Animalón branches out with third season in Baja wine country

Today marks the reopening of beloved Animalón, a seasonal, fine-dining restaurant nestled under a 200-year-old oak tree. The culinary establishment — and tree — are rooted in Baja’s wine country, Valle de Guadalupe.

Founded by celebrity chef Javier Plascencia, the seasonal restaurant launched three years ago on his property in Mexico. The property also houses his open-grill restaurant concept Finca Altonzano, among other projects.

The ever-changing, monthly tasting menu that Animalón is known for will still be available during its third season, and a sneak peek of the new offerings can be found on chef Plascecia’s Instagram page.

Chef Oscar Torres, who specializes in globally influenced cuisine, joined the team last year as the executive chef. He has returned for 2019 with a fresh take.

“Chef Oscar has come back with new ideas for our tasting menu that will make every visit a new experience to remember,” chef Plascencia said in a press release, adding that he is excited to share another season of the dining series with customers.

Also new this year is The Lounge, an outdoor seating area that chef Plascenia predicted “will become a destination of its own.” The newly-designed al fresco space will feature fire pits, hand-crafted cocktails and music.

Animalón is open starting at 5 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Reserve a table through the website or OpenTable.

Finca Altozano, Carretera Tecate - Ensenada Km 83, Valle de Guadalupe, Baja California, animalonbaja.com.