While the 2 a.m. taco run might be the extent of your Mexican dining experience, consider some of these top ultra slick and sexy Latin American cuisine restaurants, according to DiscoverSD.com.
Candelas – In Downtown, Candelas is Mexico City-inspired and is big on fresh ingredients that are locally grown. Their pairings are a mix of classy and inventive. A second location in Coronado has recently opened.
El Callejon – In Encinitas, a family-owned restaurant that delivers traditional choices and over 750 brands of tequila. The margaritas are made from fresh squeezed limes, never mixes.
Las Olas – In Cardiff by the Sea, an open-aired restaurant in a sexy setting. Traditional choices are offered as well as hand-tossed margaritas. Las Olas was featured in Conde Nast Traveler and GQ as the sexiest Mexican restaurant.
Jose’s – In La Jolla, casual ambiance and a wide menu of traditional choices. The Carne Asada “Jose,” Chile Verde, Fajitas, and Open Flame Skewers are worth a try. Open late every night.
Frida – In Chula Vista, Frida has a modern gallery-feel with a menu featuring Tacos del Guero, Filete Tentacion, Pescado a la Talla, and Ensalada de Nopalitos – all rare dishes.
Chilango’s – In Hillcrest, authentic Mexico City food in a classy setting. Signature dishes are Chile en Nogado Lizeth – a roasted poblano pepper stuffed with ground sirloin, banana, peaches, raisins, and cherry liqueur topped with a creamy walnut sauce and fresh strawberries.
La Fiesta Restaurant – In Downtown, offering regional dishes by Executive Chef Raul Delgadillo, prepared by word-of-mouth generations. Fresh seafood is offered daily.
Fidel’s Little Mexico – In Solana Beach, the Montanez family has run Fidel’s for 45 years. The restaurant is in the hacienda-style and offers traditional favorites in a festive atmosphere.
El Agave – In Old Town, is known for its mole – a saucy mix of chilies, chocolate, tomato and cinnamon. Voted year after year as the Best Mexican restaurant by local publications.
El Fandango – Also in Old Town, El Fandango has a unique concept. Historically- interpretive, the restaurant features a menu from the era 1846 to 1856, when cattle was introduced to the local Indians. Their seafood is also worth a try.
