Rosarito

Going Mobile: Rosarito’s Blue Barbershop Bus

Jack E. George — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 14:44:20 +0000

Going Mobile: Rosarito’s Blue Barbershop Bus

Need a haircut? Visit Rosarito’s blue barbershop bus, also known as Ozrey.

If you live in Rosarito, no more excuses about how much time it takes to get a haircut. It’s quicker and easier than ever. All you need to do is walk one block east from the main boulevard and you’ll find Rosarito’s newest and most eye-catching barbershop. Named “Ozrey,” the bus and mobile salon is owned by a man named Hector. Hector is always in a happy mood. When asked how he can work long hours seven days a week, he explains, “You must love your job. You must love what you are doing.”

Hector puts the finishing touches on a haircut.

Hector was born in Mexico. He left the country at the young age of nine years old and ended up in Las Vegas, Nevada. There he quickly found a job as a dishwasher at the Mirage Casino. Later he moved to Chicago, Illinois where he opened his first barbershop. This was followed by a second and then a third shop. In recent years, however, he had become discouraged with the economy in the United States, along with all of the bureaucracy a business owner faces. During one of his vacations to Puerto Rico he observed a number of mobile barbershops converted from small buses. The more he saw these the more inspiration he gained – he decided he would return to Rosarito, the former home to his grandparents, and operate a barbershop on wheels.

Hector takes a quick break between customers.

He began his search for just the right bus. Living in Chicago there were an abundance of buses for sale; however, if you look at the license plate on his business you will discover it is from Missouri. He paid $1500 for the used school bus. It had 70,000 miles. Aside from the other amenities he paid an additional $650 for each of the barber poles. It cost another $700 to bring the bus into Mexico. He opened his business eight months ago and he is very pleased with the success he is experiencing. He said most of his customers are locals and younger men. On this particular day there were four young men in his ‘shop.’ They ranged in age from 12 to 16. One of them showed Hector his cell phone. This displayed pictures of the haircut he wanted. Another brought his computer. He also showed pictures of his favored haircut. Hector says he mostly has young customers, through word of mouth, as the young people are very particular about their haircuts, and he has proved his ‘creativity and talent’ with this age group.

Rosarito’s blue barbershop bus certainly doesn’t lack creature comforts.

Before opening his business Hector knew exactly what he wanted his bus to look like. He could close his eyes and see it parked on the street. After purchasing the bus he immediately started converting it to match the vision he saw in his mind. He first removed the seats in the bus. He reinforced the floors to handle the weight of the barber chairs. He added a long bench for ‘waiting customers’ to sit. Next Hector installed the wide-screen TV along with Wi-Fi. The generator was placed in front of the bus to handle the electrical load. It also keeps the ‘barber poles’ running throughout the business day. Instead of paying rent he pays $200 per year for the permit. In the evening, when he closes shop, he hops behind the driver’s seat and takes his business home. In the near future Hector will begin offering cold beer to customers 18 years and older who want a cool beverage while they wait. The beer will be complimentary. Aside from cutting men’s and boy’s hair he also offers shaves and ‘menscaping.’ Hector offers his haircuts for 60 pesos – and this includes beer, for those of age, Wi-Fi, wide-screen TV and all of the other features available in his ‘shop.’

Hector isn’t resting on his laurels, either. He has plans to expand. Although he originally wanted to open a second location in La Paz, he has reconsidered and decided he will open the next mobile barbershop in Ensenada. He will hire a barber to operate the bus, and hopes to open by July. The only difference between the two ‘offices’ is that the Ensenada bus will be a double-decker. His plans are to offer a bar on the upper floor where men can have a drink, talk, watch sports, work on their computer, or just relax while they wait for their haircut. Rosarito’s blue barbershop bus is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. on the weekend.You can reach Hector at 661-527-7549.

Planning a trip to Rosarito? Contact a travel agent at Baja.com.

Baja.com is a comprehensive online source of first-hand travel information for the Baja California Peninsula, supported by a full-service tour operator staffed by Baja locals (our “Baja Travel Savants”). We offer Baja travelers expert advice about local restaurants, hotels and vacation rentals, as well as guides, maps and articles about events, sports and activities. We provide bilingual customer support, information and sales seven days a week, 365 days a year. For more information, please call toll-free (US/CAN) 855-BAJA-411 or email us at info@baja.com.

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4th Annual Rosarito Art Fest Was a Delight for the Senses

Scott Koenig — Tue, 04 Jun 2013 09:20:01 +0000

4th Annual Rosarito Art Fest Was a Delight for the Senses

The Fourth Annual Rosarito Art Fest was a big success this year, with initial estimates forecasting an attendance of 18,000 people over the past Memorial Day weekend. This number has grown exponentially since the event’s inception in 2009. The actual numbers are not yet available as of this post, but from what your Gringo could see, they weren’t far off the mark. A festive crowd of locals from Tijuana and the region mixed with visitors from north of the border and the area’s ex-pat population to enjoy the work of Baja-based artists, performers, artisanal food vendors, craft breweries and regional winemakers.

Raising the banner for the Rosarito Art Fest 2013.

Enjoying the day at the Rosarito Art Fest 2013.

Over 100 artists displayed and sold a variety of stylish masterpieces in front of the Rosarito Beach Hotel. The colorful and rich heritage of the region was well-represented by painters, sculptors, jewelry-makers, fashion designers and other artisans who seemed to be enjoying the positive vibe and exposure the Art Fest brings (not to mention the beautiful 70 degree day). Your Gringo watched an amazing quartet of guitarists and an artfully executed ballet performance.

Artist Antonio Proa from Tijuana displays his colorful artwork.

A fun family of dolls on display from artist Esau Andrade.

Ballerinas perform on the main stage at the Rosarito Art Fest.

A quartet of excellent guitarists serenade the crowd.

Tijuana’s Vamonos de Tapas serves up a delicious Paella de Mariscos.

A variety of artisanal breads and cheeses available for sample and purchase. Yum!

Several charitable organizations were represented and used art as a catalyst to promote their causes. Among them was Es Por Los Niños A.C., whose mission is “To prevent transmission of HIV from mother to child and provide social support to improve the quality of life in women, adolescents, children infected with HIV/AIDS, as well as their families”. I spoke with Rosalva Martha-Patten, the President and Founder, who indicated that though the number of children born with HIV has declined in the US, it is on the rise in Mexico’s border cities such as Tijuana. The organization displayed a very nice collection of artwork from children who participate in or are otherwise involved with the charity.

A young area artist proudly displays her work among her classmate’s

The burgeoning regional craft beer industry was represented by Cerveza Tijuana, who offer six varieties including Rosarito Beach American Lager. These beers are tasty and I’m not sure if they’re available yet in the US. So you’ll just have to get down to Baja California yourself to try them!

Cerveza Tijiuana offer several satisfying craft brews, including Rosarito Beach Lager.

We enjoyed our day at the Rosarito Art Fest immensely, and it was great to see a world-class cultural event taking place in a city that has sometimes been synonymous with “party town” in the past. Your Gringo is excited to attend more Mexican cultural festivals in the coming months, so stay tuned!

Planning a trip to Rosarito? Contact a travel agent at Baja.com.

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Love At First Bite: Nuevo Amore Adds Italian Flavor to Rosarito Dining Scene

Jack E. George — Tue, 14 May 2013 15:46:29 +0000

Love At First Bite: Nuevo Amore Adds Italian Flavor to Rosarito Dining Scene

No need to dash off to Italy when you have an overwhelming craving for Italian food. Instead, visit Nuevo Amore, located on the main street in Rosarito across from Quinta del Mar. The restaurant has been in operation since 2005 although it was previously named That’s Amore. When new owners Jose Sanchez and Rich von Langen took over ownership a year ago, they changed the name and made some significant improvements to the restaurant.

Aside from the new name, the restaurant has gone through an extensive renovation. According to Rich, “We completely repainted the interior of the restaurant, added some different lighting, and recovered the chairs. This was all done to create a cozier, more inviting atmosphere. Small touches are everywhere; some new artwork and the addition of swinging kitchen doors that form a heart at the top when closed.” The kitchen was also remodeled in order to make it more efficient.

Along with the other changes, the food and beverage menus were revised and simplified. Rich explained that a number of the popular dishes were kept while a few new ones were added. He said, “The good news is after looking at our food costs we were able to reduce many of the prices to encourage guests to come for the first time and to offer our returning guests a little more for their money.” Nuevo Amore has also made some staff changes in order to improve and expand their service. For example, the entire staff is now bilingual.

Rich and Jose are proud of the fact that they make their own bread, dough, soups and sauces, along with ‘custom-made’ raviolis, sausage and mouth-watering deserts from scratch. Their goal is to provide each guest a memorable dining experience and fresh and delicious food.

Many diners begin their experience by choosing antipasto. Selections such as steamed clams and Bruschetta offer a great introduction to your Italian meal, and are typically followed by a soup and salad. The menu always features a homemade soup of the day, along with a variety of salads, including traditional favorites like Caesar salad and Waldorf salad with chicken. Diners may also choose from a number of Nuevo Amore pasta dishes and secondi plates, from spaghetti and lasagna to linguini with clams and cheese ravioli. It’s also hard to go wrong with pizza, especially since the customer chooses all of the ingredients. For dessert, try the decadent chocolate amore, or sample a digestif from the bar. A nice selection of wines are also offered.

The restaurant has been mentioned as one of the best Italian restaurants in all of Baja California. That’s quite a reputation to live up to, but given the renovation, new menu, dedicated staff, delicious food, and determined owners, it appears Nuevo Amore will continue to receive high marks.

Baja.com is a comprehensive online source of first-hand travel information for the Baja California Peninsula, supported by a full-service tour operator staffed by Baja locals (our “Baja Travel Savants”). We offer Baja travelers expert advice about local restaurants, hotels and vacation rentals, as well as guides, maps and articles about events, sports and activities. We provide bilingual customer support, information and sales seven days a week, 365 days a year. For more information, please call toll-free (US/CAN) 855-BAJA-411 or email us at info@baja.com.

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Fourth Annual Rosarito Art Fest Promises Plenty of Local Colors

Jack E. George — Wed, 01 May 2013 15:18:15 +0000

Fourth Annual Rosarito Art Fest Promises Plenty of Local Colors

by Jack E. George

The Fourth Annual Rosarito Art Fest is just around the corner, and if previous festivals are any indication, we will be treated to some great art work, as well as international food and world-class entertainment. If that isn’t enough, the event is free, according to the Committee Chairman, Benito del Aguila. This is the fourth time Aguila has chaired the Rosarito Art Fest, which will take place during Memorial Day weekend, May 25-26.

Gallery owner Benito del Aguila is acting chairman for the Fourth Annual Rosarito Art Fest.

Benito was born in Mexico City and moved to Baja at an early age. Although he owns his own art gallery, he is not an artist. He is more of a leader and a director of the art community. Local artists look to him when they have questions, ideas for promoting art in Rosarito, or need to make plans for an event. Benito started his career as a teacher. He became motivated to learn more about the masters early in his life. His hobby then turned into a passion to learn more and more. This eventually led to the opening of his first art gallery. This came at a time when the local economy started its decline.

Esau Andrade will be displaying his work at the Fourth Annual Rosarito Art Fest.

Motivated and determined, Benito moved his gallery to Rosarito, where he has operated the Baja Art Gallery for a number of years. Through his acquaintances, and after establishing himself in our community, Benito has worked with most of the local artists. His art studio displays many of their works. For example, Esau Andrade’s art is prominent in the studio. Esau’s unique style and blends of color are reason enough to make him one of the outstanding local talents. Born in Tepic, Nayarit, Mexico, he comes from a family of artists, including his mother and brother. He became a serious artist after he attended la ‘Escuela de Artes Plasticas’ at the University of Guadalajara.

Andrade’s “Arbol de la Vida,” or “Tree of Life,” will be displayed at the Fourth Annual Rosarito Art Fest.

Aside from his local creations, Esau’s paintings are included in the collections at the Museum of Latin American Art in Long Beach. In San Miguel del Valle, New Mexico, his work is presented at Saint Michael Church. Esau’s work is also on display at The Chrysler Company in San Antonio, Texas as well as at the Hispanic Broadcasting Company in Los Angeles, and the Downey Museum of Art in Downey, California. He also offers one man exhibitions at Galeria Uno in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, as well as a number of other areas in North America. He will be one of the more than 100 artists who will be present at the Rosarito Art Fest. Joining him will be fellow artist, Alfonso Arambula Robles who specializes in sculptures.

More than 100 artists will have work showcased at the Fourth Annual Rosarito Art Fest.

Born in Ensenada, Alfonso says his inspiration comes from his love for nature and the universe. Alfonso studied art at Palomar College in San Diego, CA. Like Esau he first started his career as a teacher. His art pieces can be discovered in countries all over the world, including Mexico, Japan, Spain, and the U.S. In addition to sculpture, he also presents art workshops nationally and internationally, and often enters art exhibitions. He won first place in the Biennial Sculpture contest organized by the Culture Institute of Baja with his sculpture, “The Soaked Cow.” This piece is presently on exhibit at the gardens located in the Port of Ensenada. He also won a FOECA (Fondo Estatal para la Cultura y las Artes) grant with his five meter long creation of “The Whale Shark.” Most likely Alfonso will be creating some new sculptures during the Rosarito Art Fest.

More than 18,000 people are expected to attend the Fourth Annual Rosarito Art Fest.

Esau and Alfonso are just two of the well-known artists who will be appearing at the festival, according to Benito. The event will feature 150 tents offering a variety of works. There will also be an International food court as well as performances featuring dancers and singers. The show will conclude with a performance by the world-renowned Baja California Orchestra. The first year the event drew 6,000 people. This number tripled within three years. Benito anticipates a crowd of 18,000 to attend this year’s Fourth Annual Rosarito Art Fest, making the show one of the most important events in northern Mexico.

Want to explore Rosarito? There are many hotels and vacation rentals in the Rosarito area.

Baja.com is a comprehensive online source of first-hand travel information for the Baja California Peninsula, supported by a full-service tour operator staffed by Baja locals (our “Baja Travel Savants”). We offer Baja travelers expert advice about local restaurants, hotels and vacation rentals, as well as guides, maps and articles about events, sports and activities. We provide bilingual customer support, information and sales seven days a week, 365 days a year. For more information, please call toll-free (US/CAN) 855-BAJA-411 or email us at info@baja.com.

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Rosarito Art Fest Promises a Colorful Day of Activities, Music, Food & Fun

Jack E. George — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 16:55:37 +0000

Rosarito Art Fest Promises a Colorful Day of Activities, Music, Food & Fun

By Jack E. George

If you are looking for a Memorial Day Weekend, full of action, with no entrance fee, you will want to make certain to schedule time to visit the fourth annual Rosarito Art Fest. Aside from oil, acrylic, and water color paintings you will be able to see other types of art media including sculptures, drawings, digital art, mixed media, jewelry, ceramics, glass, wood, photography, crafts, and folk art. In addition, the creations of area native Indians will have two booths offering their unique art work.

Handpainted wine boxes are among the folk art represented at ArtFest.

You will have the opportunity to experience the tastes of international cuisine available at the food court. There will also be plenty of entertainment, according to Committee Chairman Benito del Aguila, including blues, jazz, and opera which will all be presented live. Visitors can enjoy modern and contemporary dancing. The event will close with a special performance offered by the Baja California Orchestra. Aguila is extremely pleased that the art fest will be able to present this talented musical group.

Aguila said that there will be 150 tents offering art, food, beverages, and other interests that will surely offer something for everyone to enjoy. All 150 tents have been reserved so it is anticipated that the expected 18,000 people attending will enjoy at least several hours or even an entire day at the art fest. The tents will begin in front of the Rosarito Beach Hotel and extend down to the Festival Hotel. The event opens on Saturday, May 25 (11 a.m.-10:00 pm) and extends into Sunday, May 26 (11 am to 9 pm). Aside from local artists David Silvah, Bearis, and Esau Andrade – to name a few — other artists from as far away as Boston, MA, along with Los Angeles and San Diego will be presenting their works.

Esau Andrade’s work highlights Rosarito ArtFest.

Many renowned artists, as well as those beginning to create a name for themselves, will sell their items on display. There will also be artists who will create art right on location. All of the artists will be available to answer questions and discuss their works. Aguila is proud that the Rosarito Art Fest brought 5,000 people to the event during the first year. Last year, the number tripled to 15,000; he is excited that it will grow even larger this year. The biggest change is the growing number of exhibitions and visitors. This has resulted in the committee investing more money in the event. This is evident in the sponsorship of the Baja California Orchestra.

The Baja California Orchestra bases its music on our Mexican state. It is a chamber orchestra which has had as few as 17 to as many as 40 musicians. The orchestra offers musicians from many different areas. Although the performers are mostly from Latin America there are other members from the former Soviet Bloc as well as from the United States. The well-known orchestra has performed at the Alice Tully Hall, at Lincoln Center, in New York. They have also performed throughout Mexico and the U.S. They are considered to be one of the most prestigious classical ensembles.

According to Aguila, the Rosarito Art Fest was created as a way to promote Rosarito, local artists, and the culture. He said it is important to let people know about the talented artists living in our area as well as in other parts of Mexico. Aside from promoting the arts, the culture, and the community he said it is the committee’s goal to work toward making this art show the most important one in northern Mexico. Since the attendance has more than tripled in size, it is obviously well on its way to attaining the committee’s goal.

Want to explore Rosarito? There are many hotels and vacation rentals in the Rosarito area.

Baja.com is a comprehensive online source of first-hand travel information for the Baja California Peninsula, supported by a full-service tour operator staffed by Baja locals (our “Baja Travel Savants”). We offer Baja travelers expert advice about localrestaurants, hotels and vacation rentals, as well as guides, maps and articles about events, sports and activities. We provide bilingual customer support, information and sales seven days a week, 365 days a year. For more information, please call toll-free (US/CAN) 855-BAJA-411 or email us at info@baja.com.

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Rosarito’s New Convention Center Will Boost Local Economy

Jack E. George — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 15:50:49 +0000

Rosarito’s New Convention Center will boost local economy

by Jack E. George

The Baja California Center, Rosarito’s new convention center.

Former Rosarito mayor Hugo Torres had a twinkle in his eye and a smile on his face when he talked about the Baja California Center, Rosarito’s new convention center. This is the large, modernistic building you see as you head north on the toll road. Set on a low hill overlooking the ocean, the structure is designed to represent the terrain and rolling waves of the nearby Pacific that frame the facility. The governor of Baja California (Osuna Millán), politicians, and local dignitaries will attend the grand opening, and ribbon cutting ceremony on April 23. Although it has not been confirmed, there is talk that the president of Mexico, Enrique Peña Nieto, may make an appearance.

According to Torres, the new center “will offer a diversification for tourists. Not only will the tourists have the sun, the beach, swimming pools, and so forth – there will now be another reason to come to Baja.”

Famed Rosarito Beach is anticipating an economic surge with the opening of a new convention center.

He said that Tijuana hotel owners and businessmen requested such a center more than 30 years ago. The governor finally determined that it was going to happen. The state government then created the design and the blueprints. They kept in mind that they wanted a convention center that would be as diverse as the people it serves. The first event will be the ‘Narration Ceremony’ for the National Olympics. It is expected to attract 5,000 people. The former mayor and owner of the Rosarito Beach Hotel, Torres said that boxing matches, an international Amway convention and a variety of concerts are in the offing for the new facility.

Torres noted that, “The convention center will boost the local Rosarito economy, as well as bring the city to the forefront in Baja.”

The executive director of the center, Jair Lopez, says the Baja California Center will seat 10,000 people. It will offer an exhibition area of 100,000 sq ft, and will have an additional 20,000 sq ft of rooms, varying in size. The center will have parking for 754 cars, with an adjoining area that will allow for an overflow. However, except for concerts, boxing matches and similar events, most people are not likely to drive to the center. There will be buses and shuttle buses available to transport convention guests to and from the center. Buses will also be available to transport guests to San Diego and to airports.

Owner of the Rosarito Beach Hotel and former mayor of the city, Hugo Torres has been instrumental to the establishment of Rosarito’s new convention center.

According to Torres, “convention scouts” are expected to attend the opening of the center. The group of 55-60 scouts, mostly from Mexico with some from the United States, will officially visit the area on April 24-25 in order to visit numerous hotels in the region, as well as the convention center. According to Torres, the scouts will provide a strong impetus for future bookings given that they will accrue firsthand knowledge of the area and the services available. This information will be passed on to convention planners in Mexico and internationally.

The Baja California Center, once a dream, is becoming a reality. The building, costing approximately $600,000,000 pesos ($50 million), will offer new roads for entrance and exit. It will also provide state-of-the-art technology, and bring entertainment to Baja unlike any before available. And, perhaps most important, the Baja California Center will attract thousands and thousands of visitors to Rosarito, who will hopefully help the local economy flourish.

Rosarito is home to fine hotels and restaurants like Susanna’s, and is only 30 minutes south of the US border. Visit Rosarito’s new convention center and tour this historic city.

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Radio Personality/Renowned Chef Les Kincaid Brings Wines du Jour to Rosarito

Jack E. George — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 21:25:28 +0000

Radio Personality and Renowned Chef Les Kincaid Brings Wines du Jour to Rosarito and the Rosarito Beach Hotel.

by Jack George

World-renowned Chef Les Kincaid brought a new dimension to the Casa Blanca Restaurant at the Rosarito Beach Hotel, when a full-house attended for an evening offering Baja’s best food and wine and a discussion of Baja’s gastronomy. It began just when the clock reached 6:56 p.m., the speakers blaired “4-3-2-1 Test, 3-2-1- Test.” Kincaid prepared to broadcast his international radio show.

Renowned singer Maryam Malak.

Many of us had arrived at 6 p.m. We were fortunate we did, as we then had the opportunity to be entertained by singer Maryam Malak. Standing on a small stage, dressed in an elegant gown, there is no doubt she is one of the sensational singers in Baja. Her rich voice was flawless as she performed a variety of songs. She sang again after the radio program concluded, including a beautiful rendition of Time to Say Good-bye. The song, made popular by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman, was as good as it gets.

Seven o’clock arrived and Les Kincaid welcomed the guests. He then introduced the hotel’s Master Chef Eric Saenz. During the introduction Kincaid said, “When the chef walks into the kitchen everyone kind of bows. He is an outstanding chef.” Both men were welcomed by thunderous applause.

Les Kincaid highlighted Baja’s Adobe Guadalupe wines on his Wines du Jour program.

He continued his show, Wines Du Jour, when the first of three wines — all of which were from Adobe Guadalupe in the Valle de Guadalupe in Baja — was served. Uriel 2012 is a blend of Tempranillo, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc, Barbera, and Muscat grapes. This was the perfect pairing to go with the starter course…a scallop tournedo with olive sauce. accompanied by a slice of watermelon and a tangy goat cheese.

Just before the break and more thunderous applause, Kincaid said, “The people, the food, the wine – everything is good here in Baja.”

Soon the second wine was served: Gabriel 2010 is a blend of Merlot with Malbec, Cinsault and Cabernet Franc. Chef Saenz noted that, “It is well balanced and blended.” He paired this with a tongue taco and, although I was a bit skeptical about eating tongue, I must admit the overall taste — with the selection of onions, herbs, and a special sauce, not to mention a great wine pairing — provided for an intriguing bite.

Les Kincaid and Rosarito Beach Hotel Master Chef Eric Saenz.

The third wine, Kerubiel 2010, is a serious red (Syrah, Mourvedre, Grenache, Cinsault, Tempranillo, Merlot and Viognier). Kincaid suggested we swirl it in the wine glass 10 times, take the glass to our noses for sniffing, and then taste. He said the swirling would stir the ‘floral notes’ causing the fruitiness to come out. Guests were then served an interesting Ensenada fresh tuna sushi with Valle de Guadalupe cream cheese, avocado, and a mixture of Baja vegetables along with a fusion of Thai-Baja demi glace. The sushi offered an enjoyable taste of sweetness along with a blend of flavors.

As the radio show continued, Kincaid had to ask the audience to quiet down. There is no doubt we all were guilty of talking with our neighbors as we discussed the variety of food and wines. Our voices had raised to a ‘noisy’ level much like a classroom of youngsters enjoying a Halloween party. We all calmed down as the fourth course of chicken kabobs was served. — a serving I really enjoyed. The interesting taste derived from the coconut rice and Baja Thai reduction sauce. The final course offered grilled peaches stuffed with a mix of cheese and topped with slices of prime rib and grilled pork topped with chipotle marinade. This was definitely a crowd-pleaser.

Les Kincaid and Chef Saenz toast to Baja’s gastronomy at the Casa Blanca restaurant.

During the show, Kincaid, a Las Vegas resident said, “If you want to go away for a mini-vacation you need to check out Baja California. The media is not as bright as they claim to be. They tell you how dangerous it is to come across the border. That ain’t true at all when you come to Baja.”

Kincaid’s love of Baja is easily apparent – I would not be surprised if he one day becomes a member of our community.

Here’s more about the show, and about the wonder of Baja’s gastronomy, straight from Les Kincaid’s keyboard: ”Wow, what a great time we had taking Wines Du Jour on the road over the weekend! Great hospitality provided by Rosarito Beach Hotel owner Hugo Torres, outstanding cuisine from Master Chef Erick Saenz, and of course a special thanks to Luis Garcia from Adobe Guadalupe Vineyards for providing the wines for the show. A SOLD OUT crowd of 100+ enjoyed tasting five pairings instead of our usual three along with pre and after show entertainment by Maryam Malak. http://www.rosaritobeachhotel.com/“

Baja.com is a comprehensive online source of first-hand travel information for the Baja California Peninsula, supported by a full-service tour operator staffed by Baja locals (our “Baja Travel Savants”). We offer Baja travelers expert advice about localrestaurants, hotels and vacation rentals, as well as guides, maps and articles about events, sports and activities. We provide bilingual customer support, information and sales seven days a week, 365 days a year. For more information, please call toll-free (US/CAN) 855-BAJA-411 or email us at info@baja.com.

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Too Much Fun! The 6-hour El Coronel Hiking Experience in Rosarito

Carla White — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 17:39:05 +0000

Too Much Fun is exactly what you’ll have on the 6-hour El Coronel Hiking Experience

by Carla White

So, what’s so grape — whoops, great — about a 6-hour hike up a mini-mountain in Rosarito? That’s for you to find out. But be aware that the same people who bring you the Baja Grape Adventure, an ATV-amble through Ensenada’s hills and wine country, bring you the El Coronel Hiking Experience. It’s happening on Saturday, April 6, at 9 a.m. sharp, with the intrepid hikers gathering in front of the Grand Baja Resort in Puerto Nuevo (the famous lobster village).

Ready, set, go…to have Too Much Fun!

Too Much Fun Promotions, under the leadership of the ever-enthusiastic Armando Carrasco, puts together jaunts of all sorts and to please all different ages, tastes and physical abilities (heck, even I could do this hike!). In this case, although the 6-hour hike uphill and back sounds daunting, there is the opportunity to turn back at any point, and there is a follow-car to make the return even easier. Okay, so enough about the loopholes…now, why would you want to go on this Too Much Fun hike??

The El Coronel Hiking Experience offers unique perspectives on northerm Baja and its environs.

Most people who come to Rosarito visit because of the region’s white sand beaches, or to explore the city’s myriad curio shops and stalls, or to eat some of Baja’s most famous tacos. Few actually get off the beaten path to see Rosarito from a different perspective — from the top of a mountain, in fact! It’s a great way to experience Rosarito’s flora and meet some of Baja’s best bovines.

Up close and personal with Baja’s bovines

But El Coronel is more than just a mountain: It is a place rich in legend and history…and, some even say, ghosts. As lore would have it, around 1800, a colonel in the US army defected and fled to Baja with a large shipment of gold. He took refuge in a cave in the El Coronel area and there the gold remains hidden to this day. From time to time, adventurers still conduct forays into the hills to try and discover the cache of golden ore. The El Coronel Hiking Experience doesn’t encourage too much off-path exploration, but rather aims deliver its group to the summit of the peak where vistas of Coronado Island and the Pacific Ocean spread out before hikers in a vast panorama.

Panoramic vistas from El Coronel.

The hike includes waters and snacks and, even better, a chance to meet Armando Carrasco. His ebullient personality will surely convince you that not only is the 6-hour hike a brilliant idea, but that you should be going through your trunk to find those cool 1984 leather jeans in preparation for your victory ride on an ATV at the next Baja Grape Adventure. Anyway, that’s how I am getting ready for it. There are prices for tours and hikes, alone, or packages that include hotel rooms. Find out more about the April 6 El Coronel Hiking Experience at www.toomuchfun.com.mx/ or visit Too Much Fun Promotions on Facebook.

Want to explore Rosarito? There are many hotels and vacation rentals in the Rosarito area.

Rosarito is just 30 minutes south of the border…maybe it’s time to go there on a taste tour and a hike!

Baja.com is a comprehensive online source of first-hand travel information for the Baja California Peninsula, supported by a full-service tour operator staffed by Baja locals (our “Baja Travel Savants”). We offer Baja travelers expert advice about local restaurants, hotels and vacation rentals, as well as guides, maps and articles about events, sports and activities. We provide bilingual customer support, information and sales seven days a week, 365 days a year. For more information, please call toll-free (US/CAN) 855-BAJA-411 or email us at info@baja.com.

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Susanna’s: A Rosarito Restaurant for All Seasons and Reasons

Jack E. George — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 22:57:58 +0000

Susanna’s: A Rosarito Restaurant for All Seasons and Reasons

By Jack E. George

When I was leaving Susanna’s Restaurant in downtown Rosarito Beach, I told owner Susanne that it was the best meal I have had during the seven years I have lived in the area.

Susanne Stehr

When you leave the main street and enter the small plaza area, you are greeted by a huge waterfall. The walk down to Susanna’s is packed with an enjoyable mixture of artifacts, pictures, and other appealing items. Upon opening the door to Susanna’s Rosarito restaurant, you are greeted by a unique blending of furniture, architectural design, soft music, and a welcoming staff.

Most likely, you will be welcomed by owner herself, Susanne Stehr. She is as charming as the business she opened nine years ago.

She said, “Before I opened, I knew I wanted a restaurant that makes you feel comfortable, like you are in my home.” This has been accomplished. The unique kitchen is open for everyone to observe. Across from the kitchen is a full-service bar. There, you can order anything from appetizers to a full meal. You will also see a staircase. If you wander down the stairs, You’ll find that they lead to a wine cellar with a collection of fine wines.

Entering the main dining area, guests discover how “homey” it is, separated in creative ways to offer privacy and space. In the back of this room is a platform. Susanne says, “I used to sit in there at night and daydream about how I wanted everything styled. I decided to style a place to mimic my home with kitchen and ambiance. I had plenty of experience in entertaining and wanted to create a California rustic feel with not too many tables lending to more of a dining experience than just to eat and leave.”

There is no doubt that Susanne will stop by your table for a visit. Her genuine caring and dedication make you feel right at home. She explained that she learned a lot through her experiences, particularly the 12 years she worked in hotels, primary as a director of catering for resorts. She decided to open Susanna’s in Rosarito after having visited the area while being a partner in a furniture manufacturing shop. (This came about when she hired a local carpenter to build furniture and structural pieces for her home in Ventura County. The business grew and grew and soon an upholstery section was added. This led to some of her local designer friends in Los Angeles ordering custom pieces.)

So, when the plaza in Rosarito was built — where she is presently located — she was so impressed with the architectural design and atmosphere that she decided to open a small furniture store. One night a couple approached her and asked if her business was a restaurant. The couple was told it was not; however, the idea of opening a restaurant appealed to Susanne and led to the eventual opening of her popular restaurant.

A sublime asparagus salad at Susanna’s Rosarito restaurant.

Susanne explains that her satisfaction comes “from the way my clients feel during their time at Susanna’s and when they leave. We have been the chosen site for years for first dates, marriage proposals, anniversaries, birthdays, and so forth. My staff and I are so visible and in contact with our clients, we get rewarded every time when our clients leave with a more than satisfied experience.” These experiences have convinced her to launch a “Tour and Catered Events” business. She will be teaming with one of the premiere Tijuana food groups to focus on bringing back American tourists by offering unusual choices for different events. She is also in the process of manufacturing a line of her own tamales and specific pestos.

Everything about Susanna’s is appealing, but, when the food starts coming, it’s an unforgettable experience. All of the food at the restaurant is made from scratch. The appetizers were elegant in appearance and every bite tasted as delicious as it appeared. The tamale with chipotle cream cheese and jalapeños was great. Susanne’s pizza tasted even better than its magnificent appearance. Following this was a delicious spinach salad with a variety of tasty ingredients.

Pesto reigns supreme.

The main course consisted of a grilled Sonora pork chop. The blend of Chipotle chutney added a delightful flavor. The poached sole was the best fish I have ever eaten. Completing the main course was Susanna’s Pesto dish. The pasta was cooked to perfection and added a wonderful blend to the fish and pork chop. Never should I have indulged with any more food; however, the chocolate fudge cake caught my eye when I first saw the menu – topped with vanilla ice cream it really completed the meal, making the entire experience a 10+.

Luscious chocolate fudge cake

Where is Susanna’s: Pueblo Plaza on Benito Juarez, Rosarito. It is 1/2 block north of Señor Frog’s and 1/2 block south of restaurant El Nido. That is 3 blocks north of the Rosarito Beach Hotel.

What to expect: Susanna’s is a reasonably priced restaurant with an exceptional menu.

How to make a reservation: Call (661) 613-1187, visit Susanna’s on Facebook or go to their website at www.susannasinrosarito.com.

Is Susanna’s Near Rosarito Hotels: Yes! There are several hotels in Rosarito, but Susanna’s is within walking distance of the Rosarito Beach Hotel.

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Les Kincaid’s Wines du Jour Live Radio Broadcast Showcases Baja’s Gastronomy

Carla White — Fri, 01 Mar 2013 19:36:44 +0000

Les Kincaid’s Wines du Jour Live Radio Broadcast Showcases Baja’s Gastronomy

by Carla White

Les Kincaid’s Wines du Jour will focus on Baja’s Gastronomy

Les Kincaid is his name and gastronomy is his game…as it has been since he started his professional cooking career at the age of 14. Admittedly, his first job in the culinary industry was less than glamorous — he made burgers for Winn’s Drive Inn, south of San Francisco. And it took him a couple of weeks to get the hang of it. However, from this modest beginning, Les Kincaid has become a renowned gastronomist and today authors, teaches, and hosts a syndicated radio program called Wines du Jour that is carried on more than 450 radio stations, every cable company in the United States, and listened to throughout the world. On Thursday, March 28, he will broadcast live from the Rosarito Beach Hotel in Rosarito, Baja California, from 7-8 p.m. The public is invited to purchase tickets for the program and be part of the tasting event.

According to Les, his goals are to try and get everyone to expand his or her recipe repertoire, and to promote good wine and good food wherever and whenever he finds it. He has definitely found it in Baja California, which is why he decided to host the radio show along with a food and wine pairing. Typically, on the Wines du Jour program, an upscale restaurant is selected as the program venue and then a specific winery is invited to pair its wines with three of the restaurant’s featured menu items. For his upcoming show at the Rosarito Beach Hotel, he will be focusing on the renowned wines of the Valle de Guadalupe’s Adobe Guadalupe Vineyards & Inn and the cuisine of the hotel’s Master Chef Eric Saenz. Adobe Guadalupe’s wines from Baja’s wine country will accompany five dishes including seafood, beef, chicken and pork.

Les and Tammy Kincaid

Les has lived in Las Vegas, Nevada, since 1978 and firmly believes that it is the best city in the United States in which to reside; he is, however, also growing fond of Baja California, and notes that he was pretty surprised to learn that the region now boasts upwards of 80 wineries.

“The concept of ‘culinary’ has expanded,” he says in regard to the Baja region. ”I am so impressed with Hugo Torres, the Secretary of Tourism Juan Tintos, Jean Loup Bitterlin (El Rey Sol restaurant) and all of the people who are bringing awareness to this area!” Maybe it’s just the Las Vegas connection talking…but it is almost a sure bet that Wines du Jour and Les Kincaid will help bring even more attention to this booming culinary region and to Baja’s gastronomy.

How to attend Les Kincaid’s Wines du Jour broadcast and tastings: Cost for the five wine tastings and five food pairings is $15 per person. Seating is limited so early reservations are suggested. For reservations please contact Patricia Orozco at salesmanager@rosaritobeachhotel.com or 1-866 ROSARITO (from the U.S.) or 661-612 -1126.

How to find out more about Les Kincaid: Visit Les Kincaid’s website, https://leskincaid.com/

This is just a taste of spring events and Baja’s Gastronomy at the Rosarito Beach Hotel & Resort. Plus, those who want to turn an event into a mini-vacation can reserve oceanfront rooms from $79 per night on weekends.

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