TJ Baja Taco Shop

We have plenty of Tex-Mex places here, but now we have an option from the Baja side.  TJ Baja Tacos emphasizes seafood on the menu with a definite California influence.

I have heard many good things about the place, so I stopped in the other day to give it a try.  I was served by a man who was most likely the owner.  He described the different menu items and enthusiastically answered all of my questions.

I went with the "pick 3" taco option.  I had the carne asada, grilled shrimp and marlin tacos, the seafood on corn and the beef on flour tortillas.  The corn tortillas were firm and substantial enough to keep from falling apart, which I appreciate.  I went with the suggested sauces (creamy garlic sauce and avocado), which were delicious and made a great combination with the meats.  I would only say that if they truly had confidence in their suggestions they would serve the tacos with the sauce instead of letting customers have the option.  I didn't try the habanero salsa since that is a bit much for me, but the traditional red salsa is one of the best I've tasted--it had great depth of flavor.  The green chile sauce was OK but go with the red one.

The tacos were all very worthy.  The carne asada was a good rendition, tender with only a little gristle, and good flavor.  The grilled shrimp were cooked very well with a nice snap, and were well complemented by the sauce and garnishes.  But the real standout was the marlin taco.  Marlin is a very "meaty" fish, and the taco ate almost like a very tender beef one. The peppers and cheese were perfect companions.  It's a "must try".

I got a basket of chips and guacamole with my meal.  The chips are cut thick, which is fine if they are very crunchy.  The regular ones were, but the colorful ones, while pretty, weren't quite as crisp.  The guacamole had good flavor and texture, but both it and the chips were, in my opinion, undersalted.  Good if you're trying to avoid it.

I washed all of this down with what on the in-store menu is called "fruit water" but it is traditional agua fresca (and says so on their printed one).  Same price as the soda so you should definitely try it as a change.

The decor is very clean and inviting, lots of nautical blue.  The bathroom was clean and ready--all it needs is a bit of decoration to carry the theme from the dining room and it's perfect.

They have an item on the menu that I definitely want to try, called Aguachiles.  Think Mexican style sushi--uncooked seafood marinated in acidic juices for 24 hours or more.  They also have ceviche if you prefer your seafood cooked.

All in all, a great experience and I expect to be back.




My Yelp Review