La Carreta Mexican Restaurant

So I'm from the Bay Area visiting family down in San Diego. Up north there's relatively decent…read moreMexican food, but nothing on the level of Tapatio's. The only thing I can think that compares is Cholo's in LA. Where I'm from burritos are 20 bucks, and like I said they're decent, but you can tell level of care and competence at Tapatio's is on another strata. The tortillas are fried to a perfect crisp. The cheese is melted perfectly. The chili rellanos exquisitely dipped in just the right batter... the salsas are smoky sweet. Don't miss Tapatio's!

Great inexpensive spot for a carnitas plate or a chile rellano burrito, absolutely no frills but…read moreyummy great salaa bar too and JAMAICA too

Over the moon

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Al Pancho's Mexican Restaurant

4.2(147 reviews)

0.6 mi

It's been quite a while since I have enjoyed a taco salad. We were up exploring close to Alpine and…read morefound this restaurant on Yelp. Parking was tricky as they were in the middle of two roads. They had just a few spots next to the restaurant and they were all full. We ended up parking across the street and played Frogger to get to the restaurant. Lol! The food was great and I did my best to eat sll of the salad because it was just delicious. I like the way they presented refried beans in a small taco salad cup. You get the beans and the crunchy! If you are in the area, definitely give this restaurant a try.

Service was amazing. We showed up on Thursday night..it was awesome. Cute small restaurant we found…read moreaccidently. The menu is good lots of choices and our server was happy to explain dishes. One of the best chimichangs ever. I had 2 meals from it. Friends had carne Asad plate. Taco salad and enchiladas..all were good size portions and very flavorful..we will go back

Indoor and patio restaurant

#6 Beef Flautas ! Yummy beans too

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Cafe de la hoya

Marieta’s

4.0(88 reviews)

0.7 mi

First time trying this place and it was a very nice and cozy environment with super strong drinks…read moreand friendly staff. I didn't care for the shrimps ceviche so much there was lack of flavor. But their garlic butter shrimp was to die for!!! Their steak fajita was a bit on the dry side with more veggies then meat ratio.

We love this spot and come here regularly, but our service during this recent visit was a letdown…read more The restaurant wasn't busy at all, yet our server had a pretty indifferent and lazy attitude. Everything moved at a super slow pace, and he just didn't seem to care about the table.We absolutely love the food and the overall vibe here, which is why we keep coming back, but we're deducting a star this time around. Hoping it was just an off night for the service staff, as we really want to see our regular spot stay at the top of their game!

Dining area

Sopa de Albondigas

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Mananas

3.1(193 reviews)

0.1 mi

I was in the parking lot looking around to see what was nearby and saw this place had Mexican food…read moreso I decided to check it out. I expected it to be a small hole-in-the-wall type of spot but I was surprised by how spacious it was. I really liked the decor because it felt like I was stepping into a place you would find in Mexico. They had a salsa bar and I liked that they also had pickled onions which was a nice touch. The prices were good and I tried their special 3 rolled tacos. The ingredients were fresh and the tacos were really good. I enjoyed my visit and would come back again.

Just update to add current menu and prices. Prices shown online are outrageous, so call the shop to…read moreorder.

Mar y tierra fajitas

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Alpine Taco Shop

3.6(148 reviews)

0.3 mi

This is a small spot that's great for a quick stop. We were passing through town and were hungry…read moreand found this was open so we stopped in. It's not fancy decor but it was very clean and service was very friendly and the food was ready quickly made. I had a burrito and my wife had a beef taco and cheese enchilada. All of it was tasty and filling. We would definitely stop in again next time we are in the area!

If you want the best, most authentic Mexican food in San Diego county, Alpine Taco Shop is it!…read more This is a family owned and operated restaurant that has been in business since 1992. The dishes are high quality and absolutely delicious! Large menu, lots of choices and always consistent and service is quick. Indoor and outdoor seating (dog-friendly) and take out. Easy parking and not too far off of Interstate 8. Come up to Alpine and experience this amazing family restaurant!

Outside

Special #1

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Exterior

El Huevo Estrellado 2

3.7(14 reviews)

1.3 mi

This restaurant is unforgettable. The food is spectacular, flavorful and delicious. The micheladas…read moreare perfect and worthy of glorification. The main lady is very friendly and loved to talk, the cook makes the food. On the other hand the decoration is very cultural and delightful.

3rd time here and it doesn't disappoint The food is…read moreexcellent and the customer service is top notch Give this place a try and it may just become your favorite Mexican food place in Alpine

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Machaca and eggs

Diego's Taco Shop

3.6(78 reviews)

0.4 mi

Love supporting small businesses. The food is always good and the workers are so friendly. Love the…read more3 rolled tacos with cheese and guac. And the beans with cheese on the side. Always a stop when I'm in the area and wanting something quick. Love that it has a drive through.

stopped in after hiking in cuyamacs. didn't know what to expect as we pulled in. went in and looked…read moreat menu. decided to get a plate. 2 beef tacos with rice and beans. food came quick. food was good. red sauce was good but not too hot. my friend got 3 rolled tacos. shredded beef inside and a bean and cheese burrito he said they were pretty good. overall good food. inside had 3 tables. not too big but enough. we ate inside and person working came and picked up our plates from the table. overall a decent experience. Will stop in again.

Tacos de tripas. excellent!!

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Shrimp cocktail amazing!!!!!

Alpine Tavern & Grill

4.1(330 reviews)

1.0 mi

Came here with a group of my friends and I really enjoyed the experience here!…read more The place is super adorable with some outside seating available. We were a party of 11 and we got a big booth so all of us could fit. I ordered a bowl of chili and had an Alpine Duet IPA. Im not normally an IPA drinker but this one I liked, it wasnt too bitter and I dare say I liked this IPA! Chili was great and hit the spot, was hearty and well seasoned, just what my body wanted. Ambiance was cozy and gave you a small mountain feel. Service was on point and no issues. Id definitely come back when in Alpine again, was a fun experience!

Why haven't we been here before!? Today the hubby and I met up with brother feom another mother,…read morefor linner. We were pleasantly surprised. We were greated right away & were told we could sit wherever we liked. Reallly nice a/c on this very warm day. Great vibes & music. What we ordered: * Potato Skins * Steak Sandwich w/ Salad * Alpine Protein Bowl Everything we had was very yummy. I loved their twist on the potato skins. They were sliced like thicker potato chips. Then mixed with.bacon & cheese. It was a HOT bowl filled with ooey gooey goodness..... The hubby & I shared the steak sandwich. DELICIOUS!! Our salad was fresh & crisp. My bro seemed to have really enjoyed his meal too. Ryan was our server and did a wonderful job. He even put the Padres game on for us!! Perfect.... We had a really good time. We can't wait to go back to try some of their other delicious items.

Fried green beans

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Alpine Tobacco Company

4.8(55 reviews)

0.6 mi

Customer service is good, the owner Sean is attentive and runs a clean establishment…read more The restroom is ADA approved, however it is outside and a bit warm, single stall and unisex. No food, I didn't ask about pets. Smoking is ONLY allowed outdoors on the patio which is a downside considering the temperatures in Alpine during summer time. The patio is not enclosed with a/c, patio ceiling fans only. Beers/wine/seltzers. Moderate cigar selection. Parking is free in two small lots, one in front of the establishment, the other appears to be a shared lot with the restaurant next door.

I've been meaning to make a trip up to Alpine Tabacco, and today was the day! The place is…read morebeautiful and the atmosphere is inviting. As a walked trough the door I was greeted by Shawn and after a brief introduction i went to the cigar room. Beautiful collection that makes use of every inch of space in the room. And for Shawn's passion I wish it was bigger, just to see what else he can bring in. After my smoke we had a nice conversation and I will definitely will be back with some friends. Had to take some cigars home

Enjoying cigar from Alpine Tobacco

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Off The 8 Cafe

4.5(81 reviews)

0.1 mi

The staff were super kind and attentive. I came in after a really long day of work feeling…read moreexhausted, but they were welcoming and helped me get settled to order. There is seating available both inside and outside, with a comfortable and quiet vibe. The pancakes were soft and perfectly cooked, they came out pretty quickly

The food here is hot and delicious. This is not fast food. They take the time to do it right we…read moresplit our blue cheese and avocado burger with onion rings. Then we got a fresh fruit crêpe with banana, strawberries and blueberries. We will be back!

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Off the 8 café open Monday through Friday 8am till 130

ABC omelette with Hash-browns

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Chocolate Shake

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24 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

MATT F.

156

8 years ago

Moved here from Ramona -- Friday night thought I would try the Mexican food in alpine -called a simple order two tacos two enchiladas - they 15 minutes ,well I left my house at the 20 minute mark ran an errand - no brainier?? Food should be ready?? Hadn't even given the cook the order-waited another 25 minutes - told the owners son probably wouldn't be back - he said that's fine we have plenty of customers!!! WOW!! Got home withe order never put the tacos in had to go back and wait again!!! Honestly the worst attitude and food was so so-----don't waste a Friday night finally ate at 8:45----- started at 6:30 read more

Robert W.

9 years ago

We experienced both excellent service and excellent dining here for lunch. Shae (spelling?) was helpful in selecting items from the menu, and attentive without being intrusive. We split a combination plate, as we both have small appetites. We finished everything, because each item was cooked perfectly, and was delicious. I am rarely motivated to write and post reviews (This is my first Yelp post). However, this place was outstanding, and deserves recognition. You won't be disappointed. Stop on your way for a hike in the mountains. You won't be disappointed.. read more

Jenny N.

176

1 year ago

Under the new ownership, this place is a gem! Service was incredibly quick, the drinks were perfectly crafted, and the food was absolutely excellent, every dish was spot on. Don't be swayed by older reviews; our experience was flawless from start to finish. The highlight? A fresh tres leches cupcake that was hands-down the best I've ever had. We'll definitely be coming back! read more

Cindi G.

6 years ago

This is by by far our favorite Mexican food restaurant. We usually just order to go lately because of covid. The food is always Fresh and Hot. We travel up the hill all the way from San Diego. So that should tell you how good it really is!!!! the staff is awesome and we have never had bad service Thank you! read more

Jennifer D.

2 years ago

La Carreta has been our favorite Mexican restaurant for over thirty years. Their chicken tortilla soup is absolutely the best, we love their fish tacos, enchiladas, and their guacamole is a meal itself. Service with a smile and cocktails that compliment the meal. We love it there! read more

Ronald J.

2 years ago

been going here for over 25 years, the food is always amazing. The owner Luis is the coolest guy and always take care of me and my family when we go. Great atmosphere and music with a bar area and outside dining. Best Mexican food in town! read more

Kim ..

2 years ago

We eat here frequently and the food and the service is excellent! We had my son's surprise birthday party here and did the taco bar, and all was exceptional! I highly reccomend! read more

Susan M.

2 years ago

Great food, excellent service, friendly and relaxing atmosphere! We are traveling and stumbled on this place. Would definitely return and recommend to friends. read more

Payton T.

2 years ago

Service was amazing great workers! y delicousa comida! Definitely recommend getting the most exquisite mexican cuisine here! Super athentic ambiance and fun. read more

Jeff L.

164

8 years ago

Good food. Good service. Been going there for years. Never had a bad experience. Will go back again and again. Recommend to everyone.

Jessica K.

417

10 years ago

This place is great, food is amazing and drinks are even better. My family and I have been coming here for years, highly recommended

Katie G.

1 year ago

love this place! From the Food, to the Bartenders, La Carreta is the best neighborhood restaurant and bar, in my honest opinion!

Jim K.

171

8 years ago

Delicious enchiladas. Best cheese enchiladas I have ever had. And their salsa is amazing. I love this place.

Pete C.

10 years ago

Food is good, not great. But for what the food has, the awful service makes up for. I will not be returning.

Max D.

9 years ago

La Carreta is the Best authentic Mexican food restaurant around. Always good. Service is excellent.

S M.

3 years ago

Best food and service!!!! I love the enchilada and taco plate. Great atmosphere and very welcoming

Darcy L.

13 years ago

Great Salsa and their tortilla soup is amazing. Love the booths, outside patio is nice in summer.

Michael Z.

2 years ago

great service and food by louis, had big birthday party with over twenty people it went great!

Vicky V.

10 years ago

Service can be hit and miss. Food is mostly good. This restaurant needs better management!

Jacqueline B.

1 year ago

Menudo to go 10/10 do NOT recommend. Canned menudo reheated several times. Not good at all.

La Carreta Mexican Restaurant - mexican - Updated October 2026

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