Pricing:
$9-16 per entree. So, slightly more expensive than your hole-in-the-wall taco shop and slightly less expensive than Casa de Bandini.
Distance:
Right by the El Camino Real/Encinitas Blvd. intersection. So very close to most Encinitas residents. About a 5-10 minute drive.
Thoughts:
Garcia's is your standard commercial Mexican served on Fiestaware-looking plates. Meaning that it's tasty but not exactly distinctive. If you tried it side-by-side with the food from Casa de Bandini, it'd be difficult to tell them apart.But I like this place. Again, the food is tasty. You're not going to have mariachi bands serenading you and the atmosphere is slightly more subdued, but at least you don't have to wait 20 minutes for a table every time you go. I also appreciate the fact that they actually put alcohol in their margaritas. If I'm paying $9 for an alcoholic drink, I don't want a slurpee.
The location (right next to the Ford Dealer) is unfortunate and the only reason why I think this place is not more crowded. If you are a native and just want some dinner, it's a great option. If you have out of town guests or an event, Las Olas with it's spectacular ocean view or Casa de Bandini with said mariachi bands would probably be more fun options.
