Karina’s Mexican Seafood

Chips tasted burnt, salsa was weird and way too spicy for kids. My husband ordered Clam chowder which tasted more like plain chowder… not good. I had bacon wrapped shrimp it was ok. They put Clam sauce on it which was tasteless. Wouldn’t order that again. The fried calamari was ok, it needed seasoning for sure but ok. Wouldn’t recommend this place.
The environment was weird. The place was decorated horribly. Our waitress had no personality at all. The whole time I wished we went to get fast food.
Not good «mexican» food.

Ordered a large shrimp cocktail girl brought me a small. And it tastes like shit! Not worth $ 14.

Hooked up with the work buddies for some drinks and grub and this place was Hoppin! They had the soccer games on and every table was taken!
Great place to go with friends and family, lots of kids so it’s kid friendly but it was loud on this evening. We each had a few drinks and shared the Bacon wrapped scallops, the shrimp tacos and the ceviche. The food wasn’t the best but it was good, the tacos by far were the best thing we got.

Worst service ever. As soon as we walked in the hostess did not even acknowledge us, we had to be asked to seated. The place was half empty and customers were leaving and the hostess said she was not allowed to sit any one. Then we ordered our food to go and asked if a table opens up if we could be seated and once again she said that wouldn’t be possible. P. S I counted 8 tables leave while waiting for our food.

The location is conveniently right out of the I805, lots of parking space around. Restaurand is large, Mariachi band today and attractive design inside and out.
We sat outside even though was a little chilly but we enjoyed the time and food there. They have an extensive alcoholic drinks menu, delicious menu and desserts.

Omg went again because mom wanted to go!!! Worst decision ever! Hostess was laughing at us! Very rude!!! Didn’t say about having a different menu for Mother’s Day even though Mother’s Day was on Sunday! Said the kitchen couldn’t handle so many tickets and that was the reason why they had a different menu!!!
Got seated took the server 10 mins to arrive bad attitude got our drinks!!! Came back asking if we were ready to order I said not yet! She gave me a dirty look!!! She didn’t have any manners!!! Her name is NANCY!!! Or at least that’s what she said!!! I’m a server and I just can’t understand why she got hired!!! Bad bad bad server!!! He started arguing with my mom! Wow!!! I just can’t believe it! Arnulfo what’s going on with your staff!!! Bad bad bad

Ok, so where do I begin? The service was below standard. We had to ask for the waitress. Once we were done eating the waitress finally showed up and asked if I needed another drink. I ordered the deviled seafood combo and it was way too seasoned. Our other order was the fish tacos which were good. The only reason I gave them 3 stars was because of the voluptuous waitresses. Also their prices are kind of steep.

Stopped by yesterday, got a table for three. Once sat down requested to order happy hour menu, then was informed by waitress that because we sat down on the «dining side of restaurant» it was not available to US, and that we should have been informed. I explained we were not informed by the host, and since we had already sat down and started getting settled we didn’t want to move; so i requested the manager.
Some older hispanic lady (manager on duty) dressed in all black (didn’t get name) starts speaking spanish asking us that why we requested her, when she could have been more professional and curious. I explained to her the situation and if she could offer the happy hour considering we were not told, she said «I’m sorry» in english and gave us the look like oh well.
I told her well your staff should inform, you as a manager should fix that.
Ordered the fajitas and they were so salty, too much seasoning. I absolutely will not return to this location, food and service sucks. Not to mention our waitress was gorgeous (green eyes) but she wasn’t attentive.

First time I actually have eaten at any of Karina’s Restaurant’s. I’m aware they have many of them and in different locations in San Diego! My friend brought me here since I was craving marisco’s since it was such a hot day today and what’s better then ceviche and michelada’s right? All the food was so fresh with a lot of flavor, and the waitress was nice and attentive but I just felt like our food took forever lol overall I had a great time and I will be back!!!

We went to Karina“s for lunch today as a family of 4. We arrived at 1300, and were seated outside. The service was horrible. Two parties whom were seated after us were already served water, chips, and drinks by 1315. We were brought chips by young gentleman (very polite) but he wasn’t the waiter. When I asked one of the waitresses on the patio if we were going to be served she stated she needed to find someone. We left at 1332 without any assistance.
I’ve been here before but for happy hour– not such a horrible experience. But today was ridiculous, the place wasn’t crowded, it just seemed we were completely forgotten about.

Good atmosphere and décor. Like the tea light candles in the bar area. Good smiling customer service. The food is real good as well. Especially the Lobster \ Crab Enchiladas. Good location off the freeway.

This place has horrible service!!! The waitress took forever to take orders and didn’t check back on us. We asked for the bill and so far it’s been 20 min and we are still waiting to pay!

Love their happy hour 4 to 7. Good food too. Staff is very friendly and always had a good service.

We always love Karina’s seafood restaurant. Love the Mexican foodies and drinks! Super Rico!!! This location has the relaxing atmosphere not too loud. Great design. Service was on point. Absolutely love the camarones enchilado perfectly spicy and yummy. Definitely a chill place good vibes and we’re coming back soon! They have happy hour everyday. I love that black horsey purse holder next to our table. But one thing was too much was my «micheluca «drink it was $ 6.95 plus the separate beer price for $ 3.00 wtf? =$ 9.95 really? Plus there were lots of ice. Wow pricey huh! Overall we liked this location right off 805S. Very convenient easy access good parking too. Would recommend to Unilocalers ;)

I’ve been a guest of all locations and always have a great experience. Last night I was at the bar and had a few drinks and didn’t like one of the drinks after one sip. Later I was wondering why I still was charged $ 10.80 for a drink that I hated and didn’t drink, I was practically yelled at by the bartender who was a complete — — - I have never been treated so rudely by a SERVICE employee in my life.
Thanks for making it easy for me to never give your company another $ Italia
You are rude an unprofessional

First time here. Friend took me here on the way to airport. I appreciated the contemporary Mexican décor. The service was quick and friendly. Lunch was not very busy. Extensive menu. My friend had lobster burrito and I hate breaded shrimp tacos. Everything was tasty and well presented. Their salsa was fresh tasting and their chips solid and strong not whimpy chips. Daniela our main server said she’s been with Karinas for 8 years. The food tasted fresh and had authentic flavors and style. Loved the décor.

My experience was really really good, excellent service, delicious food, great place to take a good dinner! I suggest the tacos governor, shrimp and crab enchiladas and aguachiles! Awesome food!

We stopped in yesterday for a michelada and some apps. We sat at the bar and ordered shrimp tacos, oysters, and these crunchy deep fried shrimp that were really good. Bartender and Server Gladys took great care of us. Good crowd and ambiance.

All show No go!!!
Nice scenery but service is slow.
(scenery: Beautiful Girls and Boobs)
Food its Okay not the best !

Great happy hour Good food and prices…, Great atmosphere and the waitresses are very sexy

I don’t understand how this place has 2 ½ stars. To start off the location it’s pretty convenient right off the 805. They have plenty of parking space. The interior design of the restaurant it’s clean and artistic. Pretty modern Mexican interior design. As soon as you walk in you are greeted by the hostess who directs you to your table. Once seated you are asked immediately if you are ready for a drink or any appetizer. The menu is significant big and colorful with pictures. This makes it easy to see what you will get. Their drink menu was big with plenty of options to choose from. Our table ordered «Green agua Chile» as appetizer. This was a great decision to enjoy with the group. It was shrimp cooked with lime juice, red onion and a spicy green salsa. For my main dish I ordered a «campechana» which was a cocktail with shrimp, octopus, scallops, and smoke tuna. All with clam, lime and a tomatoe juice. This cocktail had also avocado, tomatoes and cilantro. It was a pretty delicious meal. My friend ordered a «Mar y tierra» which is a steak fillet, chicken breast, and shrimps all grilled. This comes with a huge portion of gucamole, refried pinto beans and a small side of salad. Prices are not that cheap but the presentation, service and taste of the food is worth it. Basically you get what you pay for.

I ordered Dave’s Favorite and 1 dozen oysters. Both were $ 19 each bringing the total tab to be $ 42 with tax. Plan to put down more $ for a tip. The ceviche was very sour with sour salsa on the side for more sourness. I really loved it and I lost count of how many shrimps were in the dish. There was more than enough. It also had octopus, scallops and chopped fish with garnishes.
No lack of parking. Waitresses were dressed provocatively and the food was great. I’m unsure where the oysters came from, but it tastes like it was fished out of the San Diego bay or something. I’ve had better. Service was okay. The live mariachi band was fantastic and loud. I think the waitress was deaf because she got my order to include avocados and my friend’s beverage incorrect but didn’t hesitate to correct it when I told her about it. The football game on the giant screen makes the place look kind of cheesy and definitely takes away from the themed décor. Not a 5 star place, but not a 3 star either. This place is legit with 4 stars!

Ok, I know its a chain restaurant, but… The staff here went out of their way to accommodate us. It feels more like a small business owned location. We went for a walk with our puppy and everyone was hungry. The patio was closed, they opened it for us, found us a server that could take care of us and delivered. They even turned on the heaters, and TV’s for the kids. The food was really great and our puppy got to eat too.
The portions are more than you can (or should) eat. The presentation is nice, and the dessert was gone almost as soon as she set it on the table. I’ve been to this location twice now, and both times was, a great experience. Oh, and I’d like to buy my girlfriend one of the waitress outfits…

Wow! I was completely shocked about how poor the reviews are on this place… until I read them. And honestly, I get what people are saying about the staff. They could definitely improve in that arena; I’ll agree to that.
But my review and the 5 stars that go with it are solely based on food because SERIOUSLY YOU GUYS! My husband and I left making the comment that we have not had a meal THAT delicious all around in so long we can’t even remember! We eat out at restaurants A LOT, in many different cities, and all different types of cuisine, and this place far exceeded any expectation we had for lunch.
I was skeptical about this place becoming a Karina’s because I had a deep love for Los Arcos that was there before it had to close «due to uncontrollable circumstances» as the sign on the door said… :-(And while I also like Karina’s, and have been to every other location in San Diego, it just wasn’t THE BEST or something I’d go out of my way for. But fortunately for us, hubs and I were driving back to east county from visiting family in Chula and stopped here on our way home for some lunch.
EVERYTHING we ordered was delicious.
The ceviche was SO fresh. I haven’t had seafood that fresh anywhere in San Diego. And I mean nowhere.
My husband loved the Marlin tacos, I loved the lobster tacos (HUGE chunks of fresh lobster meat), and we shared the shrimp tacos on the app menu (with the ranchera sauce) and they were all so good that my mouth is watering as I type about them. The tacos were also not normal tacos you’d think of (with lettuce, cheese, whatever…). They’re grilled with just the meat and the cheese; almost like mini quesadillas. They’re heaven.
The guacamole, salsa, rice and beans were also really good. I know those are things that many can think «yeah, so what» but just wait until you have any one of those done wrong and you’ll appreciate when they’re done right.
It dawned on me that this location may be a sort of spin off of the traditional Karina’s restaurants. I thought I had picked up on it being called «Tequila by Karinas.» Whatever it is that they’re doing differently at this one, KEEP IT UP!
My husband and I were also talking about the fact that had I not been pregnant, we’d be drinking on the patio all day with their yummy looking drinks they were serving up. It was beautiful weather, the dining room patio seating was inviting, the bar patio seating was also inviting, and it was just the kind of place that you could totally relax and have a few on a Sunday afternoon.
We’ll be back!

Nice décor! I like! Beer glasses need to be ice cold in order for it to taste delicious!

This is one of those cases that I’m not sure why the restaurant has such low reviews. The two times that I’ve been to this particular location, the staff has been nothing but nice and attentive. I usually go during lunch hours because it’s a lot calmer, and I love the lunch specials.
The food itself is always great! The portions are really generous and it always consistent, which are two things that I really appreciate. I always get the shrimp burrito with salsa Karina and it’s so good! I’ll eat the whole thing and the beans and I’ll be good for the rest of the day. I also love their chips and salsa!
As for the service, as I previously mentioned I’ve never had a problem with it. Whenever I order iced tea I tend to drink about 4 sometimes 5 glasses, and the waitresses never make me wait for my next glass. They’re always on top of things and like I said very attentive towards our needs. Even after my party has paid, we’ll stay on our table chatting away and the waitress will come and refill our drinks. It’s great knowing that we have a place where we can go eat and chat without feeling rushed.

Hace una semana estuve visitando Karina nuevo restaurante está en E. en Chula Vista…
No tengo quejas con relación a la comida…
Pero es extremadamente abusivo en la cuenta…
Cualquier orden de comida que pidas 4 dólares por la mitad de un aguacate en dos órdenes pague 8 dólares… por dos Mitades de aguacate…
Y eso es extremadamente Abusiva

Extremely disappointed in the inattentive staff. I’m aware that it may be busy for a Friday evening, but at least to have been acknowledged would’ve been nice. We checked our watch and it took over 10 minutes and a couple of glances at the hostesses & servers until we decided to walk out (we’re a pretty patient group of people, but isn’t there at least a time frame to check in with your guests?) Nowhere between that time did anyone stop to at least tell us they’d be with us in a minute, take a drink order, or drop off some chips.
I’m usually a fan of the food at any Karina’s, but this one in particular left a bad taste in my mouth.

This Karina’s is by far my favorite Karina’s. We went here on a Sunday and enjoyed some nice live music. The décor and service was great also. The micheladas were made to perfection and the food was a 5 out of 5 for myself and my family.

I saw people complain about the pricing in their reviews. Well, seafood isn’t «burgers and fries». The princess on average were about 2 – 3 $ more than TJ Oyster Bar. And TJ Oyster Bar is a hole in the wall place. I personally don’t mi d paying the extra money to eat a beautiful location, with beautiful girls serving you and live music. Totally worth it.

We went for an early dinner. We’ve been to most of the other locations and wanted to check this one out. We had been to the restaurant location before when it was the previous owner.
The food was good (we love Karina’s food) however, the prices were high and the service was mediocre at best. There seemed to be a ton of staff but we had to wait and ask for a drink refill… and wait again and ask for the bill.

Aye Karina’s, I like your seafood and the beautiful people who work there!
I stopped in for dinner on a early Friday evening, and I was beat, so the first thing I ordered with a piping hot cup of coffee for quick me up. After browsing the menu a bit, a go over it with Mayelin, my server, I ordered the Sea Bass Ceviche Tostado with sliced avocado and stuffed shrimp with smoked marlin and wrapped in bacon with a side of rice and salad.
The sea bass ceviche tostado was very good. The sea bass was nicely cured in the acidity of the citrus, but not so much the the fish lost it natural flavor. The fish had a tender and succulent texture and they not only did not skimp on the amount of fish, but the pieces were generous in size as well. The fish was also well seasoned, adding the avocado is the sure way to go with this dish. However, I felt only three slices were not sufficient. At least four would of ensured some avocado in each bite.
The stuffed shrimp were good, but a little salty from the double whammy vie the bacon, then the smoked marlin inside. The shrimp were of good size, of the medium variety, and when I go through the bacon and marlin, they were well prepared, clean, and tasted quite good. They did not hold back on the bacon, to ensure a good wrap, but even thought I love bacon, I have to admit, that the bacon flavor for each stuffed shrimp was quite dominate, so keep that in mind if you order these. The marlin inside the shrimp was abundant with a mild smokiness and aggressively seasoned.
The side was okay. It was well cooked, but it could of been better seasoned. The side salad was fresh and light, and it helped break down the saltiness of the shrimp. I liked that the plated a lot of it.
Service provided by Mayelin and a few of the other girls was attentive and quite friendly. Mayelin, my main server, was terrific. She new the menu very well and was able to answer my questions cordially and kept checking on me to make sure I was okay.

(2.5 quisiera darles) Decidi ir a comer a este karinas por lo cerca que estába y yo tenia ganas de ver como le habían cambiado la decoración, ya que mi ultima visita había sido cuando era los arcos, desde que entre las chicas fueron muy amables como regularmente lo son en todos los karinas :) me dieron la opción de sentarme en el lado de la barra por la hora feliz pero escogi el comedor, los menús son wowww grandisimos y no me refiero a lo extenso del menú si no al tamaño (o sera que yo estoy muy chaparrita jajaja) lo abría y me quedaba totalmente escondida tras el :), bueno cambiando el tema vamos a lo más importante «la comida» me toco probar dos cosas enchiladas de camarón y cangrejo, camarones karinas los dos platos puedo decir que estaban comibles. :$ la salsita de mesa estaba súper salada (para mi gusto).Tal vez después decida ir a probar otros platillos y se me hagan mas sabrosos pero hoy no me convencieron :$

I’ve been to a lot of restaurants, I can tell you with out a doubt this is the best home cooking of traditional Mexican food I have ever eaten. If you think for a minute that you need to travel south to experience a taste of Mexico. Then you don’t know what your missing out on. The service, food and environment feels like I am at home.
You can’t go wrong with food that reaches the soul.
Stop by and taste for yourself and I bet you will write the same as me.
Great place!