Tecate, First Class Cuisine
With so much to offer, Tecate is an alluring destination, and when it comes to the finest gastronomical experiences in Mexico, Baja California is at the forefront.
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When considering a travel destination, one criterion is that it must offer delicious culinary experiences.
▣ Usually, beyond the basic travel expenses of transportation and accommodations, a considerable portion of the budget goes for food. And when it comes down to it, sitting down to an excellent meal is always a good investment.
Tecate’s culinary scene has expanded in recent years, as Mexican gastronomy has made waves worldwide.
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These days, plenty of foodies choose Mexico as a destination that will satisfy their demanding taste buds, and Baja California is, in fact, constantly listed as a destination with flavors to discover.
Traditional Food
Recent Techniques
The culinary array has also evolved in Tecate.
▣ More restaurants have opened that are helmed by young chefs whose fresh ideas offer something different. Furthermore, greater attention is paid today to using traditional ingredients and techniques as a way of preserving Mexican cuisine.
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In this border Magical Town, the culinary panorama has grown over the last few years, with emblematic restaurants that you should make sure to try the next time you are in Tecate.
Not to Be Missed:
▣ Amores
One of the favorites among locals due to the many unexpected combinations it offers, its menu reflects an Asian, Mexican and French fusion served in the most attractive presentations. Chef Marcelo Hisaki represented Mexico in the Bocuse DOR 2023 international competition. There’s no reason to miss a visit to his restaurant to find out why it has merited international recognition!
▣ Asao
An attractive spot, with outdoor tables and the best hillside views, it is just right at different times of day. The menu offers fresh seafood and meat products. Known for grilled Mexican dishes, it is one of the most frequented restaurants.
▣ El Ciclo
Its menu can be defined as evocative cuisine, inspired in the past with elements and flavors that take you to another time in history. Not only can you savor Mexican recipes here but also masterfully-made pizzas, while another of its appeals is the price-quality ratio.
▣ El Mezquite
Another restaurant that has become a tradition in Tecate, it is in the hotel Estancia Inn and serves quality breakfasts and luncheons at decent prices. The menu is Mexican, and it offers an attractive list of domestic and international wines.
▣ Lugar de Nos
If you ask folks in Tecate for a recommendation, you’ll surely be given the name of this restaurant. It is one of the loveliest places to enjoy typical Baja California flavors. With the freshest seafood, finest cuts of meat and locally grown vegetables, the menu is diverse. Nevertheless, trying the seafood is not only highly recommended but perfect to combine with domestic wines or handcrafted beer, for which this destination is also known.
▣ CuMa
The name is an abbreviation of Cuchumá, the Kumiai people’s sacred mountain. It is a cozy spot that serves contemporary Mexican cuisine. Chef Eulogio Rivas uses traditional elements from the ethnic groups in the state and modern ones from across the border. The menu is based on local seasonal ingredients, and dishes can be paired with handcrafted wines and beers from the state.
▣ Ensamble 43
Avenida Revolución boasts this laid back, cozy place for a meal of meat served in different presentations, all of which reflect chef Gabriel Fierro’s creativity. Make sure not to miss the arrachera empanadas or the Chimi taco, made with pibil-style marinated suckling pig with red onion, cream of avocado and crispy pork rind powder. For a leisurely get-together with friends, the rib-eye sliders or tongue torta (a Mexican sandwich on a traditional roll) are perfect.
▣ El Cafecito Tres Estrellas
EL Cafecito Tres Estrellas is a member of the Rancho La Puerta family. Thanks to their organic garden, it provides a “farm to table” experience with dishes, menu and harmonious dining areas that adhere to the ideals of overall wellbeing that have won its spa so many international prizes.
▣ Vinoteca
Baja California wines are not to be passed up, and this is the ideal place to enjoy a unique assortment of labels. You don’t need to be a wine connoisseur, because this place has professional personnel to guide you through one of the best Tecate experiences. You can combine every bite of your delicious meal with the perfect sip.
▣ Bar Diana
This cozy, classic cantina is one of the places you have to visit at least once in your life. Open since 1957, it has truly become a tradition. When you are at one of its tables, you’ll most likely hear (if not, ask) some of the stories and legends told about this Magical Town.
The Bread Capital
Tecate is also known for offering a diverse array of baked goods.
▣ Homemade bread and bakery items are served in several places, where you can either sit and savor a baked treat with a hot cup of coffee or buy a piece to enjoy as you look around the Magical Town.
Besides pulling off chunks of rustic bread, you’ll probably want a piece of pastry to dunk for dessert. Panadería Reina Victoria is what you’ll hear repeatedly if you ask for recommendations of glorious pastry shops in Tecate.
The family-run bakery uses all local ingredients, from the flour to the dairy products, in addition to a stone oven, as tradition dictates… to retain the classic flavor of their creations.
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They also make modern baked goods, and you won’t be able to resist what you see on display. Don’t forget, though, to leave room to sample other options.
Some other outstanding places to taste more of these Tecate treats are: El Mejor Pan de Tecate, another one of the classics with artisanal techniques.
This bakery is the reason National Geographic named Tecate the Bread Capital. Open 24 hours, it’s a dream come true! At about 4,040 feet above sea level, La Rumorosa is home to Dulce Altura, literally Sweet Height, where you will find the spongiest bread; the atmospheric pressure is the secret ingredient.
◪ The roadside Panadería La Rumorosa is another excellent alternative, and you won’t want to miss El Buen Pan de Tecate or Panadería Las Delicias either.
If you’re in the mood one afternoon for some good coffee and a nice piece of pastry, grab one of the tables at Casa París, where they make lovely pastry and desserts that you’ll want to have with a perfectly prepared beverage.
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Coffee is also the specialty at Acento Coffee Roasters, offering hand-roasted beans, both local and from a number of places around the country.
Not to miss: another favorite is Corteza, which serves specialty coffee, pastry and handcrafted beer. Locals like to go to this little café for a good aromatic cup of coffee, as they sit and read a book, relax or meet up with good friends and catch up over a delicious hot or cold drink.
It’s time to visit northern Mexico to savor everything the region offers!
Every mouthful promises a new experience and memories of having enjoyed one of the many treasures Tecate has to share with its visitors.
