Paul L.
Yelp
I have been to this restaurant numerous times, so my review is based on a totality of my experience, not just a one time visit that is so common on Yelp. Simply put, the flavors brought by the chef, the unique dishes served in a city known for traditional Mexican cooking, and the overall experience are the reason why I keep going back to Tijuana for an amazing meal.
The food is why I come. It's displays high quality ingredients, and the chef's ability to highlight the natural flavors with the appropriate sauces and spices is commendable. I recommend ordering any of the carpaccio dishes from the menu and you won't be disappointed, other than for the fact that you didn't order a second plate. If you are not a meat enthusiast, the zucchini carpaccio holds up to the rest, as I compared it to the beef carpaccio I love so much. It was light, yet flavorful, acting as though vegetables were the primary inspiration for thin sliced food preparations all along. The seafood dishes are fresh and diverse in their preparation. The octopus prepared table side in an iron skillet is not only delicious, but entertaining as the tequila flambé draws a lot of attention.
The tacos have been criticized in previous reviews, but please put it in context. La Querencia is a Mediterranean/Mexican style restaurant. If you want tacos, you should probably be in another restaurant that does nothing but tacos. What I have found is the tacos are very basic, but they are a platform to showcase the unique ingredients and fresh meats offered here. The tortillas are roasted on a wood fired grill, not fried. The meat options are as unique and plentiful as any place I have ever been, ranging from hibiscus flower to beef to pork to marlin. Personally I never miss an opportunity to order a beef cheek and suckling pig taco, and I am not disappointed by their tenderness and smooth flavors.
The service has always been top notch for in my experiences. I have dined here with my wife and children, my adult siblings, and friends. In each case, we were a large group consisting of some Spanish and some English speakers. We have asked for separate checks, had many questions, and many picky eaters over the course of our visits. In every case, the staff worked as a team to meet our needs, and never left us without. Furthermore, the same head waiter is always there, and each time we come, he personally greets me and welcomes me back. Our visits are months apart, so either we are a nightmare of a dinner party, or he values his guests and makes a point of remembering them. Either way, I appreciate the gesture.
As for the price and ambiance, I am again giving them five stars. This is not a high brow, fancy restaurant with white linen service. If you want that, go across the street to the larger and overpriced corporate owned Villa Saverios. This is a casual atmosphere, fine dining experience where you can come in wearing jeans or a suit and feel welcome. The food is the five star experience. Yes, this dinner will cost you more than the taco stands throughout Tijuana, but if you compare it to a similar restaurant in San Diego or Orange County, you are paying less than half the price for the same quality of meal. I am always amazed when I feed a family of five with multiple appetizers, main courses, salads, drinks and dessert for $120 or less. If that price point scares you, rest easy, there is a McDonalds down the street, you can stop there instead.
If I were to offer any criticisms, I have found that their website is not current and they do not respond to the messages sent inquiring about reservations. I prefer to use this option instead of making international calls from California, but it didn't work out. Also, I would love to see more daily or seasonal specials on their menu. The menu stays very consistent, and although excellent, there is room for growth with the talent that is found in the kitchen.
