Ensenada is the kind of place that transports you as soon as you walk in. Perhaps it’s simply delivering on the promise of the name. The bright, sunny flavors of Baja California, that takes you to a beach even on a cold winter day in Brooklyn. Ensenada is a Mexican restaurant with a coastal point of view. The menu is heavy on seafood and mezcal. It is lively, with whimsical aquatic motifs, and a blue trimmed walls that set the playful tone.

The food is simultaneously classic and innovative, with flavors and formats inspired by the taco carts in Baja, cheffy restaurants in CDMX and executive chef Luis Herrera’s Venezuelan heritage. There’s a rotating cast of seasonal tacos, aguachiles (amarillo y negro), tostadas piled high with fish and seafood, and an excellent fish “al pastor” complete with fresh tortillas and pineapple butter. On the drinks side there’s plenty of tequila and mezcal on the menu to dial up the night. The corner location just east of the BQE makes it feel like a local haunt in the best way. Casual, energetic, and not scene-y.