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Best Contemporary Mexican Restaurants in San Marcos

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4 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Fresco Cocina restaurant
1. Fresco Cocina
4.6
Exceptional(398)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary mexican • Carlsbad
Booked 27 times today
Fresco Cocina, nestled in the vibrant Carlsbad Village, is a culinary gem renowned for its exceptional Latin American cuisine. Patrons rave about the "modern interpretation" of Latin flavors, where each dish, from the "Brazilian Prime Skirt Steak" to the "Peruvian steak fajitas," is crafted with "Latin soul." The restaurant's atmosphere is consistently highlighted as "gorgeous" and "upscale beachy," making every dining experience a delightful escape. Reviewers are particularly enamored with the "creative cocktails" and the diverse menu that offers "mouthwatering flavors" in every bite. Whether it's the "short-rib tacos" or the "Peruvian ceviche," Fresco Cocina impresses with its bold and bright flavors, ensuring every guest leaves with plans to return. As one satisfied diner put it, this place is a "hidden gem" of Carlsbad, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a top-notch Latin American meal.
A photo of Vue - Omni La Costa Resort & Spa restaurant
2. Vue - Omni La Costa Resort & Spa
4.2
Awesome(158)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary mexican • Carlsbad
Booked 16 times today
At Vue - Omni La Costa Resort & Spa in Carlsbad, the essence of authentic Mexican cuisine is celebrated with every dish served. Nestled in a picturesque setting with breathtaking views over lush golf courses, Vue offers a dining experience where flavor and culture blend seamlessly. Guests rave about the "outstanding" Mexican selections, such as the corned beef hash with Brussels sprouts and the chimichurri sauce-draped short ribs, which are described as "outstanding." The coconut curry chicken is another highlight, noted for its authenticity and rich flavors. Diners consistently praise the culinary craftsmanship, with comments like "the Chilean sea bass was perfectly prepared" and the papaya salad being "sooo good." Vue's commitment to quality and authenticity makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking an exceptional Mexican meal in Carlsbad.
A photo of Cocina de Barrio Encinitas restaurant
3. Cocina de Barrio Encinitas
4.7
Exceptional(128)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary mexican • Encinitas
Booked 33 times today
Welcome to Cocina de Barrio, a vibrant gem tucked away in Encinitas, CA, where the essence of Oaxaca blends seamlessly with modern culinary artistry. This restaurant stands out for its "first-rate experience" as noted by diners who rave about everything from the "comfortable seating" to the "excellent service" and the "wonderfully presented" food and drinks. The menu at Cocina de Barrio goes beyond the ordinary, offering dishes that are both authentic and innovative, with special mentions to the "knockout" tableside guacamole and the "super tender and flavorful" lamb birria. Patrons particularly commend the brunch and happy hour, highlighting the "amazing customer service" and "one of a kind menu and cocktails." Whether you're a local or just passing through, Cocina de Barrio promises a culinary journey that's as authentic as it is unforgettable. Come for the food, stay for the "magical experience" of innovative mixology, and enjoy a taste of contemporary Mexico right in the heart of Encinitas.
A photo of Miguel's Cocina - Carlsbad restaurant
4. Miguel's Cocina - Carlsbad
4.5
Awesome(27)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary mexican • Carlsbad
Booked 21 times today
Miguel's Cocina in Carlsbad is a beacon of authentic Mexican cuisine, celebrated for its dedication to traditional, handcrafted dishes. Since its opening in 1982, this vibrant cantina has promised a menu that mirrors what you might find south of the border, featuring hand-made tortillas, freshly prepared salsas, and a variety of unique dishes such as pork belly quesadillas and carinta flautas. Guests rave about the quality and authenticity, with one noting, "the food was very delicious and my wife and I were treated like family." Another highlighted the "great Mexican restaurant in Carlsbad," praising the "absolutely delicious" food and "friendly and personalized" service. With such glowing testimonials and a commitment to genuine Mexican flavors, Miguel's Cocina stands out as a must-visit for anyone seeking a true taste of Mexico.
‘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
From verified diners like you
  • Laurie
    Orange County •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    It’s important to know that it’s Oaxacan cuisine. It’s different from SoCal traditional Mexican food (which I also love). Everything was excellent and yummy! I had the Agua Santa cocktail- OMG! I ate the tacos de birria - you could choose lamb or beef- and I chose the beef. So flavorful on blue corn tortillas and the beef melted in my mouth! You have to get the table side guacamole made to your liking in front of you! My husband and friends got different moles - all outstanding! We all were getting full and couldn’t stop eating! Even the “smashed” black beans were amazing! Can’t wait to come back! Cool, artsy decor, the owner stops by to check on you - this place has it ALL!
    More info
    Cocina de Barrio EncinitasPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Encinitas
    •
    4.7
  • DaraVIP
    San Diego •87 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    South of Nick’s for Christmas Eve was excellent as it usually is throughout the year. Food was delicious, and service was outstanding from start to finish. It is one of San Diego’s finest Mexican restaurants!
    More info
    South of Nick's - Del MarPrice: Expensive• Mexican• Del Mar
    •
    4.7
  • Miguel
    Baja California •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Service was very attentive and fast. Food was amazing!
    More info
    RED O Taste of Mexico - La JollaPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Mexican• La Jolla
    •
    4.4
  • Frank
    Los Angeles •564 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    A very cool looking restaurant with perfect ambiance. All the staff were friendly and attentive. The food was pretty good too. I’d definitely return. Thank you.
    More info
    Javier's - La JollaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• La Jolla
    •
    4.6
  • Lynn
    Pittsburgh / Western PA •17 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Great cocktails and the guacamole and chips is fantastic. Tacos are very good although some are much better than others. Shrimp tamarind is a star for our table.
    More info
    Puesto La JollaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• La Jolla
    •
    4.7

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