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    El Norteño

    3.2 (14 reviews)
    InexpensiveSeafood

    El Norteño Photos

    EL NORTEÑO ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Good for kids
    Good for groups

    Recommended Reviews - El Norteño

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    A mix of seafood and  was lame as a seafood person
    Victor R.

    Worse seafood I ever try in Mexico I left my plate like that nothing was fresh even the fish taco look dry out no thank of you get off the boat just watch what you eat everyone want you to come to there place but don't have the food out just picture but as you can see it was don't eat here

    Menu, prices in pesos.
    Louisa M.

    We ate here because we've always wanted to give one of the many open-air taco joints by the fish market a try, and El Norteño was the winner. You can get far better tacos elsewhere in town, but these were good enough. When in Ensenada you must have the local seafood tacos, so we opted for both the fried and grilled shrimp versions. Both were prepared quickly but were very disappointing. The corn tortillas were mediocre and the shrimp were poorly seasoned. They provided a few salsas but again, they were nothing to write home about. Prices are cheap, but there's nothing that makes this place stand out. I guess you get all the sights (and smells) of the fresh fish market across the street, but the novelty of that wears off really fast. This is an open-air restaurant and kitchen. Not a bad place if you are in a rush and need a shrimp or fish taco stat, but I would not go out of my way to eat here.

    Shrimp Taco
    Ashley C.

    El Norteño was our very first food stop in Ensenada. It's one of many open air food stalls in the Mercado Negro area. There are plenty of tables along the back side, each filled with several different containers of salsas. The chipotle and crema fresca were my favorite, on top of my shrimp taco. It's packed with shrimp and the tortilla was nice and warm. Not to mention our tacos were ready in minutes! We washed it down with their fresh lemonade, which was just perfectly sour and sweet.

    12 pesos ! so good !
    Maritza A.

    I recommend this place ! with so many fish taco stands it's hard to pick , I saw this had great reviews so I took a chance. This place is amazingly good ! I got a fish taco, and shrimp one . both were a little over 2 dollars . the way that they cook the fish and tortillas are just made perfectly . their salsa is in cute glass cups & you can put as little or as much as you would like. if you make it down here make your way to this stand !

    Marissa S.

    Shrimp and fish tacos anyone? This has become our go-to place each time we visit Ensenada. Located next to the fish market by the boardwalk, it's guaranteed you're only getting the freshest seafood fare there is. Imagine 14 tacos and a beer for a total of $18. That's dirt cheap! And you better believe it beats any taco you could find in Mexican restaurants in the US. Served very simply, it's fish and shrimp covered in beer batter, fried then wrapped in a tortilla. They leave it up to you to go crazy with all the toppings and condiments they have on each table. Other offerings are available but we come here mainly for the tacos. Shrimp aka camaron for me please! Trust me, you can't go wrong with that. Queso camaron is another thing to try with shrimp cooked in garlic, no batter, and then paired with Mexican cheese. It's also delisyoso. The fish is a popular item in our group and I can't blame them. Moist and flaky inside with a nice batter, ooh la la! 5 shrimp and 2 fish tacos is my normal order and I'm ready to explode by then. Stick with 4 if you have a normal appetite but don't fret, if you feel like you need more, you can add on later as it comes out fast. Kudos to the staff for being so quick and efficient. We're never less than 12 people in our party when we come and they seem to always serve us with ease, even having multiple checks at that. They speak english and accept USD. El Norteño is muy bueno!

    Marlin .. Shrimp .. Fish + Corona :: absolutely amazing and no sauce or chile needed!! $6.00 total
    Plan B.

    Review 53 Ask anyone in Ensenada about Baja Tacos and you'll be sent to El Norteño!! Getting here is'nt difficult. Find the movie theater and you're 100 yards away. The service here is very fast and accurate, the fish is extremely fresh!!! Now how much does it cost? 1-Corona 1-Jamaica 1-Shrimp taco 1-Fish taco 1-Marlin taco $6.00 !!!!! Need I write more? Get yourself here and eat till you can't eats no more :D Plan B

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    Muelle 3 - Beer & gin

    Muelle 3

    4.8(126 reviews)
    0.1 km
    $$

    It's been a year since we were last in Ensenada, and I've honestly been thinking about this…read morerestaurant ever since. We've already done all the touristy things, so this time, coming back here was pretty much the one thing I really wanted to do. I tried to make a reservation 10 days in advance, but no one answered the phone. I eventually DMed them on Instagram, and they gave me another number to try. Of course, life got in the way, I forgot, and suddenly it was the day of our Ensenada stop. We walked past the restaurant around 11:30 and saw people already working inside, so we poked our heads in and asked if they could fit us in at 2:00 for two people. No problem! They told us we had 90 minutes, which was perfect. We did see a few people get turned away because they didn't have reservations, so I'd definitely recommend making one in advance. I would hate to make the trip all the way there and get turned away! We came back a little before 2, were seated immediately, and went straight for the two dishes I remembered loving: the half-order ceviche and the fish risotto. We also wanted the seafood pasta, but our waiter wisely warned us that the ceviche was enough for 2-3 people and the risotto for 3-4. For two people, adding the pasta would be way too much. He was absolutely right! The ceviche was fantastic, and I was already getting full, but the fish risotto? I loved it so much that somehow we finished the whole thing. Do we have free food on the cruise? Absolutely. But would I get off the ship and come back here again if I were in Ensenada? Absolutely yes. Add a michelada for me, a beer for my husband, and a roughly $60 bill for two, and that's pretty much my definition of a perfect afternoon in Ensenada. One of the best meals of the trip and totally worth coming back for.

    While walking on the Malecon, we checked if Muelle3 has room for 4 hungry guests and fortunately,…read moreonly one table was occupied. The last time my friends attempted to eat here, the restaurant was full and it will take at least a 30 minute wait to get seated. Today, the 21st of November was our lucky day as we were craving the freshest ceviche Ensenada has to offer and experiencce the five star rating Muelle 3 was known for. Our party of 4 chose to sit outside to eat lunch on this cool, cloudy Friday afternoon and be exposed to the sights and sounds of this busy commercial and fishing port. Within minutes of getting settled, our free appetizer - Tortilla Espanola and a plate full of lemon & lime slices with an oyster shell-full of sea salt and chili powder occupied the center of our table. Then came the Ceviche de la casa. A winner in my book of ceviches! Plus a coaster-sized, fresh off the pan tortilla chips gave it a unique serving style. We had to order another bowl of tortillas because eating ceviche without it just won't be the same. The Calamar frito were perefectly breaded, without excess flour and grease in every bite. Another winner! Last but not the least is the Pasta de Mar with the clams of different sizes and pre-cut scallops in the their shell. Muy Delicioso! More hungry patrons started arriving and we still got prompt service. I will make it a point to grab a satisfying seafood dish or two here the next time I visit Ensenada whether by car or by cruise ship.

    Photos
    Muelle 3 - Very cozy place

    Very cozy place

    Muelle 3 - Salsa picante

    Salsa picante

    Muelle 3 - Exterior

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    Exterior

    La Cocedora de Langosta - Oyster agua chile

    La Cocedora de Langosta

    4.3(92 reviews)
    0.1 km
    $$

    Ensenada. The tide dragged our vessel toward the coast as if compelled by ancient…read morepact--barnacle-bound and whisper-wrapped. My fellowship, a cluster of mere mortals with taste far keener than foresight, insisted we seek a place foretold in gustatory prophecy: La Cocedora de Langosta. I assented, though the sea had begun to speak again. A cruel trick of salt and memory. We arrived. The lobster was not served--it presented itself. Shell split like prophecy fulfilled, meat steaming with tales older than Atlantis. The ceviche? Lime and fire in perfect alchemy. It hissed in my mouth like the last words of a betrayed siren. A whole fish, fried until its soul ascended, left bones so clean they could be used in ritual. Angels wept; I salted accordingly. The risotto arrived next, not on a plate but in a chalice. Each bite stirred marrow and memory, comfort and command. My sea legs stood straighter. My resolve thickened. Libations flowed--freely, fervently, faultlessly. The chalice refilled itself (or perhaps the staff were trained in illusion and replenishment). Laughter, clinking glass, and something close to joy dared to rise. Staff were keen-eyed adepts, operating with the grace of trained familiars. The atmosphere carried hints of volcanic enchantment and citrus optimism. Barry the Brave Muffin Baker--my misguided nemesis-ally--might have found peace here. Or at least, a decent aioli. Verdict: A rare convergence of flesh, flavor, and fate. Five stars scorched upon the firmament by my hand. I may never return. But that's only because the enchantment forbade it.

    I came here for only one thing, lobster!…read more It did not disappoint although the price tag is heavy for the lobster, but the lobster was absolutely delicious. I think what I really liked about this place is that they accommodated my friend with his vegetarian needs. The vegetarian pasta dish that they generated looked very appetizing. This place is on the north side of the black fish market so there is less foot traffic.

    Photos
    La Cocedora de Langosta
    La Cocedora de Langosta - Whole fish, 6 of us picked it apart.

    Whole fish, 6 of us picked it apart.

    La Cocedora de Langosta

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    Mercado Negro de Mariscos

    Mercado Negro de Mariscos

    4.6(13 reviews)
    0.1 km

    12/16/2025 - Stop by the Mercado Negro de Mariscos (Black Market for Seafood) in Encinada, Mexico…read moreand decided to go inside to take a look. Surprisely, each giant calm costs only $3, plus a $3 cooking fee. I selected a table where I can get a lof of direct sun on my back, which in turn can boost my vitamin D3 level, and asked for a sashimi dish.

    Saturday September 7, 2024 Royal Caribbean Navigator of the…read moreSeas 85℉ / 55% Humidity Also known as Mercado de Mariscos, the Black Market is one of the largest seafood markets in Ensenada. The original location was where the modern fish taco was born supposedly. It all started when Mesoamericans nixtamalized maize, which became flatbreads. Eventually it led to corn tortillas, which were used to hold various fillings like seafood. The Spanish Colonial period introduced new ingredients and cooking techniques. Japanese fishermen in Baja California during the early 20th century helped popularize tempura-style frying. Seafood vendors brought batter fish to the mercado in the 50s/60s, which became a hit. Then a San Diego State University student opened the first Rubio's a couple decades later, and now fish tacos are enjoyed by everyone today. I didn't spend much time here because I had to make it back onto the cruise ship. But as someone who appreciates food and history, it was nice to walk around. The original mercado shuttered in 1967 and the vendors relocated to the waterfront, and eventually moved into the building you see now. Lots of stalls selling all different types of seafood. There's also restaurants nearby where you can order ceviche, cocteles, oysters, and other regional specialties. Mexico 2024 collection: https://www.yelp.com/collection/kYAzNGL6833M5SmSYnRRVA/Mexico-2024

    Photos
    Mercado Negro de Mariscos - Hook

    Hook

    Mercado Negro de Mariscos
    Mercado Negro de Mariscos - Statue

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    Statue

    La Cevichería Oyster Bar

    La Cevichería Oyster Bar

    4.6(101 reviews)
    0.4 km

    We were wanting to try out octopus ceviche and this popped as a place that had it! They have…read moreoutdoor and indoor seating, I prefer outdoor since the weather was super nice! I liked that they have colorful flags outdoors, which lent to the open and casual feel of this restaurant while also incorporating the Mexican culture. The waiter spoke English and was able to explain the menu. For drinks, I chose the Berry Sangria. This came in a huge glass! Loved the layering of this drink. I also ordered the Tamarind Margarita, which was darker than anticipated. Definitely had a tamarind forward flavor. I also had the oysters , which was nice and meaty but it wasn't as cold as I would like. I also tried the Ceviche De La Casa which had tuna, clams, octopus and tuna. This came accompanied with a bag of tostadas and four types of sauces. I loved the fact that you can adjust the flavoring of your ceviches with the available salsas including bottled ones that are brought to the table! I've never had this type of ceviche before and I was pleasantly surprised with different types of seafood that tasted fresh and vibrant. Definitely a great place to visit that wasn't overly crowded. I'd definitely visit again!

    I visited La Cevichería Oyster Bar in Ensenada, México [Alvarado 285] on Monday, 05/18/26, around…read more12:00 PM. I was so excited to come here because I was on the hunt for a restaurant that served Aguachile! Options for the Aguachiles included Negro, Rojo, or Verde. I opted for the Aguachile Verde. The entire dish was so refreshingly light and palatable. I was obsessed with the taste of the fresh shrimp, cucumber, and red onion, all soaked in the tasty verde sauce and Tajín. It paired so well with the tostadas. It was also priced reasonably at MX$325, equivalent to about $19. The portion and abundance of the Aguachile were plentiful, as I was full when I finished. The ambiance of the restaurant was beautifully inviting and vibrant. I loved the presentation of the colorful, decorative papel picado flags, which added to the celebration of Mexican culture. The atmosphere was amazingly festive as a whole. The customer service was welcoming and friendly. Overall, La Cevichería Oyster Bar did not disappoint with the incredible Aguachile. I highly recommend coming here for that or any seafood dish that you're craving.

    Photos
    La Cevichería Oyster Bar - View from patio tables

    View from patio tables

    La Cevichería Oyster Bar - Ceviche De La Casa

    Ceviche De La Casa

    La Cevichería Oyster Bar - Front of restaurant

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    Front of restaurant

    Mariscos Bahia de Ensenada - Lobster

    Mariscos Bahia de Ensenada

    3.9(98 reviews)
    0.3 km
    $$

    Visited during port 2 of our Carnival cruise. We were walking around exploring the town and decided…read moreto stop in when we got hungry. The restaurant feels more upscale than expected, but still clearly a place locals frequent, which is usually a good sign. It specializes in seafood. If you don't speak Spanish, they do provide an English menu, though prices are listed in pesos. We ordered 6 tacos total, 4 fish and 2 shrimp, along with 2 cokes and 2 bottled waters. They also brought complimentary chips, salsas, lime, and cabbage, plus ketchup and mayo on the side (we didn't end up using those). The tacos were simple but very well done. The fish and shrimp were fried fresh, light and crispy without being greasy. The shrimp was my favorite. The pico de gallo was fresh and flavorful, and the lime and cabbage added a good balance and crunch. I honestly wish I would've ordered their whole fried fish because it looked incredible, but there's no way two people could've finished it in one sitting. The restaurant itself was clean, and the staff were extremely attentive. The service felt high-class in the sense that they were very respectful and treated the experience with care, almost like a fine dining environment, while still being approachable. Total came out to about $40 USD with a 20% tip ($34 before tip), which is excellent value for the quality and portion. Overall, this is a solid seafood spot in Ensenada. Simple food done right, elevated by great service and a clean, welcoming environment.

    1st time here, party of 8. The place was packed, but we were lucky to get a table fairly quick, it…read morehas a full bar. Menus available in Spanish & English. I ordered the lemon margarita it delicious & tasty. We ordered shrimp ceviche, grilled shrimp & lobster, shrimp cocktail, grilled chicken and 2 steak dinners. The waiter was so thoughtful to bring complementary quesadillas since all the seafood orders were served and 2 persons were still waiting for their steak dishes. Overall we were all satisfied with our food and we will definitely come back.

    Photos
    Mariscos Bahia de Ensenada - Tacos ready to be served

    Tacos ready to be served

    Mariscos Bahia de Ensenada - Whole fish

    Whole fish

    Mariscos Bahia de Ensenada - Micheladas

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    Micheladas

    El Norteño - seafood - Updated August 2026

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