We don’t celebrate every birthday in a lavish fashion, but we do try to find some way, big or small, to make the day special. Sometimes we gather with friends and family, sometimes we work, sometimes we celebrate quietly, and sometimes we manage to getaway. This year we headed to Tijuana, Mexico for Mr. Vacay’s birthday. His one request, a taco tour. 

Tijuana (TJ) is the closest border town and it nearly matches San Diego’s population and size. Head further South and you’ll find Rosarito then Ensenada, both smaller and quieter than TJ. We’ve got a little beach-bungalow near Rosarito, and door-to-door it’s about 60 miles from home. We spent a couple of days in TJ taking a taco tour of the new food parks and doing a little shopping.

First stop, Gastro & Brew, which I nearly mistook for an auto mechanic. It was a creative use of space, and even had a small playground for children. The Mr. ordered tacos from Olas Altas (delicious!), and the kids next door at Wild West Asadero were persistent and eager, so we gave them a try too!  Taco count = 2.

Next stop, the Bunker. It was busy with young professionals, is set up near the higher end restaurants in town, and the food is quality! We tried Mi Lupita and La Carreta Taco Shop – ordering pulpo (octopus) tacos from both, a surf-and-turf and tuna ceviche from Carreta, and cochinita “pigbil” from Lupita. It was ALL good. Taco count = 7.

Next stop, Telefonica Gastro Park, to try La Carmelita and Don Ramen. The place was buzzing with a live cooking demonstration, and they had an ample beer garden in the back. Of all of our stops, this was my favorite – vegetarian dishes, creative flavors, and beautiful food presentation. Taco count = 9.

On our way out-of-town we took a quick spin through Mercado Hidalgo for fresh tortillas, cheese, and Dia de los Muertos decorations. Our final stop, La Vienesa Rio Pasteleria and Panaderia for a Tres Leches cake, enjoyed back at the bungalow with some Mexican hot cocoa!

“Birthdays are really special,” were the parting words from the mouth of one young and energetic waiter – I wonder if he knows just how right he is. They ARE special, because we’ve survived another year! We’ve overcome hurdles, worked hard, and watched the time absolutely FLY by. A birthday is an opportunity to reflect on the days, months, and years past. And to dream about what is yet to come. This year, Mr. Vacay was full, happy, and well celebrated!