El Cilantro: Authentic Mexican Seafood Delights in El Cajon

Love this place. We probably hit it up 2-3 times per month and always buy a ton of food. Prices have been climbing but they're still a better deal than other spots nearby. The food is always delicious. Love their birria and al pastor tacos, the surf and turf burrito, the carne asada fries, literally everything we've had here is always good. The staff are also helpful and understanding when I'm ordering for my picky kids. Also I like that in the drive thru they will include a container of spicy carrots and drink cup full of salsa for us. The photo here is of the birria taco I got yesterday as I was trying the birria at a couple different local spots to see who had the best. Personally I think el cilantro wins.

I've ordered food twice and it has yet to disappoint. The guacamole was creamy and I had tacos both times

Omg tacos estilo Tijuana ! These tacos are so delicious, the staff is wonderful! We went late at night and the young girl attending the cash register was such a sweetheart.

Surf & turf burrito with super light rice!!! So yummy Ask for light rice if not they'll stuff it with rice instead lol

This is one of the most authentic hole in the wall joint in SD/East county. Love their fish tacos, the portion is generous and it's only a buck daily as of Dec 2023. Can't beat that deal. Service is ok, it can be slow but they are constantly busy so it's not that they aren't trying. I cannot wait to try more of other stuff, including their caldo de res, cocktail de camaron etc.

***LEMON GROVE LOCATION*** This is our 2nd time visiting El Cilantro in Lemon Grove grand opening. Located right next to Mariscos & a smoke shop. It's the little strip right off the hwy 94 E exit college Ave exit on your right. There's a Yum yum donuts & Hinta Japanese restaurant as well. The food & drinks are basic like bar food not bad though. Good drinks & there's a also live bands some nights, like tonight 9/30. Fight was playing on the TV. The cost of the food is reasonable as with the drinks. Full house but if you just want food can order to go at counter near the entrance. Art decor on the walls is beautiful. The place is clean. Downside is the parking in this mall can be pretty scarce & tight. However, twice I found good spots not too far from the restaurant. Service is pleasant most of the ladies seem very nice. With the exception of one.