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Open later than most in Puerto Nuevo. They do not take Credit card which is fine. Service is kind and welcoming with lots of seating options. Because we dined after 8pm we enjoyed a quiet window seat. Table adorned with a single dripping candle in a wine bottle. I loved that. Food is fresh and served promptly. We would definitely be back.
Friday ditch day but in the best way. Took the niece and nephew on a foodie field trip to Villa Ortega in Puerto Nuevo, and let me tell you--it was a full-on seafood fiesta with a mezcal chaser. I started with a Mezcalito de Jamaica (aka smoky hibiscus magic in a glass) and dove into the aguachile verde, which was so fresh it practically slapped me with a lime. My niece leveled up with a strawberry margarita and shrimp ceviche served inside an actual half pineapple--because when your plate doubles as tropical décor, you know you're winning. My nephew kept it bold with a Mezcalito de Piña and the aguachile rojo, which was good... but sorry kid, verde over rojo all day. The views? Stunning. The vibe? Rustic coastal charm that makes you want to sip slower and stay longer. It was a Friday afternoon so it wasn't busy but as we were leaving the weekend crowd had begun to arrive and it was on!!! Service was good but we lost our waitress to a bigger group so walked up to the front to pay. Otherwise, everyone was kind and attentive. Verdict: Villa Ortega = seaside therapy with a side of chile-induced tears.
The place is a seafood restaurant known for lobster overlooking the ocean. We ordered a couple of things to try out different options. We also got some drinks that were really good. The lobster was gummy not the greatest, the aguachiles were super tasty, the cóctel de camarón was refreshing and satisfying l, we got marlin and gobernador tacos. The down side of this was our server seemed she was not having a good day. Since we got there she gave us attitude and just did not seem like she wanted to be at work. Also, this place only takes cash.
Wifey and I went to this restaurant for Valentine's Day 2025 and it was our Anniversary also. It was our first time at this restaurant and we came because we got recommendations from everyone in Los Angeles we know. This place did not disappoint. Upon arrival you are bombarded with this amazing smell of delicious food. The decor and the ambience of the restaurant is pretty cool. I like a lot of the statues they have made of wood that depicts different character characters. Our server was really nice and patient with us because we had a difficult time knowing the prices compared to US and pesos. The food was delicious. My wife had the salmon and I had the ribeye steak. Wife wanted crab legs, but unfortunately, we could not find crab legs anywhere in Rosarito. My steak was perfect cooked perfectly tasted great. My wife loves her salmon. The best thing the beans and rice the best rice and beans I've ever had in my entire life. Amazing. I recommend you come to this restaurant if you ever visit Rosarito Baja California Mexico we will definitely be back on our next trip.
If you talk of Puerto Nuevo and lobsters, the first name that comes up is, Villa Ortega's. It is a sprawling restaurant with numerous attractive dining spaces, both indoor and outdoor. The majority of the latter is situated on several patios that command stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. I was told that these different outside seating locations hold around a thousand people over the weekends. Once you are here, it is easy to see why that is so. The menu is extensive and there are numerous choices both for meat eaters, seafood lovers and vegetarians. But if you are making the trek, all the way from the SFV, like I did, you have to order the lobster. And that too, Puerto Nuevo Style (after you have selected a table with captivating ocean views). A difficult task because each table competes with the other. My dish came with a tortilla soup and complimentary bread, tortillas, refried beans, rice and two salsas. The tortillas (made with lard) deserve special mention. They were fresh,handmade, with the right amount of chew and charred look and taste. It takes you to another place. My favorite way to eat these is with the refried beans (which were also superb). I ordered a small lobster and it arrived as a generous portion, succulent and full of amazing flavors and taste. Yes, it comes with melted butter too. Every bite was divine. My server was Antonio and he provided excellent service. Undoubtedly, a memorable lunch visit and I cannot wait, to go back again.
The valet staff was very friendly. The servers inside were not. We had a vegan individual within our party of 10 and were told by a server over the phone that it was okay to bring in outside food since their menu doesn't accommodate a vegan diet. When we got there we were told it wasn't allowed. It was a lot of back and forth until we were allowed to continue on and be seated. Unfortunately the service did not improve much after. It felt like we were being watched the entire time and we couldn't really enjoy our time there. Which is a shame since the outdoor seating area is gorgeous and overlooking the sea. The food was good, not great. Because of the service, I will not be returning.
Best Puerto Nuevo restaurant. Don't be fooled by all the other Ortega named after restaurants in the area. Located in the corner with a huge space for parking which typically is full especially on the weekends. Must come here alone to try their delicious tortilla soup with cheese. Free appetizer cheese balls and salsa and chips. You'll most likely see trio's willing to sing a song for a fee inside which is nice and unique to hear one of your favorites songs while enjoying a drink in the sunset. Beautiful ocean view with delicious selection of food to try. Most all people come for the lobster tails but steak and other items are just as great. Never a fail. Must try.
The place is known for their food. There's plenty of ppl trying to get you to pay for parking or to eat at their restaurant. They do have a parking lot to park your car. But you can also park on the street for free. It is cash only and they will you give you the pesos and American price. Total for 5 ppl with drinks and entrees was about 200 bucks. Door was just okay to be honest. Views are nice and they do have bands playing at your request. The brand and tortilla soup were delicious. They do give you bottled water unless you want tap.
To start off the view is amazing! I stopped by Friday around 11:30AM. This location is huge and they easily accommodate large groups. They have plenty of parking available. We were lucky to have Francisco as a server. He was very welcoming and took care of us. We ordered a platter w/ 3 extra lobsters on the side for a group of 7 . It was plenty of food we even had left overs to take home. Everything was flavorful my favorite by far was the lobster, cooked to perfection. I was also a big fan of the hand made tortillas. They are gigantic and taste delicious. Live music if you choose to have them serenade your loved one. When we left the restaurant was packed. So I recommend and early visit. FYI they are pet friendly which I loved!
5 years ago
Came on a Tuesday morning. Not busy at all. Service was good. Food was good. Aguachile verde- so good. They give you lots of shrimp unlike most places in the states. Wasn't too spicy. Definitely recommend this dish. Tasted so fresh. Shrimp ceviche- can't go wrong here. I was already pretty full when eating this one. Good enough for three people to share. We didn't even bother eating the pineapple because we over ordered. Guacamole appetizer- huge portion. Although not any salt. I would have preferred a little bit of salt. Strawberry margarita- good taste. Couldn't taste the alcohol Bacon wrapped shrimp- didn't try this but friend got full after four shrimps. I think he said it was because there was so much bacon wrapped on it that it filled him up. read more
11 months ago
This spot has a priceless views .The sound of the ocean and occasional seagull are the perfect backdrop to a beautiful meal. There was a trio walking around singing and playing their instruments, the service was excellent and the place is spotlessly clean. To start the meal they bring you 2 salsas , chips and bowl of limes and fresh baked rolls stuffed with cream cheese and jalapenos. They serve cans and bottle drinks not fountain which is prefer. I ordered the mexican combo and my wife the lobster combo . My arrachera steak was cooked perfectly and the grilled cactus was a nice touch. The chili rellano was incredible but the enchilada was a little sweet for my liking. My wife's plate came with a medium lobster and shrimp scampi. All meals are served with soup or salad (. I highly suggest you get the tortila soup) rice and beans . They serve perfect smooth lardy beans that im addicted to . The tortillas are hand made , almost paper thin flour that are roughly the size of a large pizza . We couldnt eat anymore so we passed on dessert but they looked delicious. Our tab came out to $66 usd . Pretty solid deal and a perfect lunch spot . I will go back. read more
2 years ago
The food and view was breathtaking the music was wonderful but a word of caution is that they will rip you off so ALWAYS MAKE SURE TO CHECK THE RECIEPT BEFORE PAYING they up charged us up to $80 more that what we had and tried to take the receipt away as well. It's unfortunate that this place tried to take advantage of people visiting the area or else I would have given it a better review. The places around have a great view that won't do this. read more
3 years ago
Sad that I didn't read the reviews that it was CASH ONLY. We were seated then my husband left me to go hunt for an ATM. That alone deserves a reduction of one star for me. We came specifically to have local lobster in our way from beautiful vineyards of Ensenada to the airport. I was always told Puerto Nuevo was a great place for Lobster. I should have been suspicious when the food came out within 5 mins of ordering. Lobster was tough and flavor wasn't amazing. Very pricey for fast food lobster. That is the other star reduction The service was super, location is nice, ambiance nice and I LOVED the frijoles. I am thinking if I come back to Puerto Nuevo I will try another spot. read more
Omg!!! This restaurant is a MUST DO. For sure my new favorite spot in Baja Let's start with the location OCEAN SIDE views breathtaking taking The atmosphere AWESOME AND FUN The food GREAT!!! The prices THE BEST!!!! For a table of 4. 2 orders of lobster, one order or steak and lobster and one order of rib eye along with drinks total was $110. The flour tortillas are hand made (love it) and by far the biggest tortillas I have EVER seen. I absolutely love hand made tortillas Service is very attentive. The mariachi is awesome and really sets the tone for a great authentic dinner The lobster was so fresh and just melted in your mouth I'm so happy we came here and I can't wait to come back !!!! read more
4 years ago
I'll start this off by saying Lobster is not really my thing, personally I'd rather head south to Ensenada and have some Tacos de Pescado y Camaron. Villa Ortega's has been around for a long time, and while I'm sure it's not the best food in the area, they do have the best view so you'll find this is basically a tourist spot, and for all the gabachos it's CASH ONLY, and YES, they'll take your USD$$. Surf & Turf https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/villa-ortegas-puerto-nuevo?select=wL4BVhz2HUxg2Gwqt6pn_A The Steak was lean, tender and flavorful, I also enjoyed it more than the Lobster, nothing great but a solid good 4-Stars Would I return? only if I'm playing tour guide..... read more
CASH ONLY. Place was pretty empty for lunch time, usually a bad sign, but we decided to stay anyways since we were already here. Messed up a few of our orders, customer service was lacking, and food was very mediocre. Had the fish ceviche, coconut shrimp and the octopus for appetizers, all mediocre, nothing special. Had the lobster, it was bland, definitely not worth the hype. Maybe theres other places near-by that is better.. any suggestions? read more
Been here twice. First time was 4 years ago. Same great taste! Each plate/lobster order comes with rice, beans, and jumbo flour tortillas. I ordered one lobster because I thought it was enough for one person to eat. My boyfriend got the lobster plate and two people could have ate out of it. Next time we will definitely share. You have an option to sit near the ocean view or indoor dinning area. The servers were friendly. read more
2 years ago
4 years ago
While There are so many lobster restaurants in Puerto Nuevo, I'm so glad we went to this one. The food was outstanding and the ambiance was perfect. The service can be better but overall, I will go back again. read more
Before leaving Rosarito, my group and I wanted to have some seafood from one of the best places out here and everyone says it's Ortega's. Lots of seating and beautiful view of the ocean with the outdoor seating. My partner and I shared a seafood platter that includes shrimp, lobster, and octopus. I got a piña colada to drink and upon everyone receiving their food, we got rice, beans, and tortillas to share. The lobster was very tender and the garlic butter with it was great. I loved the octopus legs, they weren't too chewy which means they were cooked well. The various shrimps on the platter were fun to eat too, who doesn't love bacon wrapped shrimp?! Well worth the money spent here. read more
This place is poppin'. We were seated outside far away from the madness but were still surrounded by plenty of people. Nonexistent customer service, food had no flavor, chewy lobster served with imitation butter, we were never served chips and salsa... The view was nice since the restaurant overlooks the ocean and the tortillas were good, but that's about it. We were never served chips and salsa, it took them 45 mins to take our order, people who were seated after us were already paying for the food they already ate and getting ready to leave. The lobster was chewy. It didn't slide off the shell and melt in my mouth as it was supposed to, as this place is known for. I don't understand where all the good reviews are coming from and how this place was poppin, but it is what it is. Literally nothing but the homemade tortilla were good here. Hard pass. read more
4 years ago
Ok Excelente servicio, precio y la comida muy rica. Muy buena ubicación frente al mar. Preferible estacionarse en la entrada principal, caminar y vivir la experiencia de los puestos read more
5 years ago
This is from May 2019 and pre-COVID. We had come here based upon Yelp reviews (at the time) and really wanted a view as well. We were seated up but not outside. There are a ton of restaurants to choose from and parking is a bit tricky and limited... but this restaurant had a person saving spots if you were eating at thir restaurant... They were out of the largest lobster and was informed immediately. Our service was good and waitress attentive. Our meal arrived all at once (after our appetizer) and it was so good we were left in a food coma. Fresh tortillas and a great ambience. You cannot pass through without making a stop in Puerto Nuevo for some lobster! Will definitely be back! Did not try their drinks as we were still traveling to Ensenada to our AirBnB for the weekend. read more
7 years ago
I have been to Puerto Nuevo three times, and for my first visit, I went to Villa Ortega's for lunch. Their special was two lobster tails (which always come with rice, beans and tortillas) and they were decently sized. The bread that comes to the table is amazing. It has some sort of cheese and jalapeños inside of it and it's so warm and delicious. The special also comes with tortilla soup, which was also really flavorful! Pretty much everything was flavorful except for the lobster. It was a bit on the dry side, which was unfortunate as this was my first time at Puerto Nuevo, the "mecca" of lobster! The butter helped a lot. I have heard that Villa Ortega's is overhyped because it is the most "touristy" and mainstream, along with a beautiful view of the ocean, but their food (lobster, in particular) is not as good as other places in this area. I'm glad that their strawberry margarita, chips and dips, and sides were all tasty, though. Not to mention, their tortillas were huge! read more
3 years ago
Beautiful restaurant on the water! Friendly service. Delicious seafood and freshly made tortillas are incredible. Local wine from Valle de Guadalupe topped off our afternoon! Will definitely be back! read more
4 years ago
1 year ago
1 year ago
3 years ago
Great place to have lunch or dinner. The food and views were amazing. Waiters were courteous & professional. read more
2 years ago
5 years ago
Stellar food. Amazing service. Beautiful but foggy view. Don't understand the other reviews because this place is stellar. The guacamole, ceviche, tostada, lobster/fish filet combo, and lobster/shrimp combo were all on point, prepared perfectly. Yes, there are cheaper places that serve the same food. But the cleanliness and ambiance are so well worth it. read more
3 years ago
7 years ago
Read that this spot is a great tourist place to get some lobster! After a day of riding ATV me and my group of friends were hungry. Since we are by the sea we wanted some lobster! Came her in a group of 13 people and were seated outside in the patio area where it overlooked the ocean. The view was beautiful. The dish I got was the seafood combo which came with a medium lobster which was not a whole lobster but a lobster that was cut in half. The dish also came with shrimp and fish which I believe it was halibut. Boy the seafood tasted fresh like it came from directly from the ocean. Which I believe it did since the ocean was right next the the restaurant. The shrimp was great and so was the halibut. The lobster was off the chart and with the butter together it was heaven! read more
2 years ago
3 years ago
We came to puerto nuevo for the lobster, and we were not disappointed. With 5 people, we were able to try a lot of different dishes and were not disappointed. It is cash only, so don't bring plastic. And don't miss the chocolate cake. read more
Great food and drinks. Parking is a bit crowded but free and it has security. The place was full but we didn't have to wait too long to be seated. During our visit, they were only taking cash which can be a burden if you are only carrying plastic. Overall, very affordable and a great experience. The view of the beach also adds to experience. read more
4 years ago
This place is only getting four stars because of the awesome views and decent service because the lobster is so overcooked. Setting is casual, nothing fancy. We didn't time it but we perfectly arrived right before sunset, and watched the sun dip into the ocean. So beautiful, we sat by these large glass windows and when the sun was beaming right at eye level they were able to lower the shades so the sun wouldn't blind us. Place is large and they have servers coming in and out of the kitchen, they give out complimentary cheese stuffed bread and seems to be cash only. The waiter had said their server was down but according to other reviews, its a cash only place. We ordered our food and everything looked great when it came out, but the big show: the lobster, was a let down. So overcooked and they serve it with some cheapass butter, gross. Pricing was okay considering the location (beach view, tourist area) but idk about going back, maybe for drinks and views. You were warned! read more
2 years ago
A friend recommended us to come here and try their food and Lobster. It was a no go for us. Lobster plate was so plain and the meat was dried. The coffee was horrible- I think the person who made it doesn't drink coffee. The service here is s l O W. The waitress doesn't come back to check on you at all. When we asked for bottle of waters, she decided to clean the other tables fix the chairs then go get a water. Our coffees were ALWAYS EMPTY!! We had to do for drill 2-3x before actually getting our refill! She didn't even deserved 15% tip we gave her. She didn't even tend to us at all!! The food were not terrible but not Tasty or great at all! read more
2 years ago
4 years ago
3 years ago
4 years ago
Great views and drinks.. HOWEVER... Horrible food. The lobster lacks flavor the steak is horrible. The guac is ok but mixed with something, not just avocados. My advice go in to take a picture and grab a drink and then go and eat good somewhere else. read more
2 years ago
3 years ago
Excellent lobster with great views of the ocean. Good margaritas, great entertainment, and great service. read more
2 years ago
This cash only spot is just OK. Yes, some of the food was mostly tasty. However, you will find much better service, prices and even views elsewhere. I concur with others who say this is a tourist trap. Having enjoyed a number of other restaurants in the region that specialize in lobster, the price points are high and the serving sizes are skimpy in comparison. Also, yes, it was hard to find the server after seeing her twice at the start of our meal. A different woman -- the woman who provided the coffee -- ultimately became our server because we could not find the person seemingly assigned to our area. The lobster was on the smaller size given the cost and was somewhat tough. Overcooked, perhaps? Thankfully, the lobster was served with an ample amount of butter, because it needed the flavor boost. Sure, the sides are decent. The beans and rice were flavorful enough. But I would not return for the lobster. The mixed seafood platter was a bust. Tiny, mild flavor shrimps and sad fish (not even sure the type of fish served) were hugely overwhelming. I will say, though, that the Mexican coffee is amazing, as are the tortillas. Both are wonderful. But we didn't come for the coffee and tortillas; we came for the lobster and were unfortunately underwhelmed. read more
More info about Villa Ortega's
Barracuda 77
22710 Puerto Nuevo, Baja California
Mexico
Directions
66 161 40706
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Villa Ortega's - seafood - Updated July 2026
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