Cocina De Barrio, nestled in Encinitas, CA, is a vibrant Mexican restaurant that has garnered rave reviews for its lively atmosphere and innovative cuisine. Diners frequently praise their mezcal cocktails, highlighting the well-crafted drinks that elevate the dining experience. One reviewer, a mezcal connoisseur from Guanajuato, described them as "soo good" and lauded the refreshing ceviche paired with optional spicy salsa macha, creating a perfect balance.Brunch enthusiasts also flock to this hotspot, drawn in by adorable drink presentations and unique dishes like enmoladas, which have impressed newcomers. Guests have deemed Cocina De Barrio their favorite spot in North County San Diego, thanks to the excellent service and prime location with ample parking.Happy Hour is another highlight, featuring unbeatable deals on drinks and plates, including the must-try jalapeño barrio margarita and freshly made guacamole. The focus on freshness and flavor, paired with a casual yet chic vibe, makes it an inviting destination for food lovers. Whether you seek authentic Mexican flavors or modern interpretations, Cocina De Barrio promises a delightful culinary journey that keeps patrons coming back for more.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Has fast service
Has great beer selection
Serves great cocktails
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Serves happy-hour drinks
Serves small plates
Serves spirits
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Has table service
Amenities
Has bar on site
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Trendy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Photos
Reviews For Cocina De Barrio
luan 2lu
Jun 29,2025
We had drinks with mezcal (Soo good) I had 4!! I'm from Gunanjuato so I know my mezcal!! We got the ceviche amazing not spicy they do give you extra salsa macha so you can add the spicy!! In not mad at it it was delicious!!! The fish tacos were so good too!!! And the corn bread was solo good!! Next time I should try the coffee but with the drinks I was feeling happy happy!! Highly recommend!! They have plenty of parking too what are you waiting for go get some food!!
Maria
Jun 20,2025
My girlfriends and I came here for brunch, and the drinks were incredibly cute. The food was amazing too! I had never tried Enmoladas before, but they were delicious. I’m definitely coming back to try the rest of the menu.
Ricardo Villarreal
Jun 19,2025
This is my favorite Mexican restaurant in North County San Diego. The food and drinks are great, the service fantastic, and the place is at a great location with plenty of parking. And if you go during Happy Hour, their deals are hard to beat.
Cherilyn Jones
Jun 2,2025
Excellent happy hour. Highly recommend Jalepeno barrio margarita. 5 on HH. The guacamole is delish. I have tried the mango habanero shrimo aquachile, the striped bass ceviche, and the trompo tacos. All were Amazing! The HH 3-5 pm and it’s a great deal.
Melissa Branum
May 24,2025
Drinks are amazing! Good food not super traditional Mexican food but we enjoyed it. Definitely order the guacamole which is made to order table side. They have Happy Hour as well. Great Service!
Aloha SD
May 24,2025
With all the classic up and coming restaurants in Encinitas to choose from, Cocina de Barrio has quickly become one of our favorites, and for good reason. Every time we visit — now seven times and counting — the food hits the mark. They really never miss. Their Oaxacan-style dishes are packed with rich, layered flavors that feel both authentic and elevated. From tender mole to perfectly cooked tlayudas and infladita de barbacoa to lamb birria — every plate shows real care, balance, and craftsmanship. It’s the kind of food that keeps you thinking about your next visit before you even leave. And, the drinks are pretty awesome too. The service is just as impressive. Every staff member we’ve encountered has been warm, attentive, and genuinely excited about what they’re serving. They make the experience feel personal without being overbearing, and every detail — from pacing to presentation — is on point. Huge shoutout to the coolest dude who made our tableside guacamole oaxaqueno tonight! I’m bummed I didn’t get his name but he was so kind and sweet to my 8 year-old as he explained how he’s mixing each ingredient, that he truly made her night! We wanted to give him an additional tip after our dinner but I couldn’t find him! Hopefully he’s still there when we return soon! Thank you so much, Cocina de Barrio!
Stephanie McVitty
May 15,2025
Such an amazing place and in the middle of San Diego. Food was absolutely amazing... omg we enjoyed every bite. I’m not a huge fan of Mexican breakfast but I am NOW!! Service was wonderful- everyone was friendly and helpful!! We will be back!! Thank you!
Connor McMorrow
Mar 14,2025
Great on all fronts - awesome cocktails, delicious food, and fun vibes. Their tequila and mezcal selection is impressive, and the drinks are just as good as they look. The portions are generous, and everything we tried hit the spot, but the highlight was definitely the table-side guacamole - fresh, personalized, flavorful, and fun to experience it being made right in front of you. The atmosphere inside is lively and welcoming, perfect for a night out. We’ll definitely be back!
Reviews For Cocina De Barrio