Candelas Restaurant, San Diego, California Restaurant Details

Food:

I had such high hopes based on reviews from many sites. Sadly, this was hands-down, no exceptions, absolutely the worst restaurant experience I've ever had. We had requested a 7:30 reservation, but were told the earliest evening available time was 8. The place was nearly empty when we arrived. We sat outside because it was hot and stuffy inside. The Margarita was good enough. The dinner rolls were obviously store-bought, but nicely oven-toasted; the butter was ice cold. The jicama "tacos" were interesting, but needed something more to really make the flavors and textures work together. Things went rapidly downhill from there. The waiter cleared the dishes, then replaced my butter knife with a VERY dirty one. Ew. I ordered the salmon medium rare. It came out nearly raw, and seasoned with something very strong smelling. I suspect now that it was by design to cover the smell of bad fish. I took a bite (tentatively), and spit it right out. Nasty. That spoiled my appetite for the evening. The waiter was kind enough to buy me a margarita, and did not charge us for the bad fish. My husband's fish was overcooked, but edible. Even though they were Outside, I do wish he hadn't pointed out the cockroaches.

Food:

Oh Candelas, everytime I think of you it brings me back -- to prom, to those awkward anniversary dates of high school and the my younger days on the dating scene. A place for elevated mexican food, and a good balance of hey-I-want-to-impress-my-date but still want to know what I'm eating and overally classy ambiance. Sure it might not be in my pocket for everyday dinner time suggestions, but for a romantic night out, this is a good one.

Food:

coming from seattle, we were looking for some so-cal authentic mexican and we found this little gem of a place. excellent service and friendly staff. we loved the ceviche special and the huachinango was out of this world!

when we are back in SD we will come again

Food:

Very good food. Surprisingly great Mexican food. The hostess its very nice. The waitress its very nice too. l will go back again.

Food:

This place has a great atmosphere and the music is great after hours and the drinks are strong, however the food is not 100% to my liking. I would still rate it a 4 stars because it is a cool place that is perfect to take your wife/girfriend on date night, yet I didn't get all the rave about their food. Don't get me wrong, the food was good and I would definately recommend you try this place, yet I just didn't agree with all of the rave reviews everything had said about their food.