Baja California’s most storied port city has always been defined by the pull of the Pacific. While the cruise ships and the famous blowhole draw the daytime crowds, the true character of Ensenada reveals itself when the sun dips below the horizon. The local drinking culture here is not an afterthought—it is a vibrant ecosystem built on craft beer innovation, Baja Med cuisine, and a deep-rooted fishing heritage that dates back generations.
For the traveler, deciding where to drink in this sprawling coastal city can be overwhelming. You might be looking for a raucous cantina with a century of history, a modern tasting room pouring hazy IPAs, or a quiet wine bar featuring the best of the nearby Valle de Guadalupe. Ensenada offers all of this, often within a few blocks of each other, creating a bar-hopping experience that rivals much larger international cities.
The local beverage scene is anchored by a sense of place. Unlike border towns that rely on generic tourist traps, Ensenada’s best establishments pride themselves on sourcing local ingredients. From the fresh clams in a michelada to the grapes grown thirty minutes inland, what you taste here is intrinsically linked to the geography of the Baja peninsula. This authenticity is what turns first-time visitors into lifelong regulars.
Navigating the city requires an understanding of its distinct districts. The tourist zone near First Street is walkable and energetic, but the true hidden gems often sit slightly off the main drag or in the expanding Zona Centro. Venturing a few blocks away from the cruise ship terminal often yields quieter patios, more personalized service, and cocktails that are crafted with the same precision you would expect in San Diego or Los Angeles.
This guide serves as a curated roadmap for the discerning drinker. Whether you are a craft beer enthusiast, a mezcal aficionado, or simply someone looking for a cold lager with a view of the marina, there is a seat waiting for you. We have prioritized venues that offer consistency, atmosphere, and a genuine connection to the Ensenada lifestyle.
Below is a comprehensive list of the essential stops for your next night out in the city. Each location offers a distinct flavor of what makes drinking in Ensenada a unique experience.
Papas & Beer Ensenada
| Address | Primera 335, Zona Centro, 22800 Ensenada, B.C., Mexico |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | 646 200 5618 |
I would say this place is best to not get harassed by outside sellers. This place is definitely for night life, not for day time activities.
The place was nice and the service was good. We just had drinks so I’m not sure what the food situation is like. The drinks are expensive but they aren’t as expensive as other bars so I would say it’s quite average.
Another great stop for a tourist. Very fun atmosphere. I can see this place getting packed when a lot of cruise ships are at Port. Great local beer and our tacos were delicious. Beware the strong man with the whistle. You may have to do a shot of tequila and get shaken upside down 🙂
We had a pretty good time here. The guacamole was fantastic and loved watching the guy make it right in front of us‼️‼️ The wings were pretty tiny though.
Went here for one of the cruise ports but I loved everything from the music, drinks to the entertainment. The two guys on the stage flipping people was amazing. I plan on going back again and again in the near future it was so fun.
If you’re a 20 something college student then this might be your jam. If your anything forty or over or are looking for an authentic Mexican tequila bar the skip this place. We asked for top shelf tequila and they said Patron was the best they had. The margarita was way too sweet. It just wasn’t fun at all. We got one drink and then got the heck out out.
Hussong’s Cantina
| Address | Av. Ruiz 113, Zona Centro, 22800 Ensenada, B.C., Mexico |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 1:30 AM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 1:30 AM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 1:30 AM Friday: 11:00 AM – 1:30 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 1:30 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 1:30 AM |
| Phone | 646 178 3210 |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Hussong’s Cantina is a living piece of Baja history. You don’t come here for polish or trends — you come for atmosphere, stories soaked into the walls, and cold beers served exactly the way they should be.
This place feels authentic in the best sense: loud, lively, unpretentious, and timeless. Grab a beer, soak in the energy, and let the room do the talking. It’s the kind of bar where generations have passed through, and it shows — proudly.
Friendly service, great vibes, and an unmistakable sense of place. If you’re in Ensenada and want to experience something real, Hussong’s isn’t just a stop — it’s required.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Absolute Perfection – Best Margaritas in Town!
If you are looking for an incredible spot with phenomenal food, killer drinks, and a high-energy vibe, Hussong’s Cantina is it.
We came in after a long day and it was exactly what we needed. The star of the show is easily the Original Margarita—it’s perfectly balanced, fresh, and packs the right punch without being overly sugary. Pair that with their chips and salsa (which they keep coming, and it's addictive) and you’re already winning.
This is officially a staple in our rotation. Can’t wait to come back!
It's a must visit in Ensenada, it's the oldest cantina in Ensenada. First time I went there I was 18 years old. I'm 62 and still love to visit
Absolutely amazing to be able to visit the OG place that invented the margarita. Had a blast.
Hussong's is an old classic so if you are expecting something new and contemporary, your expectations are off. The atmosphere is perfect considering the peanut shell covered floors and old photos and definitely deserves a 5 star for atmosphere. There is usually a live band roaming the bar and the bartenders are Johnny on the spot. If you are looking for a more quaint atmosphere, good service and cold beer, I would definitely stop in for a cold one, or two; I always do.
Bar Andaluz
| Address | Riviera de Ensenada, Zona Centro, 22800 Ensenada, B.C., Mexico |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 AM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | 646 176 4310 |
Bar Andaluz in Ensenada – hands down one of the coolest spots I've ever sipped a cocktail at!
This place is legendary as the birthplace of the margarita (yes, THE margarita!). Back in 1948, bartender David Negrete supposedly whipped up the first one right here to honor a special guest, (Margarita King Plant) and the magic lives on.
But the real showstopper is the architecture and vibe. Tucked inside the historic Riviera del Pacífico (now the Cultural Center), the building screams old-world glamour from the 1920s-30s era – think stunning Spanish Colonial details, arched doorways, ornate tiles, high ceilings, and that timeless elegance that feels like stepping into a golden age Hollywood movie. The bar itself has this cozy, dimly lit charm with nods to its storied past, and sitting there sipping history is just surreal.
Friendly staff, great music, and an atmosphere that makes you want to linger for hours. If you're in Ensenada, this is an absolute must-visit – for the margaritas, the history, and the breathtaking architecture.
5/5 stars – ¡Salud to the birthplace of my favorite drink! 🍹🇲🇽✨
Is nice to visit,is a tourist trapped. We came for the margaritas and is very good but for $19 us dollars is not worth it. I asked for our to be pour it to a glass, was told NO. Wr were serve in a small plastic cup with mostly ICE. This is one time visit and not need to do again.
THIS PLACE INVENTED MARGARITAS
And yes they have the very best ones, you can taste the fresh lemon and the real fruit on their margaritas, this place been running for over 100 years
Lots of history in one place
Sígueme en redes sociales @CARNELICIOUSmx para ver el video de mi experiencia visitando este lugar
A cancelled excursion from our cruise 🚢 allowed
us to hunt down the “best margarita” in Ensenada
We were not disappointed!! Wonderful siting area where locals and tourists come for a picnic lunch and fabulous margaritas
Easy walk from the cruise port and beautiful historic building topped it to make it a perfect afternoon
It's were the first Margarita was made. If you're an Ensenada I recommend checking it out. Awesome experience, price really reasonable. The scenery is old school Mexican authentic 10 out of 10 recommend!
La Casita de Palo
| Address | Blvd. las Dunas 44, Playa Ensenada, 22880 Ensenada, B.C., Mexico |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 AM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 AM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 AM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 AM Friday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 AM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 AM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 AM |
| Phone | 646 176 5685 |
This is a bar but there is a small sea food cerreta ..delicious shrimp coctail and from the bar cold beer
Karaoke only on Wednesday!!!! Came just for the karaoke but it’s only on Wednesday!!! Nice little bar!! Solo hay karaoke Los miercoles!!!
What an awesome little spot in Ensenada. Great drinks, wonderful staff.
Really great seafood. The name speaks for itself, it is a wooden house turned to a restaurant during the day and kind of a bar at night. It is super casual. I recommend to go during the day if what you want is to eat, at night if what you want is to have a drink with a mixed crowd, young,old, friendly or not... basically people from all walks of life.
Ask for any special tostada, they are super good! And their cocktails are just delicious. It is a must have, definitely! By the way, don't worry if you have an allergy, I am allergic to mollusks, and it is common for restaurants to use the same cutting table or utensils for all their seafood, therefore you risk having a reaction....not here, I told the nice man preparing everything and he took care and gave me a great cocktail with no allergic reaction!
Raunchy old-school dive bar. Definitely priced right for food an beer. I will ALWAYS go here. You want that old-school feeling of Mexico? This is the place! See it once tell it for-ever! Oh, the music is AWESOME.
Pueblo Antiguo
| Address | Virgilio Uribe 10, Zona Centro, 22800 Ensenada, B.C., Mexico |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 646 204 7096 |
This is very scammy. Everybody from one bus to the next to the flea market vendors all have there hand in each others pockets. This was not safe. They pretend to be giving solid advice and warnings to then just push you towards there friends at the market. Not interested in ever using them again.
The tacos were really good. Nice size portion, fresh ingredients, and prepared quickly.
It's a courtyard and open air market. The carnival Cruise shuttle bus dropped off the passengers that went to shore and they picked us up. There's souvenirs. My friend and I ate Tacos and, tortilla chips, salsa and Guacamole
This is our go to spot. We loving hanging out here. Service has always been amazing. Prices of drinks are good price.
Definitely recommend
We came from the cruise ship, waiting for our tour guide.. service was prompt and chips salsa and the drinks were good
El Patio Ens - Restaurante Bar
| Address | Av Adolfo López Mateos 1088, Zona Centro, 22800 Ensenada, B.C., Mexico |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:30 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 7:30 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 7:30 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 7:30 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 7:30 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | 646 178 3866 |
I like these place. It was the middle of the main street. We sit outside. The waiters were very nice. Food was delicious and very much recommend this place.
Super friendly staff. Cute and clean restaurant. Ate outside. Inside had a really nice bar. Very flexible with changes to menu to be vegetarian friendly. Salad with berries was amazing! The “eggplant lasagna” was ok. Too cheesy. (Not pictured)
Good choice for dinner.
I hope our server Franko sees this review. Because of him we ate here more than once on our vacation. Thank you Franko for making us feel right at home with such great service, attention to detail, recommendations, and personal stories. As for the food, it was so delicious! I especially enjoyed the grilled shrimp (ordered it twice), the chicken was juicy and cooked perfectly, and the steak had so much flavor in every bite. The restaurant is beautiful inside, but we opted to sit outside and enjoy the weather and atmosphere. We highly recommend this restaurant! There’s so many items we want to come back and savor. Thank you Franko and everyone at El Patio!
Headline: Dangerous drink mistake and hypocritical staff - Warning for cruise travelers!I am sharing this to warn other travelers, especially fellow cruise passengers. I was a passenger on the Carnival Luminosa sailing out of San Francisco. During our port stop, I visited this restaurant in downtown and experienced a dangerous situation.We ordered NON-ALCOHOLIC drinks, but the bartender made a huge mistake and served us drinks WITH ALCOHOL. Because I didn't know, I drank it and suffered from sudden vomiting and lethargy. If someone were severely allergic to alcohol, this could have been fatal.After our tour leader negotiated with the restaurant, the manager did agree to pay for our taxi fare, which was the bare minimum they should do for their dangerous mistake. However, what broke my heart was the staff's hypocrisy. As my two friends were physically supporting me to the taxi, the staff behind our backs scoffed, "Oh she can walk, she doesn't need a taxi."I am not sharing this for a refund or to cause trouble, and I want to be clear that they paid for the ride. But money cannot buy back basic respect. The lack of empathy and the shocking attitude of the staff during a medical emergency is unacceptable. Please be cautious.
This is one of our favorite breakfast spots right there on the main tourist boulevard. The staff is always friendly. We like to dine alfresco, even though you get the shade in the morning it’s still nice and We really enjoy the food. My kids always ordered the crêpes—they rave about. We usually order the chiliQuiles, or some type of omelette. Also they offer a small chicharrón soup to start as an appetizer.
Casa Verde Brewpub
| Address | C. Tercera 727, Zona Centro, 22800 Ensenada, B.C., Mexico |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 2:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 12:00 – 11:30 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 11:30 PM Friday: 12:00 – 11:30 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 11:30 PM Sunday: 12:30 – 11:30 PM |
| Phone | — |
Really laid back brewpub that offers awesome craft beers from two different local breweries. I came here twice during my weekend in Ensenada and tried at least six beers, all of them very good, with the red ale and red IPA being standouts.
Plenty of seating available; also they have their own food stalls, which I didn’t try but a friendly local told me the food is awesome. I’ll try next time
They had a good stout and I would have gone back but they got mosquito bites when I was outside because it was too warm inside. Very good bartender. She was friendly and helpful. It's a colourful place and they have good beer and they have a parking lot which is a real Plus
Recommended by other bartenders for its beers and outdoor patios. Nice house beers selection under two brewery names. Small bar but numerous tables inside and outside. Open brewery next to seating, TV, and mobile ping-pong table. Onsite food vendors, including one with a wood-fired smoker. Stage area. No traffic noise. Conversation-level “classic rock” tunes. Customers appeared to be both locals and visitors (Spanish and English heard).
Very nice Pale Ale, malty plus great balance of Simco and Mosaic hops.
Very friendly staff offering tastes first. Competitive prices.
I enjoyed the laid back setting. Reminded me of visiting someone’s house in a rural area with a large backyard. Suitable to hang out and converse at length with a friend. I just went to check out the place, having it recommended to me, for a future visit. I enjoyed the talks with the staff, and one of the beers of their large variety of them
Great local place that isn’t touristy. Two breweries with plenty of selections. A bilingual and friendly staff. I didn’t look at food options but there are VERY local places nearby with good authentic food.
Pub El Búnker
| Address | Blvd. Zertuche 283, Fracc. Industrial, Chapultepec, 22785 Ensenada, B.C., Mexico |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:30 PM – 2:00 AM Tuesday: 12:30 PM – 2:00 AM Wednesday: 12:30 PM – 2:00 AM Thursday: 12:30 PM – 2:00 AM Friday: 12:30 PM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 12:30 PM – 2:00 AM Sunday: 12:30 PM – 2:00 AM |
| Phone | 646 154 8042 |
The bouncers Re to aggressive for no reason.....will never attend or recommend...
Fun chill place with pool, live music, and great drinks!
It was nice had lots of fun we sanged it was so much fun thanks to the every one that works there
Good place to grab a quick bite and also have a good drink while watching your favorite team.
Great ambiance for those that want to go where everybody knows your name..
Black Dog Rock & Metal Bar
| Address | Av. Ruiz 138, Zona Centro, 22800 Ensenada, B.C., Mexico |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM Tuesday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM Thursday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM Friday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM Sunday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM |
| Phone | — |
Amazing staff behind the bar.
Best in to town
So metal!!!
The food is really good. Those nachos and wings are delicious, and at an excellent price. I recommend it.
I recommend it.
Try the house beers!!! Excellent service! The music is great and the snacks are delicious. The burritos and ceviche are highly recommended.
La Casa Country
| Address | Blvrd Estancia 143, Carlos Pacheco 4, 22890 Ensenada, B.C., Mexico |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 1:00 PM – 1:00 AM Tuesday: 1:00 PM – 1:00 AM Wednesday: 1:00 PM – 1:00 AM Thursday: 1:00 PM – 1:00 AM Friday: 1:00 PM – 3:00 AM Saturday: 1:00 PM – 3:00 AM Sunday: 1:00 PM – 1:00 AM |
| Phone | — |
Usually no food. Karoakr Friday 7-10. Good sound system. if it's not in the book the DJ will drag your song in from YouTube into his system ( I'll be back with your tip -lo siento!) There's a good banda after karaoke also. Casa Country also has a pool table! I'm from Las Vegas - living in Ensenada since March 2022 FB#safeinbaja
More of a bar that serves food. It was around 3pm so only a few people I could get in with my wheelchair because a lot of other places we wanted to stop at had stairs so I couldn't get in.
The food was good I had three Dorado (fried) tacos with rice and beans $8.50 it was good.
The place is large with a dance floor and a band stage so I take it it's hopping at night also a good size patio area for overflow.
Good place to lisent to live music and dance but it can get a bit crowed at times and it my be frustrating for some people , beach is just a few feet from there. the owner David from time to tome will play her Country music.
After doing some repairs and some cosmetic work to the inside, this place is now better than ever. The food that they do is great, and they are having a lot of specials.
Nice laid back vibe. Good local place for reasonable prices & good drinks.
EL PUNTO BAR
| Address | Av. Dr Pedro Loyola 188, Acapulco, 22890 Ensenada, B.C., Mexico |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 AM Friday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 AM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 AM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 AM |
| Phone | — |
I don't go to bars. But apparently I did. My buddy is in town and we wanted to find something truly local. This was the spot. I learned how to play dice and danced to live music. It was rad. The prices, and atmosphere were dope, but, I think you need to speak Spanish in order to get by. Not sure, but the staff are nonetheless friendly
Good country music and atmousphere
Its cool
Great place to dance, fantastic atmosphere
Recommended
Great atmosphere, every time I go there's someone to dance with
Planta Baja Restaurant - Sky Bar
| Address | Colinas Riverside 1118, Colonia El Sauzal, 22760 El Sauzal, B.C., Mexico |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | 646 174 7360 |
We came here right around sunset for an appetizer and glass of wine before our dinner reservation. It was a Friday night but not very busy either inside out or on the patio where we sat. Even though the clouds made for a crummy sunset, the sea view was awesome and the glass of red we enjoyed with the charcuterie board made for a lovely combo. Would love to come back and see more people to enhance the atmosphere and try some food. Regardless, would recommend for anyone wanting a seaside view and a glass of wine with excellent service. Thank you!
This place is phenomenal. We ordered the mushroom risotto, the tortilla soup and the fresh pasta. Everything was wonderful, and this spot also has full ocean views. Service was amazing, flavors well developed, SO MANY FANTASTIC vegetarian options and amazing wines. People speak English which makes it easier to communicate. We will be back!
I'd give this place 4.5 out of 5 stars. We were here on an afternoon couples date. We arrived just after opening so it was still pretty quiet.
The view is romantic and breathtaking; the setting and vibe are perfect for a date. The staff were really kind and attentive, and we really appreciated that they were dog-friendly (leashed of course) and they brought him a water bowl.
We had drinks, an appetizer and entrees. I want to be clear the food was definitely good, but we agreed we felt each of the dishes was missing....something, but we couldn't put our finger on what it was. The guys ordered steaks and they did say the cuts that day were on the fattier side. I remember thinking my sangria wasn't as sweet as anticipated. I don't need things overly sweet but maybe my American tastebuds are conditioned to require ridiculous amounts of sugar.
We still had a wonderful time and would definitely go back again, we'd like to try more of the dishes to see if maybe they were having a slightly off-day or maybe find their specialty dishes.
Atmosphere is beautiful. Food is okay. Service and management was very poor. Waited an insane amount of time for food, well over an hour. Took 30 minutes for a single glass of wine and another 20 for a glass of water. Never brought a box when requested. Took so long we left without the third plate. The place wasn't even busy. And when this was brought to their attention, they blamed us for their poor service, claiming we took too long to order so they put our order in last. Pretentious,and lack luster. Not worth the time or the money.
We had a awesome experience and really enjoyed the scenery. The food was so delicious and full of flavors. The staff was always attentive and made us feel like royalty. I highly recommend this restaurant for any special occasion.
Capitan Cahuama Ensenada
| Address | Blvd. Costero 510, entre GUAYMAS Y PLINTA, Acapulco, 22890 Ensenada, B.C., Mexico |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 11:30 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 11:30 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 11:30 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 11:30 PM Friday: 12:00 – 11:30 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 11:30 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 11:30 PM |
| Phone | 646 194 4119 |
I’m a local, and this is such a great spot. It’s right in front of the beach, and you can catch the sunset from there. Caguamas are well-priced compared to other places, and the atmosphere is great—there’s usually live music. You can sit indoors or outdoors. The food is really good, and I don’t think the prices are high at all—great value for what you get. They also have happy hour deals, which is a nice bonus
Chicken burger tasted weird not good but again always try to stick to what sells the most. Got tostada sirena pretty good. The view is everything you can feel the breeze from the beach.
Great place to come and have a drink. The mixed drinks and Cahuamas selection are really good. We came on a Wednesday and they had live music.
By bestie & I stopped in at 6 pm on a saturday & took 2 seats at the bar.
Place was crowded but lively & the sun was just setting.
Pavel treated us like we were the only girls there 💗
We each had 2 tasty margaritas & split guacamole.
I had 3 marlin tacos with THE best sauces & homemade corn tortillas
& she got a large veggie pizza,
All for 700 peso ($35) !
It was so fresh tasting & delicious.
Thank you for such a memorable experience.
We love places that feel so special
The seafood we had today has flavor and was fresh. Hands down delicious 😋
Cervecería Transpeninsular
| Address | Carr. Tijuana-Ensenada Supermanzana 107+240, La Playita, 22870 Ensenada, B.C., Mexico |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | 646 175 2111 |
Stopped by Cerveceria Transpeninsular and it didn’t disappoint. The fish tacos were legit—fresh, well-seasoned, and not overcomplicated. Exactly how they should be. Paired them with a couple of their craft beers, and that’s where this place really stands out.
We were looking for a brewery open while our cruise ship was in port. Found this one as one of few open before 3 pm. Took DiDi ride share for a cheap ride there and felt at home walking in. Beautiful views from back patio and beers and food were great! The messy fries were our favorite. I got a flight and decided on a pint of the hazy.
Very nice brewery! Outdoor area has a nice view. They have plenty of beer 🍺 options. I had the Dorado Hell 4.4 and my husband the Pilsner. They were nice and cold.
I loved stopping here! The location is beautiful with a stunning patio with ocean views. The tacos were lovely. I like the blonde ale, the Czech Pilsner, and the gose. There’s a cute brewery cat. They have a playground with swings and a slide for kids. The service was exceptional. They treated my friend to a birthday shot. 3 cheers to this wonderful Ensenada gem.
Really nice swanky place, good comfort food and respectable brews! There were four of us and we had an appetizer to share and each a meal. The 3 adults had beers too. I had the blonde and also a coffee flavored beer. Both were good! I liked the atmosphere and being able to see the brewing tanks. We sat upstairs and the view inside and out was great. The staff was nice too but not so attentive. That would be great if you just want to hang out too but we didn't. The menu was in Spanish and English. My only real issue was the large dog running around the tank area and barking so loudly which echoed. A restaurant bar is no place for a dog especially a noisy one; loose a star and a repeat customer. There are many other places in the area.
Monalisa Rooftop
| Address | Primera 438, Zona Centro, 22800 Ensenada, B.C., Mexico |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
This place is a total hidden gem! Away from all the loud noisey bars. This rooftop is a really nice quaint place with really good music! We loved the Paloma drink and the servers were all very nice
Great Rooftop, amazing drinks (order the carajillo), yummy food, and the staff is very friendly!
Lots of fun, great beer selection and pizzas
One of the nicest place in the surrounding area!
The place is nice, but it needs attention to detail.
We arrived around midnight on Friday. We were greeted very kindly and shown to the high-top tables.
Once seated, we waited a long time to be served; there seemed to be no communication between the staff (waiters). We ordered beers, chips, and a mojito; the beers arrived quickly, the mojito took a while, and the chips arrived up to 30 minutes later.
The mojito was bad. The presentation was very nice, but it tasted like mineral water and artificial lemon juice.
The chips seemed boiled instead of baked or fried, and the cheese tasted like anything but cheese.
After the beer, I ordered mineral water. They offered me the "Agua de Piedra" brand, which is very good, but it never arrived... even though I reminded two different waiters that they needed to bring the water. In the end, the waitress apologized because she realized they never brought it, and I appreciate the gesture.
As for the atmosphere, the music was extremely loud; they needed to properly equalize the speakers because the bass was vibrating like a blown speaker. You had to shout to have a conversation, and if you wanted to dance, the space between chairs at different tables was very small.
Essential Tips for Enjoying Ensenada’s Bar Scene
To make the most of your evening out, it helps to understand the local rhythm and customs. Ensenada is a city that rewards spontaneity, but a little preparation regarding logistics, currency, and timing will ensure you spend less time waiting and more time enjoying your drinks. The following advice is drawn from the habits of local regulars and hospitality veterans who know how to navigate the city efficiently.
1. Bring Cash and Small Bills
While many modern breweries and upscale cocktail bars in Ensenada accept credit cards, the smaller cantinas and taco stands often remain cash-only. ATMs can be scarce or run out of money late on a weekend night. Carry a mix of pesos for bars and US dollars as a backup, and avoid relying on your phone’s digital wallet.
2. Start Late, But Not Too Late
The local scene usually awakens after 9:00 PM, especially on weekends. Arriving too early might mean sitting in a half-empty room. However, arriving after midnight on a Saturday can mean fighting for space. Aim to start your crawl around 8:30 PM to secure good seats at popular craft beer taprooms before the rush.
3. Embrace the "Botana" Culture
Many traditional cantinas in Ensenada still offer complimentary snacks (botanas) with your drinks. This can range from simple chips and salsa to hearty ceviche or soups depending on the house. Don’t fill up on dinner before you go; let the free food accompany your first few rounds to save money and eat like a local.
4. Walk or Use Local Taxis
The main bar districts are highly walkable, but the city blocks are long and poorly lit in some areas. If you are venturing more than a few blocks from the main strip at night, hail a local taxi. Negotiate the fare before getting in, as meters are rarely used, and a ride within the city center should usually cost only a few dollars.
5. Pace Yourself with the Altitude of the Valley
Ensenada is the gateway to Valle de Guadalupe, meaning the wine lists are exceptional and the pours are generous. The local craft beers also tend to have a higher ABV than standard lagers. Drink a glass of water between rounds and prioritize the local seafood dishes to keep your energy up for a long night.
The beauty of Ensenada lies in its unpretentious attitude. You can walk from a high-end wine bar to a gritty dive bar in a matter of minutes, and you will be welcomed in both as long as you respect the space and the people in it. Don’t be afraid to ask the bartender what they are drinking personally—often, the best thing on the menu is something that hasn’t been printed yet.
As the night winds down, the smell of grilled fish tacos will guide you home. Ensenada’s bar scene is not just about the liquid in the glass; it is about the conversation, the ocean air, and the shared history of a town that has always known how to host a good time. Drink responsibly, tip well, and you will find that this coastal gem keeps calling you back.
