Top 10 Dishes to Savor in Ensenada

Situated between the majestic Desert Mountains and the shimmering Pacific Ocean, it's clear why Ensenada attracts many cruise visitors. This lively port on the northern Baja peninsula offers a wealth of experiences, including shopping, water sports, and cultural adventures.

Experiencing a culture is best done through its cuisine. Mexico boasts one of the most diverse culinary heritages in the world, and Baja California has emerged as a culinary hotspot for travelers. So, when you’re not lounging on the beach or exploring the city, you can enjoy some of the finest Mexican dishes available!

1. Tacos Baja Style

Arguably the most iconic dish from Ensenada, Baja-style tacos never fail to impress.

As with many dishes from the region, seafood takes center stage in Baja-style tacos. Fresh white fish like halibut, or occasionally succulent shrimp, are seasoned with Mexican spices and fried in a tempura-style batter. Wrapped in a corn tortilla and garnished with crispy shredded cabbage, homemade Pico de Gallo, and a zesty lime salsa, Baja-style fish tacos offer a crunchy, tangy experience that delights the palate!

2. Tostadas

Tostadas are a staple throughout Mexico, each region adding its own twist. In Ensenada, the focus is on seafood, of course!

Begin with a tortilla, deep-fried into a crunchy chip, then piled high with local treasures like sea urchin, ceviche, clams, shrimp, cod, and more. Simple yet scrumptious, tostadas rank among the best street foods in Ensenada. You can also find upscale versions at gourmet restaurants, featuring creative and modern toppings.

3. Lobster from Puerto Nuevo

Indulge in a feast of freshly caught lobster during your cruise getaway. Just a short drive north of Ensenada, the village of Puerto Nuevo is famed for its exceptional lobster.

Numerous restaurants in Ensenada feature the renowned Puerto Nuevo lobster, served in an unforgettable style—with tortillas, salsa, rice, and beans. One taste of this tender Puerto Nuevo lobster, and you might never want it prepared any other way!

4. Caesar Salad

Prepare to be amazed – the famous Caesar Salad actually traces its roots back to a restaurant in Tijuana, Mexico!

Indeed, this iconic salad featuring crispy romaine hearts, anchovies, lemon juice, egg yolk, and grated parmesan cheese is a true classic of Baja California cuisine. So, enjoying an authentic Caesar salad during your cruise to Ensenada not only makes for a delicious meal but also a fascinating story to share with your friends.

5. Camarones Enchilado

To uncover more about Ensenada’s vibrant and diverse culinary landscape, look no further than camarones enchilado.

Many visitors in search of the best food in Ensenada are surprised to discover that numerous dishes are influenced by comida china, or Chinese cuisine.

Camarones enchilado is a flavorful dish featuring pan-seared shrimp sautéed in olive oil with garlic, Pequin pepper, and salt. Enjoy it served over fried or white rice, or wrapped in a taco. Or why not both?

6. Tecate Bread

And no, we’re not referring to bread infused with beer. Tecate bread gets its name from the northern Baja city where it was first created. Sweet breads like conchas, orejas, and campechanas are staples in Mexican cuisine.

What sets Tecate’s version apart is the use of high-quality ingredients and traditional brick ovens for baking. One taste, and you’ll be hooked!

7. Mini or Baby Vegetables

Experience a delightful way to enjoy your veggies! With their burst of flavor, bite-sized vegetables have taken the culinary world by storm.

The northern Baja region of Mexico has been growing miniature vegetables for over 20 years. You’ll find them beautifully paired with premium meats and seafood in upscale restaurants throughout Ensenada.

8. Ceviche

Sampling the local seafood is always a treat when you’re near the ocean, and Ensenada serves it up in countless delicious variations.

Ceviche is light, refreshing, and utterly delicious—ideal for savoring on a sunny day. To prepare ceviche, fresh fish is marinated or 'cooked' in lime juice.

Then, it’s combined with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and a hint of chili pepper. This dish is tangy, nutritious, and delightful. Enjoy it with a local white wine from the area or a classic margarita, and you're set for a perfect day.

9. Machaca con Huevos

For breakfast enthusiasts, Ensenada offers some amazing options. Even if you’re not a breakfast fan, don’t fret—machaca con huevos is tasty at any time of the day.

Machaca is a spiced, dried shredded beef that hails from northern Mexico and is quite popular in Baja California. Served alongside eggs, chives, and potatoes, this hearty dish will leave you satisfied, happy, and ready to embark on a day of adventures.

10. Artisanal Cheese

Ensenada’s culinary scene is full of surprises, and artisanal cheese is one of the highlights. In the nearby area of Real del Castillo, several local farms craft their own fresh cheeses.

Look out for cheeses like Parma, Mancillas, Barajas, and Ramonetti, named after the farms that produce them. They make fantastic souvenirs to bring back home, and thanks to Ensenada’s Mediterranean-like climate, you can also find locally-produced olives to complement your cheese platter.

Whether you’re considering a cruise to Ensenada or have already secured your booking, thrilling adventures await you!

Dinogo still offers trips to Ensenada to help you make the most of your summer. With every journey, you can partake in exciting shore excursions, immerse yourself in a vibrant culture, and savor unique cuisine.