Interstate 5 overhead, Sandiego Bay to the west and south, and Coronado Bridge spanning the water, this is Barrio Logan, a historically Mexican community that has grown into a bastion of cuisine and culture.
Here you can find gatherings of hipsters enjoying hot dogs tucked in Sonora-style artisan rolls and spicy micheladas while they snap photos of their food blogs. You can also find a few shops that the locals love that date back to the early 20th century when immigrants streamed into the neighborhood in an attempt to escape the Mexican Revolution.
Commercial developments and changing demographics have brought new crowds to Barrio Logan, but still, its food remains as a reminder of the true origin of the neighborhood. So, if you find yourself in Barrio Logan, take some time to explore one or maybe all six of the foodie destinations below.
A Brief History of barrio logan
It wasn't until the 19th century and the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo that saw San Diego change hands, no longer a territory of Mexico. Then, with the Mexican Revolution in 1910, 50,000 to 100,000 Mexicans fled north from Mexico. Some came simply to escape the violence, others came to start a better life.
Though much has changed in the region as city development has reshaped the neighborhood of Barrio Logan. Such construction projects. These include the construction of a naval base on the Neighborhood’s waterfront and its accompanying Coronado Bridge along with Interstate 5 have displaced many former residents. However, the neighborhood has persevered and its culture of delicious authentic food along with it.
The best Mexican restaurants to try in barrio logan, san diego
¡Salud Tacos!
Salud Tacos is a hip authentic taco spot where you can expect quality ingredients at a good price. These aren’t your one-dollar street tacos. These are creative but still authentic tacos served for a modern crowd.
- Address - 2196 Logan Ave. San Diego, CA 92113
- Contact - (619) 255-3856
- Hours - Tuesday through Sunday 12 pm to 8 pm
- Price - $-$$
- What To Try - Cheese Birria Tacos
- Menu
El Carrito Restaurant
You can pretty much always expect a line but that's because it’s worth it. The quality and servings of the food are fantastic and you won’t pay too much either. This restaurant has its share of history too. It was an old cable car in the 1930s and was turned into the bustling hot spot for Mexican food that it is today.
- Address - 2154 Logan Ave San Diego, CA 92113
- Contact - (619) 501-0095
- Hours - Monday through Thursday 8 am to 3 pm, and Saturday-Sunday 8 am to 5:30 pm
- Price - $$-$$$
- What To Try - Chilaquiles
- Menu
Barrio Dogg
Barrio Dogg is a cool neighborhood hangout with maybe even cooler Mexican hot dogs. They operate out of a fairly small space, but the colorful artwork makes you feel welcome. Plus, hot dogs are a great to-go food if you want to eat them on the road. They do also have a taproom, so you can devour some delicious dogs while enjoying a brew.
- Address - 2234 Logan Ave. San Diego, CA 92113
- Contact - (619) 546-7889
- Hours - Everyday 10 am to 9 pm
- Price - $-$$
- What To Try - El Pueblito
- Menu
El Salvadoreño
They opened their doors in April 1995 to diners in San Diego. The owners, Maria and Rafael, introduced Southern California to the flavors of El Salvador. This restaurant’s authentic taste and quality are evident. The food is delicious and well priced. It is a bit different than some of the spots nearby but totally worth the visit.
- Address - 2845 Imperial Avenue San Diego, CA 92102
- Contact - (619)231-8254
- Hours - Sunday through Friday 9 am to 7 pm
- Price - $-$$
- What To Try - Pupusas
- Menu
La Fachada
A long-time local favorite, there is nothing extravagant about the outside of this taco shop except for the food. Expect generous servings and a full stomach. The best authentic tacos in San Diego may be found here. It’s a favorite of the locals for a reason. Tacos don’t need an extravagant atmosphere or frills if they are authentically delicious and packed with flavor.
- Address - 20 25th St, San Diego, CA 92102
- Contact - (619)236-8566
- Hours - Everyday 6:30am to 1:30am
- Price - $
- What To Try - Carne Asada Taco
- Menu
Las Cuatro Milpas
Las Cuatro Milpas has become one of San Diego’s most famous and legendary Mexican Restaurants. One of the items to make them so popular is their fried tacos. They are served alongside red rice, and refried beans as they have been since they were first served in 1933. Do expect lines and understand that patience is rewarded. The experienced cooks here make sure you leave satisfied.
- Address - 1857 Logan Ave San Diego, CA 92113
- Contact - (619) 234-4460
- Hours - Monday through Friday 8:30 am to 3 pm, Saturday 6 am to 3 pm, Closed on Sunday
- Price - $
- What To Try - Fried Tacos
- Menu