La Ceiba

- 799 S 1st St, San Jose, CA 95113

In the culinary heart of California's South Bay, residents are always seeking out establishments that deliver true, uncompromised flavors. For those craving genuine Mexican cuisine, especially the vibrant, zesty dishes hailing from the coast, La Ceiba stands as a highly-rated and beloved fixture in San Jose. Situated on South 1st Street, this restaurant transcends the typical taqueria experience, offering a comprehensive menu that expertly blends land-based Mexican comfort food with a spectacular array of authentic seafood, or Mariscos.

La Ceiba is a true local gem, celebrated for its commitment to both quality and quantity. Guests consistently rave about the "massive flavorful portions" and the outstanding value they receive, often describing the food amount as "literally crazy!" This is a destination for Californians looking for a hearty, authentic meal made with care. Whether you are looking for a satisfying breakfast to start your day, a quick but flavorful lunch, or an elaborate family dinner, La Ceiba provides an experience that is both cozy and genuinely Mexican.

What sets La Ceiba apart in the densely populated Mexican food scene of the Bay Area is its specialty in seafood alongside its classic Mexican fare. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, described by patrons as clean, filled with natural light, and smelling delightfully of homemade, non-greasy food. The menu is expansive, ranging from traditional favorites like Enchiladas and Chile Relleno to the show-stopping specialty dishes that truly highlight the kitchen’s expertise—the Molcajetes and various seafood cocktails.

The term "Molcajete" refers to the traditional mortar and pestle made from volcanic rock in which these spectacular dishes are served. At La Ceiba, the Molcajetes are truly epic, overflowing with grilled meats, seafood, cheese, and a rich, simmering sauce, served piping hot. Options like the Molcajete La Ceiba ($35.00) or the specialized Molcajete De Mariscos / Seafood Molcajete ($37.00) are designed to be a centerpiece, perfect for a memorable shared dining experience. This commitment to traditional, generous platters, combined with fast, friendly service, has solidified La Ceiba’s reputation as a must-visit San Jose restaurant.

La Ceiba is conveniently located in San Jose at 799 S 1st St, San Jose, CA 95113, USA. This highly accessible address ensures that diners from across the South Bay can easily plan a visit. The area benefits from excellent transportation connections, making it a natural hub for a diverse crowd.

Understanding the needs of the California community, La Ceiba places a strong emphasis on accessibility and convenience. The restaurant features a Wheelchair accessible entrance, a dedicated Wheelchair accessible parking lot, and comfortable Wheelchair accessible seating, ensuring that all guests can enjoy their meal without concern. For drivers, the provision of a Free parking lot and the availability of Free street parking are significant advantages in the busy urban environment of San Jose, making the trip hassle-free from start to finish.

La Ceiba offers multiple service channels to accommodate every dining preference, whether you’re planning a relaxed sit-down meal or need a delicious order on the go:

• Dine-in: Experience the cozy, casual atmosphere, complete with Table service.
• Outdoor Seating: Enjoy California's pleasant weather on the patio, a feature customers find particularly nice.
• Takeout: A fast and efficient option for grabbing food to enjoy at home or work.
• Delivery: Conveniently receive authentic Mexican food delivered directly to your location.
• Reservations Accepted: Guests planning an outing with Groups can reserve a table, streamlining the dining process.
• Full Dining Options: Available for Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert.

The restaurant’s many attractive features cater to a wide audience in the San Jose area, from families to solo diners:

• Seafood Specialization (Mariscos): A primary highlight, offering fresh, authentic coastal Mexican dishes like Aguachiles and various Ceviche Tostadas (shrimp, octopus, or mixed).
• Authentic Mexican Breakfast: Serving traditional Desayunos starting in the morning, including favorites like Huevos Rancheros ($14.99) and the richly seasoned Chilaquiles in both red and green sauces ($15.99).
• Generous 'Family' Portions: The menu features incredible shared platters like the Parrillada La Ceiba (4 Personas) for $63.26, or the elaborate Botana Familiar / Family Snack for nearly $100.00, providing an excellent value for groups.
• Diverse Drink Menu: Offers a wide selection, including Alcohol, Beer, and Cocktails for adults, along with refreshing non-alcoholic options like Aguas Frescas / Fresh Flavored Waters ($5.00) and Jugo De Naranja / Orange Juice ($9.00).
• Vegetarian-Friendly Options: The menu is varied and includes several dedicated dishes and easily adaptable items, such as the Súper Burrito Vegetariano ($11.00) and the popular Flautas De Papa ($14.99).
• Kids' Menu Availability: A dedicated Menú Infantil ensures that children are well-catered for with simple, satisfying options like a Cheese Quesadilla With Rice And Beans ($9.99).
• Homemade Sauces and Tortillas: Patrons particularly praise the “chef kisses” homemade sauces (green and red) and the option to order tacos on Handmade Tortillas Hechas A Mano ($4.25), a sign of true authenticity.

To plan your visit, make a reservation for a large party, or place a takeout order, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 799 S 1st St, San Jose, CA 95113, USA
• Phone: (408) 533-8033
• Mobile Phone: +1 408-533-8033

When visiting La Ceiba, local Californians should be prepared for a deep dive into Mexican flavor, moving beyond the familiar taco and burrito routine—though the tacos are certainly fantastic, especially on the handmade tortillas. The restaurant's true strength lies in its specialty dishes, offering culinary experiences that transport you straight to the coastal regions of Mexico.

For seafood enthusiasts, the "Diabla" style dishes are essential. Try the Camarones A La Diabla / Deviled Shrimp ($22.00) or the Filete A La Diabla / Deviled Fillet ($23.00), featuring succulent seafood bathed in a rich, spicy red sauce that is complex and satisfying without overwhelming the main ingredients. For a refreshing starter, the Aguachiles ($22.00) is a must-try: shrimp marinated in zesty lime juice with a vibrant green chili sauce, cucumber, and red onion—a bright, spicy favorite that is a specialty of the house.

If you prefer a warm, comforting meal, the variety of broths (Caldos) is impressive. The incredible Caldo 7 Mares / 7 Seas Broth ($24.00) is a masterpiece, a rich and deeply flavored soup packed with a variety of seafood, making it a perfect, restorative meal. For a group of friends or a date night with a dramatic flourish, the Molcajete Mixto / Mixed Molcajete ($36.00) is an excellent choice, offering a sizzling combination of meats and vegetables served in its traditional stone bowl.

Finally, the homemade sauces, often mentioned in customer reviews, are the secret ingredient that ties all these hearty meals together. The kitchen’s dedication to making these essential elements from scratch ensures that every bite, from a simple $3.00 taco to a complex seafood platter, carries the authentic and complex taste that California diners look for. La Ceiba delivers not just a meal, but a comprehensive, value-driven, and truly authentic Mexican dining experience in the heart of San Jose.

La Ceiba

799 S 1st St, San Jose, CA 95113, USA