Palomino's Mexican & Seafood in San Diego has garnered enthusiastic reviews, making it a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Mexican cuisine. Customers rave about the generous portions and mouthwatering flavors that leave them longing for more. Erin Anderson shared that their pastor plate was not only delicious but also ample, highlighting the restaurant's attentiveness to dietary preferences, such as omitting dairy from her beans.
Many patrons appreciate the friendly service and relaxed atmosphere that enhances the dining experience. Marian TO expressed amazement at the quality of food, emphasizing that the delightful flavors will surely bring her back for more. The breakfast offerings, as noted by Mel Boone, are diverse and satisfying, making it a perfect spot for a weekend brunch.
Steven Heath’s love for their carne asada and heartfelt support for this family-owned gem add to the restaurant's charm. Despite parking difficulties, the culinary rewards at Palomino’s Mexican & Seafood far outweigh any inconvenience. For those near UCSD or just exploring San Diego, a visit here promises a delightful culinary adventure that combines both flavor and heart.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Service options
Has no-contact delivery
Offers delivery
On-site services available
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fast service
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Serves late-night food
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has catering
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Popular with university students
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Paid street parking
Plenty of parking
Photos
Reviews For Palomino's Mexican & Seafood
Erin Anderson
Jun 22,2025
We came in because my son was in the hospital at UCSD. The food was so good we made two trips here and hung out. I had the pastor plate and it was so much food!! Delicious and they didn't mind leaving dairy off of my beans. If we're ever in San Diego again we'll definitely stop in! And if you're at UCSD for anything, make the walk down and have great tacos!
Jesse Hafen
Jun 6,2025
I ate in. The beans and rice are very good; I don't remember the entre I had but it was good. The service was friendly. Overall a pleasant place to be. There are "spich eerf" there - keep it on the dl.
Marian TO
May 28,2025
I was at a lost for words, the food here was truly amazing. We will be coming back here, because it was soooooo good and portions are very nice, you will definitely be full.
Mel Boone
May 7,2025
I've been coming here mostly for weekend breakfast. Food choices thus far have been to my liking. We will continue to return as there are so many options to choose from.
Steven Heath
May 1,2025
El Cuervo is one of my favorite family owned Mexican mom and pops. Their carne asada is marinated well with what I believe are hot carrots and pico. The Carne Asada Chimichanga is huge and tastes amazingly juicy, cheesy and delicious. I’ve also had their carne asada sans tortilla so it’s an option if you don’t want the carbs. Also just had the plain carne asada burrito in the past and it’s tasty. El Cuervo is also my workplace’s favorite place for breakfast burritos. We order the Chorizo, Carne Asada, Bacon and Machaca burritos and they cut them in half or thirds if we ask them to. Also love their salsa bar - pico and the red sauce are my faves. This is a typical counter service restaurant and the service is friendly and typically prompt. There is plenty of seating snd, except occasionally at the lunch hour, I’ve rarely had trouble finding a table here. While this place isn’t as popular as some of the more trendy and Mexican places around San Diego it’s absolutely one of my favorite go-to’s. Parking can be a bit of a challenge at times now that they no longer have the lot immediately adjacent to the restaurant anymore but it’s worth it.
Nolan Lamson
Apr 17,2025
I live in Colorado, we have decent Mexican food but California especially southern cal blows us out of a he water. I love going to any random place like this that has the stand up ordering with a big menu and decent prices I just love it. And it may be because it’s been a few months but the cali burrito I got was top tier, like top 5 of my life and I’ve had lots. I got a bean and cheese to take home but I’m stuffed so I hope I get to it tonight. Great friendly and quick service
Dana Christianson
Apr 15,2025
Absolutely the best carne asada ever. My wife and I used to live in the apartments at the other side of the parking lot when we first got married...back when it was called El Cuervo. It is the Mexican food all other Mexican restaurants aspire to. Whenever we are back in town, we have to go there.
Aned Muniz Gracia
Mar 24,2025
Loved El Cuervo for over 25 years, it changed ownership and don't have pico de gallo in their salsa bar anymore. I was addicted to their pico de gallo, I would have bought it by the gallon if possible. They kept most of the old menu so it has a great variety of meat, fish and meatless options. My favorite are the potato rolled tacos but whatever "a la diabla" might still be worth exploring.
Reviews For Palomino's Mexican & Seafood