Recently, I found myself in Tijuana, Mexico, for some much-needed dental work. With a Zoom call on the horizon and the need for a reliable Wi-Fi signal, I turned to my trusty friend: Google. I searched “Coffee near me”, and up popped a promising result just a short walk away—Container Coffee Roaster.

As soon as I arrived, I knew this place was more than just your average café. The motorcycle-chic ambiance, a rugged blend of industrial design and minimalist warmth, made me feel like I had just stepped into a Baja biker's dream lounge. But before I could fully appreciate the decor, I was hit with a sign that stopped me in my tracks: CHILAQUILES. The Mexican breakfast of champions. My Zoom call could wait a few minutes.

But First... What Are Chilaquiles?

If you haven’t had chilaquiles, chances are—you haven’t really been to Mexico. And if you have been to Mexico and skipped the chilaquiles? I’m sorry, your trip might not count.

According to Google, chilaquiles are “corn tortilla pieces that are fried, cooked in salsa, and sprinkled with cheese.” And while that’s technically true, I can’t help but feel like Google’s never actually tasted them. The sauce isn’t just salsa. It’s more like a creamy enchilada-style bath—either tomato-based roja or tomatillo-based verde—that hugs every chip in tangy, flavorful goodness.


What Makes a Good Plate of Chilaquiles?

My gold standard includes:
• Solid chips that hold their structure and crunch until the final bite.
• Sliced or pickled red onions for that tangy contrast.
• Crumbly ranchero cheese, finished with a healthy drizzle of crema.
• And for protein? I’m a fan of chicken or steak—and a fried egg on top. Always.


The Chilaquiles at Container Coffee Roaster

So, back to Tijuana. I walk into Container Coffee Roaster and place my order for the chilaquiles with steak and a fried egg. While I fire up my Zoom, my plate arrives—and wow. The chips are firm, yet tender, slathered in that rich, creamy roja sauce that clings to each piece without turning them to mush. The edges were crisp, just how I like them, and the flavor brought that subtle kick you’d expect from roasted jalapeños.

The beans on the side were mild, grounding the spice of the sauce and jalapeños with their creamy texture. Every bite struck the balance of savory, spicy, and smooth—my trifecta for a perfect chilaquiles experience.

As you may know, I can’t taste or smell—I lost both senses in April 2021. My reviews focus on texture, contrast between savory and sweet, and ambiance. Based on that, this dish was a knockout.


Enter...Lua Jagger

But this story isn’t just about the food. After I wrapped up my call, I was approached by a guy who looked like the embodiment of the restaurant’s brand. His name? Lua Jagger. He wasn’t the owner, but he easily could’ve been. He carried the vibe of someone who lives what he does.

We got to talking, and Lua shared his passion for cooking. What sets him apart? Intentionality. Every dish he makes is crafted with care and purpose. He doesn’t just cook food—he cooks for people. We even dreamed up an idea for a "speakeasy-style" restaurant, where customers would tell Lua what they’re craving and he’d create a dish just for them. Genius, right?

And while I’ve since returned to Container Coffee Roaster multiple times, I’ll admit—I only go when Lua is working. His energy, his love for the craft, and his ability to turn a café meal into a full-on culinary moment is what keeps bringing me back.


Food For Thought

If you find yourself in Tijuana, especially around Avenida Revolución, make a point to stop at Container Coffee Roaster. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to work, a stellar cup of coffee, or the kind of chilaquiles that make you rethink your breakfast standards, this spot delivers.


And when you do go, ask for Lua. He won’t just feed you—he’ll remind you that food, at its best, is about connection, intention, and joy.


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Container Coffee Roaster
Av. Revolución 1348, Zona Centro, 22000 Tijuana, B.C., Mexico
Instagram: @ContainerCoffeeRoaster
https://www.instagram.com/containercoffeeroaster