Miguel's Cocina   

Miguel's is a Point Loma institution, a favorite destination for those who love their SoCal-style Mexican cuisine. The food may not be the most authentic, but it's so, so tasty. Items such as the carnitas and enchiladas have pride of place on the menu right along with an extensive offering of margaritas, including specialties like the Midori margarita. Diners looking to expand their horizons try the calamari relleno or calamari torta -- these brave excursions into the culinary adventure called squid are refreshing changes from the norm. The lowly frijoles refrito (refried beans) are a reliable indicator of the kitchen's skill. At Miguel's the beans are creamy with a hint of the smokiness brought out by true re-frying -- sublime comfort food that bodes well for the rest of the menu. For veggie-folks, there is a veggie-cheese enchilada plate to keep you munching along happily with the rest of the crowd. Part of the fun at Miguel's is the ramshackle beach-house appeal of the restaurant. The premises are decorated with Baja-influenced abandon. Stop by the heated dining deck or upstairs bar for happy hour and down some margarita pitchers with the delicious chips and white salsa.