Mexican Food in Carlsbad (2025)
Lola's 7 Up Market & Deli
Mexican grocery store · Carlsbad
Third-generation Carlsbad Barrio landmark serving burritos, chilaquiles, and hard-shell tacos from a family deli dating to the 1940s. Celebrated by San Diego Magazine and recognized locally for its deep community ties and enduring legacy.
Señor Grubby's
Mexican restaurant · Carlsbad
Locals-founded spot known for street tacos, breakfast burritos, and an active community presence around the #carlsbadartwall. Highlighted by the Carlsbad Chamber and praised for cocktails and crowd-pleasing plates.
El Tejate Restaurant
Mexican restaurant · Carlsbad
Oaxacan cooking in Carlsbad—handmade tortillas, tlayudas, rich moles, and tejate—documented on the restaurant’s official channels and praised by diners for regional authenticity.
Casero Taquería
Restaurant · Carlsbad
Baja-inspired taqueria in Bressi Ranch with house-ground masa tortillas and wood-fired meats. Profiled by Visit Carlsbad and covered in local restaurant news for staying community-focused through ownership changes.
PureTaco
Restaurant · Carlsbad
Independent taco bar in the Village marrying Baja staples with global flavors; covered by regional editors for its creative menu and margaritas. A fun counterpoint to traditional spots nearby.
Fresco Cocina
Mexican restaurant · Carlsbad
Modern Latin menu with strong Mexican throughlines—ceviches, tacos, and Veracruz-style seafood—opened by a longtime local restaurateur. Featured by The Coast News and noted for its lively bar program.
El Barrio Mexican Restaurant
Mexican restaurant · Carlsbad
Village favorite with a salsa flight, street tacos, and over 100 tequilas. Listed by the Carlsbad Village Association and Visit Carlsbad; weekend brunch adds huevos rancheros and more.
El Puerto Mexican & Seafood
Mexican restaurant · Carlsbad
Family-owned since 2005, known for handmade chips, aguas frescas, and Friday–Saturday street tacos with fresh tortillas. Included in Visit Carlsbad’s directory and active on community lists.
Garcia's Mexican Restaurant & Creative Catering
Mexican restaurant · Carlsbad
A Carlsbad institution dating to 1960, still family-run. The Carlsbad Chamber chronicles its community role, while the restaurant’s history emphasizes scratch cooking and multigenerational stewardship.
Jalisco Cantina
Mexican restaurant · Carlsbad
Independent cantina on State Street pouring craft margaritas and turning out tacos, enchiladas, and house-made tortillas. Listed by the Carlsbad Village Association and praised by recent diners.
