I like going down to TJ just for lunch on a weekday.
In the 90s, I did telecom work in the city on and off and drove all over with local engineers. They showed me the city and I ate where they ate. It is a different experience from revolution, which isn’t really normal.
TJ is a bustling city and there are lots of great restaurants. I love driving in big crowded cities where the only rule is “don’t run into anyone” and the lane lines don’t really mean all that much.
Every few months, I go down to get body work or upholstery done, have lunch, and buy a cheap bottle of rum. Just going into the supermarket is interesting. I discovered “Herdez” salsa years ago, before the sold it here.
I went to a bullfight once. I didn’t realize they actually killed the bull. Then I realized “matador” does mean “killer” in spanish and I’m like “duh.” I’m glad I saw it, but I’ll never do it again. I’d recommend it to anyone who really wants to experience Mexico, but it is a bit unsettling.
Restaurants I know of include El Taurino, Los Arcos, Las Carnes. There is a Guadalajara – something. Find an online dining guide to TJ and pick a place. Just take a cab in.
Things aren’t as much of a deal in Mexico as they used to be. It is usually a hassle and you don’t save all that much, but I love it. I suspect when retail has trouble here, the deals in Mex. will be better. Speaking Spanish means lower prices.
If you are looking for something in the US, just for fun try to find it in TJ – but don’t go to Revolucion. Go to a normal store where Mexicans would shop. That’s where you find deals. Need tile? Go to a tile store in TJ. Need furniture – go to a furniture store, not a Revolucion shop. Costco in TJ is pretty cool, too.
For the best fish tacos (and I really, really mean the absolute best), head 600 miles south and find Donny’s Tacos in Mulege. Then snorkel for clams in Bahia Concepcion.
