Tony's Jacal — Restaurant in Solana Beach

I searched extensively for a well rated restaurant near Del Mar that serves Mexican food at a reasonable price. Tony's Jacal was able to seat us immediately and the ambience was interesting. The establishment was clean and the service very attentive.

I didn't enjoy the chips and salsa brought to the table, it was a bit too spicy and bitter for my taste, but no big deal. My margarita was very nice and they didn't short me on the alcohol (I upgraded to a premium grade). One drink was enough to make me glad I wasn't driving. And I think the upcharge was brought the cost up to the $10-12 range per drink.

For my entrée I ordered a combo platter with 4 small sized items, a beef taco (hard fried shell was kind of greasy and tough, I didn't finish it), a chili relleno (strange soft fried patty, the dough on the outside was a little soft/tasted of cooking grease but the inside was pretty good. I ate the whole thing but I wouldn't order it again). A turkey tamale (thick breading around turkey filling, took one bite and didn't finish it). And a cheese enchilada (this was fine, though I did have to search for it under the lake of enchilada sauce). I liked the Mexican rice, it was light and fluffier than I often find in Mexican restaurants, but the beans were nothing special, I didn't eat them. I give my meal a 2.5/5 because although I didn't really enjoy it greatly there was enough there to keep me from leaving hungry. The margarita helped.

My husband had the carna asada tacos. They were ok with the salsa fresca, fresh taste but a bit bland. He gave them 3.5/5.

One thing I like is you don't have to wait on the bill, you can just go to the cashier and pay by table number. Two entrees in the $15 dollar range and two drinks wound up costing $64 including tip. ...

Stepping into Tony’s Jacal was like stepping back in time to 1946, the year it first opened its doors. The rich history and nostalgic décor immediately captured my attention, setting the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.

Despite its Solana/Del Mar location, parking proved to be surprisingly manageable, thanks to designated spots scattered around the residential area. While we had to park across the street, it was a small inconvenience and helped me get a few extra steps in.

Customer service, while not overly warm, was efficient and no-nonsense. Our orders were taken swiftly, and the food arrived fairly quick, despite being busy. The unique system of paying the bill, with your table number at the front counter, added to the old-school charm of the place.

Now, let's talk about the food – the star of the show. We kicked off our meal with the shrimp ceviche, which, while flavorful, left us craving a bit more shrimp amidst the abundance of fresh veggies. For our main course, we savored the chicken enchiladas Verde and Chicken Mole, both of were delicious. The Verde sauce was a standout, perfectly complementing the tender chicken and accompanied by delicious sides of rice and beans. The Chicken Mole, with its rich, velvety sauce, was another highlight. The elote was good but slightly overcooked corn. The homemade flour tortillas were the BEST!!!!!

Overall, our dining experience was great, leaving us eager to return and explore more of the extensive menu offerings. With its rich history, charming ambiance, and delectable cuisine, this restaurant is truly a hidden gem worth discovering. Whether you're a local or just passing through the area, make sure to add this place to your list – there's something here to delight...

We had a wonderful dinner for two. It is hard to find an authentic Mexican restaurant that does not use lard in their frying. Tony’s does not. We started with a cold draft from the extensive beer list. Some of the drinks and the tequila six selection Looks wonderful as well. We started with a basket of chips with salsa and ordered a large guacamole, which frankly was not that large, but it was wonderful. It was served on a bit of lettuce. Companion had the potato enchilada which he said was wonderful, vegan, And served with vegan beans spiced rice and they’re wonderful cabbage salad, which taste like it has a very light mayonnaise dressing on it but thick cut and not like coleslaw.

I had the mixed seafood enchilada which was really really good. It had a sauce on top of it and again the vegan beans And rice and a very chocolate flavored molè on the side. We passed on dessert.

They did not give you a check at the table, the first time I have ever seen this, but you finish and go up to a desk and give them your table number. They have what you ordered and they enter it there. Not sure I’d like the system as it doesn’t give you a lot of time to check Whether they are accurate.

See my photos the bathroom needed a little bit more attention and was messy.

The atmosphere of the place is wonderful. It’s like one big party. The outdoor dining area is gorgeous with a central flower garden and a waterfall.

Very authentic delicious Mexican food with an amazing variety on the menu. Would...