The best place in San Diego to enjoy authentic Mexican Cuisine is El Agave Restaurant and Tequileria, located within our Tequila Museum where you can try over 2000 different tequilas. It is the perfect setting to experience the true flavor of Mexico. If you are looking for a great place for a business lunch, romantic dinner or just to enjoy a fine Tequila with friends or someone special, we are ready to serve you. Do not just go out to an ordinary restaurant, join us for a unique experience
Bottles line the walls at this high-end Mexican eatery known for its extensive tequila collection.
Monica Steward
Food and atmosphere were fantastic!! Delicious food, great flavor, great drinks! Fantastic tequila selection! Atmosphere was great! Loved all the bottles! Great spot for dinner! Service wasn’t terrible but our waiter was unpleasant. His attitude got worse through the evening, heavy sighs, snide comments, eye rolling etc. For the cost of our table/meal his attitude was sad and disappointing. Several at the table that were locals said they wouldn’t return or recommend due to his attitude which I found disappointing as the food was really good, location was good, and Atmosphere was nice!
… moreLuke Qian
This restaurant and bar showcases an impressive collection of tequila, with shelves of colorful bottles lining the walls and even the ceiling—an atmosphere designed to immerse you in the spirit long before the first drink arrives. The cocktail program naturally leans toward tequila and mezcal. While not boundary-pushing enough to compete with award-winning bars, the drinks are well made and offer thoughtful, appealing flavor profiles.
Service was initially discouraging; we waited more than 30 minutes for food. But once the dishes arrived, the kitchen quickly redeemed the experience. Highlights included the aguachile de camarón, the short rib poblano, and the arroz a la tumbada—each vibrant, spicy, and deeply seasoned.
One disappointment lingered: a guacamole listed at $22, a price neither stated on the menu nor easily justified. The server’s attempt to explain it by citing avocado costs of $3–5 apiece felt unconvincing, especially given that even retail prices fall below that range. Still, despite a few missteps, the restaurant delivers strong flavors and a memorable setting for anyone drawn to agave spirits.
… moreChe Bella Vita
Food and portions were good. We had shrimp tacos and enchiladas verde to share, tap water and passion fruit margarita.
Plus nachos and 3 dip sauces to start with.
We felt satisfied and can recommend this place.
… moreYu Miao
Atmosphere: great! We sat at a corner, so it was not too noisy. The decorations and lighting were also good. Staff were friendly. Importantly, they are also dog-friendly.
Food: not bad. We enjoyed the fish tacos, octopus was tender. However, we waited for 40min for the dishes. The dessert is delicious. I had the best churros here.
… moreJennifer Alexa Lee
I was pleasantly surprised by how quiet the restaurant was during my visit—perhaps it was dinner time, or maybe the prices are a bit higher than average. Either way, it worked out perfectly for me. The food and service were truly exceptional, and I can confidently say you won’t be disappointed. The Milo Don Julio was outstanding, and the portions were incredibly generous—I couldn’t even finish my meal! I also tried the quesadilla de flor de calabaza, which had a unique presentation, more like an empanada, but it was absolutely delicious. I would love to come back and try their lunch menu next time. This place is truly a hidden gem worth revisiting.
… moreGreg Knittel
This place is great for those who really do not like real simple flavorful Mexican food. This is an upscale expensive place doing its best to turn what could be great into something overblown and failing the taste test. Sauces taste like a chef guessing at what it might taste like after graduating from the culinary institute in french flavors. Stake chips, bland salsa, chicken in a red sauce void of flavor. Beautiful presentation -expensive. Wish i had found a taco truck
… moreSteve Engle
Parking is a little tight, but very worth it. They had a veranda open for dining when we were there and the view and breeze made for a great atmosphere. We ordered three entrees and an appetizer. Everything was outstanding. Just go, and maybe stop in downstairs for a rare tequila to go.
… moreValerie Endicott
Oh my. A Chili Relleno that bursted with tender steak, peanuts and seasonings that had me wanting to lick my plate! A perfect Tequila Mojito to wash it down and our attentive and friendly server Alberto made this special girls night out perfect. A very intimate and cool spot. Highly recommend.
… moreRebecca Franks
This is the best Mexican food Resturant! I love the decor(3000+ tequila bottles), service and food! Everything is the best authentic Mexico City style cuisine. Everything I’ve ever ordered is the best!
… moreWhitney Angelo
Probably the best Mexican food we’ve ever had. It was absolutely outstanding. The service was prompt and friendly. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming. Drinks were delicious. We were absolutely floored by reading some less than stellar reviews bc they couldn’t have exceeded our expectations any more than they did! We loved it!
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