Rediscovering the Origins of the Caesar Salad a Century Later

Money | July 4, 2024, 7:04 p.m.

The Plascencia family, famous for their restaurant group in Tijuana, stepped in to save Caesar's Restaurant — the birthplace of the renowned Caesar salad — from closure in 2010. With a rich history dating back to 1923, Caesar's had fallen into disrepair until the Plascencias restored its former glory. The salad's origins, attributed to owner Caesar Cardini or one of the restaurant's cooks, remain mysterious. Over the years, the recipe has evolved, with the Plascencias bringing in an expert to revamp the classic dish. The reopening of Caesar's in 2010 marked a turning point for Tijuana's culinary scene, amidst political and economic challenges. Today, Caesar's continues to attract locals and tourists alike, keeping the tradition of the iconic salad alive. The story of Caesar's salad is a tale of resilience, evolution, and culinary innovation rooted in the vibrant border town of Tijuana.