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El Rosario

DavidE - 2-24-2012 at 02:15 PM

Friends ask me exactly where are "The Preferred Places To Eat" in El Rosario? Last October I received disappointing service and food for both dinner and breakfast in Mama Espinosa's place. The young man at Baja Cactus sent me on a snipe hunt round the curve toward the bridge looking for a restaurant, but my poor eyesight stopped me dead in my tracks.

Baja Cactus hotel has WiFi? Does a person need to sign in at the office for it? Do they have it all over the hotel?

Ateo - 2-24-2012 at 03:02 PM

Baja cactus wifi works in some rooms. I found sitting out on the steps in front of the office gave the best signal.

Try Mi Casita for food. If your heading south, do the left turn in El Rosario just pass Mamas and look for an orange restaurant (1/4 mile?) on the left called Mi Casita. They have wifi too.

gallesram - 2-24-2012 at 03:11 PM

If you go to this thread:

http://forums.bajanomad.com/viewthread.php?tid=58417&pag...

You'll see the answer to your question about restaurants half way down the post.

vacaenbaja - 2-24-2012 at 04:26 PM

When ever we are in or passing through El Rosario we
always stop at Tacos El Rosario and get a Quesa taco
or a torta. Really good and easy on the wallet. It is just
one of the many places that are on hwy1 as it cuts through
the town. I think that David K made a map of sorts of a number of the eateries in El Rosario. The problem is that
they may not always be open if you arrive late. For late nighters
I think that there are some taco stalls close to the Pemex.
I am sure others will mention their favorite places.
None of these places will rival Jardines
in San Q. where one can "Dine"

Bajahowodd - 2-24-2012 at 05:15 PM

It has been several years since we stopped staying in El Rosario, In my opinion, except for a quick bite at a taco stand, there are no restaurants to be recommended.

We regularly plan our trips to stay in the San Quintin area, where there are several really good restaurants.

We try to stay at Hotel Jardines heading South, where their restaurant is probably the best choice for dinner in the area. Since, that restaurant is not open for breakfast, and the owners' other restaurant, that does offer a great selection for breakfast (Viejo San Quintin), is several miles North causing a backtrack, we still do breakfast at Mama Espinosas. Been years since I felt their dinners were worthwhile, but they don't really screw up breakfast

David K - 2-24-2012 at 05:49 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DavidE
Friends ask me exactly where are "The Preferred Places To Eat" in El Rosario? Last October I received disappointing service and food for both dinner and breakfast in Mama Espinosa's place. The young man at Baja Cactus sent me on a snipe hunt round the curve toward the bridge looking for a restaurant, but my poor eyesight stopped me dead in my tracks.

Baja Cactus hotel has WiFi? Does a person need to sign in at the office for it? Do they have it all over the hotel?

The place nearest the bridge, 2.2 miles southbound from Baja Cactus Motel and Pemex is BAJA's BEST B & B, Restaurant/ Bar... It's no Jardines, but darn good specially if Ed Lusk is there. Better prices than Mama's for lobster and with some notice, abalone in season! It is almost across the highway from the newest motel in town the TURISTA with very good beds at very cheap prices. We stay there when Baja Cactus is full. They were building a restaurant in front of the place, so no idea if it ever opened or the quality.

BAJA'S BEST, EL ROSARIO:

Jan. 2009
,

July, 2011

TURISTA MOTEL, EL ROSARIO:

MAMA ESPINOZA'S, EL ROSARIO:

Photos of us with Anita 'Mama' Espinoza taken in July, 2009 (when she was 100... if you go with her first biography's birth year of 1908)

BAJA CACTUS MOTEL, EL ROSARIO:

Baja Cactus photos from July, 2011

[Edited on 2-25-2012 by David K]

David K - 2-24-2012 at 05:52 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by vacaenbaja
When ever we are in or passing through El Rosario we
always stop at Tacos El Rosario and get a Quesa taco
or a torta. Really good and easy on the wallet. It is just
one of the many places that are on hwy1 as it cuts through
the town. I think that David K made a map of sorts of a number of the eateries in El Rosario. The problem is that
they may not always be open if you arrive late. For late nighters
I think that there are some taco stalls close to the Pemex.
I am sure others will mention their favorite places.
None of these places will rival Jardines
in San Q. where one can "Dine"

Map made in 2006... some places have changed or been added or removed since. Ateo's recommended Mi Casita Restaurant is by the police station and tire shop.

David K - 2-24-2012 at 05:55 PM

Quote:

You can call the front desk and ask... maybe even talk to Antonio? Their phone numbers are on the home page http://www.bajacactus.com They also have a USA phone number: 619-694-1082 :light:

EL ROSARIO can easily become a Baja destination with so many local attractions as well as surfing, fishing, off roading ... if you want to see some of them, go to http://vivabaja.com/tours and scroll down to see the links for El Rosario area site photos...

Here is the list:

El Rosario Area:

Missions, Museum, La Bocana, La Lobera

Cactus Garden and Sauzalito mine ruins

Petrified Forest & La Bocana Beach

El Camino Real near Km. 80

Las Pintas Fossil Grotto

Los Martires to El Socorro, cactus forests, petroglyphs found!

Mision San Fernando and petros '05

Mina de San Fernando (plus mission and petros in '00)

El Marmol & El Volcan

Agua Dulce historic spring (plus Baja Cactus Motel)

Mama Espinoza Museum & Search for Santa Ursula

To Punta Baja and down the coast road

[Edited on 2-25-2012 by David K]

rubencastillo - 2-24-2012 at 06:05 PM

Thanks David, for the info, Is Hugo's art studio, restaurant,at No.. 36

David K - 2-24-2012 at 06:12 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by rubencastillo
Thanks David, for the info, Is Hugo's art studio, restaurant,at No.. 36

YES!

Hugo runs TACOS MISION, along Hwy. 1 in El Rosario (on the left hand side as you drive south... towards the far side of town) and has been doing beautiful paintings of the Baja landscape, missions, and abstracts for many years.

Enjoy his art while you feed on his awesome burritos or stuffed baked potatoes... or just stop in. His work is also on display in the Baja Cactus lobby and has been in some of the rooms.

I started taking photos of his work in 2004...

In 2005:

(my wife loved this one, so we bought it!)

Nov., 2005:

(I loved this one, so I bought it!)

In 2006:

Some of the photos were taken during the Baja-Rosario Cultural Fesival 2006, in which Hugo and others local painters displayed their work.

2008:

2011 (so far):

Outside Tacos Mision in May, 2011:

(El Vergel Photo)

Those are all the photos I have of Hugo's paintings... If anyone has others, please add them!

Thanks!!

Ateo - 2-24-2012 at 07:59 PM

DK, great work. Tacos Mision is the restaurant Baja Cactus employees have recommended to me. Never been there, but hoping to try. Thanks for adding Mi Casita to the discussion above. In my experience it is quality and great service. It's not the best place in Baja, but it's solid. Great Papas Fritas. They even brought a tray of the "leftovers" made during the cooking of our food. It was a basket of fries and carne asada. They didn't want the small pieces to go to waste.

mulegejim - 2-25-2012 at 08:51 AM

"Baja Cactus hotel has WiFi? Does a person need to sign in at the office for it? Do they have it all over the hotel?"

Actually they also have an ethernet connection in the rooms - at least the newer ones - I always have my own cord and just plug into the outlet. Works great. Jim

bigzaggin - 2-25-2012 at 09:06 AM

A vote for lesser-known taco joint La Pasadita - S side of the road, about 2/3rds of the way thru town as you head S (or East if you're being literal). Very good shrimp tacos. Awesome homemade hot sauce. Seems to be a favorite with passing truckers...usually a good sign.

Skipjack Joe - 2-25-2012 at 11:09 AM

Lot's of wonderful paintings, David.

If it were me I would have bought this one. But there several other desert scenes that were just as good.

David K - 2-25-2012 at 11:44 AM

Yah, Hugo has done great paintings indeed! Sadly, last time I visited with him (Apr., 2011) with Baja Cat and El Vergel, he had stopped painting... lost his motivation perhaps? Maybe it is the drop in tourism? Not sure...

David K - 2-25-2012 at 11:46 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by bigzaggin
A vote for lesser-known taco joint La Pasadita - S side of the road, about 2/3rds of the way thru town as you head S (or East if you're being literal). Very good shrimp tacos. Awesome homemade hot sauce. Seems to be a favorite with passing truckers...usually a good sign.

About where (or what number) on my 2006 map would this be?

dtutko1 - 2-25-2012 at 01:22 PM

Thanks David K. You are the bomb! We will stop at Hugos in a week or so. I like most of the art you posted. Hopefully he still has some to sell. What's the price range?

David K - 2-25-2012 at 03:45 PM

I am sure the prices are different than they were a few years ago when Hugo's work was on display at the government building in San Quintin and an art gallery in Ensenada... Just drop in and see what he has to offer. Good food... Point to the 'got baja?' sticker on his glass display case and say you are a friend of mine! :cool:

Bajahowodd - 2-25-2012 at 05:19 PM

Is there an election upcoming for the honorary mayor of El Rosario? :lol:

My vote is to re-elect DK.

Truth is the art that was featured was awesome.

But, methinks that DK's infatuation with Ed's place has more to do with the fact that he has Fox News playing on the TVs 24/7.

We experienced an absolutely awful breakfast(took forever, and the waitress was way more focused on her boyfriend than the customers: not to mention that the food was crappy) there a few years back, and would never consider doing it again.

David K - 2-25-2012 at 07:32 PM

'a few years back'... a lot of things change.

Ed's is completely remodeled and he doesn't smoke in the dining area and swat flies like we saw in the summer of a 'few years ago'... It is Baja, and like in the pre-pavement days you are guests of someone in their home. If you need fancy, then eat at Jardines (very good)... 20 some miles away.

Primo's La Bocana Beach Restaurant was really good... now (or at least last time) it sucked.

Things change and different strokes for different folks. I posted photos taken at three restaurants and two motels but I can't post tastes or mattress firmness!

I look forward to trying the new place in town Ateo recommends (Mi Casita) by the police station.

shitedetector - 2-26-2012 at 12:33 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
'a few years back'... a lot of things change.

Ed's is completely remodeled and he doesn't smoke in the dining area and swat flies like we saw in the summer of a 'few years ago'... It is Baja, and like in the pre-pavement days you are guests of someone in their home. If you need fancy, then eat at Jardines (very good)... 20 some miles away.

Primo's La Bocana Beach Restaurant was really good... now (or at least last time) it sucked.

Things change and different strokes for different folks. I posted photos taken at three restaurants and two motels but I can't post tastes or mattress firmness!

I look forward to trying the new place in town Ateo recommends (Mi Casita) by the police station.

That is cute but the reality is that we had a similar experience with the service a few years back and that spelled the end of giving Ed y Yolanda another penny.

Hypocrisy is fun as long as I am the one

BajaNomad - 2-26-2012 at 12:49 AM

The Wifi antenna at the Baja Cactus is the pole at the roof-level on the West side of the office building. That position (to me) is indicative of it's priority (at the present time) having more to do with connecting the gas station part of the business than the hotel guests. I'm guessing the only rooms in the new section that are able to connect at all are those upstairs.

If you bring an ethernet cable though, it's a smoking fast connection in each of the (new) rooms.

:biggrin:

ELINVESTIG8R - 2-26-2012 at 05:54 AM

Mama Espinoza's Restaurant is the best place in town to eat. You know it's good when the Delegado and Policia eat there all the time!

R.I.P.

woody with a view - 2-26-2012 at 08:03 AM

:saint:

Elsa, La Mijita :saint:

http://forums.bajanomad.com/viewthread.php?tid=38534#pid4127...

ELINVESTIG8R - 2-26-2012 at 08:04 AM

woody with a view - 2-26-2012 at 08:10 AM

Thanks, EL!!!

shitedetector - 2-26-2012 at 08:44 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by woody with a view
:saint:

Elsa, La Mijita :saint:

http://forums.bajanomad.com/viewthread.php?tid=38534#pid4127...

Gee that was timely. this was over 3 years ago but it super important to support them.

and Mama Espinozas is not the best food in town. It's ok but I know many who have gotten sick eating their so called "famous lobster rolls".

My vote is always for Hugo at the Mision and La Pina is a huge favorite as well. Right next to Mijita. Gee I hope I don't get caught in the cross fire of this huge drug war.

[Edited on 2-26-2012 by chitedetector]

David K - 2-26-2012 at 10:37 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by chitedetector

Quote:

Again... you are saying 'a few years back'... In Mexico, big things change in just months from a previous visit... A few years is like a new universe in a place like Baja. :light:

shitedetector - 2-26-2012 at 11:49 AM

and watch. with the new Station at Maneadero we will now see the enforcement of the tourist card where it states it out to be.

now it is obvious and a "few years ago" it was the writing on the wall.

ed and yolanda still won't ever get my business again and neither will Mama's for that matter

David K - 2-26-2012 at 06:38 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by chitedetector
and watch. with the new Station at Maneadero we will now see the enforcement of the tourist card where it states it out to be.

now it is obvious and a "few years ago" it was the writing on the wall.

ed and yolanda still won't ever get my business again and neither will Mama's for that matter

New station at Maneadero? If you mean the multi lane structure 10+ miles south of Maneadero, near Ejido Uruapan, that will be the Military Checkpoint's new home... they have nothing to do with INM (migra).

As for your harsh attitude about restaurants in Mexico and not checking back when you learn they have changed for the better... you may someday run out of places to eat. Better bring some peanut butter and jelly! :light:

shitedetector - 2-27-2012 at 12:37 AM

David,

Have never met you and you, never I, yet I find it funny you have stated I have a "harsh attitude" when what I have written previously here is not. Where am I being harsh ? The truth can cause offense I guess.

Ed can be a freak and many who have dealt with him before know this. If it doesn't jive with your love of promoting him then I owe you an apology.

That is my opinion and I am allowed it. No cursing and long rants, just my experience.

I have (and know of many) who chite there guts out after their first experience with a Mama Espinozas famous Lobster roll. We don't need to make this up or try to be "harsh". It is the truth and that can be hard to stomach in this instance.

The Maneadero discussion will be an eye opener for even one so hallowed in Baja experience as you.

BTW, I love peanut butter and jelly. It is easily found in Mexico.

[Edited on 2-27-2012 by chitedetector]

[Edited on 2-27-2012 by chitedetector]

David K - 2-27-2012 at 09:04 AM

Sounds harsh to me and proves it with this second insult of Ed Lusk above. Why, what did Ed ever do to you? Just wondering. People who never met me have some wild ideas about me, but I was only resonding to what you posted which was a harsh tone about a restaurant that wasn't good to you, many years ago.

Many years ago, people who must have never traveled in Baja in the old days before pavement made nasty comments about flies and a kitten walking under their table... like wow, what a protected life they lived, and what are they doing traveling a a 'third-world country'?

I hope when we meet it can be friendly like when I meet other Nomads, I apologize if my reaction to your post seemed unfriendly to you. Ed's place is much different than it was a few years ago.

DavidE - 2-27-2012 at 10:39 AM

Furtherance of personal opinions may not be in the best interests of this thread. Over the decades I have gotten intestinal distress after eating at such temples as El Rey Sol, Haliotes, and La Tortuga. Same for up here at Denny's, River Rock Casino buffet, and Harvey's Wagon Wheel.

Ship Happens!

Trueheart - 2-27-2012 at 11:06 AM

David E:

Okay, one place you mentioned raised an eyebrow ... Harveys's Wagon Wheel. Know it well, only Harvey's hasn't been the "Wagon Wheel" for decades, like four plus.

So, since "a few years back" has taken on some importance in this thread, I'd be curious to know the details and vintage of your attack at the "Wagon Wheel".

Steve

David K - 2-27-2012 at 11:07 AM

Have you been back to El Taco de Huitzilop... recently?

mtgoat666 - 2-27-2012 at 11:21 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
As for your harsh attitude about restaurants in Mexico and not checking back when you learn they have changed for the better... you may someday run out of places to eat. Better bring some peanut butter and jelly! :light:

people should not have such high expectations for roadside restaurants in rural areas!

and nothing wrong with packing meals to eat on the road,... easy to bring meals that are better than most you will find on the road! and bringing a lunch allows you to stop at nice vista to enjoy lunch in the outdoors... just saying... :bounce:

p.s. dk: are you disparaging peanut butter?

p.p.s. the best peanut butter is Laura Scudders All natural Nutty

DianaT - 2-27-2012 at 11:34 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
Sounds harsh to me and proves it with this second insult of Ed Lusk above. Why, what did Ed ever do to you? Just wondering. People who never met me have some wild ideas about me, but I was only resonding to what you posted which was a harsh tone about a restaurant that wasn't good to you, many years ago.

Many years ago, people who must have never traveled in Baja in the old days before pavement made nasty comments about flies and a kitten walking under their table...:

I hope when we meet it can be friendly like when I meet other Nomads, I apologize if my reaction to your post seemed unfriendly to you. Ed's place is much different than it was a few years ago.

David,

Here you go again with your distortions and assumptions. First of all, we have tried Ed's place since the remodel---gave it another chance, and it will be the final chance for several reasons. Please, allow people to have their own opinions about places without your judgement calls.

We were among those who complained about Ed's place in the past and you make such an ignorant assumption

Quote:

like wow, what a protected life they lived, and what are they doing traveling a a 'third-world country'

No, we lived in a third world country for a year and besides, Mexico is NOT a third-world country and they resent being called so.

If you like a place, great---but there is not something "wrong" with others who do not agree with you. Baja is many things to different people and their perception of what is good or bad about Baja is their perception------and their experiences are THEIR experiences and you are NOT there when they have those experiences so you do NOT know anything about their experience. It is like when we had the not so positive experience at San Borja on ONE of our visits there. You, of course, were sure it was because of us. You knew NOTHING about what happened because you were NOT there, but you were sure you knew better as to what happened. I could point out many more times, but they are ALL the same story.

For people who want maps and or GPS information, you can and do provide lots of information----you provide your OPINION about hotels, eateries etc. and that is good, but when people disagree or have different experiences, they are not harsh, wrong, or just not "proper" Baja people --- they just have different experiences.

Nothing wrong with you promoting your friends and their businesses and there is nothing wrong with the people who disagree with you about those businesses.

[Edited on 2-27-2012 by DianaT]

David K - 2-27-2012 at 07:47 PM

If someone got a bad meal or bad service "several years ago" and refuses to try the same business again... when it not only seems obvious the business has improved (otherwise it wouldn't still be open) or if others say it has improved, then that is pretty 'harsh' to blacklist a place after it has made improvements.

As for the other reply above that still doesn't see how Baja's Best (Ed's) has improved, well some people are never happy, can never be friendly, can never remain in a place for long, and there is no point in arguing with such a sour-puss. I prefer to be an optimist, give people more than one chance and want to help the businesses in Baja that have suffered, partly because the American economy has been nearly destroyed by politicians.

DianaT - 2-27-2012 at 08:24 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
If someone got a bad meal or bad service "several years ago" and refuses to try the same business again... when it not only seems obvious the business has improved (otherwise it wouldn't still be open) or if others say it has improved, then that is pretty 'harsh' to blacklist a place after it has made improvements.

As for the other reply above that still doesn't see how Baja's Best (Ed's) has improved, well some people are never happy, can never be friendly, can never remain in a place for long, and there is no point in arguing with such a sour-puss. I prefer to be an optimist, give people more than one chance and want to help the businesses in Baja that have suffered, partly because the American economy has been nearly destroyed by politicians.

No, you just like to continue the judgement and the name calling when people do not share your opinions.

Bajaboy - 2-27-2012 at 09:32 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by ELINVESTIG8R

Mama Espinoza's Restaurant is the best place in town to eat. You know it's good when the Delegado and Policia eat there all the time!

The place is a rip-off...only place in town giving a 10 to 1 exchange rate, too.

shitedetector - 2-27-2012 at 11:10 PM

Quote:

DaveK,

we are in Baja, Mexico right now. Where are you ?

DavidE - 2-28-2012 at 03:31 AM

Re: The Wagon Wheel,

Ate seafood one Sunday eve, and three hours later underwent horrid effects that need no elaboration. Definite food poisoning. It was shrimp based. You are quite correct about the time element --- 1977. Mammoth Lakes 1989, opening gala for a **** restaurant. Several hundred became ill including myself. I would not hesitate for a moment eat at any of the places I listed. I attempted to make the point that food preparation, handling and storage safety is not necessarily guaranteed by inference.

I would have to say that a majority of my bad experiences included shrimp or scallops, north or south of the border. My illnesses were intense, lasting around four hours, and feeling weak but relieved for the next day or so.

woody with a view - 2-28-2012 at 06:53 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by chitedetector

Quote:

Originally posted by woody with a view
:saint:

Elsa, La Mijita :saint:

http://forums.bajanomad.com/viewthread.php?tid=38534#pid4127...

just my way of honoring the memory of a friend. used to be the best food in ER, in my opinion. every time Elsa's name is brought up it keeps the flame on her memory flickering.....

as for the huge drug war, you're on your own! :lol:

chuckie - 2-28-2012 at 09:38 AM

I eat breakfast at Espinosas for reasons of nostalgia. As a really old Baja Rat, I remember when it was almost the only game in town, and how well Momma treated us..The restaurant in the front of the Siani (sp) is now one of my favorites...

David K - 2-28-2012 at 10:00 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by chuckie
I eat breakfast at Espinosas for reasons of nostalgia. As a really old Baja Rat, I remember when it was almost the only game in town, and how well Momma treated us..The restaurant in the front of the Siani (sp) is now one of my favorites...

That is Primo's 'La Bocana Beach Restautant' and he now owns the SINAHI Motel/ RV Park, behind it (he was adding Sinahi to the restaurant name or changing it last time we drove by)... We used to eat there often, until he lost his cook so food quality dropped and the wait staff was clueless last time we ate there... but like other places, things can change for the better.

What was great there was getting a pitcher of melon juice with breakfast... Had good machaca and eggs.

What I posted on my web page for July, 2005:

We join Bob H, Hook, Baja Nomad, Baja Cactus, and their
families for dinner Saturday at 'La Bocana Beach Restaurant',
located in front of the Motel Sinahi. Excellent food...

[Edited on 2-28-2012 by David K]

Bob H - 2-28-2012 at 10:11 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K

Quote:

I remember that day very well. The food was fantastic. I would always give it another try, any day!

David K - 2-28-2012 at 10:18 AM

The 2005 Baja-Rosario Festival web page (where the photo of Bob H giving the two thumbs up review is): http://vivabaja.com/705/

Santiago, Frigate Bird, BajaNomad, and Bob H's truck with Audrey inside, during our 4WD tour on the first day of El Cardonal, La Vibora Grade and Sauzalito copper mine.

[Edited on 2-28-2012 by David K]

Bajahowodd - 2-28-2012 at 05:42 PM

Ed's sucks. Always did, Always will.

La Bocana is absolutely on par with Mama's.

So, just saying that unless you are of the mind that somehow, Antonio's Baja Cactus is so much worth the idea of stopping, Y'all would have a better meal S/B at the Mision in Catavina, where the Los Pinos guys installed a real chef.

An, N/B a treasure trove of good eateries in the San Quintin area.

My personal opinion is that when Antonio remodeled his "Cactus", with so many upscale amenities, it served to draw many Baja travelers, simply because it was such a contrast to the many marginal, flea ridden and mold infested places farther South.

Absolutely no question that simply on a physical plant measurement, Baja Cactus rules. But there are too many downsides for us. Among the downside, the trucks, noise and the lack of really good dining places.

David K - 2-28-2012 at 05:47 PM

There are more restaurants in El Rosario if you don't want to walk into Ed's, Mama's or Primo's again... Plus many Taco stands... and pizza or hot dogs (if you just don't like Mexican food).

Udo - 2-28-2012 at 06:31 PM

Have you tried their "CRAB SOUP" (Sopa de Jaiba)?

It is to die for!
I'll make the drive from Orange County just to eat their soup.

Quote:

Originally posted by Bajaboy

Quote:

Originally posted by ELINVESTIG8R

Mama Espinoza's Restaurant is the best place in town to eat. You know it's good when the Delegado and Policia eat there all the time!

The place is a rip-off...only place in town giving a 10 to 1 exchange rate, too.

David K - 2-28-2012 at 10:57 PM

Udo, they have their minds shut as tight as a union member on election day... You, me and ELINVESIG8R can enjoy Mama's whenever we want (or the other Rosario eateries)... no snob factor needed! :smug:

David K - 2-29-2012 at 05:27 PM

Hi Frank... just think when it comes to food in Baja, one should have an open mind and not judge based on something from 'several years before', right?

woody with a view - 2-29-2012 at 05:27 PM

no chiite, Patchmaster!

i will vouch for the Mexican combo, i.e. the national dish. it's the only good thing i've eaten there.....

Photos at El Rosario Restaurants

David K - 2-29-2012 at 05:52 PM

Awesome lobster at Mama Espinoza's, for Thanksgiving 2004.

Sunday morning we have breakfast at Mama Espinoza's.
Here Antonio and Lorenia Muñoz (owners of Baja Cactus Motel and Pemex)
chat with Mama Espinoza's daughter Roli.

May, 2010 at Ed's 'Baja's Best Restaurant'

[Edited on 3-1-2012 by David K]

DENNIS - 3-1-2012 at 08:29 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bajaboy
The place is a rip-off...only place in town giving a 10 to 1 exchange rate, too.

I no longer see that as a rip-off, Zac. Times have changed so radically for Baja businesses that it's a big inconvenience to take US currency since they have to unload it as well. The Peso is holding it's own against the Dollar and our money isn't the insurance policy, nor is it the investment it once was.

I used to have a different opinion, but this is today's version, and I just don't see it as unreasonable for travelers to gather up some "coin of the realm" to spend in Mexico.

If travelers would just accept that the exchange will not be equitable, they may change their spending tactics and I see nothing wrong with that.

La Lobera Video

David K - 3-30-2012 at 07:25 PM

Found this showing the seal lions down inside the crater at La Lobera, 6 miles north of El Rosario and 3 miles to the coast following the power lines from Hwy. 1:

Bajaboy - 3-30-2012 at 07:58 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS

Quote:

Originally posted by Bajaboy
The place is a rip-off...only place in town giving a 10 to 1 exchange rate, too.

Dennis, I only use pesos when in Baja so no worries here. But I find it odd, that every other business and gas station was offering at least 11:1. I just get the feeling that Mama's like to stick it to the gringos. Not my kind of hospitality.

watizname - 3-30-2012 at 09:28 PM

Going South I like to stop at Jardins. Clean rooms, comfy beds, good showers, nice grounds and a killer restaurant for dinner. Up early and to El Rosario, where I fill up and hit Baja's Best for breakfast Nothing spectacular, but a decent meal, at about the right driving time to be hungry. I'll wait the "few years" before I dine at Mama's again.

[Edited on 3-31-2012 by watizname]

Bajahowodd - 3-31-2012 at 04:28 PM

Ed ought to re-name it Baja's Worst as far as I'm concerned. Fox News on the TV blaring from open to close. Slow service and crappy food.

Bottom line is that El Rosario provides nothing above mediocre food throughout.

rts551 - 3-31-2012 at 04:54 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bajahowodd
Ed ought to re-name it Baja's Worst as far as I'm concerned. Fox News on the TV blaring from open to close. Slow service and crappy food.

Bottom line is that El Rosario provides nothing above mediocre food throughout.

But he speaks English :lol:

cocojoe969 - 9-27-2012 at 12:32 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by rts551

Quote:

But he speaks English :lol:

At least it was Fox news and not MSNBC

David K - 9-27-2012 at 04:26 PM

Hi Cocojoe, welcome to Nomad... !

If Ed's showed MSNBC that one extra viewer may get their ratings up to 2...

Marc - 9-27-2012 at 06:05 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by rubencastillo
Thanks David, for the info, Is Hugo's art studio, restaurant,at No.. 36

Stay away from there if you are a gringo. You get the stink-eye and will be ignored for service. It's called Mision Tacos

24baja - 9-27-2012 at 07:53 PM

we juust finished a fine crab stuffed chille rellano dish that Ed made and it was to die for, were talking about thirty minutes ago. As far as lodging, the last few years we have been staying at the Turista and it is hard to beat at 300 pesos for two in a queen bed. Rooms have always been clean and the Wi-Fi that I am currently using is great and hassle free.

A relief

bajaguy - 9-27-2012 at 08:07 PM

Quote:

Maybe I won't see you there!!!!

David K - 9-27-2012 at 08:28 PM

No kidding... and Marc, Hugo does no operate that way. Sorry his replacement staff dissed you..

woody with a view - 9-28-2012 at 07:05 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Marc

Quote:

Originally posted by rubencastillo
Thanks David, for the info, Is Hugo's art studio, restaurant,at No.. 36

Stay away from there if you are a gringo. You get the stink-eye and will be ignored for service. It's called Mision Tacos

we had the same experience once. they had their chance for my coin. try the birria stand immediately south of this place. Ask for Berenicia. She is a very nice young lady and makes a mean birria. Nuevo Uruapan is the name.

Bajafun777 - 9-28-2012 at 07:43 AM

We try to experience as many different places to eat as we can when in our travels in Baja and Mainland. However, when we find a hotel with good beds that are not rock hard and a good air conditioner, well we are loyal to the end,LOL. If we go to a place and experience bad food our memories seem to always take us a little further down the road from that spot just human nature of survival I guess. I should note that we have on a few occassions returned to a place we received either bad food or bad service but it was only because friends wanted to go there again. Rarely, do we find the place to be somewhere that we will return even on the second go around. So, to each his or her own as it's our money and we will spend it where we feel we are getting the best things for us again just human nature,LOL. Take Care & Travel Safe----------------- "No Hurry, No Worry, Just FUN" bajafun777

watizname - 9-28-2012 at 08:37 PM

I try to leave Jardines early on the way south. Eds is perfect for breakfast. Nothing extraordinary, but a good breakfast to send you on your way. For my money, the first nite going south and Jardines is the BEST. Baja's Best for breakfast sets the mood for the trip. Ease on down the line. :cool:

David K - 9-29-2012 at 08:33 AM

I always get the chorizo breakfast burrito plate at Ed's... He tells me he buys the best quality chorizo, and it always tastes perfect.

I needed a replacement for this breakfast item I always got at Laura's Wet Buzzard/ Cielito Lindo/ Bahia San Quintin about 9-10 years ago!

Skipjack Joe - 1-6-2013 at 01:45 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Ateo
Baja cactus wifi works in some rooms. I found sitting out on the steps in front of the office gave the best signal.

Try Mi Casita for food. If your heading south, do the left turn in El Rosario just pass Mamas and look for an orange restaurant (1/4 mile?) on the left called Mi Casita. They have wifi too.

We followed your advice and ate there and liked the food very much.

Thank you.

We're finding that some of these smaller places and taco stands have better food than the sit-down restaurants.

acadist - 1-6-2013 at 07:33 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Skipjack Joe
Lot's of wonderful paintings, David.

If it were me I would have bought this one. But there several other desert scenes that were just as good.

He really captures the 'flavor' of the desert!

[Edited on 1-6-2013 by acadist]

monoloco - 1-6-2013 at 07:38 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
No kidding... and Marc, Hugo does no operate that way. Sorry his replacement staff dissed you..

Hugo's a nice guy and a great artist but the food there leaves a lot to be desired.

ligui - 1-6-2013 at 07:58 AM

I tried Sinahi/Sinai resturant 2 weeks ago . They were great ! I had the fish tacos , super good cooked in fresh oil . Must say they were some of the best tacos i've eaten in baja . I spoke with the cook and let her know how good they were and that i would let others know . Give them a try . Very clean and nice old photos to look at while waiting for your food .

I also checked out the rooms in the motel , clean with tv, hot water 24 , not bad with low price of 200 pesos .

David K - 1-6-2013 at 11:09 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by ligui
I tried Sinahi/Sinai resturant 2 weeks ago . They were great ! I had the fish tacos , super good cooked in fresh oil . Must say they were some of the best tacos i've eaten in baja . I spoke with the cook and let her know how good they were and that i would let others know . Give them a try . Very clean and nice old photos to look at while waiting for your food .

I also checked out the rooms in the motel , clean with tv, hot water 24 , not bad with low price of 200 pesos .

That's great to hear...! It was really good about 6-7 years ago, then he lost the chef he had... last couple times wasn't the same... So, this is a good report that (like other places in Baja) things can change for the better... otherwise they couldn't stay open!

redink - 1-6-2013 at 11:48 AM

We tried Sinahi/Sinai resturant Thursday December 13th, 2012. It was not a good meal. I fugured it was part of the ambiance eating by candle light or they had not paid their electricity bill. I also had to put it in 4wd to get up to the rv area with my camper on. It had been torrential downpouring rain the whole drive there and come to find out the electricity was out. They might make good food when they have electricty, but first impressions count even in baja.. lol..

We did however eat at mama espinozas on new years eve on our return trip. We both had the Lobster Burritos and both absolutely, most thouroughly enjoyed them.

rts551 - 1-6-2013 at 11:48 AM

last couple of times through El Rosario (including "mud bowl" 2012 in dec) Ed lusk had his gates closed and no cars out front.

PS its a mud bowl every time it rains there

woody with a view - 1-6-2013 at 11:57 AM

can't wait to get muddy next Saturday on the way thru.... :light:

ligui - 1-6-2013 at 12:24 PM

Hi Redink , sorry about the parking lot having mud , that will happen after a good rain , even in baja . :lol:

Food was good , ate there on x-mas day on my way back to the states . I've eaten in a lot places in baja the last 20 yrs . Not everything is 5 stars but when i find fresh fish and good people,clean kitchen , i think one needs to pass it on . I'll stop there again and let everyone know if it was a one time deal. :spingrin:

Ateo - 1-6-2013 at 12:27 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Skipjack Joe

Quote:

We followed your advice and ate there and liked the food very much.

Thank you.

We're finding that some of these smaller places and taco stands have better food than the sit-down restaurants.

I'm very happy to hear you had a pleasant experience there. They have great french fries and carne asada tortas.

David K - 1-6-2013 at 02:25 PM

As they say, win some, lose some.

Has any place in Baja that serves food been great 100% of the time, or were you just lucky the times you were there over the years (or unlucky as the case may be)?

Skipjack Joe - 1-6-2013 at 03:56 PM

Good point. I think that some of the restaurant criticism is based on what you happen to order.

I had a steak milanesa at some place at the end of town that was really bad (I expected one like at BOLA's Alejandra's). But perhaps they make great fish tacos.

I would have said that Loncheria Mary in Asuncion was just a bit above average. But on the last day I ordered chile relleno stuffed with cheese and tuna. It was great! Now I would go back again and again for just that.