Erizo Baja Fish House & Market in Tijuana

Man, people weren't kidding when they said that Tijuana has totally changed for the better. Forget about all of those nasty tequila-fueled college parties in Zona Centro. There is tons of focus on good local food now, complete with a Districto Gastronomico zone set up too. After guzzling down a number of local microbrews at the BCB Tasting Room, I made my way over to this place (Ave. Sonora 3808, 686-28-95), a seafood place set up by another famous Baja Med chef.

Yes, everything on the menu was local, including white wine from nearby Valle de Guadalupe, as well as local sea urchin, which I got to accompany a shot of vodka, ceviche juice, and a quail egg. It sounds odd but was one of the best things that I had on this trip, with that creamy yet briny sea urchin followed by an acidic and savory chaser. I could have easily gulped down more of those.

But I wanted to try more, like that green ceviche tostada (think: serrano, tomatillo, cilantro, and avocado), which was delicious when drizzled with some red chili oil. The staff also recommended a plate of raw mackerel in ponzu sauce, which hit the spot, as did a little cup of fish soup, complete with the requisite Mexican garnishes of chopped raw onions and cilantro. Note to self: next time stay at the Hyatt Place and be within stumbling distance of all of these delicious wonders. Tijuana is totally mindblowing, and I'm definitely coming back.