Café Coyote in Old Town San Diego is a sanctuary of Mexican cuisine, where authenticity is served on every plate and the atmosphere wraps around you like a warm, familiar embrace. As you step inside, you’re greeted by a lively symphony of laughter, clinking glasses, and the subtle hum of contentment that only comes from sharing a truly great meal.

Our culinary journey began with a classic appetizer: guacamole and chips. The guacamole, a vibrant green blend of ripe avocados, was topped with fresh pico de gallo and presented in a crispy tortilla bowl that added an extra layer of crunch to every bite. The chips were perfectly salted, crisp, and the ideal vessel for scooping up the rich, creamy guac. It was a simple, yet effective way to whet our appetites for what was to come.

For our main courses, we opted for the Asada plate and a Chile Relleno. The Asada plate was a true feast, featuring a perfectly grilled steak with just the right amount of char, locking in the juices and enhancing its natural flavors. Accompanied by a generous serving of refried beans sprinkled with crumbled queso fresco, a mound of fluffy Mexican rice, and a warm tortilla wrapped in foil, it was the kind of dish that satisfies both your hunger and your soul.

The Chile Relleno was equally impressive—a roasted poblano pepper stuffed with cheese, lightly battered, and fried to golden perfection. It was tender, flavorful, and offered a delightful contrast to the robust flavors of the Asada.

To complement our meal, we indulged in two different margaritas. The Mango Margarita was a sweet, tropical escape in a glass, with the perfect balance of fruity sweetness and tangy citrus. The Chamoy Margarita, with its unique blend of spicy, tangy, and sweet flavors, was an absolute delight. The rim, coated in chamoy and chili powder, added an extra kick that made each sip a new experience.

Our waiter, David, was attentive and friendly, ensuring that our glasses were never empty and our plates were always full. His service added to the overall enjoyment of the evening, making us feel well taken care of throughout our visit.

If there was one small note, it would be the salsa—it could have used a bit more heat. But given that Café Coyote is situated in a touristy area, it’s understandable that they might dial down the spiciness to cater to a broader audience.

We celebrated our 11th wedding anniversary at Café Coyote, and it was an evening to remember. The food, the drinks, the service—it all came together to create a perfect celebration of our love and commitment. If you’re looking for a place to mark a special occasion, or even just to enjoy a great meal, Café Coyote is where you’ll find that experience. Highly recommended.