It was a great start into my day! Thank you, Rocio! :) PS: The burrito was great as well! Hit the spot!“

4 Good56 Reviews
Jorge's Mexicatessen Mexican • $
267 N El Camino Real, Encinitas

Customers` Favorites

Chile Verde Burrito
California Burrito
Breakfast Burrito
Chips and Cheese
Soup of the Day
Two Enchiladas
Crispy Tacos
Chicken Soup
Carne Asada
Fish Tacos

“Just moved to Encinitas been all around town looking for a taco place could not find one that satisfied me went to jorge’s and I’m telling you it was the best Carne Asada pork and chicken tacos that I’ve had. I’ll be back in a couple days to try the rice and “

4 Good53 Reviews
Jorge's Mexicatessen Mexican • $
417 Santa Fe Dr B, Encinitas

Customers` Favorites

Carne Asada Burrito

“only gave atmosphere 3 stars because it was only my first time buying there and it was a take out. I'll have to try and dine in there one of these days and only then I can probably give 5 stars? I love their salsa though! Service was good the cashier was nice and welcoming. also since it was my first time, there was no seat available to sit to wait for the order wince it was packed so I didn't know where to stand or wait? I was just everywhere but then again, first time.. I'll get used to it?“

3.9 Good42 Reviews
La Especial Norte Mexican • $$
664 N Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas

Customers` Favorites

Two Carne Asada or Carnitas Tacos
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Carne Asada Burrito
Mexican Parrillada
Salsa and Chips
Chips and Salsa
Carnitas Plate
Chile Relleno
Refried Beans
Chimichanga

“Iconic. Almost always excellent. I love the tradition of having eaten here for many years. I liked it more pre-pandemic when they offered weekday lunch specials. Prices have gone up, as they have everywhere. Still, reasonable prices compared to other restaurants. I appreciate the eclectic Mexican decor. Decent service.“

3.9 Good86 Reviews
Las Olas Mexican • $$
2655 S Coast Hwy 101, Cardiff

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Tortilla Soup
Carne Asada Burrito
Aztec Taco Platter
Tacos & Quesadilla
Fish Taco Platter
Carnitas Burrito
Carnitas Tacos
Chile Relleno
Chicken Tacos
Cabbage Salad

“order one thing and one thing only: the shrimp enchilada. absolutely no alternations cause we're grown adults and you can't risk messing up perfection. this elite enchilada haunts me and is second to none. sublime ratio of all ingredients -- one is enough to get you rowdy. byo salsa cup because the thimble sized plastic cups for sauce transport simply do not cut it. bummed about the outdoor seating -- however, not enough to keep me away from the enchilada.“

3.9 Good118 Reviews
Wahoo's Fish Taco Mexican • $
1006 N El Camino Real STE C, Encinitas

Customers` Favorites

White Rice and Coleslaw
Protein Bowl
Citrus Slaw
Black Beans
Fish Tacos
Wahoo
Salsa

“T'was my first time ever at a Wahoo's Fish Taco restaurant. A bit more expensive than I expected but the food was excellent and abundant. The young man at the counter, Jeremy, was a really great kid and the manager and owner should both be very happy to have him there.He knew the menu inside and out without even looking at it and made several recommendations that turned out to be spot-on.He was also quite responsible - even when on his break he took the initiative to hop out of his seat and cover the ordering counter when there wasn't anyone there.“

3.9 Good178 Reviews
Mexico Viejo Restaurant Mexican • $
1465 Encinitas Blvd E, Encinitas

Customers` Favorites

Carnitas

“A group of 6 of us went there for ther first time. Ordered menudo, machaca, carnitas, breakfast burrito, among other items. All was fresh, tasty and generously portioned. The salsa bar had a great selection of mild to spicy salsas, condiments as well and pickled carrots and onions.Not a fancy restaurant, but clean and comfortable.Most of us had leftovers to take home!“

3.6 Good30 Reviews
Kotija Jr. Taco Shop Tacos • $
852 N Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas

Customers` Favorites

Chorizo Breakfast Burrito
Carne Asada Plate
Carne Asada Fries

“The food is delicious. Extremely reasonable considering prices everywhere else. Our meals were hot, arrived quickly, were almost overly generous, well spiced, with extra sauces on the side. We enjoyed 4 different meals over 2 days. Had to go back because the first time was so good. One day lunch the next breakfast. The second time did not disappoint. We stuffed ourselves and still had leftovers. There is parking, rare in beach cities, inside and outside seating.“

3.7 Good62 Reviews
Cotixan Mexican Food Mexican • $
219 N El Camino Real, Encinitas

Customers` Favorites

Super Breakfast Burrito
Bean and Cheese Burrito
Carne Asada Burrito
California Burrito
Carne Asada Plate
Fish Burrito
Carnitas
Salsa
Fries

“This is a lovely little take away with good inside seating. The people working the restaurant are friendly and smile a lot. The chef is excellent, the food is delicious.Had the Birria tacos, huge serving of birria inside. The Cotixan Fries, absolutely delicious heaped full of meat, spices, pico de gallo, guac and sour cream on a bed of fries. Huge portion. Next time had the birria taco again with the carnitas quesadilla. Again huge portion, absolutely spot on. Highly recommend this place.“

3.7 Good74 Reviews

24
Piña

Piña Mexican • $$
345 S Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas

Customers` Favorites

Chips Salsa & Guacamole
California Burrito
Chips and Salsa
Street Taco
Carne Asada
Al Pastor

“Hands down the best California burrito I have ever had. The meat is so tender and flavorful. You can tell it's super high-quality. The tater tots are a fun substitute for french fries and I actually like them better. My biggest complaint is the size of the burrito... I wish I had more!!! It is delicious. It's on the pricey side at $17 and with tax it's almost $20 for a burrito which seems/is outrageous but it is literally the best Cali burrito I've ever had.The salsa work, but the burrito is heavenly. Do yourself a favor and try one. It's definitely a special treat.“

3.7 Good100 Reviews
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