Having spent 20 years exploring the vibrant culinary scene in San Diego and visiting over 200 restaurants, I can confidently say that Emma’s Mexican Restaurant stands out as one of the best, hands down.
From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with the warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like a genuine slice of Mexico. The décor is charmingly authentic, and the staff exude a friendliness that makes you feel right at home.
But it’s the food that truly sets Emma’s apart. Every dish is a celebration of traditional Mexican flavors, prepared with the freshest ingredients and a meticulous attention to detail. Whether it’s the perfectly seasoned carne asada, the rich and flavorful mole, or the mouth-watering enchiladas, each bite transports you straight to the heart of Mexico.
What truly impresses me is the consistency and quality of their offerings. Emma’s doesn’t just serve food; they craft an experience. The tortillas are handmade, the salsas burst with freshness, and the portions are generous without compromising on quality.
If you’re a San Diego native or just passing through, Emma’s Mexican Restaurant is a must-visit. It’s a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Mexico and a shining gem in San Diego’s dining landscape. Emma’s has earned its place as a top-tier restaurant, and I can’t recommend it highly enough.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Karen Rogers
Emma’s Mexican Food is an absolute gem! Their rolled tacos are hands down the best I’ve ever had – crispy, flavorful, and generously filled. The authenticity and quality of the food truly shine through every bite. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it a perfect spot for a casual meal. The staff are friendly and provide excellent service, enhancing the overall dining experience. I highly recommend Emma’s if you’re looking for delicious Mexican cuisine!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Kristina Levi
Best and most affordable mexican food in Santee. Friendly staff. Comfortable and clean shop.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
rising mom boss
This place was amazing and the service was amazing you got authentic cooking here. This place isn’t fancy at all but the food is awesome so are the people who own it
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Billy Harris
Best Carna Asada Supreme burrito I've had in years!!
I got 2 tostadas and it was amazing along with the family order. Shells were so crunchy and never got soggy. My daughter told me about this place and the family that runs it. Great food great service. Definitely will be back for more.
An ordinary, simple Mexican quick meal place to stay and eat, or to go.
Conveniently located right across the street on Buena Vista, from Sharp Rees-Stealy clinic and Urgent care. Off of the 52 Freeway, Cuyamaca exit. No drive-through.
Just ask for or take your plastic ware before you sit. Plates are disposable plastic. Canned or bottled drinks are in the refrigerator for purchase.
The chorizo with eggs, either the plate or burrito, is good. As is the adobada plate.
Husband and wife ran business. The beans are amazing ( I'm Mexican and picky about my beans). Service and food is great. If I'm in the area I'll definitely come back.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
John Jackson
The food is still great but the salsa bar is gone and now they give you a set amount with your food. The portions are large and the prices relatively low. The downside is it is just one husband and wife pair doing everything so you do have to wait your turn.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 4
Service: 3
tim c
I bought some food here a month or 2 ago and somehow forgot to leave a good review (life throws a lot at ya). At this restaurant, I had the best pollo asada cali burrito in the past 10 years+. I only say it was 10+ years because I honestly can't remember eating a better burrito. I had to tell the cook and leave a tip.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Chicken Burrito
Aaron Freeman
Such good food, that they can close early and closed on
Having spent 20 years exploring the vibrant culinary scene in San Diego and visiting over 200 restaurants, I can confidently say that Emma’s Mexican Restaurant stands out as one of the best, hands down.
From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with the warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like a genuine slice of Mexico. The décor is charmingly authentic, and the staff exude a friendliness that makes you feel right at home.
But it’s the food that truly sets Emma’s apart. Every dish is a celebration of traditional Mexican flavors, prepared with the freshest ingredients and a meticulous attention to detail. Whether it’s the perfectly seasoned carne asada, the rich and flavorful mole, or the mouth-watering enchiladas, each bite transports you straight to the heart of Mexico.
What truly impresses me is the consistency and quality of their offerings. Emma’s doesn’t just serve food; they craft an experience. The tortillas are handmade, the salsas burst with freshness, and the portions are generous without compromising on quality.
If you’re a San Diego native or just passing through, Emma’s Mexican Restaurant is a must-visit. It’s a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Mexico and a shining gem in San Diego’s dining landscape. Emma’s has earned its place as a top-tier restaurant, and I can’t recommend it highly enough.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Emma’s Mexican Food is an absolute gem! Their rolled tacos are hands down the best I’ve ever had – crispy, flavorful, and generously filled. The authenticity and quality of the food truly shine through every bite. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it a perfect spot for a casual meal. The staff are friendly and provide excellent service, enhancing the overall dining experience. I highly recommend Emma’s if you’re looking for delicious Mexican cuisine!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Best and most affordable mexican food in Santee. Friendly staff. Comfortable and clean shop.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
This place was amazing and the service was amazing you got authentic cooking here. This place isn’t fancy at all but the food is awesome so are the people who own it
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Best Carna Asada Supreme burrito I've had in years!!
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Bean Tostada, Carne Asada Supreme, Chile Verde, Carnitas, Beef Taco, 3 Rolled Tacos
Excellent service and very delicious food!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I got 2 tostadas and it was amazing along with the family order. Shells were so crunchy and never got soggy. My daughter told me about this place and the family that runs it. Great food great service. Definitely will be back for more.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Bean Tostada, Beef Taco, 3 Rolled Tacos
An ordinary, simple Mexican quick meal place to stay and eat, or to go.
Conveniently located right across the street on Buena Vista, from Sharp Rees-Stealy clinic and Urgent care.
Off of the 52 Freeway, Cuyamaca exit.
No drive-through.
Just ask for or take your plastic ware before you sit.
Plates are disposable plastic.
Canned or bottled drinks are in the refrigerator for purchase.
The chorizo with eggs, either the plate or burrito, is good.
As is the adobada plate.
The owner is very friendly and helpful.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 4
Great tasting food and terrific prices!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Very delicious ?
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
Husband and wife ran business. The beans are amazing ( I'm Mexican and picky about my beans). Service and food is great. If I'm in the area I'll definitely come back.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
The food is still great but the salsa bar is gone and now they give you a set amount with your food. The portions are large and the prices relatively low. The downside is it is just one husband and wife pair doing everything so you do have to wait your turn.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 4
Service: 3
I bought some food here a month or 2 ago and somehow forgot to leave a good review (life throws a lot at ya). At this restaurant, I had the best pollo asada cali burrito in the past 10 years+. I only say it was 10+ years because I honestly can't remember eating a better burrito. I had to tell the cook and leave a tip.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Chicken Burrito
Such good food, that they can close early and closed on
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Carne Asada Supreme
Carne Asada burrito was delicious ?
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
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