San Diego > Inexpensive Dining Tips

It’s not difficult to find a fantastic meal in San Diego -- that is, if you’re willing to pay outrageously expensive prices. The trick in this town (or any major city for that matter) is to find a great meal for less. Located just 17 miles from the Mexican border, San Diego offers some of the best Mexican restaurants in the country. And just about all of these establishments are located in Old Town. The first European settlement in California, Old Town is where San Diego began and it continues as a premier location for locals and visitors who want a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine at affordable prices. Although the Bazaar del Mundo, located in Old Town State Historic Park, with five famous restaurants and 16 international shops, is often swarmed with tourists, it does offer some of the best Mexican cafes in town. The Casa de Bandini (619/ 297-8211) is an historic hacienda offering traditional Mexican fare and award-winning seafood specialties, with just about all single-person dishes pricing at $10 or under. The succulent food here is complimented by their tasty margaritas, and the atmosphere, complete with garden patio dining and mariachi entertainment, leaves little else to be desired. Another renowned establishment at the Bazaar is the Casa de Pico (619/ 296-3267), which also serves Mexican fare at $10 or under for one person. This place is famous for its festive courtyard dining and also serves giant margaritas. Keep in mind there are other authentic restaurants not only in Old Town State Historic Park, but throughout the entire neighborhood of Old Town that serve true Mexican dishes at low prices. One example is the Old Town Mexican Café (619/ 297-4330). Here you’ll find carnitas, rotisserie chicken, handmade tortillas and award-winning margaritas. And yes, single-person dishes cost little more than $10.