This restaurant is in OB is a treasure! The food is yummy, with lots of options for omnivores, veggies and vegans, the service is always great and the dining-in experience is cozy and comfortable. In our mind (our family) there couldn't be a better option for eating out or taking out great food. The restaurant business is tough, but I sure hope this one continues for many years to come. PS - If you like mole, I think you will love theirs! read more

I really wanted to like this place, but overall it was a bit disappointing. I came mainly for their extensive vegan and vegetarian menu. The staff was very friendly and welcoming, and they even recommended their most popular vegan burrito when I asked. Unfortunately, the burrito was underwhelming and just didn't taste good. I'm not sure if it was my choice or just an off day, but it missed the mark for me. It would have been helpful if the menu clearly highlighted popular items. I also ordered the tamarindo margarita, while it was strong, the flavor was below average. That said, the ambiance was lovely, colorful, aesthetic, and inviting, with cute outdoor tables that added to the overall vibe. read more

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My wife and her dad are vegetarian and vegan, respectively, and it's a challenge to find a restaurant that pleases the meat-eaters and non-meat-eaters. Thankfully, Hugo's has enough options to please all. The menu is gigantic (see attached photo) and it would take many visits to sample everything. I thought my fish tacos were good but not incredible (I was spoiled to fish tacos at Oscar's the night before!). Service was polite and they were very accommodating, especially given our party of 8! If you're vegan this may the place to eat in OB. If you're not vegan, it's still quite good, but not incredible. Solid 4-stars. read more

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Food was amazing starting with the chips and salsa and then the chicken tortilla soup and the Acapulco fish. They have sculpin on tap, but it would be good to have another west coast IPA. Maybe a Mexican one, such as Insurgente, which is a really good Mexican craft brewery. I am a chicken tortilla soup connoisseur and this place has one of the best. read more

Hugo's Cocina - Acapulco Fish - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

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Sat down not expecting too much but I was quickly greeted by one of the servers asking if I wanted chips. He then quickly brought out chips and salsa. When it came to my main meal I landed on the Chicken Enchilada with salsa verde and the carne asada taco which really blew me away. That would be my choice if I went again. The place was well decorated with very good service. I would rate the overall experience a 8 out of 10. read more

Hugo's Cocina - Chicken Enchilada and Carne Asada Taco - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

I came here with my family for brunch on Sunday. The restaurant was spacious and beautifully decorated. We sat at a table near the back, which gave us a nice sense of privacy. The service was friendly, and the staff checked on us often. The chips and salsa were really good and salsa flavorful. My dad and husband both ordered the Trio Enchiladas and enjoyed them. The rice and beans on the side were also tasty. As the only vegan in the group, I ordered the carne asada fries. Unfortunately, I was disappointed. The fries were soggy and not crispy at all. The dish felt dry and could have used some crema or beans for moisture and flavor. I wanted to love it, but it just didn't hit the spot. read more

Hugo's Cocina - Vegan Carne Asada Fries - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

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This restaurant is bigger than you might think! Once inside, there's a lot of tables and booths. We were promptly seated and greeted and provided chips and salsa. As you can walk in and order it sit down, it took a good while to get our order in. I almost thought they forgot about us - but as soon as I made eye contact with a team member - we flagged her down. The food is really good! We did a La carte on grilled fish tacos, a chicken enchilada with green sauce and a pineapple tamale. The a La Carte items are big! You don't even need rice and beans because I was stuffed! The grilled fish in the taco was a great portion size and it was piled with cabbage, veggies etc. The chicken enchilada was really good! The green sauce - yum! Big enchilada! The pineapple tamale I wanted to try because I hadn't seen it before. It was good - the sweetness makes it like a dessert tamale. I think I would prefer a meat one next time. All in all - solid food, big portions! read more

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Fantastic vegan Mexican food! Huge portions, quick service and insanely large menu. Great area very walkable; huge inside seating area and great for large groups or a quick bite before a concert. Amazing prices - tons of food and great servings for the cost! read more

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I ate here with 2 friends who ordered a carne asada burrito and a taco enchilada combo plate. I ordered a fish burrito. The food arrived and and we began to eat. My burrito was too hot to eat, the fish must have just come right out of the deep fryer. Friends were finishing up and I was just starting. The fish burrito was disappointing. It was a glob of beans, cheese & deep fried fish in a burrito, literally a glob. I was thinking, by the ocean, fish on the grill... not. In the morning I tried to eat it again. It was not good and ended up in the trash. i was the only one who was not satisfied. I would say don't order the fish burrito. As seen in another review, "I wanted to like the place" read more

Fantastic food, excellent service and a beautiful (dog-friendly!) patio. Definitely recommend! read more

Hugo's Cocina - Patio dining - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

I'm so excited they finally have brunch! I tried the Huevos a la Mexicana, which is one of my favorites, and it did not disappoint. It was super flavorful and perfectly cooked! The complimentary chips and salsa were such a nice touch to start the meal. The corn tortillas and beans are always delightful. The potatoes were perfectly seasoned and cooked. Everything tasted fresh and delicious. I can't wait to come back and try more dishes from their brunch menu! read more

What a little gem! We were looking for vegan options while staying with a friend. This was a good balance of vegan and non-vegan options that our group could all enjoy. The vegan menu was extensive (a whole page plus some items embedded within their regular menu). Hubby ordered the vegan California burrito and said it tastes every good and authentic. I ordered the vegan carne asada fajitas. The corn tortillas were very good and not cheap and It was quite decorated to look like an authentic Mexican joint with a giant piñata upon entry. There is a small lot in the back with shared parking. Service was friendly and staff was able to quickly answer questions about vegan items. The busser was also very considerate and attentive to our table. Can't wait to return! read more

Hugo's was my first date after baby #3. All I wanted was Mexican food and I am so glad we chose Hugo's. The food was exceptional, with top-quality meats that were perfectly prepared. Every dish was fresh, flavorful, and clearly made with high-quality ingredients.The margaritas were soooo smooth, perfectly sweet, and incredibly refreshing...and they have the cutest vibe both indoor and outdoor, we ate on the patio, it was so serene also a great family vibe and family owned restaurant with great service. I loved everything from the vibe, the food, the drinks etc we will be back. read more

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Stumbled in out of the heatwave and smoldering sidewalk to find refuge in a cool dark yet cheerfully decorated restaurant. Everything was fresh and delicious. Also on the light side which was perfect for summer dining. Chips and salsa plus guacamole were on-point! Loved the Jamaica- so refreshing! I had chili rellenos and it was fabulous. They offer a large menu of vegan items as well. Great place! read more

Hugo's Cocina - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

I had medium-high hopes for this place. The inside is so fun and cozy, and my server was really cool. I was able to sit anywhere, and was provided with their regular and monthly specials menu. I'm not vegan, but I seriously love vegetables, so I was excited to see that they have a really extensive vegan/vegetarian menu. However, it definitely feels like it was added just to appease vegans, not treat them. I tried a sweet potato taco & a shiitake taco, but both were lackluster; I brought them home and reheated them on the stove with seasoning and salsa I got to go. Super not worth it. I also got a chicken tamale; it was generic, but fine. Sadly, I won't be back. read more

A wonderful Mexican restaurant. The food was delicious, the service was friendly, and a great atmosphere. Will visit again!

Omg this place has the most delicious Burrito and the best tacos ! Service is good fast n happy employees!!! Nice open areas to seat n eat and enjoy the day!!! read more

We had such hope for this, as it's right down the street from our house. Unfortunately, the enjoyment ended after the margarita. I will agree that the margaritas are good, and the salsa with the chips is good, but what followed was disappointing. We tried it twice, having sampled four different entrées, and whether it's the tamales, the enchiladas, or the tacos, there's just not much flavor. When we walk by and see three tables with diners, as opposed to say La Dona where there's a waiting list, that should be their wake up call that a change is needed. read more

Worst California burrito I've had in a wild. Got it cold, bland, fries are taste less, felt it was 70% tortilla and even that wasn't good. Definitely don't recommend. read more

I have found my new beach meal - their Carne Asada Torta is a great option when you aren't feeling like a burrito on the sand. The meat was flavorful and tender. Paired with the pineapple agua fresca, it was the perfect summer lunch. I should also mention that they are thoughtful and have developed a vegan burria taco and offer a steamed veggie plate for our vegan friends. The beans are blended smooth and made without lard but are still packed with all the flavor. The giant tostada looked tempting with the tortilla fried in the shape of a bowl and filled to the brim. They have both inside and sidewalk and patio seating options. If you opt to sit there, they will bring your agua fresca in a cute glass cup that resembles a bee hive. It family run and the mother daughter duo were both very nice and attentive. read more

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AWARENESS: While in San Diego a few weeks ago, the wife had a hungering for Mole Enchiladas, something we've not seen where we currently live. As she scanned Yelp, she came across Hugo's and after looking at their extensive menu and the great pictures posted by fellow yelpers, we decided to make the short drive from Point Loma to the area called Sunset. NARRATIVE: Arriving at Hugo's, we found the place not busy at all, id say I found it; quiet, quant and clean. I was also happy to find they had an outdoor patio area where we could sit with my furry friend. Service was fast and out meals made it to our table with 10 minutes. As mentioned above, the wife ordered their Mole Enchiladas and since I wanted to try the Enchiladas myself, I order the trio. One with Mole, one with green sauce and one with a red sauce. I also thought the Seafood Chile Relleno sounded interesting so, I order that too. SCENE: Hugo's Cocina is located Sunset Cliff's Blvd. in the Sunset area of San Diego, between Niagara and Narragansett Avenues. EVIDENCE: Even though I enjoyed my Enchilada Trio meal and their sauces, the winner has to go to the green sauce. The accompanying rice was good but, I opted for black beans which I thought lacked flavor. The Seafood Chile Relleno was... Not exceptionally good but, not bad either. Let's just say for argument; it was different. RECOMMENDATION(S): If I were in the area and wanted some decent Mexican food, I would return. But San Diego is filled with so many, MANY great Mexican food places, why just have one favorite. read more

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Good food, service and atmosphere. Authentic feel and taste...... Yum. Will go back for more

The vegan california burrito: YUM :) I recommend! My brothers enjoyes there meat cali burritos too... will definitely be back to try the other vegan burrito options. Service was quick and ambiance is cozy/cute with a great outdoor section. Perfect place to come if you have both meat eaters and vegans. read more

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This place is great! We meant to check it out for a while now and were finally in the area and dined in. We sat on the patio with our dog. The service was super friendly and attentive. We are vegan and they have a full vegan menu which is amazing. They have pretty natural substitute for meat which is great! They used tempeh for the vegan fish tacos and mushrooms for the vegan birria tacos. We also had loaded nachos and they even have vegan cheese. Everything was fantastic. Their refried beans are a dream - so creamy and full of flavor! This is a great spot for vegans to go for authentic mexican food and to bring their non vegan friends to. We can't wait to be back! read more

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Excellent customer service! They are willing to accommodate special requests and gladly answer any questions you may have without making you feel rushed. read more

Was at restaurant yesterday. Got steak tacos . They had no lettuce or tomato. They were naked. Waitress says they were street tacos. When I asked for lettuce and tomatoes she brought them to table and we were charged for them like a side dish. Never again even though the food was good but this sneaky up charge is ridiculous. read more

I love how Hugo's caters to vegetarians and they've always been nice, but unfortunately the last 2 times I've gotten it, it has been VERY bland. I'm speaking specifically to the tortilla soup - on both occasions. I ordered it today and it had very little flavor, on top of that I found a wrapper in the soup :( read more

Hugo's Cocina - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

Hugo's was a disappointment all around. The service was slow, forgetful, and icy. The chicken fajitas lacked flavor on the rubbery meat that was congealed together somehow. The red onions and green peppers were also undercooked and flavorless. Carne asada felt old and tasted burnt. The only good thing was the ceviche tostada. Maybe we came on an off night/week, but this place does not deserve 4 stars. read more

We were welcomed warmly and sat right away. The décor is really fun and creates a good atmosphere. The food is okay. There are lots of vegan options. The enchiladas were good. I tried the cheese (best), shrimp (good), and the chicken. It came with beans and rice. My mom got the taco salad (tostada grande Guadalajara). She enjoyed it. The salsa and chips that come before the meal were not great. The salsa was very watery and the flavor was weak. The chips were too thick. I also tried the mango and peach shake. They were both very bland. read more

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Another round here at this amazing place! We visited in April for my nephews graduation and decided to celebrate another nephew who graduated from the Marines. Once again, the service was great, just as was the food!! And we love the ambiance!! We love the Margarita flights too! Thank you to Hugo's Cocina!! read more

The vegetarian options are delicious and the team paid meticulous detail to small dietary modifications. Loved this place and highly recommend for the friendly service they provide. Large comfortable dining area with even a small outside patio. read more

The perfect place to eat brunch on a Sunday after Church Service. Great atmosphere quick seating and service. The menu has options of all dietary restrictions. The food was delicious read more

Hugo's Cocina - The Bassist has arrived. I want one of these piñatas for my birthday. - Mexican Near Me - San Diego, California

Visited this place on a Saturday for dinner. We were able to get seated without any wait time. They have both indoor and outdoor spaces. However, the patio area was super cute and romantic so we decided to sit there. They had an interesting margarita flight. It came with 4 miniature margaritas - lemon, mango, strawberry, tamarind. We loved the margarita flight! The margaritas came with a spiced rim that added a nice touch! They do provide complimentary chips and salsa. We ordered a side of guacamole to go with it. The chips were not oily and the salsa was not too spicy. For food, we got the veggie tamales with a side of refried beans and spanish rice. My friend got the fried burrito. The veggie tamale was very authentic. It was not overly cheesy and was covered with ranchero sauce. They did provide a green sauce to help kick up the spice levels. My friend liked her burrito too. We loved that they had so many veggie and vegan options. I took a long time to go through the list since everything looked so amazing. This place is authentic, walkable from Sunset cliffs/ocean beach and is not overly pricey. I highly recommend this restaurant if you are craving Mexican food! read more

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Just went here for the first time with my wife. Had one of the best margaritas we've ever had. Then shared the enchiladas and carne asada quesadillas. Everything was super delicious. House made red and green salsas were a great addition. Server was nice and helpful. Plenty of seating and space so didn't feel over crowded. Highly recommend read more

Great place to invite vegans and non-vegans to share a meal and have what they like too

I had 1 week to make a reservation for a party of 13, and Hugo's quickly responded and accommodated our party. The day of, I needed to add 2 more guests to the reservation, no problem they said. We were seated in a space that allowed us to talk and laugh, while eating great food and receiving great service from Julio. He was kind, made great suggestions, and took good care of us. We will be coming here again. Thank you Hugo's. read more

Let's start by saying the staff was very welcoming and kind. As our lunch continued we rarely got a check in and I had to hunt them down or wave at them. Normally, if it's a busy day all tables are taken, understandable. But there were two tables taken, including ours. Now, let's move to our plates, I got the carne asada plate, my husband the trio enchiladas and my daughter the carne asada torta. 1. Carne Asada plate - beans, rice & homemade corn tortillas were delicious, now the meat was very bland and it tasted old. My 3 yr old spit it out and refused to continue eating it. 2. Trio Enchiladas - husband said the flavor was okay, he has had better. But they were eatable. 3. Carne Asada Torta - my daughter said it had a lot of ingredients and the taste was good, but the meat was again, on the old stale taste. Might I add the place was very well kept and cleaned, the music wasn't too loud great place to go to. But they need to improve on the taste of their food and checking in frequently to make sure customers don't need anything extra. read more

We've been eating here since this place was Ranchos. We eat here less and less each year. The food is good, but the service is never quite right. There is a tall server. He must be part of the family. He has worked there forever. He couldn't care less about his job. He ALWAYS messes something up. My wife asked for red sauce on her enchiladas and got green sauce. He never checked on us during our meal. My water was never refilled. The place wasn't very busy. Tall dude, I only left you a seven dollar tip because you're terrible at your job. I hope you shared it with the kitchen who makes up for you. read more

I was just served the worse Carne Asada I've ever had at Hugo's Cocina in San Diego! I've eaten at many Mexican restaurants for over 60 years and this was an appallingly bad experience! I ordered the Carne Asada combination plate and instead of the scrumptious strips of marinated beef I'm used to, I got one large overcooked piece of thin sliced beef!! It looked more like deli-sliced beef. When I reminded the waitress that I had ordered carne asada, she said that was it. I was simultaneously shocked and disappointed. If it wasn't for the fact that my wife was overflowing with praise for the Vegan dishes she'd ordered, I would have returned it and left immediately. I was originally not going to write this review because my wife had such a pleasant meal but, the more I thought about it I decided something had to be said. I rate this a less than 1 experience!! read more

I think it's cool that they have a lot of vegetarian options, I'm not vegetarian myself though. I had the two taco combo. I had one shiitake taco and a fried fish taco. I'm not a huge fan of the shiitake taco, but the fish taco was amazing. Beans and rice were good. Nicely decorated. Bathroom is okay, but parking is great!! read more