Jimmy Carter's Mexican Café — Restaurant in San Diego

The dining experience at this restaurant is nothing short of exceptional, combining incredible food, outstanding service, and a charming atmosphere that sets it apart. My visits to this establishment have left me thoroughly impressed, and I can confidently say it has become one of my favorite places to eat. Allow me to take you through my experiences and explain why this place deserves the highest praise.

The first time I visited was a few months ago. Curious to see if the buzz around this restaurant was justified, I decided to try their Chicken Mole special. Mole, a traditional Mexican sauce known for its rich and complex flavors, is a dish I’ve enjoyed many times before at various restaurants. However, the Chicken Mole here was unlike anything I’d ever tasted. The balance of flavors was perfect—smoky, slightly sweet, and just the right amount of spice. The sauce clung to the tender, juicy chicken in a way that highlighted every note of the dish. It was, without question, the best mole I have ever had.

After that initial visit, it was only a matter of time before I returned. A few days ago, I finally made my way back, excited to see if my second experience would live up to the first. This time, I ordered the Pork Chile Colorado. Once again, I was amazed. The pork was perfectly cooked, tender, and packed with flavor, while the red chile sauce was rich and hearty with a depth that spoke to hours of careful preparation. I couldn’t help but compare it to the many versions of Chile Colorado I’ve tried over the years, and this one easily surpassed them all. It was a dish I would happily order again and again.

No meal is complete without dessert, and this restaurant has a standout option that deserves a spotlight of its own: the Tortuga Pie. Made in-house by the owner’s sister, this dessert is a true masterpiece. I can’t overstate how delicious it was. The pie featured a perfect blend of textures and flavors—sweet, creamy, and just indulgent enough to satisfy your cravings without being overly rich. It was the kind of dessert that lingers in your memory long after the last bite. If you visit this restaurant, the Tortuga Pie is an absolute must-try. Trust me, you won’t regret it.

Of course, great food is only part of what makes a dining experience memorable. The service here was equally outstanding. On both visits, we were fortunate to have the same server, and his level of attentiveness and professionalism was remarkable. He struck the perfect balance between being friendly and efficient, always ensuring our needs were met without being intrusive. It’s clear that he takes pride in his work and genuinely cares about providing an excellent experience for every guest. Having consistent, high-quality service like this is rare, and it made our visits all the more enjoyable.

The atmosphere of the restaurant is another element that sets it apart. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted by a warm and inviting ambiance that feels both cozy and sophisticated. The decor is tasteful and thoughtful, with little touches that give the space a unique charm. Whether you’re dining with family, meeting friends, or enjoying a quiet meal alone, the setting feels just right. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to linger a little longer, soaking in the pleasant vibes and enjoying good company.

In summary, this restaurant offers a dining experience that excels on every level. The food is truly extraordinary, with dishes like the Chicken Mole and Pork Chile Colorado showcasing the chef’s skill and dedication to quality. The Tortuga Pie is a dessert that alone is worth the visit, and the exceptional service ensures that every guest feels valued and well-cared for. Add to that an atmosphere that radiates charm and comfort, and you have a recipe for a restaurant that leaves a lasting impression.

If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a meal that goes beyond the ordinary, I wholeheartedly recommend giving this restaurant a try. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, you’re sure to leave with a full stomach and a...

I am Hispanic... having grown up with my mom who was an excellent cook making me great Mexican food since Iwas a small child. I literally grew up in authentic home made Mexican food as my primary diet. Years ago... back in 2015... a friend took me on a trip to San Diego for New Years. Since he had lived in San Diego before... and knowing that I love Mexican food... he suggested this place called Jimmy Carter's that was a favorite of his. I'm not gonna lie... when he mentioned the name of the restaurant... inside I shriveled at the thought of this restaurant. In my mind I thought... how good can a Mexican restaurant named "Jimmy Carter's" possibly be? I thought to myself it was likely gonna be an Americanized version of Mexican food. I agreed... with reluctance in my heart and mind... that I kept to myself. After all... I was his guest... and he was treating.

Upon our arrival at breakfast time... I noticed that their table side salsa was truly outstanding and quite spicy. A win for me. I was starting to feel a little better about the restaurant. Craving some breakfast food... but still wanting something authentically Mexican... I went with the Chilaquiles (the red ones). Oh boy was I pleasantly surprised when they came to me... tasting very much like the ones my mom used to cook for me so many years ago!!! They were so tasty... with crispy tortilla chips drenched in their Norteña sauce, two fresh eggs (served to your liking) and sprinkled with cotija cheese. zthey were served with their delicious Spanish rice and tasty beans (black or pinto... your choice). WOW... JUST WOW!!! was truly impressed!!! I was now obsessed with this restaurant. I ended up asking to go back there one more time... before heading back home to L.A.

I don't live anywhere near San Diego... but I now visit often... just to go to that restaurant!!! We've even made several trips to surrounding areas like Temecula and Fallbrook... and I happily make the trek to that restaurant just to eat... even if it means a few hours extra of travel time just for a meal. I have since turned every member of my family and several friends onto that place... and they ALL agree it's outstanding!!! Everything we've ever ordered on their menu is incredibly delicious!!! I also highly recommend the Barburrito (please smother this in their Norteña sauce) & the Nuevo Leon Enchiladas from their breakfast menu... but honestly... nothing we've ever ordered from there was ever a mistake!!!

If you haven't tried them... I highly suggest you do!!! ...

The four stars is because I've been going to this restaurant since they opened up at this particular location..... The positive side is that it is centrally located close to Balboa Park in the heart of Bankers Hill the food here is overall very delicious..... but..... the wait staff is very bad they have this one older thin short Mexican gentleman I don't know his name but he is terrible as a waiter he's got this cocky little attitude and he loves absolutely loves to neglect the tables, I know because of had him as a waiter at least 12 times I've even brought large parties in to this restaurant to celebrate and everybody at the table spends the whole time complaining about this jerk waiter and the owner who's always at his restaurant doesn't seem to catch on he doesn't know how bad this guy is for his business...... but the last time I went a couple of days ago my waiter was a younger guy with dark brown curly hair and he was excellent, if they keep people like him that will help build up their reputation but when they keep the waiters that are giving them a bad reputation some of the older ladies and then also the older short thin Mexican gentleman that I mentioned earlier..... when they keep those people around it's just doing themselves a huge disservice because there's no way that I'm the only one that thinks This ......I Promise the majority of customers who go to this place often know that that is the case if you're the type of person who could care less about any service whatsoever then you should not be reading any reviews but if you do care then hey be like me and speak up otherwise these businesses will keep with their...