Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
oChef » Agave – San Diego
Agave - San Diego
Photo from Agave
Agave at a glance
San Diego Point Loma
- 🌮 Mexican Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $11–$20
mentioned by 48 of the guests
#593 out of 755 places to eat in San Diego
#82 Mexican Restaurant out of 113 in San Diego
Good
6.1 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
297
Reviews
54.9%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Delicious food
- Friendly staff
- Clean setting
Frequently criticized
- High prices
- Service issues
- No restrooms
The restaurant, a vibrant Mexican eatery in San Diego’s Point Loma neighborhood, offers you a taste of authentic flavors. Whether you’re craving a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Agave provides a convenient drive-through option for those on the go.
You can enjoy delicious tacos and more, making it a perfect stop for any time of day. This spot is known for its casual atmosphere and welcoming vibe.
Overview: Introducting Agave
Agave offers a dining experience where the culinary offerings often hit the mark, with many appreciating the quality of the dishes. Guests frequently commend the friendly staff and the generally clean environment, contributing to a pleasant visit.
However, some visitors find the pricing a bit steep, particularly for certain items, leading to concerns about overall value. There are also occasional remarks about inconsistent service and practical issues like the lack of restrooms.
Good
6.1
out of 10
297
Reviews
54.9%
Satisfaction
106
negative
28
neutral
163
positive
Agave holds a respectable overall Restaurant Score of 6.1, placing it squarely in the average category. Customer feedback, gathered from 297 opinions, shows a Customer Satisfaction of 54.9%, indicating a mixed reception.
While not outstanding, these figures suggest a place that generally meets expectations for many, but leaves room for improvement for others. Delving deeper, Food stands out with a score of (6.6), receiving the most positive comments.
Service (5.9) and Ambience (5.8) also land in the average range, with many appreciating the attentive staff and refreshed surroundings. The primary area for concern appears to be Value, scoring (3.3), which suggests pricing might not always align with customer expectations.
What people like
- Delicious food variety
- Welcoming, friendly staff
- Clean, pleasant setting
What people don't like
- High prices, extra charges
- Inconsistent service hours
- No customer restrooms
Agave presents a mixed experience, with its culinary offerings often praised for their flavor and variety. If you prioritize tasty dishes and a generally pleasant atmosphere, you’ll likely find something to enjoy here.
However, be mindful of the pricing and potential service inconsistencies, especially regarding closing times or extra charges. With a Recommendation Score of 6.4, it’s a place worth considering if you manage expectations around value and convenience.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Agave
Food (6.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 95% of the guests
When it comes to the food, many diners have found a lot to love, with 117 positive remarks highlighting delicious items like birria tacos, breakfast burritos, and authentic Mexican food. Guests often praise the great flavor, fresh food, and huge portions, making for a satisfying meal experience. However, some experiences were less stellar, with 57 negative comments mentioning issues like overly salty meat, concerns about food poisoning, and some finding dishes inedible.
There were also complaints about inconsistent portion size and a vegetarian menu that wasn't always truly vegetarian.
Food
192
Reviews
60%
Satisfaction
57
negative
18
neutral
117
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Authentic Mexican flavors
- Generous portion sizes
- Fresh, delicious ingredients
What people don't like
- Inconsistent food quality
- Overly salty dishes
- Misleading vegetarian options
Often praised
- foodMy experience at this restaurant had a rocky start, but the food is on point now. I've tried the breakfast burrito, nachos, and torta, and all of them were amazing.
- FoodSo about half of the items on their vegetarian menu (all those made with beans) aren't actually vegetarian. Food is good otherwise.
- churrosthe churros are incredible
- potato rolled tacosRating the potato rolled tacos only: generous sour cream, good green salsa, good amount of toppings!
- tacosThe best tacos I’ve ever had in my entire 40 years on this earth.
- birria tacosbeef broth and birria tacos, super delicious
- breakfast burritobest breakfast burrito I’ve had in years
- burritosMassive burritos and portion sizes!!!
- carne asadaI’ve tried the birria, pollo asado, carne asada, and the carnitas, all of which were quite tasty.
- carne asada burritoThe carne asada burrito is one of the best
Frequently criticized
- burritothe last burrito I had before they closed, i couldn't even eat because it was PURE SALT
- guacamoleguacamole was squeezed out of a pre made package
- hashbrown burritohashbrown burrito which to our surprise contained no hashbrowns
- ricerice tasted like it was cooked with cleaning supplies
- rolled tacosLOL, 10 dollars for 5 rolled tacos with guac and the essentials. What a joke.
- Birria tacoover the Birria taco
- California burritoThe California burrito leaves a lot of room for improvement
- Mexican foodThis place feels like a corporate-owned business trying to disguise itself as a family-owned taco shop. Do not eat here if you want even remotely decent Mexican food.
- agave burritopretty hard to mess up a burrito but congrats you managed to find a way
- bean and cheese burritosbean and cheese burritos had barely any cheese
The food here receives an average score of 6.6 and mixed customer satisfaction at 60.9%, based on 192 opinions. While there are some standout dishes and flavors worth trying, be mindful of potential inconsistencies in quality and preparation.
Service (5.9 out of 10)
mentioned by 61% of the guests
Looking at the service, many folks have had some really pleasant interactions! Out of 56 customer remarks, 29 highlighted positive experiences. Guests often praise the friendly staff, quick service, and overall good customer service, with many appreciating specific employees like Adriana.
It seems the team often goes the extra mile to be welcoming and efficient, especially in the drive-thru. However, the picture isnt entirely rosy, as 21 comments pointed to some bumps in the road. The overall score for service sits at an average 5.9, with customer satisfaction at a mixed 51.8%.
Some guests faced issues like denied service due to early closing time or long wait times. There were also concerns about inconsistent customer service' and a lack of flexibility when issues arose, suggesting some areas need attention.
Service
56
Reviews
51%
Satisfaction
21
negative
6
neutral
29
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly staff
- Quick service
- Warm welcome
What people don't like
- Denied service
- Long wait times
- Poor resolution
Often praised
- servicebest service as well the ladys there always serve you with a big smile
- ServiceService:5
- staffI arrived at 9: 55 PM, just before closing at 10 PM, but the staff were incredibly warm and welcoming, even after a long shift. They insisted I order, so I got a California roll and an horchata.
- customer serviceThe customer service always five star
- drive thruvisited the drive thru at least a half-dozen times
- AdrianaI can’t say enough positive things about this place. And Adriana is a fantastic human!
- drive-thruDrive-thru.
- employeeLa empleada fue amable
- friendly staffI enjoyed delicious tacos at a fair price. The adorable location and friendly staff made for a wonderful dining experience, not just a drive-thru. They offer small indoor and patio dining options.
- girl who attended methe girl who attended me was very kind
Frequently criticized
- serviceI rated this a 2 out of 5, and I was drunk, so I would have eaten anything. The cashier lady seemed over her job, and the service was mediocre. The bbl was nice, though.
- ServiceService needs to be better
- cashier ladyCashier lady is over her job
- closing timeThey say they close at ten but thats just the drive in.
- customer servicePoor customer service
- denied servicei was denied service at 10:30 pm
- false advertisingFalse advertising!!!!!
- inside closingInside closes who knows when but 930 is too late.
- ladythe lady taking my order was clearly upset
- night employeesThe night employees keep closing earlier than they should
If youre looking for quick and friendly interactions, youll likely find them here, especially during regular hours. However, be mindful of potential inconsistencies, particularly around closing time or if you anticipate needing special assistance, as service can be a bit of a mixed bag.
Ambience (5.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 26% of the guests
When it comes to the vibe, many customers really appreciate the effort! With 13 positive remarks out of 24 total, folks often highlight the refreshed atmosphere, the clean environment, and the adorable location, especially loving the new mural inside. While the overall score sits at an average 5.8, theres definitely a lot to like about the places look and feel.
However, the customer satisfaction rating is a bit of a mixed 54.2%, and some common concerns pop up. A significant dealbreaker for several guests (8 negative opinions) is the lack of public restrooms. Parking can also be a challenge, and a few folks mentioned issues like dirty tables, which can definitely put a damper on the experience.
Ambience
24
Reviews
54%
Satisfaction
8
negative
3
neutral
13
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Clean environment
- Adorable location
- Nice mural
What people don't like
- No public restrooms
- Parking difficult
- Dirty tables
Often praised
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- atmosphereAtmosphere:5
- adorable locationI enjoyed delicious tacos at a fair price. The adorable location and friendly staff made for a wonderful dining experience, not just a drive-thru. They offer small indoor and patio dining options.
- always cleanthe place is always clean
- bblNice bbl though
- environmentClean environment
- indoor diningsmall indoor dining
- kitchen cleanlinessThey had, in my opinion, the best carne asada chips in San Diego. That being said, this place isn't a bad replacement; it certainly looks cleaner in the kitchen. The carne asada chips are better than average, but aren't amazing like the old ones.
- muraladded a nice mural inside
- old buildingrefreshed the old building and gave it a face lift and added a nice mural inside
Frequently criticized
- restroomsNo restrooms
- ParkingParking is impossible with my van
- atmosphereAtmosphere:2
- dirty tableslas mesas sucias
- public restroomnot seeing a public restroom anywhere though
- public restroomsNo public restrooms though.
- restroom for customersno restroom for customers
If youre looking for a spot with a cute, clean atmosphere and dont mind potentially hunting for parking or a public restroom, this place could be a pleasant surprise. However, if those practicalities are deal-breakers for you, you might want to consider other options.
Value (3.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 29% of the guests
Based on 25 opinions, a few diners did find some positive aspects regarding value. Some mentioned a fair price and felt their experience was worth it, highlighting a solid price point for their meals. These positive comments suggest that for some, the cost aligned with their expectations.
However, the overwhelming majority of 20 negative opinions point to significant concerns. Many found the prices too high, frequently calling the food expensive. Issues like upcharge for items like extra hot sauce and extra salsa were common dealbreakers, leading to a poor score of 3.3 and very low customer satisfaction at just 16%.
Value
25
Reviews
16%
Satisfaction
20
negative
1
neutral
4
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Fair price point
What people don't like
- Prices too high
- Upcharges for extras
- Outdated online menu
Often praised
- Price per personPrice per person:$10–20
- fair priceMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! I enjoyed delicious tacos at a fair price. The adorable location and friendly staff made for a wonderful dining experience, not just a drive-thru.
- price pointat solid price point
- worth itbut it’s worth it
Frequently criticized
- priceNot cheap (one burrito, one small ceviche, one drink -- x2 said orders, + basic 20% tip = $52)
- pricestheir prices reflect the rent they now have to pay
- hot sauceI specifically requested a surf and turf, but I received the wrong order. To make matters worse, they attempted to charge me extra for hot sauce. The food and atmosphere received a rating of 2 out of 5, while the service also received a 1 out of 5.
- $12waste the ridiculous $12 we spent
- $13$13 for their "signature" agave burrito
- 10 dollarsLOL 10 dollars for 5 rolled tacos
- expensiveKind of expensive
- extra hot saucepay for extra hot sauce
- extra salsayou will be charged for extra salsa
- food pricecreo que es cara la comida
If youre considering this spot, be prepared for potentially higher costs, especially for extras like hot sauce or salsa. While a few found the price fair, the majority felt it was quite expensive. It might disappoint if youre looking for budget-friendly options.
How are the prices at Agave?
You’re looking at roughly 16 per person – reported by 48 diners. That puts it in the $11–$20 category. For a Mexican Restaurant, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Most diners spend in this $11–$20 range, though you’ll find a few cheaper bites and some slightly pricier options too.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 48 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value stacks up against similar spots in San Diego.
Overall, we think the pricing feels pretty fair for a Mexican spot in San Diego. It hits that sweet spot for a good meal without breaking the bank.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Agave
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
7
Great Tacos, Bad Plate Choice
My experience at this restaurant was a mixed bag. The tacos were great, but the restaurant's choice to serve them on styrofoam plastic plates with scolding hot tortillas and meat was a significant issue. This has happened multiple times, resulting in tacos burning into the plates.
I tried to explain this to the staff, but they didn't seem to understand. Despite this recurring problem, the food itself is great, which makes the situation a shame.
- tacos9
- food8
- staff5
- styrofoam plastic plates2
- scolding hot tortillas and meat3
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Group Type
- Solo Dinner
Group Size
- Solo
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
2
Disappointing Chicken Bowl Experience
My experience at the restaurant was largely negative due to the food quality. I ordered the chicken bowl, and unfortunately, both the rice and chicken contained hard chunks, which significantly detracted from my meal. Additionally, the overall taste of the food was off-putting.
While the service and atmosphere received good ratings (4/5), the food quality (2/5) was a major letdown.
- service8
- atmosphere8
- chicken bowl2
- rice2
- chicken2
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Short (6–15 min.)
9
Delicious Tacos, Great Atmosphere!
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic! I enjoyed delicious tacos at a fair price. The adorable location and friendly staff made for a wonderful dining experience, not just a drive-thru.
They offer small indoor and patio dining options. I'm glad Google recommended this place.
- delicious tacos10
- fair price8
- adorable location9
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Tourist Experience
Service Type
- Dine-in
Noise Level
- Quiet
2
Ridiculous Salsa Policy
As a long-time resident of San Diego with extensive experience dining at numerous taco shops, I've never encountered a policy as astonishingly ridiculous as this one. The restaurant limits the amount of salsa you receive based on your order item, and even then, they charge for extra salsa. It's baffling.
The previous establishment, Taco Fiesta, had to close due to rising rent, and unfortunately, Agave Taco Shop has taken its place with prices that reflect the increased costs. If you're visiting from out of town, I honestly recommend going to any other taco shop. No one else charges extra for hot sauce, which is quite a surprise.
- salsa1
- extra salsa1
- prices2
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Service Type
- Takeout
Meal Type
- Lunch
2
Outdated Menu and Overpriced Burrito
My experience at this restaurant was disappointing due to an outdated online menu. I paid $15. 00 for a burrito, but the online menu stated it was only $10.
00. The burrito itself was just okay, and definitely not as good as what Alberto's offers. Because of the price discrepancy and the average food quality, I won't be going back.
- burrito5
- online menu2
- price3
What Agave offers
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Breakfast
- Solo dining
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Small plates
- Cocktails
- Quick bite
Dining options
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
- Breakfast
Service Options
- Drive-through
- No-contact delivery
- Takeout
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Parking
- Free street parking
- Free parking lot
- Usually plenty of parking
Atmosphere
- Casual
FAQs
What convenient service options does Agave Taco Shop offer?
Agave in Point Loma provides you with a variety of convenient service options. You can easily grab your meal via their drive-through, or opt for no-contact delivery and takeout. Both outdoor seating and traditional dine-in options are available for you to enjoy your Mexican meal.
Is Agave Taco Shop suitable for families and pet owners?
Yes, Agave is a great spot for you and your family. It’s good for kids, offering high chairs for the little ones. If you’re bringing your furry friend, dogs are allowed in the outdoor seating area, making it a welcoming choice for pet owners in San Diego.
What is the overall rating for Agave and what are its key strengths and weaknesses?
Agave has an overall Restaurant Score of 6.1, indicating an average experience. Its Food (6.6) is a highlight, while Service (5.9) and Ambience (5.8) are average. However, Value (3.3) is a notable area for improvement.
Are the prices at Agave considered reasonable by customers?
Many customers express concerns about the pricing at Agave, noting that some items are expensive and there can be extra charges for things like hot sauce, impacting the overall perception of value.
What do customers say about the service and atmosphere at Agave?
The staff at Agave are often described as friendly and welcoming. The atmosphere is generally seen as clean and pleasant, though some guests have noted issues with inconsistent service hours and the lack of public restrooms.