This month we bring to the table an up-and-coming destination for adventurous foodies and wine lovers alike. It’s the fertile Guadalupe Valley located just 90 minutes south of San Diego. This unique setting is drawing national attention, as the restaurants there are owned and operated by Michelin star chefs of international acclaim. It’s the opposite of pretentious, featuring al fresco, vineyard-side dining in elegantly rustic surroundings. The food is something like you’d expect from a top-notch place in the states; farm-to-table freshness and platings that you will be tempted to photograph before enjoying. And since you won’t want to leave this valley, two pristine, hacienda-style hotels invite you to stay.

Here’s just a taste…

El Jardín – This campestre-style restaurant is nestled under a canopy of olive and pink peppercorn trees alongside the Adobe Guadalupe vineyard. Chef Ryan Steyn uses organic, fresh local ingredients and a touch of European influence in every dish he prepares, whether it’s a simple pizzetta or a sizzling slice of grilled yellowtail served with fresh greens, tomatoes and snap peas. Weekly changing menus satisfy even the most discriminating palates.

Casa Mayoral - is a boutique B&B that offers a perfect setting for special events and culinary experiences. They feature four newly designed custom style cottages, all with air conditioning, modern design and wonderful views of the valley and the nighttime skyline. After a special breakfast, order a spa treatment, hike, horseback ride, sample the regional wines and have their exclusive chef prepare a meal for you that you never forget.

Finca Altozano is another gem. Tasty plates of creative delicacies, such as freshly grilled octopus are prepared by charismatic celebrity chef Javier Plascencia from an outside kitchen. Sip one of the local whites with amigos around a cozy fire pit, or snuggle close enough to their outdoor kitchen to see your Baja-Med style meal being prepared.

Hotel Boutique is another top choice for accommodations when you’ve taken in your fill of all the Valle de Guadalupe has to offer. Call it a retreat if you will, as they offer a relaxing pool and breathtaking vineyard and mountain views. You will be sure to return to this hacienda-style getaway for some much needed R&R.

Alt Strat is honored to represent these fine additions to the Baja travel scene!