Excursion San diego's culinary roots tour at San Diego

Spanish and Mexican history are tied to nearly every aspect of California history and culture, and one of America’s largest cities was founded nearly 500 years ago with the discovery of San Diego’s bay by early Spanish explorers. Over time, Mexican food has emerged as a local, national and worldwide cuisine marked by its diverse styles and ingredients. Proximity to Mexico’s border a mere 17 miles away means that San Diego benefits from a long history of Mexican-American chefs and culinary influencers.

Head to Barrio Logan, a neighborhood whose story presents the present-day culture of Mexican-Americans or Chicanos. The Chicanoism movement is a Mexican-American civil rights movement reaching its height during the 1960s, and this area of the city fuses art and food to tell this story. Stop at ¡Salud! for a “street” style taco, with delicious meats served on a soft tortilla and an "agua fresca" which are popular drinks made with fresh fruit. Head down the street to admire the stunning murals that adorn the concrete support piers and learn about the history of Barrio Logan through the vivid folk art.

Old Town is a historic district within San Diego that lies where the original permanent settlement was founded. Originally, the site of a Spanish mission church and Presidio fortress, the area is now popular with visitors and locals alike for its abundance of Mexican restaurants. Visit Café Coyote, a popular restaurant for both locals and visitors, for a chance to enjoy some traditional favorite dishes. Start with some chips and fresh made guacamole before trying a chimichanga, a flauta and a quesadilla.  While you dine, a local expert will join the group to share insight on the production of tequila before providing samples of three different types along with tasting notes.  

Head back to the port with bragging rights on an immersive experience into food and culture.

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