Restaurants in La Mesa
Best Restaurants
“I am so happy I found a middle eastern restaurant so close to home! This spot is a hidden gem. They have dishes that are each uniquely seasoned and plated. I’ve been a personal fan of their spicy baba ganoush which they really had a good kick to so it’s actually spicy and it is served with tasty pita, the first batch was bit crispier than I prefer but second round was pillow soft and warm! So far I have tried their betyi which is essentially your choice of meat wrapped in lavash bread and cut into bite sized pieces topped with a delicious tomato sauce and served with yogurt. I got one with lamb one day and the other day sirloin. Both equally delicious! I also have to give them the award for best lentil soup in town! Man that soup is hearty and soooo flavorful! My aunt also gave them the award for best falafels! Typically you get falafel and it’s like a hockey puck! But not here, they’re soft and delish! Also they have one hell of a baklava and serve it sandwiched with ice cream! I failed to snap a pic because that thing lasted 0.3 seconds at our table before it was devoured. Definitely coming here whenever I crave middle eastern food.”
“*BBQ Chicken Salad Perfection*: On a quest for something lighter, I ordered the BBQ Chicken Salad. It was a flavorful mix of smoked pulled chicken, avocado, and black beans, drizzled with cilantro ranch. Not only was the salad delicious, but the lively atmosphere and the friendly banter with the staff made my solo dining experience very pleasant. Kudos to Smokey and the Brisket for their exceptional service and delectable food.”
“Went here for restaurant week, had never been before. What a fantastic atmosphere and great staff. Our waitress made excellent recommendations regarding both food and drink and we were never disappointed. Would recommend to everyone.”
“Let me say BBQ is not my jam. HOWEVER I QUE was delish!! Service was absolutely amazing! I will definitely go back again and again and share. But once it’s gone … they are gone! So GO NOW !!! I believe they are open :Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday ( limited hours)”
“This place is absolutely amazing! Great food and the service was incredible. Lisa thank you for a lovely evening! You all have created raving fans out of myself and my husband, we will be back!”
Restaurants by Cuisine
“The best burger in east county!! Burgers taste best when eaten ASAP or dine in as they tend to get soggy and messy. Overall great burger, will definitely come back again.”
“Great food, great people, great restaurant. Here is the best Italian food and vibe you can get in San Diego County. I recommend this place to anyone who will listen. This might be the only true New York/New Jersey-esque Italian restaurant in Southern California. It's the kind of place you want your Italian restaurant to be. It's the kind of place you'll feel glad to bring a first date, or your grandma, or a friend from out of town.Pietro's even catered my rehearsal dinner and it was a real hit. Can't recommend this place higher!”
“One of the best places in San Diego for Mexican food that delights you with its wide variety of dishes with fresh products daily, I highly recommend it for any formal or informal event 10 out of 10.Vegetarian options: Very good selection of legumes, vegetables and fruits for salads”
Restaurants with Delivery
“Came here during their happy hour and they offer some pretty good deals. Got their mastiff fries, Brussels sprouts, and smash burger slider. Each of these were $5. They also offer $5 off all their whole pizzas. Took advantage of this and ordered their That's My Boy pizza. Suuuuuper good. Comes with pepperoni, ricotta cheese, jalapeño, honey, and red sauce. The balance of spiciness and sweetness is perfect. I noticed they had a bunch of beers on draft so it would be a great place to chill and have some drinks, too.”
“By far our favorite Thai restaurant! Some of our faves are - Massaman Curry, Pad Thai, Fried Rice, Pad See Ew, Vegetable Curry Puffs and Wonton Soup. We usually do pick-up and it's always friendly service.”
“The food and quality are super good here. It’s a fast casual place in the food court. The flavors are on-point. We had the phish bowl, Cali burrito, and tacos de papas.”
“Nothing is perfect they say but Brigantine is close. The only thing that I'm not cool with are mob scenes. Well Taco Tuesday is elbow to elbow Be prepared to be social and party like 1999 because the $7 Happy Hour menu is a party. I've been coming here since 1999 so I partied! with oyster shooters, calamari and shrimp cocktail Margaritas weren't the buzz. Stick to wine!!”
“I am so happy I found a middle eastern restaurant so close to home! This spot is a hidden gem. They have dishes that are each uniquely seasoned and plated. I’ve been a personal fan of their spicy baba ganoush which they really had a good kick to so it’s actually spicy and it is served with tasty pita, the first batch was bit crispier than I prefer but second round was pillow soft and warm! So far I have tried their betyi which is essentially your choice of meat wrapped in lavash bread and cut into bite sized pieces topped with a delicious tomato sauce and served with yogurt. I got one with lamb one day and the other day sirloin. Both equally delicious! I also have to give them the award for best lentil soup in town! Man that soup is hearty and soooo flavorful! My aunt also gave them the award for best falafels! Typically you get falafel and it’s like a hockey puck! But not here, they’re soft and delish! Also they have one hell of a baklava and serve it sandwiched with ice cream! I failed to snap a pic because that thing lasted 0.3 seconds at our table before it was devoured. Definitely coming here whenever I crave middle eastern food.”
“Great spot for coffee and lunch. I know a lot of reviews say it's a great place to work from, I have to say I disagree. This is an awesome coffee shop and it has wifi, but it also plays screamo/hard rock music which isn't the most conducive for working and they only allow laptops at certain tables. Will definitely be back but sans laptop.”
“Love this place. I have gone a few times and each time has been a good experience. Went at night and they only had one server at the time and she was doing it all. Serving drinks and food. Props to her. Atmosphere is great. Drinks are affordable, and the food is good.”
“First time here as we were staying in the neighbourhood. Food was all good. We had rolled tacos, asada tacos and nachos. Portions are big and we had so much food we had to take some home. The staff are lovely!”
“This restaurant is in downtown La Mesa seriously amazing. Probably the best burger I've ever had. I got to be the last burger before they sold out. it was so juicy but honestly this sauce they put on top has like southwest flavoring, and they have roasted poblano peppers on top of the burger. So much flavor but not falling apart. This place is clean, nice and the most accommodating staff. The owners were there and took care of us personally. It's definitely worth the line.”
“*BBQ Chicken Salad Perfection*: On a quest for something lighter, I ordered the BBQ Chicken Salad. It was a flavorful mix of smoked pulled chicken, avocado, and black beans, drizzled with cilantro ranch. Not only was the salad delicious, but the lively atmosphere and the friendly banter with the staff made my solo dining experience very pleasant. Kudos to Smokey and the Brisket for their exceptional service and delectable food.”
“Went here for restaurant week, had never been before. What a fantastic atmosphere and great staff. Our waitress made excellent recommendations regarding both food and drink and we were never disappointed. Would recommend to everyone.”
“The best banana pudding you’ll ever have. Recipe is his grandmothers and he’s a super nice guy. I tried lots of flavors and they were all amazing. My favorite had to be the original banana pudding though. Must try!!”
“Let me say BBQ is not my jam. HOWEVER I QUE was delish!! Service was absolutely amazing! I will definitely go back again and again and share. But once it’s gone … they are gone! So GO NOW !!! I believe they are open :Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday ( limited hours)”
“This place is absolutely amazing! Great food and the service was incredible. Lisa thank you for a lovely evening! You all have created raving fans out of myself and my husband, we will be back!”
“The best burger in east county!! Burgers taste best when eaten ASAP or dine in as they tend to get soggy and messy. Overall great burger, will definitely come back again.”
“We are regulars here because the service is top notch, the food/sushi is excellent, and the bartenders remember us and our favorite drinks every time we grab a seat at the bar. The Rose Roll is second to none, the Ramen is bomb, and my partner loves the Lemon Cilantro Roll as well. It can get really busy late night on the weekends and sushi during these times can take a long time to come out (understandably) so plan ahead, be patient and kind. Mahalo!Parking: The ground floor of the parking structure next door is free for restaurant parking! And it has EV Chargers!”
“Does and done to heaven. Their Thursday oyster happy hour special is delicious. Handcrafted cocktails will not disappoint. Service is ok as it is extremely busy during dinner. You don't get a ton of attention. However, I feel that the quality of the food makes up for it.”
“This is our go to for Indian and it's in La Mesa, there is always a table and take out is quick. We love the complementary dal soup and the tofu is always nicely done.”
Outdoor Dining
“Hands down the best vegan bakery in town! The donuts are a taste sensation - delicious AF! From classic to creative, they nail it. A must-visit for vegans and donut lovers alike. Kudos to the bakers - you've created a plant-based paradise!”
“I loved their mocha! Great local coffee place and café. Lots of outdoor seating and parking. The staff was super friendly. Great experience! I will definitely be back. My only disappointment is that they do not have merch! Would have loved to get a fun T-shirt, hat or beanie. Coffee culture is a thing. Coffee lovers like to collect merch from memorable coffee houses in our travels. Hopefully next time I am in town, I will be able to pick up a fun T-shirt. ??☕️ ?”
“One of the best places in San Diego for Mexican food that delights you with its wide variety of dishes with fresh products daily, I highly recommend it for any formal or informal event 10 out of 10.Vegetarian options: Very good selection of legumes, vegetables and fruits for salads”
“We are regulars here because the service is top notch, the food/sushi is excellent, and the bartenders remember us and our favorite drinks every time we grab a seat at the bar. The Rose Roll is second to none, the Ramen is bomb, and my partner loves the Lemon Cilantro Roll as well. It can get really busy late night on the weekends and sushi during these times can take a long time to come out (understandably) so plan ahead, be patient and kind. Mahalo!Parking: The ground floor of the parking structure next door is free for restaurant parking! And it has EV Chargers!”
“100% transparent review. Parkings a little tight Food is 100% worth every bite.(I got the biscuits and gravy plus) Service was great, the young man serving made returners feel like regulars. Will definitely bring my family back not only for the food but to also add a little color.”
“Does and done to heaven. Their Thursday oyster happy hour special is delicious. Handcrafted cocktails will not disappoint. Service is ok as it is extremely busy during dinner. You don't get a ton of attention. However, I feel that the quality of the food makes up for it.”
“Wanted to try something new. This gem in downtown LaMesa is excellent!!! From the chips and salsa to the beef tacos and enchiladas. This place is authentic and a must try. We will most definitely be back sooner than later!!!”
“Pizza by the slice & garlic knots or a whole pie. You can't go wrong with any of the choices.If you go on the weekend be prepared for a packed house. There us lots of outdoor seating to accommodate though.”
“Stopped by for yummy yogurt and was pleasantly surprised by the awesome customer service, the variety of choices, cozy atmosphere, and great hours! Highly recommend.”
“My favorite sandwiches in town. Great food and great service. Very friendly!Vegetarian options: Lots of options to make a vegetarian sandwich without meats. Great options. Got one for my dad wh0 is vegetarian.Parking: Many many spots available, though you may have to walk a bit.Kid-friendliness: Kids options and very friendly.”
“Good selections but most dishes have cheese ? but menu descriptions don't state that it has cheese. I tried the corn beef hash with eggs. It was okay but the hash was very salty I suppose if you mix the potatoes and eggs with the hash it will tame the saltiness of the hash. Coffee ☕️ is good especially since there is a selection to choose from.”
“Grilled chicken was fantastic and the baklava was so delicious!When I walked in, I was greeted with a smile and positive vibes and I cannot wait to try a different item next time.”
“Delicious food made with love and care! I love this family owned Thai place. The restaurant is a little cozy so it may be better for take out. The portions were good and the taste was phenomenal! I'll definitely be back. Thank you for your service!”
“Excellent flavor. Really fresh & Sweet fruit for a side was an outstanding surprise! The sandwich had ample turkey and the house salad dressing was a variation of a sweet Italian with a green twist. Salsa with the burrito had a robust chili flavor. Will be returning.”
“This place has great subs, especially the hot pastrami. The pizza is great too! The dough is so good, the sauce tastes great, fresh ingredients and they always use A LOT of cheese. Definitely one of my go-to spots for comfort food. I went for breakfast once and it was very good with big portions, Im just not a morning person. I typically call ahead and pick up, they get me in and out quick.”
“I'm a regular visitor, live in the neighborhood. There's something about this brewing, it has its own charm. They have sour and regular beers. Two separate warehouses. I prefer regular and there are lots to choose from. On Wednesday, Thursday and Friday they have food track till 8 pm and live music on weekends. The atmosphere and people are very nice here. It feels like a family:). I recommend visiting this place on the weekend evening.”
“I don't know how i haven't left a review here before! I've been going here for years. At least 5/6. I come every Monday for wing night and it's my absolute favorite tradition, I've never had an issue with the service or attitudes. I know all of the serves by name and they all know me. They're always very polite. And the wings are always phenomenal! They always do their best to accommodate whoever i bring and even bring out heaters if it's too cold outside. I am absolutely obsessed with west coast and all of its employees.”
“I been all over Italy and have experienced lots of Italian food. This place feels like I was in Italy. The owner talks to you, like your family. The servers nonstop ask if you need anything. The service is premium and the food is amazing. So happy to have found this gem.”
Online Reservation Available
“A delightful experience. The spacious setting, adorned with chic and stylish decor, set the stage for a fantastic evening. Despite the bustling crowd, the atmosphere buzzed with energy, creating a lively and enjoyable ambiance that added to the celebratory mood. The extensive space allowed for a comfortable dining experience, even amidst the large number of patrons. The service was commendable, ensuring a seamless and pleasant celebration. The culinary offerings were a gastronomic delight, with an array of Italian dishes that tantalized the taste buds. Overall, this restaurant provides not just delicious food but also an inviting and celebratory atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to mark special occasions or simply indulge in a vibrant dining experience.”
“Ordered momentos platter and quesadilla platter. Pretty normal. Pancakes are a hit with the kids, as always. I liked their beans that came with the quesadilla. Nothing really stood out but enjoyable lunch nonetheless.”
“I don't know how i haven't left a review here before! I've been going here for years. At least 5/6. I come every Monday for wing night and it's my absolute favorite tradition, I've never had an issue with the service or attitudes. I know all of the serves by name and they all know me. They're always very polite. And the wings are always phenomenal! They always do their best to accommodate whoever i bring and even bring out heaters if it's too cold outside. I am absolutely obsessed with west coast and all of its employees.”
“We visited Bamboo Fresh Thai Cuisine, and this place fulfilled our craving for Thai food! The ladies were super kind, welcoming, and engaging. We learned about the history of some of their specialty dishes and how the Thai people also eat them. It was hot and sunny, so we had a rich and refreshing Thai Iced Tea to cool us down. We started with the Curry Puffs, which were so pillowy and heavenly. These were definitely made with love! Next, we enjoyed the Som Tum Salad and Pad Thai with Tofu which were flavorful and complemented one another so well. The dishes were all beautifully presented and perfectly balanced between salty, sweet, spicy, and sour. Make sure you try a sweet treat in the end. We had the creamy Tapioca Coconut Milk and it did not disappoint. There were so many dishes on the menu, and we can’t wait to visit again to try them all. The food was delicious, and the staff was simply amazing! If you absolutely love Thai food, this is the place!”
“I been all over Italy and have experienced lots of Italian food. This place feels like I was in Italy. The owner talks to you, like your family. The servers nonstop ask if you need anything. The service is premium and the food is amazing. So happy to have found this gem.”
“I hadn’t been here in YEARS and was in the area and stopped by for lunch. It has gotten even better! They have a cute little patio, the service was great and the food was amazing!”
“Have had many fine meals at this wonderful restaurant. Today I tried the swordfish piccata. May be the tastiest style of swordfish I've ever had. And tried it on whim. Thank you Anthony's. Thank you Craig. Yum!!!”
“This place is beautiful. It takes my back home (Guadalajara)The food is amazing, authentic, Mexican food. I always get upset when I go to taco shops and call that Mexican food!! This is for real!!!!They have a full top shelf bar, the bar is big and beautiful, the de or is breath taking.Thank you for bringing a little bit of home to San Diego!!Parking: You park on the streetKid-friendliness: They have a kids menu”
“I've been coming here for years. There are so many items on the menu that do NOT disappoint! The stuffed potato skin appetizers, the bread pudding dessert, the red cabbage, the boxtys, the mac n' cheese, ANYTHING with corned beef! I'm always so happy in my belly with Hooley's to eat. My experience with service and atmosphere has generally been a mixed bag. The quiet dining area is pretty boring, so I tend to prefer the bar area (still have regular tables, not strictly bar-seating) for smaller groups.Parking: The restaurant is very much situated within Grossmont Mall, so there is a lot of parking. It's far enough from the general shopping area that even during busy shopping times, I always get a spot close.”
“Love this restaurant . It's the only one left in San Diego and Gem. We had an amazing server (Ally) I wanted to give her a shout out because she was actually a Host helping , but we did not even know. She was knowledgeable , speedy, attentive. It is hard to find great customer service these days but El Torritos staff has a lot of great employees , and their Manager is always so supportive of his employees and positive ! And Most of all the food still tastes like it used to, it is a blast from the past in a good way. We love the lunch specials especially the unlimited soup and salad. Also the decor is classic. We hope this restaurant will be here for many years to come . It's a perfect place for family gatherings , or just a small intimate get together . They have a menu with something for everybody and the prices aren't out of control.?Vegetarian options: Veggie fajitas, if you are one who eats cheeses, they have cheese options.Dietary restrictions: Gluten free options.Parking: There are plenty of spaces , and handicap is in a nice spot.Kid-friendliness: Kids menu , I take kids all the time.Family atmosphere.”
“I was a first time customer here in November 2019. I never knew I never came back, but the food was awesome! I ordered a California Burrito, and for a price of under $13 (with a drink) it was the best deal. Sadly I never finished it since it was so big, but I did enjoy it a lot!! The best!!!”
“The Zuppa di Tuscano was FABULOUS!! I am a resident of Nor Cal, and the soups are standard and sparsely filled with meat. Not the So Cal Grossmont location!!! Wwwwooowww!! The soup was filling and nicely made. Very tasty.”
“Great location, it definitely has a great vibe.There was live music, food truck, and of course; amazing wine.Really great staff, friendly, professional, and helpful.Really recommend.”
“Delicious! Stopped here because it had some great reviews on Yelp. My daughter and I each ordered the carne asada burritos. They normally come with pico de gallo and guacamole. We ordered one that way and another one with guacamole and cheese, no pico.The man who took our order was very customer service oriented and he was helpful when we asked questions. We waited about 6 minutes and our order was ready. I opted for green salsa and we took our food home.We ran into traffic, so it was longer than 15min drive. The great news was that the burritos were still hot and delicious when we ate them...in the car! We are definitely coming back to this place. This is definitely a new Mexican food spot on our list. And, they have BIRRIA here!”
“Place was amazing food was so good and service was great I received from a super nice lady. I am super glad I came here since I am a delivery driver for Amazon when I get lunch I will be coming here. The food is phenomenal, I had to say it again, and if you’re a foodie like I am you have to try this place. The California burrito is giant and 13$ definitely worth the price unlike other taco shops.”
“I hadn’t been here in YEARS and was in the area and stopped by for lunch. It has gotten even better! They have a cute little patio, the service was great and the food was amazing!”
“Have had many fine meals at this wonderful restaurant. Today I tried the swordfish piccata. May be the tastiest style of swordfish I've ever had. And tried it on whim. Thank you Anthony's. Thank you Craig. Yum!!!”
“This place is beautiful. It takes my back home (Guadalajara)The food is amazing, authentic, Mexican food. I always get upset when I go to taco shops and call that Mexican food!! This is for real!!!!They have a full top shelf bar, the bar is big and beautiful, the de or is breath taking.Thank you for bringing a little bit of home to San Diego!!Parking: You park on the streetKid-friendliness: They have a kids menu”
24 Hour Restaurants
“I was so hungry I could eat a cow... i ordered the carne asada fries, well done with guac.. & smelly,smelly feet..+ a pepsi..all I have to say is that it was awesome, savory, and tasty with the salsa selection included. A la frontera compa!!!!!!!!!Parking: Awesome!”
“The food is great .The staff was so nice they made sure we were happy with everything. I have been there before and I will be going back I love Denny's”
“I went through the drive thru twice on the first day I went and staff was very professional. Even tho it wasn't busy, I could hear objects like kitchen utensils being used and not loud employees being loud amongst themselves.”
“I think this is one of the better chain Taco Shops growing in San Diego. They have a bunch of locations now. They also have a lot of unique burrito options. I love Chile Relleno, Huevos Ranchero, and Philly Steak Burritos. The regular stuff like carne asada, carnitas, pollo, etc.. are all good also. The red sauce is really good, just not my perfered red Taco sauce style.The food is always good and you will enjoy.”
“I really liked los Tito’s compared to a lot of other places, good street tacos, with multiple different meat options. Their rolled tacos topped with guacamole and shredded cheese are delicious. If you visit San Diego, this is one of the best places to eat!”
“I've been coming here for years. There are so many items on the menu that do NOT disappoint! The stuffed potato skin appetizers, the bread pudding dessert, the red cabbage, the boxtys, the mac n' cheese, ANYTHING with corned beef! I'm always so happy in my belly with Hooley's to eat. My experience with service and atmosphere has generally been a mixed bag. The quiet dining area is pretty boring, so I tend to prefer the bar area (still have regular tables, not strictly bar-seating) for smaller groups.Parking: The restaurant is very much situated within Grossmont Mall, so there is a lot of parking. It's far enough from the general shopping area that even during busy shopping times, I always get a spot close.”
20
El Torito
“Love this restaurant . It's the only one left in San Diego and Gem. We had an amazing server (Ally) I wanted to give her a shout out because she was actually a Host helping , but we did not even know. She was knowledgeable , speedy, attentive. It is hard to find great customer service these days but El Torritos staff has a lot of great employees , and their Manager is always so supportive of his employees and positive ! And Most of all the food still tastes like it used to, it is a blast from the past in a good way. We love the lunch specials especially the unlimited soup and salad. Also the decor is classic. We hope this restaurant will be here for many years to come . It's a perfect place for family gatherings , or just a small intimate get together . They have a menu with something for everybody and the prices aren't out of control.?Vegetarian options: Veggie fajitas, if you are one who eats cheeses, they have cheese options.Dietary restrictions: Gluten free options.Parking: There are plenty of spaces , and handicap is in a nice spot.Kid-friendliness: Kids menu , I take kids all the time.Family atmosphere.”
“The Zuppa di Tuscano was FABULOUS!! I am a resident of Nor Cal, and the soups are standard and sparsely filled with meat. Not the So Cal Grossmont location!!! Wwwwooowww!! The soup was filling and nicely made. Very tasty.”
Takeout Restaurants
“A nice salty little tap room in a place we never would have found if our dog hadn't broken a $550 nail... The bartender was the pleasantly gruff you would want to expect at a wee neighborhood place. He definitely had me nailed just walking in for a Porter, the wartime chocolate, and a fine pick it was. As always in San Diego, a very IPA heavy menu (5 IPA, 3 cream, 2 sour) out of 16 taps, but the Kolsh was good as well. Atmosphere was very nice, for a cozy little place, especially for Canadian WWII buffs. If I am back this way, I will be back.”
“Great food, great people, great restaurant. Here is the best Italian food and vibe you can get in San Diego County. I recommend this place to anyone who will listen. This might be the only true New York/New Jersey-esque Italian restaurant in Southern California. It's the kind of place you want your Italian restaurant to be. It's the kind of place you'll feel glad to bring a first date, or your grandma, or a friend from out of town.Pietro's even catered my rehearsal dinner and it was a real hit. Can't recommend this place higher!”
“This little cafe is tucked away in a business building, but have delicious cookies and wraps! They were so kind and welcoming to our staff. They do offer gluten free wraps as well. The wraps are pretty full and filling, and the cookies are soft in the middle with a crunchy outer layer. Definitely going to stop by soon :)”
“This is our go to for Indian and it's in La Mesa, there is always a table and take out is quick. We love the complementary dal soup and the tofu is always nicely done.”
“Great salsa great food! ? Great customer service. Very welcoming, and accommodating. This family run small business raises the bar for customer service and fits perfectly into the neighborhood that surround it.Parking: In a shared business complex but parking is always readily availableKid-friendliness: Small family run restaurant, family and child Friendly.Wheelchair accessibility: Wheelchair accessible”
“Very cheap and good potato tacosVegetarian options: Some are vegetarian I'm vegetarian mostly just get the potato tacos they put like a gallon of cheese and greens”
“I'm so glad I finally had the chance to try this cute place. I was craving a decaf iced americano and it was perfect!! The owner is very cool and personable and I will definitely be back .”
“I went out on a limb and put in my delivery instructions a special request for some spare trash bags because I didn’t have any at the house. Not only was the pizza delicious and the delivery timely, but they actually fulfilled my silly request, which I wasn’t expecting but always appreciate! As if that wasn’t a pleasant enough surprise, the wonderful staff at this location enclosed an assortment of candy for me as a gesture of good will. What a way to keep a customer coming! From here on out, every trip I take to San Diego, I will be stopping by. Tip the staff, and tip generously! They deserve it!”
“Amazing food typically, but this last time the burrito was small. Apparently they got a new cook so I’m updating my review but hopefully they get someone new and bring back the old burritos! ? best taco shop in la mesa!”
“Food is really great but yeah service was slow. My daughter had the seafood spaghetti, my husband had the lasagna, i had the build your own pesto pasta. Their pesto pasta was really good. The dried tomatoes on it was so good. Pesto sauce was creamy. I had shrimp and meatballs on it. Chicken and shrimp would have been better. The build your own pasta is good for two especially if you're having 2 kinds of meat. Their meatballs was big and good, that would be great with the spaghetti not pesto.”
“I stopped in for a quick bite and was super happy of my choice. Caritas, and a adobada taco. Both perfectly seasoned too. I returned later that day for a surf and turf burrito. Adobada and shrimp ❤️❤️. This will be your favorite taco spot.”
“Absolutely delicious! High quality ingredients, perfectly seasoned. I have a family member at Alvarado and was hungry glad I stopped in for a huge and satisfying burrito . The carne asada is tender and flavorful, love the free chips as well! ”
“This place is the reason I get out of bed. Their coffee is great, arguably the best in San Diego.They have fun breakfast items from ever-changing flavors of iced donuts to hot breakfast sandwiches and good bagels with the only vegan cream cheese I’ve ever had that tastes good. But the best part of dark horse la Mesa is their staff. They make my morning. They know my drink , they get me in my way so I’m not stressed about getting to work on time because I’ve stopped for coffee . They’re funny, caring , personable and make damn good lattes . That’s why I am there ever single morning.”
“We live nearby, less than 2 miles away and this was our first time visiting. It was taco Tuesday and I saw they had $1.85 street tacos (price as of 2/6/24). Options were chicken, carne asada, and adobada. I had one of each and they were amazing !We ate there and enjoyed really tasty chips and salsa while the tacos were being made. The pictures of all the music artists on the wall were so fun to look at and the music was also really nostalgic. Also, the staff was so helpful and friendly. Some places make you feel rushed and this really felt inviting.I had 3 tacos and my fiance had 4. It was the perfect amount for each of us for dinner. But at $1.85 each, get as many as you want!We had the chipotle crema salsa and the habanero salsa. Both were excellent. Habanero salsa wasn’t overly spicy, despite it looking like their hottest salsa.I’m excited to come here for other items too. Their breakfast burritos , quesadillas , and tortas also all look amazing. We’re so lucky to have this gem in our neighborhood. I highly suggest coming by and getting a meal if you’re in the area.”
“Great food and service. The house made pink lemonade with rose petals was super good!!! And the gyro sandwich was massive. Thank you Petrino’s!! Keep up the great work!!”
“I've seen this place for yearssss and never thought to stop in, but my salon hosted a dinner here, and this place was a little vibe, kinda lowkey . The food was good with live music . Definitely gave a casino vibe with the decor, but it's definitely a cool little date spot with ya friends or man's ”
“Great location, it definitely has a great vibe.There was live music, food truck, and of course; amazing wine.Really great staff, friendly, professional, and helpful.Really recommend.”
“we were so lucky to get there in time today went there yesterday and they were already sold out of the size of ham we were looking for so we had our fingers crossed we would luck out today and we sure did”
Drive-Thru Restaurants
“I stopped in for a quick snack using coupons. The server was very courteous. The soft serve ice cream cone was cold and a good portion. The corn dog with mustard packets seemed small but was hot and delicious.”
“Great food, friendly and fast service (especially David G!), and a clean restaurant with the best smelling bathroom. How is that even possible? Love Sombreros and this one on Lake Murray is fantastic.Parking: Shares lot with Wing Stop”
“Best Jack in the Box in town. I don't know where the Yelp complaints come from, but the food is always hot, and the service is quick. I've been going here for 50 years.”
“Every time I go to Chick-fil-A the food is hot and fresh. There's plenty of staff around and they seem happy as a result. The lobby is always clean even when there's a huge line or a lot of customers. I always get my food in time. The owner of the location even came up to greet my family on a few different occasions. You won't find quality and service like this anywhere else.”
“I have been going to this store for about 7 years & I have only had positive experiences. The staff are efficient and friendly and the service is quick. Don't worry if you see a long line for the drive-thru... they'll have you through the line & on your way before you know it! ☕️Parking: It's a very small & awkwardly shaped lot, so it can be a challenge to find parking. I'd recommend going through the drive-thru. However, if you're over at Lake Murray, it is a super convenient walk.”
“I was promptly and politely greeted. Hasey asked how my day was and I replied good. What she didn't know was my work day so far had been a nightmare. Her customer service continued to go above and beyond the standard here's your coffee. She makes a difference with her kindness. Thank you”
“Starbucks is in the process of closing stores or remodeling them into drive-thrus and and walk-up windows only, with no interior seating (See Kensington and Lake Murray). This store is great! They have comfortable leather chairs with little side tables, some bench seating, and numerous tables. I drive a little farther just to get to the store!”
“I always come here on my lunch break and Emerson is always extremely kind and helpful! She was patient and helped me navigate the menu my first visit and has been a great help since. Kudos to her excellent customer service and attention to detail. I will definitely be a frequent visitor for my lunch breaks.”
“Carl's Jr is the first restaurant I've seen that does take orders by artificial intelligence and actually it's pretty neat because even though there was an error when we initially put our order in just talk to him normal and they actually correct the air and the order comes out right. I've never seen artificial intelligence taking over like that before so it's pretty neat I've seen that now at 2 Carl's Jr locations. They are the only locations of any fast food restaurants that I've seen that takes orders from the AI system.”
“Well, let's just say I never thought I would write a review on an Mc Donalds, but then first time for everything. This Mc Donalds is good, for the most part, they will get your order correct l, the staff is kinda friendly, and the drive-thru waits are not that long. Overall 4.1/5.”
“The location on Spring Street in La Mesa has been remodeled and is much nicer inside. We ate in the restaurant. The booth was nice with lots of room to relax and eat. My son told me that the orange cream cycle frostie was the bomb and kept trying to get me to try it. Overall, it was a pleasant experience, and I will be back.”
“I like this particular place because it's one of the few that still have Powerade Zero. My husband and I are both diabetics and cannot tolerate soda, even the "Diet Soda"So JITB was always our go to fast food. However it seems most franchises have gotten rid of the machine that offers that particular drink and we are once again left without a real choice. We have searched the entire South Bay area and discovered this JITB !!! Hallelujah!!!! The food comes out piping hot every time we have been there!”
“Service was good and the food is good, well, for being fast food. But damn, the prices have gone up a lot. Their food is good for what their prices used to be. People don't go there because the food is THAT good. People go there for the convenience of the price. I hope their prices go down because I do love their menu, but not enough to overpay for fast food.”
“I have a short break in my Medicare appointments, so McDonald's it is. I had the Big Mac combo for the first time in ages. Everything was prepared properly and quickly, which I needed. I was hungry and limited on time, and this hit the spot.”
“Great doesn't even begin to describe Konnichiwa. I come from a family that has fished in SanDiego for the last 60yrs so I am well aware of quality of seafood. This establishment is the bomb. Chef Juan and his crew prepare your plate with flair and fashion. Quality of food is impeccable. Fresh, fresh, fresh and the service is first rate. Amanda, Ben, German and Julia serve you top rate from the moment you step inside greeting you and making sure the fantastic flavors are to your liking. Carol the owner should be proud to have employees that care about the quality and service they deliver. (No after COVID customer service here) Don't let the size of the building fool you. Small but japanese style seating. Fantastic atmosphere with emoji style comic book flair everywhere. ありがとうございます, Domo arigatou and thank you. Super glad to have met you all and hope to see you in the future when I return to my homeland roots. Ciao.”
“The La Mesa staff is always friendly and professional. The staff checks on you just enough to make sure your drink and food order is to your expectations. The food always arrives on time , is made as expected and our party of 4 adults enjoyed what they ordered on this visit.”
“Fin arcade for kids. They have lots of games to play, and you can pause your unlimited card if you want to eat. Food was not the best. It was cold and soggy, and the crust was stale.Kid-friendliness: Arcade for kids to play in, you can get an unlimited card, which means you can play infinitely for a certain amount of time.”
Cheap Eats
“I just celebrated my birthday in the most epic way at Deano's! Reserved a huge booth to see the 80z Allstars band with my friends! Dean, the bartenders, and barback work so hard to ensure every guest is having a great time! Deano's is now my go-to party place!”
“Best Breakfast Burrito in town in my opinion. The downside is they close early but the food is fantastic and worth parking walking in and ordering. This is the old school taco shop and still one of the best.”
“I went in yesterday, never been before. The ladies who helped me order were amazing, specially one. Thank you! I wish I would have asked your name. The food she suggested I order was amazing and just the right flavor. My family really enjoyed it. I will be back.”
“Discovered Patty's Cafe Today Very clean and inviting! Prices are competitive. Wide variety of menu items. Old fashioned breakfast which we don't have enough of around here. Mexican American, Greek options for lunch and dinner too. Best news! They don't put sausage in their country gravy!!! They will on request though. They do not disappoint. Try it for yourself”
“Came in for my favorite item in the menu, the famous chamango! The mango is delicious! It's super refreshing and the mango is sweet! I definitely recommend if you haven't tried it! Soooo mouth watering even in the cold weather”
“The workers are 2 seniors and they were a little slow but the food was great. It was well worth the wait.Parking: It's at a mall. plenty of parking.Kid-friendliness: they had kids platesWheelchair accessibility: very accessible”
“The food and drinks were incredible! I got the birthday waffles and a pink rose lemonade! If you want to start or end your day good, visit the Pink Rose Cafe!! <<3 ?”
“Sorry it’s been a while since I’ve posted about a cool and unique or super good place Do you like old school delis that are super freaking good? Do you like not spending an arm and a leg for a meal in and around San Diego. If you’re like me then you need some BMH in your life!!!Had the Baja Spice today!As always on the Portnoy Scale of Sangweech I dub the Baja Spice a solid 8.3 !!!Literally everything I needed in my life today!!! Unfortunately I neglected to take a pic of the Sando. Luckily I’ll be back soon!Amazing experience like always!”
“Went for the first time after seeing this place for years. Absolutely amazing food and top quality ingredients. 10/10 will be back. The pancakes are incredible and the service was top notch. They customized our order so we could try multiple items. Loved ”
“I'm a burrito lover and I can say that their carne asada is pretty delicious. The meat quality is excellent and fresh. The taste of the meat is rich, vigorous, well-fried and the salt is perfect for me. Vegetables and avocado sauce were added in due quantity to the dish. Other people may want more vegetable filling, but I like to have more meat and they have the perfect proportion and juiciness of the dish! The service is pleasant and friendly, thank them for the fast cooking!”
“My favorite is their vegan orange chicken. It's really good and there are a lot of other vegan/vegetarian options to choose from. By far, one of the best in San Diego.Vegetarian options: They also have vegan optionsParking: They are located inside the food court at Grossmont Center / Mall.”
“Best curry place with best protein options- real or mock duck my favorites! Good flavors! Basil duck is delicious!! Really recommend this place ❣️Vegetarian options: Just discuss it with the staff many veggies choices”
“This is a hidden gem. I love gyros and it is so good here. The staff is friendly, and very helpful with the extensive menu. The hummus is a particular favorite, I definitely recommend ”
“So glad that I finally made it to this bar after living in the neighborhood for so long. I'm also very glad that I came in with a regular who knew a person or two as this has a very "locals" feel to it. First thought that ran through my head was that it was much bigger than I had expected it to be. I didn't even make it to the other side of the bar, which is also sizeable. Service was quick and there were a few folks playing pool on one of the two tables that I saw, (there may be more) and it had a nice outdoor space for patrons to go to for a quick smoke or two. Prices were average and the people were friendly, and for that, what more can you really ask for in a neighborhood bar?”
“Food is great, price is 100% unbeatable, and the portions are HUGE. It's like this place cares about their customers and gives them what they deserve. Been going here for years and nothings changed even since Bidens America. Cash only which is great too”
“What more could you ask for in a restaurant? Great food, friendly service, and a pleasant atmosphere—all checked off the list! We indulged in the meatballs as an entree, along with the bone-in short ribs, flat iron steak, and bison burger (we're definitely meat enthusiasts). Every dish was superb!For a special treat, don't hesitate to ask the bartender to whip up the Kiwi Kiss Me Martini! Highly recommended.”
“There are inconsistencies in the beef udon spice level. This is a recent change because it use to be a nice spice but not too much. I'm not sure if it's because of different cooks but several times we will get udon recently and it's way too spicy and you can see a reddish orange film on top of the broth of the udon that will indicate its too spicy. We actually asked them to make sure they didn't put a lot of spice, and it was extra spicy.”
“Boar's Head + awesome fresh bread + stubborn soda = a great deli option. I'm not a fan of the chain sandwich joints, and as a BH ride or die fan, it's great to have something like this in the area. Inside there's 6 tables, but the center is bare enough for the to go crowd to wait. I normally drink water, but saw the Stubborn Soda options and said why not. The turkey club was delightful on squaw with the right amount of condiments to toppings / meat. Will definitely be back, gotta support local.”
Latest Reviews
“Service was good and the food is good, well, for being fast food. But damn, the prices have gone up a lot. Their food is good for what their prices used to be. People don't go there because the food is THAT good. People go there for the convenience of the price. I hope their prices go down because I do love their menu, but not enough to overpay for fast food.”
“Went to Johnny B's for the 1st time the other day. I live in La Mesa so I'm all for supporting local. Burger and fries were awesome. Janelle was our server and she was THE BOMB.COM!! Her attention to our needs made the dining experience fabulous I'll definitely be returning”
“The big rolled tacos (with potato) come fully loaded and are a great healthy, hearty meal. Staff were awesome, outdoor seating was perfect for an early evening dinner.Kid-friendliness: Kid’s menu has the standard fare- quesadillas and chicken nuggets with fries.”
“Good selections but most dishes have cheese ? but menu descriptions don't state that it has cheese. I tried the corn beef hash with eggs. It was okay but the hash was very salty I suppose if you mix the potatoes and eggs with the hash it will tame the saltiness of the hash. Coffee ☕️ is good especially since there is a selection to choose from.”
“I hadn’t been here in YEARS and was in the area and stopped by for lunch. It has gotten even better! They have a cute little patio, the service was great and the food was amazing!”
“Great spot in la Mesa! Food is good, I love the poke nachos and all the tacos. Great cocktails too. Happy hour is definitely worth it. Service is good, vibe is chill. Will definitely be ”
“I just celebrated my birthday in the most epic way at Deano's! Reserved a huge booth to see the 80z Allstars band with my friends! Dean, the bartenders, and barback work so hard to ensure every guest is having a great time! Deano's is now my go-to party place!”
Most Popular Restaurants
“A delightful experience. The spacious setting, adorned with chic and stylish decor, set the stage for a fantastic evening. Despite the bustling crowd, the atmosphere buzzed with energy, creating a lively and enjoyable ambiance that added to the celebratory mood. The extensive space allowed for a comfortable dining experience, even amidst the large number of patrons. The service was commendable, ensuring a seamless and pleasant celebration. The culinary offerings were a gastronomic delight, with an array of Italian dishes that tantalized the taste buds. Overall, this restaurant provides not just delicious food but also an inviting and celebratory atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to mark special occasions or simply indulge in a vibrant dining experience.”
“We met friends there we haven't seen in 6 mos (we r from prescott az) & the waitress was so patient. We were there 3 hrs. Food excellent! Everyone enjoyed their meals. Asian salad, jambalaya & salmon.”
“By far our favorite Thai restaurant! Some of our faves are - Massaman Curry, Pad Thai, Fried Rice, Pad See Ew, Vegetable Curry Puffs and Wonton Soup. We usually do pick-up and it's always friendly service.”
“The best banana pudding you’ll ever have. Recipe is his grandmothers and he’s a super nice guy. I tried lots of flavors and they were all amazing. My favorite had to be the original banana pudding though. Must try!!”
“The food and quality are super good here. It’s a fast casual place in the food court. The flavors are on-point. We had the phish bowl, Cali burrito, and tacos de papas.”
“Love this place. I have gone a few times and each time has been a good experience. Went at night and they only had one server at the time and she was doing it all. Serving drinks and food. Props to her. Atmosphere is great. Drinks are affordable, and the food is good.”
“Came here during their happy hour and they offer some pretty good deals. Got their mastiff fries, Brussels sprouts, and smash burger slider. Each of these were $5. They also offer $5 off all their whole pizzas. Took advantage of this and ordered their That's My Boy pizza. Suuuuuper good. Comes with pepperoni, ricotta cheese, jalapeño, honey, and red sauce. The balance of spiciness and sweetness is perfect. I noticed they had a bunch of beers on draft so it would be a great place to chill and have some drinks, too.”
“Every time I go to Chick-fil-A the food is hot and fresh. There's plenty of staff around and they seem happy as a result. The lobby is always clean even when there's a huge line or a lot of customers. I always get my food in time. The owner of the location even came up to greet my family on a few different occasions. You won't find quality and service like this anywhere else.”
“This restaurant is in downtown La Mesa seriously amazing. Probably the best burger I've ever had. I got to be the last burger before they sold out. it was so juicy but honestly this sauce they put on top has like southwest flavoring, and they have roasted poblano peppers on top of the burger. So much flavor but not falling apart. This place is clean, nice and the most accommodating staff. The owners were there and took care of us personally. It's definitely worth the line.”
“Great spot for coffee and lunch. I know a lot of reviews say it's a great place to work from, I have to say I disagree. This is an awesome coffee shop and it has wifi, but it also plays screamo/hard rock music which isn't the most conducive for working and they only allow laptops at certain tables. Will definitely be back but sans laptop.”
“I’ve been enjoying their monthly $6 Patron Margaritas. They are good and only $6.We all enjoyed our meals. Two people got the steak, with mashed potatoes and broccoli.I got the fajitas with shrimp and meat. My meat was a little stiff.Our server was very friendly and service was timely.”
“Every single time that I've gone here they screwed my order up every single time but yet I somehow seem to still come back I think it's because of the french ”
“Quick and friendly service. Everything listed in the receipt was given. They have 3 self-serve kiosks to order your food. And good thing because people ordering at the register take a while.Service would've been quicker if other customers weren't so slow at picking up their food or apparently unaware of what they ordered.Parking: Parking can go either way since there's a Chick-fil-A in the same lot, where their drive-thru passes. But the time I went, I quickly found a spot.”
“Wanted to try something new. This gem in downtown LaMesa is excellent!!! From the chips and salsa to the beef tacos and enchiladas. This place is authentic and a must try. We will most definitely be back sooner than later!!!”
“Nothing is perfect they say but Brigantine is close. The only thing that I'm not cool with are mob scenes. Well Taco Tuesday is elbow to elbow Be prepared to be social and party like 1999 because the $7 Happy Hour menu is a party. I've been coming here since 1999 so I partied! with oyster shooters, calamari and shrimp cocktail Margaritas weren't the buzz. Stick to wine!!”