The 2024 Fiestas Patrias celebration in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park was filled with festive music, vibrant dancing, and the delicious taste of traditional Mexican cuisine, culminating in a flavorful showdown—the first annual “Guac Off” competition! Organized by the Old Town San Diego Chamber of Commerce and the Boosters of Old Town, this year’s contest brought together five local culinary giants: Cafe Coyote, Casa de Freds, Casa Guadalajara, Barra Barra Saloon, and Casa de Reyes.
Guests were invited to partake in the competition by purchasing flights of guacamole and sampling each restaurant’s unique recipe. The tasting was conducted blind, allowing attendees to vote purely on taste without knowing which restaurant prepared each guacamole. After much excitement and anticipation, Casa Guadalajara emerged victorious, claiming the coveted title of “Best Guacamole in Old Town” for the next year!
This fun and delicious event was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of Old Town’s rich heritage and culinary diversity. Proceeds from the contest will support ongoing preservation efforts in the historic park and the upcoming Dia de Los Muertos celebration, ensuring that the cultural vibrancy of Old Town San Diego continues to thrive.
Congratulations to Casa Guadalajara for earning the ultimate bragging rights and to all the participants for making this year’s “Guac Off” a memorable and mouthwatering success!
