El Indio Mexican Restaurant, San Diego

Good San Diego style mexican food at a great location. Indoor or outdoor dining on paper plates. It is on the way to the Airport so it is a great casual stop if you've just picked someone up or are about to go yourself. My son's and I frequently take outdoor a step farther by driving several blocks south and parking right in the flight path of the landing planes. They are very near the ground and the vortex from the wing tips, if you're lucky, witll sometimes catch the palm trees and shake them (you can take your hat off). There are other restaurants in this litltle alcove (India Street off Washington, just up from I-5): Thai, English Pub, Italian ice, and so forth.

Favorite Dish: I always get the special. Keeps me from getting in a rut.

Dress is casual and bring the kids.
Back in the late 50s my Mom took me to this great place. They fed the employees of world largest aircraft manufacturing plant during World War Two. It is a family owned restaurant since 1940. They cook and grind corn to make their (fresh great aroma) corn tortillas. Coined the word "taquito" for the rolled taco. All food is made from scratch. No animal lard is used. All food is made when ordered and is abundant and of high quality. Dining indoors and outdoors. Beer and wine is available for consumption indoors. El Indio has shipped its famous tortilla chips to many countries in the world. Three U.S. presidents have ordered food to be sent to Washington D.C. Taquitos, chicken burritos and meatless items are very popular. Combination plates are all served with refried pinto beans and Mexican rice. Visa and Mastercard are accepted. Open seven days a week and closed only on New Year's Day, Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. It is worth waiting in line.

Favorite Dish: Favorite Dish: That’s a tough one. Taquitos are for quick and lite appetite. If I’m really hungry? A Beef and Bean Burrito. I very seldom get the combination plates because of the extra cost. Plus I stay away from the Tortilla Chips because of the calories. But then I always take home Corn Tortillas, Chile Relleno and Tamales. OOPS

Lots of good mexican food places. El Indio taco shop. Check the Thursday paper or the Reader magazine for cupons. Lamont grill on Lamont st. in Pacific Beach is nice upscale place. The HOLIDAY INN on 1st st near 5 fway has great view dining. Avoid eating in Gaslamp unloess you have a cupon or money is no issue, in that case go to the grill on 1 harbor drive near 4th st- $50 up. The fish market near seaport village is nice.

El Indio on India St just northeast of Lindbergh Field
We've been going to El Indio for three decades, watching the tortilla-making machines, savoring the pungent aromas. Mmmm. It's always a special treat to go there.

Favorite Dish: rolled tacos (taquitos)