Mexicali Baja California, Mexico Travel Guide
Mexican: Expect beef (especially carne asada), corn (used in tortillas), various chiles, beans, fresh vegetables (tomatoes, onions, cilantro), and lime. These ingredients form the backbone of many dishes.
Chinese-Mexican: Soy sauce, rice, noodles, various meats (chicken, beef, pork), and stir-fried vegetables are common. The fusion often involves larger portions and a slightly adapted taste profile to suit local tastes.
An early morning meal, often including eggs, chilaquiles, or lighter pastries.
The mid-afternoon main meal. Often a multi-course affair at home or a substantial meal at restaurants.
A late evening meal, usually lighter, often consisting of tacos, tortas, or small dishes.
Grilled beef, typically served on corn tortillas with salsa, guacamole, onion, and cilantro.
Found at numerous taco stands ('taquerías'). Mexicali is well-regarded for its "tacos de carne asada."
A unique blend of Chinese and Mexican flavors. Dishes like "chop suey," "chow mein," and various stir-fried meats are ubiquitous.
Specifically common in La Chinesca. Look for "arroz chino" (Chinese rice).
Machaca: Dried, shredded beef, often cooked with eggs, onions, and peppers. Birria: A tasty, slow-cooked stew, usually with goat or beef.
Machaca commonly for breakfast; Birria served with tortillas.
Non-alcoholic: Aguas Frescas (horchata, jamaica, tamarindo), Licuados (fruit smoothies), Mexican Coca-Cola. Alcoholic: Cerveza Artesanal (Craft Beer), Clamato, Tequila/Mezcal.
Churros (fried dough), Pan Dulce (sweet breads), Paletas (ice pops), Nieves (sorbet-like ice cream).
True fine places to eat are limited, but several upscale restaurants offer refined Mexican or international cuisine. These are usually in the Zona Dorada or within high-end hotels.
Abundant choices for mid-range dining, offering Mexican, Chinese, and foreign foods. This covers family-style restaurants, grill houses, and casual sit-down eateries.
Budget-friendly options are ubiquitous. Find "taquerías," "loncherías," "fondas," and street food stalls throughout the city for tasty and affordable meals. La Chinesca stands out for its excellent budget-friendly Chinese food.
Vegetarian options are available, especially in Mexican cuisine (quesadillas, bean tacos, vegetable fajitas). Vegan options need diligence, as lard is common in beans and chicken/beef broth in rice. Ask for 'sin carne' (without meat).
Many Chinese restaurants also prepare vegetable dishes.
Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free. Communicate clearly about allergies in Spanish ('Soy alérgico/an a...' - I am allergic to...). Cross-contamination is a risk.
Use translation apps and find out about dining places online beforehand.
Experience unique Chinese-Mexican fusion cuisine.
Visit local microbreweries.
Some guides offer street food tours.
Special dishes during holidays.
Halal or Kosher restaurants or items are very limited, if available at all. Adhering strictly towards these diets might be challenging.
Plan meals carefully and communicate needs clearly.
Use translation apps to interact dietary needs. Stick to simpler dishes where ingredients are easily identifiable to minimize risks.
Research restaurants online beforehand for menu details.
Street food stalls are central to Mexicali's dining. Find fresh, flavorful, and affordable options at every turn. Embrace the local experience.
Mexicali features a growing craft beer scene. Visit local breweries for unique brews and gastropub experiences.
Local markets often feature food stalls ("comedores") representing traditional home-style cooking.
Beyond Mexican and Chinese, find American fast food, Italian, Japanese (sushi), and other foreign choices.
The surrounding agricultural valleys produce many crops. While organized tourist visits to farms are not a main activity, fresh produce is locally available.
A must-try street food specialty: bacon-wrapped hot dogs with various toppings.
Look for vendors around popular evening spots.
Fresh seafood "cooked" in lime juice with onion, tomato, cilantro. A refreshing choice, especially in the heat.
Available at seafood restaurants and some casual eateries.
Mexicali's cuisine reflects its border identity and deep Chinese heritage, providing unique tastes.
Dining options span a wide range, fitting any budget from street food to refined restaurants.
The city features a growing the scene for craft beer with various local breweries for tasting experiences.
Savor the assorted tastes and experiences Mexicali has, from street food to distinct fusions.
