Baja California has further solidified its reputation for exceptional quality and diverse gastronomy after its standout performance at the 34th annual “Restaurant Merit Awards” (Premio al Mérito Restaurantero). The event, organized by the National Chamber of the Restaurant and Seasoned Food Industry (Canirac), was held on August 29th at Claustro de Sor Juana, celebrating the very best of Mexico’s restaurant industry.
The ceremony honored the chefs, traditional cooks, sommeliers, mixologists, baristas, and restaurants that are elevating Mexican cuisine on a national stage.
A Boost for Baja California’s Gastronomic Tourism
Iván Nolasco, president of Canirac Baja California, emphasized that the awards recognize the passion and talent driving the industry. “Each honoree represents the best of us and reminds us why we chose this path: because we deeply believe in the transformative power of gastronomy,” he said.
Baja California claimed two significant awards: Mexica Fé (Mexicali) won the Award for Commitment to Sustainability and Romina Mendoza received the prestigious Sommelier of the Year award, underscoring the region’s world-class wine culture.
Mexica Fé: Award for Commitment to Sustainability
Located in the heart of Mexicali and led by Chef Ilean Padilla, Mexica Fé has become a destination for diners seeking a unique fusion of traditional and contemporary flavors. The restaurant offers a delicious menu of Mexican food with a distinct cachanilla twist, celebrating the authentic cuisine of the desert. A must-try is their emblematic “Tortita de Calnitas Coloradas,” packed with the unique flavors of China and Baja California.
Romina Mendoza: Sommelier of the Year
With over a decade of international experience in the winemaking sector, Romina Mendoza is a leading voice in Baja California’s viticulture scene. She is the only professional in the region to hold the prestigious WSET Diploma and is also a Certified Sommelier by the Court of Master Sommeliers and a WSET Educator.
Mendoza specializes in strategic consulting for wine brands, restaurants, and distributors, assisting with brand positioning, team training, and international market expansion. She has designed educational programs and led tastings, classes, and lectures across Mexico, the United States, France, and many other countries.
Beyond Awards: A Recognition of Excellence
The acclaim for Baja California extended beyond the wins, with strong showings in other categories. Salvia Blanca and Hotel Contemplación received nominations for both Young Chef of the Year and Best Restaurant in a Hotel.
Hotel Contemplación, located in Valle de Guadalupe, offers a first-class lodging experience; however, it stands out even more for its delicious gastronomy and its restaurant, Salvia Blanca, which has established itself as a top-tier culinary destination in Baja California.
Under the direction of chef Tonatiuh Anzures, the restaurant stands out for its focus on fresh products from the Ensenada region and its own organic vegetable patch. Its cuisine, based on fire and the country, fuses the flavors of Mexico with local ingredients like seafood, meats, and wines.
