Hail Caesar salad! Born 100 years ago in Tijuana

Hail Caesar salad! Born 100 years ago in Tijuana

Did you know that the Caesar Salad was invented in Tijuana? And it's celebrating its centennial on July 4th, 2024!

Let's delve into the history of this iconic dish and the fascinating beginnings of the historic Hotel Caesar’s Place.

The Historic Hotel Caesar’s Place opened its doors in December 1930, during a period of significant growth for Tijuana, marked by the construction of various buildings to accommodate the burgeoning tourism demand.

Despite this boom, a visionary Italian named César Cardini decided to establish the hotel, complete with an Italian canteen, restaurant, and courtyard. The restaurant gained fame for its Caesar salad and became a magnet for stars and personalities from around the world who frequented the establishment.

The hotel provided excellent accommodations for the influx of tourists arriving from California and beyond, renowned for its attentive service and top-notch quality, as evidenced by visitors to Hotel Caesar’s Place. César's dream was realized: his establishment became the social, cultural, tourist, and business hub of Tijuana.

The grand inauguration took place on March 14, 1931, featuring a lavish event with a gala dinner and dance. Shortly after, a reception hall was added to host the first International Rotary Club meeting in November 1931, attended by Rotarians from California and Tijuana, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Chula Vista and graced by David J. Reese, President of the 2nd District. 

And did you know that Tijuana also launched the career of an iconic movie star? Rita Hayworth, originally Margarita Carmen Dolores Cansino, was born on October 17, 1918. Her journey in show business began in Tijuana clubs, including performances at the Caesar Hotel. Rita and her father Eduardo, known as The Dancing Cansinos, entertained audiences at Agua Caliente and later on a gambling ship near the Mexican border. Their performances at places like The Foreign Club Cafe de Luxe and Hotel Caliente in the early 1930s made them headliners, with many assuming they were siblings due to their performances and costumes.

During her stint at The Caliente Club, Rita caught the eye of Winfield Sheehan, then Vice-President of Fox Film Corporation. Impressed by her talent, Sheehan offered Rita a contract, marking the beginning of her Hollywood journey.

The Caesar salad, famously created on July 4, 1924, in Tijuana, holds a unique place in culinary history. Contrary to popular belief, it isn't Mexican but rather Italian in origin. Culinary historian Jeffrey Pilcher explains that Caesar Cardini, an Italian immigrant like many others in Mexico, conceived the salad. The original restaurant on Avenida Revolución still serves the authentic Caesar salad that won hearts when hastily put together from pantry staples on a busy July 4th, becoming an instant sensation.

The legacy of the Caesar salad and the glamour of Hotel Caesar’s Place are intertwined with the vibrant history of Tijuana, reflecting its role as a melting pot of cultures and a hub of innovation and entertainment.

CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO ON HOW THE SALAD IS MADE!

 

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