San Diego Mexican Food Reviews

4246 Bonita Rd
Bonita, CA 91902
(619) 267-4577 (map)
Official website

Bottomline - A seafood bar/taco shop hybrid with unique flavors. Delicious.

This is a tiny little place, and is often packed. Just accept that's the way it is and don't worry about the limited seating, and don't be afraid to grab a stool at the counter. If you are like me you'll be enjoying the food enough that you won't even notice the cramped quarters. In fact I suggest snagging the stools at the bar so you can watch all the action as everything is cooked right in front of you.

Also, don't get locked into the "oyster bar" idea. Yes, they serve oysters but that's a small part of the menu. Seafood cocktails, tacos, tostadas, and whole fish. One specialty item is the "Aquachile" - A stone bowl filled with raw shrimp drowned in lemon juice and hot chile, accompanied by onions and cucumbers. I haven't tried that, but word on the street is that it is indeed rather hot.

So why is this a stand out? The flavors. The fresh fish and ceviche taste really fresh. The garlic shrimp are an honest garlic experience. The marlyn (smoked fish) tacos are in your face smokey and fishy. The ceviches are full of citrus but the fresh fish flavor still comes through.

Personally I don't like the red sauce they serve, but I thought everything was fine without it. I'd also steer you away from the tacos with cheese, but maybe that's just me.

The folks running TJ Oyster Bar are actually from Tijuana. So while many of the items may have been tweaked for a gringo palette, it's all grounded in authentic Mexican food. And it has a flavor you may not have experienced if you haven't been to a Mexican style seafood bar or ceviche place. I do think a bit of the raw edge has been taken off, and the recipes are certainly geared towards Americans. But that's fine. This food is delicious.

Part of me wants to pass on the review and keep this tiny place a hidden gem. Oh well. If you want to try a great Mexican style fresh fish bar, this is a great place to do that.