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MAMA ESPINOZA

ELINVESTIG8R - 10-13-2008 at 09:15 AM

Hey everyone, Gerardo at Mama Espinozas Restaurant has joined Baja Nomad and is waiting for his password. As soon as he gets it he will come on line so you can give him some suggestions for the restaurant. Please be kind....

BajaGringo - 10-13-2008 at 09:21 AM

Will do David - what is his username???

LB - 10-13-2008 at 11:55 AM

We met up with friends on our way down last winter for breakfast. I did
not eat the sauce on the eggs or the potatoes. Those that did spent a lot
of time along the side of the road with the runs. First and last stop for us!

ELINVESTIG8R - 10-13-2008 at 11:55 AM

Hi Ron Gerardos user name is MAMAESPINOZA...He is just waiting for his password and he will be up and running. I am having a great time here. Mamas birthday is this coming weekend. 101 years old. She is still kicking strong. Take care Ron!

David

Pescador - 10-13-2008 at 03:37 PM

Mama's was a Baja tradition and a landmark but I have had 6 friends in the last two seasons stop for a meal and ended up seriously sick. And of course when they start to tell the story, then it seems that every one else has a number of friends with the same experience. That kind of word spreads fast, especially in the land without regular health inspections. I suspect that botulism and warm storage temperatures are the culprit, so MamaEspinoza needs to get real tight with thermometers and refrigerators to make sure this does not occur by storing things at the proper temperatures and making sure food is at the right temp when prepared.

Caveat Emptor!

toneart - 10-13-2008 at 05:10 PM

Yep! It happened to me two years ago. Bad food poisoning!!! I thought i was going to die. It is well documented by me in Nomad archives.

It is good they are setting up a Nomad presence. They need to hear it, not in a rude way but in a constructive way. Botulism is serious and dangerous. I think we have a responsibility to forewarn travelers. The locals there already are fully aware of it. I know! I had to spend three days in El Rosario, recovering.

Mama Espinoza is a nice woman. She has sponsored a lot of benevolent projects. Obviously, at 101, she is not in charge any more. It is not her fault. It is commendable, David, that you remain a loyal friend to her.

Bruce R Leech - 10-13-2008 at 05:26 PM

I use to love to stop and eat at Mamas but for the last 6 or 7 years the food has gotten very inconsistent and we also had problems with getting sick from poor food handling. I hope they take the criticism in the positive way that I intended and make the necessary changes, I would love to feel free to once again stop for a good meal and visit,

[Edited on 10-14-2008 by Bruce R Leech]

It can be a good meal as well...

David K - 10-13-2008 at 05:32 PM

Have had dinner at Mama's only a couple of times, usually have had breakfast there with Antonio (Baja Cactus)... always good!

Thanksgiving 2004, Baja Turkey (aka Lobster)!

May, 2005, with Antonio and Lorenia (Baja Cactus). That's Mama's daughter 'Roli' who runs the place...

If you look straight up from Antonio's head, you can see the bottom of one of my Viva Baja stickers that Roli had me autograph to Mama a few years ago...

Painting of Mama (Anita) Espinoza in her museum.

See more of the Anita Espinoza Museum at http://vivabaja.com/406

[Edited on 10-14-2008 by David K]

dao45 - 10-13-2008 at 09:11 PM

We have stopped at mamas twice once we were ignored for 30 minutes not even asked if we would like coffee.
second time had breakfast and it was so so.Thankfully we didnt get sick.
On the other hand the baja cactus motel was one of the nicest we have found in Baja.Especially the staff they were great

cabobaja - 10-13-2008 at 09:21 PM

Have eaten at Mama's for the past 30 years. Last time was July with the wife and two young son's. Have never gotten sick and the service has always been attentive. Guess we were lucky....for 30 years! Sorry others were not so lucky.

Leaving for San Diego in a few weeks. Will be staying at Baja Cactus and eating at Mama's.

tjBill - 10-13-2008 at 09:30 PM

Mama's sounds absolutely awful. :barf:

Thanks for the warning.

Sharksbaja - 10-14-2008 at 12:45 AM

I seriously doubt that Botulinum was responsible for your illness(es).
The symptoms suggest food-borne pathogens like those of shigella sp. or more likely clostridium sp.

Most common is the latter and found in many dirty kitchens. Tony it sounds like you had something even worse!

I got something last year from a quesoburro at a street vendor. I swear it was that damn mayo.

DK, YOU gave her an autograph? :lol:

How special!

http://forums.bajanomad.com/viewthread.php?tid=20826#pid1844...

Give her a big hug for us!

[Edited on 10-14-2008 by Sharksbaja]

MamaE.jpg - 43kB

Mexitron - 10-14-2008 at 04:08 AM

I have read that a lot of Montezuma's Revenge can be explained by differences in bacteria in water sources; that is--different bacteria than what we are used to. Mexicanos sometimes get the revenge when they drink our water too I'm told.

Ken Bondy - 10-14-2008 at 05:22 AM

When I returned from 6 months in Brazil in the late 60s I contracted something the docs called "amoebic dysentery". They said it was extremely dangerous. It was the sickest I have ever been, completely debilitating. Took about 3-4 months to recover, with many trips to a specialized doctor. I think I got it from eating something in Belem on the way home. I don't know what the scientific name of the bug is (was) but I wonder if it is something that others in this thread got.

PS have eaten at Mama Espinozas several times in the last 7 years and have never had any problems with food or service.

[Edited on 10-14-2008 by Ken Bondy]

ELINVESTIG8R - 10-14-2008 at 08:08 AM

Hey everyone yes it's true that Gerardo wants input from all sides. "The Good, The Bad and The Ugly." I told Rolli, Mama's daughter who now owns Mama Espinoza's about people's complaints and they really do want your input. I am just the facilitator because I am Mama Espinoza's prodigal son who returned home after 41 years. All I ask is that you give Gerardo constructive criticism and not be nasty. PLEASE. He will be online soon so give him a chance to get acclimatized to Baja Nomad. I bought him a Baja Nomad sticker next door at Baja Cactus which he now proudly displays on his vehicle. I finally got mine too. Ok I am off to Rancho El Metate where 40 years ago I helped build the house that is standing there. Take care. David

baja-spirit - 10-14-2008 at 08:08 AM

We stay at the Baja Cactus whenever we can and eat at MaMa's..
Have never had a bad stay at the Cactus and never a bad meal at MaMa's.
We have had good friendly service at both places.
Also thanks David, I never knew there was a musuem and I always enjoy your photos. You have been places in Baja that I will never get to see but I get to enjoy them from your camera's eye.. Keep up the good work.

Lobsterman - 10-14-2008 at 08:24 AM

Never had a bad meal there in 30 years. Just the thought of getting to Mama's when coming or going would start my mouth watering 100 miles in advance. I've even got my picture on their walls of fame. The lobster burritos are the best. And I should know!

Lobsterman

Bajaboy - 10-14-2008 at 08:38 AM

I've eaten at Mama's a few times through the years. To me the food has always been fair to good but a little over-priced.

I'd much rather walk a bit farther and hit one of the small little tacos stands or loncherias in town. To each his own...

I do look forward to having another Amigo aboard.

Zac

flyfishinPam - 10-14-2008 at 08:53 AM

I've never been to Mama Espinozas restaurant but we did stay in their three room hotel one night. Unfortunately the staff was very nasty to us when I requested a factura for business expenses (it was refused) and if there were another hotel to stay at (that we knew about) we would have never checked in there. The Cactus was not an option back then.

Since we were treated so poorly on check in at their hotel, we chose not to eat at the restaurant and found another place to the South that looked like it was run by gringos. It was clean, their staff was very friendly and the food was excellent! (I don't remember the name but it looked like a typical cafe) We went there two times during our one night stay (dinner and breakfast) and again on our southbound trip for dinner and breakfast again and that night we stayed at Sinai motel which is nearby (they gave me my factura).

Mama's looks like a nice place and I've always wanted to try it but have avoided it, however I will fo and eat there if things improve so I'll be watching this board for comments.

My input after 17 years in the restaurant industry is cleanliness if number one. If the outside area and the dining area, and bathroom are dirty then the kitchen will likely be even dirtier. Here in Loreto I see glaringly incorrect food handling procedures that result in diners becoming sick. Kitchens here tend to keep food around too long, they don't refrigerate things properly or heat them properly, they also don't wash their hands often enough (sometimes not at all). If I owned a restaurant I'd have a limited menu that changes daily because ingredients cannot always be found here consistently and maybe that's the case in El Rosario. Make specials that revolve around the ingredients of the season and change them when they run out. During slow seasons, only make limited amounts so there is less waste and things are always fresh. I always like to see an open kitchen so that I can peak in and look at how things are running and how clean it is inside. Maybe it can be partially opened so as to be viewable to the diners and not a mystery. Keep all visible areas immaculate and keep the bathroom very clean and well stocked with paper towels, tp and soap!

good luck, I hope mama espinoza's takes the advice and its great to see that they care enough to improve their business. I hope to go there some time.

Russ - 10-14-2008 at 09:23 AM

I was going to wait and post when Gerardo got on but I'll add my thoughts here instead:
1. Always wash your hands after using the restroom!
2. Use very hot soapy water to wash pots, pans and dining ware
3. Keep all counter surfaces cleaned with a bleach solution or the like.
4. Sauces should be fresh made daily or twice daily. Use Mama’s original recipes. Some of the food I’ve had there in the last 8 years should never have been served.
5. Keep covers on everything cold or hot.
6. Everything fresh and hot
7. Mamas’ the perfect location to do very well. But I can’t eat there again until I hear that the food won’t make me sick. I’ve gambled and lost the last 5 or 6 time I’ve eaten there and now hold out for burritos at Carmelas in Jesus Maria. I really wish Mamas all the best because of the long standing tradition and for my own selfish reason...You are convenient going North and South for me.
This is a good thread and I'm sure we all hope Mamas get those of us back that have bad experiences. I also grew up cooking and later managed a few Coco's/ Snack Shops

[Edited on 10-14-2008 by Russ]

Paulina - 10-14-2008 at 09:28 AM

We used to stop there to pick up food to go for Cody. She was on a toddler kick where she only wanted to eat beans and potato wrapped in a flour tortilla. While I waited for our order I liked to take a peek at the guest book to see who was down the road ahead of me. I usually recognized a name or two.

Each time we stopped the price of one burrito would jump quite a bit. We continued to stop and pay the price until the last time we stopped it took thirty minutes to get one burrito out of the kitchen. No, they weren't busy with customers, just busy chatting behind the counter, and stink eye me when I started to get impatient.

I've always felt that you can judge the health of the kitchen by it's bathroom.

The main reason we stopped eating there was because the bathrooms were filthy. I know it must be tough to keep them clean when so many travelers use them, but when I followed behind one of the ladies from the kitchen who didn't practice good hygene, there was no way that I wanted to eat anything she handled.

I got the feeling that the restaurant had to be surviving on nostalgia alone, because the food was poor, prices depended on who you were, unfriendly staff and unsanitary conditions in the bathroom only meant the kitchen probably left much to be desired. I didn't want to take that chance with my children.

P<*)))>{

[Edited on 14-10-2008 by Paulina]

David K - 10-14-2008 at 09:37 AM

Russ, Paulina... just a mile down he highway is 'Tacos Mision' (run by Hugo the artist) and you will love the burritos and stuffed baked potatoes there!

Anyway, no matter where in the world you go and eat, you will get sick somewhere, someday. It may be the water or it may be other issues. It is no fun, as I have experienced it too, but not at Espinoza's.

Corky, it was Rolli who asked me to sign the sticker to Mama... ir was not my idea. There must be some value to it, because Antonio at Alfonsina's asked me to do the same! :lol:

bajarasta1 - 10-14-2008 at 09:53 AM

our family has eaten there regularly in the past five years and never had a problem. they arge kind to us , and great with the kids. the prices are a bit elevated, but the remainder goes to support the orphanage. and we are not your average nomad( dreadlocks reggae vibe) which isnt always welcomed in a catholic mexican atmosphere.
as for the decor of the place we feel it is perfect. it is full of history, the history of the baja mil, the racers, that is mama's. and is what makes it unique. its been a must stop for every racer, and surfer(which we are) for over thirty years. heres my suggestions.
1. a few more pics and nostalgia of the orphanage.
2. if there has been problems in the kitchen(we have never noticed) then watch the food temps and storage carefully , as well as using sanitary clean up methods that are up to date.
3. remember gringos cant drink tap water in any form even ice or in cold soups. soups must be boiledfor at least five minuetes.
and remember as for what our opinion is worth. mamas is already perfect. its the safest place to stay and eat, gas up, and sleep. in the whole area. baja cactus hotel and mama espanosas is a tradition. we have no intention to break it. see you guys in early november....
one love
bajarasta

Skipjack Joe - 10-14-2008 at 09:56 AM

A note about why some get sick at Mama's and others do not.

I'm convinced that some people are more resistant to water born pathogens than others. During one of my trips to baja many years ago we picked up some bad water in Guerrero Negro, using it for all of our drinking needs. It took me about a week to figure out the cause of my ailments. But here's the thing. My wife was drinking the same water and had no ill effects whatsoever. Whether it was her immune system or the chemical makeup of her GI tract or I am just genetically predisposed to these critters, I don't know.

I agree with the idea that improper food storage is likely the biggest problem. It's just not kept at low enough temperatures. I sometimes suspect that the salsa that you don't finish with your chips is simply offered again to another customer with more added. I don't think they throw it away at all places.

It's usually hard to determine where your misfortunes begin. All I know is that when I cook my own food I never get sick.

David K - 10-14-2008 at 10:06 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajarasta1
our family has eaten there regularly in the past five years and never had a problem. they arge kind to us , and great with the kids. the prices are a bit elevated, but the remainder goes to support the orphanage. and we are not your average nomad( dreadlocks reggae vibe) which isnt always welcomed in a catholic mexican atmosphere.
as for the decor of the place we feel it is perfect. it is full of history, the history of the baja mil, the racers, that is mama's. and is what makes it unique. its been a must stop for every racer, and surfer(which we are) for over thirty years. heres my suggestions.
1. a few more pics and nostalgia of the orphanage.
2. if there has been problems in the kitchen(we have never noticed) then watch the food temps and storage carefully , as well as using sanitary clean up methods that are up to date.
3. remember gringos cant drink tap water in any form even ice or in cold soups. soups must be boiledfor at least five minuetes.
and remember as for what our opinion is worth. mamas is already perfect. its the safest place to stay and eat, gas up, and sleep. in the whole area. baja cactus hotel and mama espanosas is a tradition. we have no intention to break it. see you guys in early november....
one love
bajarasta

A lot of people talk about an orphanage supported by Mama... I am curious as to where it is, as no orphanage is in El Rosario from what I was told. The closest I know of is in Colonia V. Guerrero, but there may be another, closer?

To be specific:

toneart - 10-14-2008 at 11:07 AM

My stomach grenade was caused from eating crab burritos. I literally passed out the next day during one of my trips to the toilet. Fortunately I had a room at The Baja Cactus and Antonio, who happened to be there, personally looked after me.

This suggests poor refrigeration or poor food age monitoring. I have eaten crab before and since so I know it was not an allergic reaction.

Putting my story together with others who have reported here establishes a pattern. It doesn't mean you will get sick every time. Odds are, you will never experience a problem by stopping there on the occasional road trip.

I think it is the responsible thing to do in relating my story. People have to make their own decisions as to whether they want to take a chance. I am not willing to play Russian Roulette. The known pattern is not a pleasant one.

By the way, I have never gotten sick in street taco stands all over Mexico. Mulege has several great ones and I patronize them often. My gut is well acclimatized.
:biggrin:

Sharksbaja - 10-14-2008 at 11:14 AM

That sounds like vibrio. Nasty stuff associated with seafood poisonings. Coulda killed you!

I've never gotten sick there the many times I've eaten there. Check those temps daily Roli!

I'll have to stop in soon.

Bajaboy - 10-14-2008 at 11:32 AM

DK-

I concur about the quality of Tacos Mission. My gripe is the place is closed more often than open. I usually resort to the small red and white place just across the street.

Zac

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
Russ, Paulina... just a mile down he highway is 'Tacos Mision' (run by Hugo the artist) and you will love the burritos and stuffed baked potatoes there!

Anyway, no matter where in the world you go and eat, you will get sick somewhere, someday. It may be the water or it may be other issues. It is no fun, as I have experienced it too, but not at Espinoza's.

Corky, it was Rolli who asked me to sign the sticker to Mama... ir was not my idea. There must be some value to it, because Antonio at Alfonsina's asked me to do the same! :lol:

With what?

Dave - 10-14-2008 at 11:38 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Sharksbaja
Check those temps daily Roli!

I'll bet that if you checked 100 roadside restaurants you would find less than ten with a working food thermometer.

Any takers?

Cypress - 10-14-2008 at 12:45 PM

If your supplier is sending you bad stuff (seafood, poultry, beef or pork) you're in trouble before you even fire-up the burners.

CaboRon - 10-14-2008 at 12:51 PM

Wash your hands ..... and keep the mayo at 45 degrees farenheit !

fdt - 10-14-2008 at 01:12 PM

We used to stop there religiously but since the late 90's the food quality went down and the prices went up so now we just stop further down the road. Maybe Gerardo can pass along to all the staff at Mama Espinoza this, just in time;

http://www.globalhandwashingday.org/

Sharksbaja - 10-14-2008 at 03:28 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Dave

Quote:

Originally posted by Sharksbaja
Check those temps daily Roli!

I'll bet that if you checked 100 roadside restaurants you would find less than ten with a working food thermometer.

Any takers?

yep, and how many coolers work but run too warm. Clean those condenser coils regularly!

Suggestion? Baja Grande sendoff on November 28th

Ken Cooke - 10-14-2008 at 07:43 PM

I'm bringing the whole Baja Grande 2008 crew to Mama Espinozas's on November 28th as a sendoff for our weeklong trip in Baja (Norte y Sur).

Question: Can I show my DVD I just finished producing while we party it up that Friday night??? :bounce:

Here is the preview:
RETO HARDCORE 2008

Thanks in advance, that would be cool. I will bring along the rated PG version, the rated R version will stay back at the ranch.

ELINVESTIG8R - 10-14-2008 at 08:32 PM

Change one. I had to register Gerardo at Mama Espinoza's as GERARDO instead of MAMA ESPINOZA for the time being to get him a new password. He will be on soon to say hi.

David

surfer jim - 10-14-2008 at 10:55 PM

After reading all this it just reminds me why I never eat anything that I didn't bring myself.... :no:

2-tie-dye-4 - 10-15-2008 at 04:43 AM

I share the experiences with Rodorado (dao 45), and agree that Mama's left something to be desired, but I can't say enough good things about Baja Cactus. What a wonderful place to stay for so little money. And the staff is so caring and helpful. We needed a doctor and they hooked us up, first thing in the morning.

burnrope - 10-15-2008 at 12:24 PM

I've always had great chow at Mama's for 10+ years. It's only disappointing when she's out of lobster and serves crab instead. It's not like the Dungeness we get in Northern California. It's really stringy. Does anyone on the board know it's source? I've stayed in the hotel there and it's always been what I'd expect for a inexpensive room in Baja.

Cypress - 10-15-2008 at 12:37 PM

burnrope, Blue Crab is sorta stringy, but very tasty. Some seafood venders get "creative", they turn fish into crab, rays into scallops, one species of fish into another more expensive species, etc.

David K - 10-15-2008 at 03:52 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by burnrope
I've always had great chow at Mama's for 10+ years. It's only disappointing when she's out of lobster and serves crab instead. It's not like the Dungeness we get in Northern California. It's really stringy. Does anyone on the board know it's source? I've stayed in the hotel there and it's always been what I'd expect for a inexpensive room in Baja.

Try Baja Cactus Motel next door. One of the new rooms... $35-$40 unbelievable comfort, quality, atmosphere, service... for a Baja motel... or anywhere for that matter!

Hook - 10-15-2008 at 07:57 PM

I've eaten there four times, ranging from the 80s to maybe the late 90s.

Never got sick but I thought the food way overpriced towards the end and I concur with the slow kitchen. Used to be that I would stay around SQ on my first night down and then pull into the Pemex at ER in the AM. I'd send someone over for coffee while fueling, checking air, the boat trailer, etc. Seems like it always took 20 minutes to get 2 cups of java to go. When I'm headed south, I cant afford that during daylight driving hours.

The one time I actually sat down for breakfast, it took about 30 minutes to get our food.........and we were the only people in the place.

The help in there is not customer motivated, as Pauline described.

GeoRock - 10-16-2008 at 12:59 AM

My two cents:

(1) Speed up the service, it has been slow every time I eat at Moma's.

(2) Come by to check my table more often as I likely would like another beer, more salsa, or a water refill. It's tough to get a second beer here.

(3) When it is obvious that the meal is over, just bring the bill to the table. When I want to get back on the road, I don't like to try for 20 minutes to catch a waitress for the bill. Happens every time.

(4) Consider offering some other dishes without meat. And beans with no lard. And rice without the chicken broth. There are vegetarians, like myself, that do like to eat out also.

Good luck. My family loves to eat at Moma's, but when we are in a hurry we eat at the yellow restaurant a mile down the road. It is cleaner and faster with excellent service and food. The food tastes cleaner also, not as greasy.

jodiego - 11-15-2008 at 09:18 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by ELINVESTI8
Hey everyone, Gerardo at Mama Espinozas Restaurant has joined Baja Nomad and is waiting for his password. As soon as he gets it he will come on line so you can give him some suggestions for the restaurant. Please be kind....

Did I miss Gerardo's Baja Nomad debut?

DianaT - 11-15-2008 at 09:32 AM

John has fond memories from the past, especially when the road ended there.

However, last time we tried it we did not get sick, but over $10.00 for three very ordinary tacos along with poor service ended our stops at Mama's

Diane

Terry28 - 11-15-2008 at 10:58 AM

Been traveling south for 40 years..We used to like Mama's but no more!! poor food, poor service and way over priced. They seem to be banking on the reputation for the last 5-10 years or so. We won't be stopping in the future. We even gave it a few chances to see if we were just there on a bad day or two..nope, it was consistently poor...too bad it used to be a nice place.....

lingililingili - 11-15-2008 at 12:05 PM

We stopped at Mama's on our way here last week. We ate dinner and found the food just okay, not exceptional. We tried again for breakfast and, again, it was just okay and pricey. Our breakfast waitress had an attitude but we just chalked it up to a bad day. I don't eat salsa but BMG will eat anything in front of him and he did not get sick! So there you have it, our most recent report from four days ago.

BMG - 11-15-2008 at 12:17 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by lingililingili
... BMG will eat anything in front of him...

Not true! I am frequently caught snacking from neighboring plates to both my right and my left. As a consequence, I usually find myself with plenty of elbow room.

I thought the food was okay. Nothing special.

Would YOU go swimming

Dave - 11-15-2008 at 12:32 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by jodiego
Did I miss Gerardo's Baja Nomad debut?

in shark-infested waters?

Kell-Baja - 11-15-2008 at 03:03 PM

I would be curious to know if this thread has prompted any changes at Mama's? If so, what changes have been made?

jodiego - 11-15-2008 at 03:40 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Kell-Baja
I would be curious to know if this thread has prompted any changes at Mama's? If so, what changes have been made?

.

That was the purpose of my first post. Mama's son Gerardo was supposed come onto this board and field comments and criticisms from everyone regarding the food and the service at Mama's. Where oh where is ELINVEST18???? He was the one that was helping Gerardo get onto the internet.

woody with a view - 11-15-2008 at 04:14 PM

maybe Gerardo saw the comments and just decided to make the most of a bad situation and sell as much mediocre food for too much money as his kitchen will crank out!

a month ago we had one group who loved it and on the way home another couple hated it. 50/50 i guess.

we always eat at "la mijita" just south of the delegation, next to espinoza's market across from the school. simple food but.....

DEEELICIOUS!!!!

edit:spelling

[Edited on 11-15-2008 by woody in ob]

BajaGringo - 11-15-2008 at 04:16 PM

Ate at Mama Espinoza's on Thursday and had a great meal and service. The place seemed very clean, the waitress was very polite (and cute!) and the overall experience was very good. I will be making weekly trips between San Quintin and Rancho de Peña which is about a 35 minute drive south of El Rosario and will most likely make Mama's a regular stop...

[Edited on 11-15-2008 by BajaGringo]

Russ - 11-15-2008 at 05:16 PM

BajaGringo, I wish you great dining at Moma's. I don't really want to write it off as a "never go back" so keep us informed as you enjoy your meals there. Maybe you could borrow/copy a menu and post it here so we'll know what you're eating and if the food is really "expensive".
Maybe they'll comp you a cold one for passing along your experiences there.
OH! send photo of the waitress.

BajaGringo - 11-15-2008 at 09:04 PM

Will do!

Quote:

Originally posted by Russ
BajaGringo, I wish you great dining at Moma's. I don't really want to write it off as a "never go back" so keep us informed as you enjoy your meals there. Maybe you could borrow/copy a menu and post it here so we'll know what you're eating and if the food is really "expensive".
Maybe they'll comp you a cold one for passing along your experiences there.
OH! send photo of the waitress.

2-tie-dye-4 - 11-15-2008 at 10:07 PM

Georock,
I agree with you almost 100%. And, the yellow yestaurant down the street is great!! I never mentioned it because I don't know the name of it, except "the yellow restaurant. Be careful if the little boy does your bill, but don't worry, his Mama will come out after you to give you the money back, roflmao. The only thing I disagree with is I figure when in Rome.......so I wouldn't expect a menu change, but I do expect whatever they cook to be safe to eat, and made and served with pride. (I'm referring to Mamma's).

Mamas

bombero - 11-17-2008 at 07:41 AM

Several years ago we had dinner at Mamas. Service sucked. Food was late, luke warm and not tasty. Everyone was more interested in watching the Soaps on TV. Nothing like the old days when Mama was across the street with the "to die for tacos". Could not wait to get there! I,m waiting for the "Motel next door" to offer food on drinks.

Acuity - 11-17-2008 at 08:02 AM

We've had mixed experiences in recent visits. Ok breakfast, but the chicken enchiladas at night were the worst we've ever had - cold, swimming in a completely tasteless red sauce. Service is still friendly, but it's simply convenient, rather than a destination eating place.

Beachgirl - 11-18-2008 at 07:42 AM

We always stay at Baja Cactus. Love the rooms. The varied levels of the place give one a real sense of privacy. So much nicer than ugly US strip motels. We always eat at Mama's. Sure it takes a long time. Everything down here takes a long time. You can always ask for the quenta when you order so you don't have to wait, and have the right change in your pocket to just leave the dough on the table. Here's a little tip for the morning coffee....order some Java Juice from Javajuiceextract.com. Half an oz. of pure coffee in an indiv. packet. We just hate "room" coffee, and bolt early in the am, too, so it is just the ticket. Try it. Bring indiv. cream packets, maybe a small hot pot and git on the road! I keep a stash in my computer bag, in the truck, at the house...by the way, I can't comment on the quality of the food, because by the time I get down there I am so damned happy to just have a room and get some food and a cold one, well...

bajalera - 11-19-2008 at 12:49 PM

Pauline hit it right, I'd say, on the place relying on nostalgia. That was where everybody stopped when the road was dirt, it being the last outpost of civilization till San Ignacio.

What I remember most about about Mama's were three or four big roundish fossils that I can't remember the name of, propped up along one wall, and all the business cards stuck here and there, fluttering in the breeze (added mine but could never find it on later visits).

Last time we ate there was in 1972, just after the highway was completed. Couple of giggling young ladies were slow to provide simple fare because they were busy chatting. Beans were salty beyond edibility, shrimp appeared to be left over from the previous month, topped off with flour tortillas dating from the Pleistocene era.. Couldn't eat enough of anything to get sick.

Doesn't sound as if things have changed much since then.

Sharksbaja - 11-19-2008 at 02:08 PM

What did you have to drink 36 years ago. Ginko biloba? :lol:

Wiles - 11-19-2008 at 02:56 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Sharksbaja
What did you have to drink 36 years ago. Ginko biloba? :lol:

ELINVESTIG8R - 11-19-2008 at 04:24 PM

For those inquiring minds, I have no idea why Gerardo has not come onto the forum. While I was visiting last time I mentioned to him about some complaints I saw here on the forum and as he knows some English he said he would be a liaison for Mama Espinoza’s Restaurant. Next time I talk to him I will ask him why he did not come on.

Anyway, this is my two cents on Mama Espinosa’s Restaurant.

Whenever I visit Mama I always hang out in the kitchen when I am not out and about exploring. I watch the waitresses come and go placing their orders with the cooks who are at the stove preparing the orders. I watch the cooks take items from refrigeration to prepare food then put back what they do not use. I see them always cleaning up after themselves in the kitchen. I have seen all shifts on-duty doing the same thing during food preparation.

I know for a fact Rolli docks time from any employee who does not adhere to proper food handling. I know this to be true because I have heard stories from the girls themselves who work there regarding this issue.

For those of you who do not wish to eat at Mama Espinosa’s Restaurant, because of your past vomiting experiences or because it is too expensive, etc. that is your choice. There are a lot of restaurants and Taquerías up and down El Rosario where you can eat for a cheaper price. I have tried a few of them and some are better than others. I for one enjoy the cooking at Mama’s.

Sharksbaja - 11-19-2008 at 04:31 PM

What Dave said is most probable.

David K - 11-19-2008 at 05:09 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajalera
Pauline hit it right, I'd say, on the place relying on nostalgia. That was where everybody stopped when the road was dirt, it being the last outpost of civilization till San Ignacio.

What I remember most about about Mama's were three or four big roundish fossils that I can't remember the name of, propped up along one wall, and all the business cards stuck here and there, fluttering in the breeze (added mine but could never find it on later visits).

Last time we ate there was in 1972, just after the highway was completed. Couple of giggling young ladies were slow to provide simple fare because they were busy chatting. Beans were salty beyond edibility, shrimp appeared to be left over from the previous month, topped off with flour tortillas dating from the Pleistocene era.. Couldn't eat enough of anything to get sick.

Doesn't sound as if things have changed much since then.

Ammonites (sp?) are the fossilized giant sea snails that Mama had one or more of on display...

1973 was when pavement was advanced south of San Quintin (it reached the Mision San Fernando road in July of '73... and was completed in November... they hussled that year.

I have had mostly good experiences at Mama's... sure the bill is hard to get, but that is true at all restaurants in Mexico.

There are many other places to eat in El Rosario if you don't seek the tradition of Mama Espinoza's... good or bad.

Baja's Best at the far end of town (starbucks logo on side of building), La Bocana Beach Restaurant (in front of the Sinahi Motel & RV Park), and Hugo's Tacos Mision (and art studio!)... among others....

Maria - 11-19-2008 at 06:00 PM

I've been to Mama's 3 times for breakfast and it was excellent all three times. The last was a year ago. Thank you.

sourdough - 11-19-2008 at 06:24 PM

My wife and I travel between Loreto and the border six to eight times a year. When we're looking for a meal in El Rosario (often), we usually dine at La Bocana Beach. It's clean, reasonable, and convenient. The food is not out-of-this-world, but we're on the road with a destination in mind or staying at The Cactus with a good nights sleep a priority.
We've eaten at Mama Espinoza's twice and couldn't justify the extra pesos for a meal that was ho-hum.

Sourdough

BajaBad - 11-21-2008 at 12:54 PM

from info here - updated travel guide to say (and included link to BajaNomad...) :

Highlight: Mama Espinoza’s Restaurant – but maybe just for a beer, skip the tacos. A favorite haunt of Baja off-road racers, the walls of the restaurant feature many race participants (obviously having a very good time!). There is a Foosball table for kids.

Update as of November, 2008 - Many Baja Nomad travelers complain of becoming ill from eating at Mamas. To sign-up to the listserv click here: http://www.bajanomad.com.

-------------------------

thanks for info, BajaBad
www.vivalabaja.com

CaboRon - 11-21-2008 at 03:41 PM

On my last stay at Baja Cactus, Antonio recommended I try the Cameroon el Diablo at Mama's ....

The meal was totally bland, not anywhere "diablo" even I asked for muey picante ....

I think on my next trip up in May I will stay at Hotel-Jardins, which has a restaurant on the premises.

Once I check in I don't like to leave the property, just want a good meal and then to bed.

CaboRon

tripledigitken - 11-21-2008 at 03:46 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Sharksbaja
What did you have to drink 36 years ago. Ginko biloba? :lol:

Now that's funny!

:lol:

Phil S - 11-21-2008 at 05:37 PM

Wendy & I ate at Momma's, first of the week, and joined new acquaintances, Ken & Kim who own a sail boat moored in LaPaz. Neat couple from San Fran. area. We had a nice meal, and all the years I've never been sick eating there. And believe me, I have the kind of plumbing that will react !!!!!!!! And so far, not there. And I'm talking over 17 years of travel.
Weather here in Cabo has been GREAT!!!!!!! Wish I could bottle it up and send to everyone of you that aren't having good weather at home!!!!!!!

[Edited on 11-22-2008 by Phil S]

BajaGringo - 11-21-2008 at 05:52 PM

Ate again at Mama's a couple of days ago - this time I tried the soup. It was hot, delicious and my plumbing stayed flowing in the right direction with no upsets. Good food, friendly staff and very clean. Even brought me the bill within a minute or two of asking.

By the way, for those of you who don't know - it is considered discourteous in Mexico to bring the bill before it is requested. Just sitting at your table for 20 minutes after finished eating does not work. If you are in a hurry, just ask for the bill when your meal is served.

Did forget to get a photo of the waitress as someone had asked. Maybe next week...

David K - 11-21-2008 at 07:37 PM

Maybe they ARE reading Baja Nomad, now? :light:

Sharksbaja - 11-21-2008 at 09:28 PM

Quite possibly and it's interesting to note that long time travelers are willing to give it another try regardless of what's been said. True blue patrons for sure.

XRPhlang - 11-22-2008 at 07:29 PM

I don't know. I just like the place. It's the closest thing to a full service restaurant that El Rosario has. Meaning that, they serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, they're open all the time (reliable) and it's a warm, comfortable setting when you've been traveling a long ways. True they are a little pricey and the food is just ok (IMO), and I have been overcharged twice on the bill in the ten, or so times I've been there. But I for one am ok with Mama's. Besides, it is a great place to drop off a load of goodwill clothes on the way down. I know they will be put to good use.

XRPhlang - 11-22-2008 at 07:34 PM

Oh yeah. As far as plumbing goes, I am the canary in the coal mine and they've never made me sick.

David K - 11-22-2008 at 10:50 PM

There are more full service restaurants serving all three meals in El Rosario...

The two we enjoy most often past Mama Espinoza's are La Bocana Beach Restaurant (in front of the Sinahi Motel), and at the far end of town, on the right when southbound is Baja's Best Bed & Breakfast/ Restaurant. During lobster season ask Ed (the American owner) to prepare the lobster 'his style'!

Lobster

Steve&Debby - 11-24-2008 at 08:38 PM

David, When is lobster season? What is "His way" . Love that lobster with lots of butter and salt Ummmm Gooood :yes:

David K - 11-25-2008 at 09:09 AM

His (Ed Lusk's) way is to not over cook the thing like way too many places in Mexico do.... Garlic and butter for sure. 'Ed's Way' is not on the menu, so you need to ask it fixed his way... YUMMY!

I believe the season just began and runs through April... ? Shari or another Nomad would know better than I.

Ed's prices are much lower than Mama Espinoza's, too... The only questionable part is if Ed is there... Often he is out leading a tour to the mines or getting supplies for his bed & breakfast. Perhaps his esposa (Yolanda) can make it the same way if Ed isn't there?

Terry28 - 11-25-2008 at 09:37 AM

If Mama's not there...it's not Mama's

Russ - 11-25-2008 at 09:47 AM

Terry28, Perfect!

ELINVESTIG8R - 11-25-2008 at 09:54 AM

Mama is still with the living and is 101 years old. Here is a recent picture of her.

qtystarr - 12-10-2008 at 12:15 PM

we travel the baja a lot and off road race so we have eaten at Mamas a LOT..NEVER have had a bad meal or experience best lobster burritos in the world

ELINVESTIG8R - 12-10-2008 at 01:47 PM

I think all of you that had a bad experience years ago should go back and try the food again. I am here to tell you that Mama's restaurant is clean. Just do not eat the crab called Haiva. I have been told that even people with cast iron guts can get sick from eating it. Don't ask me why because I have no idea.

jodiego - 12-10-2008 at 01:56 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by ELINVESTI8
I think all of you that had a bad experience years ago should go back and try the food again. I am here to tell you that Mama's restaurant is clean. Just do not eat the crab called Haiva. I have been told that even people with cast iron guts can get sick from eating it. Don't ask me why because I have no idea.

Now there's a ringing endorsement for any restaurant!
:?:

ELINVESTIG8R - 12-10-2008 at 02:40 PM

It was a ringing endorsement because I eat there all the time when I go visit Mama.

bajabird - 12-10-2008 at 04:57 PM

I'll be there in a couple weeks! jaibas / lobster most importantly is to also say Hola

jodiego - 12-10-2008 at 05:55 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by ELINVESTI8
It was a ringing endorsement because I eat there all the time when I go visit Mama.

My point being, why would they serve a type of crab that makes "everyone" sick???

Paula - 12-10-2008 at 07:32 PM

UH-OH!

I think I've had enchiladas de jaiba everytime we;ve eaten at Mama's, which is only once or twice a year.

Guess I'll look for a new dish next time.

ELINVESTIG8R - 12-10-2008 at 08:55 PM

Don't eat the Haiva anywhere including Mama's. Some, not all do get sick eating it. Eat the Lobster instead.

Paula - 12-10-2008 at 09:02 PM

Thanks for the tip, ELINVESTI8,

Eating the lobster shouldn't be too hard :lol:

bajabird - 12-11-2008 at 03:54 PM

you internet peeps..... Jaibas are so tasty.

Drunken crab recipe. Don't get the wrong idea.... Clean your crabs, jeje
break apart the P-nchers, split the body section into halves, toss the meatless legs, crack the P-ncher sections to let flavor in..

On a turkey fry burner with a big big saute pan (like wok size), toss in a stick of butter, 4 cloves garlic bring to hot hot, toss in crab (or lobster) OR if you have fish, now is the time to throw on some filets as appetizers before you do the crabs.

Ok, crabs in..... throw a cup of tequilla in the sizzling saute pan, light it up after 30 seconds with a long stick lighter, FLAME THE ALCOHOL OFF, toss the crabs around, 2 minutes later, another cup o tequilla, (yes drink some when no one is looking first), toss it in, and again flame it. I have NEVER been ill from the Jaibas, and love them more than lobster! enjoy. Merry Christmas to all.
I will be eatin at mamas in 10 days and counting down