Tijuana: In the Forefront of Great Food
by Brian Shlonsky, Marie Estrada
Good food doesn't just feed your stomach—it feeds your soul. There's arguably no better place to feed both now than a city that's become a new player in the foodie world, just south of San Diego.
For years, Tijuana has had the stereotype as a place for good tacos — something readily available nearly everywhere you look. These days, tacos are just the beginning. Check many travel or food blogs, and you'll find that Tijuana is listed as a "must-go." The New York Times even listed Tijuana as a top destination - prompting many to call what's going on there a "culinary renaissance.
"The food and wine scenes in Baja California changed it all. You'll find a hipster food truck park among the most popular spots, and many people come from the U.S. to eat there. It is a movement feeding guests from all over the world. The whole scene, the beer and food scene, is working hard to improve the city and change its image.
If you know Tijuana's history, you know it wasn't always this way. It was once impossible to think of Tijuana without thinking of the violence, drugs, and crime. Sadly, Tijuana doesn't have the best reputation, but it's changing, and the restaurant and wine industries are helping to change it.
When asked during an interview what his favorite restaurant in San Diego is, food critic Anthony Bourdain (1956-2018) said, "No disrespect to San Diego; there are many fine restaurants. For my favorite restaurant in the area, I drive to Tijuana..."
Even with the progress, the people who live and work there know that the city will face more challenges. But once you've tried their food, you'll believe what they believe - right now, it's their food feeding the city's soul.
If you're nervous about traveling through Tijuana alone — or don't know what to do with your car — there are now tours offered to help. You can park on the U.S. side of the border and ride over. The tours even take you to the breweries, another part of the food scene exploding in Tijuana.