Puesto

Chowing down on tacos and margaritas with a big group of friends is a rite of passage in San Diego, and Puesto delivers on both counts. There’s nearly a dozen varieties of margs, and an equal number of taco options, a quartet of Mexican-style beers brewed at their Mission Valley cervecería, plus mezcal and tequila flights. The restaurant includes three semi-private indoor dining rooms and two patios, which can be combined to accommodate from 12 to 200 seated diners.
How to book: Reservations for up to ten can be made via OpenTable. For larger groups, call 619-233-8880 or fill out their online form.

Puesto Cervecería is the largest in Puesto’s collection of restaurants and features its first craft brewery. Spearheaded by longtime San Diego brewer Doug Hasker, who led Gordon Biersch’s program for more than 20 years, the cervecería specializes in Mexican-style lagers, like Puesto Celebration Cerveza, made especially for its 10th anniversary celebration, Puesto Negra (GABF Silver Medalist), and Cinco de Mayo Pilsner. You can find them at Puesto’s other California locations as well. Reservations can be made online and walk-ins are accepted if seating is available. Check the individual location for to go options.

Refreshing, tropical cocktails are the name of the game at Puesto, where you can lounge among fire pits on the large outdoor patio at the Marina District location, or snag a seat on the sidewalk patio for some people-watching at the La Jolla or Mission Valley locations. If you’re stuck on what to order, the Puesto Perfect Margarita with fresh lime and organic agave syrup, or a malt-forward Mexican-style lager, brewed at the Mission Valley cerveceria are solid choices. Hit them up on Taco Tuesdays for $2.50 off all tacos and $5 Puesto drafts.
How to book: Check their website for each location's hours and reservations. Walk-ins are accepted if seating is available.