El Fandango, located in the Old Town State Historic Park, is a historically interpretive restaurant, reflecting the changing pattern of food preparation in California between 1846 and 1856, a decade of great change in the state.

First, game and seafood was the staple of local Indians; then the Spanish period Californios developed cattle herds. At this time the tradition of “Fandangos” was instituted during which special parties would take place that sometimes lasted days.

The menu of El Fandango reflects the collection of cuisine that took root during this period and includes Tacos de Carne Asada, Buritto de Carnitas, Chicken Mole Enchiladas, Hauchinango a la Veracruz (red snapper) and Fajita Quesadilla. El Fandango also serves exquisite salads and soups and refreshing drinks, such as its margaritas and mojitos.

The structure and decoration of El Fandango also reflects the building style of the Mexican period: a patio with armadas for shade with an adobe plastered style of construction.

Don’t miss out on El Fandango’s Friday and Saturday special: $25 for three Mexican tequilas and appetizers: Reposada Tequilas “Patron,” Don Julio Tequila and Tres Generaciones Tequila. Appetizers include Calamari, Rolled Tacos (mini), Fandango Quesadillas and Guacamole Dip with Chips.

El Fandango also has a happy hour on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 5-7 p.m. On Monday, El Fandango offers its Cheese Enchilada and House Margarita. On Tuesday, enjoy a beef or chicken taco and a Mexican beer. On Wednesday, the restaurant offers its Fandango Quesadilla and a mojito.

Through its traditional Mexican cuisine and drinks and Mexican style atmosphere, El Fandango guests enjoy a journey back in time when the old San Diego and the embryo of a new San Diego co-existed.