Ortega Restaurant San Diego

Ortega's was the first restaurant I ate at with my partner, now of six years. Whenever we're back in San Diego, whether for business or pleasure, we always have dinner at least once at Ortega's. The baja style lobster, plantain crusted Huachinango, enchilladas, tacos, ceviche.EVERYTHING, is always spot on delicious. Ortega's brings a creative and thoughtful hand to the dishes you know and love. It can be a bit pricey as Mexican food goes, but the quality makes it worth your money. The bar is terrific, and I love that they present, not only the typical margaritas (which are very good), but also often overlooked Latin American favorites like the Pisco Sour and Caipirinha. The atmosphere is cozy, and while bright and colorful, blessedly lacks the slap-dash hyperkinetic color palette of too many Mexican restaurants. Ortega's is tasteful and welcoming, whether you sit at the bar, near a roaring fireplace, in a snug booth, or in one of the larger dining rooms. Service is also quick, attentive, and friendly. If you live in the University District, and Ortega's isn't already among your go-to favorites, it should be. If you're just passing through, it's very much worth a visit. It certainly keeps us coming back again and again!