Damiana Restaurant — Restaurant in Baja California

An Unforgettable Culinary Gem in Valle de Guadalupe

I don’t usually write reviews, but every once in a while, you experience something so memorable, so genuinely exceptional, that it feels like a disservice not to share. Damiana is that kind of place.

This was our first trip to Mexican wine country, and as seasoned travelers who have eaten our way through Napa, Carmel, Los Olivos, and Paso Robles, we honestly didn’t know what to expect. What we found was one of the most thoughtfully executed, soul-satisfying meals we’ve had anywhere.

From the moment we sat under the romantic canopy of an oak tree, it was clear we were in for something special. The setting was serene and elegant, effortlessly charming without being overdone. The six course meal with wine pairings was nothing short of extraordinary, and we knew we were in good hands the second the amuse-bouche arrived: six mini tastings, each a bold yet balanced preview of the flavors to come.

Every course was a masterclass in restraint and complexity, with fish dishes that danced with citrus and spice, a decadent duck course, and a standout suckling pig main that was rustic and refined all at once. The menu changes with the seasons, and everything, except a few spices, is sourced within 20 to 30 minutes of the kitchen, which speaks volumes about the restaurant’s connection to the community.

The staff was warm, knowledgeable, and made the evening feel personal without ever being overbearing. The chef, who came out multiple times to introduce dishes, was as charming and gracious as the food was delicious. Honestly, we could have shared a bottle of wine and talked with him all night.

We ended the evening with a stunning espresso cocktail and four delicate dessert bites that somehow tied everything together in a perfect final note.

To top it all off, meals like this in the U.S. would easily cost three to four times as much. Damiana delivers an experience that rivals the finest restaurants anywhere, but with a sincerity and soul that’s rare to find.

We’ll be back. And next time, we’re...

Had an amazing meal yesterday in Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico at the newly Michelin starred restaurant- Damiana. Every dish that Chef Esteban Lluis presented us on his tasting menu was so perfectly thought out bringing out the flavors of local cuisine of the region. Take all that you love about Mexican cuisine, create emulsifications, sauces, foams, and oils with depth and flavor. Brown butter and black bean pure together - yes please. Ashes of smoked banana leaves, why not. Each dish must have had 5 to 10 components to it, but each with a purpose to balance the dish. Wine pairings and service was so friendly, we really felt at home here. To top it off, the perfect location outside under trees at a winery. Perfect anniversary meal. This is a destination restaurant, and somehow I have a feeling we will make it back here. If you are ever in the port of Ensenada, I highly recommend hiring a taxi to take you to Damiana at Viñedos de la Reina. About a 35 minute drive, we got there around noon, enjoyed a small wine tasting while taking in the view, had a 1pm lunch reservation, done by 3, back on board the ship in plenty of time. The perfect day and very...

We had been scheduled to dine Thursday at another fine restaurant but after reading about Damiana and their recent Michelin star, we changed our plans. What a great decision. The entire experience was one of the finest we have ever had, anywhere. The environment is warm, inviting, sophisticated, and yet comfortable. We loved every little detail from the setting, lighting, tables, cocktails, and the perfect playlist ( when we heard Lou Reed, we were all in! ) Of course, the entire tasting menu, was simply amazing. We knew it would be great but it was so much more than that! The paired wines- perfect. Each course and pairing was introduced without pretension. The food was unbelievable and we were amazed and smiling with every bite. What truly made the evening unforgettable for us was the staff. The professionalism, kindness, and knowledge was simply remarkable. Always anticipating every need without intrusion or distraction. Thank you for an amazing experience. We heartily recommend Damiana! Thank you, Chef,...