La Estancia — Restaurant in Baja California

Very RUSTIC but charming rancho decor. It is kept very dark inside. We came around 5pm, midsummer, and it took a while for my eyes to adjust. There's an immediate smokey smell because they use real wood in their fireplaces and I think for some of their cooking too (ie tomahawk steaks?). The service was very good, prompt, professional and courteous. Although I speak Spanish the waiter spoke enough English for my husband who doesn't speak or understand Spanish. We're gringos and they said the salsa was not spicy ("no picante") yet it had those white chile seeds which, of course, we didn't notice until after it burned both our mouths. I had the Borrego Machaca and loved it. My husband makes his own Mole (very complex recipe) so he wanted to try their Mole Chicken Enchiladas which I taste tested and the chicken was so tender but the mole was only so so, too simple, none of the complexity that's expected with Mole. My husband's 2 Tecate Light beers were wonderfully icey cold served with icey cold frosty mugs at our table. We each had their cheesecake and we both agreed the cheesecake itself was delicious but the toppings were only 50/50. He got the Oreo cookie topping because he want something chocolate, but the cookies were mushy and my Guava topping was a pleasant sweet fruity flavor that I enjoyed. I'll definitly go there again because there's alot more to explore on their...

The outside seating has the best ambiance I've ever had. One wall has a waterfall and in the pond below there's a real turtle and some fake ducks. Nice tropical plush trees around it. Service was good but typical Mexican fashion you have to request your check when you're done with your meal or they'll let you sit there and enjoy the ambience. I had the coconut shrimp which was really good my husband had the chili relleno which I've never seen it serve like that the presentation was beautiful. Also both meals were very flavorful. We went on a Wednesday night and they had a single musician playing which was pretty good no singing, just music. When someone was celebrating her birthday they had a guitarist come out and play for her. Makes you feel like you're at a high end establishment. It was above $25 for a good meal per person. It will definitely be on our rotation when we come back. I've included photos of everything I saw inside including the outside in our meal. We had the cheesecake with fruit for dessert and it was absolutely delicious and piled with fruit. I also had a glass of red wine sangria which is delicious as well full of fruit. If you go down the stairs they have a cedar room where does the aroma is amazing with walls surrounded with wine. Definitely take a trip down there and check it out. I saw a sewing machine similar to the one my...

La Estancia offers a delightful blend of elegance and casual comfort, making it an ideal spot for any occasion. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere that perfectly balances upscale dining with a welcoming vibe.

The restaurant is beautifully decorated and impeccably clean, contributing to a pleasant dining experience. We were fortunate enough to be seated in the outdoor area, which was even more charming and added to the overall ambiance. It set the perfect scene for a memorable birthday dinner.

When it comes to the food, La Estancia certainly lives up to its reputation. I opted for the chipotle pasta with shrimp, and it was every bit as delicious as described. The menu offers a wide variety of options, ensuring that there's something for everyone. My kids were particularly pleased with their hamburger and chicken nuggets, which were well-prepared and enjoyable.

The desserts at La Estancia are a highlight in their own right. They present a tempting selection on a platter before serving, allowing you to see all the delicious choices before they’re brought to your table.

Overall, La Estancia is a fantastic dining destination for those looking for a special meal. I highly recommend it for anyone visiting the area who wants to enjoy a nice dinner in a...