Name: Jimmy Carter's Mexican Cafe
Address: 3172 5th Ave, San Diego, CA, 92103, US
Telephone: (619) 295-2070
Rating: 4.9

Jimmy Carter's Cantina is the place you never knew you wanted to be. The bar itself is a cozy, comfortable and welcoming. We offer a small selection of local brews from Stone and Lightening breweries as well as a healthy selection of spirits. As the business in our bar matures, we are transitioning away from bigger micro-labels to smaller-batch liquors and distributors.

Made with freshly squeezed lemon/lime juice with a hint of agave syrup, our hand-crafted margaritas are easily the best margaritas in town! Not a fan of traditional margaritas? Be sure to try our one-of-a-kind Spicy Serrano or Crisp Cucumber Margaritas. Feeling adventurous? Ask one of our talented mixologists to craft something to your taste.

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About Us Report

Jimmy Carter's Mexican Cafe is an eatery that transcends the normal bounds of a simple restaurant. Instead of just your typical Mexican food restaurant, this amazing venue has become the kind of place where people can gather, share news, relax, drink, dine and feel welcome every time. The amazing ambiance of this restaurant is thanks in part, to Jimmy Carter himself.

Breakfast Report

Served 'til 2:30 p.m. ~ Served with one complimentary basket of chips and salsa upon request. All omelettes are made with 3 eggs and are served with toast and your choice of grilled potatoes, hash browns or fresh fruit - OR - rice, beans and tortillas. All scrambles are made with 2 eggs and are served with toast and your choice of grilled potatoes, hash browns or fresh fruit - OR - rice, beans and tortillas.

Lunch Report

An order of four jalapeno poppers stuffed in-house, these are not like any other popper you've had! Served with a side of ranch. A rich, dark brown sauce made with roasted chiles, a hint of chocolate and the perfect balance of spices. Mild in heat. A spicy sauce with a special texture that accents each of the key ingredients: Serrano, tomato, and cilantro.

Reviews (10)

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Shayne Hatch

Jan 31, 2022

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The food and cocktails were, Amazing! I needed that margarita, the other two I drank we're even better. The Art by Tali, is absolutely beautiful. Will be back again.

Renu Vamdatt

Dec 28, 2021

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Authentic Mexican food, great atmosphere and very friendly staff. Steven took excellent care of us and made great recommendations. We loved the Tlaquapeque sauce and guava margarita!

Scott Halerz

Dec 24, 2021

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Was it life-changing? No. Was it delicious? Yes. The salsa is legit. Our server (sadly, I forgot his name) was awesome and over-accomodating. I'll definitely be back.

Marta Aliberti

Nov 13, 2021

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Up the street from the park and bridge is this slice of Mexico. Delicious no matter what you choose to eat. There was many of us. Sorry no pics. But you can't go wrong with Jimmy Carter's, his chef's the real deal

C. Ketcham

Sep 25, 2021

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I walked in and was not expecting to have the best burrito of my life. I decided to have it covered in the chipotle cream sauce, which by it self is okay, but all together this burrito had flavor, texture, size and was absolutely perfection. A wonderful surprise.

Juan Garcia

Jul 29, 2021

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Good food but a bit spicy, too many jalapeños not enough meat. But good flavor and the coffee is great too

Javier Cota

Aug 15, 2020

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This was a great discovery for my wife and I as we were driving around looking for a good place to find Mexican food. The Chile Verde plate was delicious and the taquitos, addicting!! The service was friendly and welcoming and the outdoor dining was enjoyable

Crissy Leen

Jun 28, 2020

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Yesterday I was literally leaving my nail appointment and rushing to a meeting but oh boy like a cartoon that aroma coming from Jimmy Carter’s was grabbing me. Unfortunately I had to rush. So we decided coming today for dinner.
Loving staff and atmosphere. All decor brings you closer to Mexico. Colorful walls, authentic ceramics and just that Latino charm. Ok let’s talk about the menu. So many options and btw delicious. So much flavors and spice options to choose. I order a corn and cheese with chicken. Came even with guacamole, salad, rice, beans..all so good. We will be back for more yummy

Matt Williams

Sep 06, 2019

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Excellent service, Tara was my waitress. Outdoor seating is available and there is a separate bar area. Steak and chicken fajitas are really good. They serve chips and salsa for the table. I will definitely return when I am in the San Diego area. I used a Groupon so it was a really good deal.

Rene Najera

Dec 31, 2018

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Mexican food like it should be. Have you ever walked into a place where the employees greet you but you just know they're not being sincere? This is not the place. You know they're happy to see you. They want to serve you the best food their kitchen can put out, and they deliver.
I was in San Diego for a conference and someone recommended Jimmy Carter's for breakfast. I made the mile trip (walking) and it was well worth it. The chorizo scramble was just the right serving size, along with rice and your choice of black or pinto beans. Corn tortillas sealed the deal. It was delicious, nutritious