National Guacamole Day is September 16th
 |
| Sandbar Mission Nachos (courtesy photo) |
Fonda del Barrio in the cultural district of Barrio Logan opened just a few weeks ago, and you can start your meal with Guacamole con Totopos from Executive Chef Eduardo Baeza. Enjoy freshly tossed house guacamole made with lime juice and herbs, and crowned with serrano chile slivers. Pair it with a cocktail from Lead Bartender Rudy Corona, and celebrate this hacienda-like spot that pays homage to the cuisine of mainland Mexico.
Kick off the fiesta at Hasta Mañana Cantina, where the Baja spirit is alive in every bite. Here, guacamole isn’t just an add-on—it’s a star player. From classic Guac and Chips to their legendary California Burrito stuffed with the good green stuff, there’s no shortage of ways to indulge. For a true showstopper, sink your fork into the Grilled Skirt Steak, paired with guacamole, salsa fresca, charred green onions, warm tortillas, and all the fixings. Top it all off with a frosty margarita, soak up the colorful, high-energy vibes, and let the fiesta roll.
La Mesa Village’s Casa Gabriela and Executive Chef Gaby Lopez present Guacamole de la Casa, featuring tajin chicharrones, pepitas, and queso fresco. Dive into this Mexican favorite while sipping on a cocktail and sitting in the restaurant’s outdoor tequila garden. Doors open at 3:30 p.m., and happy hour runs from 3:30 – 5:30 p.m.
Searching for the ultimate brunch vibe? Look no further than The Duck Dive, Pacific Beach’s go-to neighborhood beach lounge and eatery. This surf-inspired hotspot brings the laid-back coastal lifestyle to the table with a menu that celebrates fresh, flavorful American coastal cuisine. A must-try is the Baja Cobb - crisp romaine tossed in your favorite dressing and loaded with shrimp, black beans, roasted corn, boiled egg, cherry tomato pico, roasted poblanos, queso fresco, jalapeño crema, and of course, a generous scoop of guacamole. Or you could opt for the simple Chips & Guac - housemade guacamole served with fresh tortilla chips. It’s brunch with a SoCal twist.
For a taco experience that breaks the mold, make your way to City Tacos, where Mexican street food gets a bold, modern twist. Their standout Caribbean Salmon taco is a flavor-packed masterpiece: tender grilled salmon kissed with citrus achiote spice, layered over velvety guacamole, and topped with crisp arugula, cucumber, onion, tomato, and juicy pineapple. A drizzle of creamy serrano chili salsa and a dusting of cotija cheese tie it all together—delivering a taco that’s bright, fresh, and a true burst of sunshine in every bite.
Soak up Southern California’s coastal charm at Sandbar Sportsbar & Grill, in Mission Beach. Dig into their House Made Guacamole, crafted with ripe avocado, onion, pico de gallo, lime juice, and served with crisp house chips. For something heartier, the Mission Nachos are a must - piled high with mixed cheese, soyrizo queso, beans, guacamole, pico de gallo, sour cream, jalapeños, and your choice of protein. Pair it all with a drink and the ocean view, and you’ve got beachside dining at its best.
In the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, barleymash cranks up the energy with elevated comfort food and an atmosphere that’s always buzzing. Known for blending two beloved staples—beer and bourbon—this lively eatery and sports bar has become a downtown favorite. For the ultimate shareable indulgence, don’t miss the San Diego Iron Fries: a heaping pile smothered in red chili–braised short rib, pepper jack beer cheese sauce, spicy guacamole, sour cream, and salsa fresca. Bold, messy, and made to share—it’s the perfect match for barleymash’s high-energy vibe.
No matter how you scoop it, spread it, or pile it high, San Diego is turning guacamole into a full-blown celebration. These spots prove that this creamy, zesty favorite isn’t just a side - it’s the star of the show, and every bite is a little fiesta in itself.
