By Jennifer Kramer
Kokopelli tacos has been a locals’ favorite in Tijuana for years. In true bootstrapping fashion, they started with humble beginnings as a street taco cart in 2012. Their gourmet tacos were a hit and they soon opened up a small permanent location—a place where hip Tijuanenses would go to nosh on gourmet tacos and sip on local craft beers. They were known for their inventive and sophisticated tacos such as the popular “Kraken” featuring grilled octopus in a savory pesto marinade.
At the end of 2016, it was time for another upgrade. This time they left behind the Kokopelli name and closed up shop, to relocate and rebrand just around the corner as Tras/Horizonte (meaning behind the horizon). For those familiar with the old Kokopelli, some of the elements are still there—the colorful street style art, bohemian vibe, and the gourmet tacos. But the small intimate space has been replaced by a large warehouse and the simple menu has expanded to a full range of offerings.
The old tacos are still being offered, and are supplemented by new dishes like burgers, and extended ceviche and seafood dishes. The Tiradito de Atún and Crossfit Aguachile are both worth a try, as is the Hamburguesa de Costilla. In addition to new food, the menu boasts a new mixology cocktail selection, such as the mezcal-based “El Rey” and “El Chapulín Colorado” (featuring grasshopper salt).
The large warehouse space is decked out with stained concrete floors, colorful paintings on the walls. Succulents planted in blue enamel pots perch on rustic wood planks hanging from ropes from the ceiling. There’s a nice-sized bar area, adjacent to the large dining area. A small outdoor patio is nice to enjoy warmer days, or there’s air conditioning inside for when it gets hot.
Tras/Horizonte
011-52-664-674-4906
Tues.-Thur.: 1pm-10pm
Fri.-Sat.: 1pm-11pm
Closed Monday
Rio Colorado 9680
GPS: 32.522163, -117.020987
MAP
Free parking on site
I loved Kokopelli Tacos and we would stop anytime we were in TJ around lunch time – just amazing how good those tacos are. We’ve been to the new place too and it is still delicious but their bartender really wowed us. Super creative -which is a perfect match for the chefs here.