Maybe it's our proximity to the border, or how surf, sand and sopes make for an incredible match, but good Mexican food to San Diego locals is like Adam Lambert to women across America. If loving it is wrong, we don't want to be right.

Although the blurred, 2am taco-shop variety is always held in high regard, Latin cuisine in our fine city provides the foundation for some of the most sophisticated restaurants in Southern California. From the ultra-slick Candelas to the traditional El Agave in Old Town and the sexy Las Olas in Cardiff, these San Diego restaurants provide the ultimate Mexican dining experience, and don't forget the tequila... Ole!

Discover the top ten Mexican restaurants in San Diego.

Las Olas – Cardiff by the Sea
This small, open-aired restaurant on the Cardiff coast provides a casual environment, but it is anything but ordinary. Traditional dishes, hand-tossed margaritas, and a private party room have landed this little Latin joint to be featured in Conde Nast Traveler and listed as one of the “Sexiest Mexican Restaurants” by GQ Magazine. Further north, there is a Las Olas in Carlsbad.

El Callejon – Encinitas
This family-owned restaurant prepares recipes that have been passed down for generations. Their Tequila collection consists of over 750 different brands, and their margaritas are made with freshly squeezed limes (no mixes), and are argued to be the best in town. El Callejon is also located in Laguna Beach.

Candelas – Downtown
Candelas serves a sophisticated, Mexico City inspired menu, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients, and inventive, yet classic pairings. With “dos” locations, visit the stunning Candelas-on-the-Bay in Coronado for fine cuisine against a breathtaking view of downtown. (Gaslamp pictured)

Fidel’s Little Mexico – Solana Beach
Owned and operated by the Montanez family for over 45 years, Fidel’s is a sprawling, hacienda-style Mexican restaurant tucked away in a secluded Solana Beach neighborhood. Able to seat over 350 people on three levels including a festive courtyard, Fidel’s expansive menu offers traditional favorites as well as house specialties that will transport you South of the Border.

La Fiesta Restaurant – Downtown
Executive Chef Raul Delgadillo has gathered a selection of authentic regional dishes that have been prepared by word-of-mouth for generations. La Fiesta offers fresh seafood daily, and their vibrant décor captures the festive heritage of Mexico.

El Agave – Old Town
Since 1996, El Agave has dedicated its endeavors to the enhancement of Hispanic-Mexican heritage in the community, and has been chosen the “Best Mexican Restaurant” in San Diego by local publications year after year. The restaurant’s mole; a saucy mixture of chiles, chocolate, tomato, and cinnamon, is a staple in many dishes and always a crowd favorite. (pictured)

El Fandango – Old Town
Coining “For the romantic and adventurous gourmet,” El Fandango is a historically-interpretive restaurant that features a menu designed for the era of 1846 to 1856, when cattle and other land herd was introduced to the local Indians. But, the seafood here is still worth the visit.

Chilango’s – Hillcrest
Preparing authentic Mexico City grill in a vibrant, cultural setting, Chilango’s menu items include signature dishes such as Chile en Nogada Lizeth: roasted poblano pepper stuffed with ground sirloin, banana, peaches, raisins, and cherry liqueur topped with a creamy walnut sauce and fresh strawberries. Delicioso!

Frida – Chula Vista
Infusing old world recipes with a modern vibe in a spacious gallery-like setting, Frida's menu features Tacos Del Guero, Filete Tentacion, Pescado a la Talla and Ensalada de Nopalitos; dishes that are rarely found in American restaurants. Frida also has locations in Beverly Hills, Brentwood and Glendale. (pictured below)

Jose’s – La Jolla
Amid a sea of swanky boutiques and gourmet eateries in downtown La Jolla is Jose’s Court Room, a colorful Mexican restaurant with a casual ambiance and huge menu of classic favorites. The Carne Asada “Jose” serves 8oz. of marinated filets broiled to your taste, served with a cheese enchilada and side of guacamole. More favorites include Chile Verde, Fajitas and Open Flame Skewers. Jose’s is open late every night of the week, and easily doubles as a sports bar with plenty of Hi-def plasma TVs.

More Top Picks: La Puerta Downtown, Gringo’s Cantina in Pacific Beach, Fred's in Old Town, Ortega’s Bistro in Hillcrest, and the brand new El Vitral in East Village.

Discover more San Diego restaurants and new trend updates and top ten lists in our San Diego dining blog.