La Corriente La Jolla

Where most La Jolla Mexican spots lean into familiar territory, La Corriente operates like a proper marisquería. The raw bar drives the menu here — think snapper tostadas with citrus cure, soft shell crab tacos with pickled radish, chowder that pulls from both Mexican and Pacific Northwest traditions. This isn't the place for tableside guac and frozen margaritas; it's for ceviche variations and mezcal neat.

The space leans into design details that feel more Mexico City than San Diego — patterned wallpaper, custom glassware, a bar built for lingering. It's polished without the coastal-contemporary formula that dominates Prospect Street. The outdoor seating works for groups who want conversation without competing with crashing waves.

Service moves with intention rather than speed. Servers know the menu cold and will steer you right on preparations — trust them when they suggest grilled over fried. The whole grilled octopus comes properly charred; order it if your table can commit to sharing. Wine and beer lists favor natural producers and Mexican craft breweries.

Expect to spend more than you would at a beach taco shop, less than the white-tablecloth spots closer to the cove. Reservations matter here, especially Thursday through Saturday. Street parking on Pearl requires patience during prime hours — the municipal lot two blocks up usually has availability.

The kitchen doesn't chase volume. Dishes arrive when they're ready, which means your table might get three plates, then wait, then two more. If you need everything at once, say so upfront. What you lose in synchronization you gain in quality — nothing comes out rushed or compromised.