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    La Puerta

    4.4 (593 reviews)
    ModerateMexican
    Open 9:00 am - 11:00 pm
    Updated 2 weeks ago

    La Puerta Photos

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    LA PUERTA ATMOSPHERE

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    Casual
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    Recommended Reviews - La Puerta

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    Street tacos - carnitas, carne asada, pastor
    Emily V.

    This restaurant has great ambiance and is a good choice if you're looking to go out for a nice dinner. I got the street tacos plate with pastor, carne asada, and carnitas. The carne asada was my favorite out of the three. I'm knocking down a star because the carnitas were pretty mushy and bland. If you like spice, ask them for their habanero hot sauce! It has a major kick so a little goes a long way. I also ordered the chips and guac which came with a huge bowl of house made tortilla chips and huge dollop of guac on top. This was some of the best guac I've ever had so I recommend this as a starter for the table.

    Pastor quesadilla
    Joey D.

    Let me start off by saying this is the best Happy Hour that my wife and I have had so far in San Diego. 3-5pm every day 50% off all their alcohol to include their cocktails and their appetizers and quesadillas. We got our customary classic Old Fashioneds and they were definitely delicious. My wife then got a Mezcal Old Fashioned and it was surprisingly delicious. The bartenders were very attentive, gracious, and fun to be around. We then got our food which was 50% off because of the happy hour. We got cochinita tostaditas, carne asada quesadilla, and pastor quesadilla. The portions were just right. All 3 items were very delicious! The restaurant/bar was full and the atmosphere was very pleasant. We've been here a few times and will continue to return!

    Weekend HH Quesadillas (half off)
    Jonathan Z.

    Solid Weekend Happy Hour at La Puerta in Mission Hills! Friendly and fast service, great outdoor ambiance, and yummy half-off bites. They have a good selection of cocktails, including some with carrot, some with Olive juice, but our go-to is the spicy marg with Mezcal, all half-off. Quesadillas, cute flautitas (mini rolled tacos), chips and Guac all round out a perfect little meal. Def added to the Rolodex for weekend Happy Hours in Mission Hills.

    Rohith V.

    We came by this spot since we were craving some Mexican cuisine after hitting up the little Italy farmers market earlier in the day. We came with a pup and this place was listed as dog friendly. The staff were kind and accommodating and even gave our pup some treats and he was behaving well. We ordered a couple of drinks to start off - a margarita and another (I forget the name but it was purple) we got it with salted rims and I'm not sure if they accidentally mixed a bunch of it in because these were the saltiest drinks I've ever had - tasted like I was drinking straight salt water. The server was kind enough to replace these with another drink sans salt rim and those drinks were a lot better. The food itself was solid. The rice and beans didn't hit as much and the rice was on the dryer side. The salsas, tacos, and burrito all hit the mark.

    Jessica P.

    La Puerta has one of the best happy hours--and it's daily, which is a huge plus! Drinks and appetizers are half off, making it such a great deal. Highly recommend the Purple Haze (a sangria margarita) and the steak quesadilla. Also, don't forget to ask for the complimentary chips and salsa! Great vibes, great prices--definitely a go-to spot.

    Carne asada quesadilla with chipotle crema
    Jenifer B.

    Went here for lunch and the service was quick and efficient. Staff was great and the food was solid but I wish you didn't have to pay extra for sauces. The restaurant itself is super cute. We got: - Carne asada quesadilla: 8/10 my boyfriend got this and said it was good - Surf 'n' turf tacos especiales: 8/10 the steak and shrimp on this were cooked well. I wish there was more flavor to it but it was overall well made - Guacamole: 9/10 this was delicious! Probably my favorite part of the meal

    Papas Fritas and signatures menu
    Simeko O.

    La Puerta is a delicious eatery serving tacos, burritos, and all-around good vibes in Mission Hills. They also have another location downtown. We visited the Mission Hills spot and had a really great experience. I ordered the surf and turf one-pound burrito, and it did not disappoint. It had a nice kick of spice and was easily big enough to share or take half home for another meal later, which I definitely recommend. The drinks were well-made, the staff was friendly and welcoming, and the overall atmosphere makes it a fun spot for a night out with friends or even a casual date. Definitely recommend La Puerta. This place is seriously delicious.

    Cocktails
    Ryan C.

    Stopped by here on Sunday for their happy hour (yes, even on weekends!) and had a super fun time. Started as two of us but had a bunch of friends join us through our time there, and the servers/hosts were all super accommodating with extra chairs and eventually moving us to a larger table. Food for happy hour is half off all of their alcohol plus half off the starters and quesadillas too. This is really a great deal, one that we will definitely be back for. The guacamole, flautitas, and shrimp ranchero quesadilla were the standouts for me - but honestly everything was delish. Vibes were good - good music playing, good mix of people throughout...and it was pretty full!

    Carne Asada quesadilla, shrimp tostaditas, margaritas
    Julia R.

    What a fun, happy hour spot! They're happy hour deals included half off all drinks, and a discount on their appetizers in quesadillas. Food was amazing, and drinks were super tasty, I got there a couple minutes before 4:30, and half hour ended at five. They did come around multiple times prior to happy hour ending, and made sure that everybody put in their last chance orders. I love the aesthetic of this restaurant, and the servers are also attentive and kind. I would totally come back! Food was delicious and really hit the spot

    Carne Asada Quesadilla, chicken tacos
    Canary H.

    Went here on a whim because the restaurant we had intended to go to was closed. The exterior was cute, and we were seated quickly. The girl seated us was very expressionless, and we couldn't tell if she had seats for us or not. We went in and were delighted with the decorative interior, extensive beer wall, and music themed menus. The server was quick with our food and was lovely. She brought everything we needed and checked in with us. Quesadillas were decent, but the selling point was how they cooked the carne asada. Tacos, chips, and cocktails were okay. Beer was cold and tasty. Nothing special worth noting and I don't think I'll be passing by again. Somethings were pricier than others, but being in this area, it's expected. It was very loud inside. But yes. Nothing exceptional that would make me drive down again.

    Ghina P.

    We went to Mission Hills for a pop-up Christmas experience restaurant but the line was ridiculous. Instead we went to La Puerta and I'm glad we did. The place is super cute and it's has Christmas decorations up. We took advantage of the Tavo Tuesdays deals. Our server, Shawn, is fantastic. He was very cheery since we walked in, made great recommendations and checked on us often, even when it got a bit busier. To start we ordered the refriend beans and it was great and super hot (which I love). For Taco Tuesdays they have $3 street tacos. The pollo asado, carnitas, and shrimp were great options. I got a Paloma that was very refreshing and their tequila flight (as pictured). I'm not sure what tequila brand is used for the flight but it was smooth. Overall it was a great first time experience and I will certainly go back.

    Cali burrito
    Jada N.

    BOMB. Service was great. Watched the world cup, had a few drinks, and ate this delicious California burrito. The restaurant has a lot of great energy! The drink menu is cute too -- all the drinks are named after different songs. Can't wait to come back.

    Queso fundido
    Angie B.

    Good late night happy hour with half off appetizers and quesadillas. Loved my carne asada quesadilla and the queso fundido was really good as well. Cocktails were good too. Our waiter was awesome and very knowledgeable on drinks. Really spacious layout. Rock themed which is fun. Street parking only.

    Pollo Burrito and Carnitas California Burrito

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    Review Insights

    2 years ago

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    2 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Hailey P.

    Hailey P.

    Thanks for the review Michelle - it was dinner and a show that night!!

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    3 months ago

    Food is amazing every time! [[HIGHLIGHT]]Great service and great ambiance.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Their tacos and street dogs are incredible

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    Hailey P.

    Thank you Madeline !!

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    3 months ago

    Do yourself a favor and come when Nick B is working, he's the best bar tender!!!!!!!!

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    Hailey P.

    We agree ! We love us some Nick B!!

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    3 months ago

    This was a great find! Great food, marvelous service. The carne asada burrito was perfect.

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    Hailey P.

    Thanks Sam !

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    7 months ago

    The tacos were delicious, the service was excellent, and the atmosphere was fantastic. I truly recommend it.

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    1 year ago

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    9 months ago

    Love their happy hour drinks and apps! Always a vibe and usually wait isn't too long.

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    Page 4 of 15

    Ask the Community - La Puerta

    Do you have any Taco Tuesday Specials?

    What does your Happy Hour include?

    I just called, 50% off appetizers, quesadillas, and bar drinks.

    Are we allowed to make reservations for a party of 8?

    No reservations- just come on in!

    Do you take reservations?

    We've always just walked in and had no problem. I've also never seen a empty table with a "reserved" sign on it.

    Do you have Taco Tuesday deals?

    $3 street tacos, tj dogs, and Tecate starting at 3:00

    Are all drinks half off during happy hour?

    Yes

    Do you have vegan options?

    I checked the menu and decided to call and ask since I wasn't 100% clear. The gentleman on the phone said there are not very many options available. Things can be adjusted and they can make it work but it's limited with most items containing cheese… 

    Can I reserve space for a large party?

    Email full details to HP@lapuertasd.com to request

    Can I order tacos a la carte?

    Yes

    When is your Happy Hour?

    3-5 daily

    The online menu says "must be 21 yrs of age after 3pm". So family can't eat dinner there?

    That’s only for our downtown location - mission hills has no age restrictions. However, if you’re downtown under 21 may eat on out patio

    Do you offer a gluten-free menu?

    Our tacos are served on corn tortillas which are gluten free. The marinade and sauces are gluten free as well. The chips, tostaditas, and flautitas have a very small amount… 

    Do you have a happy hour?

    Yes everyday 3-5

    View All 16 Questions

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    Five stars all the way!!! Amazing food, fresh chips and salsa oh and service that cares the taco…read moreplate was full of flavor and the portions were spot on! Everything tasted good

    I'm so mad about this place!! Hubby and I headed down to SD…read moreto get away from the heat in the OC. On the drive, I decided I wanted Mexican food. I picked a place off Google but when we landed there we were not comfortable stopping to park, so we looked again and decided to check out La Puerta not realizing it was in the Gaslight District. I am not a fan of the Gaslight District, which is why I am so mad!! I'm going to HAVE to go back to the Gaslight District!! The food was AMAZING!! I HIGHLY recommend the Potato Flautitas. It's the kind of dish I'm going to dream about, I'm salivating now just thinking about them. I also did the Pick 3 Street Tacos (and actually ordered a 4th). The Ranchero Shrimp and Grilled Veggie were top notch. The Conchinita was recommended by our waiter, and it was interesting, tasty but different. It could have used a little more pickled onion. The only one I would not recommend (shockingly, I thought it would be the easy pass) was the carne asada. It was too greasy. My husband ordered a carne asada quesadilla and said the same, it was too wet and soaked through the tortilla. But there were no many other delightful options, I would say just don't go traditional. But honestly my favorite thing on the plate was the side dish rajas con crema, seriously, that alone is going to drag me down to the Gaslight District. I'm even considering going to a Padres game just for the excuse. I'm salivating again! As for our waiter, Colin, he was fantastic. Very informative, made great suggestions and seemed genuinely pleased by our satisfaction. He was smiling the whole time, friendly and stayed very present. I highly recommend you get yourself through the door at La Puerta and sit down for a meal ASAP. (We ate the food so fast I forgot to take pictures.)

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    Restaurant
    Chicken with fried cheese tacos
    Chicken with fried cheese tacos
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    Quixote is connected to the side of the Lafayette hotel in a deconstructed church with stained…read moreglass, heaven and hell rooms. Super dark and I mean dark, it'll take a minute for your eyes to adjust. Tapas style menu, we were a party of 4 and ordered: Squash blossom Relleno - it's the flower part of a squash plant and stuffed with mushroom duxelles which resembles a meat mixture with squash succotash. Outside is a corn tempura with a tomato base sauce. Pulpo-grilled octopus, one of the best texture and perfectly grilled skin with a chewy yet soft interior. The sauce has a slight kick and crunch from the corn nuts. Crab corn doughnut- this is their specialty and we were about to skip out but glad we didn't. The brioche bun had a donut batter with lumps of crab salad and corn mixture on top. El Festin- perfect for our party of 4 because it was a platter full of 4 Cheese quesadilla, 4 shrimp, 4 chicken slices, 1 jalapeño bacon wrap, ribeye. Flan-we should have each ordered one ourselves! Great flavors and texture, the top had ancient chocolate soil and had crispy corn nuts. Different but yummy. Overall, delicious food that came out so quick, great ambiance, we celebrated our birthdays and were each gifted candles with our names on the label. Truly amazing from beginning to end. Street parking only. The spots on the same block are metered but if you drive down to the second street towards residential, it's free.

    We popped in for a drink and the place was jammin. It's decor is quite nice and the atmos was…read moreenergetic. We we're not greeted at the dire so we wandered over to the bar and luckily found two seats. This is not your ordinary bar. We both wanted a gin and tonic and they have five gins.... None of which I have heard of which is amazing. I tried the prickly pear gin and wowee... superb. A little sweeter than normal but a delight. The bartender was nice and the drinks enjoyable.

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    Dramatic dining space!
    Dramatic dining space!
    Chamoyada dessert, the mango sorbet was the highlight!
    Chamoyada dessert, the mango sorbet was the highlight!
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    Cocina de Barrio

    Cocina de Barrio

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    It's very rare that I find an upscale Mexican restaurant that I absolutely LOVE... but Cocina de…read moreBarrio completely won me over. I was in town looking for a good brunch spot and came across Cocina de Barrio on Yelp. The food looked delicious, but let me tell you... it tasted like home. You know that scene in Ratatouille when the food critic takes that first bite and is instantly transported back to his childhood? That was me. The sauces, the flavors, the textures... everything was absolutely magnificent. It was honestly so hard to choose what I wanted. I would happily pay extra for a buffet here! Hint, hint! I ordered the Oaxaqueño Breakfast, with nopales (cactus) cooked into the eggs with salsa, paired with refried beans and potatoes. Can we just take a moment to give some serious compliments to the chef?! Every bite was packed with flavor. I also paired my breakfast with a Café de Olla, and I loved that it wasn't overly sweet. I enjoy my cafecito, and this one was just right. The ambience is colorful, vibrant, and beautifully filled with greenery, which made the whole experience even better. everyone was very welcoming and friendly Overall, Cocina de Barrio was such a wonderful find. I'm already looking forward to coming back and trying more dishes the next time I'm in town. 10/10 -- my taste buds definitely felt at home.

    Wow! What a great spot. The happy hour is seriously one of the best around, with awesome drink…read morespecials and delicious tacos that are hard to beat! Everything was fresh, flavorful, and the prices made it even better! The service was fantastic and the whole place had such a fun, lively vibe. A SPECIAL SHOUTOUT TO THEO, who greeted everyone with a huge smile and made us feel welcome from the moment we walked in. He was an awesome bartender-friendly, energetic, and made the experience even more enjoyable. If you're looking for great tacos, tasty drinks, amazing happy hour deals, and a fun atmosphere, this place is definitely worth checking out. Can't wait to come back!

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    Cocina de Barrio
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    Coasterra

    Coasterra

    4.0
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    My new favorite spot in San Diego!…read more I had no idea Reuben E. Lee was gone and this beautiful venue replaced it! I am so glad! This visit we stuck to the Happy Hour menu for food, but the main menu looked so tasty! The margarita very strong and had too much ice, but the wine was tasty! The chips, salsa and guacamole were wonderful and the guacamole was a hearty portion - well worth the cost. The ceviche was just okay, it was packed with what should have been delicious ingredients and in the end it was pretty tasteless. The service was A+ and the view, well there are no words.

    This location is definitely an upscale Mexican vibe, and I thoroughly enjoyed my experience here…read more For apps, we shared the calamari and Tempura Jalapeno-Cilantro cauliflower. I loved the cauliflower app. It was well seasoned, and had a good crunch to it. Calamari was good as well. But I highly recommend cauliflower app over calamari. For main course, I got the tempura Mahi Tacos. They were very filling and had a very subtle spicy kick in the tacos. Overall, the food was good for upscale Mexican-esque food. Service was excellent as well. Our waters never ran empty and after apps, they gave us new napkins to set our forks and knives down while they took our small plates away. They even offered to give us a new set of forks and knives. I think it is small details like this that make a difference. The most prominent detail I really liked about this location was the ocean view. We made a reservation for outdoor seating, and had an amazing view of the ocean and sunset. Parking was a little difficult. There's only one row for free self parking, but it is very limited. They offer $10 valet which I had to do because I could not find any parking. Overall, I enjoyed my experience here. Because this restaurant is a more high-end / upscale restaurant, I would recommend this location more for a special occasion or date night rather than a casual place to eat.

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    Located on Harbor Island, Coasterra offers stunning views of the San Diego Bay, downtown skyline and Coronado Bridge.
    Located on Harbor Island, Coasterra offers stunning views of the San Diego Bay, downtown skyline and Coronado Bridge.
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    Main dining room

    La Puerta - mexican - Updated August 2026

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