Lunch & Gift Shopping in San Diego’s Old Town 🛍️🍽️

After a morning exploring the gorgeous Balboa Park 🌳🖼️, we made our way to Old Town for a true taste of Mexico! On Yelp, we discovered Casa Guadalajara – with thousands of reviews and a solid 4-star rating, it did not disappoint! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🇲🇽 Warning: Portions are HUGE! Mexican servings here put American ones to shame… 😳 We ordered the Molcajete and a combination platter, and wow – enough food for a family of four! Perfect for sharing (or for leftovers the next day 🍱). 🎨 Feast for the Eyes Too! The restaurant is a explosion of vibrant, joyful colors – bold reds, sunny yellows, deep blues, and lush greens 💛❤️💙💚. It shouldn’t work… but it absolutely does! The décor is traditional yet playful, with papel picado banners, rustic tiles, and lush patio seating under blooming bougainvillea 🌸. So many photo opportunities! 📸 🛒 Don’t Miss the Gift Shop! Attached is a delightful mercado selling handcrafted Mexican treasures: Colorful Talavera pottery 🏺 Embroidered bags and textiles Day of the Dead skeletons 💀📿 Hot sauces and Mexican candies 🌶🍬 Perfect for bringing home a piece of this magic! 🍽️ Must-Try Dishes: Tableside Guacamole – fresh, zesty, and perfect with homemade chips 🥑 Carne Asada Plate – tender, marinated steak with classic sides 🥩 Ceviche Tostadas – light, citrusy, and refreshing 🐟🍋 Prickly Pear Margarita – sweet, tangy, and Insta-worthy 🌵🍹 🌶️ Pro-Tip: Come hungry, wear stretchy pants, and enjoy the live mariachi music on weekends! 🎺🎶 #SanDiego #SanDiegoEats #OldTownSD #MexicanFood #TravelSD #FoodieAdventure #ColorfulPlaces