Dine In The Chicano Park Cable Car

Located just down the block from the historic Chicano Park in Barrio Logan sits the Mexican eatery, El Carrito. Upon arrival, the large outdoor dining space, brightly colored decor, lively music, and delicious smells can make it easy to miss the fact that the building is actually an old cable car from the 1930’s. But with a closer look, the cable car shape takes form, and the ‘wow’ factor is amped up another notch. As their website shares, the San Diego Electric Railway used to run into Logan and National Avenue as far back as 1898, and the cable car pays homage to the history of the neighborhood and San Diego at-large. The concept of turning the cable car into a restaurant was the brainchild of Al Johnston, who bought and restored El Carrito after being inspired by Hollywood and other unique structures that have been converted into restaurants. 

While the inside is small, the menu is large, as are the multiple outdoor seating options. In the front, dining tables of all heights are situated with prime views of Logan Avenue – some attached to the building, some on the sidewalk, and others in a section of the street which has been converted into an additional patio space. Logan Avenue is beaming with Latino culture, and sitting outside gives you a chance to take in the sights, sounds, and smells, while you wait. On the weekends, low-rider cars which have been immaculately restored, cruise up and down the block, showing off their hydraulics, shiny custom paint jobs, and love for their neighborhood. Just through the restaurant sits the back patio with plenty of additional seating. The eclectic decor features brightly colored paintings, hanging plants, iron sculptures and reclaimed wood, which make the space both fun and functional. 

Now to the real reason to visit El Carrito – the food and drink! The menu features margaritas, beers, micheladas (known as a Santana Chelada) and specialty micheladas which are overflowing with Mexican candies and other treats.

Warning: it will be hard to pick just one dish as everything looks, smells, and sounds amazing. They are known for their assortment of chilaquiles, both red and green, which are affectionately called as “chillakillers”. The breakfast menu has other staples as well – huevos rancheros, enchiladas, omelets, and even pancakes. There are sopes, over-stuffed tortas, burritos, and tacos. Not to mention the ceviche! This time around, we had the El Jefe burrito, stuffed to the brim with carne asada, beans, rice, pico de gallo, cheese, and guacamole. We also tried the taco trio plate – the carne asada was tender, the carnitas was the perfect combination of crisp and juicy, and the grilled shrimp packed a nice punch from the chipotle sauce. The corn tortillas are incredibly fresh, and the salsa has great flavor with a nice kick of heat that hits you at the end of the bite. When you become members of the clean plate club, you know the food was good. 

What was the highlight of El Carrito Restaurant? Feeling connected to the community and sharing pride for the local culture. 

El Carrito
https://www.elcarritorestaurant.com
(619) 501-0095
2154 Logan Ave
San Diego, CA 92113