Gone are the days when Tijuana was considered a crime-ridden city to be avoided at all costs. These days, Tijuana is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, thanks to its plethora of delicious restaurants, lively nightlife scene, and friendly people. So if you’re looking for an exciting place to visit that’s just a stone’s throw away from the US, Tijuana should definitely be at the top of your list!
The government-funded initiative has seen the growth of a hipster scene in the form of boutique shops, galleries, and swish cultural spaces. In recent years, the city has experienced an influx of new restaurants and bars, making it a hotspot for foodies from all over the country. The city of Mexico is gaining a reputation as one of the top gastro hubs in the nation. Tijuana’s nightlife scene has always been booming, with a variety of lively dance clubs to choose from. Recently, there has been an increase in the number of bars specializing in mezcal and tequila, as well as more refined drinking establishments and trendy hangouts. This makes for a nightlife scene that is even more diverse and exciting.
Caesar’s
The long wooden bar, with its art deco calligraphy, and the checkerboard floor are reminiscent of a bygone era. The amber wall lights glint in myriad mirrors, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. It’s hard to believe that this classic old Tijuana bar has barely changed since the 1920s when Italian owner Cesare Cardini invented the Caesar salad here. From the kitchen, salads are whisked to the linen-covered tables by smart-suited staff, just as they were in Cesare’s day. The attentive staff makes sure each salad is dressed to perfection before it’s served. This attention to detail ensures that every guest has a memorable dining experience. The bar has undergone a transformation in recent years, serving up classic and modern cocktails created by modish mixologists. Their lemon and tamarind margaritas are divine and not to be missed.
República Malta
The locals of Tijuana are very passionate about their craft beer, and this huge partially outdoor bar is always full of locals and Americans who come to try the best of the city’s microbrewery beers. These include Norte Insurgente, Azteca, Fauna, Agua Mala, and Border Psycho. With its fun atmosphere and a large variety of beers, it’s no wonder this bar is so popular! The DJs always keep the music upbeat and there’s a huge menu of botana snacks to go along with the drinks. No matter what you’re in the mood for, this bar is sure to have something that will hit the spot.
Los Diablitos
Located in the heart of a busy complex of bars, clubs, and food kiosks that surrounds the university, Los Diablitos is where Tijuana’s students come after lectures and remain for most of the night. It’s a popular spot for grabbing a quick bite or drink between classes, meeting up with friends after class, or spending a night out on the town. A great night out with friends can be easily achieved by getting a group together, buying some large margaritas served in plastic glasses, adding some inexpensive beer and botana bar snacks, and playing loud music. This recipe is sure to be a hit with everyone and will ensure you have a great night. There are dozens of other options nearby if you want to move on.
Cereus
Tijuana’s most popular tourist district, Colonia Federal, is situated just minutes away from the U.S.-Mexico border. You can almost hear the sound of passport stamps being stamped as you walk through this vibrant and historic neighborhood. This proximity provides visitors with a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant culture of Mexico while still being able to take advantage of the benefits of being in the United States. The Estación Federal complex used to be filled with tawdry bars, but it has gone upmarket in recent years. The complex now consists of bar restaurants, shared workspaces, and art-collective galleries. You can take a leisurely stroll through the complex and enjoy all that it has to offer. It’s no wonder that Cereus is one of the coolest bars at Estación – with its minimalist Guadalajara monochrome tiles and open-air sidewalk patio, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a craft cocktail or two. The Flor de Noche (bourbon, strawberry syrup, lemon juice, and bitters) is a particular favorite, but they also have a great selection of premium mezcals and tequilas.
Bar Central
The Central bar is a classic old-school Tijuana establishment, with tall leather lounge stools, a polished granite long bar, and waiters in white shirts, neckties, and black aprons. The bar has been serving up drinks and good times to locals and visitors for many years and shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. If you’re looking for a true taste of Tijuana, be sure to swing by the Central bar – you won’t be disappointed! The El Central cocktail, made with mezcal, Aperol, blond beer, watermelon, and lemon fruit juices, is a popular choice at this establishment throughout the day. Its daring flavor profile is what sets it apart from other drinks on the menu and has made it a favorite among guests. There is also the Martini del Mar, made with artisan Armonico Mexican gin, Dolin vermouth, lemon, and Japanese dashi. If you’re looking for something more substantial to eat, there are decent Spanish-style tapas bar snacks available as well as a seated restaurant.
Insurgentes Tap House
This small craft brewery and accompanying hipster botana tapas restaurant, run by the current star chef José Figueroa, is situated in a little plaza full of pubs and bars on the exciting Avenida Revolución in downtown Tijuana. There’s a massive range of beers to choose from at Insurgentes – everything from lagers to local specialties like Xocoveza chocolate stout. The bar attracts a real mix of people – beer lovers from San Diego, Tijuana students, and gastronomes looking to sample the excellent croquetas de quesabirri. It gets really busy on Saturday nights.
La Cantina de los Remedios
Looking for a classic Mexican cantina bar? Look no further than La Cantina! With its bottles lined up behind the long wooden bar, fading black-and-white photos on the walls, and serenading mariachis, La Cantina is the perfect place to get your Mexican fix. So next time you’re in the mood for some good food and good fun, be sure to head on over to La Cantina! This spot is a delightful throwback to the days of Zorro, with its loud music that never stops. Try a long, strong margarita for a real treat.
Casa Badóh
Situated just south of El Centenario park and only a five-minute walk from the US border, Casa Badóh is the perfect place to enjoy stunning views of the skyline whilst sipping on delicious margaritas. The club also provides the perfect opportunity to let loose and dance the night away – it’s guaranteed to keep you entertained until the early hours of the morning! The bar is so successful that when the music stops, it morphs into a breakfast-brunch eatery serving US and Mexican standards from donuts to huevos rancheros and very strong coffee.