Book excerpt: A joyful exploration of the cuisine of Baja California--hailed as Mexico's Napa Valley--with 60 recipes celebrating the laidback lifestyle found right across the border. Less than an hour's drive from San Diego, Baja California is an up-and-coming destination for tourists looking to experience the best of what Mexico has to offer. From Baja wine country to incredible seafood along the coast, Baja cuisine showcases grilled meats, freshly caught fish, and produce straight from the garden, all mingled with the salt spray of the Pacific Ocean. Inspired by the incredible local landscape and his food from the award-winning restaurant Fauna, star chef David Castro Hussong conducts a dreamy exploration of Baja cuisine featuring 60 recipes ranging from street food such as Grilled Halibut Tacos and Chicharrones to more refined dishes such as Grilled Steak in Salsa Negra and Tomatillo-Avocado Salsa. Each chapter features gorgeous photographs of the region and profiles of top food purveyors are scattered throughout, bringing the spirit of Baja into your kitchen, no matter where you live.