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