Ever since my kids were young, we’ve been taking them to Old Town, San Diego to enjoy rich history, museums, historic sites, shops, and restaurants. And it’s hard not to be drawn to the sounds of music, visually bright colors and festive décor of Bazaar Del Mundo. One of our long-time favorite places to dine has been at Casa Guadalajara as it has been popular with both locals and visitors for over 30 years.
Handmade Tortillas at Casa Guadalajara
One of the highlights of visiting Casa Guadalajara is watching the tortilla ladies in action. They roll, press, and grill fresh corn and flour tortillas right in front of you. Each one comes off the comal warm and soft. On average, each lady makes 1,500 tortillas – that’s approximately 1.1 million since they’ve opened. And honestly, they make both kinds so well, it’s impossible to choose a favorite.
What to Order at Casa Guadalajara
It’s hard to make a recommendation on a dish to get, because with 30 years’ experience, you’ll find everything on the menu is delicious. The portions are generous and it is not likely that you will go home hungry. But if I may, some of my favorites include:
- Chipotle Chicken Taquitos – the combination of pulled chicken, cheese, guacamole and roasted salsa is great appetizer for sharing.
- Carne Asada Tampiqueña – not only do you get a generous portion of care asada topped with caramelized onions at Casa Guadalajara, but a cheesy enchilada, refried beans and rice.
- Grilled Fish Tacos – if you’ve not tried a fish taco before, get the mahi mahi tacos with cabbage and salsa blanca.
- Fajitas – chicken, beef, shrimp, or vegetarian, all of those options plus combinations are on the menu.
Don’t Miss the Birdbath Margarita
The drinks at Casa Guadalajara are just as festive and creative as the food. The showstopper is still the Birdbath Margarita. It’s huge, colorful, and definitely photo-worthy. Having a friend to help finish it is advisable.
The Décor Is Part of the Experience
From the second you enter through the courtyard and outside patio, you’re enveloped by the warm décor and color. There is so much attention to detail at Casa Guadalajara. It starts with the hand-painted tiles, carved wood accents, stained glass roof, and lush greenery. On a warm day, you should sit outside in the outdoor courtyard (it is especially charming). It has a massive shade tree right in the middle and a fountain nearby. And it’s a great place to get a family photo.
Diane Powers and the Bazaar del Mundo Restaurants
Casa Guadalajara is part of the Bazaar del Mundo family, started and run by Diane Powers. It includes three restaurants (Casa Guadalajara in Old Town, Casa de Pico in La Mesa, Casa de Bandini in Carlsbad) and stores in Old Town, San Diego. Since the restaurant can get really busy, I’d advise that you make a reservation.
Old Town has the same warm and colorful neighborhood as North Park, and is always a good place to visit.
