Recent social media posts
06/26/2026
Have you made it in for brunch yet?
If not, this is your sign. Weekend Brunch at Ortega's Hillcrest is now serving every Friday, Saturday and Sunday and it is everything you want your weekend morning to look like. Authentic Mexican flavors, handcrafted margarita flights, mimosa flights, and drinks that make 8AM feel like the best decision you made all week.
This is not your average brunch spot. Every dish is rooted in the flavors of Mexico, made with the same care and authenticity that Ortega's has always brought to the table. Whether you are kicking off your Friday or wrapping up your Sunday, we have your weekend covered.
Bring your crew, grab a flight, and come see what Hillcrest has been talking about.
Fri, Sat and Sun 8AM to 2PM Ortega's Hillcrest
Reserve your table at ortegas.com
06/23/2026
Taco + Tequila Tuesday at Ortega's Hillcrest is here every single week and we are bringing the fiesta straight to your Tuesday night. Handcrafted tacos starting at $4, tequila shots and margaritas starting at $7, and all the authentic Mexican flavors you need to make it through the week in style.
Roasted chicken, adobo carnitas, chorizo and potato, shrimp, steak, mahi mahi and more. Pair it all with a Cabrillo Margarita, a Presidio Margarita, or keep it classic with a tequila shot and let the night take care of itself.
Oh, and every order comes with a complimentary first round of freshly made chips and salsa. Because that is just how we do it at Ortega's.
Tacos. Tequila. Tuesday. See you there.
Every Tuesday at Ortega's Hillcrest. Dine in only.
06/21/2026
Ortega's is more than just a meal. It is a space built for bold flavors and dishes rooted in the heart of Mexican cuisine. From the moment you walk in, you feel it. The warmth, the energy, the authenticity that makes every visit feel like a real experience worth savoring.
And now, we are bringing that same soul to your weekends.
Weekend Brunch at Ortega's is officially here. Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 8AM to 2PM, come start your morning the right way. Handcrafted margarita flights, mimosa flights, and a brunch menu packed with authentic Mexican flavors made to fuel your weekend from the very first bite.
Reserve your table at ortegas.com
06/17/2026
Ortega's Hillcrest is serving up happy hour six days a week from 3PM to 6PM and we are not holding back. Tequila, handcrafted margaritas, and cold Mexican beers starting at $5. Whether you are looking to unwind after work, catch up with friends, or just need a reason to show up on a Monday, this is your sign.
The best happy hour in Hillcrest is waiting for you. Come pull up a seat at the bar and let us take care of the rest.
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. 3PM to 6PM. Starting at $5.
(Happy hour is not available on Taco and Tequila Tuesdays.)
Ortega's Hillcrest. See you soon.
06/15/2026
Behind every great meal, every handcrafted drink, and every remarkable experience is a team that shows up every single day with passion and purpose.
These are the people that make Ortega's what it is. From the kitchen to the bar to the front of house, every member of our team brings dedication, flavor, and heart to everything they do. They are the reason our community keeps coming back, and we could not be more proud to have them representing the Ortega's family.
To our entire team, thank you. The magic you create every single day does not go unnoticed.
06/14/2026
Thursdays just got a whole lot better, Hillcrest.
Every Thursday at Ortega's we are bringing you one of the best drink deals in San Diego. Come unwind after a long day, grab your crew, and take advantage of our Thirsty Thursday specials all night long.
$5 Tequila Shots $5 Mexican Beers $5 Classic Margaritas
There is no better way to kick off your weekend early than with handcrafted classic margaritas, ice cold Mexican beers, and tequila shots at a price that is hard to beat anywhere in Hillcrest.
06/11/2026
What a game. What a win. And since México came through in a big way, we are sweetening the deal for the next game.
Come through to Ortega's in your México jersey and grab a tequila shot for just $3. No jersey? No problem. $5 Mexican beers, $5 classic margaritas, and $5 tequila shots all game long.
This is how Hillcrest watches fútbol. Cold drinks, authentic Mexican food, and a crowd that is fully locked in every time México takes the field.
We will see you at Ortega's for the next game. Viva México. 🇲🇽
06/10/2026
Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, Ortega's serves brunch inspired by the flavors and traditions of Mexico, paired with handcrafted margarita flights, mimosa flights, and all your brunch favorites.
Whether you're meeting friends, bringing the family together, or turning brunch into an all-day occasion, we've got a seat waiting for you.
Join us for Weekend Brunch at Ortega's.
📍 Hillcrest
🥂 Friday, Saturday & Sunday
🕗 8AM–2PM
06/09/2026
Some of the best nights are the ones you never planned.
That's exactly why we created Thirsty Thursdays.
Every Thursday, we're pouring $5 tequila shots, cerveza mexicana, and classic margaritas all night long. No special occasion required. Just great drinks, familiar faces, and a place to gather in the heart of Hillcrest.
Bring your friends, pull up a seat at the bar, and make Thursday your new favorite night of the week.
We'll take care of the margaritas. 🍹
Address
141 University Avenue, # 4
San Diego, CA
92103
To get to this Mexican restaurant on University Avenue in San Diego, you can take the Green Line trolley and get off at the 54th Street station. From there, walk south on 54th Street for two blocks until you reach University Avenue. Turn right and walk for about a minute and you should see the restaurant on your left.
If you prefer to drive, from Interstate 805, take the University Avenue exit and head east for about two miles. The restaurant will be on your left-hand side just past the intersection with 54th Street. There is a parking lot behind the building accessible from 55th street or free street parking in the surrounding area.
Opening Hours
| Monday |
11:30am - 9pm |
| Tuesday |
11:30am - 9pm |
| Wednesday |
11:30am - 9pm |
| Thursday |
11:30am - 9pm |
| Friday |
11:30am - 9:30pm |
| Saturday |
11:30am - 9:30pm |
| Sunday |
10am - 9pm |
Alerts
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What people say
Mexican restaurants are known for their vibrant flavors, colorful presentations, and warm hospitality. Ortega's, A Mexican Bistro on University Avenue in San Diego embodies all of these qualities and more. With a prime location in Hillcrest, this restaurant is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Mexican cuisine.
One of the standout features of Ortega's is their tableside guacamole, made fresh to order. This attention to detail extends to all of their dishes, from the shrimp enchiladas to the chicken verde enchiladas. Customers rave about the quality of the food and the delicious tortillas that accompany each dish.
But it's not just the food that makes Ortega's special - it's also the atmosphere. The service is top-notch, with friendly staff who go out of their way to make diners feel welcome. And with beautiful presentation and a lovely ambiance, every meal at Ortega's feels like a special occasion.
Whether you're celebrating Cinco de Mayo or just looking for a great meal any day of the week, Ortega's has something for everyone. And with options for delivery or online ordering, it's never been easier to enjoy their incredible menu from the comfort of your own home. Don't miss out on this San Diego gem - make your reservation today!
