20 Best Mexican Restaurants in Santee

“great food! love this place 😀“

“10/10 says husband. The Tocino burrito (called pacman burrito) is Filipino cured pork meat, known for its sweet and savory flavor. The thinly sliced pork is marinated in a mixture of sugar, salt, and seasonings, giving it a distinct reddish color from ingredients like annatto or food coloring. After marinating, it's pan-fried until caramelized and tender. Sweet and savory goodness!“

“Good service good food good price just like the old days Good job“

“Amazing tacos! You have to try the Red Taco!!! It is the best deal I have ever found in California. Two huge tacos and a drink for $14! Wow. If you are ever in Santee you have to try this place.“

“Great food and personal service. I commented that I was sharing the burrito with my bride and was asked if I’d like them to cut it in half for me. 👍“

“God, everything is delicious! I used to work in front of the restaurant so I’ve tried many options on the menu and today I drove from home (UTC La Jolla) just to have the steak and eggs burrito plus I took one carne assada burrito to go. Without mentioning their sauces are the best. I don’t mind driving from home bc the quality is the best in the city - it’s extremely fresh! 5 starts ❤️🙏 thank you for making me so happy! 🤤“

“I’ve been going here since 1987. The Estrada family are amazing. Always the best food.“

“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.“

“I’ve been going here since 1987. The Estrada family are amazing. Always the best food.“

“Took 3 boys here after day at the beach. Surf and turf burrito, cali burrito, carne asada fries and birria taco plate. Everything was excellent , the meat was juicy and the birria consume very rich. The carne asada fries were loaded and crispy. All 3 picky eaters were pleased, as was mom, will definitely add this to my rotation for Mexican.“

“I absolutely love Marieta's in Santee. The food is delicious and the service is amazing. I have been enjoying this place since I was 16 years old and I have always felt like part of their family. Be sure to visit Pedro in the bar!“

“Cazadores Taco Shop in Santee is one of our favorite spots in San Diego. We’ve been coming here for years, and whenever we’re in town, we end up eating here almost every single day. The carne asada is hands down some of the best in San Diego — always fresh, flavorful, and exactly what we’re craving.“

“I’ve been going here since 1987. The Estrada family are amazing. Always the best food.“

“Had funbbbb bb bbvcxswsxvnnvxdryhvcdfhb“

“El mejor pollo del mundo Pollo Loco, siempre rico“

“This has been my go-to spot for years. I won't eat anywhere else for taco shop food in San Diego. I love that it is family owned and the food is incredly fresh, everytime. The ONE thing I missed was birria.

WELL GUESS WHAT!!!?? THEY HAVE IT! I have tried the birria tacos, mini birria tacos,birria quesadilla and the birria nachos. Mini tacos are the best. I loved the nachos too. The amazing gal that works there gave me the sauce she likes on hers and it was amazing. I love you guys. You definitely know that. You hit it out of the park this time! 🙌🏻“

“We tried the Burrito, and I had the Fish Soft Taco, which I loved. However, the beef bowl with avocado, beans, rice, peppers, and tomatoes in this shop, it felt like too much going on flavor-wise. On the bright side, we enjoyed the delicious pineapple juice. The server is nice and I asked to get another Juice and he said pay after when we are done, he told me next time. Thank you for the treat! Overall, it was a good experience at Roberto’s Taco Shop in Santee.“

“Hiberto's is on prospect in santee California. Its a nice restaurant. They have amazing food. I highly recommend them.

I stopped in for lunch while my car was being worked on. I order the carne asada plate and 3 rolled tacos. Came with rice and beans.

5 stars for food staff and clean restaurant. The staff went above and beyond friendly professional and polite. They made sure it was cooked perfect and all was good.
I be back again. Thank you“

“Santana’s Mexican Food was exactly what we needed for a late-night food run. The portions were generous, the food was hot and fresh, and every bite was packed with flavor. The carne asada fries were loaded with tender, well-seasoned meat, crispy fries, and the perfect amount of toppings. The rolled tacos were crunchy on the outside, filled just right, and paired perfectly with the guacamole. Everything we ordered was delicious and satisfying. If you’re looking for quality Mexican food late at night that never disappoints, Santana’s is the spot. Highly recommend!“