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Mama Testa Taqueria
Cuisine: Mexican
Neighborhood: Hillcrest
1417 University Ave.
San Diego, CA 92103 (Map)
(619) 298-8226

Recommended by 1 local

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  • Laura G.   Laura G.
    01/08/07

    You might have thought the last thing San Diego needed was yet another taqueria, but that was before you tasted the El Cazo salsa at Mama Testa.

    So let’s start with the salsa bar. Yes, I realize that many local taquerias, particularly the chains, feature salsa bars to keep their patrons occupied while awaiting their entrees. But have you ever tried a tasty combination of tomatillo and parmesan or perhaps chile de arbol and sesame seed?

    Mama Testa, a colorful taqueria in Hillcrest, may just be your best Mexican restaurant option north of the border. The food is outstanding, original and authentic. Owner Cesar Gonzales will proudly explain the regional origin of each of his carefully-crafted dishes. One of my personal favorites is the Mojados de Pollo, rolled corn tortillas filled with chicken and floating in a tasty but mild chicken broth, but you certainly can’t go wrong with the simple Yucatecos, corn tortillas filled with marinated pork and served with habanero salsa.

    The place is comfortable and bright, with a subtle nod to the art of Mexican wrestling to give the place added character. Mama has recently acquired her beer license too, so you can wash down that chorizo or al pastor with a frosty cerveza.

    Oh, and did I mention the salsa bar?

    I do not have any connections with this business. I've been here dozens of times.
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