Sweet Magnolia

Baja's Best BitesAlthough it is somewhat masked by the large dining canopy in front of Casa Magnolia, the main house is nearly 100 years old, and was relocated from its original location on Avenida Gastelum a few years ago just prior to the restaurant’s opening.  Originally prefabricated and assembled north of the border, it was moved to Ensenada in the early 1920’s by Juan Abacumoff.  In order to avoid demolition, it was then relocated to its present location atop a bluff that overlooks the ocean on Blvd. Costero in early 2013.

In addition to the ongoing evolution of Casa Magnolia’s physical plant, their superior cuisine and attentive service has set a new standard for dining establishments in their immediate area.  Located right across the street from the beach and malecon, the magnificent view of the coastal waters and spectacular sunsets are interspersed with excellent opportunities for people-watching during the warmer months of the year.  They also offer live entertainment in the evenings on a regular basis.

Nonetheless, it is the consistent quality of their food, its presentation and the friendly detailed service that is provided by their staff that sets them apart.  The rosemary chicken is tender and aromatic, their seafood is superb; especially their pozole de mariscos and the tempting array of shrimp dishes.  Not to be forgotten, carnivores will also be pleased by the tender cuts of premium beef that are served up at Casa Magnolia.

And if that were not enough, they also offer first class breakfast selections that include everything from traditional machaca to fluffy omelets.  Each weekend is grandly topped off by a sumptuous Sunday brunch buffet, which is available from 8 AM to 1 PM.

The aim of Casa Magnolia is to bring you back as a regular customer, and this goal is reflected in virtually every aspect of their operation.  Their warm, friendly service and consistently well executed plating and presentation sets them aside from many other local eateries.  And their dedication to seeking out only the finest ingredients that are available in any given season is apparent as soon as you take the first bite of your meal.

One thing is certain; successfully owning and operating a quality dining establishment is an incredible challenge that requires vision, determination, hard work and a high level of expertise in hospitality and staff management, not to mention top flight food service.  To the delight of their growing legion of returning diners, Casa Magnolia has started off on the right foot by covering all of these areas masterfully.

Blvd. Costero Frente A Explanada Playa Hermosa, Ensenada (646) 176 6592

About Tom Gatch

For well over a decade, ‘Hooked on Baja’ author, Tom Gatch, has built a solid reputation as one of the foremost published writers and columnists focusing on travel, real estate, recreational and culinary topics in Baja and southern California.

Check Also

Potato Salad and the Greek Isles

Potato salad has been in my culinary repertoire for about fifty years and, fortunately, most …