Food. Incredible. Drinks. Incredible. Service. Incredible. Atmosphere. Incredible. I'll definitely be back.

I went here with a girlfriend and had very high expectations. Unfortunately I found the food to be lacking in the bold flavors you would expect with Mexican cuisine. The overall ambiance is nice especially for happy hour or drinks at the bar. Service was prompt and courteous, but for the price of dinner I will not be back. read more

Amazing food, service, and ambience! Will definitely be coming back. Perfect for date night or girls night out!

I went for a restaurant with and the service was amazing, but the food was a major miss. The empanadas had no flavor. The crabcake had a ton of mayonnaise. And the beef was slices of beef floating in broth. See what they were trying to do, but the flavors were missing. read more

Opening night did not disappoint. Friendly staff greeted us and squeezed my husband and I in as a walk-in. We were walked through the menu and got several recommendations based in our preferences. Some of the best ceviche tuna tartar ive ever had! With large portions in these two "starter" dishes- although everything on their menu is recommended to be shared. The flavor was incredibly memorable. read more

Origen - New Mexican Cuisine Near Me - San Diego, California

My husband has been wanting to try this place and we were able to make reservations for last Thursday. The service was super nice. The layout is as beautiful as you see on Instagram but a lot smaller in real life. I would say the worst part about my experience was the noise, it is insanely loud in here. They have not mastered their Acoustics to ensure Nueces and bounce off the walls, I cannot even hear my husband across from me or what the server is sharing with us. The advertised as Mexican style restaurant although I feel like there's some Thai Asian fusion mixed in, I wasn't expecting that but the flavor palette definitely reflected some type of fusion and not complaining! I loved all of our dishes we tried! Definitely different than your typical and traditional Mexican style flavors. We ordered a variety of appetizers to including the short rib which was amazing! And I ordered the octopus as my main dish and loved it! Overall the food is definitely worth coming back, I just hope they can figure out something with the noise, it feels like you're in a club with how loud it is which is not ideal for an intimate dinner of any size. read more

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Amazing food, amazing service. Beautiful ambience. I'm in love with the flavors. Can't wait to come back read more

Origen - New Mexican Cuisine Near Me - San Diego, California

What a refreshing addition to this part of town! I love so much about this restaurant and have only one complaint. But that complaint doesn't warrant the removal of a star. Just hoping management takes the feedback and perhaps makes a change. The food is amazing--so fresh, delicious and beautiful. The ambiance is is equally as beautiful and chic. And the service is warm and knowledgeable. My only complaint is that I don't drink alcohol and asked for a mocktail (the margarita without the liquor) and I was charged full price--$16. It even listed "mocktail" on the receipt, so it wasn't an error. Feels like the removal of the most expensive ingredient warrants at least 1/3 less in cost. Just a suggestion! But overall, a lovely experience! read more

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Food was pretty good overall, but the service was honestly strange and disappointing. Our server seemed to think he was funny...at first it was amusing, but it quickly became too much and didn't translate into actually providing good service or creating any kind of dining experience. There was no guidance on the menu, no drink or food suggestions, and no explanation that most of the dishes are shareable tapas-style. When I asked about the flautas, he said he didn't know how to explain them but that they were "really good"... which wasn't very helpful. We ended up having to look at Yelp photos just to understand what we were ordering because he basically just took our order and left. There were also no water refills or check-ins, which made the experience feel inattentive. The food itself came out on time and was good overall, but my friends did not enjoy the salmon ceviche at all, and it seemed like it had been sitting out longer than it should have, another thing that wasn't caught or addressed. For the price point, especially with items like a $17 shrimp taco, we were hoping for more guidance and a more attentive, engaging experience. The food had potential, but the service really missed the mark. read more

Service & ambiance were excellent! We made reservations and went on a Tuesday night. It was a quiet evening. The restaurant is inviting for small and larger groups, a great pick for a date spot. The menu changes often & food is fresh. I really appreciated the large variety of gluten free items & seafood choices. We ordered the octopus, ceviche, salmon, and flautas. Food is good, not great. I wish the flavors were more bold & flavorful. The flavors tasted safe, satisfactory. read more

The wife and I went here on a Friday night. We made reservations in advance and got seated closest to the kitchen entrance. Not the ideal table for a couple on a date, but there was also no where else to sit. The owner/manager (seemed like he was) that was on duty took our order, super friendly guy and very charismatic. When interacting with him he has this deep voice he likes to use to make us laugh. The bar is very unique to Mexican beer and liquor. No Makers Mark here, just bottles from down south with a special Tequila bar menu. Food is very different from your normal Mexican food. The Tapas all have a nice presentation and the flavors are very decadent. If I had anything to complain about it would be that the music they were playing at the time had heavy bass that drown out the mids and treble. Kinda felt like you were listening to a club that was next door. Also the main entrance door and glass windows was opened so everytime a bus would stop at the light you would hear the brakes squeal. Its like that uncomforable sound when 100 silverware falls to the ground and makes that klinking noise. Over all I'd say you have to experience this place atleast once, but in my opinion the food is pretty pricey for what it is and I left the place still hungry. read more

WOW WOW WOW! This restaurant is bursting with heart and incredible flavor. If you're considering a visit, stop here--don't even glance at the menu. Just go there and enjoy the surprise of flavors and the warm, welcoming, and cool ambiance. The best way to describe Origen is "authentic." It's not one of those tourist trap pop-up spots you hear about on a reel just to be met with influencers and lack of flavor--Origen has the vibe of a hidden gem you'd discover while traveling. I highly recommend it to anyone eager to experience a fresh take on flavor, beautifully presented dishes, and a passionate, welcoming team of young, bright owners. Hearing the excitement and passion in their voices about life and their favorite dishes was truly heartwarming. The flavors? Absolutely mouth-watering. We were caught off guard by how amazing everything tasted and the great spice/heat! Anyone who rates this place less than five stars is crazy and missing the point of this incredible new spot. The restaurant just opened a month ago, and the chef and team are already killing it!! I'm already dreaming about our next visit to relive these amazing flavors. Please support this fantastic new spot--we need more heart-and-soul restaurants like this to thrive! We ordered (in order of our favorites): - Tartar de Atún - Flautitas de Atún Ahumado - Ceviche con Salmón - Tiradito de Res - Platano Flameado All of them were exceptional, and we can't wait to try more! Amazing job by this team to excite our palette and love for finding a new spot while traveling. read more

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Juan Pablo made our night unforgettable. He guided us through the menu with so much care and enthusiasm, and every recommendation was spot-on. We had the steak tartare quesadillas, octopus, the Pickle Michelada Agua Santa, and the Mescalero -- each one incredible and perfectly balanced. His service felt warm, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about the food and drinks. You can tell he takes pride in what he does. Truly one of the best dining experiences we've had in San Diego read more

Great happy hour with good service, drinks, and tacos everyday. Got here at 4pm on a Saturday and didn't need a reservation.

I went on an anniversary date, the service was amazing they make you feel welcome, the waitress are super helpful with everything. The food has a unique flavor super good, we had the salmon ceviche, the quesadillitas and the pulpo a la salsa macha. The drinks in my opinion can be a little bit better other than that everything is amazing. Jaron was my waitress super helpful he explained everything super good. read more

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Had a great experience overall. Bartender and server were really nice (bartender had a great sense of humor and had us laughing pretty hard a couple times). Service at the table was a little slow at times but we weren't in a hurry so it didn't phase us too much. Food was really good. There were 7 of us and we ordered a bunch of things to share and everything was great. Personally loved the aguachile and Cesar salad. Some dishes felt a little pricey for what we got on the plate but quality was high so we didn't feel jipped. We sat in the big cave booth which was comfortable but a bit loud at times since we're a loud group the sound really bounces around in there. It was pretty quiet when we arrived at 6:30 but by 7:30 the place was full and had a vibrant atmosphere. I look forward to going back. read more

I liked the ambiance here and the food tasted fresh. I went on a Wednesday night and they were busy but they seated us within 10 minutes. Our waitress was very attentive and super helpful when making the recommendations. The portion sizes were a little on the small side for me. If I was hungrier, I would have needed more to eat but this was just the right amount that night. I would come again. read more

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What a great experience! The food is amazing, super fresh ingredients, explosive flavors! The Tartar de Atun is a must try! The place is beautifully decorated, with a laid back but chic atmosphere, perfect for a night out with friends. Thank you Franco and Alexis for a wonderful and memorable experience, I'll definitely be back! read more

Absolutely blown away by this place. Origen feels like a little trip to Mexico City and Oaxaca -- elevated, creative, and full of soul. Every dish is layered with flavor and beautifully presented, but still feels comforting and real. The cocktails are incredible -- mezcal-based, fresh, and perfectly balanced -- and the service is warm and attentive without being over the top. You can tell there's a real passion behind what they do. I especially loved the tlayuda and the mole negro, both rich and full of depth, and the tuna tostada was perfection. The space is elegant but cozy, with great music and lighting that make it feel special without being pretentious. Definitely one of the best modern Mexican restaurants in San Diego -- authentic, artistic, and memorable. read more

The service and the food were both incredible. Apparently one of our waiters was part owner of the restaurant which shows the commitment they have to make this a good experience for their customers. I definitely recommend and the quesadillas is a must try! read more

Origen - The vibes - New Mexican Cuisine Near Me - San Diego, California

Every time a friend comes into town, we bring them here. The food and service are always amazing. Our server Tanis usually just orders for us, and every dish ends up being perfect. We always leave stuffed and very satisfied. The vibe inside makes for such a great evening too. 10/10 love this spot. read more

The service here is exceptional. They are currently in a soft opening stage and will open next week with an expanded menu. I came yesterday and had the green ceviche/aguachiles, shrimp cocktail, and the tuna tostada. My favorite was definitely the aguachiles. Second was the tuna tostada. I didn't really care for the shrimp cocktail. I thought the shrimp was too overcooked and firm, and the sauce it was in lacked flavor. I also didn't really love the seasoning on the tuna tostada. Despite all this the aguachiles was the best I've had. The best part of my dining experience was definitely the nice, laid-back and elegant ambiance coupled with the exceptional service provided by Miguel and Eduardo. They made me want to make this a spot I continue returning to and I hope that I will soon. read more

Franco was our server & he was lovely. The food was AMAZING. The staff is great. a 10/10 experience.

The food is different from any other place , well mixed flavors with the right amount of spice but without taking main flavors out . This is the delicatessen of Mexican dishes with outstanding design on every object of the restaurant , Superb service from young elegant gals and guys . read more

Origen - Inside main room - New Mexican Cuisine Near Me - San Diego, California

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First time at Origen and we loved our visit! The service was incredible and the dishes we tried were delicious! Will definitely be back!

This is one of the most underrated places in San Diego. Food is delicious, creative, solid ingredients. Vibe and atmosphere is energetic and fun. They put a lot of work into the menu. It's easy to want to just keep eating. Tequila selection is thought through...not too many choices but enough good ones you don't need more. Juan Pablo is fun and always takes good care of guests. Hosts are always friendly and don't have that weird snobby hostess vibe that is always confusing. Good food, quality ingredients, well thought out menu and great atmosphere. Now, I've ruined the secret but it's worth it if this place stays around! read more

I was so excited to find my new favorite restaurant but that was not what happened unfortunately. Had to pay $25 per person for the Valentine's Day reservation (not a big deal at all) but upon arriving on time, they were not prepared. We had to wait outside in the cold for 45 minutes to be seated which if we were 15 minutes late, our reservation would've been forfeited. Tried to stay positive, the workers were very kind and the inside was pretty. Next issue was there wasn't a single non alcoholic beverage option on the prefixed menu luckily they had a very delicious mocktail. But to my surprise, when the bill came, I had to pay extra for the mocktail? The audacity to not have a single NA option on the prefixed menu and then charge me for getting something I can actually drink is insane. Making it more expensive to not drink alcohol is hilarious. The food is good, but not anything to write home about whatsoever (chocolate dessert was good though) but looking at the prices of what we got on the regular menu, there's no reason to go back. Countless other places that you can get a much better meal and better customer service within a 5-10 minute drive. Had very high hopes but fell very, very short. read more

Origen - Pesca del día a la veracruzana Quesadillitas de short rib - New Mexican Cuisine Near Me - San Diego, California

Food, service and vibes were amazing! Everything we tried was really good! Can't wait to go back. read more

Origen - Aguachiles and leche de tigre - New Mexican Cuisine Near Me - San Diego, California

Amazing food. Great ambiance. Cesar, our server, was extremely attentive and personable. Oh and he's great at singing happy birthday. Gets the people going. read more

Incredibly fresh food. Highly suggest. Caesar is a riot, make sure you're in his section.

I really enjoyed my visit to Origen. The food was delicious, the restaurant was clean and inviting, and the service was excellent. Everything exceeded my expectations, and I look forward to coming back. read more

I ordered the quesadillas con mole and they were so delicious!! Ambiance is amazing, the drinks were unique and the aesthetic of the restaurant is definitely pic worthy. Manuel was excellent. read more

We had a reservation at Origen to celebrate our 15-year wedding anniversary--a special night for my pregnant wife and me. We just needed to push it by an hour. There were later time slots available, but incredibly, there's no way to contact the restaurant to ask for a change. There's no phone number, no email, and not even a messaging option through the reservation platform (Tock). Our only choice would've been to double-book and risk a no-show charge. For a modern restaurant with such a strong reputation, this felt surprisingly thoughtless. We never got to eat here, which is frustrating and disappointing. I hope the team reconsiders how they support guests, especially for meaningful occasions like this. A little flexibility and a way to communicate would go a long way. read more

Edgar hosted us for my wife's birthday and he made the dinner so special! He was kind and ensured we were well taken care of every minute. He even got us a sweet birthday dessert. The food was curated well and the ambiance was awesome. read more

My first time here!!! So yummy and really good service! The flautas were my favorite and i definitely recommend!

Origen was beautiful and super cozy! My husband and I went for a date night, and it was even better than we expected. As someone who loves seafood, I have to say the food and drinks were amazing. We ordered a Paloma and a whiskey--both were delicious and definitely on the stronger side . For food, we had the aguachile verde and ceviche de salmón--both packed with flavor and so fresh. Highly recommend if you're looking for a chill, romantic spot with incredible seafood and cocktails! Franco provided excellent customer service and made sure to answer all of our questions. The restaurant was clean and minimalistic--reminding me of Valle de Guadalupe, where the food and vibes are effortlessly elegant. read more

Origen - New Mexican Cuisine Near Me - San Diego, California

This is San Diego's best hidden secret. This place is INSANE! The food is fresh and the prices are excellent. Every single thing we ordered was incredible. The wine, drinks and tequila were all top notch. I have already set up my next dinner with a group here and we cannot wait to come back. 10/10 read more

Place is really lovely. Mezcalina for cocktail. Very yummy- and so were the 3 free ones a charming staff member gave to us. Speaking of staff, I would be curious if they require headshots to apply here. I would recommend designating someone in your group to be "celebrating a birthday". It will result in a musical performance from both front and back of house. Food was goood- but fr id leave ur man at home if u come here. read more

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Esta es auténtica comida Mexicana. Es de alta gama. El servicio fue excelente y el ambiente, muy bien pensado. Tanis, nuestra mesera, fue fantástica. Juan Pablo también estuvo allí, ofreciéndose su apoyo. Él y su hermano, Emmanuel, son geniales. Comimos: Agua de Chile, Flautitas de Marlín, Croquetas de Jaiba, Quesadilla de Costilla, Camones de Ajo con Chile. ¡Todos estos platillos estaban increíbles y no puedo decir que uno fuera mejor que el otro! Mi nuevo lugar favorito. ¡Quizás se convierta en un hábito! read more

Tried this place on a quiet night alone at the bar. It has unbelievable food. Went off the bar tenders recommendation and it didn't disappoint. I had the lobster taco and the carnitas. Incredible. Sebastian and Cesar were great hosts, thank you! read more