Best Contemporary Mexican Restaurants in Harbor Island

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Regions

North San DiegoSan DiegoTijuana

Neighborhoods

CarlsbadCarmel ValleyChula Vista / BonitaCoronadoDel MarDowntown

Top Rated

CharmingGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for outdoor diningHot spot

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

24 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

1. El Agave

4.7

Exceptional(2650)

$$$$

• Contemporary mexican • Old Town

Booked 9 times today

El Agave in Old Town, San Diego, is a beacon of Traditional Mexican cuisine that captures the heart and soul of Mexico with every dish. Established in 1996, this restaurant not only offers "delicious Margie and food" but also boasts the largest tequila museum in the United States, with over 3,000 tequilas on display. Renowned for its impeccable service and "unique and beautiful" decor, El Agave is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Guests rave about its "authentic, no refried beans" dishes and the "best mole in town," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine Mexican culinary experience.

2. Origen

4.7

Exceptional(69)

$$$$

• Contemporary mexican • North Park

Booked 27 times today

Our concept was born from a shared love of the mexican coast and our team’s spirit of adventure. We are outdoor enthusiasts who deeply appreciate nature and have a genuine passion for the culinary arts.ORIGEN is where these elements come together—a place where the flavors of mexican coast and the love for exploration create an immersive dining experience

3. Carne & Hueso

4.8

Exceptional(76)

$$$$

• Contemporary mexican • North Park

Booked 11 times today

An intimate, design-driven restaurant and bar celebrating, the artistry and soul of modern Mexican cuisine. We welcome large parties. For groups of 9 or more, please call the restaurant directly to arrange your reservation. contact@carneandhueso.com

A photo of Cocina de Barrio North Park restaurant

4. Cocina de Barrio North Park

4.9

Exceptional(40)

$$$$

• Contemporary mexican • North Park

Booked 4 times today

*Brunch hours are on a walk-in basis only.Cocina de Barrio by Chef Jose J. FloresWelcome to Cocina de Barrio, the newest modern-urban Mexican restaurant located in North Park! We are proud to feature the culinary richness of Oaxaca as well as other Mexican regions. Stop by and enjoy our bar stocked with plenty of tequila and mezcal selections, beer, and wines sourced from Valle Guadalupe.Don't forget to join us during our daily brunch (where we add a Mexican kick) and our happy hour every Monday-Friday from 3-5pm! Stay Chido!

5. Tahona Bar

4.9

Exceptional(721)

$$$$

• Contemporary mexican • Old Town

Booked 15 times today

Tahona Bar in Old Town, San Diego is a gem for lovers of authentic Latin American cuisine, specializing in "contemporary Mexican delights with a focus on Oaxacan bites." This first-of-its-kind mezcal bar in the area promises an unforgettable dining experience, with craft cocktails and a mezcal tasting room that evoke the rich traditions of Mexico. The vibrant atmosphere, enhanced by "hand-clayed walls and traditionally crafted Oaxacan fabrics," creates a truly immersive experience. Glowing reviews commend the "innovative tacos" and "excellent fresh Mexican food," ensuring that each visit is "not your typical Mexican food" but a delightful journey to the heart of Latin America.

A photo of Miguel's Cocina - Old Town restaurant

6. Miguel's Cocina - Old Town

4.4

Awesome(91)

$$$$

• Contemporary mexican • Old Town

Booked 10 times today

Miguel's Cocina - Old Town offers an impressive showcase of Contemporary Mexican cuisine, blending Cali-inspired flavors with authentic Mexican roots. Located in the heart of Old Town, San Diego, this family-friendly restaurant is renowned for its "handmade tortillas and mouthwatering salsas," setting it apart as a must-visit dining destination. Guests rave about the "famous creamy jalapeno white sauce" and the "best guacamole ever," highlighting the restaurant’s commitment to quality and taste. With a lively atmosphere and dishes like Fajitas Supreme and carne asada, Miguel's Cocina promises an unforgettable culinary experience, perfect for both locals and visitors alike.

A photo of Javier's - La Jolla restaurant

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7. Javier's - La Jolla

4.6

Exceptional(4278)

$$$$

• Contemporary mexican • La Jolla

Booked 143 times today

Javier's - La Jolla is a beacon of Contemporary Mexican excellence, captivating diners with its "amazing food" and "beautiful setting." Nestled in the scenic neighborhood of La Jolla, San Diego, this restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience that seamlessly blends authentic flavors with modern flair. Guests rave about the "exceptionally good food" and "best chips and salsa in town," a testament to the quality ingredients and meticulous preparation. The vibrant ambiance, often described as both "classy and hip," perfectly complements the exquisite offerings like the shrimp ceviche and specialty tacos. Whether for a special occasion or a casual outing, Javier's promises a "fantastic meal" every time.

A photo of Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina restaurant

8. Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina

4.1

Excellent(1163)

$$$$

• Contemporary mexican • Old Town

Booked 1 time today

Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina is an exceptional spot for authentic American cuisine, offering a delightful experience in the heart of San Diego’s historic Old Town. Diners rave about the "great service" and "fantastic views," making it an ideal destination for both locals and visitors. The rooftop setting adds a unique charm, perfect for a sunset dinner. The Sunday Champagne brunch is a standout, described as "excellent" with "lots to choose from." Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, the "impeccable service" and delicious food ensure a memorable dining experience.

9. Blind Burro

4.6

Exceptional(684)

$$$$

• Contemporary mexican • Downtown

Booked 10 times today

The Blind Burro specializes in fresh, coastal Baja Mexican cuisine. Our emphasis is on quality, from the customer service, to the ingredients we use in all of our hand crafted food and drinks. We want our guests to enjoy Baja Mexican fare right here in East Village, San Diego. Come in and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere where you can meet over a carafe of spicy margaritas or on tap house sangria. . Or try us for lunch with clients while enjoying steak tacos and a quinoa mixed green salad. Hope to see you soon in the unique, airy and comfortable environment we have created for you in downtown San Diego. **All checks will have a 4% pandemic recovery surcharge due to the additional costs associated with the impact on our business and operations. This is not a gratuity and will be used to help us offset the additional product, labor, overhead and other costs.**

A photo of Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar restaurant

10. Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar

4.5

Awesome(283)

$$$$

• Contemporary mexican • Little Italy

Booked 7 times today

Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar in Little Italy, San Diego, offers an exceptional seafood dining experience that transports your taste buds straight to the vibrant coasts of Baja. Revered for its "excellent fresh fish" and "super fresh oysters," this culinary gem crafts each dish with quality ingredients and meticulous attention to detail. Diners rave about the "creative crudo, ceviche, and aguachile," each plate a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to authenticity and flavor. The unique tostadas are described as "a work of art," adding a visual feast to the already irresistible flavors. Crudo promises a seafood adventure that is "worth several visits."

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

S
Sofia
San Diego •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
We loved it! Staff very attentive, food delicious, it's a must when in Northpark 💕 Looking forward to try the dinner menu!
More info
Carne & Hueso$$$$• Contemporary Mexican• North Park
•
4.8
J
Jae
Portland / Oregon •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on May 6, 2026
First time that either my wife or I have been here and it was amazing! We will be back for sure and will let others know about our new fave spot. Carlos did a great job explaining some menu items and brought out some amazing tequila for our flight, in which we went a bit a bottle of before we left. Thank you!
More info
El Agave$$$$• Mexican• Old Town
•
4.7
M
MeganGold
Phoenix / Arizona •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on May 3, 2026
We had the best time at Origen! Cocktails were wonderful and the food was divine. All of the flavors were complex and so delicious. We can’t wait to come back and try other items on the menu!
More info
Origen$$$$• Contemporary Mexican• North Park
•
4.7
K
KristieGold
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined on May 2, 2026
Excellent margarita’s! Excellent food! Highly recommend
More info
Cocina de Barrio North Park$$$$• Mexican• North Park
•
4.9
R
RhondaGold
San Diego •102 reviews
5.0
Dined on Apr 5, 2026
We went to Miguel's for dinner before a show at the Old Town Theater. The service was prompt and very good. Our server checked in on us several times during our meal. The tostada grande and the grilled swordfish tacos were both very good. The restaurant in is the heart of Old Town which is also nice. Great meal!!
More info
Miguel's Cocina - Old Town$$$$• Mexican• Old Town
•
4.4

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