Customers praised the flavors and presentation of the food, with many highlighting specific dishes like the carnitas and enchiladas as exceptional. However, there were also complaints about inconsistent quality and some dishes being poorly executed.
Service Experience
The service received mixed reviews; while many customers appreciated the friendly and attentive staff, others reported issues with inattentiveness and poor communication.
Atmosphere
The restaurant's ambiance was frequently described as pleasant and inviting, with a nice outdoor space, making it a popular choice for gatherings.
Pricing Concerns
Several reviews mentioned that the prices were on the higher side, with some customers feeling that the value did not match the quality of the food.
Happy Hour
The happy hour specials were well-received, with many customers enjoying the deals on food and drinks.
HB
Hector Bernal
4 days ago
2.0
I’ve seen this place for a while and finally had an opportunity to dine at Casa Grabriela. I will start out with strong positives: service was good and waiters were very attentive. The atmosphere was good but you can still see remnants of the previous restaurant (Bo-Beau) which isn’t bad.
We started out with the Queso Fundido as an appetizer, it was essentially bean and cheese on a skillet with chorizo. Although it was not very traditional it was tasty. Our main dishes were a different story. The molcajete dish was charred meats and vegetables and did not seem well seasoned. Not sure why Mexican restaurants struggle with basic dishes such as fish tacos and burritos but the chef must of thought this also needed to be complicated only to be underwhelming in its delivery. Too much cabbage, too much sauce. The mar y Tierra burrito was unlike anything I’ve ever seen. It seemed to be made of finely diced slow cooked meat, drenched in cooking oil with unseasoned plain shrimp. For a nicer Mexican restaurant they really missed the mark on those two dishes that a food truck and any place that ends in “bertos” can do better - again, how does a Mexican chef manage to miss this?
The carne asada plate appeared promising with its presentation only to deliver lackluster results. Flank steak drenched in a concoction of oily seasoning. Past the chips and salsa (which were actually good) their green salsa was just toned down and exhibited a weird sweetness… (Rachael Ray, is that you?)
I am all for seeing a spin or two on Mexican dishes but I should have known the minute I ate the rice. All the dishes were an over engineered reinvention of something that really needs to be kept simple. I will end with a positive - the music selection was actually good and made me feel like I was home.
TT
teadrinker
Nov 16, 2025
5.0
Ambience: The restaurant is beautifully decorated and very inviting.
Service: attentive and excellent. Our waitress was knowledgeable about the menu and made sure to point out the spice levels of different dishes.
Food: Portions are generous. The La Jefa Asado has a nice kick—the spice lingers in a good way—and pairs perfectly with the rice, beans, and tortillas. The serving size is ideal for 2–3 people. Food is a bit too salty to our taste though.
We had an enjoyable meal and look forward to returning to try the weekend brunch.
EE
Evelyn
Nov 9, 2025
2.0
Casa Gabriela offers an exceptional atmosphere, but unfortunately, the kitchen did not deliver on flavor or value. My two-star rating is a direct reflection of the inconsistent food quality, which was barely salvaged by the excellent ambience.
The reason this review isn't lower is solely due to the setting. The ambiance was inviting, and the taste in music was truly amazing, creating a wonderful backdrop for the meal. The atmosphere alone is worth a star. I ordered the Sopes Benedictos, which were unfortunately the biggest letdown. The birria was tasteless and severely lacked flavor, relying instead on an excessive amount of fat. The accompanying side was also inaccurately described. While the menu promised papas con rajas, the dish served was simply a standard portion of country potatoes. Furthermore, the guacamole desperately needed seasoning, specifically lime and salt, to bring out its freshness.My beverage, the michelada, was merely okay nothing special or memorable. When I asked for hot sauce, I was brought what appeared to be tomato sauce, adding a point of confusion to the meal. Diners should be prepared for an unexpected charge: a 5% surcharge is added to the bill to cover "cost of food." Given the quality of the dishes, this feels particularly unjustified. While the musical choices and atmosphere are top-notch, the essential elements of food quality, flavor, and accurate menu descriptions must be addressed before I can recommend dining here.
EF
Erin F
Nov 5, 2025
4.0
As someone with celiac disease I must eat gluten free. I was disappointed as they couldn’t say for certain if the chips were GF. They are not friend on site (the on site fryer is shared) and couldn’t verify with the business the source them from. The guac was delish but I had to eat it off a fork. I’d planned to get carnitas but found out they contain dairy (WHY???) and I’m dairy free, super bummed. I ended up with the Panela salad hold the panela and add grilled chicken. I was bummed to get yet another salad but it was really really good! I’ll come back and either call the chip company or bring my own chips next time.
JB
jennifer brimhall
Nov 2, 2025
5.0
We had our first experience at Casa Gabriella today! Sweet ambiance, location easy and the food was great. I had the carnitas and hubby had the chilaquiles. Perfect amount of food for both. Flavorful and just right! Staff was courteous and relaxed. Outdoor space was extremely pleasant. We will be back! Jenny and Tom
Yes, Casa Gabriela accepts reservations which can be made online via their OpenTable page.
What are the opening hours of Casa Gabriela?
Casa Gabriela is open Tuesday to Friday from 3:30 PM to 9:00 PM, and on Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 AM to 2:00 PM and 3:30 PM to 9:00 PM. They are closed on Mondays.
Does Casa Gabriela offer brunch?
Yes, brunch is served at Casa Gabriela on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM.
What types of meals are served at Casa Gabriela?
Casa Gabriela serves lunch, brunch, dinner, and happy hour menus.
What types of payment methods does Casa Gabriela accept?
Casa Gabriela accepts American Express, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa credit cards.
Does Casa Gabriela provide pickup or delivery services?
Casa Gabriela offers in-store pickup but does not provide delivery services.
Is Casa Gabriela wheelchair accessible?
Yes, Casa Gabriela has a wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, parking, and restrooms.
What nearby places can I visit before or after dining at Casa Gabriela?
You can visit BO-beau kitchen + garden, a French restaurant; La Mesa Farmers Market for fresh local produce; or Coin Haus, an arcade and American restaurant, all situated near Casa Gabriela.
Are there any nearby wine bars near Casa Gabriela for after-dinner drinks?
Yes, Gio Bistro and Wine Bar and San Pasqual Winery Tasting Room and Gallery are nearby locations where you can enjoy wine after dining.
Can I explore other dining options near Casa Gabriela?
Nearby dining options include Gingham for American cuisine, Surf Rider Pizza for Italian, Centifonti’s Bar & Restaurant for Italian food and drinks, and Johnny B’s Burgers Brew and Spirits for burgers and brews.