Fauna — Restaurant in Baja California

I hope this is a learning experience to everyone. We went to visit Fauna Restaurant (our 5th time). We really gave a thought since the pandemic is high, but we wanted to make an special occasion an decided to make a trip to the restaurant. We are a family of 4 with 2 small children (1 year old and 4 year old). We knew there wasn’t going to be any food for the children so we decided to take some tacos so the children could eat. Our reservation was the first at 1:00 PM, and during the day the restaurant wasn’t full since they had to respect social distancing. There was just 1 table with 2 people.

Here is the customer experience:

As soon as we sat we decided to give the children so food because they were uneasy so we could calm them down. A waiter approached us and told us that it was the restaurant policy that there couldn’t be any food from outside. We get the point, and we are not trying to be a victim, but we asked if they could make an exception and that it wouldn’t take long for them to finish eat a taco. He said the manager couldn’t allow food from outside.

So here is the problem:

1. The first experience we get is an uncomfortable request. Because then it would require us to leave the restaurant go to our car feed our children and then come back.

2. So we did what any good parent would do, we prioritize our children’s need and decided to go out to our car feed the children then come back. It felt shameful, which is one of the worst feeling a business can give a customer.

So you might, say: “yea it is the restaurant policy, sorry, just deal with it”. I understand that, but I think one little action can cause an effect and if you are a business owner you probably understand. So here is how they could’ve had enhanced the customer experience and solved the problem:

1. If a food bag is visually uncomfortable for your concept, you could’ve offered a plate or go even further and ask if they could help warming the food or anything, and quietly “clean” the to go bag.

2. There was no patrons in the restaurant, so it was very unnecessary to make the family leave the restaurant then have them come back. Was 10 minutes really going to affect your business?

So here is my point: instead of solving the customer’s problem, they not only didn’t give a solution, but shamed the customer by having them walk back to the car.

Here are my theories:

1. Either they are so arrogant which they don’t care about customers.
2. The management is not well trained to solve the client’s problem.

I really hope is the second. If I was the restaurant owner I would be so thankful that customers took their time to drive out, and during this pandemic where many restaurants are struggling, and that are willing to spend good money. I simply cannot think of why would somebody solve such a simple problem.

The food is always amazing and the location is beautiful. But the truth is, any restaurant can have amazing food and location, but what makes a difference is their capacity to give memorable experience to the clients. For that little action, now they will have a bad review and maybe some others that read this will avoid. Was it worth at the end?

I hope this is a learning experience. Chef David, you have an amazing concept here, let’s elevate even more and show that your restaurant deserves to be #1 not only because of the food but because the excellent of everyone who...

After spending a few days in the valle, we were so excited to visit Fauna since we had heard so much about it. We made a reservation for 6pm and after getting a bit lost, arrived by 6:10pm. We were seated but then ignored for half an hour, despite us politely talking to the host and trying to get the attention of the wait staff. I figured they must have thought we were dining with the couple next to us (tables are communal), so we weren't too bothered by it. We ordered two tasting menus and some drinks. What happened over the next four hours was the wildest restaurant experience I've had.

First, the food was absolutely fantastic. Seafood is their specialty and it was one of the best I've had in my life. From a culinary perspective, they've clearly put in so much care for their tasting menu. The service, on the other hand, was borderline insulting. The meal was eight courses, and it seemed they couldn't keep track of what we've had yet. There were other parties in our table that were also doing the tasting menu and they kept getting everyone's dishes mixed up, they couldn't figure out how to do it simultaneously. It got so bad that they spaced out our dishes so that the whole table was being served the same course at the same time. To get a glass of wine, we had to order it three times and wait at least half an hour. Each dish was so spaced out that two hours into it we were only halfway. I couldn't believe it but it took four hours for us to get through the tasting menu and get the check. To make matters worse, they had grossly overcharged us on the bill, adding an expensive mezcal and a bottle of wine.

I would have been okay with a four hour tasting menu if it were intentional, but having someone ask which course we were on after waiting for 35 minutes for our next course was appalling, especially since it's not a cheap experience.

If you have extreme patience, lots of time and don't get easily offended (even when the staff laughs at you in your face!), then it's worth a visit. The kitchen staff really know what they're doing, but it's such a shame the front of house staff were able to sour our experience.

Tl;Dr: Great food, horrible service. Our tasting menu lasted four hours and we had to wait up to 40 minutes...

A Culinary Journey to Remember at Fauna

Dining at Fauna was an unforgettable experience that transcends the traditional farm-to-table concept and is on par with a Michelin star restaurant. This incredible establishment not only promises a connection to the earth and its bounty but delivers it with unparalleled grace and creativity. The restaurant itself, with its warm and inviting atmosphere, sets the stage for a culinary journey that is both intimate and profound.

Opting for the tasting menu, I embarked on a voyage of flavors, textures, and aromas that was nothing short of divine. Each dish was a testament to the chef's artistry and commitment to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The care and attention to detail in the presentation were matched only by the exquisite flavors that danced on the palate. From the delicate starter to the sumptuous dessert, every course was a celebration of the freshest ingredients, transformed into extraordinary creations that delighted and surprised.

What set Fauna apart was not just the exceptional quality of the food but the story behind each dish. The menu was a narrative of the land, a homage to the farmers and producers who are the true heroes behind the scenes. This connection to the source added a layer of depth and appreciation to the dining experience, making each bite more meaningful.

The service at Fauna was impeccable, contributing significantly to the evening's enjoyment. The staff was knowledgeable, passionate about their work, and eager to share the stories behind the menu. Their recommendations were thoughtful, and their attention to detail ensured a seamless dining experience.

Fauna is more than a restaurant; it's a destination for those seeking to celebrate the beauty of nature through the culinary arts. The tasting menu was not merely a meal but an exploration of the best that the earth has to offer, crafted with respect, imagination, and flair. For anyone looking to indulge in a spectacular menu that is as enriching as it is delicious, Fauna is an absolute must-visit. Prepare to be amazed, inspired, and, above all,...