One of my favorite local Mexican restaurants is Baja Cantina, located in rustic Carmel Valley. Decorated with car racing memorabilia (and designed to look like an old gas station), this funky spot instantly transports you to another time and place. In addition to its fun and lively atmosphere, they serve up hearty, tasty dishes such as flaming steak fajitas, papaya chicken salads, and coconut prawns. For only a short drive to the valley, this place is sure to make anyone think they’ve gone south of the border, and beyond!