Faustine in Tijuana is a great brunch option if you’re looking for aesthetic and delicious fusion Mexican/American food. The restaurant takes after the Alice in Wonderland theme, in which you’ll see the ceiling covered with branches and leaves and finer details like the plates/cups being unique in nature. The restrooms even have the Alice in Wonderland music playing, so you know they thought the whole place out. The service and experience was phenomenal.
Things to Know about Faustine
There is a separate menu between brunch and dinner, so expect fuller meals to be offered in the afternoon. If you’re planning to bring a larger party, calling for a reservation is recommended. Faustine offers a valet service, which is great, considering Tijuana does not always have the best parking. Lastly, bring some patience because the menu is specifically crafted, and it will take some time for certain drinks and dishes. This place is perfect if you’re not pressed for time.
The Dining Experience
Don’t expect a large menu, but expect a menu with enough options for you and the table. Each dish is portioned for individuals, but nothing is stopping you from having it family style.
Corn Pancake
The corn pancake was AMAZING. Everyone had a small piece, but that bite packed a PUNCH with the corn flavor. I typically do not eat pancakes, but this was a big hit. It reminded me of tamales without the masa. If I ever see this in the US, I am definitely ordering it.
Smoked Salmon
I was surprised the smoked salmon was a fusion between smoked and sushi-grade salmon. I’m more shocked that this has been a bigger trend in Mexico. You can tell that the chef took their time to specifically craft and place the different ingredients, from the olives to the tomatoes to the sliced green onions and flowers. I’m actually a fan of this one. It was VERY flavorful, especially with the lemon squeeze.
The table also ordered other dishes, including the chilaquiles and breakfast burrito. The breakfast burrito was crafted interestingly, because it looked a bit deconstructed. It’s so beautiful with the greeneries, and you’ll have to roll it up and enjoy it.
The Cocktail Menu
Most of us ordered different drinks. The presentation was gorgeous, and the taste was rather sweet. I felt like I didn’t taste much alcohol in all of the cocktails throughout Mexico. The most interesting drink was the “Mad Hatter”, which required a specific tea to be brewed and mixed with alcohol. Overall, we are a fan.
Overall, I had a great experience at the restaurant. The service was great, and the food/drinks were delicious. It felt like a safe environment overall, and you do not feel like you’re in Tijuana. If anything, this felt like another morning in West Hollywood.
This blog post is part of my Baja California weekend trip.
Faustine – Tijuana
Av. Jalisco, Davila, 22044
Tijuana, B.C., Mexico
+52 663 209 9259
The Comments
Chef Javier Caro
Hi , I am Javier Caro the owner and chef for Grupo Justina…. ( faustine, la justina tijuana, La justina valle and oja valle) i will like to thank you for your time, for your story and for understanding how much work is put in this process, thank you so much for stopping by and making this experience a positive part of your trip.
hope you have time to stop at any of our other concepts ( let me know if you feel like doing something else local or in Valle de guadalupe, our WINE COUNTRY)
God bless you. Thanks for the review and will be in touch…
Instagram @jcxpenss