Succulent seafood and sizzling beef – Family recipes are the heart of Rosa’s Mexican Restaurant

I remember my first taste of Mexican food – I was about eight years old, and it was at a San Francisco restaurant called Romero’s – a cozy, informal place that served traditional, but bold, Mexican food. Romero knew us and would emerge from the kitchen – aproned and open-armed – when we arrived. We frequented Romero’s until he retired and the doors were closed. But, I have fond memories of the enticing images of tamales enveloped with soft, heavenly masa and enchiladas dripping with melted cheese.

I feel the same way about Rosa’s Mexican Restaurant in Fallbrook. It’s not flashy or chic – it’s...