Baja California
Av. Ruíz 113, Col. Zona Centro, 22800 Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico
Established in 1892, the oldest cantina in Baja and the reputed birthplace of the margarita (invented here in 1941 for Margarita Henkel). Mariachis, peanut shells on the floor, and a near-unchanged room.
Haven't been here myself — came recommended from someone I trust.
Three-story Puerto Nuevo seafood restaurant founded in 1985, specializing in Puerto Nuevo-style lobster served steamed, ranchera, or thermidor with handmade flour tortillas and margaritas.
Rosarito institution open since 1984 and home of the famous taco perrón: handmade flour tortillas with cheese, marinated hanger steak, pinto beans, and house salsa.
Long-running Tijuana taco stand in Zona Centro, claiming over 50 years in business. Charcoal-grilled meats on handmade tortillas at a small, cash-only spot with limited outdoor seating.
Family-run Ensenada restaurant with Aztec-themed murals and a menu blending traditional Mexican cooking with pre-Hispanic dishes. Signature pit-cooked Texcoco-style lamb barbacoa, plus tlacoyos and quesadillas with squash blossom, huitlacoche, and rajas.
Daytime Tijuana seafood spot in Altabrisa serving fresh Baja-style mariscos.