Rubio's Coastal Grill — Restaurant in San Diego

Rubio's Coastal Grill was originally just called Rubio' s and it was founded by Ralph Rubio ; he started one of his first restaurants near the eastern most area of Pacific Beach, a bit south of where Balboa Avenue and Mission Beach Boulevard intersect. Rubio's was one of the first dilettante restaurants, where they focused on making original Mexican fish tacos and at least three decades later, Rubio's has become an icon in regards to "real fish tacos." I used to stop in San Quentin - on my way to surf a secret lefthander down along Baja Norte - and near the small Mexican motel where I stayed, there was a small taco stand ; they cooked up some really awesome abalone, lobster and fish taco's. They also used to sell them at some of Tijuana's roadside taco stands and they became very popular in Ensenada too. I really love Rubio's "homemade battered by hand, Wild Alaska Pollock fish tacos" that Rubio's has created however, over the years, the types of fish used by many restaurants has changed : Many copycats use tilapia - a small flat, perch-like ocean fish that is extremely plentiful and cheap to process. I don't particularly care for this brand of fish however - over many decades the prices of most "prime fish types," such as REAL RED SNAPPER, halibut, wild caught salmon, flounder, codfish, white sea bass and other now federally controlled "over fished species," have soared right through the roof! In fact, some are more expensive per pound, that the best meats. Many fish, such as catfish, trout, Atlantic salmon,cod and others are "farmed,"as well as "genetically altered" to produce a different species and bigger fish ; if both types ever accidentally combined, the results could be disastrous (mutants?). The fish tacos at the Rubio's Coastal Grill are still as good as they've always been, when they first opened about three decades ago : Their, "On Tuesdays, Dine Out In San Diego Specials," which is one way that participating restaurants give something back their new, as well as their loyal customers, is a good time to stop by ; yet any time that I want one of the best seafood meals around,Rubio's is the best place for me. I stopped by Rubio's about three weeks ago and had three of their fish tacos and a small drink ; it set me back by about $11,which is normal in today's new world. It was very busy - which was detrimental in my case - as I prefer to avoid crowded places, as sometimes the food is often of lesser quality, because the crew feels "hurried." Of course this is not true at Rubio's ; people who have to wait a while for their food are often quick to complain about something innocuous.l My order is always great and the service is always excellent too! As I'm handicapped, someone also brought my order to my table, which was very nice of them HOWEVER, I still prefer to do things on my own! I returned on the following Tuesday and got an awesome deal ; an unreal lobster taco, three of my favourite "original fish tacos," a large lemonade.( I used my "free taco coupon," that was given to me last time I ate at "Rubio's Coastal Grill.") and the "Tuesday Special!" Thank you JEREMY, for helping me enroll in "THE BEACH CLUB,"as I had some problems - with my android phone - getting my birth date correct ; I had substituted an "O" for a zero "0" and I wasted about two hours trying to figure out what I did wrong? It took him about three minutes...to correct my silly mistake ( Sometimes, I'd like to throw that friggin' android of mine, in the bloody ocean!). As a member of "Rubio's Beach Club," I get special deals, that often include "free food!" Next time, it's a "sweet deal" : a $2 OFF ANY ENTREE` coupon, if I decide to use it? I returned again - the Tuesday after the New Year's holiday -and eventhough it was a might busy, my meal was still awesome and if you take thei "survey" at the bottom of your receipt, you can get a free large drink. And don't forget to join their "Beach Club." They make the best fish tacos in San...

"Fresh Flavors and Friendly Faces at Rubio's Coastal Grill"

A must visit when you are in San Diego.

My visit to Rubio's Coastal Grill was a delightful dive into coastal cuisine, highlighted by an array of fresh and flavorful dishes. The blackened mahi-mahi fish tacos stood out with their perfect blend of spices and freshness, while the mangosteen lobster quinoa bowl was both satisfying and bursting with flavor. Additionally, the steak quesadillas were a delicious surprise, proving that Rubio's does more than just great seafood. The side of chips complemented by a variety of salsa and avocado options added a wonderful touch to the meal, elevating the dining experience with each dip.

The friendly staff at Rubio's made the visit all the more enjoyable. Their warm welcome and attentive service contributed to a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. Finding parking was a breeze, especially at night, adding to the convenience of the dining experience.

The restaurant's cleanliness was commendable, with well-maintained dining areas that invited you to settle in and savor your meal. However, the requirement of a code to access the bathrooms, which were a bit messy during my visit, was a minor inconvenience in an otherwise stellar experience.

In summary, Rubio's Coastal Grill offers a fresh take on coastal cuisine with its delicious menu options, friendly service, and comfortable ambiance. Whether you're craving fish tacos or a hearty bowl, Rubio's promises a satisfying meal that captures the essence of the coast. Just be prepared to navigate the bathroom access, and you're set for a fantastic...

I love Rubio's tacos. This location however needs some serious management and staff changes or better supervision. Our visit here was unbelievable. I should have walked out as soon as I walked in, but I really wanted fish tacos and I wanted them now. When we walked in the restaurant, one of the girls behind the counter who was supposed to be taking orders or at least doing something, literally had the doors to the beer and drink case opened and was sitting inside of it wiping her face with a towel all sweaty. Seriosuly disgusting. Then after another girl came out to take our order, she went and got a bar stool and propped open the kitchen dish area door and sat there on a chair talking to the girl who was cashiering. Really pathetic. I felt bad for the girl who was actually working. Unfortunately, the lazy on had no name tag on or I would have called the corporate office to report her. She was a short Hispanic girl with glasses with a really annoying voice. Our food was good and the taller Hispanic girl that brought us our food who also wore glasses was very sweet and friendly and was working her tail off to compensate for the lazy one. I wonder what else goesn on here when...