Emma's Mexican Food — Restaurant in Santee

Having spent 20 years exploring the vibrant culinary scene in San Diego and visiting over 200 restaurants, I can confidently say that Emma’s Mexican Restaurant stands out as one of the best, hands down.

From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with the warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like a genuine slice of Mexico. The décor is charmingly authentic, and the staff exude a friendliness that makes you feel right at home.

But it’s the food that truly sets Emma’s apart. Every dish is a celebration of traditional Mexican flavors, prepared with the freshest ingredients and a meticulous attention to detail. Whether it’s the perfectly seasoned carne asada, the rich and flavorful mole, or the mouth-watering enchiladas, each bite transports you straight to the heart of Mexico.

What truly impresses me is the consistency and quality of their offerings. Emma’s doesn’t just serve food; they craft an experience. The tortillas are handmade, the salsas burst with freshness, and the portions are generous without compromising on quality.

If you’re a San Diego native or just passing through, Emma’s Mexican Restaurant is a must-visit. It’s a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Mexico and a shining gem in San Diego’s dining landscape. Emma’s has earned its place as a top-tier restaurant, and I can’t recommend it...

From the looks of the outside, Emma’s Mexican Food place is really a mom and pops taco shop and not a full service restaurant.

Wanted to give it a try after doctor’s appointment since it was right across from the hospital. Nothing fancy to note, but nice staff, clean tables, calm atmosphere, decorative and spacious areas between tables. Food prices were reasonable.

Our order was cooked in no time. Fresh and hot. My rolled tacos’ portioning and presentation was so-so. Avocado looked like it was spread on, barely had any. Cheese looked skimpy. Compared to rolled tacos in Southbay, the rolls are larger in size and fixings are plenty (ie avocado, lettuce, cheese, cotija cheese, and sour cream). The breakfast burrito was smaller than expected but was good. I had the other half the next day and it still tasted good.

I was bummed to see an empty salsa cart but I must say, the home made hot sauce was the bomb. It not only tasted delicious, it’s smelled good.

Lots of...

Stopped by for a late lunch while getting my vehicle smogged across the lot. I ordered four mini carne asada tacos with rice and beans. The tacos were a little different than your traditional "Tijuana" or "street" tacos in that they didn't have a guacamole sauce. The tacos had the typical cilantro and onion with a tomatillo salsa. They had a salsa bar with green sauce, two red sauces (mild and hot), and pico. The tacos were delicious, the rice and beans were rice and beans, and the hotter red sauce was hot, very good, but not stupid hot. Added bonus, they had bottled Coke in the traditional 12oz. Even though I'm not a big soda drinker, I like bottled Coke with Mexican food if beer isn't available. I just wish they had the medio...