Quick trip back home ALWAYS includes a stop at Maritza's! Always great to see Carmen and family! BEST SALSA EVER! Have tried to get the recipe...but sadly it is a very guarded recipe! So this trip I did the next best thing....got a T-shirt to take back to Utah with me! Best Mexican food in Clairemont! read more

Maritza's Mexican Food - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

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Maritzas!!! I have been coming here for over 20 years! My daughters grew up going here too. Carmen always remembers us when we go in even though we moved several years ago whenever we come to town and go she still remembers us. She has the best memory! My youngest daughter always requests that Maritza's be our first stop when we get into town. She loves the one little tortilla chip they put on the beans :) Walking through the doors is so nostalgic- it hasn't changed really in all these years but that's why we love it so much I think. It just puts a smile on your face when you walk in and see the menu board & Carmen at the cash register :) Their rice & beans are so different than most Mexican places but so delicious & light. They only take cash & can have a bit of a wait - lots of people call in their orders & come pick it up. Def worth whatever the wait is! This past time we were there we were talking about what we would do if we came back and they had closed :( Praying Maritza's never closes!! read more

Maritza's Mexican Food - Shredded chicken tacos & burrito with their rice and beans - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

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This is HANDS DOWN the best restaurant, not just the best Mexican restaurant in San Diego. Do not miss the opportunity to eat here! You come into this little spot, clean as can be, and you are greeted by Carmen. The menu is on the wall. The taquitos are wonderful! Don't forget the guacamole! Wednesday is carnitas day! Enjoy is all I can say, and think of me when you are there! read more

This is a family go to spot of ours. This place has never failed us. Absolutely amazing customer service you can tell they love doing what they do. The food quality is always amazing as well. i would recommend this place to absolutely anyone. reading the negative comments is so disappointing because they have nothing to do with the food or customer service. i seen a comment about the stairs and no handicap parking... i feel like people these days will find anything to complain about. This restaurant and people who run it deserve nothing but praise and appreciation. Thank you !! read more

My family and I have been going to Maritza's over 30 years! This family restaurant is truly the BEST Mexican food in San Diego!! Carmen and her family are the kindest people. The rolled tacos taste just like my Mom's. I buy the salsa by the pint and cannot get enough of it. I have brought many friends here over the years and after I do, I cannot tell you how many times I have heard "Can we go to Maritza's again?!?". Thank you to Carmen and family!! read more

Maritza's Mexican Food - Special A Chicken (3 chicken rolled tacos, beans and rice with a side of chips. - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

The food here is some of the best Mexican food I've had in my 7 years of being in San Diego! The portions are pretty fair for the amount. It's a family owned business of about 40 years and you can tell they are a staple in the neighborhood. People have there weekly visits here and you can see the excitement in their face for the upcoming meal. It's a small shop with some patrons picking up food to go and others sitting down with their kids. Looking forward to getting the carnitas on Wednesdays. Most importantly it is CASH ONLY read more

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Tucked in the corner is a little Mexican restaurant that I was truly disappointed in. There's no handicap entrance first off and the steps leading up to store are very steep. I go out to get food and do take out and this is the first ever establishment I've ever been to that ONLY accepts cash AND DOES NOT have an ATM. It truly was disappointing as this is such a highly rated place that turns down customers with no cash. If you're going to do cash only, accommodate for the customers who only use card by having an ATM. They directed me to the liquor store which I wouldn't trust using. read more

Favorite local mexican spot. Exceptional service and food. Family owned and operated! read more

Maritza's Mexican Food - Menu December 2025 - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

Food tasted very authentic. Huge bean and cheese burrito and the carne asada taco was well seasoned and meat was tender. Maritza's service was very friendly and helpful. Best Mexican foods for us. read more

We finally had a chance to check out this neighborhood spot. Service was great, and very welcoming. The Chile Relleno was good but soggy due to the sauce. The carne asada and chimichanga was good as well. Everything in our opinion would have been better if there were a variety of salsa to choose from to enhance the dishes. We given 1 kind and was told it was the hottest, however, for us it was more on the mild to medium side. So if you're looking for a Mexican place that is basic and straightforward with its flavor, this is the place for you. read more

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This is my first time here and I will CERTAINLY be back! I got the #1 beef tacos with rice and beans , as well as a chicken taco. This is the most delicious home cooked meal I've had out in a long time. The shredded beef is amazing, the shell hot , fresh.... The rice and beans were FANTASTIC! So fresh, sooooo good.... By the way the SALSA WAS AMAZING AND HOME MADE!!!! I will say with confidence the best salsa I've ever had from a restaurant , certainly! And the woman working was extremely warm and nice to me as well as other patrons , and she made my day better. The feeling of a family restaurant with . I'm not from the immediate area but I will drive out of the way to come back here. Classic food that I hope never changes!! It is seriously life changing. read more

Maritza's Mexican Food - Outside - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

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This is a great local no frills delicious taco shop. They don't have an online presence, and it was hard for me to order ahead, so here is their latest paper menu for your enjoyment. Very friendly people and very delicious food. The California burrito is top notch. read more

Maritza's Mexican Food - Menu - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

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This place is definitely a hole in the wall. I been here about three months ago and forgot to review and remembered this place. Food is fresh and tasty. They use curly fries for the California burrito and adds a great taste. The cashier is very welcoming and polite. They have plenty of seating for indoor dining. I will be coming back much sooner! read more

Maritza's Mexican Food - California Burrito - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

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Wow, I haven't had curly fries in forever! These were good, although the meat was a bit dry. We also ordered a chicken taco (came in a fried shell), a couple of fish tacos (came in a flour shell wrap), and a carne asada taco (also flour shell). Be aware that these are regular sized tacos, not those boutique-y small ones so we definitely over ordered. They are cash only. Plentiful free parking in the lot. read more

Maritza's Mexican Food - Carne Asada Fries - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

This little place tucked away is outstanding. The food was very good and they have homemade hot sauce. The beef burrito was full of meat and only meat. Combine that with the hot sauce and it tasted phenomenal. The lady at the counter was very nice and patient with us. She brought out our food to the table. If you're looking for a kick back Mexican restaurant this is it. read more

My family has been coming here for over 30 years, and it's never once disappointed. The food is consistently a 10 out of 10 -- hands down the best authentic Mexican food in San Diego. The flavors, the quality, the atmosphere... it all keeps us coming back. A true local gem! Can't forget to mention it's family owned and they are truly the nicest people ever. read more

Visited this restaurant today, I used to come frequently 10 years ago. I bought my workes lunch, 3 carne asada burritos about $15 each. My workers and I laughed! As they were mostly Flour tortilla, probably less then half cup of actual meat! Burrito size of a flauta/taquito. My bean and cheese burrito was also a joke. Beans super waterty as they are not actually refried beans, maybe bean soup. Should not be put in a burrito, common sense... floppy bean and cheese taquito. Point is, Extremely over priced for what you get... as a cook, and Mexican this is unacceptable read more

Awesome local find for some family owned quality Mexican food. Had the California burrito which was prepared in about 10 mins, served with homemade salsa, and was super tender and flavorful--packed with meat. Remember to bring cash! The staff were super friendly and welcoming and the food is affordable and really flavorful. Would reccomend stopping by if in the area, it's a great local family owned find! Lots of people order takeout but there are a few tables inside to sit as well! read more

As a SD native ive had my fair share of taco shop meals. Hands down my favorites! Chicken soft tacos are my go to, but everything is bomb. Salsa is bomb! You can tell by the flavor all the ingredients have time put into them. read more

like being at home. food so fresh and so tasty love the lady's there only place i'll go for some reall good mexican food !All 3 of above. food service ambiance read more

Only accepts cash but that's ok, I save all of mine for this place. Always delicious!

They have the best, freshest Mexican food that I have had in San Diego and I have lived her for almost 40 years!!!! It is all homemade and so delicious!! read more

I love Maritza's! They use curly fries in their Cali burrito/carne asada fries and it is absolutely legendary! Everyone is so kind, and while they only have one salsa option, they don't need another. My favorite Mexican food spot in San Diego! read more

I haven't eaten here in years but I was craving chili rellanos so I decided to go pick up some from Maritza's. I am so glad I did. They were delicious and made perfectly. The rice and beans were wonderful unlike many places where the rice is dry. The beans are refried and went perfectly with my chilies. The place was busy at 3:30 pm on a Saturday, so I did have to wait a bit for my order but it was made fresh and hot. Will return soon for more. read more

5 Stars - Worth the Drive, Every Time Maritza's Mexican Food is the kind of place you don't just eat at--you return to. Again and again. Everything is cooked with intention. It's a family-owned spot that truly knows its regulars, and people like me come from far just to get a bite. Wednesday is carnitas day--get there early, because once they're out, that's it. And trust me, you want those carnitas. No frills, just flavor. It's a 6-table taco shop, but you'll be served like family. No need to dress up or head to a big restaurant--this is where the real magic happens. Cash only, salsa has a serious kick (you've been warned), and the food? Incredible read more

Bottom line up front...good, fresh Mexican food in a convenient location with no frills. Of note...they only take cash. The food was tasty. Basic but authentic Mexican ... I had the chicken taquitos and they were cooked perfectly - tender chicken with extra crispy rolled tortilla. My husband got the tostada and enchilada combo. He enjoyed both although did think the rice could use some seasoning. The salsa has a really spicy kick...didn't see there was option for mild but I liked the kick so didn't ask :). Service was friendly and efficient. This is a no frills place with good food at decent prices. read more

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Insanely good! I couldn't believe how piping hot the burrito was. The carne asada was seasoned to perfection, and the guacamole and salsa were super fresh and delicious. I ordered them on the side and I loved how they gave me a decent amount of both. The burrito tasted authentic and homemade, I loved it and will definitely be back. Customer service was friendly too! read more

We were just in the area and were looking for something small to snack on before meeting family for dinner. Our friend suggested Maritza's Mexican Food Restaurant. Boy howdy! This small mom and pop shop is legit!!! Not only is it good, but easy on the pocketbook! A true gem find... We had the 3 beef rolled tacos with guacamole, lettuce, and cheese. Ooooh my goodness!! It was nice and crispy on the outside and moist inside. Good flavor. This is a cash only place. They do have an ATM machine if you didn't remember to bring cash. I suggest bringing cash since their ATM might be a fee if not in your bank network. The people were super nice and helpful. They have a shared parking lot with other businesses in the area. We will be coming back for other menu items when in the area. read more

Maritza's Mexican Food - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

Fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and generous portions make every dish a winner. Try the combo plate - tender carne asada, juicy chicken, and savory beans. Impeccable service and warm atmosphere. Hands-down, my new favorite Mexican spot! read more

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Have been coming here forever. Tried everything, fabulous tacos, burritos, enchiladas, sopes, chimichangas, carnitas on Wednesday's( order ahead they run out). Service is stellar, call ahead, wait on hold and bring cash! Smaller seating area that is usually nearly full. Pick anything you will love it. Ooh the homemade salsa can have a kick but you'll want more. read more

Super clean taco shop with an inviting atmosphere! I ordered a burrito, and it was absolutely amazing--flavorful, fresh, and perfectly made. You can tell this place takes real pride in their cooking. Definitely worth a visit if you're craving great tacos or burritos! read more

Well Finally getting to try this Mexican Restaurant and Parking is no problem located in Clairemont and there is plenty of parking . Well as we walk in the lady behind the counter was nice and greeted us and asked if we're doing ok . Pretty good service now we look over the menu and I got the Carney Asada Burrito and the special Cheese Enchilada Plate which cost 9.20 and Carney Asada Burrito costs 11.50 now I have to say when we got home we noticed she did not give us any Forks or spoons and no napkins say what !! Before you pack up people order they should give you napkins and forks and spoons !! Well that is for how forget full she was !! So when you order to go make sure you check the bag for this before you go because you will be eating with your hands !! Well the restaurant was pretty clean inside and as for the food I would say it was pretty darn good !! So I do suggest you give this restaurant a try and enjoy !! I will return and enjoy again and hopefully she remembers the next time I stop by !!! read more

Maritza's Mexican Food - menus - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

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Solid family run Mexican spot that's not your drive- thru 24 hour kind. There is usually a wait for food because they're that busy. 30-45 min seems to be the average now so be prepared especially during lunch/dinner times. Love their salsa. It's has the perfect amount of kick, fresh tasting and on the healthy side since it's all veggies. I usually order the Cali burrito, crunchy taco or sometimes taquitos. We're spoiled here in SD with a plethora of Mexican joints, but this one is a consistently delicious. read more

Maritza's Mexican Food - Cali burrito and crunchy shredded beef taco - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

I wanted to try this place on a recommendation and boy was I disappointed - I ordered the rolled taco special ( it's a toquito people come on) and my friend got the beef quesadilla. BOTH of us got sick immediately - like idk if it was an off night or what but my stomach was not happy. The service was great and the prices were reasonable. The cash only Thing is annoying but there's an ATM at the liqour store at the end of the strip mall nbd - I really hope this was a fluke based on the reviews I was expecting much better food! read more

Small neighborhood Mexican place with everything homemade...nice family run business and everything tastes just wonderful! The cheese enchilada sauce is excellent and the chili rellenos are like Abuela makes. Friendly people and tons of regulars that they know and take care of! Service is good with everything prepared to order! I'm coming back soon! read more

Maritza's Mexican Food - Nice counter service and table delivery - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

Order the two crunchy chicken tacos with rice and beans. So simple it's so perfect. It came right out of the grease. The chips. Tacos were perfect. The salsa bowl they brought to my table was delightful and spicy. Giant fan This family is doing everything right read more

Checked this place out bc I wanted the last meal of my trip to be fish tacos. Found this place nearby and decided to give it a try! Upon entering it had a very homie, local, casual vibe. The lady at the counter (I'm assuming is the owner) took my order and I waited around 15 minutes for my fish tacos. Opening up tacos, they looked more like burritos tbh but no big deal. The fish tacos are grilled fish inside which I wasn't expecting. It was pretty good but had this spice inside that I was not expecting. Tacos came with rice and beans! Very filling, kind of long wait for the food, but would go again if you like grilled fish tacos! read more

Maritza's Mexican Food - Inside restaurant - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

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Introduction: Carmen was the daughter of the original owner of Carmen's Mexican Restaurant on Diane Ave. However, Carmen doesn't work at Carmen's. She grew up and opened her own Mexican restaurant on Mt. Acadia Blvd. Carmen named that one after one her daughters, Maritza. However, Maritza doesn't work at Maritza's; one of Carmen's other daughters does. Claro? OK, well anyway. Carmen's and Maritza's share one very special thing in common, and that's the best, most flavorful serrano-based salsa in town. Hands down. If you've never been to either place and had it (with pretty much anything you order), you really should. It's delicious and it's truly picante. Unless, of course, you're spicy-averse, in which case their salsa isn't for you. I go to Maritza's because it's closer to where I live, although I know there are different things on the menu at Carmen's (one of which is adobada, missing at Maritza's). It's been a staple for a good, fast (sort of) Mexican lunch or early dinner for me for a very, very long time. This is a small order-at-the-counter cash-only place with not too many tables, and it can get crowded at times (especially around noon and late afternoon). They get lots of take-out business. I have several really tasty favorites that I've kept coming back for over the years: Chorizo burrito; carne asada torta (on a real torta bun); chili relleno with beans (which also comes with a couple of their terrific home-made chips); cheese enchiladas; beef tamale; and the beef quesadilla supreme. I don't think the menu has changed in...decades? Except, of course, for the prices, which nevertheless are still among the lowest around for what you get, compared to others. My only complaint is that, for dine-in, they use the thinnest cheapest paper plates and the thinnest cheapest wax paper. When these get saturated with liquid, as they readily do, and you use a knife to cut, say, your huge quesadilla or the remnants of your massive burrito, you end up with wax paper mush and paper plate mush in your food. Liquid (like from the salsa) also soaks right through the plate and onto the table, even if the plate hasn't been cut through. You have to be very, very careful and try to avoid this, but even being careful, it's happened to me many times. read more

Hip hip hoooray!!! I checked my purse, I had money (which is rare, I just don't carry cash). Like I was saying, I had money and I headed to Maritza's Mexican Food!!! I can't think of any other place that Only Accepts Cash, but no matter my mouth was watering! The location is a bit tricky since this neighborhood is mostly homes, and a school, but don't let that sway you away, it's there. A tiny place with about 5-6 tables, then the front counter (where you order) and the cooks right behind. There are about 8 tiny businesses in this parking lot starting with a tap school, Maritza's, an alteration place and so on. I did not say I had a lot of money, but I had enough for 3 rolled beef tacos, with cheese on top, and a small container of sour cream and guacamole. Also, 2 small containers of salsa! Anytime I order rolled tacos I always ask to hold the lettuce and put cheese on top, but the rest on the side. I don't like my orders smothered in stuff! I put on whatever, and how much on my own. These tacos looked sort of small, but believe me they stuffed lots of meat inside, within a quarter inch from the edge! Very tasty, and with their salsa they were great for me. I dab them in the cream and guacamole and again tasty! After I finished the second one I was almost full, but I had to eat the third and now I won't be hungry for dinner! I wish I had margarita to wash it all down, but at a price of $6.41 I was a happy camper! There are so many items on the menu I want to try, so yes, I will be going back again! read more

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CASH ONLY! So happy I found this place! It's located in a quiet neighborhood, parking is easy, and they are so welcoming and sweet! I ordered the carne asada burritos based on so many reviews raving about it, and it was AMAZING. Price was very reasonable, and it was a very traditional burrito (I know burritos aren't necessarily traditional but what was in it was simple and delicious). It is on the smaller side but I think it's plenty. The salsa tasted so fresh and delicious. I also added churros and that was a perfect little dessert to add onto the meal. The quality was great- I noticed a lot of people ordering their soup while I was waiting for my food so that may be the next thing I try. read more

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