8 San Diego Restaurants Doing Caribbean Food Right

New York has its hero sandwich. New Jersey does subs. Philly loves a hoagie. In the Caribbean, Latinos love their aperitivos (appetizers).

Though far from the islands, San Diego has a solid Caribbean food scene. From cuchifritos to mofongo, there’s no shortage of Cuban, Dominican, and Puerto Rican restaurants. Here are our favorites. [pagebreak]

Havana Grill

The Cuban classics and Puerto Rican apps served at this welcoming spot are well known among locals looking for authentic Caribbean fare. “This is the real deal,” says Havana Grill owner, Sandra Cardet, who greets you table side during your meal. 

Tropical Star

With just five tables and a discreet location inside a strip mall, this surprising pick made our list thanks to its gold mine of an appetizer menu. Next door is an Asian-Latino fusion venue run by the same owners and also worth checking out. 

Embargo Grill 

Mofongo, house-made sangria, and insanley cheap happy hour prices are the hooks at this fun San Diego spot. And if you have room after your aperitivos, try one of Embargo Grill’s Jamaican or Brazilian dishes. [pagebreak]

Azúcar Cuban Style Patisserie 

Jamón croquetas and pastelito de guayaba con queso are top selling dishes at this San Diego spot. Balance your meal with something sweet or a savory picadillo stuffed empanadilla. 

Caribbean Escape

This gourmet food truck boasts a small’ish menu that fuses classis Latin and Caribbean foods. Locations change often; check their calendar for daily outposts.

Andrés Restaurant

This casual spot has a truly astounding collection of Puerto Rican appetizers and a Latin food market on the corner. Put some time aside, though, if you’re planning a visit. Service can be a bit slow. [pagebreak]

Los Pollos Rotisserie & Cuban Bakery

About 15 minutes south of downtown San Diego is Chula Vista, where this Cuban mainstay does old school cafe and Cubanos as well as anyone on the island. 

El Salvadoreños

Tucked inside a residential neighborhood, this Colombian meets Mexican outpost is a neighborhood spot that has become destination dining for those seeking legit Latin food. While it’s not Caribbean, the fact that one of the countries guiding its flavors has a coastline along the Caribbean means its food is strongly influenced by Caribbean fare. Try the platano relleno con carne and the sopa de camarones.