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BoozeSlinger

Best Tail in Town! By Mike Fortson

Rockin’ Baja Coastal Cantina’s roots are inspired by a beach nestled down along the coast of Baja Mexico. The small town of Puerto Nuevo has an extensive reputation as a destination to enjoy delicious lobster and meals in a vibrant, family environment. Inspired by his experiences in Puerto Nuevo, Rick Dirienzo opened the original Rockin’ Baja in Bonita, California.

As one would expect, Rockin’ Baja’s atmosphere and ambience is everything a coastal cantina should be. Walking into the Cantina is like being at a beach resort bar while on vacation. The restaurant is a picture into paradise with palapa like straw hanging throughout the restaurant and colorful walls. Comical quotes decorate the walls of the restaurant providing insight into the life of an easy going coastal resident; which are also great for any hiccup in conversation or a transition in a stale one.

So, next time you feel like living out a Jimmy Buffet song, make it a point and visit one of Rockin’ Baja Coastal Cantina’s three locations in San Diego. Happy Hour is Monday thru Friday from 3 to 6pm and daily bar specials every night from 6pm to Close with $3 to $5 Drink Specials and $2 to $6 Food Specials.

Get to know Nikki, a bartender at their Old Town location!

Age: 28
Hometown: Twain Harte, CA – it’s an hour east of Modesto
College: I graduate in 2012 from CCSD for Respiratory Therapy

Favorite Happy Hour: Lei Lounge
Favorite bar to take an out-of-towner to: La Puerta – it has the best Tequila selection.
Favorite Tequila: Dos Lunas, Clase Azul; we have the Clase Azul here.
Favorite Beer/Cocktail: Modelo Especial, Vodka/Soda
Favorite drink to make: Lemon Drop
Least favorite drink to make: Bloody Mary
Biggest Tip: $100
Favorite part of your job: I used to waitress and now being a bartender I feel like I don’t have to be as fake with customers and always having to smile.
Least favorite part of your job: How the customer is always right and having to smile at someone when they say you’re wrong, even though you’re really right.

What is something only a local would know about San Diego?
The High Dive Bar (Linda Vista)

What’s the most annoying thing that a customer does?
Tries to send something back when their plate is empty and then not want to pay for it.

What celeb would you most want to have a cocktail with?
Will Farrell

How many phone numbers do you get a week?
I get more guys ask if I’m on Facebook then numbers.

Favorite thing on the menu: All our Baja Buckets are great; the crab and shrimp are phenomenal.

What’s something about yourself that many don’t know?
I’m shy and embarrass easily.

What’s the worst pick-up line you have ever heard?
It’s not really that type of place; it’s more of a mature crowd. But, there was this cute guy that came in here last night and asked for a really tall Grey Goose and I asked him, “so you want a double?” He said, “no, I just want to pay for regular price.” His stock definitely dropped after that comment. It’s so annoying and a turn-off when guys straight up ask like that. I probably would have made it stronger if he would’ve sat down and chatted for a while.

What’s it take to become a regular?
If you come in once or twice a week. It’s happy hour all the time if you’re a regular.

Website: RockinBaja.com

LOCATIONS
Gaslamp: 310 5th Avenue | 619.234.6333
Oceanside: 258 Harbor Drive South | 760.967.6199
Old Town: 3890 Twiggs Street | 619.260.0305