2 Best Restaurants in Baja California Norte, Los Cabos and the Baja Peninsula

Background Illustration for Restaurants

With a modern history not much older than the Carretera Transpeninsular, most Baja California towns have appropriated their local cuisine from the cultures of mainland Mexico. In many regions, the best lunches and dinners are had at curbside taco stands, where fried fish is served atop tortillas—with shredded cabbage and salsa to add at your discretion. It's hard to find a good sit-down restaurant south of Ensenada, but the few that exist usually serve fantastic local seafood. There are a handful of exceptional restaurants popping up in Ensenada and Valle de Guadalupe where award-winning chefs are offering a farm-to-table experience. When restaurants are limited, opt for the local hot spot, which is always a better option than paying premium for a chef's half-baked take on "international cuisine."

Mi Casa Supper Club

$$$ Fodor's Choice

What began as an underground supper club is now among the leading restaurants in Rosarito. Inspired by the founders' international travels, the decor reflects their love for Morocco and Bali while the regularly changing menu celebrates the Mediterranean and Mexico in dishes that incorporate local fish, such as yellowfin tuna with almond mojo. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the coastline, making it a popular brunch spot on weekends. Grab a table in the formal dining room or on the rooftop terrace (open May–December) where dishes like slow-cooked lamb with Oaxacan mole coloradito are served. Locals often drop by for live music and fresh-baked pastries served with a cup of sweet Moroccan tea.

Animalón

$$$$

Pull up an equipale barrel chair and savor lunch under the canopy of a 200-year-old oak tree at this open-air restaurant, chef Javier Plascencia's tribute to local producers and the Valle lifestyle. Featured dishes change almost weekly, but you might find duck confit, kanpachi tostadas, lobster tallarines, and rib eye with sweet corn. The intriguing menu has decor to match, starting with the lantern-strewn terrace and cowhide rugs across plank floors. Six- and nine-course tasting menus (available Wednesday–Sunday) have wine pairing options. Note that this outdoor restaurant is only open during summer and fall.

International $$$$ Lunch Dinner
Carretera Tecate–Ensenada, Ejido, Km 83, Valle de Guadalupe, 22750, Mexico
646-375–2658
www.animalonbaja.com
Known For
  • Tasting menu with wine pairing
  • Superlative hospitality and setting
  • Creative appetizers
Restaurant Details
Closed Mon. and Tues. and Nov.–Mar.

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