Primos Mexican Food & Cantina — Restaurant in San Diego

I'm reviewing these guys because they're literally the closest restaurant to my house. My feelings on this place can be succinctly reflected with the answer I gave my wife when she asked me what I thought of them after they opened earlier this year: "Better than Taco Bell, I guess?"

I do like that their carnitas are crispy whether delivered in their ultra-greasy burritos or their tacos. Speaking of the tacos, they are hit with a glowing-green avocado sauce that looks like radioactive waste. Seriously, the first time I saw that the avocado sauce looked like it had the consistency of green toothpaste, I was justifiably concerned that it was going to overwhelm in an awful way, but it actually is a bit light, airy, and not unpleasant.

My experience with the Steak Adobada Burrito was not as much of a hit. For one, it has only three ingredients: steak, guacamole, and tomatoes. The greasy, crispy steak is actually ground beef, but crisped up -- I suspect, deep-fried in a vat of lard similar to the carnitas. No complaints here even if it wasn't exactly what I expected, but something in the burrito tasted a quite a bit off, almost floral. Couldn't put my finger on it, but it was unusual enough that I thought the tortilla was old at first and then determined that, no, the odd taste was coming from something else.

I'll continue to come here if I want to take a short walk to eat. They're also open later than anywhere else walkable from my house. But there are obviously much better "fake Mexican" restaurants than this throughout San Diego, even available via delivery. This is not destination dining, just an average neighborhood taco shop that is part of a...

It's hit or miss & for that I can't continue to give them my business. Consistency is key to running a successful business.

First time, I received a Surf & Turf bowl & it tasted like they took the little bits of left over crunchy meat from the grill and put it in my bowl OR someone burnt the meat because they weren't paying attention and served it to me anyway.

I gave them one last opportunity. This time, I ordered a bowl with chicken even though I wanted a Surf & Turf bowl which I'm sure is more $$$ their loss...again.

I ordered through the DoorDash app. I showed up to get my order. Nobody was in the restaurant at that time. One cashier, one cook from what I could see. The cashier didn't even realize I was there in the restaurant. She didn't need to. I'm waiting next to the DoorDash order pick up area. When the order is ready the employee puts it in the DoorDash pick up area because that's what dping your job entails.

Another customer enters, orders & starts socializing with the cashier about how "it's cool they have a liquor license," she's explaining the sizes of the burritos and how you can get them in a bowl or torta. Next thing you know, he's walking out with his order. I received a text that said my order was ready and this employee couldn't put it in the designated DoorDash area?! I had to walk up and ask her where my order was because she wasn't doing her job! The order was already ready & sitting behind her. The epitome of laziness!...

Primos Mexican Food is hands down one of the best spots for delicious, authentic Mexican food! From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with friendly service and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The menu offers a great variety of flavorful dishes, from mouthwatering street tacos to their amazing burritos that are packed with fresh ingredients.

Their carne asada is perfectly seasoned, the guacamole is fresh and creamy, and their salsas have just the right kick! You can tell they use high-quality ingredients and put care into every dish. Portions are generous, prices are reasonable, and the food always hits the spot.

Whether you're craving a quick bite or a full meal, Primos never disappoints. Highly recommend for anyone looking for an authentic and satisfying Mexican food...